FOOD TRUCKS HIT THE CSRA | PAGE 18
verge AUGUSTA & THE CSRA
FREE | JANUARY 18 2011 | VOL 4 ISSUE 22 | YOUR SOURCE FOR COMMUNIT Y DRIVEN NEWS
ART THE ABSTRACTION OF CATHY TILLER
ART AN AUGUSTA WINTER + MUSIC SIBLING STRING + MOUNTAIN HEART SEE SHEN YUN + SHOP HIGH COUNTRY OLIVE OILS + THEATRE STORYLAND
vergelive.com | community driven news | January 18, 2012 3
publisher Matt Plocha editor Lara Plocha events editor Sarah Childers copy editor Andrea Bennett contributors Alison Richter, Alison Ryan, Amy Swann, Anne Lovell Swan, Ben Casella, Christopher Selmek, Dino Lull, Elizabeth Benson, Gabi Hutchison, Holly Birdsong, John Cannon, Jonathan Karow, Karen Farley, Leah Deslandes, Mariah Gardner, Michael Swan, Nora Blithe, Skyler Andrews, Stephen Delaney Hale
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THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER
What is your truth based on? Is your truth in life based on fact or your own opinion? Is it based on life experiences or hearsay? Is it based on first hand experiences or gossip? If your truth is based on fact, it is real, tangible and quantifiable. It has basis and a foundation in what is real. Whether or not you want to, or can, accept that reality determines how you deal with truth. If your truth it is based purely on opinion, then it is open for discussion, depending on whether you are willing to have that discussion or just hold on to your opinion as fact, even when proven otherwise. That is why opinions can be changed or swayed. When it is based on myth or the lack of real information, then it is just that – an opinion. As we edge closer to verge’s fifth year of publishing, March 2008 seems light years away. When we set out to publish our first issue, there was a great truth in the market: Augusta was lacking a consistent proponent or “cheerleader” for the good things that were going on: business growth, volunteer opportunities, good organizations, the thousands of events that impact our community, opportunities to engage with community … the list goes on and on. Verge’s model had to be (and will always be): a voice for our community and a proper steward of it and to it. We wanted to separate ourselves with forward thinking and be supportive, nonpolitical, nondivisive and family friendly. We wanted to support the people, places, events, art and culture of the Augusta market, to give our community a true voice for all the good things going on and be a breath of fresh air. In order to do this, we needed to separate ourselves from the clutter and get to the heart of the matter: the health and well being of our community. We looked at emergent behaviors of the market and determined that collectively there was good. There were a lot of people working hard to make the Augusta area a better place to work, live and play. A key component was missing: a voice.
GENERAL POLICIES: Contents
That voice needed to be true and consistent and one that supported those efforts and got behind them to promote them to the entire community, responsibly. Over the past four-plus years we have survived an ongoing recession, major downturns and cuts in the newspaper publishing industry (which shed 30 percent of its workforce last year alone), a brief merger, technological advances (online and portable) and a partridge in a pear tree. Not only have we survived, verge has grown. Primarily, our growth has been because of you, our reader.
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It appears that you have “had your fill” of negative news and blame-game media and have sought out a “breath of fresh air” in verge (truth). Readership of verge is rock solid (truth) and our online visibility and following are reaching levels that we never dreamed possible (truth). More and more business owners, event organizers and community leaders are turning to verge to promote their business and events. In part, it is because of our dedicated and loyal readers (that’s you)!
the boring part
copyrighted 2011 by verge. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Editorial content of verge is the opinion of each contributing writer and is not necessarily the opinion of verge, its staff or its advertisers.
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vergeadvertisers check out our partners 10 26 10,12 24 14 20 12 6 14 26 34 3 32 34 20 28 20 31,35 2 14 10 8 30 14 12 16 24 26 36
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WHAT’S INSIDE
SMATTERINGS
vergestaff
yeah, we made this
Our print distribution strains the numbers as we attempt to serve each of you responsibly. We look to increase our distribution points across the entire market in the coming months to make it even easier for you to find your copy of verge, pushing our distribution points to more than 225 locations. Imagine that. Verge started in downtown Augusta and, five years later, now reaches, writes about and includes the entire market – with a little help from our friends. Through the pages of verge, you will find more ways to connect, to engage with your community and to explore and seek out the good things our area has to provide. There are more ways to save money (Forkfly is awesome! If you have not seen it, visit forkfly.com.) and more ways to share the good news of Augusta through vergelive.com. There are people in more than 500 cities across the United States and, yes, globally that check in on verge on a regular basis (truth). They see what we are doing, they are exploring our community through our online version and they keep coming back! These are people that have lived here, are relocating here, have family here, have visited here, went to school here, were stationed here, have done research here, the list goes on and on. We are happy that we can provide them with a way to stay connected with Augusta (truth). The truth is that you support our newspaper by reading it and by supporting the advertisers on our pages. For that we are humbly grateful and say “Thank you!” As we move forward in 2012, we have more in store. In the meantime, visit vergelive.com, go to the Event Calendar tab and subscribe to the Daily Planner. You will receive an email each week listing all of the events going on for the week. It’s free to use and you can share it with your family and friends, no matter where they live. I just can’t get that Johnny Cash song out of my head: “We’ve been everywhere.” Thanks again, Augusta, for helping to make verge. That’s relevant. That’s community. See you out there getting connected to community. Matt
ON THE COVER ABSTRACT by CATHY TILLER Read more about Cathy Tiller on page 9.
4 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
you won’t want to miss a page
the main feature
9 The Abstraction of Cathy Tiller 11 An Education for the Taste Buds 13 Introducing Children to the Theatre
New partner of Gallery on the Row creates art that touches lives
Aiken’s High Country Olive Oil offers a new take on a tasting bar
Storyland Theatre presents The Princess and The Pea
17 The Beauty of Augusta in Winter 18 The Food Truck Revolution
Photographer Gabi Hutchison captures a Southern winter
Mobile gourmet restaurants are coming to Augusta
22 Homegrown Supergroup: Sibling String
In the studio and on the stage, this quintet has that magic sound
heard around town 5 The Merger of Two Universities 5 Elduets Treasures of the World Closes 5 The Jimmie Dyess Symposium
music | theatre | art | film 15 23 25 27 27 29 30 31 33
Music: Mountain Heart Theatre: Shen Yun Good Cause: Dog Gone Cold 5K Art: A Tale of Two Autumns Music: 3 Pill Morning Film: The Film Reel Music: Sound Bites Music: Adam Sams Good Cause: Girls on the Run
regular stuff 05 07 07 21 25 28 31 32 33 33
Heard Around Town Buzz on Biz The Green Life Chow Bella + Food Bites The Daily Planner Between the Covers Nightlife Ask Dr. Karp The New York Times Crossword Life Face First
vergequotes
here’s what inspires us
“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, is not an act, but a habit.” — ARISTOTLE
“For the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself:
‘If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?’ And whenever the answer has been ‘No’ for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.” — STEVE JOBS
heard [ library annual meeting open to all ]
around town
what’s happening in augusta and aiken
The Friends of the Augusta Library will hold its annual meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 23 at the Headquarters Library. Brad Cunningham, an active member of the Augusta community who has helped restore a house on Greene Street and plays organ at Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church, will speak on the topic of “Who lived at Appleby before the book?” explaining the historic nature of the Annie De Prairie Appleby branch library on Walton Way. “Brad has been researching the Coleman Leigh Warren Cemetery, where one of the original owners of the property is buried,” said Tricia Hughes, a library advocate. “In the 1950s the property was given by Scott Appleby to the library system, and it is still used to house more than 35,000 books and provide a retreat for the community of Summerville.” At the meeting, Friends of the Library will also elect officers and appeal for new members. “There have been a lot of budget cuts in the library lately, and there are specific materials that are not funded by other categories, which is where the Friends of the Library try to pick
appleby library today
up the slack,” said Hughes. “We gather money mostly through book sales at our shop near the entrance of the Headquarters Library, which is staffed by volunteers, and also through memberships. Also, we will be resuming our Third Saturday book sale this month in the basement of the Appleby Library.” Membership in Friends of the Library costs $20 and comes with discounts and deals from the Augusta Canal, French Market Grille, Sundrees Urban Market, The Book Tavern and the Woodrow Wilson House. For more information about becoming a member, contact the Friends shop at 706.469.3356.
[ elduets closes storefront ]
Elduets Treasures of the World, the eclectic gift store at 1127 Broad St. that offers treasures from more than 60 countries around the world, will be closing its storefront by the end of January for the owners to focus on the store’s online presence.
The honorees confer: former U.S. Rep. Douglas Barnard Jr. (left and retired U.S. Army Col. Bruce Crandall (right).
[ men honored for courage ]
“Our hope is that in the future there will be no Medal of Honor winners because there will be no wars,” said Crandall during his acceptance speech. “There’s not a single one of us who would want to be honored if we could have stopped the war from happening. The greatest honor a man can have is to lead good men into combat, and it is a great responsibility. You all honor me by being here, and you honor me by allowing me to serve my community, the state, and the nation.” Crandall’s and Barnard’s names were added to a plaque in front of the Jimmie Dyess Award, which was unveiled at this ceremony and is still on display at the Augusta Museum of History.
Georgia Health Sciences University President Ricardo Azizz and Augusta State University President William Bloodworth Jr. held a series of town hall meetings on Jan. 12 to discuss the merger of the two universities decided on by the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents on Jan. 10. Both presidents took questions from the audience, which consisted mostly of faculty and students. According to Azizz, who will preside over the as-yet-to-be-named new institution, this move will allow both campuses to increase their services to all students for an overall better learning experience. “This is not about creating an overgrown Health Sciences campus,” he said. “This is a unique opportunity for the state to create a whole new university and, at the end of the day, there will not be an ‘us’ and a ‘them’, but there will be one integrated ‘we’ and we will grow together.”
“We have lots of regulars who have been very understanding about this transition,” said Robert. “We’ve been trying for a little over two years to get really established online, and we’ve realized that we can’t do that while we’re still managing the store.”
Though the Board of Regents decision also combines six other public colleges across Georgia, Azizz claims the merger of GHSU and ASU is the only one designed not for financial reasons, but in order to create a whole new university. “This is going to be a merger of two great institutions that do not compete, but the whole will be greater than the sum of the parts,” said Azizz. “The goal here is to increase our offerings to students, which might mean more faculty, more classes and perhaps more programs.”
The symposium was created to recognize the heroism of Lt. Col. Jimmie Dyess, a native Augustan who received the Medal of Honor, Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service during World War II, and to identify those who have shown similar valor or made civic contributions beyond the call of duty.
Crandall is a Medal of Honor recipient along with his wingman, Ed Dreeman, whose actions are depicted in the movie We Were Soldiers. During his two tours in Vietnam, he flew lead ship on more than 900 combat missions.
[ two universities merge ]
Owners Robert and Karen Steudle say that this is far from a going-out-of-business sale. They believe that by moving Elduets onto the Internet they will enchance the shopping experience for many loyal customers.
Former U.S. Rep, Doug Barnard Jr. and retired U.S. Army Col. Bruce Crandall were honored at the second Jimmie Dyess Symposium on Jan. 12.
Barnard graduated from Augusta College, now Augusta State University, in 1943 and served in World War II from 1943 to 1945. His accomplishments while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1977 to 1993 include initiating the Russell Dam and Lake Project, arranging for the $87 million construction of the VA Hospital on Wrightsboro Road, and extending the Riverwalk. Since retiring from the Senate, Barnard has remained dedicated to his community and has played a leadership role in both the Community Foundation of the CSRA and the Wounded Warrior Project.
GHSU President Ricardo Azziz (on stage) and ASU President william bloodworth (seated) answer a question from an asu student about the merger plans.
“ASU and GHSU have always served different types of students,” said Bloodworth. “GHSU is hard to get into and easy to get out of, while ASU is easy to get into and hard to get out of. We take some pride in the fact that we now accept students with a range of abilities.”
In order to temporarily thin their inventory for the transition, Elduets began offering 50 to 70 percent off everything in the store on Jan. 15, the second phase of the storewide sale that began shortly before Christmas. “This has been our best Christmas yet, which makes it a little sad that we’re pulling out of downtown,” he said. “What we want to do is take what we’ve learned here over the past seven years and use technology to give people an online experience that is as close to possible to what they get by shopping in here.” The Steudles have not set an exact date for closing the storefront, but are excited about making this transition and hope to continue giving their customers a good shopping experience. AGC Teacher’s Supply, 3336 Wrightsboro Road, will carry many of Elduets’ classical and educational toys and will serve as a free pickup location for merchandise ordered on the website. For more information, call 706.828.4446 or visit elduets.com.
Many students were concerned about a raise in tuition, which Azizz said is set by the Board of Regents. Others wondered what programs or staff positions would be cut, how nontraditional students would be treated following the merger and a range of other concerns to which neither president had immediate answers. Azizz said that an implementation team will soon be formed and it will take 12 to 18 months to complete the complicated process of the merger, but seemed optimistic that the united university would be a job-creator and a benefit for Augusta, the state and the nation. “I’m going to be doing a lot of learning over the next month,” said Azizz. “I intend to spend as much time as I can on this campus (ASU) over the next 12 months in order to talk to each and every one of you and get your ideas.”
[ got news? we want to hear it ]
Verge is a community driven newspaper – so we want to hear from you. Send your good news, upcoming events, promotions or story ideas to editor@vergelive.com for publication consideration. Include contact information for any questions. Around Town is written by CHRISTOPHER SELMEK
vergelive.com | community driven news | January 18, 2012 5
6 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
the buzz on
biz
what’s moving and shaking in local business
BRIAN GAY’S DRIVE TO SUCCESS
PGA golfer Brian Gay from Louisville, Ga., has won more than $15 million in his career and is looking for ways to invest his money back into the CSRA. In December, he became a minority shareholder in the FlexPay Auto Sales business on Washington Road in Evans.
living the
green life practical ways to be more eco-concious
You Breathe What You Eat
Our consumption of food harms the environment in a variety of ways. The production, processing, transportation and packaging of our food all contribute to the environmental damage.
Flexpay celebrated its one year anniversary in the former Carefree Pools and Spa building with the sale of its 200th car. The “Buy Here Pay Here” lot offers cars and trucks of all makes and models from an average price range of $4,000 to $7,000. The company employs two mechanics to service the vehicles before they go on the sales lot. Most of the vehicles are bought at auction or from wholesalers. Gay’s infusion of cash will allow Flexpay to buy and sell more vehicles in 2012 – the goal is to go from 200 sold per year to 400 or 500.
UHAUL MOVES IN WITH ANOTHER DISTRIBUTOR Paul Patel, the owner of Time Saver Food Store at 2061 Central Ave., recently added U-Haul truck and trailer rentals to the convenience store/gas station business. Time Saver Food Store now offers its customers a variety of moving equipment and supplies designed specifically for moving household furnishings, including moving vans, open trailers, closed trailers, furniture pads, appliance dollies, furniture dollies, tow dollies and auto transports. The company will also offer items to protect its customers’ belongings and make moving easier, such as heavy-duty boxes, which are made of up to 90 percent recycled content and available in a variety of sizes. “U-Haul is proud to be partnering with a quality independent business such as Time Saver Food Store,” said Tony Fretwell, the president of U-Haul Company of Southern Georgia. “Paul is a great example of the type of successful business relationship U-Haul has established in order to build and maintain a strong network of more than 15,000 independent dealers across North America.”
IT’S ALL MOVING TO THE WEB You better hurry to Elduets Treasures of the World before it permanently moves its unique home accessories to www.elduets.com.
Owners Karen and Robert Steudle have been on the 1100 block of Broad Street for years and are holding a “moving” sale this month with up to 70 percent off what is in store. They offer up their gifts from more than 60 countries and, according to their website, provide “mostly handmade works of art and ethnic handicrafts made from a variety of metals, crystal, stone, gems, paper, glass, wood, porcelain, silk, clay, cork, bone, shell, straw, cloth, resin and other exotic materials.” The eclectic mixture of merchandise includes tea sets, swords, toys, ethnic nativities and incense.
GET A “MOOVE” ON WITH CHAMBER DEAL The North Augusta Chamber of
Commerce is always looking for ways to leverage extra value for its 400 or so business members. Its latest effort targets audiences at the 2012 Augusta Futurity, offering sponsor packages that provide banner support inside the James Brown arena, tickets to events, and a booth to hobnob with many “moo-vers” and shakers at the weeklong event, Jan. 22 to 28. Open to Chamber members only, slots are filling up fast on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information, call Chamber President Brian Tucker at 803.279.2323.
ODDS ‘N’ ENDS: JANUARY HAPPENINGS
• DJ and Company celebrate the 20th anniversary of the salon and spa on Davis Road. • Bullchicks Restaurant is finally expected to open after a delay inside of the former Wife Saver on Highland Avenue. • Yotopia Frozen Yogurt recently turned on its machines in Evans in the plaza at 4324 Washington Road with the recently opened 5 Guys Burgers and Fries. • Levitate Fitness will open in the former Chuck Campbell Wallpaper and Blinds store in Fairway Square in West Augusta.
Neil Gordon owns Buzz on Biz LLC, a company dedicated to highlighting business growth through newspaper, television, radio, and Web content. Story idea? Email neil.gordon@buzzon.biz
Clearing land for agriculture destroys natural habitats, while the farmland it creates offers little in the way of habitats and resources for wild plants and animals. Using chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides on crops to maximize yields can expose workers to toxic substances, contaminates the soil and pollutes our air and water. The factories that process and package our food generate large volumes of waste water from cleaning and canning operations. These factories also create large amounts of solid waste by discarding food that doesn’t meet their standards. Finally, the vehicles that transport our food from the farm to the processing plant and ultimately the supermarket burn fossil fuels, which generate greenhouse gases. We all need to eat, so what can we do? We can educate ourselves and make better food choices to reduce the harmful effects of our diet. One way we can reduce our impact is by eating more locally grown products. According to a study by Iowa State University, locally grown produce is transported an average distance of 56 miles before it reaches the consumer, while conventional produce travels an average of 1,494 miles to reach the same consumer – nearly 27 times farther. Food grown outside the U.S. (and eaten “out of season” here) is transported even greater distances. Clearly, eating locally grown food saves a lot of gas and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the money we spend on locally grown products stays in the Central Savannah River Area, which supports our communities and helps create jobs. Eating organic products is another way we can reduce the impact of our food. Organic farming avoids the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides, which reduces pollution and keeps toxic substances out of the food we eat. It also prohibits the use of antibiotics in animal feed, which are routinely used in conventional farming and are known to create dangerous antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Also, most organic farms rotate their crops; planting different types of plants throughout the year, which helps preserve the natural fertility of the soil. Finally, look for certified fair trade products when buying food items that are grown in other parts of the world. Fair trade is a program designed to ensure that farmers in developing countries receive a livable wage while using environmentally friendly farming techniques. Under fair trade practices, the “middleman” is left out between farmers and distributors, giving a farmer a greater profit margin that enables him to make living wages rather than the subsistence wages often paid to workers employed by non-fair trade farms. Fair trade also requires healthy working environments for employees and prohibits the use of children for cheap labor. By buying certified fair trade products, you can be assured that your food was produced using sustainable farming techniques while you help ensure that the farmers who grew your food were treated humanely.
Anne Lovell is an environmental consultant who lives in Aiken with her husband and three dogs. Her column, Living Green, focuses on practical ways to be more environmentally conscious.
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8 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
cathy tiller sees
life through abstraction
HER PASSION IS CREATING ART THAT TOUCHES LIVES
“As long as I can remember, I have loved creating art,” local artist Cathy Tiller says. “It has almost become a daily necessity.” Tiller, an Augusta native who has spent her teen years and most of her adult life working at her family’s custom cabinet manufacturing business, says her passion is creating art that touches lives. “I love to stand back and watch other people’s reactions to my pieces,” she says. “The most rewarding experience for me is when a person buys a piece and they explain to me what it represents to them, or how it makes them feel. I share with them what I was thinking and doing when the piece evolved. Words cannot express the emotions that come out.” Tiller says her artistic roots can be traced back to her family’s cabinet shop where she had opportunities to experiment with interior design and decorating. “Designing kitchens and baths have allowed me to express my creative self,” she says. “It also brought out the artistic side in me.” She attended design and decorating classes, and says her love of color and textures helped in her relationships with business clients. It was only after her responsibilities shifted to an administrative role that Tiller was ready to her pursue her dream of being an artist. “Painting gives me the opportunity to express other sides of me,” she says. “My day job is very detailed and regimented. Abstract painting allows me to exhibit a playful side. I love having the freedom to color outside the lines on purpose.” In 2008, after years of family and friends telling her that she should sell her paintings, Tiller opened a backyard studio. Her son, Ryan, was the first to comment on the new enterprise. “When my son walked in for the first time he told me that it looked like I had my own Michael’s store,” she laughs. Though she only took a few art classes as a child, her ability to create art that expresses emotion and speaks to others is evident in her work. Tiller says she enjoys the connections she makes with the people who buy her art as much as she loves creating the pieces. As a professional artist, Tiller says she also feels it is important to give back to others. “I have two sisters, a daughter and friends that have been affected by breast cancer, so breast cancer awareness is very important to me,” she says. “My Faces of Hope project is something that has been a dream of mine for quite some time. It is still in its infancy stage: I have completed two face paintings and one pink ribbon painting. For every piece in the collection that is sold, a donation will be made towards funding breast cancer research.” Another project Tiller is involved with is the Band Art Project, the brainchild of Augusta State University student Stephanie Meghean Forbes, who combined her love of painting and music as a senior project in high school. The show is now an annual community event. “The Band Art Project is an event that I participated in, in 2011 and plan to again in February of 2012,” Tiller says. “Each artist completes an entire 40-by-30 painting in the length of one
“... my inspiration is life itself. I have all these things swimming around my head and cannot wait to bring them to life.” — CATHY TILLER
song, about four to seven minutes. The paintings were donated to the Walton Rehabilitation Center and auctioned off at their Undercover Artist show. The show helps fund Camp to be Independent, a camp for patients with traumatic brain injuries.” Tiller’s art can been seen at many art events in the CSRA. She is a member of the Artist Guild of Columbia County and the Greater Augusta Arts Council. In December, she became a partner at Gallery on the Row, located at 1016 Broad Street. “I am so thankful for the opportunity to become a part of the gallery,” she says. “I am really fortunate to be selected at this stage of my work.” When Tiller is not busy with the family business, she says she gets most of her inspiration for her art from everyday life.
“I guess you could say that my inspiration is life itself,” she explains. “It could be somewhere I have been, someone I met, my children, animal life, nature, conflict or content. I have all these things swimming around my head and cannot wait to bring them to life.” Abstract art might not be for everyone, but when Tiller brings those things to life on canvas, people are moved. Her work will be on display at the ASU library in February and March. Visitors to Gallery on the Row can see her art during normal business hours: Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact the artist at artsycaleigh@comcast.net or visit her website at caleighart.com/works. article and photo by KAREN E. FARLEY
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10 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
high country invites you to
taste the difference
craig dougherty and bob thrift bring an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting bar to downtown aiken
It is a fresh-smelling, almost exotic, world of the finest extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar and Belgian chocolate. And what a tasty world to work in. After a systematic search of the Southeast, Bob Thrift and Craig Dougherty, business partners from Charlotte, N.C., chose Aiken’s historic downtown Holly Building to open High Country Olive Oil. High Country is a shop, but it is also an experience. Customers are urged to try different oils and vinegars – this one from Spain, this one from Argentina – until they find one to take home. Shoppers pull a small tap to fill a small paper cup and then dip bread pieces to experience the exotic spices and flavors. One of the owners is usually on hand to tour customers through their world, describing the different combinations of flavors. Tall, soft-spoken Dougherty, who was manning the store in late December (the partners alternate weeks in Aiken and Charlotte), explained that he and Thrift started looking for a business opportunity in 2009.
“Everybody likes to eat and our products enhance that experience.” — CRAIG DOUGHERTY
They settled on the sophisticated olive oil business and traveled to California to visit Veronica Foods, an international supplier of the finest oils. “Their great-grandfather started the business in 1924. In that time they have developed olive oil sources from all over the world,” he said, surrounded by nearly 50 metal drums, called fusti, of olive oils and balsamic vinegars. “Now we had a business and a supplier. Next we needed a location,” Dougherty said. High Country Olive Oil is not a franchise of Veronica Foods, though it is part of the supplier’s business model for the more than 200 shops it supplies that stores not be placed within a competitive distance of each other. “A business acquaintance suggested Aiken,” Dougherty said. “We came down in late January 2011, and our first thoughts were, ‘Wow, this is a neat town.’ The dynamic of the downtown was great.” During their investigation they met Paula Moore and Joy Albrecht, the owners of The Holley Building on Aiken’s boutique avenue, Laurens Street. The Holley Building houses four specialty shops fronted by the Aiken County Visitors’ Center, a foot-traffic draw to the front door. Along with olive oil and fine aged balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy, the store also carries Belgian chocolates from La Bonbonniere in Martinez. Owner Bebette Smith is a chocolatier from Belgium who immigrated in 1974. All three thought fine chocolate would be a good fit with fine olive oils and vinegars. “Bebette had regular Aiken customers,” said Dougherty. “She has been very supportive and was a big help to us in getting started because she already knew a lot of people in the area.”
A TOUR IN TASTE C0-OWNER CRAIG DOUGHERTY INTRODUCES “We operate in the style of a European-style tasting bar. We encourage people to come in and try the flavors and discover what they like. We like to tell people, ‘Come taste what’s good for you.’ ” Olive oil and balsamic both have good nutracutical (foods that provide both health and medical benefits) qualities, he explained. Extra virgin olive oil is 93 percent mono-unsaturated, has high amounts of oleic acid, which lowers LDL cholesterol and raise HDL, artery clearing omega-3 fatty acids and healthy antioxidants. You can get an education in nutrition walking through, and sampling from, the rows of fusti with Dougherty and Thrift.
They also got a lot of support from other shops and businesses in downtown Aiken.
Dougherty said he is often asked where the best olive oil is made, but there really is not a specific answer to that question.
“Business has been very good,” since opening in the summer, said Dougherty. “We have been well-received by residents and businesses.
“As you will find touring our shop, different areas and different olives produce oils which appeal to different people. But, the critical attribute of all oils is freshness,” he said. “In our shop,
Kara Hauerwas AND Lee Linder TO EXOTIC BALSAMICS
you’ll find fresh fruit varietal extra virgin olive oils from Spain, Italy, France, Tunisia, Greece, Australia, Chile, Argentina and California. Oil production is based on harvest, hemisphere, climate and weather. Our producers mill the product within an hour of the harvest.” Dougherty suggests people come for a tour of the world of olive oils to be entertained and educated. “Everybody likes to eat and our products enhance that experience,” he said. “Whether it’s olive oil, balsamic or chocolate, you can introduce fun things to people. And, our products are affordable to every demographic. Most of our products sell for $10 to $17. We have something for everybody. “We enjoy touring people around and introducing them to our products. If you’ve never been in here before it may be a strange sight at first. ‘What are all these metal containers?’ But we fun getting people to try things and experiencing new things.” by STEPHEN DELANEY HALE photo ALISON RYAN
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12 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
storyland theatre puts
magic into theatre
with original scripts and scores,
the troupe introduces children to the world of theatrical production
Barbara Feldman has played a bossy queen, a mean stepmother, an evil fairy and a troll. But in each of her roles, she has a good message and the children always learn something. Feldman is the executive director of Storyland Theatre. In its 24th season, the troupe will perform The Princess and The Pea from Jan. 24 to 27 at the Imperial Theatre, with a public matinee on Jan. 28. Storyland Theatre is nonprofit theatre for children. Though its main purpose is to present live quality theatrical productions performed by adults, Feldman says the 24-year-old organization is dedicated to bringing the magic of theatre to the many children who are often unable to attend an Arts event (more than 60 percent of their tickets are discounted for students). “We know that many students who attend our performances would never see a live play if they did not attend with their schools,” Feldman says. “We believe that introducing Storyland Theatre performances to a child will teach a love of theatre, and will encourage attendance at all kinds of Arts events as an adult.” Storyland produces locally written plays and musicals based on fairytale themes that incorporate imaginative sets, costumes, lighting and special effects to expose children to the finest theatre in the Central Savannah River Area. “I think it is really important that the public knows that we put on a full-scale production, much like a Broadway show,” she says, “and all of our plays and musicals are original.” Feldman is one of the founding members of the organization and her passion for children’s theatre is one of the organization’s many strengths. Though she wears many hats in her role of executive director, she attributes the success of Storyland to the many people who work so hard to bring smiles to both children and adults. Cofounders Henry Thomas, Rick Davis, and Georgia Cunningham are also a vital part of the organization. “Rick writes 90 percent of our plays and Georgia is our choreographer,” Feldman says. “Henry has so much theatre knowledge he brings to the group.” But the original board members are not the only ones who make it possible to bring entertainment and magic to the community. Adults who attended a Storyland production as a child are now involved with the theatre company. Some are bringing their children to the plays. Feldman works with many educators to organize the field trips to the performances and says she enjoys the friendships she forms with the teachers and principals.
One of those educators is Nancy Cisick, a retired principal of Southside Elementary School. “When Nancy told me she was retiring, I thought, ‘Oh, no, she is such a great person to work with,’” Feldman says. “But she came to me said she told her friends that when she retired she was going to work with Storyland Theatre and I immediately put her on stage. She is now our production manager and recently played a stepsister in Cinderella.” Storyland has performed for almost half a million students since its inception. The Imperial Theater has been its home for more than seven years. And in that time, more than 5,000 active duty soldiers and their families have attended performances. In 2010, Feldman and other board members were honored by Brig. Gen. Jeff Foley, the former commanding general of the U.S. Army Signal Center and Fort Gordon, for their support of U.S. soldiers and their families. Soldiers, teachers and students are not the only ones who enjoy Storyland productions. The actors and crew say they also look forward to every performance.
that he should marry Nutmeg and not the princess his mother has picked out. Princess Nutmeg is not the traditional princess – she is kind of a tomboy, and enjoys going off by herself and exploring the outdoors.” The cast includes Tiffany Bridges as Hester the Jester, Beth Blalock as Princess Nutmeg, Paul Jones as Prince Handsome, Austin Rhodes as King Handsome and Feldman as Queen Bessie (or, as Hester the Jester calls her, Queen Bossy). The script and lyrics are written by Rick Davis, the assistant department chairman of communications and professional writing at Augusta State University, the music is composed and directed by guest director Susan Burgess (Jim Nord is Storyland’s musical director), the choreographer is Georgia Cunningham, set design is by graphic artist Steve Krecskay, and the costumes are by Vintage Ooolee. Nancy Cisick is the production manager and Feldman is directing the show. Their final production for the season is Jack and the Beanstalk, which runs March 27 through 31. Storyland Theatre is about the magic of theater. But the magic that goes on during every production is not just seen and heard on stage. It fills every child with wonder and imagination as they leave the theater and begin to build dreams of their own. by KAREN E. FARLEY photos HOLLY BIRDSONG
“When you watch the faces on the children when we perform, it is so rewarding,” Feldman smiles. “The actors all talk about their reactions to the characters. They are so excited that the children get involved. Everyone who is a part of Storyland wants to do something good for children.” Before each show, someone in the troupe makes a theatre etiquette speech to the children, explaining theatre manners and preparing them for some character differences in the shows. “We like the children to be surprised when they come to a show, but after having read the story, it’s a good thing to go back to school and talk about the similarities and differences in our version versus the story they read or the video they saw,” she says. The upcoming production of The Princess and The Pea is the basic fairy tale, but with a twist. “Rick took the basic story and added a character, Hester the Jester,” Feldman explains. “Hester is the prince’s best friend, and she helps him win Princess Nutmeg and convince Queen Bessie
see the show
WHAT Storyland Theatre’s The Princess and The Pea WHERE The Imperial Theatre | 745 Broad St. PUBLIC MATINEE Saturday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. (box office opens at 2:15 p.m., no reservations required) TICKETS $5; active military and families free (with ID) MORE |706.736.3455 or storylandtheatre.org
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14 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
mountain heart pushes the
boundaries of bluegrass return to southern soul and song at the imperial comes with a new lead singer and new sounds
Individually and collectively, the members of Mountain Heart have amassed countless awards and nominations. They have shared stages and studios with a variety of upperechelon country, bluegrass and rock artists, from touring with guitar legend Tony Rice to recording with David Lee Roth on Strumming With The Devil, a country/bluegrass Van Halen tribute album. Mountain Heart is Barry Abernathy – banjo, vocals, Jim Van Cleve – fiddle, vocals, Jason Moore – upright bass, vocals, Josh Shilling – guitar, lead vocals, Aaron Ramsey – mandolin, vocals, and Seth Taylor – guitar. Their unique approach to acoustic music, which incorporates elements of multiple genres, has earned them a loyal audience and the respect of their industry peers. A year ago, they released their seventh album, That Just Happened, on their own imprint label. In addition to his work with Mountain Heart, Jim Van Cleve is on the A-list of Nashville session players and is also in demand as a producer. His solo album, No Apologies, earned him a nomination as IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year. He was en route to a recording session when he spoke to verge about the magic of Mountain Heart.
Verge: Twelve years – how do you make it last? VAN CLEVE: It actually seems incredible when I hear that and think about what that really means, because it doesn’t seem like 12 years; it seems like maybe five on some days. Right now I’m not road weary yet, so I can say that. It might feel like 20 in three or four days! We’ve always tried to grow and take some chances. You win some and lose some, as far as that’s concerned, with regard to people who will listen, especially when you’re playing within the confines of a certain genre. Some people have real strict lines of what they call this kind of music and that kind of music. We’ve always been a little less concerned with that than whether the music speaks to us and emotionally connects with us. If the answer is yes, we follow that. I think those types of decisions have made this band relevant and exciting for that long. I can honestly say we’re every bit as excited about music as we’ve ever been. And that is a cool thing to be able to say, I think. It’s been neat to shape-shift a little bit and try new things, and I think it’s made us relevant, vibrant and alive.
“Some people have real strict lines of what they call this kind of music and that kind of music. We’ve always been a little less concerned with that than whether the music speaks to us and emotionally connects with us.” — JIM VAN CLEVE
Verge: After so many years, does it become more difficult to challenge each other? VAN CLEVE: I guess in ways it could be, but I would say not as much as you would think. It’s more difficult sometimes for the audience to decide if they’re comfortable with the changes or not. We’ve always kind of pushed the envelope a little bit, but five or six years ago we went through a more noticeable change to a listener. We changed lead singers and went from a traditional acoustic lead singer sound to Josh, who is more of an R&B/funk/blues/rock singer than what you’d call a traditional or contemporary bluegrass singer. He brought new influences to the table and that made it more fun for us as a band, so we’ve tried to channel that and go with it and see where that leads. We’re all creative and we try to meld all the different genres that these musicians bring to the table. I feel fortunate; I look around on that stage and literally some of the best musicians in the
world are up there – maybe with the exception of myself! It’s just a really humbling thing to see guys of that caliber all committed to the sound, and wherever that sound takes us that day is OK. It’s a really neat thing. Everybody is capable of going anywhere musically, and I think that once again it keeps it alive. It’s not too difficult to challenge each other because that’s kind of all we do. Everybody in the band is always stretching and trying to become a better musician and learn new things. What Mountain Heart has become, if it wasn’t always – and I feel like it probably was – but it definitely has become an intersection of six different artists all under one name. The collective outcome is what this band is about. VERGE: Surviving a change of lead vocalists is one of the toughest things a band can undertake, but your fan base came along and stayed with you. VAN CLEVE: We were aware of that before we made the move. It was a tough decision. We were definitely concerned because it was such a drastic change for us to go from the sound we had before to what we’re doing now. We knew it was a stretch, but we felt it was necessary and a good one, and we felt that we were going to be a better band once the dust settled and we were able to get comfortable in our new skin. We felt it would enable us to go places we hadn’t been before, and it did exactly that. I think the passion and the music brought the audience along. I think that they were unsure at times, early on, whether they were going to like it or not, but credit to all those people WHAT Southern Soul and Song: we see time after time – there they were and Mountain Heart with Tony Rice they were great. We’ve seen more growth in WHERE The Imperial Theatre the last five years than we ever saw prior, and probably more growth in the last two years 745 Broad St. than we’d ever seen. I think the band right now WHEN Friday, Jan. 20 | 7:30 p.m. is unmatched in our 12-year history, so that’s a TICKETS Tickets: $13 to $37 good thing, especially in this economy and this music industry. MORE |706.722.8341 or
see the show
by ALISON RICHTER
IMPERIALTHEATRE.COM
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16 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
a photo shouts
a thousand words
everyday LIVING CAUGHT ON FILM
augusta in full winter’s bloom All the complicated details of the attiring and the disattiring are completed! A liquid moon moves gently among the long branches. Thus having prepared their buds against a sure winter the wise trees stand sleeping in the cold. – Winter Trees by WILLIAM CARLOS WILLIAMS [1883-1963] photos by GABI HUTCHISON
vergelive.com | community driven news | January 18, 2012 17
feeding the masses good food on-the-go
mobile restaurant concept comes to Augusta
KITCHEN ON WHEELS Enrique romero displays the brown bag mobile restaurant
In 1886, a cattle herder named Charles Goodnight remodeled an old Army wagon to cook proper meals on long cattle drives. This chuckwagon offered dried beans, cornmeal and other easily preserved foods, but no fresh vegetables or meat -- unless an animal died on the cattle run. Thus, the first food truck was born. In the 1950s, the Army commissioned mobile canteens to serve lunch at several military bases. During the same decade, Mister Softee, Good Humor and other types of ice cream trucks began to spread out across the nation, and their distinctive musical jingles continue to be heard nearly any summer evening. Today’s food trucks are vastly different than Goodnight’s design, selling everything from tacos to seafood. In recent years, with most of the country under economic stress and both blue- and white-collar workers desiring a quick, inexpensive bite to eat during lunch, food trucks have become even more popular. Soon, the CSRA will begin seeing a lot more of them. “The food truck revolution hasn’t quite come to Augusta yet, but that’s what we’re hoping to kick off when we start operating,” said Enrique Romero, who plans to start serving gourmet meals out of The Brown Bag food truck this month. “We’re probably the most visible right now because we’re just starting up, but in the next six months you could have seven new food trucks on the market, and we have no problem being the guinea pigs.”
“The food truck revolution hasn’t quite come to Augusta yet, but that’s what we’re hoping to kick off when we start operating.” — enrique romero, THE BROWN BAG
The Brown Bag is only one of several food vendors hitting the road in 2012, but it is the only one in Augusta without an associated restaurant. The Rooster’s Beak will soon be rolling out their Mobile Kitchen, and Manuel’s Bread Café hopes to present Manuel’s Escargot right before Masters Week. “For a restaurant owner it’s a very good way to expand the business with very little overhead, and without having to build a new restaurant,” said Manuel Verney-Carron. “I think more and more people want to eat very fresh food that is prepared well, and this will allow me to serve more people than might come to my café in a given day.” “It’s fast food but it’s an alternative to traditional burger joints so if people are strapped for time they can grab a bite quickly,” said Phillip Marks, a co-owner of the Rooster’s Beak. “It’s a benefit for
the people who are driving as well as for the people who own the restaurant, because it’s a permanent advertisement that is very visible in the community and bound to attract a lot of attention.” According to Romero, though food trucks have been around for a long time, their recent rise in popularity has much to do with the start of the recession. “In 2008, many fancy restaurants out in California were forced to closed, and a lot of really talented chefs were suddenly looking for work,” he said. “Over the last 12 to 15 months food costs have increased around 32 percent, and most restaurants are either picking up their price or reducing the size of their portions. Given the current market, food trucks are the only options that make good food affordable and accessible to just about anyone.” That philosophy of affordability and accessibility is what led Romero to use his 10 years of restaurant management experience to design a mobile kitchen complete with every tool he might need to use. The Brown Bag food truck includes a freezer, cooler, sandwich prep station, two-well steam table, two 40-pound fryers, a char broiler, flat grill and six-top stove with convection oven. “When the department of health first stepped onto the truck to inspect it, they were totally blown away,” he said. “Augusta hasn’t seen anything like this up till now.” His wife, Carole, raves over his corn crab bisque and crawfish Monica, but Romero says he believes an even bigger draw will be the crab cakes, sweet potato fries, and wide variety of sliders. Their goal is to allow anyone to enjoy a fine meal for $5 to $11. Manuel’s Bread Café is already famous in North Augusta’s Hammond’s Ferry for their French inspired cuisine and
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vegetables grown in the local garden. With Manuel’s Escargot, Verney-Carron says he hopes to be able to introduce a whole new audience to the food so many have already enjoyed. “While I’m sure that there are folks in Aiken or in Evans who would love to be able to be served by Manuel’s, I don’t feel that I need to drive 45 minutes away to reach a new customer base, I only need to drive 10,” he said. “For much of the last 15 years I have wanted to open something on Broad Street, and I’ve been very close a few times but something always happens at the last minute to stop me. With this food truck, I can finally fulfill my dream of opening up to the customers on Broad Street.” “The food truck provides a full commercial kitchen that can provide catering for up to 200 people, and I hope to be doing more events with it as well,” he continued. “We can cater a wedding on a beach or serve lunch in the middle of the forest because the truck is fully functional on its own, with its own electric generator and all the tools necessary to create a great dining experience.”
“It’s fast food but it’s an
alternative to traditional burger joints so if people are
strapped for time they can grab a bite quickly.” — PHILLIP MARKS, ROOSTER’S BEAK
The owners of the Rooster’s Beak say they also hope to do more catering for those who desire a more Southwestern flavor. “If there’s a concert downtown or any kind of special event on Broad Street we can be there, and it’s a lot easier to do catering when you can just move your entire kitchen to wherever it needs to be,” said Marks. “The truck will be a true extension of the restaurant as far as being similar in style and having a Southwestern flavor, but the menu isn’t going to be exactly the same, that way we can offer different things to people who already know what they like at our restaurant.” Each kitchen has different ideas about how to proceed. The Brown Bag hopes to visit 10 different lunch stops per week and provide two regular dinner locations where their customers can come find them. Manuel’s hopes to establish one regular lunch stop, and then spend the evening on Broad Street, likely rotating
“We can cater a wedding on a beach or serve lunch in the middle of the forest because the truck [Manuel’s Escargot] is fully functional on its own.” — MANUEL Verney-Carron, MANUEL’S Bread Cafe
between the Metro Pub and Coffeehouse and The Loft. Marks hasn’t quite established his truck’s rotation yet, but like the other two has plans to serve Georgia Health Sciences University students, faculty and employees. “MCG students are like a captive audience,” said Marks. “Plus, you have all the professors and the people who work there who would love to get a taco on their break.” “Some food trucks have a different route every day of the week, but my idea is to position them in one or two well know locations so that they can serve a regular crowd,” said Verney-Carron. “A lot of MCG doctors are smokers but they aren’t allowed to smoke on campus, so they will have to cross the street and I will be there waiting for them.” “It’s challenging to find a parking spot at MCG, but I hope to spend at least a portion of the week there at lunchtime,” said Romero. “We’d like to start serving the night crews, who don’t always have a lot of food resources.” None of the three expressed concern about competition for customers. It is their shared belief that the more food trucks there are in Augusta, the better they will be able to combine their efforts to petition for parking, and their customers will be happier to be offered the variety. “In Florida we were told about a Food Truck Rally where about 30 trucks circled up inside a mall to do a fundraiser for the police chief ’s son. It was a really neat community event and we’d like to
see things like that happen here,” said Romero. “Just imagine if you saw the Augusta Common on a Food Truck Friday with food trucks circled all the way around the Common and selling every type of food you can think of.” But this isn’t the limit to Romero’s vision: Over the next five years, he would like to build six to eight more trucks and have them all serving food between Colombia, S.C. and Athens, Ga. He says he is also interested in consulting with other people who are thinking about getting into the industry, seeking the advancement of the industry and the blossoming of the
food truck trend in Augusta. More information is available at BrownBagAugusta.com. “By having a lot of food trucks on the market, we’re not only serving ourselves, but we’re helping a lot of other businesses who really appreciate having us, because it helps their employees have a quick lunch break and get back to work without having to go really far,” said Romero. “If I had to guess I’d say that this trend isn’t going anywhere, and in Augusta, we’re just getting started.” article and photos by CHRISTOPHER SELMEK
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20 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
fresh food bites
a taste of korea
an average joe’s guide to eating healthier
RECOUP WITH SOUP
Probably the best – and worst – part of the holidays is all the delicious, irresistible food. Between the carb-filled sides, cheeseand-fat-drenched comfort grub and sugar-tooth enticing sweets, the holidays are probably just as much a contributor to everyone’s healthy eating New Year’s resolutions as they are a final hurrah before starting the year off right. Luckily, National Soup Month is in January and healthy – and, believe it or not, hearty – soup recipes are to be found everywhere you look online. Soup is a perfect January-weather food and can also be a treat for anyone watching their weight if made correctly. Despite being born and raised in Italy, my mother is one heck of a healthy cooker. Admittedly most of my weight gain over the years has been a result of pasta and bread rather than sweets and junk food. However, this was because of my own preparation and over-consumption. While I gained weight, Mom continued to stay thin and energized, all while continuing to enjoy pasta, rice and bread. The following recipe from Mom’s collection is an example of how a recipe, whether unhealthy or quasi-healthy, can be made even healthier yet remain delicious.
chow bella simple tips and recipes on cooking with natural goodness
KOREAN BBQ TACOS
One of my secrets is that I love Korean dramas – or K-dramas as they are affectionately called. I do not know exactly where my love of Korean culture came from, but suspect it has something to do with growing up on military bases where many of my friends had Korean mothers who regularly served me rice and kimchi. The luxury of being an Army Brat is that you are enveloped in multiculturalism in the most beautiful way, through love and marriage. This heritage brings me to today as, with blushed cheeks, I proclaim that I watch quirky yet homogenous K-dramas and always salivate over the Korean barbecue dishes. In Korea, going out for barbecue is like grabbing a burger and fries in the U.S. Alas, this column is about food and not my television viewing habits. So, in honor of my love for Korea and food, I decided to try Korean BBQ Tacos, a mix of Korea and a splash of the West. I adapted this recipe from foodformyfamily.com with a few slight adjustments based on personal taste and knowledge of what my family likes. I made a lettuce slaw for the tacos as opposed to cabbage, for no particular reason except that I thought it would be nice and bit western. Next time, I might try cabbage instead. I hope you enjoy – my taste buds certainly had a party with this one. By the way, if you are ever so inclined, Hulu is a great place to find Korean dramas. On a side note, if you live in or around downtown I recommend picking up your weekly greens at Sundrees Urban Market. The store has a good selection of seasonal vegetables and offers sixweek shares in a Community Supported Agriculture program. I recently did a produce share and received quality, seasonal vegetables from local farmers that I used in a variety of yummy
Mom’s Healthy & Hearty Minestrone
DIRECTIONS 1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan, add onion, celery and carrots and cook until soft. 2. Add garlic and cook for about a minute, then stir in chicken broth, tomatoes, spinach, beans, and pasta. 3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. 4. Add in zucchini and simmer for five minutes before removing from heat and stirring in basil. Serve immediately. You can enjoy a healthy, hearty soup that delights the palate and keeps your insides warm. Even better, you can enjoy the absence of those pesky guilty notions after eating something less healthy. This recipe serves four and each serving is a mere 190 calories, containing less than 5 grams of fat, 4 mg of cholesterol, a rather nice 9 grams of protein and 73 mg of calcium. Carbs are only around 30 grams and can be made even lower by adding wheat pasta and simmering five minutes more before adding the zucchini. It’s a new year, time to recoup from the holidays with the soup. by JOHN “STONEY” CANNON John believes that anyone can learn to eat healthier - in small steps - taking one bite at a time.
article and photo by ELLIE BENSON boyandabride.virb.com
from chow bella’s kitchen: Korean BBQ Tacos
INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil ½ c. copped onion ⅓ c. chopped celery 1 carrot, diced 1 garlic clove, minced 4 c. unsalted fat-free chicken broth 2 large tomatoes, chopped and seeded ½ c. spinach, chopped 1 16 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed ½ c. uncooked shell pasta 1 diced zucchini 2 tbsp. fresh chopped basil
recipes. Plus, shopping local if you can is a big help to our city. When the Saturday Market on the River is in full swing, there are always friendly and knowledgeable local growers. The Market starts back up in March.
Time consuming, but worth every bite
INGREDIENTS: 10 corn tortillas Marinade: ⅓ c. soy sauce ⅓ c. mirin 6 cloves garlic 2 tsp. fresh peeled ginger
3 pounds flanken-style beef short ribs ½ c. brown sugar ¼ c. sesame oil 6 scallions
Korean-Styled Lettuce Slaw: 1 lime, juiced 1 tbsp. mirin 1 to 2 tbsp. sriracha or chili pepper sauce 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp. sesame oil 3 c. romaine lettuce 1 c. daikon, diced into matchsticks 1 c. bean sprouts 3 scallions, diced 3 tbsp. cilantro, chopped 4 tbsp. sesame seeds MAKE THE MARINADE: 1. Mix all ingredients in a food processor until completely blended. 2. Pour over the short ribs in a large dish, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
MAKE SLAW: 1. Whisk together lime juice, mirin, sesame oil and sriracha. Then, slowly whisk in olive oil. 2. In a large plastic bag, combine the lettuce, daikon, bean sprouts, scallions, cilantro and sesame seeds. 3. Add the wet ingredients, close bag and shake to mix thoroughly.
PREPARE THE BEEF AND ASSEMBLE: 1. Pour the marinade off the ribs into a small saucepan. 2. Over medium heat, reduce the sauce, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick. 3. Place in a serving bowl to drizzle on tacos. 4. Heat the grill to 550 degrees. Grill the marinated ribs for three minutes. Flip and cook an additional three minutes. (Note: You can skillet cook the ribs on medium heat until desired doneness. The ribs should be somewhere between medium rare and medium well.) 5. Wrap the cooked ribs in foil and set aside. 6. Lower the grill heat to medium. Place corn tortillas on the grill, each side for 45 seconds. 7. Slice thin the short ribs 8. Assemble the tacos by placing the sliced BBQ ribs and the slaw in a corn tortilla, drizzle a little sauce over the mixture.
vergelive.com | community driven news | January 18, 2012 21
augusta’s homegrown super group
sibling string
on stage and in the studio, this quintet is creating a memorable sound
While there is no guaranteed formula to creating a successful band, there are many tried and true methods that – when mixed with some luck – can work. One method takes a talented, successful, award-winning singersongwriter and tosses him into a musical blender with some of the most talented, reputable musicians in town and, essentially, creates a homegrown super group. Augusta band Sibling String is such a band, originally created and based on the songs of singersongwriter Jacob Beltz and rounded out by award-winning guitarist Michael Baideme, upright bassist extraordinaire Deveran Roof, award-winning multiinstrumentalist Henry Wynn III on violin, and the multi-talented Dave Mercer on drums. The formula seems to have worked, as Sibling String has become a regular live fixture at Augusta venues, pleasing audiences with its mix of originals and exciting take on classic covers. Further evidence of the band’s popularity can be found in Sibling String’s eight nominations in the current Lokal Loudness Choice Awards poll.
“In the past, our goal was to play out as much as possible and now we hope to pull back in order to make each show more special. We’re looking to create a new and improved Sibling String.”
“All in all I think it would have to be our energy as a group,” said Beltz of the band’s success. “Just like anybody else we have moments of disorganization, but I feel when we are all on the same moment as a group, where we’re all on the same page, it speaks honestly with people and I think we play songs people enjoy and have a great time with the audience as a whole.” Building a close relationship with the audience has been an important goal from the day Beltz started working on his vision of the band in August 2009. After adding members one at a time, Sibling String made its live debut in early 2010. While created from the mind of Beltz, he insists that Sibling String is a band in the truest sense of the word. “If you took away any of our parts it wouldn’t sound right,” said Beltz. “I’m not the only songwriter in the band. All the guys have songs they’ve written and we all have equal part in constructing a song. Any moment when we’re writing, it can change.” That equal inspiration also applies to how Sibling String approaches choosing and playing covers. Each member contributes to everything the band does. It has been that way since the beginning and is an integral part of the band’s energy. “The shared governance of the writing and constructing really plays a huge part when our performance is brought to the stage,” said Beltz. “When we all know that song so well and all had a part in it being built, I think everyone feels the intensity of the song resulting in those magic moments. That’s the only time I feel those moments can surely happen.” Magical moments can happen when a group of talented, experienced musicians finds a way to meet on the same musical plane. Such moments can be rare, yet Sibling String somehow manages to create them on nightly basis. This type of energetic camaraderie has led to some big moments for the band to flex its musical muscle to a wider audience. “To me, Papa Joe’s Banjo-B-Que was huge,” said Beltz. “We were opening for John Popper’s (of Blues Traveler) new band. It was
— JACOB BELTZ
hot as hell even at 6 p.m. and there was this huge storm coming in from the west that they thought was going to rain out the event. But we got up there and started playing one of our newer songs and, in the middle of that song when it came to the pinnacle, the clouds broke and the sun flooded the field and stage and I looked at the guys and they all had this incredible likeness. It was hard to keep my focus on the song because the moment was so overwhelming. Right after we finished playing, it began to rain and the rest of the show pretty much was canceled.” Such incredible moments are hard to come by, but, as Beltz is quick to reiterate, some moments can happen in the most normal of circumstances. “Joe’s Underground is a special place because it is where we started. There is no telling what can happen there any given night. Although to give credit where credit is due, our most on-point night we ever had was at Metro Pub and Coffeehouse. People were standing up on the backs of booths and chairs because it was so crowded and everyone was having just a great time. I’ve never felt more as a band as that night.” While magical moments can happen on stage for a band when the proverbial planets align, taking that energy and recreating it in the studio can be difficult. The stale environment of the studio is a far cry from the unpredictable vibe of a live concert. It is a challenge Sibling String has taken on head first. “The cool thing about who we’re recording with now (Keith Ford of the recording studio The Batcave) is that he’s the first one who has allowed us to record live,” said Beltz. “We’re able to play the song and he records the structure and then we go back and add things in making for more of a live sound.” One would think recording in such a way would make the process speedier, but Sibling String’s current recording project has been in the works for a while. We’re just so picky,” said Beltz. “The mixing and hearing things that you don’t like can slow things down and being so exhausted from playing all the time makes it hard to get the energy to get
22 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
in and record. Not to sound lazy, but after playing four shows in a week, there’s little energy left.” While the recording process has taken longer than the band might have hoped, the end is drawing near, making a 2012 official release possible. This, combined with other things to come in the new year, has Beltz full of energy and excitement. “I would like for [the release of our album] to happen,” said Beltz. “It’s hard to say as we don’t want to take away focus from our prime goal and that’s our live show. We don’t want to sacrifice our live show for anything including recording. We have other goals for 2012 such getting out of town more and focusing on quality vs. quantity. Playing different stuff vs. playing out every week and concentrating on bringing the best show we can. In the past, our goal was to play out as much as possible and now we hope to pull back in order to make each show more special. We’re looking to create a new and improved Sibling String.” by JOHN “STONEY” CANNON photo LEAH DESLANDES
who is SIBLING STRING MEMBERS:
Jacob Beltz – Guitar/Vocals Michael Baideme – Electric/Acoustic Guitar Deveran Roof – Upright Bass Henry Wynn III – Violin Dave Mercer – Drums
SEE A SHOW: Wednesday, Jan. 18 | Joe’s Underground Friday, Jan. 27 | Stillwater Tap Room Wednesday, Feb. 1 | Joe’s Underground LEARN MORE: Find Sibling String on Facebook or SIBLINGSTRING.COM
the
daily planner
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO?
JAN 18 to feb. 4
[ 500 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION ] “Shen Yun,” for Chinese, the words evoke a sense of wonder, magic and the divine. For audiences, the words mean “the beauty of divine beings dancing” – a performance so powerfully beautiful it touches the soul. Shen Yun was established by Chinese artists in New York in 2006 with the mission of reviving 5,000 years of Chinese culture, much of it stifled by more than 60 years of c ommunist rule in China. Discover the glory of this rich culture, brought to life through brilliantly choreographed dance and mesmerizing, all-original orchestral compositions. Magnificently costumed dancers move in poetic arrangements that evoke pastoral beauty, imperial drama and the glory of an ancient civilization. WHAT Shen Yun WHERE Bell Auditorium | 712 Telfair St. WHEN Tuesday, Jan. 31 | 7:30 p.m. TICKETS $50 to $100 MORE 877.4AUGTIX or GEORGIALINATIX.COM The Daily Planner is our selective guide to what is going on in the city during the next two weeks. IF YOU WANT TO BE LISTED: Submit information by email (events@vergelive.com) or by mail (verge, P.O. Box 38, Augusta, GA 30903). Details of the event - date, time, venue address, telephone number and admission price - should be included. Listings included are accurate at press time, check with specific venues for further details.
number of Savannah River Site driving tours for the general public. Tour check-in begins at 12:30 p.m. at the Aiken County Center for Hydrogen Research. Guests will be given an overview presentation and safety briefing. Savannah River Site; 12:30 p.m.; free; 301 Gateway Dr., Aiken; 803.952.8467 SRS.GOV
WEDNESDAY
1.18
ONGOING
DAILY FOR KIDS DRAGON SCALES MONTH Take the
library reading challenge: For every book that you read ask for a dragon scale, write the name of the book in the scale and help make the dragon stretch around the children’s department. Headquarters Library; Feb. 1 to March 1; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600 ECGRL.COM
FOR KIDS WESTMINSTER HONORS SCHOLARSHIP
Westminster Schools of Augusta is accepting nominations for the Westminster Honors Scholarship until Feb. 17. This opportunity is open to rising ninth grade students, ranges from half to full tuition and is renewable each year. For more information, email admissions@ wsa.net. Westminster Schools of Augusta; 3067 Wheeler Road; 706.731.5260 WSA.NET
LITERARY POETRY MATTERS CONTEST Entries
accepted from people in the CSRA and beyond. Contest closes on March 23. Free to enter; 706.726.3246
EDUCATION SRS PUBLIC TOURS Savannah River Nuclear
Solutions, LLC, offers a limited
FOR KIDS THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA Presented by
The Patchwork Players. Maxwell Theatre; 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.; $3; 2500 Walton Way; 706.737.1625 AUG.EDU
COMMUNITY LANEY WALKER/BETHLEHEM ANNUAL MEETING Featuring
FESTIVAL HOME DEPOT JOB FAIR Home Depot
is identifying more than 60 candidates for hire for seasonal help positions for the Evans, Augusta and Aiken locations. Goodwill Job Connection - South Augusta; 1 p.m.; 3120 Peach Orchard Road; 706.790.8500
FOR KIDS BEVY THE CLOWN Join clown Beverly
Bentley for an hour of stories and fun. Maxwell Branch Library; 6:30 p.m.; free; 1927 Lumpkin Road; 706.793.2020
COMEDY A PAIR OF NUTS
The style of this comic duo has been compared with a modern day Abbott & Costello, Martin & Lewis, a throwback to the old school comedy duos with a modern flair. Their live stage show is an awardwinning multimedia sketch comedy show that consists of loosely improvised sketches intertwined with short videos. Note: Contains adult humor and is not appropriate for children. Alexander Hall; 6:30 p.m.; free; Building 29805 on Chamberlain Ave., Fort Gordon; 706.793.855 FORTGORDON.COM
the premiere of a film on the revitalization project and a preview of 2012 redevelopment activities. Tabernacle Baptist Church; 6 p.m.; 1239 LaneyWalker Blvd.; 706.821.1797
LITERARY PHILOSOPHY CLUB Kroc Center; 7 p.m.; free; 1833 Broad St.; 706.364.5762 KROCAUGUSTA.ORG
THURSDAY
1.19
LITERARY BROWN BAG BOOK CLUB Columbia County
Library; 11:30 a.m.; free; 7022 Evans Town Center; 706.863.1946
CONCERT MIDDAY MUSIC SERIES First Presbyterian Church; noon; music free, $9 for lunch (reservations only); 224 Barnwell Ave. NW, Aiken; 803.648.2662
COMEDY JERRY SEINFELD America’s premier comedian is hitting the road in a return to his first love – stand-up comedy. Hailed as the best comedian of our time in a Washington Post article by Tom Shales, Seinfeld has an uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. The Bell Auditorium; 7 p.m.; $45 to $75; 712 Telfair St.; 877.4.AUGTIX GEORGIALINATIX.COM
CONCERT WINTER NOCTURNE PIANO CONCERT USC Aiken
Etherredge Center; 7 p.m.; $15; 471 University Parkway, Aiken; 803.641.3305 USCA.EDU
FRIDAY
1.20
FOR KIDS SEE WSA DAY Interested students and
families are invited to visit Westminster, take a tour and see what Westminster has to offer. Call Aimee Lynch for more information. Westminster Schools of Augusta, Pamplin Hall; 9:30 a.m.; free; 3067 Wheeler Road; 706.731.5260 WSA.NET
GOOD CAUSE THIRD ANNUAL ROAST ON THE RIVER A benefit for the
Savannah Riverkeeper includes drinks, oysters and a low country boil with a silent and live auction. Hogan’s Marina; 6:30 p.m.; $35 individual or $50 couple, members receive $10 discount; 36 Wilmington Island Road, Savannah; 706.826.8991
CONCERT SOUTHERN SOUL AND SONG SERIES: MOUNTAIN HEART WITH TONY RICE Read the
article on page XX. Imperial Theatre; 7:30 p.m.; $13 to $37; 745 Broad St.; 706.722.8341 IMPERIALTHEATRE.COM
THEATRE WRONG WINDOW Filled with multiple FILM FRIDAY MOVIE NIGHT
FOR TEENS TEEN NIGHT
Play games and watch the movie I Am Number Four (based on the book by Pittacus Lore). A snack supper is included. Headquarters Library; 5:30 p.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600
HISTORY SECOND ANNUAL JIMMIE DYESS SYMPOSIUM The symposium was created and developed to recognize this native Augustan’s courage as both a citizen and a soldier of the United States and to identify others who have shown similar valor or made civic contributions above and beyond the call of duty. Major General Perry Smith, who served 30 years in the United States Air Force, will speak.. Augusta Museum of History Rotunda; 5 p.m.; free; 560 Reynolds St.; 706.722.8454 AUGUSTAMUSEUM.ORG
ART AND SHE LIVED OPENING RECEPTION
Through ceramics and mixed media paintings, a look at how work responds to life and how social thought and experimentation are influenced by one’s surroundings. Arts & Heritage Center of North Augusta; 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.; free; 100 Georgia Ave., North Augusta; 803.441.4380
In The Heat Of The Night, Oscar winner for Best Picture (1967), with Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger and Lee Grant. Rated PG-13. Enjoy dinner before the movie, beginning at 5:30 p.m. All movie customers who arrive before 7 p.m. will receive 25 percent off the food portion of their bill. Free popcorn. Casa Blanca Cafe; 7:30 p.m.; Free, but purchase of food or drink is appreciated; 936 Broad St.; 706.504.3431 CASABLANCATIME.COM
door-slamming, body snatchings and a frantic flashlight chase, this send-up of Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window will keep you rolling in the aisles. Suitable for ages 13-and-over. Aiken Community Playhouse; 8 p.m.; $35; 126 Newberry St., Aiken; 803.648.1438 ACP1011.COM
SATURDAY
1.21
GOOD CAUSE BURNS NIGHT SUPPER by St.
Andrews Society of Aiken. Newberry Hall; call for times and ticket info; 117 Newberry St., Aiken; 803.648.6789
CONCERT ASU LYCEUM SERIES: THE POULENC TRIO Presented by the Harry
Jacobs Chamber Music Society. Maxwell Theatre; 7:30 p.m.; $25 adults and $7 children; 2500 Walton Way; 706.667.4100 HJCMS.ORG
THEATRE PICKIN’ Augusta Mini Theatre presents an original play (written by Tyrone J. Butler) to salute to the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Judith Simon Drama Studio; 8 p.m.; $8 to $12; 2548 Deans Bridge Road; 706.722.0598
FESTIVAL INAUGURAL WILD GAME COOK-OFF
with four divisions: fowl, venison, pork and small game. Aiken County Recreation Center - Graniteville; 8 a.m.; $20 entry fee; Hwy. Rt. 1 in Graniteville; 803.642.7559
OUTDOORS SECOND ANNUAL DOGGONE COLD 5K Dog friendly event. Read the article on page XX. Julian Smith Casino; 9:30 a.m.; $10 for fun run, $25 for 5K; 706.294.6200 HOPEFULHOUNDS.ORG
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24 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
SATURDAY
1.21
LITERARY BOOK SALE
Appleby Library; 10 a.m.; free entry; 2260 Walton Way; 706.736.6244 ECGRL.ORG
FILM MARTIAL ARTS MOVIE MADNESS MARATHON Screening of
Bruce Lee films Fists of Fury, The Chinese Connection and Way of the Dragon. Headquarters Library; 11 a.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600 ECGRL.ORG
FOR KIDS THE WORLD OF OWLS Learn about owls
that live in Georgia, their adaptations and natural history. Dissect owl pellets, regurgitated bones that cannot be digested by the owls, to find out what they have been eating. Ages 5 and up. Reed Creek Nature Park; 11 a.m.; $2; 3820 Park Lane, Martinez; 706.210.4027 REEDCREEKPARK.COM
GOOD CAUSE BLUE JEAN BALL Enjoy music by the Blue
Dogs and food by French Market Grille West while supporting Turn Back The Block. Open House on the River; 7 p.m.; $60; 1213 Old Plantation Road, North Augusta; 706.262.4000 TURNBACKTHEBLOCK.COM
CONCERT HARMONY & INVENTION presented
SPORTS USCA EXTRA INNING PBR Hosted by the
Augusta Cutting Horse Futurity, top bull riders in the country will go head to head in this fundraiser for the University of South Carolina Aiken Baseball team. James Brown Arena; 8 p.m.; $18 to $22 adults, $10 for children 12-and-under; 601 Seventh St.; 877.4.AUGTIX GEORGIALINATIX.COM
THEATRE WRONG WINDOW See listing on Jan. 20. Aiken Community Playhouse; 8 p.m.
FOR KIDS INTRO TO MUSICAL STRING INSTRUMENTS WITH MR. BERRET Registration required
for this program. Headquarters Library; 1 p.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600 ECGRL.ORG
ART DAVIDSON FINE ARTS SCHOOL SHOWCASE Featuring Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School art and student talent. GoodBooks Café; 1 p.m.; free; 3179 Washington Road; 706.650.5760 GOODWILLWORKS.ORG
FESTIVAL 61ST ANNUAL AIKEN CAMELLIA SHOW
Any camellia grower may exhibit. Free camellia plants will be given to everyone who joins the American Camellia Society at the show. Aiken Mall; 3 p.m. CAMELLIAS-ACS.COM
SPORTS AUGUSTA FUTURITY See listing on Jan.
22. James Brown Arena
FOR KIDS CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION Gung
Hay Fat Choy! Come in to make dragons. Headquarters Library; 10 a.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600 ECGRL.ORG
FOR KIDS CRAFT WORKSHOP: TUESDAY WINTER FUN! Craft is
designed for children ages 3- to 5-years-old. Registration begins Jan. 5. Appleby Library; 11 a.m.; free; 2260 Walton Way; 706.736.6244 ECGRL.ORG
SUNDAY
1.22 SPORTS 33RD ANNUAL AUGUSTA FUTURITY
A national horse cutting event. Daytime general admission: $9 adults, $2 kids 12-andunder; general sdmission gold ticket: $35 (Valid only for events until 6:30 p.m.); CRSA night: $14.50 adults, $5 kids 12 and under; Classic Finals: $14.50 adults, $5 kids 12 and under; Futurity Finals: $16.50 adults, $5 kids 12 and under. See website for daily schedule. James Brown Arena; ticket price varies, see event description; 601 Seventh St.; 706.722.3521 AUGUSTAFUTURITY.COM
THEATRE PICKIN’ See listing on Jan. 20. Judith Simon Drama Studio; 3 p.m. THEATRE WRONG WINDOW See listing on Jan. 20. Aiken Community Playhouse; 3 p.m.
MONDAY
1.23
SPORTS AUGUSTA FUTURITY See listing on Jan.
22. James Brown Arena
FILM MOVIES @ MAIN: DOG DAY AFTERNOON
124 minutes, rated R. Headquarters Library; 6:30 p.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600
WEDNESDAY
1.25
CONCERT FACULTY ARTISTS RECITAL USC
Aiken Etherredge Center; 7:30 p.m.; free; 471 University Parkway, Aiken; 803.641.3305
FRIDAY
1.27
See listing on Jan. 20. Aiken Community Playhouse; 8 p.m.
SATURDAY
1.28
SPORTS 33RD ANNUAL AUGUSTA FUTURITY See
listing on Jan. 22. James Brown Arena
LITERARY BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION & SIGNING
Author Dr. Daniel Black will discuss his book Twelve Gates to the City. Headquarters Library; 1 p.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600 ECGRL.ORG
SPORTS AUGUSTA FUTURITY See listing on Jan.
22. James Brown Arena
1.26
SPORTS AUGUSTA FUTURITY See listing on Jan.
22. James Brown Arena
LITERARY MAXWELL MORNING BOOK CLUB
Discuss the book Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery. Maxwell Branch Library; 10 a.m.; free; 1927 Lumpkin Road; 706.793.2020 ECGRL.ORG
CONCERT Columbia County Civic Orchestra recital series
with Robert Nordan directing. University Healthcare Building 3; 3 p.m.; $10; 465 North Belair Road, Suite 2E COLUMBIACCO.ORG
to the sounds of the Palmetto Groove Party Band to support ACTS food ministries. Newberry Hall; 6 p.m.; $65; 117 Newberry St., Aiken; 803.649.3800 ACTSOFAIKEN.ORG See listing on Jan. 20. Aiken Community Playhouse; 8 p.m.
page 5. Headquarters Library; 6:30 p.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.469.3356 ECGRL.ORG
The second Dog Gone Cold 5K takes off from the Julian Smith Barbeque Pit at 10 a.m. on Jan. 21, inviting walkers and runners to bring their canine companions along for the race which benefits Hopeful Hounds Inc. and The Americans Black and Tan Coonhound Rescue. Hopeful Hounds Inc. is a nonprofit group of volunteers dedicated to improving the welfare of animals. Their mission is to promote pet adoptions through county animal services and rescue groups, educate the public on the importance of spay/ neuter programs, educate the community about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership, and fundraise to help support shelter animals and animal rescue groups. The race proceeds along the Augusta Canal from the GreenJackets Stadium, past the CSRA Humane Society and up to the Augusta Waterworks, then back. Dogs are invited and encouraged to participate in this race as long as they are kept on a leash, well-socialized and up to date on all vaccinations. Interested runners can pay the $30 registration fee online at strictlyrunning.com, at Fleet Feet in North Augusta on Jan. 20 from 4 to 7 p.m., or before the event from 8 to 9:45 a.m. at the Julian Smith Barbeque Pit. The one-mile Fun Run begins at 9:30 a.m. and has an entry fee of $10. Volunteers are needed to help on the day of the race. For more information, email HopefulHoundsInc@gmail.com.
WHAT Dog Gone Cold 5K WHERE Julian Smith Casino | 2200 Broad St. WHEN Jan. 21 | 8 a.m. TICKETS $10 to $30 MORE | HOPEFULHOUNDS.ORG
ART EXHIBITION CLOSING: LOCAL COLOR: Photography
in the South. Photographers William Greiner, Meryl Truett, Dave Anderson and Birney Imes discuss their work and the photographs included in the exhibition. Morris Museum of Art; 6 p.m.; $5; 1 10th St.; 706.724.7501
SUNDAY
MONDAY
1.29 1.30
EDUCATION STOP SMOKING GROUP SESSION with Kay Russell,
GOOD CAUSE ACTS ICICLE BALL Dinner and dancing
THEATRE WRONG WINDOW LITERARY FRIENDS OF THE AUGUSTA PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNUAL MEETING Read article on
[ A DOGGONE RACE ]
THURSDAY
on Jan. 20. Judith Simon Drama Studio; 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
and beverages are available for donations that will go toward use of the facility. Glenn Hills Baptist Church; 6 p.m.; free; 2877 Lumpkin Road; 706.373.7855
a Junior Achievement CSRA Business Hall of Fame Laureate is reflective of the individual’s business accomplishments, entrepreneurial vision, leadership, charitable endeavors and community impact. Local businessmen Jeff Hadden, Joey Hadden, Rick Allen, Perry Smith and Joseph Greene will be honored this year’s event. Augusta Riverfront Marriott; 6:30 p.m.; call for ticket information; 2 10th St.; 706.736.3070 GEORGIA.JA.ORG
THEATRE WRONG WINDOW Lunch is provided after concert. Reservations required. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church; noon; music is free, lunch is $10; Sixth and Reynolds streets; 706.722.3463 TUESDAYSMUSICLIVE.COM
daily planner
GOOD CAUSE CSRA BUSINESS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION To be named
listing on Jan. 22. James Brown Arena
THEATRE PICKIN’ See listing
CONCERT PICKIN’ AND PRAISIN’ CONCERT SERIES A meal, desserts
the
SPORTS 33RD ANNUAL AUGUSTA FUTURITY See
CONCERT TUESDAY MUSIC LIVE Featuring Isaac Holmes.
from the Metropolitan Opera. Regal Augusta Exchange Stadium 20; 12:55 p.m.; $18 to $24; 1144 Agerton Lane; 706.667.9713
cooking demonstration by local chef Bev Bullock. Call to register. The Fresh Market; 1 p.m.; 2701 Washington Road; 706.667.0090
1.24
by the Symphony Orchestra Augusta. First Baptist Church of Augusta; 7:30 p.m.; $10 to $45; 706.826.4705 SOAUGUSTA.ORG
THEATRE THE ENCHANTED ISLAND Opera streamed live
EDUCATION FRESH FLAVORS DEMO: CURRY THREE WAYS A step-by-step
TUESDAY
SPORTS WINTER BLAST
Six-on-six co-ed soccer tournament includes boys’ Divisions 1 and 2, girls’ divisions 1 and 2, men’s Divisions 1, 2 and 35+, women’s Divisions 1, 2 and Open.Lions Memorial Field, $150 per team of 6; 619 W. Buena Vista Ave., North Augusta; 706.312.7415
a certified hypnotist, is for the community in honor of National Hypnotherapy Day. Reserve a seat in advance by calling. The Balanced Body; 6:30 p.m.; free; 2916 Professional Pkwy.; 706.736.3377
FILM ASU SPRING FILM SERIES: RAVANCHE 170
University Hall at ASU; 7 p.m.; $2; 2500 Walton Way, 706.729.2416 AUG.EDU
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TUESDAY
1.31
FOR KIDS TODDLER TIME: A MAN NAMED DAVE Learn
THURSDAY
2.2
about the life of Dave Drake and the pottery he created. Morris Museum of Art; 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.; $4; 1 10th St.; 706.724.7501 THEMORRIS.ORG
FOR KIDS ETIQUETTE WITH MS. TURRENDER BATES Learn about good manners. Headquarters Library; 10 a.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600
HISTORY HISTORY OF AIKEN – A BEAUTIFUL STORY The second of five
lectures on the history of Aiken, Owen Clay will share Aiken’s role in the Civil War. Part of the Friends of the Aiken County Historical Museum 2012 Lecture Series. Aiken County Historical Museum; 10:30 a.m. $30 for the series; 433 Newberry St. SW, Aiken; 803.642.2015
FILM MOVIES @ MAIN: TAXI DRIVER 113 minutes,
rated R. Headquarters Library; 6:30 p.m.; free; 823 Telfair St.; 706.821.2600 ECGRL.ORG
THEATRE SHEN YUN
Read the article on page XX. Bell Auditorium; 7:30 p.m.; $50 to $100; 712 Telfair St.; 706.724.2400
FOR KIDS BARNUM BASH
Ringling Brothers has assembled the most amazing international acts, including Dmitri the Strong Man, Epic Asian Elephants and Wheel of Steel, ready to perform wild feats of wonders and strength. James Brown Arena; 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.; $21 to $37; 601 Seventh St.; 706.722.3521 GEORGIALINATIX.COM
GOOD CAUSE LECTURE BY JOE LAMP’L Known for
his book, The Green Gardener’s Guide, and TV shows Fresh from the Garden and Growing a Greener WorldÆ, Lamp’l will speak as part of the Nola Falcone Speaker Series and the Sacred Heart Garden Festival. Proceeds benefit Sacred Heart Cultural Center. Reservations are required. Augusta Country Club; 10 a.m.; $35; 655 Milledge Road; 706.826.4700 SACREDHEARTAUGUSTA.ORG
FESTIVAL FIRST THURSDAY ON KINGS WAY Enjoy an evening out
in Summerville as stores stay open, refreshments are served and friendships are made. Kings Way in Summerville; 5 p.m.; free; Kings Way and Central Avenue; 706.755.2665
SPORTS ALL-AREA FOOTBALL BANQUET
Minneapolis-based 3 Pill Morning got together in 2003 and, since then, have opened for major national acts including Buckcherry, Hinder, Papa Roach, Chevelle, Nonpoint, Default, Trapt, Framing Hanley and Cavo. They spent part of 2011 in Nashville recording their second full-length album with producers Jon King (Augustana, Future Leaders of the World), Brian Virtue (Chevelle, 30 Seconds to Mars, Deftones) and Corey Lowery (Sevendust, Dark New Day) to help take their sound to the next level. 3 Pill Morning is Jeff Stebbins – vocals, Ryan Walch – guitar, Charlie Thompson – bass and Jeremy Moore – drums. Their music has been featured on MTV’s The Duel, on national radio and earned them a slot on last year’s Shiprocked Cruise. The group made more headway with their debut single, “Loser,” which rose to No, 53 on the Active Rock charts and stayed in the top 100 for more than five months. Touring behind their album Take Control kept them on the road through most of the past year. Several national tours are planned for 2012, along with the release of a second single.
WHAT 3 Pill Morning + The Atom Blonde + Stillview WHERE The Playground Bar | 978 Broad St. WHEN Monday, Jan. 30 | $5 MORE | reverbnation.com/playgroundbar
daily planner
FRIDAY
2.3 FESTIVAL ANTIQUES IN THE HEART OF AIKEN More than 20 dealers from New York to Texas offer linens, militaria, porcelains, furniture, clocks and jewelry for show and sale. Restoration experts will also be on-hand. Aiken Center for the Arts; 10 a.m.; $8 for all three days; 122 Laurens St. SW, Aiken; 803.641.9094
FOR KIDS BARNUM BASH
See listing on Feb. 2. James Brown Arena; 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.
FESTIVAL FIRST FRIDAY
Downtown Augusta celebrates the first Friday of each month as art galleries display new works and vendors sell their handmade goods along Broad Street. Family friendly. Downtown Augusta; 5 p.m.; free; Broad Street; 706.826.4702 AUGUSTAARTS.COM
GOOD CAUSE ROOTS & WINGS AUCTION Bid on
[ 3 pill morning ]
the
The Augusta Chronicle and Augusta Sports Council honor the best of the best in high school, college and professional football. The Georgia, South Carolina and Independent School All-Area Teams will be honored during the banquet, along with the 2011 Ray Guy Award winner Ryan Allen and the 2012 class of American Football Kicking Hall of Fame inductees. The Deon Grant Award will also be awarded to the overall high school player of the year. Augusta Riverfront Marriott; 6 p.m.; $30; 2 10th St.; 706.722.8326
exciting items and trips to Alaska, Hawaii and North Carolina at this silent and live auction event. Enjoy dinner by Very Vera and help Westminster celebrate its 40th anniversary. Proceeds benefit Westminster Schools of Augusta. Sacred Heart Cultural Center; 6:30 p.m.; $50; 1301 Greene St.; 706.731.5260 WSA.NET
[ a tale of two autumns ] Walter Cumming, an award-winning staff artist and illustrator for The Atlanta JournalConstitution for 28 years, will exhibit his latest paintings at The Fire House Gallery in Louisville, Ga., from Jan. 21 through Feb. 26. The watercolor and pastel paintings are scenes of the changing light of autumn from the mountains of North Georgia to the cityscapes of Atlanta. Cumming, an Augusta native, combines his passion for the outdoors and travel with his art – journaling his adventures in vivid paint. Before he left the Journal-Constitution to pursue art fulltime, he won “Best of Cox” in the Portfolio for Illustration category and first place for illustration from the Society of Newspaper Design.
WHAT A Tale of Two Autumns: Mountain and Urban Landscapes WHERE The Fire House Gallery | 605 Mulberry St., Louisville, Ga. WHEN Jan. 21 to Feb. 26 | Free MORE | 478.625.0387 or GALLERYAFIRE.COM SATURDAY
2.4 CONCERT COVENANT CONCERT SERIES The
Magellan String Quartet performs movements from some of the most important pieces from the history of string quartets. Covenant Presbyterian Church; 6:30 p.m.; free, offering taken; 3131 Walton Way; 706.733.0513 COVENANTAUGUSTA.ORG
THEATRE AUDITIONS FOR THE SOUND OF MUSIC Visit the website for
audition requirements. The Augusta Players; 7:30 p.m.; open to the public; 706.826.4707 AUGUSTAPLAYERS.ORG
OUTDOORS SWAMP SATURDAY The Academy’s
CONCERT IGUDESMAN & JOO USC Aiken Etherredge
Center; 8 p.m.; $40 adults, $20 students; 471 University Parkway, Aiken; 803.641.3305 USCA.EDU
COMEDY SCHRODINGER’S CAT PLAYS EXTREME THEATRE GAMES These
extreme theater games are sure to delight any mature audience member. Le Chat Noir; 8 p.m.; $8 advance, $10 door; 304 Eighth St.; 706.722.3322 SCHRODINGERSCATAUG.COM
trained volunteers lead free, 2.5-mile, 1.5-hour hikes through wetlands, over picturesque trails and scenic outlooks. Phinizy Swamp; 9:30 a.m.; free; 1858 Lock & Dam Road; 706.828.2109
FESTIVAL ANTIQUES IN THE HEART OF AIKEN See
listing on Feb. 3. Aiken Center for the Arts; 10 a.m.
FOR KIDS BARNUM BASH
See listing on Feb. 2. James Brown Arena; 3:30 and 7 p.m.
FOR KIDS THE PROTECTED ANIMALS OF GEORGIA Look at some of the 117 different species of animals protected in Georgia and how to get involved with the preservation of wildlife in Georgia. For ages 5 and up. Preregistration required. Reed Creek Nature Park; 10 a.m.; $2; 3820 Park Lane, Martinez; 706.210.4027 REEDCREEKPARK.COM
FESTIVAL HERITAGE GALA Sixth annual event
features keynote speaker John W. Franklin, the director of partnerships and international programs at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History; 7 p.m.; $75; 1116 Phillips St.; 706.724.3576
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between the
covers ARE YOU WHAT YOU READ?
How to Have a Happier New Year
The purpose of life is to seek happiness. Wealth, fame and beauty do not increase happiness. Happiness is not the same as pleasure and it is more than not being depressed. These are a few insights from some recent books about how to increase happiness. Before giving sound advice on how to be happy, these books explore the practical benefits of being happier and what it means to be happier. Is it the same as satisfaction, fulfillment, gratification or wellbeing? The root word “happ” means luck, but these authors say that happiness has nothing to do with luck. In Authentic Happiness, author Martin Seligman says that there are six virtues common to all cultures and religions that support happiness: Humanity and Love, Wisdom and Knowledge, Courage, Justice, Temperance, Spirituality and Transcendence. Under each of these virtues are 24 “personal strengths,” which are described by Seligman in a unique way. There is a test for the reader to identify their most personally important strengths. Seligman then recommends how these strengths can be put to use in work, love and parenting. His most important point is that using your signature strengths effectively leads to gratification, which in turn leads to a more lasting happiness than the pursuit of pleasure alone. He also makes some common recommendations, such as the importance of expressing gratitude, and a few unusual ones, such as the importance of mental disputation to break negative thought patterns. One of the strengths of this book is the 10 questionnaires that are designed to gauge your current level of happiness and various factors that affect happiness. Nine more are available for free at authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu. When Gretchen Rubin, the author of The Happiness Project, told people about her plans for a year-long happiness project, recorded almost daily in a blog, they usually asked her if she was depressed. As a former lawyer, not in the psychology profession, she leaves out the issue of depression completely. She has a light-hearted, appealing style of writing that is easy to read and often funny. One of her main goals was to develop mental habits to deal with future challenges to her current happiness. Rubin says that she scored well on an “Authentic Happiness questionnaire,” but did not feel happy in the midst of her daily life. She learns more from reading the accounts of the happiness success stories of people, than from statistics of research studies. She is haunted by this quotation of the writer Colette: “What a wonderful life I’ve had! I only wish that I had realized it sooner.” Each month of her year-long happiness project, she sets a goal that focuses on boosting some quality that supports happiness and each goal is covered in a chapter of the book, such as Boost Energy, Remember Love, Lighten Up, Make Time for Friends, Contemplate the Heavens and Boot Camp Perfect. The actions she takes to accomplish each goal are usually simple, practical and realistic. For example, she attempts to keep a food diary of what she eats each day to keep herself from habitually eating so much “fake food.” This increases her happiness by decreasing the later feelings of guilt over having eaten food she knows is unhealthy. More self-awareness to limit self-defeating habits and boost happiness is a theme throughout the book. thehappinessproject.com A New York Times bestseller for two years, The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler is the most successful book on happiness ever written. Cutler’s understanding of the psychology of happiness is obvious in the first chapter. Even though this book is almost 15 years old, the information that Cutler presents seems like a condensation of almost all the other books on happiness written more recently. So you have a westerner with great knowledge about happiness asking questions of an easterner with great wisdom about how to be happy. The fact that the Dalai Lama is able to successfully present his considerable wisdom without promoting his Buddhist religion, in a way that can appeal to anyone, is a tribute to both his great compassion and Cutler’s skill as coauthor. Having wrestled with depression himself throughout his life, Dr. Andrew Weil presents a personal perspective on methods to increase happiness in his new book Spontaneous Happiness, the 13th book he has written in the past 40 years. As the leading spokesperson for “integrative medicine,” a combination of traditional and alternative therapies, Weil has written mostly about how nutrition and therapies, such as acupuncture, can increase physical health. In this new book he presents the view that alternative treatments can also benefit mental health and happiness. For example, he says that the switch to mostly indoor work environments has resulted in most people being deficient in vitamin D, which is normally produced by our skin during exposure to sunlight when outdoors. One of the possible negative results of Vitamin D deficiency is depression. Weil does a great job of presenting positive psychology techniques in a straightforward way, and other unusual and common mood boosters, from visualization and breathing meditation, to walking and gardening. spontaneoushappiness.com by MICHAEL SWAN, DIRECTOR OF THE AIKEN LIBRARY
28 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
the
daily planner
the
film reel NOW PLAYING ON THE BIG SCREEN
Need inspiration to keep up with your New Year’s resolution to hit the gym? This week’s new releases offer motivation to moviegoers who want to rock skin-tight leather bodysuits the way Kate Beckinsale does in UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING or effortlessly knock down dangerous spies like mixed martial arts star Gina Carano, who makes her major movie debut in HAYWIRE. Beckinsale returns to the role of seriously tough vampire Selene for her third film in the fourfeature UNDERWORLD franchise (she did not appear in Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, a series prequel). This release is the first of these vampire-werewolf warfare flicks to be screened in 3D and it sees Selene escape from captivity to fight for survival in an environment where humans look to eliminate the vampire and lycan species. The Swedish directing team of Marlind and Stein worked with writer-producer Len Wiseman, who also directed parts of this series in the past and is married to Beckinsale. Wiseman is currently directing a remake of Total Recall, a film in which Beckinsale will appear as the villain previously played by Sharon Stone. That movie is slated for release in August.
Roger Chamieh, Eventually, 2009, Mixed media installation
[ ARTIST TALK: RESONANT FREQUENCIES, AN EXHIBITION ] In 1913, the Italian Futurist painter and composer, Luigi Russolo, penned his manifesto, L’ Arte dei Rumori (The Art of Noises), which changed the role of sound in art. Over the past 100 years, artists have continued to pursue new ways to incorporate sound into visual art. This exhibit explores how actual and implied sound is utilized in sculpture, painting and technology-driven artwork. Artists include Roger Chamieh, a sculptor and installation artist from Tampa, Fla.; Peter Edwards, a sculptor and musician from Troy, N.Y.; and Nathan Ethier, a painter from New York City. Visitors will have the opportunity to discuss the exhibition with select artists and the show’s curator, Marc Mitchell. A reception follows.
WHERE Contemporary Gallery at the Center for Art & Theatre at Georgia Southern University | 233 Pittman Dr., Statesboro, Ga. WHEN Artist Talk on Wednesday, Feb. 1; exhibit ends Feb. 26 | Free MORE | 912.GSU.ARTS or CLASS.GEORGIASOUTHERN.EDU/ART SATURDAY
principal musicians partner creating a dynamic and beautiful performance featuring an array of works by Ibert, Schubert, Mozart, Neilson and more. Part of the Bank of America Columbia County Series for Symphony Orchestra Augusta. Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center; 7:30 p.m.; $15; 7022 Evans Town Center Blvd., Evans; 706.826.4705 SOAUGUSTA.ORG
ONGOING
ART
LOCAL COLOR: PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE SOUTH Ends Jan. 29. Morris
Museum of Art; $3 to $5; 1 10th St.; 706.724.7501
SKY CITY JANUARY ART EXHIBIT Featuring artists Nick Bass, Anna Patrick, Joey Hart and Heather Warren. Sky City; cover varies; 1157 Broad St.
STACI SWIDER: DANCING ALONG THE RED ROAD
Swider is best known for her mixed media paintings, which often come with a story, literal and interpreted. Ends Feb. 17. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art; free; 506 Telfair St.; 706.722.5495
GINA CARANO GOES HAYWIRE
Executive Producer and visual effects master George Lucas has been working on the bigscreen concept for RED TAILS for more than 23 years. Lucas’s action-adventure film based on the true story of the Tuskegee Airmen and their heroics in aerial combat during World War II was directed by Anthony Hemingway (HBO’s Treme, The Wire). Terrence Howard and Cuba Gooding Jr. lead the predominantly African-American male cast as the movie highlights the unit’s accomplishments and their challenges as black men destined for glory in a social climate that tested them with obstacles fueled by racial prejudice. Bryan Cranston co-stars.
rural South. From farmland to seashore, she captures the personality and emotion of both man and nature, continuing her use of loose, colorful stroke work. Ends Feb. 29. Sacred Heart Cultural Center; free; 1301 Green St.; 706.826.4700
2.4
CONCERT WENDY COHEN & VONDA DARR – HARP AND FLUTE Two of SOA’s
Gina Carano, a Mixed Martial Arts alum, alters her career path with a star turn in director Steven Soderbergh’s (Traffic, Ocean’s Eleven) latest action thriller. Carano plays a CIA agent who goes rogue after being betrayed by her handlers in HAYWIRE. She stands up to, and holds her own on-screen opposite the likes of Michael Douglas, Channing Tatum, Michael Fassbender, Antonio Banderas and Ewan McGregor.
JEROME MEADOWS: WORLD VIEW Savannah artist
Meadows combines a variety of found, fabricated, and nontraditional objects to engage the viewer through the interplay of provocative and sometimes disparate elements. Ends Feb. 17. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art; free; 506 Telfair St.; 706.722.5495
AND SHE LIVED BY SOUTHERN OBSERVATORY A look at how work responds to life and how social thought and experimentation are influenced by one’s surroundings. Ends Feb. 25. Arts & Heritage Center of North Augusta; $3 to $5; 100 Georgia Ave., North Augusta; 803.441.4380
WALTER CUMMING: A TALE OF TWO AUTUMNS
Read the article on page 27. The Firehouse Gallery; Jan. 21 to Feb. 26; 605 Mulberry St., Louisville
RESONANT FREQUENCIES, AN EXHIBITION Read the
article above. Ends Feb. 26. Contemporary Gallery at the Center for Art & Theatre at Georgia Southern University; free; 233 Pittman Dr., Statesboro; 912.GSU.ARTS
LENN HOPKINS EXHIBITION Lenn Hopkins’
current body of work is inspired by images and lifestyles of the
WORKING SOUTH:
TUSKEGEE AIRMEN: CUBA GOODING, JR. AND NATE PARKER PAINTINGS & SKETCHES BY MARY WHYTE Renowned
watercolorist Mary Whyte captures in exquisite detail the essence of vanishing blue-collar professions from across 10 states in the American South. Ends Mar. 11. Morris Museum of Art; $3 to $5; 1 10th St.; 706.724.7501
JOHN GLAVE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT
Aiken Center for the Arts; free; 122 Laurens St. SW, Aiken; 803.278.0709
A modernized adaptation of a Shakespearean play opens in limited release. Ralph Fiennes (The English Patient, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows) directs and stars as the title character in CORIOLANUS. Gerard Butler, Vanessa Redgrave and Jessica Chastain also star in this manly tale of war and revenge written for the screen by John Logan, whose credits also include Gladiator and The Last Samurai. Jan. 20 also brings the expanded release of EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE, a drama about a boy with signs of Asperger’s syndrome who goes on a search throughout New York City to find the lock that can be opened with a special key that belonged to his father, who died at the World Trade Center on 9/11. Oscar winners Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock play young Oskar’s parents, as newcomer and kids’ Jeopardy! champ Thomas Horn does the dramatic heavy lifting as the boy who lost his dad on a day America will never forget. This film was adapted from the 2005 novel by Jonathan Safran Foer with director Stephen Daldry (The Hours, Billy Elliot) at the helm. The supporting cast includes Max von Sydow, John Goodman and Viola Davis. Jan. 27 brings more action and adventure as Liam Neeson struggles to survive while being hunted by wolves in the Alaskan wilderness in THE GREY, Avatar star Sam Worthington riles up the NYPD (look out for his ulterior motive) as the MAN ON A LEDGE, and Katherine Heigl (27 Dresses) embodies novelist Janet Evanovich’s detective heroine Stephanie Plum in ONE FOR THE MONEY, the inaugural film adapted from the writer’s popular series.
discover more to see, more to do, more to hear more to experience @ vergelive.com NEESON FENDS OFF WOLVES
by MARIAH GARDNER, MOVIE GURU
vergelive.com | community driven news | January 18, 2012 29
stoney’s
sound bites
the guy who put the “k” In lokal gets vocal about augusta’s music scene
So far, I can proudly say that I am still on top of all of my New Year’s resolutions. To be totally honest, I’m actually finding it pretty easy. At this point, my biggest daily decision is whether or not to bring a jacket when I leave the house every morning. Some might complain about the wishy-washy weather, but if that is the toughest decision I have to make every day… On Jan. 21, Augusta hip-hop band Dredneck will make its official debut at Sky City as the group moves to support its popular single, “Glitterbone.” The track, which gained popularity during the band’s previous incarnation as Jemani, has created extra talk for Dredneck, which features four members of Jemani’s final recording lineup. Could this be a final grasp to salvage what was left of Jemani’s popularity or the culmination of moving into a more hip-hop direction? Either way, what’s important is how Dredneck stands its own musical merits. Tune in Jan. 21 to find out. Until then keep up with the band at DREDNECK.COM. In this day and age, with music fans able to download not just entire albums but select cuts, it’s easier for a band to get their music out but harder to get fans to take in the vanished art of allowing an entire album to grow on you. South Augusta native Carey Murdock has decided to make the supreme sacrifice to get fans to enjoy his most recent release, Baby Don’t Look Down by offering the album free through his blog site THEMURDOCK.TUMBLR.COM. If Springsteen, Tom Waits and soulful rootsy rock ‘n’ roll is your thing, then here is your chance to get 11 tracks by this up-and-coming singer-songwriter for free. As the world waits for a possible James Brown tribute album to come out of the Brown camp, Tom Sanders, a 20-year music vet based out of Ripley, Tenn., has decided to release his own tribute. With two self-penned songs, Sanders has taken advantage of the lack of effort by big-name artists to create musical tributes to the Godfather since his passing by releasing his own tribute through Portra Records. The tracks, “You Can’t Touch Him” and “I Got It - On the Good Foot” are available for download through 38 music companies, including iTunes and Amazon, and a video for “I Got It-On the Good Foot” is on YouTube.com. It’s more proof that the influence of James Brown continues to inspire more than five years after his passing.
L.i.e. won the Dixie Dregs Award for Favorite Lokal Band in 2011
Speaking of influence, after two months of online voting the end of last year the nominees for the 2012 Lokal Loudness Choice Awards are now up and ready for you to vote on at LOKALLOUDNESS.COM. Once the dust has settled winners of all 17 awards will be announced at Sky City on Feb. 10, the official 20th anniversary of Lokal Loudness. Until next time, remember to check out the Daily Planner in print and online at VERGELIVE.COM for great live shows. To get an earful of what is happening in Augusta music, stop by and listen to me rant with my good buddy Brian “Stak” Allen on CONfederation of Loudness, which can be found ironically enough at CONFEDERATIONOFLOUDNESS.COM and, of course, as always … Make it LOKAL, Keep it Loud.
John “Stoney” Cannon is considered the guru of “lokal” music. Check out his long-running Augusta music website: lokalloudness.com. Send any music news to lokalloudness@yahoo.com.
30 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
night
A SELECTIVE GUIDE TO NIGHTLIFE IN THE CSRA
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 18 JULIANA FINCH @ Manuel’s Bread Café | 5:30 p.m. COMEDY ZONE: KENNY SMITH & JOHN BURTON @ Somewhere in Augusta | 8 p.m.; $8
SIBLING STRING
SIBLING STRING @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m.
REVIEW: WELCOME TO THE MOTION - ADAM SAMS The new album by Augusta transplanted musician Adam Sams, Welcome to the Motion, has all the passion and feeling that a young artist can channel. Yet, it does not have the choppy, thrown-together style many fledgling musicians display in early work. Sams’ album is a tight-knit collection of personal songs. He lets loose with acoustic abandon and puts his heart on his sleeve, showing what he is made of – faith-filled beliefs which infuse his positive lyrics. Containing seven inspirational tracks, Welcome to the Motion isn’t your run of the mill acoustic rock album full of woe-isme self-conscious whining. Instead, Sams’ album brings out a wellspring of good feeling as he shows there are ways to move forward in life without wallowing in self-pity. The pervasive positive message throughout the album, especially on the title track, is right out there in front making sure the fans know there is more to life than just waiting for it to pass you by. Welcome to the Motion begins with “Nameless Race” and moves into “Foreign” before getting into memorable, inspirational tracks such as “Smaller” and “Welcome to the Motion.” “This Old House” takes the rock back down a peg or two, delving into a more early Dylan-esque style of music. The album finishes up with “My Faith is in the Grave” and “Surrounded.” The music Sams creates could easily fit into the soundtrack of an independent movie, which says a lot about his sound – its commerciality and overwhelming acoustic indie rock catchiness. Catchy, commercial, emotional, introspective – these qualities make Welcome to the Motion an excellently crafted masterpiece. the profiler is DINO LULL
KARAOKE AND GAMES TUESDAYS Trivia with Charles @ Somewhere in Augusta | 8 p.m. Twisted Trivia @ The Playground Bar | 8 p.m. WEDNESDAYS TRIVIA NIGHT @ Surrey Tavern 8 p.m. Krazy Karaoke @ The Playground Bar | 8 p.m.
THURSDAYS TANGO NIGHT @ Casa Blanca Café | 6 p.m.
OLD MAN CRAZY @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
THURSDAY, JAN. 19
JERRY SEINFELD @ James Brown Arena | 7 p.m., see the Daily Planner for more information. JAMIE JONES @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m. MATT ACOSTA @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 20
I SEE STARS
MIKE RITCHIE & JOJO WALKER @ The Fox’s Lair | 8 p.m. PAINTEDPOLOOZA @ Sky City 8 p.m., featuring Jerod Gay and Friends, the Kooties, Finster and Pocket the Moon. SHE & SHE AND THE LAROXES @ The Playground | 8 p.m. TX CLERGY @ Joes Underground | 9 p.m. THE BURNING ANGELS @ Stillwater Taproom | 10 p.m. KAYSON LAYNE @ Country Club | 10 p.m. TOYZZ @ Wild Wing Café’ 10:30 p.m. JANUARY BIRTHDAY BASH IN BLUE @ Club Argos | 10:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, JAN. 21
Boom Box @ Soul Bar | 8 p.m.
FRIDAYS LIVE JAZZ FRIDAY @ The Partridge Inn | 10 p.m.
for more info and more events,
visit vergelive.com
TONY WILLIAMS & THE BLUES EXPRESS @ Surrey Tavern 8 p.m. JOYCETTE + DR. BREAD = DANCE! @ Soul Bar | 9 p.m.
JOHN KOLBECK JOHN KOLBECK @ Joe’s Underground | 9:30 p.m. DEBUT OF DREDNECK @ Sky City | 10 p.m. ROSS COPPLEY @ Country Club | 10 p.m. THE LUNATICS @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
SUNDAY, JAN. 22
SABO AND MIKE @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, JAN. 24
John Fisher @ The Fox’s Lair 8 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 25
TFS RAVE
TFS RAVE: FIGHT FOR THE FUTURE @ Sector 7G | 8 p.m. The Fence Sitters with LinearNorth, Polyphase and Number5
MIKE RITCHIE & JOJO WALKER @ The Fox’s Lair | 8 p.m.
JOYCETTE AND DR. BREAD
SATURDAY, JAN. 21 JOYCETTE and DR. BREAD DANCE DANCE DANCE! When DJs Joycette and Dr. Bread combine their mixing prowess, clubbers know it won’t be just another night of mixed-up top 40’s hits. From hip-hop, chill and grime to moombahton, techno and electro, DJs Joycette and Dr. Bread mix together the best underground club music, normally only heard in international cities such as Paris or Los Angeles. @ Soul Bar | 9 p.m.; $3
JARED ASHLEY @ Country Club | 10 p.m. SHOTGUN OPERA + SID ARIAL @ The Playground Bar | 10 p.m. COVER STORY @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, JAN. 28
She-N-She @ The Fox’s Lair 8 p.m.
GARY RAY @ Country Club 10 p.m.
JULIE CLARK SHUBERT
MUSIC WEDNESDAYS: JULIE CLARK SHUBERT @ Manuel’s Bread Café | 5:30 p.m.
STEREOTYPE @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
COMEDY ZONE: JOSH PHILLIPS @ Somewhere in Augusta | 8:00 p.m.; $8
THURSDAY, JAN. 26
OPEN MIC NIGHT @ Sky City 8 p.m. JEFF JOHNSTON @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m. ROLLIN IN THE HAY @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, JAN. 27
Jared Gay @ The Fox’s Lair 8 p.m. DISCO HELL @ Soul Bar | 8 p.m. JARED WADE @ Coyotes 8 p.m.,; $5 after 9.
REPO THE GENETIC OPERA: THE TRIBUTE SHOW @ Sector 7G | 9 p.m., All ages, presented By Misfit Theatre in “Splattervision.” SIBLING STRING @ Stillwater Tap Room | 10 p.m.; $4 FUNK YOU EP RELEASE PARTY @ Surrey Tavern 10 p.m.
FRIDAY, FEB. 3 80’s Night @ Sky City | 8 p.m. IRISH PUB NIGHT WITH GAVIN WINSHIP @ Rose Hill Estate 8 p.m. FALSE FLAG @ The Playground Bar | 10 p.m.
SATURDAY, FEB. 4
DANGERMUFFIN @ Surrey Tavern | 8 p.m. RANDY CARVER @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m.
THE ATOM BLONDES @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m.
SOUP, SUDS & CONVERSATIONS @ The Fox’s Lair | 6 p.m. KARAOKE @ Coyote’s | 8 p.m. $5 after 9 p.m.
JOE OLDS BAND @ Coyotes 8 p.m.
BRANDON HOOKER DUO @ Wild Wing Café | 10:30 p.m.
I SEE STARS + STICK TO YOUR GUNS + OUR LAST NIGHT + MEMPHIS MAY FIRE + MAKE ME FAMOUS @ Sector 7G 6 p.m.
life
THRU feb. 4
ALL GET OUT + MAZES AND MONSTERS + DUTCH ANGLE + RADIO THE CAPTAIN @ Sky City | 10 p.m.
MONDAY, JAN. 30
3 PILL MORNING Read more on page XX. @ The Playground 10 p.m.; $5
TUESDAY, JAN. 31 JAMIE JONES @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1
DICKIE COX @ Manuel’s Bread Café | 5:30 p.m.
THOSE DARLINS THOSE DARLINS + YOUNG GOODMAN BROWN @ Sky City 8 p.m., $8 SIBLING STRING @ Joe’s Underground | 9 p.m.
LERA LYNN
LERA LYNN + SHAUN PIAZZA BAND @ Sky City | 8 p.m.
FIND THE VENUE
the country club @ 2834 Washington Road; 706.364.1862 Coyote’s @ 2512 Peach Orchard Road; 706.560.9245 the fox’s lair @ 349 Telfair St.; 706.828.5600 manuels bread cafe @ 505 Railroad Ave., North Augusta; 803.380.1323 Metro Pub & CoffeeHouse @ 1054 Broad St.; 706.722.6468 THE PLAYGROUND BAR @ 978 Broad St.; 706.724.2232 rOSE hILL eSTATE @ 221 Greenville St. NW, Aiken 803.648.1181 SECTOR 7G @ 631 Ellis St.; 706.496.5900 SKY CITY @ 1157 Broad St.; 706.945.1270 SOUL BAR @ 984 Broad St.; 706.724.8880 Somewhere in augusta @ 2820 Washington Road; 706.739.0002 STILLWATER TAP ROOM @ 974 Broad St.; 706.826.9857 SURREY TAVERN @ 471 Highland Ave.; 706.736.1221 WILD WING CAFE @ 3035 Washington Road.; 706.364.9453 Submit listings to events@vergelive.com for inclusion in Nightlife.
vergelive.com | community driven news | January 18, 2012 31
ask
dr. karp NO-NONSENSE NUTRITION ADVICE
Marion, an AskDrKarp Facebook friend, asks…
What should I eat after open-heart surgery? Thanks for asking this important question, Marion. First, let’s clarify why a person has open-heart surgery. The most common reason to have coronary artery bypass grafting is because of a diseased and blocked coronary artery. This means that healthy arteries or veins are taken from another part of the body and used to go around (bypass) blocked heart arteries. This relieves chest pain and reduces the risk of a heart attack. For the sake of answering your question, I am assuming that this is the reason you had your open-heart surgery and your surgery was not to correct a structural defect in your heart, or to repair a heart valve damaged by an infection or another reason. When you talk about developing hardening of the arteries, diseased or blocked arteries, or high blood cholesterol, lifestyle behavior becomes extremely important. How did you live your life before the surgery? Did you smoke? Did you have a regular, daily exercise routine? Did you have your diabetes, high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol under control, with medications, if necessary? Did you eat high fat, fried or high calorie foods? It is true that the genes you inherited from your parents can influence whether you develop heart disease or diabetes as an adult. However, today, we know that how you live your life is more important than your genetic risk; this is especially true since there are medications around that can effectively help control blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. Nowadays, it is a CHOICE that you make to either lower your risk of heart disease or not. The fact is: If your will is strong enough to change your life after a heart attack or bypass surgery, you can lead a long, healthy, and happy life. But, if you choose not to make important changes, then you are putting yourself at greatly increased risk of further disease. You know, Marion, there are many people in the world who have diseases and conditions that are beyond their ability to affect. Diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, lung cancer – these are diseases in which voluntary CHOICES become very important, but you have to make the right choices. So, there are some important things you must do after open heart surgery, such as getting your blood pressure, blood cholesterol and diabetes under control, not smoking and increasing your physical activity. If I were in your situation, I would enroll in a cardiac rehabilitation program and consider a lifelong maintenance program, especially if you are having difficulty making the important lifestyle changes that you need to make. Speak to your physician about this. While you are enrolled in the cardiac rehabilitation program, you need to have consults with a registered dietitian who will help you and your family figure out the types of foods which are both healthy and ones that you and your family LIKE. No sense telling you about foods you won’t eat, is there? However, you and your family will need to make an effort to develop tastes for healthier foods; that is not the dietitian’s job. Notice, I talk about your family, not just about you. You live and eat with your family and, if you have had open heart surgery, I am willing to bet you that your children are at risk for this as they get older. Heart disease must be approached as a family matter. I would say that the No. 1 thing about eating after open-heart surgery is choosing lower fat, calorie, salt and sugar foods. It means forgetting about soft drinks, hamburger joints, fried chicken places, etc. It also means that you will not, necessarily, be eating less food, just different food. It is amazing how much you can actually eat, if you choose the right foods. You need to eat fruits and veggies: The fruits need to be fresh fruit and the veggies need to be steamed or microwaved, not boiled or fried, and they need to be seasoned with herbs and spices, not fatback, bacon, butter or salt. Avoid high saturated fat cheeses and milk (skim milk is preferred), whole eggs (use egg substitutes), high fat meats, such as chopped meat (choose lean ground meat), chicken wings (eat baked chicken, with the skin removed), and high fat luncheon meats. When you want to eat fast food, go to Subway instead of a burger joint and order the healthy subs on the menu. Cut down on eating high salty snacks (which are usually high in fat and calories, too). You need to eat foods that are rich in fiber and whole grains, such as red beans, black beans, pinto beans and whole grain breads and cereals. So, the no-nonsense nutrition advice today is this: you can lower your risk of having more blocked arteries, more open heart surgery or a heart attack or stroke or diabetes or high blood pressure by the CHOICES you make. So, CHOOSE not to smoke, CHOOSE to take your blood pressure and cholesterol medications as directed by your physician, CHOOSE to get into a maintenance cardiac rehabilitation program, CHOOSE to lose weight, and CHOOSE to eat healthier foods. You will feel alive, less fearful of the future and you will increase your chances of living a long, happy, and healthy life. Ask Dr. Karp focuses on food, diet and nutrition. Dr. Warren Karp is a professor emeritus at Georgia Health Sciences University. If you have a question you would like answered in this column, email him at DrKarp@ vergelive.com, or visit his Facebook page, facebook.com/AskDrKarp or website at sites.google.com/site/drkarpverge.
32 January 18, 2012 | community driven news | vergelive.com
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Edited by Will Shortz | by Jim Hilger | No. 1215 48 Certain joint 49 Wrigley product 51 Certain gifts in “The 12 Days of Across Christmas” 1 Company’s numero 53 Trademarked uno sanitary wipes 7 Bit of dance attire 56 Word with belt or for Fred Astaire tape 10 Elite 58 Michigan college 14 Toyota sedan 59 Boom-causing, 15 Recipient of three perhaps consecutive Hart 64 Fabulist Trophies 65 ___-pitch 16 About 66 What Cowboy 17 Arsenal, so to legend Tom Landry speak sported 19 Opening word of 67 Often-flooded many an Italian locale letter 68 Hit a low point 20 Kind of coach: 69 Starfish or sea Abbr. cucumber, e.g. 21 Reveled in 23 Bypass Down 26 Bitter and sweet 1 Writing in a box 28 Key ___ 29 & 30 They started 2 Many a Monopoly property: Abbr. in 1969 34 Some shot targets 3 Pile 36 User of night vision 4 Following ___ 5 Like the origin 37 One-named pop of the names for star some days of the 38 Oil source week 39 Midnight to 6 Pantry problem 4 a.m., at sea 7 ___ polloi 41 In the 40s? 8 Check 42 Whups 9 Nottingham’s river 44 Debt doc 10 Dish often served 45 Harriet Beecher in a shell Stowe novel 11 “My word!” 46 ___ verte (green 12 To be, at the earth pigment) Louvre 47 Early 26th-century 13 Way less traveled year
Note: Parts of 15 answers in this puzzle are missing, in a manner for you to discover.
face first Negotiating one calamity at a time
“Noooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!” I shriek! I fling myself on the floor and flop around like a suffocating fish. The cause of my grief: The refrigerator is empty and I have to go to the grocery store. “Why? Why!?” I sob like Nancy Kerrigan. I rock back and forth to comfort myself. It doesn’t help. When the dish towel can hold no more tears, I pull myself up by my strappy heels, arm myself with my purse and foray to the jungle to procure food for my family.
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AT THE MARKET
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life
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18 Capital whose name comes from an Algonquin word for “to trade” 22 Jump on a stage 23 Drug drawback 24 1958 hit that won the first-ever Grammy for Song of the Year 25 Rehab candidate 27 Like the highest high 29 Disseminates 31 Fictional plantation owner 32 Kowtows, say 33 One way to ride a horse 35 Port alternative 37 Feng ___ 40 Overindulge 43 Words after count or let 47 “Star Trek” helmsman 50 Painter’s preparation 51 “Check it out” 52 Lyric poem 53 Tire part 54 “The South-Sea House” essayist 55 No friend of the bootlegger 57 “Carmina Burana” composer 60 What a big hand often grabs? 61 Make a little mistake 62 Source of heat 63 Brandy cocktail
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JAN. 18
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The massive doors whoosh open and I am blasted with enough air to inflate a Macy’s balloon. The death grip my hairspray had on my bangs is released. Shoving them out of my eyes, I grab the first shopping cart in a row and tug at it. It remains locked in a love embrace with 13 other carts. I put my foot to the other carts and tug at the first. It wrenches free to the sound of my heel breaking off my shoe. I wobble to the left and the cart wobbles to the right. We wobble to the produce section narrowly missing a cardboard display of instant hot chocolate and a 400-pound man on a shopping scooter. I reach for a tasty looking head of lettuce and the automatic watering system soaks my right arm. Sigh. I didn’t want salad anyway. I only buy it so other people in the store think I am healthy. I skip the produce section and head for the part of the store that has the yummy food. A family reunion of long lost relatives has broken out in front of the meat counter. Fifteen people round and they are blocking the hamburger meat. How badly do I want hamburgers? They erupt into boisterous laughter so loud car alarms in the parking lot sound. I really like hamburgers. I wade in, pressing between two women whose upper arms have more meat than the counter behind them. Tactical error. I am crushed between them as they hug. I wriggle free and leap for the ground beef, scrambling through the press of bodies and narrowly avoiding death by asphyxiation. Gasping for air, I press on to the frozen foods/beer section
A Personal Challenge from A Girls on the Run Volunteer “This year I’m going to turn over a new leaf.”
and stock up on pizzas and cases of Michelob Ultra to compensate for the lettuce I am not buying. I am health conscious like that. A well-to-do-woman in sparkling ballet slippers and matching hat looks over the contents in my cart and sneers. Her cart is full of tofu. She might know how to land a doctor but she doesn’t know much about eating tasty foods (or shoes). I smirk at her. I wobble to the check out. An aging man in khaki shorts, a polo shirt and a cowboy hat watches me as I use the self-scan. “You gonna drink all that beer?” he asks me. “I’m not buying it to look at it, sir,” I retort. He chuckles. He has no teeth and his sweat smells of malt liquor. “Can I come over and help you drink it?” he leers at me greasily. “Only if you can talk my husband out of his share.” He vanishes. $400 and my left arm later, I deposit the groceries in my car and drive home. Once there, I fling myself in the floor and weep. Now I have to put the groceries away. Nora Blithe is the author of Door In Face, a humor blog about all things that lay you flat. Read more at doorinface.com.
a parting shot
This phrase is so easy to say on New Year’s Day. But what happens days, weeks or a few months after that one well-intentioned day? Let me throw out a plan of action that will change your life – while also changing another’s, someone who doesn’t realize the long-term effect you can have on her life: Girls on the Run. Girls on the Run coaches are usually more amazed by the change in their lives that they cannot believe the equally amazing impact it has on the girls. As a coach, for 10 weeks, twice a week, you will gain the girls’ trust as you create a fun and uplifting atmosphere that inspires the girls to enjoy running. In the end, you will help build the girls’ self-esteem by educating through each planned lesson, which works to inspire them to live healthy lives. Girls on the Run of the CSRA is looking for coaches for the spring season. We need female head coaches and male assistant coaches, especially for the Boys and Girls Club locations. Training for new coaches will be held on Feb 11 and the season begins the following week and runs through the first week in May. A 5K Celebration Run will be held on May 5. For more information, email Stephany Futch White at girlsontherunofthecsra@yahoo.com. by HEATHER RANKIN
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