November Issue A 2012

Nov. 7, 2012

FREE

vol. 5 no. 16 community driven news

Holiday Hunger YOU WON’T BELIEVE WHO NEEDS HELP

SEE ARTICLE ON PAGEs 9 & 11

photo by sofia colton photography

+ VIEWS REGENCY MALL + VIBE GUITAR PULL + VITTLES CHEF TRAINING + VALUES 5th anniversary

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Miracle Mile Walk

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he 12th Annual Miracle Mile Walk took place at the Augusta Common, Oct. 20, drawing around 9,000 people and 450 breast cancer survivors to raise money and awareness about the number one cancer in women.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event, around $375,000, went to University Hospital’s Breast Health Center to help women in the CSRA receive free mammograms.

“One in eight women will get breast cancer at some point in their lifetime,” said Pam Anderson, program coordinator for University Hospital’s breast health center. “200,000 women get breast cancer every year and it is the number one cancer in women. The key to survival is early detection, and one of the best ways of doing that is through regular mammograms. Mammograms are covered by insurance, but if someone doesn’t have insurance then we can pay for it out of this program.”

The Mobile Mammography Unit began its service in December 2002 and has provided more than 35,000 mammograms and detected 126 breast cancers to date. A large number of these mammograms are provided free to under-served women and are a vital tool in the early detection and fight against breast cancer.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit themiraclemilewalk.org.

by Christopher Selmek

NEW MOON COMING CAMERA READY

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what’sinside

you won’t want to miss a page

Learn how one local organization helps to end hunger in our community (Golden Harvest Food Bank), discover what’s new in the techie world (Tech Talk), take a look at the fate of Regency Mall (Hudson Hears) and get legal insight from a local attorney (PJ Campanaro).

15 vibe

Plan your activities around the best calendar in the CSRA, the Daily Planner, and learn about cool music (Little Big Town, Lokal Loudness and Coco’s Q&A with Morgan Parham). Also, find out what’s going on in CSRA Nightlife and in local theatre (Behind the Curtain).

29 vittles

Try a new recipe for fall (Seasonal Bites), experience an unbiased review of an long-time Aiken dive (City Billiards) and learn about the plans for a new culinary school in Augusta (Helms College).

35 values

Hear what’s been going on in the health community of the CSRA (Here’s to Your Health), laugh out loud with Nora’s “Life Face First”, learn a lesson through local sports (AB Sports) and be inspired by Steve Swanson’s Faith Story.

12,000 copies of Verge are published on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.

Copies are available FREE of charge at locations throughout the CSRA including Publix, Kroger and Earth Fare and 160 plus other locations in the CSRA. Of the 12,000 total circulation---4,000 of the copies are now direct mailed.

Verge is a publication of Buzz on Biz, LLC, whose offices are at 3740 Executive Center Drive, Suite 300, Martinez, GA 30907. Reach us at 706.261.9981 or email staff members below in regards to story ideas, events listings, advertising inquiries or letters to the editor.

vergestaff yeah, we made this

EDITORIAL: president/executive editor Neil Gordon neil.gordon@buzzon.biz editor Jennifer Pruett jennifer.pruett@comcast.net primary writer Christopher Selmek events editor Sarah Childers events@vergelive.com

photography melissa@ sofiacolton.com, John Robeson, and Christopher Selmek PUBLISHING: group publisher Matt Plocha publisher@vergelive.com graphic design opendoorgraphicdesign.com sales Buddy Miller buddy.miller@buzzon.biz, Matt Plocha, Neil Gordon

vergeconnect we want to hear from you

call us: 706.951.0579 email us: advertising & general stuff publisher@vergelive.com story tips, ideas and letters editor@vergelive.com free event listings events@vergelive.com find us online: vergelive.com

distribution Matt Plocha, Christopher Selmek, Buddy Miller

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ad space

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AROUND TOWN

LIVING HISTORY PARK / PG 7

TECH TALK

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

PJ SPEAKS

DIVORCE DEALINGS

/ PG 11

/ PG 13

REGENCY MALL WHAT’S HER FUTURE?

HUDSON HEARS | See Below for Story

photography by sofia colton photography

A

ugusta Commissioner Bill Lockett is the latest public official to get a bee in his bonnet over one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, the former Regency Mall. The crumbling building has been the anchor of blight in South Augusta for the better part of two decades and remains today an ugly relic that looms over Gordon Highway.

What was celebrated as the largest mall complex in Georgia when it opened in 1978, Regency Mall is now Augusta’s constant reminder of excess and failure. The simple fact is that the mall never should have been built in the first place. To begin with, the developers should have known that the joys of consumerism might be dampened by having the mother ship parked next to a bone yard. The mall was also built during a time when urban flight was in full swing and there was no indication that the trend would reverse itself any time soon.

Unlike Augusta Mall that has survived by constantly reinventing itself, the owners of Regency Mall never undertook any type of renovations or upgrades on the building. The same gaudy orange façade tiles and drab brown carpet remains long after bell bottoms and pet rocks went out of style.

Security was also a nightmare at Georgia’s largest mall. For years mall goers complained about the roving bands of gang members wandering around sans shopping bags and asked for more security in the facility’s large parking lot. Fears turned to terror in 1986 when 16-year-old Aleta Bunch was kidnapped in broad daylight in front of witnesses in the mall parking lot. Her body was found 11 days later and 17-year-old Alexander Williams was later found guilty of kidnapping, murder and rape.

By the time of Aleta’s murder, the mall was already in decline although it had only been in operation for eight years. The murder sealed Regency Mall’s fate. One by one the small retailers moved out, the cinema was shuttered and finally the anchor stores gave up and relocated. By 1991, the mall was a shell.

Today it sits empty, and its parking is blocked to thru traffic. Throughout the years plenty of suggestions for the mall’s rehab have floated around; it could be repurposed as a combined judicial and city administrative center or a satellite location for a college -- even continued on page 13

new topnotch coming

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word on the street WHAT WE HEAR BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

DAILY DEALS A DAILY STRUGGLE?

O

kay, I know in some sense Buzz on Biz, LLC is a competitor of Morris Communications. We both sell advertising in the same market. So I shouldn’t be talking “bad” about them in this newspaper. I’m actually a fan of their content and like some folks who still work there; and heck, I have even hired a few former Morris sales executives. What I don’t understand is what on earth is going on with their Daily Deals program. Morris is on their 3rd manager of the program since early August!

During this time they have also made changes to the concept and software and let go of a sales representative. In full disclosure, I brokered a deal for a client with Daily Deals that was initially successful -- hundreds of certificates bought.

The word on the street is there’s confusion about how much merchants should get as their share of the discounted certificates. Many retailers and restaurateurs who used to generate thousands of dollars are not renewing. Why? Daily Deals and other competitors like Groupon or Living Social or TV discounted programs are starting to lose their luster much like national grocery couponers.

My client will not be part of Daily Deals again because he feels those redeeming the certificates are loyal to the program and not his stores -- meaning, the next competitor with a similar discount will get their repeat business, not him.

At press time, Morris sent out an email announcing that merchants will no longer pay any in fees—now a full 50-50 split. Maybe this step will move them in the right direction. article by Neil Gordon

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smatterings

Daylight Saving Time: “Fall Back” Position

B

enjamin Franklin first made mention of daylight saving time in 1784 to the French. He jokingly proposed that Parisians wake up earlier in the summer to save on candle use and instead utilize daylight. Little did he know back then how things would turn out.

As we get into the full swing of autumn, it is hard to believe that it is already November.

Football season is on its final stretch, Halloween has come and gone. We turn our attention to Thanksgiving and Christmas. Downtown Augusta has already started hanging Christmas decorations. In the pages ahead, we highlight how you can help those who are less fortunate during the holiday season with a feature on the Golden Harvest Food Bank – who it is, what it does and how it positively impacts our community.

This year November has five Thursdays – the last time that has happened was in 2007.

Remember, Thanksgiving falls in the fourth Thursday of the month, so this year it is Nov. 22. It seems so far away, but before you know it Black Friday will be upon us. Remember to support your local business owners and merchants again this year. It’s time to put on the rally caps and show support for local shop owners.

The economic impact of choosing to do your holiday shopping at locally owned businesses is huge, not only for local business owners but for our area. There have been some encouraging signs out there over the past 10 months. Several social media sites have sprung up, apps are being made for local economies, such as Rely Local campaigns. These are designed to help you navigate your community. It warms the depths of my heart to see other media sources “getting” the importance of our local economy and supporting local business owners – a mission Verge has been on since 2008.

In our Oct. 17 issue, we made note of a new restaurant opening soon in downtown Augusta and the headline we chose left open a little too much for interpretation. It was not our intention to dismiss another business in the district with such exceptional standing in our community since 1949. I speak of Luigi’s Restaurant, owned and operated by the Ballas family for three generations in the same location. Luigi’s has been a downtown staple, endured several economic cycles and seen the good, the bad and the ugly – and it is still standing tall as an Augusta favorite. We salute Luigi’s and the Ballas family for the energy, vision and commitment to downtown and all of Augusta!

As you get out the sweaters, warm up the hot chocolate and begin to decorate for your own holiday season, remember to think local first. Shop in your local community and the season will be very bright!

Who has the marshmallows for the cocoa?

Matt

around town

A Look At Things To Do

Living History Park presents “Under the Crown”

N

orth Augusta’s Living History Park presented the 21st annual Colonial Times: A Day to Remember, Oct. 20-21, which offered guests an opportunity to understand what daily life was like for the people who settled in the Augusta area.

  

   

  

  

This free, family oriented event on eight acres, kept historically accurate by the Old Town Preservation Association, was named one of the top 20 events in the southeast by the Southeastern Tourism Society in 2000, 2001 and 2004. In addition to several historical actors, including Benjamin Franklin, Lt. Col. Thomas Brown and the slave Kessie, the event featured demonstrations in pottery, weaving, spinning and much more.

Sunday also featured a traditional 18th century Anglican worship service held in the meeting house and a Colonial Dance demonstration. A call to arms went out for perspective members of the Olde Towne Militia, which meets on the last Saturday of each month and performs demonstrations and skirmishes echoing what militia life was like between 1760 and 1783.

“If we didn’t remember these times, there would be a king and queen instead of a president,” said Lynn Thompson, president of the Old Town Preservation Association. “It was the battle for our country’s freedom, and it was fought by men, women and children right here in North Augusta. If we can educate the public or one child and get them to have an interest in what we do, then all the work we do to host this event was worth it.”

For more information about events going on at Living History Park, call 803.979.9776 or visit www.colonialtimes.us.

by Christopher Selmek

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GOLDEN HARVEST FOOD BANK

Helping Change lives

“Masters table” photography by sofia colton photography

T

here is a misconception that everybody in need is homeless.

That’s not true,” says Travis McNeal, who took over as executive director of the food bank in June 2012. He has worked with Golden Harvest for three and a half years. In that time period, he has seen how the face of hunger has changed and how critical the food bank’s work is, not only in the immediate area, but in outlying rural counties and across demographics, from school children spending weekends without meals to seniors whose meager funds can barely cover utilities and medication, much less a grocery bill.

“Two years ago, E-Z Go sent us one of their high-level contractors, a gentleman with a master’s degree, to assist us with logistics — pulling and shipping our orders. He was our project manager, and we did not know that he was in need. He worked for us for a small stipend, and eventually confessed to a few of us that he was about to lose his house, could barely pay for his car, and was getting his food from Columbia County Cares. An operations executive from, I believe, Proctor & Gamble, volunteered with us when we were building a garden area behind the Master’s Table. He lost his job. Four weeks ago, I visited the Master’s Table and he was in the dining area. He had lost everything.”

“People in need are no longer the individuals you think of, the stereotype of someone pushing a shopping cart and sleeping in the street. It’s suburban America, people on the brink of disaster, or people who have lost their jobs and their homes. They live in cars, they may or may not have jobs, the children may or may not attend school.”

“A lot of people see things one way and look through rosy glasses — the only glasses they’ve ever looked through. They can’t see how a person can’t get themselves back up and where they need to be. It’s because they have no safety nets, no family or friends to help them, no support. People need to open their eyes and think spiritually. This only stops when one person helps another who helps another.”

Golden Harvest Food Bank began in downtown Augusta

when leaders from local churches began gathering to assist the hungry. Unemployment had spiked to 10 percent and needs were increasing. “It was similar to what’s happening now,” he says. “There will always be people in need, regardless of whether we’re at 5 percent, but at times when unemployment goes up, the needs become more prevalent and easier to see. That’s what we’re experiencing now, and that’s how the food bank started.

Their mission was basic: to help meet the needs of people in this area who were hungry, struggling, and asking churches for food.”

The organization’s first direct service program was the Master’s Table, a soup kitchen on Fenwick Street. Initially, local churches would host meals on their sites, seven days a week; the centralized location that opened in the 1990s made it possible for those in need to gather in one place, with church teams arriving daily to cook and serve.

Two years ago, the soup kitchen moved into a new home on Fenwick Street. The facility has heating and air conditioning, as well as a covered courtyard, and seats 150 people at once. “When people walk in, they feel like they’re being honored,” says McNeal. “At the previous location, we could only seat 35 at a time. They were rushed in and rushed out. Now, they get to sit down at beautiful round tables. It’s like being in a nice restaurant.”

Golden Harvest is part of Feeding America, the largest organization and national network of 203 food banks. Feeding America assigns counties to each food bank; Golden Harvest covers 19 in Georgia and 11 in South Carolina. Through Feeding America, which tracks unemployment and poverty, and thus the hunger rate, in every county across the U.S., each food bank has exact statistics and projected numbers of people in need per county. “We all have strict rules under Feeding America to keep people safe, make sure that food is handled correctly, warehoused according to standards, and that it’s brought in and shipped properly,” says McNeal. continued on page 11

Two Special Groups, Two Special Programs The Backpack Program:

“The first place where you see great need is in the schools,” says McNeal. “Some children leave school on Friday and may not eat again until they come back on Monday. This is a serious epidemic across America. Statistics tell us that 50 million people do not have sufficient food every day. That’s one in four children. Without proper nutrition, education suffers because children cannot learn. The Backpack Program serves children in grades 1 through 5. On Fridays, children in need go home with a 4- or 5-pound zip-lock bag filled with breakfast items, pop-top meals, fruit cups and beverages. Our program has grown to 3000 backpacks per week in Georgia and South Carolina.”

Senior Food Boxes:

Of all the groups in need, seniors are the most overlooked and underserved. They are the invisible hungry and poor. The Senior Food Box program provides a large box of food, once a month, generally via senior adult centers and churches that have senior ministries. “This is not the program that donors designate first when they visit our donation page,” McNeal agrees. “Right now, we serve about 1500 seniors. It troubles me more than anything. It nags at me all the time.

How do we find seniors in need, alone in their homes, barely hanging on? Who finds them? How do we get the food to them? What if they can’t come to a church or pantry to get their food? It’s my fear, I know it’s the truth, and I don’t know how to fix it. Seniors are probably struggling more than anyone else. Churches and whatever groups there are have to get out there and connect with real people. ‘Find them, feed them, fill them’ — that’s my motto.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION: visit their website at www.goldenharvest.org HOW TO HELP: contact Golden Harvest at 706.736.1199

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 9

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golden harvest

tech talk

continued from page 9

McNeal follows in the footsteps of former executive director Michael Firmin. “Golden Harvest is a faith-based organization, so we believe that God has a plan,” says McNeal. “He has always been faithful to provide for Golden Harvest through food, money and the correct staffing. Mr. Firmin had prayed for five years that God would show him who should succeed him here. He came to me one day and told me that I was supposed to be the person. I’ve been in ministry all my life; my calling was to ministry. I worked in a local church for over twenty years, and this is just another step and another extension of that ministry as we continue to step out in faith.”

Under Firmin’s direction, Golden Harvest built a strong foundation, allowing its new director to ease into his role knowing that no major changes were needed in order to take the food bank to the next level. “I’ve had three years to walk and sit beside the person who founded the organization,” says McNeal.

“I’m able to share and hang on to the strengths that Michael Firmin brought, but also during those three years I had open ears and an open mind that showed me areas where I felt that we could grow. I believe one of the most valuable resources we have are the employees. We are pouring a lot of energy, time and effort into the people who work here. We’re improving communication, which ultimately will improve what we do, which will make what we do and how we do it more effective, which will trickle down into a positive effect on the community and the people that we serve.

We could not feed one person without over 303 partner agencies. Most of ours are churches, soup kitchens and community centers that serve the food. They are the ones on the frontlines, interfacing with those in need every day. The better that we meet our agencies’ needs, executive Director Travis McNeal the better that the hunger needs can be met. We have 5000 people in our volunteer database. We have about 50 employees. Our vision is to step up our excellence, which we’ve done by hiring two human resources department leaders. We also have a business department, and an outreach programs department for programs like the soup kitchen, the backpack program and the senior food box program.”

From grants to donations, food drives to individual food drops, every canned good, every cereal box, every pack of cold cuts makes a difference in someone’s life. Donations are the lifeblood of Golden Harvest and an integral part of those 14 million pounds of food. “The community is how we have been able to grow and feed more people from day one,” says McNeal.

“Our tagline, our mission and everything we live by here is ‘Feeding lives together.’ The ‘together’ part is really big for us. It says everything about who we are. The largest amounts of our donations come from individual persons. Those gifts are where the majority of our budget comes from. It’s people caring about people. The longer we’ve been present, the more the awareness has grown and our staff has grown to spread our mission deeper in our counties.” article by ALISON RICHTER

Smart Holiday Shoppers’ Secret Weapons N

ow that Halloween is in the rearview mirror, it’s that time again -- time to start thinking about Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday -- the traditional kickoff to the Holiday shopping madness (oh, did I forget to mention Thanksgiving is in there somewhere?). Well this season a wealth of mobile apps are helping shoppers find the merchandise they want at the lowest prices available — whether in bricks-and-mortar stores or online.

There are dozens of apps that compare prices using bar-code-scanning technology, including apps from TheFind.com, PriceGrabber, Pic2Shop, and the aptly named Barcode Scanner from ZXing Team -- all free. The idea is simple: Aim your phone’s camera at an item’s bar code, and the app tells you whether you can get it cheaper at nearby stores or online.

Say you find a chair at Office Depot but you leave because the ShopSavvy bar-codescanning app on your mobile phone found the same chair for about $20 less at a nearby Target store. ShopSavvy’s app and another popular bar-code-scanning app, eBay’s RedLaser, both of which are free, are among those that not only allow shoppers to check prices, but also make it easy to purchase items from select websites using your phone. With Amazon.com’s free Price Check app, you can compare the company’s prices to those at other retailers by scanning bar codes, taking photos of products or entering voice or text searches. If it turns out Amazon has the best buy, you can also make the purchase through the app.

Shoppers can also use a variety of apps to earn cash or other rewards. When you scan a bar code with the Smoopa app, free from Smoopa Inc., and enter the price of the item and the location of the store, it shows you comparison prices and sometimes gives you a bonus — a credit that can be redeemed in cash or applied to gift cards or charitable donations.

An app called Shopkick, free from Shopkick Inc., rewards customers with ‘kicks’ or points, just for entering participating stores, in addition to helping them find the cheapest prices at area retailers. Users of the app also are credited with kicks when they buy items in store. The points can be redeemed for discounts at a list of retailers including Old Navy and American Eagle Outfitters.

It looks like the prolific growth of mobile phones and other portable devices may permanently change our shopping habits and help us be better shoppers to boot, which may mean saving some big bucks during this holiday season!

KEVIN WADE is the CEO and “techspert” for Intellisystems, a small business I.T department for area companies. He works with them to prevent network failure, data loss, or backup disasters and provides technology advice to keep clients and the community informed. Intellisystems is located in the Alley in Aiken, in Columbia at the Atrium on Stoneridge Drive, and in downtown Augusta. For more info, visit intellisytems.com

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 11

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Qualified individuals with interest and capabilities to grow business and people to their full potential should send their resume and letter of interest to the attention of: Laine Dreher Vice-President Human Resources 5171 Eisenhower Parkway Macon, Georgia 31206 ldreher@helms.edu www.edgarshospiality.com www.helms.edu

crime and punishment

hudson hears continued from page 5

Is anything private anymore?

photography by sofia colton photography

Tear Down This Mall!

public housing was considered. The problem is, not only is the building riddled with mold, but also what was once it’s claim to fame is now its biggest liability; the complex is simply too big to be anything but a mall. The building has no windows, so loft apartments are off the table. No college has ever shown any interest in the building; Augusta has a new Judicial Center, Sheriff ’s administration building and the Marble Palace downtown is in great shape for a 50 year old building. There simply is no use for the cavernous structure.

So why doesn’t the city simply take Bill Lockett’s suggestion to condemn the building and raze it to the ground? The answer is simple: If you look up and down Gordon Highway you can see many structures that are in far worse shape than the mall. There are factories that closed down before most of our lifetimes that remain as death traps for anyone daring to enter, and it is likely that Regency Mall will suffer the same fate, at least for now.

The Georgia Constitution was amended years ago to rein in the abuse of imminent domain.

Before the amendment big box stores would roll into a city and demand that areas be condemned so they could plop down a Super Wal-Mart in what was once a residential neighborhood.

Nowadays if a city wants to condemn a property they can, but the property cannot be used for commercial purposes for 30 years. That means the property is taken off the tax digest and the taxpayers end up owning land they don’t need and can’t use. After all, a public park next to a cemetery is no better an idea than a mall next to one.

South Augustans might as well get used to the fact that there is no commercial interest in the property and no public use for it either. So it likely will for decades in the future sit atop the hill crumbling, its hulk frowning down over the city.

Residents in the future may quote Shirley Jackson from The Haunting of Hill House that, “whatever walked there, walked alone”.

scott hudson freelances for WGAC and is a local paralegal. Submit comments to scott@wgac.co

I

n addition to handling criminal cases throughout the years, I have also the pleasure of handling divorce cases. Before I ventured into this realm of family law, I heard the old adage that individuals going through divorce are generally good people at the worst times of their lives, and that is absolutely true -- normal people acting absolutely crazy!!!

Adding to the craziness that is family law are the somewhat new issues of privacy and technology. This adds many more layers of complication to already unfortunate situations.

Most recently a judge in a Divorce and Custody case signed an Ex Parte order (an order signed with regard to another party without that party present) for the forensic evaluation of a client’s cell phone. In most cases ex parte communications are not allowed because they can be unfair and violate due process; however, in this case it was allowed. My client had to fork over her cell phone for forensic evaluations or be faced with a contempt of court.

That meant that her husband, through the courts, had access to all text messages, internet searches, e-mails, calendar entries and the cornucopia of other information that one stores on their phone.

Was my client a criminal? Was their a search warrant?

Absolutely not, this was a client in a divorce case not a defendant in a criminal case. Even recent criminal rulings have held that there must be probable cause (a level of reasonable belief, based on facts that can be articulated) to dig into suspected criminals’ cell phones -and this case involved a soccer mom.

Augusta is not alone in its willingness to invade privacy. A recent case in Connecticut ordered that parties exchange their Facebook passwords and freeze all account activity in a divorce case.

The Official Code of Georgia Annotated criminalizes the use of any device in recording conversations, be it text or otherwise, but it seems that the courts have decided that invasion of privacy laws don’t really count when it comes divorce. After all, all is fair in love and war, right?

PJ Campanaro has been practicing law since 1999, specializing in violent crime, DUI, custody and child support. She is a member of the Augusta Bar and former Chief Solicitor General. If you have comments or story ideas contact P.J at pjcampanarolaw@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 13

14 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

Daily planner Whats going on

/ PG. 20

film reel abe lincoln

/ PG. 22

Behind the curtain political theatrics

/ PG.26

Concert Benefits Local Kids

See Below for Story

Courtesy of James Minchin III

T

he annual KICKS 99 Guitar Pull returns to the James Brown Arena on November 20. The event is the largest annual concert in the CSRA, with proceeds donated to the Million Pennies for Kids Campaign, an organization that works with the United Way.

these families to receive help that they never thought they would need.”

The Guitar Pull brings in the largest single local donation each year to the United Way. This year’s line-up includes Luke Bryan, Billy Currington, Brantley Gilbert, Little Big Town, Lee Brice and American Idol’s Lauren Alaina.

Million Pennies for Kids helps qualifying area families with children with prescription and emergency assistance, as well as providing Christmas help. Through their partnership with KICKS 99, the program is able to serve more people in need.

Little Big Town’s new album, Tornado, has spent several weeks at the top of the Billboard Country Albums Chart. The band, which consists of Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman and Jimi Westbrook, has been together for 13 years and sold almost 2 million records, in addition to multiple Grammy, CMA and ACM nominations.

Jimi Westbrook spoke to Verge about the band’s journey and how they’ve grown.

“This has been especially beneficial during the economic downturn,” said Brooke Steele, Community Impact Director, CSRA United Way. “A lot of people who were giving are now the ones in need. The funds from Million Pennies for Kids allow

continued on page 17

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 15

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little big town

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

Verge: You all had previous experience prior to starting this band. What were some of the lessons learned that helped strengthen this group and prepare you to take the next step?

Westbrook: From the time I sang my first solo in church when I was probably 12 years old, I was bitten by the bug. From that point on, I never wanted to do anything else.

For me, it was always just taking the next opportunity to sing in front of someone and always trying to take those strides forward to find a place to sing, to make a music career. It was small increments, but I always knew that I had to take the next opportunity. That’s been the case for all of us and it’s still the same: striving every day and not being satisfied with OK and “just getting by.” It’s striving to be great at something.

We’re fighters, and we’re always trying to be better musicians and writers and better people. Those are things I learned along the way that continue to be reinforced within this band.

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Verge: Little Big Town has been through so much, personally and professionally. Were you ever close to calling it a day?

Westbrook: None of us ever looked at each other and said that. I’m sure it’s normal to go through hard times and kind of doubt where you are and what’s going on and say, “Can I really do this?” But there’s never been a time that anyone in this band looked at the others and said, “I don’t know that I can do this anymore,” which I think is pretty amazing.

We’ve gone through some really hard times on a personal level, one in particular is when Kimberly lost her husband a few years ago. He died at such a young age, and even in that time Kimberly never said, “I’m not sure I’m going to do this.” Maybe some of us wondered if this would cause the band to break apart — not that it wouldn’t be justified, going through an unbelievably painful thing — but she never did and we never did. I think we’ve always felt like we had more to give and there were things that people hadn’t heard from this band that we wanted them to hear. We walked through those times together. Those are moments that you usually walk through with family, and I think because we’ve done that with each other, it’s made us like family. We huddled together, put our arms around each other and loved each other through it, and I think that’s gotten us to where we are.

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Verge: While artists in other genres are plagued with illegal downloading, ringtones and people buying individual songs, you’ve sold almost 2 million records. Is country music the last bastion of record sales?

Westbrook: It seems to be the format that continues to sell records. I don’t know why that is. I do know that country music is driven by the songs. I think there’s probably a core of what the material is about, which is family and love and the ups and downs of life, and I think that resonates with people. Maybe the melodic sense of the song has been lost in some genres, and people are finding that in country music and that’s why the genre is gaining more fans. They’re finding

what’s been missing and they’re buying whole records. The experience is sitting down with a whole body of work. People are buying more singles, but hopefully that’s a cyclical thing and it will come back around. There is an underground resurgence of vinyl that’s interesting to me. My nephew bought a record player, and he and his friends are into buying and listening to records and that’s cool. It shows you that it does shift and change, but it comes back to the things that were great — sitting down with records and it being a musical experience. I hope that will come back around.

FA

Verge: Four vocalists, four writers — is there a natural groove in terms of how songs are created and ideas are presented?

Westbrook: There’s this system, I guess you would say, that has emerged, and it’s become easier. You don’t have to think about it as much. At the same time, being four individuals, there’s growth that happens and you navigate it differently; but it’s a good relationship still and continues to grow. A lot of times, especially when you write with someone new, they think, Oh my gosh; I’m going to write with four people and it’s going to be awful, this is too many cooks in the kitchen! But it doesn’t really work like that. There’s a respect level amongst the four of us and no egos. There’s a natural relationship that helps the whole process to work, and it’s a lot of fun. It’s satisfying.

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NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 17

6 degrees ad build instruction coming thursday

18 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

beers locals like

PRESENTED BY

JOIN OUR RACE TO END DOMESTIC VIOLENCE The Jingle Jam 10K’s 10K goal is to promote healthy lifestyles through fitness while furthering the mission of SafeHomes, Inc. The Jingle Jam is a Christmas-themed road race featuring music, a costume contest and an appearance bySanta himself.

Chip timers will be provided to process times in real-time along with jingle bells so runners can “jingle all the way” to the finish line!

RACE DAY

PACKET PICKUP

NOV 30

12-8P · SAVANNAH RAPIDS PAVILION

DEC 1

8AM · EVANS TOWNE CENTER PARK

BENEFITING

vittles

A

s we ease past Hallow’s Eve into the season of thankfulness and (hopefully) cooler weather, let’s all take time to be gracious for the fall harvest. Of course I’m talking about those ever aromatic, tangible and delectable harvests of hops and malts. If Demeter has her way yet again, autumn will yield a plentiful and bountiful array of dark brews that we can sip on while wearing our vintage tweed coats and discussing the categorical imperatives of Kant as we sit on the rocking chairs outside of the Stillwater Taproom. In case you can’t tell, fall is truly my season for brews, and this fall is no different. Enjoy the selections below. You won’t regret it.

Rogue Hazelnut Brown Nectar -- You can enjoy this moderate brown ale from a 22-ounce bottle from Aficionado’s or (and who knows for how long) on draught at the Mellow Mushroom on Broad Street. The hazelnut makes it just sweet enough to let you know it’s there, but the bitterness of a dark chocolate hint relaxes that sweet savor just in time for another sip. I think this brew is excellent out of the bottle, but you should really try it on draught if you have the chance. It would do well to compliment a tempeh hoagie on French bread from the Shroom.

Scarecrow Ale -- An English Pale Ale from the United Kingdom’s Wychwood Brewery, this relatively mellow brew pours a nice amber with a mild / moderate head. There’s a subtle earthy graininess to the nose, but the first aspect of the taste is definitely that of toasty malts, albeit followed by a relatively benign hoppy nibble at the end. Overall, this is an unassuming ale is perfectly nice to have when you want to wind down with something docile and know exactly what you’re getting -- try it.

Dogfish Head Chicory Stout -- As you all know, I’m a huge fan of Delaware’s Dogfish Head Brewery, and Chicory Stout is another big score for their brewmasters. It pours a very dark brown (not unlike fresh coffee) but with a subtle cream-colored head that brings cappuccino to mind. Ok, so that’s easy to say, considering the word ‘chicory’ is in the name, and there are coffee beans all over the bottle label. However, that doesn’t make it any less true.

The chicory remains afoot in the taste, and a subtle sweet hint of cocoa doesn’t interfere too much. The finish is polished and clean, so you might try this brew with roasted chicken (or turkey, for that matter – hint, hint).

These and more can be found at Aficionado’s Downtown on Eighth Street. Or “like” them on Facebook Facebook.com/aficionadosaugusta.

Ben Casella wishes you and yours a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Don’t get too “stuffed”!

ALSO SPONSORED BY:

R E G I S T E R A T R A C E I T. C O M

NEAPOLITAN CUPCAKE & GIFT SHOPPE • EVANS FITNESS CLUB • CHICK-FIL-A WFXG FOX 54 • PHOENIX PRINTING • SUPER GINORMOUS • COLUMBIA COUNTY • GHSU KELLY’S PROMOTIONS • THE SINGING PRINCESSES • WINDSOR FINE JEWELERS

BEN CASELLA Ben Casella does enjoy soccer. He’s just jealous

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON REGISTERING OR VOLUNTEERING, PLEASE VISIT

of those who can still run around a field for 90 minutes without stopping.

WWW.JINGL EJ A M1 0K .C OM

R E G I S T E R A T R A C E I T. C O M

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 19

featured events

vibe

Snapdragon & Livingroom Legends at Sky City S

napdragon got back together just for fun a couple years ago to do a memorial concert at the Riverwalk Amphitheatre and last year played the main stage at Arts in the Heart.

“The reunion bug had officially bit,” said Tara Scheyer. “We had so much fun, we decided to get together once a year and brush off the old songs”.

The band was offered a couple big shows this year, but they decided to go with a more intimate setting. They’ll perform at Sky City on Saturday Nov 10 for an early, non-smoking show. They’ll share the stage with old friends Livingroom Legends. Livingroom Legends will take the stage at 9:00 p.m, with Snapdragon following at 10:00 p.m.

Throughout the years, lots of different musicians made up Snapdragon (including the original crew from Hattiesburg, MS, where Tara first started the band in college at USM). For this show the lineup is: Tara Scheyer, Erin Jacobs, Kevin Scheyer, Ronnie Hill, Travis Petrea, with guest star David Swanigan.

The band couldn’t be more excited about this performance at Sky City. Tara said, “It will be a nice break from my real life of teaching music in schools, teaching piano lessons, and rocking the toddler set.” Her band, Tara Scheyer and the Mudpuppy Band is an Augusta-area favorite with kids of all ages.

by Jennifer Pruett

daily planner 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.

+ WEDNESDAY

11.7

COMMUNITY NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY The

Association of Fundraising Professionals will present awards in recognition of National Philanthropy Day. Augusta Country Club; noon; 655 Milledge Rd.; 762.333.2374 AFPCSRA.AFPNET.ORG CONCERT UNIVERSITY WIND ENSEMBLE FALL CONCERT USC Aiken’s

Etherredge Center; 7 p.m.; 471 University Pkwy., Aiken; 803.641.3305 USCA.EDU

+ THURSDAY

11.8

ART MORRIS, WEIGLE AND AVRETT OPENING RECEPTION Sacred Heart

Cultural Center; 5 p.m.; free; 1301 Greene St.; 706.826.4700 CONCERT ASU JAZZ ENSEMBLE Under the

THE NUTCRACKER D

ance Augusta will bring the holiday season to life with the 41st annual presentation of the Nutcracker. Ron Colton brought this magical performance to the Augusta Ballet in 1971.

This fun-filled, magical adventure continues to thrill audiences of all ages. The Nutcracker ballet is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the King of Mice” written by E.T.A. Hoffman.

Although what is seen on the stage today is different in detail from the original story, the basic plot remains the same; the story of a young German girl, Clara, who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads.

When Marius Petipa had the idea to choreograph the story into a ballet, it was actually based on a revision by Alexander Dumas, a well known French author. His version reflects more of what we have come to love as the Nutcracker Ballet.

This year’s performances will be at the Imperial Theatre on Friday, November 23 at 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, November 24 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday, November 25 at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the box office by calling 706.722.8341 or online at imperialtheatre.com. Discounted tickets for children are available for matinees, and senior, military and group rates are available for all shows.

by Jennifer Pruett

20 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

direction of Dr. Rob Foster.

Students and faculty admitted free with ID. Maxwell Theatre; 7:30 p.m.; $5; 2500 Walton Way; 706.667.4100

AUG.EDU/PAT

+ FRIDAY

11.9

FESTIVAL CHRISTMAS MADE IN THE SOUTH

Browse countless holiday vendors. Check website for details and hours.

James Brown Arena; Friday through Sunday; 10 a.m.; $6; 601 Seventh St.; 877.4AUGTIX

SPORTS GREAT PUMPKIN CHASE 5K Lake Olmstead;

9 a.m.; $20; 78 Milledge Rd.

ACTIVE.COM HISTORY AUGUSTA AND THE CIVIL WAR SYMPOSIUM SERIES A symposium series

focused on the Civil War’s impact on this city. This year’s theme is “Making War”. Call for schedule, pricing and registration.

Morris Museum of Art; 1 10th St.; 706.823.0440 THEMORRIS.ORG

FOR KIDS WILDERNESS SURVIVAL Backcountry

camping and emergency surviving skills tips; Ages 8 through 18. Pre-registration required. Free for members.

Reed Creek Nature Park and Interpretive Center; 4:30 p.m.; $2; 3820 Park Ln.; 706.210.4027 REEDCREEKPARK.COM

THEATRE “HARVEY” A play

by Mary Chase. Pulitzer Prize winning comedy; Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre; 6:30 p.m.; $25 to $40; 32100 Third Ave.; 706.703.8552 FORTGORDON.COM

CONCERT CANTUS

Recognized as one of America’s finest professional male vocal ensembles. Presented by the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society. Maxwell Theatre; 7:30 p.m.; $7 to $25; 2500 Walton Way; 706.667.4100

HISTORY AUGUSTA AND THE CIVIL WAR SYMPOSIUM SERIES See listing on Nov. 9.

Morris Museum of Art

OUTDOORS AUGUSTA CANAL DISCOVERY WALK

“Color in the Trees.”

Sid Mullis, coordinator of the UGA Extension Service for Richmond County, leads the walking tour. Augusta Canal National Heritage Area; 10 a.m.; $1 or $2; 1450 Greene St.; 706.823.0440 AUGUSTACANAL.COM

HISTORY HISTORIC TROLLEY TOURS OF AUGUSTA A

self-guided tour through the Augusta Museum of History and a driving tour through historic Downtown Augusta. Reservations required at least 24 hours prior. Augusta Visitor Center; 1 p.m.; $12; 560 Reynolds St.; 706.724.4067 AUGUSTAGA.ORG

THEATRE “HARVEY” See listing on Nov. 9. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre; 6:30 p.m.

+ SUNDAY

11.11

AUG.EDU/PAT

THEATRE WAR BONDS | SONGS & LETTERS OF WORLD WAR II A multi-

media living history cabaret interspersed with personal letters from the ‘front’ and headline news of the period. The Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center; 7:30 p.m.; $30 to $35; 7022 Evans Town Center Blvd.; 706.726.0366

+ SATURDAY

11.10

OUTDOORS OKA’CHAFFA INDIAN FESTIVAL Special guests

include swamp life expert Okefenokee Joe and Thunder the buffalo.

Military and veterans free with ID. Phinizy Swamp; Saturday-Sunday; 11 a.m.; $5 to $12; 1858 Lock and Dam Rd.; 706.828.2109

THEATRE THE CHILDREN’S HOUR BY LILLIAN HELLMAN

A senior directing project

by ASU student John Greene. Features ASU students in lead roles and students from the Young Artists Reparatory Theatre in the roles of classroom students. Maxwell Theatre; Thursday-Friday; 7:30 p.m.; free; 2500 Walton Way 706.667.4100 AUG.EDU/PAT

+ WEDNESDAY

11.14

CONCERT USCA CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT Etherredge

Center at USCA; 7 p.m.; 471 University Pkwy., Aiken; 803.641.3305

USCA.EDU

NOVEMBER 7-24 2012

+ THURSDAY

+ SUNDAY

11.15 11.18 11.23 SPORTS SOUL CITY SIRENS ROLLER DERBY vs. New

CONCERT MIDDAY MUSIC SERIES Sponsored by First

Presbyterian Church. Call for reservations, lunch is $9. First Presbyterian Church; noon; concert free; 224 Barnwell Ave. NW, Aiken; 803.648.2662

AIKENPRESBYTERIAN.ORG

River Valley Rollergirls.

This is a family friendly event. Bring a folding chair or blanket; Concessions available. Red Wing Rollerway; 6:30 p.m.; $10 to $15; 3065 Washington Rd.; 803.295.9618 SOULCITYSIRENS.COM

+ TUESDAY

11.20

ARTS THE NUTCRACKER

Come and experience the same magic and grandeur that Ron Colton brought to Augusta in 1971; Presented

by Dance Augusta. Imperial Theatre; 7 p.m.; $17 to $40; 745 Broad St.; 706.722.8341

+ SATURDAY

11.24

CONCERT TUESDAY MUSIC LIVE Emil Altschuler,

THEATRE “HARVEY” See listing on Nov. 9. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre; 6:30 p.m.

Violinist. Lunch immediately following.

Lunch $10, concert free; noon; St. Paul’s Church; 605 Reynolds St.; 706.722.3463

Steep Canyon Rangers will perform. Imperial Theatre; 7:30 p.m.; $13 to $37; 745 Broad St.; 706.722.8341

IMPERIALTHEATRE.COM

+ SATURDAY

11.17

SPORTS GASPING GOBBLER 5K Presented by

the Family Y. Warren Road Community Center; 8 a.m.; $25; 300 Warren Rd.;

+ WEDNESDAY

ARTS THE NUTCRACKER

HISTORY A PETERSBURG BOAT PILOT Based on oral

histories provided by Elberton, Georgia resident, Mr. “Buck” Balchin, about this grandfather, James Henry Balchin, who crewed and piloted cotton boats from Petersburg to Augusta from the midnineteenth century until 1900. Augusta Museum of History; 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 and 1:30 p.m.; 560 Reynolds St.; 706.722.8454 AUGUSTAMUSEUM.ORG

THEATRE “HARVEY” See listing on Nov. 9. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre; 6:30 p.m.

THEATRE “MIRACLE ON 34TH ST” This classic

holiday tale is perfect for the whole family. Aiken Community Playhouse; 8 p.m.; $10 to $25; 126 Newberry St., Aiken; 803.648.1438

+ ONGOING

11.21 WEEKLY COMMUNITY REGISTER FOR THE LIGHTED BOAT PARADE City of Augusta,

THEFAMILYY.ORG

THEATRE “THE VELVETEEN RABBIT” Presented by

the University Theatre Players. Etherredge Center at USC Aiken; 9:15 a.m., 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.; 471 University Pkwy.; Aiken; 803.641.3305 USCA.EDU

+ THURSDAY

11.22 THEATRE “THE VELVETEEN RABBIT” See listing on Nov.

21. Etherredge Center at USC Aiken; 9:15 and 11 a.m.

working dairy also has fun activities including a petting zoo, jumping pillow, giant tube slide, rubber duck races, a preschool play area with swings and slides, a corn kernel pit, hayrides, corn maze, pumpkin patch and real cow milking demonstrations. Open Fridays-Sundays; 2 and under free. Ends Nov. 18. Steeds Dairy; $12; 4634 Wrightsboro Rd., Grovetown; 706.855.2948

See listing on Nov. 23.

Imperial Theatre; 1 and 5 p.m.; $17 to $40; 745 Broad St.; 706.722.8341

CONCERT KICKS 99 GUITAR PULL Luke

Bryan, Billy Currington, Brantley Gilbert, Little Big Town, Lee Brice and American Idol Lauren Alaina. Proceeds go to the Million Pennies for Kids Campaign. James Brown Arena; 7:30 p.m.; $35; 601 Seventh St.; 877.4AUGTIX

FOR KIDS MAIZE SEASON AT STEEDS DAIRY This real,

STEEDSDAIRY.COM

IMPERIALTHEATRE.COM

CONCERT SOUTHERN SOUL & SONG SERIES

+ SATURDAYS

+FRIDAY

Downtown Development Authority, WRDW News12 and the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce encourage all individuals, schools, civic groups and churches to participate in this event on Saturday, Dec. 1. Motorized boats only. Augusta Riverfront Marina; 6:30 p.m.; $25; 803.279.2323 THEATRE CALL FOR QUICKIES SCRIPTS Le Chat

Noir will select 10 to 15 of the submitted entries in mid-February for inclusion in Le Chat Noir’s ‘Quickies’ presentation. One-act plays of up to a half hour or short plays between 5 and 15 minutes. Adult themes and content permitted.

Email submissions to info@lcnaugusta.org.

Deadline Dec. 31.

FOR KIDS FALL FUN AT KACKLEBERRY FARM Corn

maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides and other harvest season activities. Maize Season--Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 11.

Ages 2-and-under free.

Kackleberry Farm; $9 to $12; 1025 Verdree Rd., Louisville; 706.830.4968

WEEKLY FESTIVAL AUGUSTA MARKET AT THE RIVER

Local farmers, crafters, artists and other vendors.

Eighth Street Bulkhead; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; free; Corner of Eighth and Reynolds Sts.; 706.627.0128

HISTORY AIKEN HISTORIC TOUR Two-hour guided

tour aboard a climatecontrolled trolley.

Reservations are highly recommended as tours are often sold out. Aiken Visitors Center & Train Museum; 10 a.m.; 406 Park Ave. SE, Aiken; 803.642.7631

than Meets the Eye. Ruth Patrick Science Education Center; 9 p.m.; $1 to $4; 471 University Parkway, Aiken; 803.641.3654

RPSEC.USCA.EDU

HOLIDAY PLANTATION BLOOD HAUNTED HOUSE

PLANTATIONBLOOD.COM

+ SUNDAYS

WEEKLY ART Sunday Sketch Materials supplied by

the museum. The Morris Museum of Art; 2 p.m.; free; 1 10th St.; 706.724.7501

THEMORRIS.ORG

THURSDAYS LITERARY CREATIVE WRITING GROUP Geared

MORRIS WEIGLE AND AVRETT EXHIBIT Ends Dec.

28. Sacred Heart Cultural Center; 5 p.m.; free; 1301 Greene St.; 706.826.4700

EDUCATION DUPONT PLANETARIUM More

KACKLEBERRYFARM.COM

Open Thurs. - Sun. Ends Nov. 10. Plantation Blood; 4127 Wallie Ave.; 706.793.3100

ART OF JOHN PENDARVIS A native of South Carolina.

Artwork consists of large collages, mixed media, canvases, serigraphs and pieces on paper.

Pendarvis’ works are representations of jazz band musicians, dancing, African ceremonial masks and spiritual themes. Ends December 15. Candler Memorial Building at Paine College; 706.821.8200

ART EXHIBITS AN EXHIBIT BY BILLY S.

Showcased for the month of November. Gaartdensity holds art shows every first and second Friday of the month. Gaartdensity Art Gallery; free; 1155 Broad St.

ANNUAL QUILT EXHIBITION

This eclectic presentation will allow the viewer to enjoy many different examples of quilting from the early 19th century until today; Ends Dec. 31. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History; $2 to $5; 1116 Phillips St.; 706.724.3576

+ FOR MORE EVENTS

PLEASE GO TO WWW.VERGELIVE.COM FOR COMPLEAT LOCAL EVENT LISTINGS

PORTRAITS OF SOUTHERN ARTISTS Jerry Siegel’

black-and-white portraits of thirty-three iconic Southern artists, all of whom are represented by works in the Morris Museum collection; Morris Museum’s Coggins Gallery.

Runs through Dec. 2.; 1 Tenth St.; 706.724.7501

toward fiction writers interested in improving their craft. Columbia County Library; 10 a.m.; free; 7022 Evans Town Center Blvd., Evans; 706.447.8184 ECGRL.ORG

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 21

the film reel

vibe

now playing on the big screen

screen still fROm TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 im Bur “No Shave November” would never fly with James Bond, but Abe Lincoln and the Twilight werewolves would no doubt embrace the concept. Bond’s perfectly clean-shaven face is the first to grace movie screens with the November 9 opener SKYFALL. This 23rd installment of the all-time longest-running movie franchise marks Daniel Craig’s third go-round as Ian Fleming’s famously handsome and resilient super spy.

T

EXCEPTIONAL WINES UNIQUE FRENCH CUISINE DAILY SPECIALS

Parachuting into the Summer Olympics Opening Ceremonies with the Queen was nothing compared to the stunts Craig had to endure on the set of Skyfall, where director Sam Mendes (American Beauty) shunned the use of CGI effects in favor of real action per Bond movie tradition. This time Bond faces Javier Bardem, who has already proven his ability to play haunting villains with his Oscar-winning role in No Country for Old Men. Bardem plays Silva, a former MI6 agent who was betrayed by M (Judi Dench) and funnels his anger toward her into a destructively evil quest for revenge that requires Bond’s attention. Ralph Fiennes and Albert Finney also star. Daniel Craig has already signed on for two more 007 films to be released over the next couple of years.

Steven Spielberg’s long awaited Abraham Lincoln drama opens November 16. The biopic sets up star Daniel Day-Lewis (There Will Be Blood, My Left Foot) as a shoe-in for his third Best Actor Oscar. The famously committed actor was strictly referred to as “Mr. President” or “President Lincoln” while on the set of LINCOLN. This look at the deeply personal struggles of our legendary 16th President and his roles in the Civil War and slave emancipation comes from screenwriter Tony Kuschner, who also worked with Spielberg on Munich. Historian and writer Doris Kearns Goodwin contributed to the script and guided Daniel Day-Lewis on a tour of Illinois with access to Lincoln’s personal effects prior to filming. Lincoln celebrates a noted historical figure’s human flaws as he struggles with responsibility to his country and his commitment to his family. The film focuses on Lincoln’s efforts to end slavery in early 1865. Sally Field plays Mary Todd Lincoln, Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays their son Robert and the cast also includes Tommy Lee Jones, James Spader and David Strathairn among other famous faces.

The week brings another period drama as Keira Knightley embodies Tolstoy’s tragic heroine ANNA KARENINA in an adaption from screenwriter Tom Stoppard (Shakespeare in Love).

Jude Law also stars in this offering from director Joe Wright, who previously worked with Knightley on Atonement and Pride & Prejudice.

The curtain closes on novelist Stephenie Meyer’s pop culture phenomenon this month with the final adaptation of The Twilight Saga. The series has spawned five feature films since 2008, when it catapulted stars Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner into the spotlight. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 2 finds Bella (Stewart) transformed from human to vampire and enjoying the company of her young half-vampire-halfhuman daughter Renesmee and hubby Edward Cullen (Pattinson). Lautner returns as muscular werewolf Jacob, who has thankfully gotten over his romantic fixation on Bella. The unmercifully strict vampire governing body, the Volturi, come after Bella’s happy family as they accuse the Cullens of breaking their most significant rule by creating an immortal child. Bill Condon returns as director. by mariah gardner, movie guru screen still fROm sinister

22 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

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lokal loudness

vibe

Stoney’s sound bites

Legend Brought Back to Life

J

ust a few days before Halloween I learned that legendary Rolling Stones front man Mick Jagger has been tapped to produced a biopic about the late great James Brown. Immediately I thought to myself, “Hmmm…looks like zombies aren’t the only peeps being brought back to life for the big screen these days.” Jagger is teaming up with J. Edgar co-producer Brian Grazer.

Grazer has been lobbying to do a movie about the “Godfather of Soul” even before the funk/ soul legends’ death in 2006, and now with Spike Lee’s project out of the picture the time just may be perfect. Now all that remains to be seen is who Grazer and Jagger dig up to portray Brown himself. Personally, I’m curious who will play MC Danny Ray. I’d also like to lobby for a vote on which future pop star from the Disney camp gets to play guitarist Keith Jenkins.

Before I forget – JESUP DOLLY drummer Brian “Stak” Allen asked that I mention just how badass his band is and to let everyone know that they are going to take over the music scene. I really like JESUP DOLLY and hope that they stick around for a while. The past few years Stak has gone through bands like J.T. O’ Sullivan has gone through NFL football teams. Think the guy is due some band longevity.

Speaking of taking over the Augusta music scene – in just a short amount of time singersongwriter CELIA GARY has built up a solid fan base and a mad respect amongst her peers.

While Celia still has a lot to learn (and she’ll be the first to tell you that!) the young lady doesn’t let her “greenness” hold her back; she has one of the strongest work ethics I’ve seen around Augusta in a while. The girl is always writing, performing and promoting, and now just a few short months after she decided to give the “music thing” a shot, she has already scheduled a CD release party for her upcoming EP “Harmony.” Actually she will be having TWO release shows, both on November 30 – the early show at 6 p.m. and late show at 10 p.m. In an effort to make sure she gets tickets in people’s hands she has even been camping out at different locations for people to buy them; admission not only includes what will surely be a great performance, but also a copy of her five-song CD! Yeah…that girl sure knows how to work it!

One more thing before I go – finally caught Augusta heavy rockers F.O.C.U.S. live and have to say that I am now a fan. So just a thought -- Christmas is coming up, and I have a pretty nice CD player in my van hint, hint.

Well friends, gotta roll, but first let me remind you to check the Daily Planner in this here verge for a guide to some great upcoming live shows and to keep up in between stop by LOKALLOUDNESS.COM.

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.

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 23

24 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

NIGHTLIFE WEDNESDAY, NOV 7

ANGEL BROWN + ATL DREAMVISION @ Club 706 6 p.m.

NOVEMBER 7-24 2012

THURSDAY, NOV 8

OPPOSITE BOX + 7 FLIP @ Sky City | 10 p.m., $5

FRIDAY, NOV 9 AFROMAN + DJ SCIENTIST @ Sky City | 9 p.m., $10 ROSHAMBEAUX @ Wild Wing Café | 9 p.m.

BURNING ANGELS @ Stillwater Taproom | 10 p.m., $5

TUESDAY, NOV 20

STRAIGHT LINE STITCH + DEFILER + DEAD BY WEDNESDAY + NECESSARY EVIL @ Sky City | 9 p.m., $7 to $10 ERIK SMALLWOOD @ Wild Wing Cafe | 10:15 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, NOV 21 ANGEL BROWN + ATL DREAMVISION @ Club 706 | 6 p.m.

THE BURNING ANGELS @ Stillwater Taproom | 10 p.m., $5

SATURDAY, NOV 24

SNAPDRAGON + LIVINGROOM LEGENDS @ Sky City | 10 p.m., $5

SUNDAY, NOV 11

PLAYBACK THE BAND AND TUTU D’VYNE @ Crazy Turks Pizza | 9 p.m.

MIKE FROST JAZZ @ The Willcox | 8 p.m.

FREE WORLD POKER GAMES @ Somewhere in Augusta 7 p.m. or 9 p.m., Games begin at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Players play for a seat at the World Series of Poker.

TUESDAY, NOV 13 HAPPY BONES @ Joe’s Underground Cafe | 8 p.m., $2

WEDNESDAY, NOV 14 ANGEL BROWN + ATL DREAMVISION @ Club 706 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOV 15 JOE STEVENSON @ Metro Coffeehouse | 9 p.m.

FIRDAY, NOV 16 D. B. BRYANT BAND @ Wild Wing Café | 10 p.m.

SMOKEY’S FARMLAND BAND @ Stillwater Taproom | 10 p.m., $5

SATURDAY, NOV 17

AUGUSTA STOCK MUSIC FEST @ Sky City | 9 p.m., $5 to $10

Thursdays

80’S NIGHT WITH DJ RANA @ The Playground | 9 p.m.

BOOM BOX @ Soul Bar | 8 p.m., Drink specials daily during Happy Hour (4 p.m. - 7 p.m., Monday - Friday).

SOUP, SUDS & CONVERSATIONS @ The Fox’s Lair | 6 p.m.

4 CATS IN THE DOG HOUSE

@ The Willcox | 6 p.m.

TANGO NIGHT @ Casa Blanca Café | 6 p.m.

Tuesdays $100 TAB BIG PRIZE TRIVIA @ Somewhere in Augusta 8 p.m.

TRIVIA NIGHT @ The Playground Bar | 10 p.m.

PIANO @ The Willcox | 8 p.m.

Wednesdays KARAOKE @ Midtown Lounge 10 p.m.

MANUEL’S MUSIC WEDNESDAYS @ Manuel’s Bread Café | 5:30 p.m.

TRIVIA NIGHT WITH CHRISTIAN & MICKEY @ Surrey Tavern | 8 p.m.

BIKE NIGHT! @ The First Round | 8 P.M., The first drink is on us!

MORGAN PARHAM C

oCo: You’ve become a popular local producer…how did you get into recording bands?

Morgan: I got into recording when my old band (Sunset Soundtrack) decided to selfproduce our demo.

CoCo: What’s your musical background?

Morgan: I’ve been playing guitar since high school. In college I played and sang with a few different bands. I’ve been trying to get better at keys, bass and drums over the past few years.

Fridays ALL-OUT ACOUSTIC FRIDAY @ Hotel Aiken | 9:30 p.m.

OPEN MIC NIGHT @ The Playground Bar | 8 p.m.

LIVE JAZZ FRIDAY @ The Partridge Inn | 10 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY @ The First Round | 10 p.m., free

MONDAY, NOV 12

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS VS. PITTSBURGH STEELERS @ Somewhere in Augusta 8:30 p.m.

KRAZY KARAOKE @ The Playground Bar | 10 p.m.

DEAD CONFEDERATE + EYE CANDY + SHONNA TUCKER @ Sky City | 10:30 p.m., $10

WEEKLY Mondays SATURDAY, NOV 10

vibe

Coco rubio’s One on One Chat With CSRA Musicians

SETH WINTERS @ 1102 Downtown | 7 p.m.

HAPPY BONES @ Joe’s Underground Café | 8 p.m., $2

SPEED DATING AND SINGLES MIXER @ Somewhere in Augusta | 7 p.m., $15

coco’s q&a

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY @1102 Bar and Grill | 10 p.m., no cover

Saturdays FREE DANCE LESSONS @ Country Club | 7 p.m.

NOW DANCE, BABY! SATURDAY @ Hotel Aiken 9:30 p.m., with DJ Kenny Ray, Greatwhitefunk & Smurf FRESHSOUNDS DANCE PARTY @ The Playground 8 p.m.

DRINK + DROWN @ The Library Nightclub | 10 p.m., $10

Sundays BEER PONG @ The Playground | 10 p.m.

LIVE DJ EVERY SUNDAY @ 1102 Bar and Grill | 10 p.m., no cover

CoCo: Where did you go to high school & college?

Morgan: Evans High School and UGA. CoCo: Are you working full time as a producer right now, or is it a part-time job?

Morgan: Ha ha...yep, I run the studio full time. I feel very fortunate that I’m able to do something I love like this. Augusta has a lot of great bands and I consider myself lucky to be around so many talented musicians.

CoCo: Who are some of your favorite local bands that you’ve recorded?

Morgan: Right now Brandy from She N She is here. We’re finishing up some mixes for their new album -- always like their stuff. At the moment, I’m really diggin’ Jesup Dolly, Cameras Guns and Radios and The Gilded Youth. I also just finished up some mixes for the 12 Bands of Christmas CD. Granny’s Gin is back in the studio for their sophomore album... very cool stuff. I’m also really into Nine Day Descent, The Radar Cinema, Panic Manor and False Flag CoCo: Who are some local bands that you’d like to work with?

Morgan: I’m a big Sibling String fan. I think they are doing some great things and I would love to get them in the studio.

CoCo: Who are some producers (past & present) that you admire? What album(s) did they work on?

Morgan: David Barbe (Drive By Truckers), Gordon Raphael (The Strokes), Ben Allen (Reptar).

CoCo: You record at your home studio...are you looking to move or are you happy there?

Morgan: I love the setup I have right now, but yes I’m definitely looking to move into a bigger space in the upcoming year.

CoCo: What advice would you give to any up-and-coming producer and/or engineer who wants to do what you do?

Morgan: Get some decent gear, love making music and practice a lot of patience. I think patience goes a long way in the studio.

CoCo: Where can people get in touch with you?

Morgan: You can find me at facebook.com/morgan. parham -- all my info is there…thanks! coco rubio opened The Soul Bar in 1995 and Sky City in 2008 with the intent to help revitalize downtown Augusta and to make it the entertainment center of the CSRA. When he is not working downtown, he likes to stay home and hang out with his daughter Maya, his wife Holly and their dog Pearl.

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 25

look good, feel good

behind the curtain

vibe

A Sense of Urgency!

T

here is a sense of urgency in the air. The job market now requires a more competitive edge in so many ways. Employers are looking for people who will bring experience to the table and at the same time possess a youthful appearance to remain relevant in this ever-changing world of business. In our industry of beauty and fashion, we have experienced that young people desire a look that says, “I’m knowledgeable even though I’m young,” and people who are older desire a youthful look that says, “I can compete, look good and bring my experience to the table”. We enjoy every aspect of delivering just that, the guests’ desired looks.

So many people, men and women, sometimes overlook things that are directly in front of them and could make incredible differences in their livelihood. Defining your overall look could mean an exponential payoff when obtained correctly. I simply suggest finding a stylist who matches your preferences and choosing an esthetician who will “nail” the look when it comes to your makeup. Your daytime look is one thing for an office meeting, but the evening dinner meetings are another. Both have defining looks that will cause positive stirs for both men and women.

Business pony tails are all the rage for a wide range in age for the long-haired professional women; a great example is Jessica Biel. In men, the disheveled look is as popular as combing hair straight back or defining with a precise part; think “Mad Men”. An accomplished stylist will know how to achieve these styles for you and teach you how to perfect that look using exactly the right hair care products. Quick Tease by Redken will give women that second day “do”, and Grip Tight

by Redken will perfect that precise look men now often desire.

At D.J. & Co. Salon, Spa & Gifts Inc. we believe that education is key when providing looks for our guests. We hosted Sam Villa from New York last month for our quarterly hands-on training, and to quote him, “the perfectly un-done look is what’s now -- not to be confused with messy or unkempt”. I like what I see in our guests’ desires; they are fresh and fun for us, the creative souls.

We’ve also adopted a level pricing system witnessed in my recent classes in Los Angeles. Level pricing means that stylists begin their careers offering services at much more affordable rates as they intern beside a higher-level stylist for one year. As the stylists advance with their skills and education they move up in the level system -- as a demand on their time becomes greater.

This offers the consumer an awesome range of what is important to them, price, experience and anything in between.

So I encourage you to act on that sense of urgency for style and enjoy the process and where it will take you. You’ll be the better person for it and certainly will like what you see in the mirror.

Tip of the week: Even if you’re growing your hair longer, a trim every four to five weeks will eliminate the split ends; your growth will actually begin to show faster because a split end will weaken the ends and break. You also save about 10 minutes a day in styling time when your cut is maintained.

Political Theatrics in Full Swing

I

know the last thing you want to hear right now is politics. This election has been bloodier than a Final Destination flick. But on this side of Election Day, perhaps we can look back at the art of getting a voter to put an X by your name.

I know we think of art as beautiful, and there’s nothing uglier than an election cycle, but the insane amount of money that goes into the election does manage to trickle down to the arts community. In fact, television stations have two types of budgets: election year mega-budgets with magic maps and holograms, and non-election year mini-budgets with parades and water-skiing squirrels. And it’s all because of all of those guys who can approve a message with a smile and throw knives at their opponent at the same time.

Politics is great work for actors who are of advanced ages. Someone has to play the grayheaded man worried about social security -- as if actors have to worry about such things. Even seedy-looking actors can find work in political ads, portraying the world that will be if you vote for the other guy.

But what made me realize that even the local economy gets a boost from plastic-haired politicians is when I saw the Kroc Center Theater prominently displayed in a congressional ad.

A smile crossed my lips to see that place that brings performances to so many in our community who might not otherwise get to participate. And it did my heart good to know that even if we can’t get a congressman who wants to help people, at least the Salvation Army can get a little action from the money mania that we call democracy.

A rental company with which I work can’t wait for election season because they have more work than they can handle setting up lights and stages for candidate appearances -- so the technical arts are flourishing with a tight election.

And then we dig a little deeper. Somewhere a designer has to develop all of those red, white and blue logos; musicians have to write the orchestral music that leads into every newscast’s special coverage. And just think of all those make-up artists who have to make some of these guys presentable to a television audience. In some cases, that’s award-winning work.

Perhaps the best artists of all are the candidates themselves. They have to be directors, coordinating very elaborate productions with many moving pieces and people. They have to be sculptors, carving out images that people find agreeable. They’re contortionists, trying to squeeze their positions to fit everyone’s opinions. And most of all, they’re actors, trying to put on performances that end with them taking a curtain call on election night -- too bad they don’t know that we’re all only applauding because it’s over.

For more information about services provided at D.J. & Co. Salon, Spa & Gifts, visit djanco.net.

DJ Williams owns DJ & Co on Davis Road in Augusta. In 2012, he celebrated his 20th Anniversary with his staff of 17 professionals.

DJ has received Elite Status awards from Redken, Jane Iredale and Bio Elements and twice been nominated for Global Beauty Entrepreneur of the Year. Reach him at 706.868.9400

26 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

vibe

wes hennings has been in the performing arts since he could walk, and since moving to Augusta has been in dozens of productions with companies such as The Augusta Players, Fort Gordon Dinner Theater, Enopion Theater Company and the Augusta Opera, both on stage and behind the scenes. By day, Wes is a technical director and media producer. Questions? Story Ideas? wes.verge@gmail.com

FEED FAMILY UNDER $50 CITY BILLIARDS

/ PG 29

SEASONAL BITES SOUP FOR YOU! / PG 29

Goodwill to Provide Culinary Training

See below for story

G

oodwill Industries of Middle Georgia has long been involved in providing job skills training, education and career development for individuals throughout the CSRA, and with the start of classes at Helms College Oct. 29, will offer students the opportunity to obtain an associate’s degree in culinary arts for a fraction of the cost offered by other institutions.

When completed later this year, the Augusta Career Campus at 3145 Washington Road will contain five Helms College classrooms, three culinary school kitchens, “Edgars”, a 100seat Mediterranean Bistro, and a 300-seat convention center. If successful, organizers hope that this first Helms College Campus will become a model for similar institutions across the nation.

“Helms College is named after the founder of Goodwill Industries, Rev. Edgar Helms, who worked with immigrants in Boston and set up apprenticeship programs for them through which they could become a cobbler or a seamstress,” said James K Stiff, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA. “In today’s world you

don’t see many smart-phone banner advertisements looking for a cobbler, but the hospitality industry employs roughly 1.1 million people in the U.S. and offers a great opportunity for career growth. By giving people the education and skills they need, we believe we can give them a hand up to maintain good cash flow in this difficult economy.”

“There’s a couple of leading employers in the world, one of which is the medical field and another is the hospitality industry,” said David Ross, Department Chair of Culinary Education. “The goodwill belief is that you can take anyone at any level and give them the job skills they need to support themselves.”

The initial 22-week Restaurant Fundamentals Certificate program prepares students with basic skills in culinary arts with intensive hands-on training that includes classes in food safety and sanitation, introduction to hospitality and culinary arts, basic principles of cooking, management and supervision, nutrition and restaurant techniques.

According to Ross, students completing this course will be prepared for immediate continued on page 30

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 27

28 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

feeding the family

vittles

City Billiards, Since 1957 I

’m not sure why this was my first trip to City Billiards when it’s been open since 1957, but it was. Maybe it was the “pool hall” atmosphere that kept me away, as often when I hear that I think of dark, smoky and not very family friendly. My husband suggested we eat lunch there after a baseball tournament at Citizens’ Park. He said, “They have the best hamburger in town.” Well, hearing that, I was in. I love a good burger!

seasonal bites

vittles

We were there on a Saturday afternoon, the day of the Georgia/South Carolina football game, and there was a certain excitement in the air. Everyone was sporting their team colors, watching football on the many televisions and enjoying some really good food.

Despite the anticipated deliciousness of their burgers, a “five burgers for $50” wouldn’t be a very good read. Therefore, I encouraged everyone to order something different, and we passed plates around the table. Actually, on this trip, we had Grammy Panini with us…so we fed our “family of six”.

Don’t be alarmed at the Panini family caloric intake on this outing – sometimes we all need a little splurge. Rob looked over the menu and couldn’t get past the polish sausage dog.

I am not a sausage dog kind of girl – score for him – he didn’t have to share. It was a polish sausage topped with mustard, onions and slaw. Delicious in his opinion, and I’m taking his word for it. With his dog he had onion rings, which he did have to share. They were a little on the greasy side, deep-fried battered onions usually are. The flavor was good, and they passed the crunchy test.

My oldest son wanted to go out of the “burger joint box” and order a grouper po-boy, but he didn’t want to miss out on the coveted beef. He and I decided to share the po-boy and a bacon blue cheese burger. With the first bite of the burger I confirmed the rumor. It was one of the best burgers I’ve had in a long time. City Billiards gets their beef fresh two times per week, and this freshness makes the burgers! It was cooked perfectly and the bacon was crispy and plentiful (no one likes wimpy bacon on their burger). The grouper on the po-boy had great flavor and was cooked well, but the cibatta bread on which it was served seemed a little stale – rather hard to bite. We took the fish off of the bread and ate it with forks. It was very flavorful, just not the “sandwich” we ordered. I had a side of pasta salad that was okay, but certainly nothing to talk about.

From the hot dog portion of the menu, Sam chose a chili-cheese slaw dog, something you don’t get everyday. Man, that thing was a mess, but he enjoyed every bite of it. Ketchup and chili dripped on his shirt, cheese in his lap and slaw all over his face. He said it was so good he was, “saving some for later.” What’s a good hotdog without a big mess, right? Sam’s a fry guy, so of course he had an order. The fries were great, cooked just right, and we all had our share. One order of regular fries and one topped with chili and cheese (remember, we are not counting calories here) were passed around the high-top pub table with wobbly “twisty” chairs – wobbly “twisty” chairs that greatly distracted Sarah from everything else, including her chicken fingers that we had to box up and take home. We tried them, and they were good (as far as chicken fingers go), but not as good as the fries, onion rings and ice-cold root beer that filled her belly before they got to our table.

Grammy ordered the bacon cheeseburger in her normal fashion, with mustard only. No one in my family is a huge fan of the yellow condiment, so she had her burger all to herself.

She was pleased with it and with the red potato salad she ordered on the side.

We will definitely visit City Billiards again. The people are friendly, the atmosphere is fun, and we fed our family (plus one) for $45.84. It’s just the type of place that you can go with family or friends and relax, enjoy good food and feel like you’re at home. It would be a fantastic spot to go and enjoy a game on TV. Just keep in mind, if you don’t allow yourself to splurge on the unhealthy, this may not be the place for you. It’s fried, it’s cheesy and it’s full of FOOD QUALITY high-calorie goodness

SERVICE ENVIRONMENT

article by Sally Panini

It’s Soup Time G

etting back into fall means getting back to soup season at our house, and warm soup evokes so many feelings for me. I have the fondest childhood memories of cool fall days at my grandparents’ house. One of the most distinct “smells of the season” was Grandma’s homemade vegetable beef soup. And if being homemade by the most amazing woman I’ve ever known isn’t enough, the fact that the ingredients she used came straight from Papa’s garden topped all. You see, my Papa spent his retirement growing and harvesting organic, (before organic was “in”) seasonal veggies, and my Grandma spent hers cooking, freezing and canning them.

Grandma’s Homemade Soup

INGREDIENTS: - 2 pkgs. frozen, diced tomatoes or 2 cans, un-drained - ½ c. ketchup - 4 fresh carrots, diced - 1 large baking potato, diced - 16 oz. frozen vegetables - 1-3 shakes of thyme - 1-3 shakes of basil - Seasoning salt, to taste - 1 med. Onion, chopped - 1 lb. stew beef - 2 tbsp. vegetable oil DIRECTIONS: Season beef and onion with seasoning salt, and brown in oil. Add enough water to cover meat. Add tomatoes, ketchup and seasonings. Cover and simmer until meat is tender (at least one hour). Add carrots and simmer for 30 minutes.

Add remaining vegetables. Simmer over low heat all day. This recipe tastes best when you use leftover veggies. Keep a container in the freezer to store the leftovers. When the container is full, it is time for a pot of soup.

To finish this off, you must serve with saltine crackers and butter…REAL butter. Neither this soup nor the memories can be matched exactly, but give it a try – make soup for your family; create your own memories! Make Grandma Jones proud!

Note: If you’re a native Augustan you’re probably familiar with Papa Jones’ roadside stand on Heath Drive – the self-serve carport stand with the sign reading, “Help yourself and have a good day” – the one where you put your money in the old cookie tin and made your own change. It was a legend, a legend that will live on forever in the hearts of many.

by Jennifer Pruett

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 29

vittles cover jump

vittles

continued from page 27

David Ross, Dept. Chair of Culinary Education employment at restaurants, delis, cafes and hotels, or they can continue on into the 44-week Culinary Arts Diploma program, which builds on the skills learned during the 22-week program and prepares students to become leaders in the field and to seek employment with catering companies or as kitchen supervisors.

Helms students will work with state-of-the-art equipment including range ovens, salamander ovens, robot coupes (powerful blenders) and electromagnetic induction cookers that can boil water while remaining cool to the touch. A pastry lab will include highly specialized equipment for working with pastries, and all equipment will be designed to aid in teaching those techniques and proficiencies that will become valuable to students once they join the workforce.

Part of the curriculum will require students to work alongside the fully professional staff at “Edgars” and serve food banquet style as well as take short orders. Other institutions which support Helms College include the Masters, which has offered to employ students for two weeks during the Tournament, the Country Club, the Sheraton and the Partridge Inn. “A lot of schools have a kitchen attached, but this will beat any of them because we have a fully professional staff,” said Ross. “I’m particularly pleased that the Masters has offered to employ students for two weeks during the Masters, which is a beautiful thing to put on a resume. The more experience our students get while they’re taking classes means that these kitchens will be able to hire better trained people once they graduate.”

A Goodwill Staffing Center starting at this location later this year will further assist students seeking employment after graduation. Prospective students will also be eligible or Pell grants, Stafford loans and other federal tuition assistance programs for low-wealth individuals who qualify.

Most impressive to Ross is the value of the program, which costs only $6,300 for the 22-week program and $11,900 for the 44-week program and includes a full set of knives, uniforms, books and tuition with no hidden costs. He also notes that Helms is the only college in Augusta accredited to offer an associate’s degree in culinary arts, but those for-profit schools that do often charge between 40 and 60 thousand dollars.

“Ethically for me I’m very proud to be here because I know that these students are getting the best quality education that they can actually use,” he said. “I’m hoping for at least four teachers, but we’ll have no more than 20 students to a class, so as word gets out and people realize how much we’re charging for the course and the value of it, I expect we’re going to be very busy.”

“Edgars” will be finished by Christmas, while the convention center will take up the 30,000-square-foot space currently occupied by Weinberger’s Furniture and Mattress Showcase and be completed by New Year. This $12 million building project is the result of one $6 million loan and hundreds of small contributions, including $200,000 donated by a sister Goodwill in Durham, S.C. Only $500,000 remains to be raised before the end of the year, and fundraisers are counting on the people of Augusta to recognize the impact this college will have on their own town.

“It’s true that if we have more qualified students going out to the workforce of Augusta, that means the quality of the food in the area will go up,” said Ross. “We can be a catalyst for giving students the right training to take a restaurant to the next level, and if that then attracts fine restaurants to our city then I believe Augusta can become a culinary destination just like Charleston is today, and I would love to see Augusta can do that.”

Once this first-in-the-nation Helms College Campus is completed, organizers are looking to construct a second campus in Aiken sometime next year. The CEOs of all 168 Goodwill branches in the United States are invited to meet in Augusta Feb. 22-24 of 2013 to tour the campus and discuss the possibility of making Augusta the headquarters for similar Helms College Campuses across the nation. For more information or to make a donation, visit goodwillworks.org or helms.edu.

by Christopher Selmek

30 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

LUNG CANCER TEST DOCTOR’S HOSPITAL

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MAKING THE GRADE AIKEN COUNTY

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YOUR FAITH FEAR FACTOR

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5th anniversary: Christ Community Healthcare for Augusta’s Underserved see below for story

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he fundraising arm Christ Community Health Services, which now operates out of Laney Walker and Olde Town locations, has been providing primary health care for the underserved population of Augusta for the last five years since opening their doors on November 1, 2007, and they hope to carry their legacy on into the future.

Perhaps the greatest accomplishment of the community health center has been their successful renovation of the Old Widow’s Home located at 127 Telfair Street, which now hosts 12 exam rooms they can use to treat patients, more than half of who are uninsured.

“It’s been just over a year since we began seeing patients at the Widow’s Home in August of last year,” said Ron Skenes, director of communication and development. “The hallways are spacious and the patients enjoy coming to a nice location and the staff enjoys working here.

It’s nicer than a normal doctor’s office.”

“The majority of our patients don’t have insurance and we charge them on a sliding scale based on household income, but most patients pay between $25 and $35 per visit, with an average of about $28,” said Jeff Drake, executive director. “Most of the folks without insurance have a job, they just either can’t afford insurance or their employers don’t provide it for them. We also see people from homeless shelters at no charge, but they have to be referred to us.”

The six physicians and two nurse practitioners currently working for Christ Community Health Services typically see about 250-300 patients each week and may receive over a hundred phone calls from prospective new patients. In order to manage this demand, the center has a special line for scheduling new patient appointments which is active only from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Wednesday morning, from which they select the 20-25 new patients they are able to accommodate. New patients are immediately scheduled for an orientation on Friday continued on page 36

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 31

lung cancer

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Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Philip Catalano, MD reviewing a lung CT

Lung Cancer Screening Program Saves Lives N

ovember is National Lung Cancer Awareness month. Unfortunately, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women. Each year, it claims the lives of more than one million people worldwide. Sadly more people die of lung cancer than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that in the United States, the average lifetime chance that a man will develop lung cancer is 1 in 13, and for a woman it is 1 in 16.

Currently, ACS reports the overall five-year survival rate for all stages of lung cancer combined is 16 percent. While survivorship is influenced by many factors, the low survival rate is thought to be because most lung cancers are not discovered until the later stages when it is more advanced.

The five-year survival rate is 53 percent for cases detected when the disease is still localized, but unfortunately only 15 percent of lung cancers are diagnosed at this early stage. Therefore, the detection of lung cancer in its earliest stage is the key to survival.

New research indicates there is a quick, easy and non-invasive way to screen people at high risk for lung cancer that ultimately reduces the number of deaths from this disease. Studies have proven that CT lung screening can reduce mortality from lung cancer relative to screening with chest x-ray (CXR) by 20 percent. Therefore, Doctors Hospital urges those that qualify to take advantage of their low-cost CT lung cancer screening program for just $265, which is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

In order to qualify for the low-cost CT lung screening program, participants cannot have any signs or symptoms of active lung cancer (coughing up blood, unexplained cough, weight loss or chest pain), and they should not be on oxygen therapy at home or have a history of lung cancer.

In addition, they must meet one of the following two scenarios:

• Age 55-74 years-old and an active or former smoker with a minimum of a 30 packyear history of smoking (a pack-year is equivalent to 1 pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years, or 2 packs per day for 15 years, etc.).

• Age 50 or older with a 20 pack-year (or less) smoking history, in addition to one of the following: radon exposure, a history of lung disease, family history of lung cancer or other occupational exposure to known cancer-causing chemicals.

It is important to note that CT lung cancer screenings are not currently covered by most insurance carriers. That is why Doctors Hospital has chosen to make this exam available at a greatly reduced and affordable rate of only $265. Payment is required at the time of service and can be paid for using a Flexible Spending or Healthcare Savings Account. The cost of the exam may be tax-deductable as a medical expense. Everyone who participates in the screening will receive a copy of the study on disk to give to their physician and a copy of the written report will be sent directly to their physician.

Doctors Hospital remains the leading hospital in the area for the treatment of lung cancer.

In addition to our multidisciplinary team of lung cancer specialists, robotics program and a state-of-the-art radiation center, we also have SuperDimension® technology; an electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy system used the early diagnosis and biopsy of lung tumors.

If you are interested please contact 706.65.-4343 today to find out if you qualify for this low-cost CT lung screening.

Lance Danko is the Director of Oncology Services at Doctors Hospital where he oversees their American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer accredited program. He has a B.S. degree in Health Information Management from the University of Pittsburgh and received his Masters degree in Management from Southern Wesleyan University. Reach him at lance.danko@hcahealthcare.com

32 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

here’s to your health

values

Presented by Walker Chiropractic: Consider their offer below

GHSU Signs Agreement with French Cancer Institute

GHSU Cancer Center recently signed a memorandum of understanding for scientific cooperation with the Curie Institute in Paris, France, one of Europe’s foremost cancer research centers and the first in France to receive the French equivalent of National Cancer Institute designation.

During the next five years the two centers will explore multiple opportunities for cooperation, including: research; development of joint research activities of common interest, such as immune therapy, cancer cell signaling pathways, drug screening and experimental therapeutics in oncology and malignant hematology, neuro-oncology, radiation therapy and radio-physics, and pediatric oncology; exchange of visiting faculty members for research, lectures, discussion and training ; and the development of a doctoral and postdoctoral student exchange program.

“The benefits to both basic and translational research, as well as education, will be profound,” said Dr. Samir N. Khleif, Director of GHSU Cancer Center. “Studies at our cancer center will mirror those at the Curie Institute and vice versa, two leading institutions working together to solve the common problem of cancer. As we continue to grow these types of partnerships, we fulfill our mission to speed new and effective therapies to our patients.”

“Each institution offers outstanding and highlycomplementary research programs and scientific activities,” said Dr. Pierre Teillac, Director of the Curie Institute’s Hospital Group. “We are delighted to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the GHSU Cancer Center that will bring our two programs together.

Our mutual collaboration can only result in improved knowledge, greater synergies and better results for cancer patients worldwide.”

“This exciting partnership with a renowned and highly respected international institution complements our

strategic priorities,” said Dr. Ricardo Azziz, President of Georgia Health Sciences University and CEO of Georgia Health Sciences Health System.

“As we work with the Curie Institute and other global partners, we advance our mission to educate and train future health care professionals; to generate outstanding translational and trans-disciplinary research; and to develop a future-oriented and efficient health care system.”

Same-Day Mammogram Results Help Ease Women’s Worries

Mammograms continue to be the most effective method for detecting breast cancer in women. Doctors Hospital of Augusta has recently implemented measures to inform women about mammogram results within 24 hours of the screening. The results have been resoundingly positive; in most cases patients can put their minds at ease by receiving a favorable result faster.

with the patient the next steps in their care quickly. This efficient turnaround of information reduces concerns that they may have because the ball gets rolling for treatment quickly.

“I went in for my mammogram in the morning, and by that afternoon at 2 p.m., I already knew my results,” said Charlotte Hill, a patient who received her mammogram at Doctors Hospital.

Previously, results would be given to patients through the mail within one week of the screening.

To schedule your mammogram, call: 877. 357.0159.

Appointments are from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday with the exception of Tuesday.

Mammograms can be scheduled as late as 6:00 p.m. to accommodate those with longer working hours.

“As a woman I understand the importance of knowing my results from an exam such as a mammogram as quickly as possible,” said Sue Sisco, Manager of the Women’s Diagnostics Center at Doctors Hospital. “These same-day results were recently implemented in an effort to provide our patients with fewer worries for a shorter period of know It’s a perfect time to time. They know when be thankful for our family they leave our facility that caregivers. Since November they’ll be hearing from us is America’s National Family soon.”

Compiled from Press Releases By Jennifer Pruett

It’s Time to Salute Family Caregivers

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Should any abnormal results come back from the mammogram; sameday results provide the staff at the Women’s Diagnostics Center the opportunity to discuss

Caregivers Month, set aside a time to recognize and celebrate the nearly 66 million family caregivers in our country.

Many of these individuals tirelessly assist loved ones with a disability, serious illness or limitations of aging. Caregivers serve quietly and selflessly every day in homes, assisted living centers, hospitals and other places from cities to rural settings.

Free support services and online resources are available to encourage and equip caregivers. Some of these include: • Family Caregiver Alliance – caregiver.org; 800-445-8106 • National Alliance for Caregiving – caregiving.org • National Family Caregivers Association – nfcacares.org, 800-896-3650 • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services – medicare.gov/caregivers Family caregivers need and deserve encouragement and assistance in the challenges they face. All of us who champion the special role of caregiving know how valuable it is to have handy resources that offer the best care possible to loved ones. These resources help maintain caregivers’ own personal commitments, health and well-being.

Right at Home encourages our entire community to recognize the dedication and loving attention of caregivers they know. Tell them “thank you” and lend a hand -- not just during National Family Caregivers Month, but any time of year.

Right at Home of the CSRA, a leading provider of in-home care and assistance, supports America’s National Family Caregivers Month and honors the continual dedication of family caregivers everywhere. To contact Right at Home call 803-278-0250 or visit them on the web at www.csra.rightathome,net.

12/15/12

Kathy crist Co-Franchisee

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34 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

education connection

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Education brought to you by: partners in achievement & the georgia military college

Columbia County teachers, Dylan Bollinger and Allison Hillman receive grants from Georgia Power on October 23.

Georgia Power Acknowledges Teachers

Columbia County teachers Dylan Bollinger and Allison Hillman were among 44 of Georgia’s best and brightest new teachers to receive a New Teacher Assistance Grant from Georgia Power. Bollinger teaches theatre at Harlem High School, and Hillman teaches first grade at Cedar Ridge Elementary. Teacher nominations were submitted to Georgia Power by the 22 Georgia public colleges and universities that have schools of education. To be eligible, candidates had to be in the top 25 percent of their class, be a first-year teacher employed by a public school in Georgia and demonstrate a high aptitude for teaching.

“Teacher retention is a national crisis and an important goal for our state,” said Pedro Cherry, Georgia Power’s vice president of Community and Economic Development.

“Research shows that approximately one-third of teachers leave the profession within five years of being hired. In order to support and keep these highly qualified teachers

in the classroom, we have found that providing them with incentives early in their professional careers encourages them to continue educating the future workforce of the state.”

Each year since 2004, Georgia Power has awarded the $1,000 grants to help encourage new teachers to stay in the profession and to provide them with much-needed funds to purchase classroom supplies, equipment or materials not provided by their schools. Bollinger and Hillman can use the grants to purchase items such as books, educational materials, computers and other supplies.

“More than 91 percent of public school teachers report having paid for school supplies and instructional materials out of their own pockets for their students. This award will help ease the financial burden for new teachers by allowing them to purchase items to use in their classrooms as they see fit,” noted Cherry. “Businesses must lend their support to helping improve the quality of education in the state to make certain we have an educated workforce that will ensure Georgia’s economic viability continues to flourish. This program is one of Georgia Power’s many ways of showing new teachers that their contributions are appreciated and we hope they will remain committed to the profession.”

Aiken County Making the Grade

Aiken County high schools improved in all four subject areas (Algebra I, English I, U.S. History and Biology) on the End-of-Course (EOC) tests last spring, according to results released by the State Department of Education. The district scored above the state average in all subject areas except U.S. History. End-of-course test results in Aiken County were positive, jumping several points over last year. In Aiken County high schools, 82.6 percent of the students passed the Algebra I test, 76.5 percent passed the English I test and 82.1

percent passed the Biology test. The EOC tests are given as state-wide exams in early May and count 20% of the students’ final grades in those subjects.

“As with other data points, we avoid looking at information in isolation, however, our End-of-Course test results are a very encouraging indication that we are emphasizing the concepts and skills necessary to get our students college and career ready,” stated King Laurence, Associate Superintendent Division of Instruction and Accountability.

All Aiken County high schools place special emphasis on courses with EOC exams. Teachers are isolating areas of weakness in classes with formative assessments such as Measures of Academic Progress and assisting students with targeted instruction such as Compass Learning Odyssey, USA Test Prep, math and ELA enrichment.

“We are pleased with the EOC results this year; all four subjects are up over last year, and all but one area meets or exceeds the state’s averages. For several years, the district has worked closely with USCA and Aiken Technical College to provide high-quality professional development for our Algebra and pre-Algebra teachers. We see those efforts paying off in the Algebra I scores. Also, schools have provided targeted on-time, on-line credit recovery for core courses in high school,” said Dr. Elizabeth Everitt, Superintendent of Schools.

“The increases in our district scores in English I and Algebra I are especially important because these two courses teach the basic skills that students need to be successful in advanced courses later in high school,” according to Dr. Randy Stowe, Director of Administrative Services.

Compiled from Press Releases By Jennifer Pruett

Tutoring vs. Training…What’s the Difference?

Cognitive training programs, such as those offered at Partners in Achievement, are different from traditional tutoring on a very basic level. Traditional tutoring offers additional help in particular subject areas or with particular skills, re-teaching material that a student missed the first time it was presented. Cognitive skills training targets the abilities necessary to learn. It is developmental in nature, establishing and strengthening the brain skills, sensory integration and visual and auditory processing skills which are absolutely essential to learn and succeed in everything we do in life. We fix the reasons that tutoring is needed in the fist place.

Who Benefits from Cognitive Skills Training?

People of all ages can benefit from brain training. PIA’s brain training programs have the power to improve the quality of life and learning for almost any student regardless of their current level of learning or success. We work with anyone, from age 6 to age 106, who wants to improve functioning through working quicker, increasing memory, reading, listening, comprehending what is read or said, making decisions, focusing and paying attention.

What is Cognitive Skills Training?

Most people take for granted the amazing processes that happen in our brains. Every bit of information, every question and each fragment of sensory input is processed at lightning speed so that we can learn, answer, decide or just enjoy the moment. Brain training simply makes all this processing faster and easier. There are seven cognitive skills assessed by our screenings: processing speed, selective attention, auditory analysis, visual processing, logic an reasoning, word attack and working memory. Each skill plays a specific role in learning and contributes to overall success.

Darren SCHEYER is co-owner and operating officer for Partners in Achievement. He has a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology and has been working with students and professionals in the area of cognitive skills training for more than 12 years. PIA offers free initial screenings and consultations. Please call 706-650-1877 for more info, on line @ www.webuildbetterbrian.com, and on facebook @ facebook/ partnersinachievemnet

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 35

Christ Community

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continued from page 31

morning or afternoon where they can learn more about the policies, procedures and the sliding fee scale.

“If you’re an established patient you call the main number and we’ll set up the appointment with your physician,” said Skenes. “That’s one of the benefits of being a primary care facility --continuity of care. You establish a relationship with a provider, so it’s not like you have to explain your whole life history every time you go in.”

“Before they establish here, a lot of our patents either aren’t going to a doctor or are using the emergency room as their physician, which isn’t the ideal way to treat common ailments like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or obesity,” said Drake.

Only 40 percent of Christ Community Health Service’s operating budget comes from patient fees. The remaining 60 percent they raise from individual or church donations, much needed assistance from University Hospital, or the annual

Federally Qualified Health Center grant.

According to Skenes, they also have a great volunteer staff that helps to keep their costs low.

received patients from as far away as Aiken, Waynesboro and Lincolnton, and estimate that they now serve 15-16 different counties.

“We do have a great volunteer staff, and if someone is interested in getting involved they can do so in almost any capacity,” he said. “We have a couple of retired folks who come in once a month and shred paper for us, and we do have volunteer nurses as well. If we need a specialist like a cardiologist or oncologist, there are a lot of specialists in town who are very supportive of our mission and may take patients charging much less that they would normally charge.”

Christ Community Health Services is continuing to raise money for the next phase of their mission, which involves restoring the second and third floors of the Widow’s Home to include office space, a multi-purpose room, physical therapy and possibly a third floor dental clinic.

Although the majority of Christ Community patients come from Richmond or Colombia County, there is no geographic limit as long as they can get to their appointments. They have

Christ Community Health Service’s Olde Town location is open five days a week, while their Laney Walker location is open three days a week. To schedule a new patient appointment, call 706.396.1464 between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Wednesday.

by Christopher Selmek

Coming Soon to Evans!

Our Interest is in You! www.firstbankofga.com

Early 2013 4349 Washington Road Across from Mellow Mushroom in front of Kroger

Member

FDIC

36 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

your faith

Is FEAR a Factor?

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he destination was Adventureland – the date had been circled on our calendar for quite some time, and it was finally here!

We hopped in our Chevy Astro van for the three hour drive to Des Moines. The weather was stellar, the drive was uneventful and the lines at the park weren’t too long. We were certain we would have a ton of fun and leave with tremendous memories.

Casting a long shadow over Adventureland was their signature heart-pounding ride, The Dragon, a massive wooden roller coaster. In spite of all the other rides and entertainment opportunities, my son (then about 9) decided he wanted to ride The Dragon. As I recall, I tried my best to be sure he knew what he was getting himself in to. However, In spite of my efforts, Luke was determined to climb in for the ride of his young life.

As the scenario unfolded, he and I ended up in the FRONT car on the coaster -- providing us an “in your face” view with no place to retreat from the scream-inducing adventure that was about to begin.

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The ride up the first hill provided great anticipation, but, the ride down was just the opposite. Luke was not prepared for the speed, the rattling or the turns. He was petrified. My attention for the entire ride shifted to getting him safely to the end (without any lingering trauma). To my son’s credit, he was brave to get on the ride; also to his credit, he declined to ride The Dragon again that day.

Perhaps you have had or are having a “dragon ride” experience in your life. Maybe it’s been a physical challenge or perhaps a relationship that has left you feeling broken, alone and afraid.

Even reading the daily news can ignite feelings of despair and discouragement. Fear creeps in.

Have you noticed that when fear takes root in your life that it grows? The darkness gets larger and larger and threatens to take over your thoughts. It suffocates your perspective and ultimately can leave you paralyzed and unable to move forward with your life.

In reality, many people are fearful -- afraid of the future, afraid of a bad report from the doctor, afraid of losing their jobs, or not being able to find one. There is fear about the impact of

ab’s sports lessons

college recruiters type “Aquinas High School” into their GPS systems. As a matter of fact, Hill already has more than 30 Major D-I offers, including big time programs like U Conn, Alabama, Clemson, FSU, UGA, Ga. Tech, Indiana, Kansas and South Carolina. Hill is explosive and has few weaknesses on the floor. I have no doubt that Hill will be tremendous again this season for the Irish. However, he may not have area Player of the Year honors locked up. The player that will provide the biggest challenge for Hill is Westside shooting guard Frank Booker.

Augusta Area Loaded As Hoops Season Approaches

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he football season is winding down, and while a few teams in the area should make deep playoff runs, it is hard not to turn my attention to basketball. The reason is simple. The Augusta area is loaded with talented players, some among the best in the nation. While, junior guard Ahmed Hill of Aquinas will garner most of the headlines, there is another player in Augusta that all basketball fans should keep their eyes on. First, Hill deserves the accolades. He is a 6-4 wing player with all the tools. He is currently ranked as the No. 1 Junior in Georgia and as high as the 18th best prospect in the country in the class of 2014. Last season Hill averaged 19.9 points per contest and led Aquinas to the State Final Four.

He also hauled in 7.4 rebounds a game and made plenty of

I am going out on a huge limb here. Booker was an AllArea and All-State performer a year ago when he poured in 20.2 points per game as a junior. The first time I saw him play was 4 years ago when he was just an 8th grader. He knocked down 19 of 25 three point shots to win a 3-point shootout.

It’s easy to see why Booker became known as a great pure shooter; however, that label has become a bit unfair. He can do much more than just shoot. He also grabbed eight rebounds and dished out six assists per game in 2011.

If the name sounds familiar to you it’s because his dad, Frank Sr., was a star player at Westside in the early 80’s. He went on to have a stellar career at Bowling Green before being drafted by the New Jersey Nets in 1987. The elder Booker played professionally overseas for nearly a decade.

In a game in Iceland in 1991, Booker nailed 15 three pointers in a 60 point effort. So it is safe to say Frank Jr. has basketball in his blood. On top of the bloodlines, Booker Jr. was also always around the game. His dad has worked for the Richmond County Recreation Department for years, and Frank Jr. could always be found at Warren Rd. Gym with a ball in his hand. He has also been mentored by a who’s who of the best basketball players to ever call Augusta home. From former ARC star and Auburn standout Gerald White, to for

past decisions and future unknowns. Folks are afraid they won’t be able to live adequately in retirement. On and on the goes the roller coaster ride of fear. It’s a noose that wraps itself around hearts and tries to destroy any joy that may be present in life.

It should come as no surprise that the Bible and our lifelong enemy, Satan, knows we have a natural bent toward fear, especially when we try to deal with life’s challenges with our own very limited strength. There are literally hundreds of times in God’s word when God’s messengers (angels) and Jesus himself tell us NOT to be afraid.

Be encouraged today by this reality: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. “Isaiah 41:10 “For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.” Isaiah 41:13 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18 You are never alone. We have the promise of our Creator God that He will always be with us, always love us, and always provide for us. You do have a choice-Don’t be fearful choose to TRUST HIM.

STEVE swanson serves as the Station Manager of Family Friendly 88.3 WAFJ. He’s invested 30+ Years in the world of radio and was named the Christian Music Broadcasters Program Director of the year 2009 and 2011. He and his wife Susie make their home in North Augusta.

values Westside and Duke star William Avery…all of his dad’s pals have taken an interest in Frank Jr.’s game.

The mix of great genes, terrific role models, and god given talent has helped Booker become one of the top players in the state. He is currently ranked as the 8th best senior in Georgia and has been tabbed as the #37 shooting guard in the nation for the Class of 2013 by ESPN. The 6-3 standout is being courted by several big time programs like UGA, Ga. Tech, Tennessee, and Miami, but so far he does not have any offers from any major programs. LaSalle and Austin Peay are two of the top programs to make scholarship offers, but that could all change in a few months. I have a feeling all that hard work in the off season will pay major dividends for Booker.

So don’t be surprised if puts up 25 points a game, gets that major scholarship off, and gives Ahmed Hill a run for his money for area player of the year honors A few other players to watch this season: Reggie Reid (Soph, Harlem), Darius Williams (Soph., Josey), Matt Miller (Sr., GAIS), Austin Crown (Sr., GAIS), Damian Foreman (Jr., Evans), Rashawn Taylor (Sr., Westside), Michael Scott (Jr., Aquinas), Jashawn Brooks (Soph., Laney), Aubrey McRae (Jr., Glenn Hills)

ashley brown known to listeners as AB, is the Sports Director for Beasley Broadcasting in Augusta. He’s producer of the Austin Rhodes Show and host of CSRA Sports Hour. AB’s quick wit and encyclopedic sports knowledge have made him the leader in sports broadcasting in the CSRA.

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38 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7

ask dr. karp

life face first

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Terry, at Ft. Gordon, asks…

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WHAT IS THE DASH DIET?

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his is a very important question, Terry, and thanks for asking. The DASH Diet is a scientifically-proven way of eating that lowers your blood pressure. It is not a fad diet, and it costs nothing to learn about it. It is easily available on the web, on the NIH website.

When most people think of blood pressure, they think only of how much SALT they are eating. As it turns out, blood pressure is related to a whole lot more about what you eat than just salt or sodium.

What causes high blood pressure? Nobody really knows, but we do know that when your blood pressure is elevated (greater than 120/80 mm Hg), you have an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, kidney disease and blindness. We also know that certain foods you eat can lower your blood pressure and thus lower your health risks. How great is that? YOU can, VOLUNTARILY, make a CHOICE to take action to reduce your risk of major disease.

What about your diet increases your blood pressure? The first thing that comes to mind is the salt or sodium in your diet. These days, most of the salt in the food you eat does not get there by shaking a salt shaker. Most of the salt that you take in comes from all the “eatingout” going on in this country today. You’d be shocked if you realized how much salt is added to restaurant food. Why? It is much “easier” and less expensive to dump in loads of salt than to take the time and add the right spices and flavoring agents that make the food taste really wonderful. Other important places that too much salt creeps into your diet are snack foods, such as pickles, relishes, mustards, ketchup and salsa, which people overdose on. For example, I was sitting next to a guy on Broad Street who was having fries with his 12 packets of ketchup!

The DASH Diet focuses on much more than just salt or sodium. Other nutrition factors include 1) eating too many calories which leads to being overweight, 2) eating fatty foods, especially foods that have a lot of animal fat, 3) eating foods high in cholesterol, like whole eggs, and 4) eating or drinking foods high in sugar. Also, it turns out that high blood pressure can also be caused by eating too few fruits, veggies, fish, poultry and nuts. We don’t mean fried fish and going overboard with the chicken and the nuts. Veggies and fruit are just about the only foods that you can almost eat as much as you want (there are exceptions). For example, the DASH Diet recommends 10 servings of fruits and veggies per day.

The DASH Diet to lower your blood pressure is very similar to the diets that lower your risk of hardening of the arteries, diabetes, obesity and stroke. That’s one thing that most people don’t realize. There is NOT one diet for this disease and one diet for that disease. Today we really understand that all disease-preventing diets are the same…there is ONE healthy diet, period. For a fuller discussion of the DASH Diet look on the web or the “AskDrKarp” Facebook page. I have also posted an article entitled, “Food Can Taste Great without Adding Salt, Sugar and Fat.” Your “no-nonsense nutrition advice” for today is simple: instead of adding a DASH of salt to your food add the DASH Diet to your life.

Dr. warren Karp is a professor emeritus at Georgia Health

Sciences University. If you have a question you would like answered in this colomn visit his Facebook page, facebook.com/askdrkarp

Winter Blues Prevention

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hat are you doing?” my husband Brian asked. He stood in the doorway, his head just visible above the mattress and box spring that I had pushed upright against the wall.

“Isn’t it obvious?” I asked. “I’m rearranging the bedroom.”

He looked around at my work. “Is that a furnace?” he asked pointing across the room.

“Yes,” I replied “fall is due to arrive any day now.”

“Yeah I had to wear a long-sleeved shirt today.” he interrupted.

“Right and you know what happens after fall.” I said.

“Winter?” he asked.

“Exactly and you know how I hate to be cold.”

“I had noticed. Yes,” he said wryly, no doubt remembering the cold nights when I burrowed under him to stay warm.

“Well this winter I’m going to be prepared. No more cold nights or frigid mornings for me!” I twirled a coffee mug on one finger.

He blinked. “Is that the coffee maker?” He pointed to the night stand.

“Yeah, see I’m gonna have extra heat blown in from this furnace. It will keep me warm at night along with this electric blanket.” I pointed to the new blanket still in its plastic covering.

“Since the floor will still be cold and I don’t want my feet touch it, I’ve put the coffee maker right by the bed. It’s brilliant. I won’t have to get out of bed to get coffee!” I neatly set the coffee cup by the coffee maker in demonstration.

“Uh huh,” he glanced at the far wall. A pile of wires and electrical tape were on the floor.

“Are you rewiring the electrical outlet?”

“Oh yeah I had to,” I said. “See with the furnace, the electric blanket and the coffee maker it was too much on the old wires. I had to splice some things and add some stuff in. It was all very technical but I followed the pictures on the internet exactly.”

He wriggled around the mattress and picked up my laptop. He looked at the schematics that were still on the screen. “Is this what you followed?” he asked.

“Uh huh,” I replied, proud of myself.

“This is wiring for an electric toaster!” he shouted.

“Hmm, I hadn’t thought about toast. I’m not sure I want to eat it in bed, too many crumbs.”

“Forget your breakfast! You’re going burn our house down!”

“Great! Then we won’t be cold!” I beamed. “Mission successful!”

nora blithe is the author of Door In Face, a humor blog about all things that lay you flat. Read more at DOORINFACE.COM.

NOVEMBER 7 _ VERGELIVE.com / 39

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40 / VERGELIVE.com _ NOVEMBER 7 DHA-4230 Lung Cancer Ad 9.5x12.5.indd 1

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