Mark Pointer - stir Vol 1 by Mark Pointer

Sept : Oct 08

the new Columbia

for men: the fashion : yeah, there is such a thing the watch : $55,800 on your wrist the outdoors : dangerous fitness our take on columbia: where weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been, where we need to go the sexiest party trend the stir cocktail stircolumbia.com

[ingredients]

48 focus The New, Alternative and Classic Columbia

feast

A Match Made in Heaven

earn What Does it Take?

accessorize A Gentleman's Finest

style Trading Places The Right Combination

28 40

imbibe

The stir Cocktail

listen Making it. Here.

scene Jenny Workman: The Bombshell Biker Dick Not Richard What?! Chris Lynn: Falconer

cruise

Old vs. New

escape Where Tie Meets Tie-Dye

stir lists High Culture Happy Hour Boutique Banter Food & Drink Events

get out Get a Grip

his & hers

Beauty Rx

host Put the "O" in Hosting

8 52 60 66

58 61 63 64

in every issue From the Editor Love & Money What in the Hell is That? On the Calendar Get Stuff

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[from the editor] osmo-sipping in the Vista. Late night flirting in Five Points. Invigorating runs along the Congaree. Window shopping on Devine Street. No matter what the day’s activity may be, I love living in Columbia! And I'm excited to welcome you to stir – Columbia’s newest, bi-monthly guide to the best of what our vibrant city has to offer. My coworkers and I are thrilled to have the opportunity to turn our ideas and creativity into a magazine about a place we are so passionate about. But this magazine isn't about us – it's about you, our readers. It's your city, your scene…and your magazine. stir is your indispensable guide to where to go and what to do in Columbia. We'll tell you what's hot, what's lame, what you should roll out of bed on the weekends for and what you should skip. We’ll introduce you to the city’s most intriguing characters (check out our interview with DJ Richard Hine, pg. 52), inspire you with cutting edge fashion spreads, give you advice on where to road trip this season (don’t miss our Asheville feature, pg. 38) and provide you with practical career tips. Ladies, you’ll be happy to know that beauty and shopping will be covered in every issue, and guys, you’re in for a treat too – stir will cover many topics that appeal to the men of Columbia. You’ll notice our masculine vibe in this issue’s pieces on men’s fashion, accessories and automobiles. We’re also proud to bring you in-depth listings of food and drink events, gallery shows, theater and dance (my favorite is the detailed list of happy hours). And since playing it safe is not on our agendas, we plan to push the envelope a bit (fancy throwing a sex toy party, ladies? See pg. 56. Love drag queens? Turn to pg. 15). On a personal note, I’m ecstatic to be fulfilling a long time dream of mine with the production of stir – working as a magazine’s Editor in Chief. I began my print journalism career seven years ago, when I enrolled at the University of Oregon to earn a degree in magazine journalism. While in school, I was a reporter and columnist at the university’s daily newspaper and completed an internship at a food and wine magazine in Portland, Oregon (my home town!) After graduating, I became the Assistant Editor at Portland’s PDX Magazine – a publication I enjoy reading to this day. Most recently, I worked as a reporter and editor at the American Press, a daily newspaper in Lake Charles, Louisiana. While each of my past work experiences were satisfying, not one compares to the personal fulfillment I’ve gained

Publisher/Designer Mark Pointer mark@stirpublishing.com Editor in Chief Natasha Chilingerian natasha@stirpublishing.com Photo Editor Brad Allen brad@stirpublishing.com

through my work on stir. I want to thank all of the talented writers, photographers and designers who made this issue possible and I hope you enjoy the product of what has been many hours of hard work. And if I may reemphasize, this magazine is about you, so we will welcome your thoughts and ideas about our first issue. If you have something to share, please drop me an email at natasha@stirpublishing.com. Best wishes, Natasha Chilingerian

Graphic Designer/ Photographer Shawna Simmons shawna@stirpublishing.com

Contributing Writers Shayna Katzman, Kristen Therrell, Kristy Quattrone, Susan Levi-Wallach, Shannon Wilder, Anne Postic, Chuck Walsh, Tony Lee, Katie Alice Cox and Tige Howie

Director of Sales and Marketing Veronica Staub veronica@stirpublishing.com

Contributing Photographers Melinda Register and Matt Riley

Editorial Intern Stephanie Flynn intern@stirpublishing.com

Stir Publishing 2615 Devine St., Columbia, SC 29206 803.233.3797

1520 main st suite 1e tel 803 988 10 65 COLU MB I A

[scene]

Jenny Thompson: The Bombshell Biker Interview by Stephanie Flynn Photography by Brad Allen

Meet the salon owner with an attitudepacked ride Tell us about Bombshell Salon. I’ve owned the salon for seven years. Our services include cuts and color, skin services, facials and waxing. The salon almost feels out of place in Columbia, it’s more a taste of New York’s East Village. My heavily tattooed image and the unique, artistic salon have helped me to stand out. I have done really well. What type of bike do you own? A 1999 Ducati Monster…chopped. When did you first become interested in bikes? When I was 10 years old and riding a tiny Honda 5 (the Honda XR50, a dirt bike). As a woman and the owner of a primarily feminine business, are people shocked when you roll up on your bike? Yes, I get way too much attention. It’s probably because of how I look too with all the tattoos. I kind of stick out in this part of the country, here in the Bible Belt. How do you think your motorcycle reflects your personal style and personality? Oh, it’s a direct reflection.

Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel 1400 Main Street Main and Washington Streets

803.988.1400 fax: 803.251.6464 www.sheraton.com stir

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[love & money] Slayin’ It! Financial advice by Tige Howie e honest: We all have demons, dragons and dirty secrets. Some we create, but most are just a daily part of that unfair thing called life. Either way, they have to be dealt with, overcome and destroyed for the long-term good of ourselves and those who depend on us. Yeah, yeah, you’ve heard this from yo mama, a coach or infomercial time and time again but what does it really mean for you and your financial plan? Well, let me tell you a quick story about a guy whose underwear I like to wear. He graduated college with little debt and a great job making good money. In no time, he had strong savings, some investments, a swank bachelor pad and a wad of Benjamins for pocket change. At a meeting with a financial advisor, the advisor commented that the guy was doing the right things and that he wished he would have done the same at the guy’s age because he’d likely be much better off if he had. So the guy, now with an inflated checking account and ego to match, keeps moving forward in life but at some point starts spending more, not investing or saving and acquiring things so he’ll be cooler than his friends. Hey, it was all good, he was sure he’d make more later and all would be well. Yeah, right! You know the rest, Mr. Big Pimpin’s spending G’s caught up with him and he created a problem that was much harder to overcome than it was to create. The good news is, he slayed it and moved forward. The bad news: He’d be much farther along had he listened to the advisor and maintained his discipline. If you haven’t figured it out, the guy’s underwear I like to wear is

my own and this was a lesson I learned the hard way in the years just after college. So, whatever dragon, demon or obstacle is in your way, attack it now and keep these principles in mind: 1. Money alone cannot make you happy. 2. Your attitudes will affect how much you can earn and save. 3. The most important factor of financial success is behavior, not income. 4. Using credit to acquire stuff you can’t afford is a never ending mistake. 5. Start your financial journey NOW, regardless of the circumstances. 6. Planning ahead matters. 7. Your financial journey is a marathon — not a sprint. By the way: Boxer-briefs. Tige Howie is a financial advisor for First Command Financial Planning in Columbia.

Lovin’ It! Love advice from Behind the Bar

Interview by Stephanie Flynn

What is the worst pick-up attempt you’ve ever witnessed at the bar? Apart from degrading lines such as “How are the pups?” that have been thrown at me, there was one night when this guy walked up to a girl and “accidentally” knocked her drink out of her hand. Yes, this moron actually knocked the drink out of her hand on purpose. After doing so, he followed up with an apology and asked if he could buy her another one, then suggested that she sit at the table with his friends so he could get to know her better. Let’s say the guy was genuinely interested in getting to know her better. How could this have been done differently? First of all, girls don’t like guys who blatantly walk up to hit on us. Our first thought is that they must be drunk. If you are really interested, then try starting out with subtle conversation. Then offer to buy us a drink once we actually need another one. It will feel like Bartender: Amanda Dorsi, Red Hot Tomatoes the connection happened naturally rather than forcefully. Also, if you get turned down, please just walk away. Many females go out to the bar to spend time with their friends. You may get turned away simply because she is in a deep conversation or upset about a personal issue. Who knows — maybe next time she will be the one pursuing you when she is ready!

GIVE HIM WHAT

[ask]

HE WANTS

What in the hell is that? Every time I drive by the corner of Park and Senate Streets in the Vista, I notice this old tower that looks like a big cement block. I hear it used to be a training site for firefighters. What’s the story behind it, and are there any plans for future use? -Mike Patterson, Shandon Thanks for asking, Mike, as we have also been wondering about this mysterious “cement block” ourselves. Well, the rumors you heard are true – the tower was once used as a training site for firefighters. The tower was constructed in approximately 1953 and the Columbia Fire Department occupied the structure in addition to the adjacent fire station, which went up just before the tower did. Columbia Fire Department employees worked in the station and training tower until moving to their current location at 1800 Laurel St. in October 1995. John Reich, the current state fire marshal who worked in the old station and tower for 20 years, shared a few of his memories of the buildings with stir. It turns out there was more to the space than meets the eye, as many firefighters believed it was haunted. “There were stories about doors opening and closing,” Reich says. “I remember laying in bed, and we could hear the lockers slamming shut. They said it was the old (deceased) fire chief working the halls upstairs.” The Columbia Fire Department also ran a shop next door to the station where fire trucks were manufactured. The building still stands and now consists of office spaces. After fire department employees said goodbye to the supposed ghost-infested space, apartment development and management company Capitol Places Development purchased the old station and tower, and an exciting future is in store for the structures. The former station will soon be transformed into a retail and commercial space, which will include the new office space for architecture firm Stevens & Wilkinson. We’re particularly excited about the building’s second primary tenant, Taste of the South, which will bring a wine shop and tasting room, cooking school, gourmet deli and gourmet food products shop to the first floor of the former station. As for the tower, Tom Prioreschi of Capitol Places Development says specific plans are still undetermined at this point, but the tower will soon be home to commercial or residential tenants. In any case, we hope the spirit of the old fire chief will have retired from the space for good prior to the new tenants’ move-in days! — Natasha Chilingerian

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[focus]

you’ve come a long way... hat’s what we, the staff of stir, have to say to the city of Columbia (well, that is, if Columbia were a person we could talk to). Take a good look around the next time you’re out and about, and let us know if you don’t agree. We have wine clubs. Cigar bars. Martini bars. Drag queens. Roller derby girls. High fashion. The list definitely doesn’t stop there, and it’s still growing. To illustrate this renaissance of retail, restaurants, clubs and activities, we talked to the people behind some of our favorite concepts to find out what they’re doing and how they feel Columbia has come into its own as a destination. On the topic of Columbia’s establishment of an identity, Mark Plessinger, owner of Frame of Mind: The Art of Eyewear says, “It’s the heart of the state, and the rest of the state functions off of us. What’s changed is a mental attitude. You go to the Vista and see people going out and having a good time — that didn’t happen before.” Adds Larry Hembree, owner of the Nickelodeon Theatre, “Despite what outsiders might think, we have great arts and great culture. There really is something to do on every night of the week here!” After our interviews were complete, we realized Hembree was definitely right. So let’s get right to it: Here are Columbia’s best businesses, clubs and activities (in our opinion) that either started with a bang, strayed from the norm or remained faithfully impressive throughout the years.

Written by Natasha Chilingerian, Shayna Katzman & Stephanie Flynn Photography by Brad Allen, Shawna Simmons & Melinda Register

the new

We were impressed by so many of Columbia’s new businesses, but unfortunately, we don’t have room to rave about them all, so here’s a sampling of some of our favorite new kids on the block. Look for coverage of other newbies in future issues! M Vista We know the dishes at Miyo’s, Miyo’s on Forest and M Café are scrumptious, but don’t expect more of the same at the company’s newest addition, which opened in late May. M Vista (701-C Lady St, 255-8884) chefs prepare contemporary Chinese cuisine with an emphasis on healthy, organic ingredients in a swanky atmosphere, complete with bamboo, fountains and a square-shaped bar where colorful martinis are served. “We don’t want to repeat what we’ve already done,” owner Michelle Wang says. “We want to do something that’s better, more beautiful and healthier.” Wang, a native of Shanghai, China, says she visits her old stomping grounds several times a year and takes notes on food trends to ensure her customers’ experiences are as authentic as possible. Wang adds that Chinese food is misrepresented in many restaurants, but not at M Vista, where guests can enjoy guiltless, true-to-China cuisine and get the upscale cocktail lounge feeling at the same time. “It’s a great place to meet friends, have a drink and mingle,” she says. “It brings a little bit of Shanghai and Beijing to Columbia.” — NC

The Cigar Box Sigmund Freud said, “Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar,” but Scott Mechling, owner of The Cigar Box (2910 Rosewood Dr, 988-1423, thecigarbox.biz) says, “Not all cigar shops are the same.” Mechling has an eye for business. He returned to Columbia (his home town), from North Carolina with his family in 2006 with his mind set on a commercial endeavor in the Rosewood community. He found a central Rosewood Drive location — the run down former Petrel Home Furnishings building — which he swiftly renovated and refurbished. It’s now home to the 5th Avenue Deli, Cock ‘n’ Bull Pub and the Columbia Tai Chi Center. While he worked at finishing the building, he says he always had the idea of The Cigar Box in the back of his mind. The cigar aficionado hoped to find enough room in the building to accommodate and establish a high-end cigar shop complete with a humidor and smoking lounge, and in January 2008, his idea became a reality. The store is kitted out with luxurious, antiquated and upholstered leather couches and armchairs that tempt patrons to sink right in. It’s an ideal, intimate setting in which to sit back, relax and enjoy cigars. While Mechling says, “The cigars will testify they are my number one priority,” his patrons are a close second. His key concern is keeping the climate just right, which results in top notch smoke. The dimly lit lounge area inside The Cigar Box exudes authentic gentleman’s club/smoking den appeal. “Patrons open the wooden doors and tell me they can’t believe they are still in Rosewood!” Mechling says. “I have great appreciation for good cigars and I really enjoyed smoking inside specialty cigar shops in North Carolina. When I returned to Columbia there was nothing in the city close to the quality of the shops I grew used to. This made me want to open one myself.” — SK

Scott Mechling

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Frame of Mind: The Art of Eyewear The days of choosing from boring frames in your optometrist’s office are over in Columbia. Frame of Mind: T he Art of Eyewea r ( 15 20 Main St, 98 8-1 065 , artofeyewear.com) specializes in high fashion frames by European labels that can’t be found anywhere else in town (Belgium’s Theo, France’s Anne et Valentin and Germany’s ic! berlin). Not only that, but the shop carries handbags, jewelry and paintings by local artists and designers and hosts monthly art shows. “Eyewear is as much an accessory as it is a medical necessity, and we go toward the accessory end of it,” owner Mark Plessinger says. “We’re trying to change the Mark Plessinger face of Columbia and push the design element. We see eyewear as an art form.” Plessinger’s modern, sleek space — which includes a winding metal staircase and an upstairs loft — appears too cosmopolitan for Columbia to some, but Plessinger says his goal is to be a catalyst for artistic growth in the city. “Someone said to me, ‘This doesn’t belong here, this looks like it should be in California,’” he says. “But I took that as the biggest compliment. Columbia has become more accepting of design and individuality. We see it as a wave, and we want to be on the front side of that wave, as an instigator.” — NC

Cellar on Greene The ears of wine lovers will certainly perk up when they hear the news of this opening. Cellar on Greene (2001-D Greene St, 343-3303, cellarongreene.com), an all-in-one wine shop, tasting room and wine bar from the owner of Mr. Friendly’s and Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar debuted Labor Day weekend. By day, Cellar on Greene will offer tasting flights and a wealth of wines for sale, and by night, the shop will transform into a low key, casual lounge where patrons can continue to sample wines and indulge in wine-friendly foods such as olives and cheeses. Owner Ricky Mollohan says his customers will have the opportunity to purchase wines that are not typically available in Columbia, such as German Rieslings, sparkling wines, rare and vintage bottles and varieties from Austria, Spain and South America. “We don’t want to go after the brands that made other shops, such as Green’s and Morganelli’s, popular,” he says. “We want to bring in the hard to find, lesser known wines.” To start, Cellar on Greene will be open from 10am to 5pm Monday through

F Stop After realizing there was a void in the Columbia photographic community, Grant Robertson and Aaron Johnson opened F Stop (936 Harden St, 771-2732, fstop camerashop.com) with a vision of keeping film photography alive. F Stop offers a public darkroom, a fully equipped lighting studio and inexpensive equipment for photographers with all levels of experience. “I believe it will become harder to find places such as this,” Robertson says. “Digital has its place as far as being quicker and cheaper after the initial cost, but there will always be a demand for film among artists.” The owners’ dream is to make F Stop the center of the Columbia photography community. They will be hosting competitions, events and classes to aid in that effort. (Look for a Civil War cinematography workshop soon!) “A lot of people have been really excited,” Robertson says. “We have received tremendous support.” Robertson and Johnson invite anyone interested in F Stop to come by and chat over a free cup of coffee. — SF Grant Robertson

the alternative

All things progressive and different are becoming more and more common in Columbia — here’s a slice of the businesses we find most interesting. Who knows, they may one day become classics!

Female Impersonators at PT’s Cabaret & PT’s 1109 Miss Alexia Valentine and Miss Carla Cox are two insanely fabulous and fearlessly dressed lip-syncing, show-stopping drag queens. Fluttering faux lashes and strutting in sky high heels, these female impersonators throw caution to the wind and dress as they like with no apologies to anyone. Both enjoy glamorously participating in events such as charity benefits, SC Gay Pride and drag pageants and have been cast as “Main Time Girls” at PT’s Cabaret (1101 Harden St, 758-6090) and PT’s 1109 (1109 Assembly St, 253-8900, pts1109.com), where they can be found at least three nights a week. In a flurry of glitter, sequins, gold lame, feathers, panty hose and tulle as well as enough MAC makeup to fill a department store, the bold, brazen pair turns 90 minutes of getting ready for the night into an art form. “Every girl loves to dress up!” giggles Carla Cox — a cosmetology student by day and PT’s performer by night — while striping her cheekbones with bronzing powder. Alexia Valentine is also a student (working towards a nursing degree) who juggles a barista job with her entertaining (and loves it!) In addition, Cox and Valentine recently joined drag queen KiKi DeVille to create their very own cabaret night, “Thirsty KiKi Thursday.” Every other week, the trio entertains a vodka soaked crowd (vodka drinks cost less than $2 all night) at PT’s Cabaret to R&B (Whitney, Janet, Mariah), Broadway tunes (Rent is a favorite) and some country music. There is more to drag performing than feather boas and cocktails — it can be a form of self expression, representing empowerment, freedom of thought and creativity. Cox says when she was first “coming out,” PT’s was the only place in Columbia where gay people could go and enjoy being themselves. She believes that if Columbia’s openly gay population received more exposure, their lifestyles would become a part of everyday, “normal” culture, as in larger cities. “I had friends that had never even met a gay person before, but I invited them to PT’s and 1109 and they came and loved it!” Cox says. “Exposure is what it takes to discover that someone who seems different is actually just like you.” — SK

Alexia Valentine and Carla Cox

Sid & Nancy Sid & Nancy (743 Saluda Ave, 779-6454, myspace.com/sidandnancyin5points), provides much more than your average retail experience. This store exudes the spirit of Gary Oldman’s movie Sid & Nancy, the cool, modest and unconventional love story about a guy and a girl that featured studded leather bracelets, fishnet stockings, studded belts, full zipper pants, motorcycle jackets, tiaras and every imaginable variation of plaid; it shaped fashion for years to follow. Since opening in 2007, its Columbia namesake is set to do the same. Owner Debbie McDaniel opened the “invested inventory” store more than sixteen years after opening her high-end, local consignment store Revente (Sid & Nancy’s sister store) with help from Heather Craig, who is now the general manager for both stores. They realized Columbia needed a resale shop that accepted clothing for a younger client base, alternative fashion labels and vintage pieces. Sid & Nancy was then born; it was both inspired and supplied by rockers, mods, punks, bikers and local scene stealers. Rather than focusing on the latest trends, Sid & Nancy encourages individuality and thrives off of customers who create a style of their own. They sell new and recycled men’s and women’s clothing, plus new jewelry, handbags, gifts and accessories. For those looking to sell, be advised that goods sold here have more in common with designs Vivienne Westwood created for the Sex Pistols than what you’d find on the band’s post-show mosh pit floor, so don’t bring in any old junk if you want the staff to make you an offer. Items brought in can also be donated to the Hand Middle School Foundation on customers’ behalf, which provides clothing to needy families and children. — SK

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Devine Street Tattoo Tattoo artist Eric Michalovic, who previously inked customers at Body Rites, recently opened a new shop with fellow tattoo artist Jonathan Cheston that not only offers kick ass tattoos, but a comfortable, creative atmosphere as well. “We want to inspire people to think freely and think for themselves, and not just pick a design off of the wall,” Michalovic says of Devine Street Tattoo (4451 Devine St, 782-0753, myspace.com/devinestreettattoo), which opened in August. “We have designs on the wall, but they’re there to inspire. We want people to think creatively and openly when it comes to choosing a design. There’s a warm, welcoming lobby, and we’re not looking to tattoo you the day you walk in, so you won’t feel any of that pressure.” Michalovic can etch pretty much everything, but his style specialties are traditional Japanese, American traditional, photo realism and portraiture. The Portland, Maine native says he chose to set up shop in Columbia because of the opportunity to fill a niche that didn’t exist. “I realized that I could make something really cool here,” he says. “There isn’t anything like (my shop) here. I have opportunities here that I wouldn’t have if I were in a big city.” — NC

Columbia Quad Squad After seeing the Lone Star Roller Girls of Austin, Texas in action five years ago, Dena Weber decided Columbia needed a roller derby league. In 2005, Eric Michalovic she posted a flyer about starting a squad, and today, the Columbia Quad Squad (columbiaquadsquad.com) has about 30 members and an as yet undefeated season. Roller derby, an aggressive contact sport that takes place on an oval roller skating track, is often associated with feminism and a punk/DIY aesthetic. Weber says the women of the Columbia Quad Squad not only represent the “alternative girls” but have gained a tremendous amount of power both on and off the track. “The women who play roller derby are usually not the ones who were cheerleaders, played team sports or were on the pep rally,” Weber says. “They were those alternative girls who hung out in the back, listened to weird music and smoked cigarettes. It’s an aggressive sport, and I’m teaching them how to hit their best friends and not say I’m sorry.” The Columbia Quad Squad is currently traveling regionally and holding home bouts (bouts = competitions in roller derby terms) for their first full season. Want to see the action for yourself? Catch the girls in Athens, Georgia vs. Classic City on Sep. 21 and at home vs. the Charlotte Rollergirls on Oct. 19 (visit their Web site for more information). “I think Columbia has enjoyed us immensely,” Weber adds. “It’s empowered each and every one of us.” — NC

Hip Wa Zee Forget Party City. When it comes time to do your Halloween costume shopping, we think the personalized service and supercharged creativity found within the walls of Hip Wa Zee (940 Harden St, 376-1500) is the way to go. Kellie Rego opened the store nearly nine years ago with business partner Leslie Minard, and they’re especially popular in October for their costumes and clothing representing all time periods, from cave men and women outfits to space age get-ups. “We both have a passion for vintage and costumes,” Rego says of herself and Minard. “I grew up loving old movies and the fashions in them, and I started shopping at thrift stores at a young age and building a collection of clothing.” The ladies typically order costumes from companies and obtain vintage clothing through wholesale sellers and estate sales. Rego stresses that Halloween isn’t the only time Hip Wa Zee is busy — some customers enjoy wearing vintage clothing year round, and theme parties bring shoppers in regularly to search for the perfect ’70s, ’80s, pimp or ho outfit, to name a few. Rego adds that in a state that’s often labeled as straight-laced and conservative, Hip Wa Zee adds a much needed splash of eccentricity. “We need to be here, and I’m glad we’re here,” she says. “We bring a little color to Columbia.” — NC

the classic The mainstays — Columbia wouldn’t be Columbia without them. We couldn’t include everyone, but here’s a few we can’t live without. Goatfeathers “Goatfeathers are the distractions, sidelines and deflections that take a man’s attentions from his own business and keep him from getting ahead,” Ellis Parker Butler wrote in his humorous little book back in 1918. More recently, Jeff Helsley, the owner of Goatfeathers (2017 Devine St, 256-3325), inscribed this quote on the opening page of his menu. Overall, it provides a fitting introduction to the eccentric, stylish and dimly lit Five Points establishment. And coincidently, the menu is about the size of a book and includes a selection of eighty wines by the glass and around sixty beers by the bottle. Manager Orlando Patterson (or O.P., as everyone calls him) has tried them all, and he’s always eager to help when customers want to try something new (“But no coozies!” he jokes). Goatfeathers combines restaurant, coffee shop, cigar lounge, curio, wine bar, art gallery, pub and living room into one, all under many twinkling strings of fairy lights. The clientele also reflects the eclectic character of the menu and decor. Everyone from artists and musicians to media types and bankers (and even the odd celebrity) can be seen here because “everyone who is cool knows about Goatfeathers,” O.P. says. And the staff? The “Goat Girls” are not your typical dourfaced servers. They are apparently the topic of late night fantasies for some patrons. With the help of beautiful women, alcohol and a lot of personality, Goatfeathers has (so far) been “keeping Columbia and the world distracted for over 27 years.” We imagine this is just the beginning. — SK Orlando Patterson (“O.P.”)

Gervais and Vine It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly10 years since this Vista spot serving gourmet tapas and fine wines opened (the big anniversary will be in April 2009 — look for details on their big blowout in a future issue of stir.) Owner Kristian Niemi says he started the restaurant to bring a concept to Columbia that he felt the city needed. “I opened Gervais and Vine because there was nothing like it in town,” he says. “There was no place in town where you could get small plates and a large selection of good wine.” While both men and women can be found at Gervais and Vine (620-A Gervais St, 799-8463, gervine.com) any night of the week, Niemi says it’s the ladies who truly “get” the concept of small plates. Men seeking bigger portions flock to another Columbia classic that Niemi opened, Mr. Friendly’s. “Before Mr. Friendly’s, there wasn’t a place for cutting edge comfort food in an atmosphere where you don’t have to wear a suit and tie,” Niemi says of the spot for New Southern cuisine. You could certainly say that Niemi is on a roll in this city as a restaurateur. He helped open Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar, a New American restaurant, and look for his rustic Italian restaurant, Rosso, on Forest Drive in the Publix shopping center in December, which will feature dishes cooked in a wood-burning oven and grill. And restaurant #5 — an as yet unnamed French bistro that will open in the Vista’s Gallery 701 building — is also in the works. — NC

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The Nickelodeon Theatre “Can you believe that the Nick will be celebrating a 30th birthday in January?” Larry Hembree, the executive director of the Nickelodeon Theatre (9 37 Mai n St, 2 54-34 33, ni ckelo deon.o rg ), exclaims. The Nickelodeon Theatre (or “the Nick”) has been South Carolina’s only nonprofit cinema since 1979. Two University of South Carolina Media Arts students set the “reels” in motion 29 years ago with their desire to see more classical films projected onto the big screen. “They just started renting this building and running 16mm films in black and white,” Hembree says. “People just went nuts for it! Then the Nick just caught on from there. It evolved in its own organic way.” The Nick currently sits in its original storefront location, but not for much longer. With a capital campaign and massive renovation plans for the old Fox/State Theater currently underway, the Nick will re-open bigger and better than ever in a huge Main Street space a block away from the Columbia Museum of Art. In its new space, the Nick will include two theaters, a grand bar, a coffeehouse, event space and all the modern frills, bells and whistles fit to satisfy the growing local indie crowd. “People never realize that Columbia, South Carolina — such a stereotypical Southern city — could actually support an indie art house cinema for so many years and every night of the week!” Hembree says. He adds that our local scene regularly blows several international industry cool kids away — particularly those who visit for the Indie Grits Film Festival, now in its third year. Apparently, they keep coming back for more. — SK

Dianne’s on Devine One could say that Dianne’s on Devine (2400 Devine St, 254-3535, diannesondevine.com) is the epitome of classic — the atmosphere is reminiscent of an old time, booth-filled New York restaurant, caricatures of regulars hang on the restaurant’s walls and on top of that, the establishment has been in business for 20 years. Owner Dianne Light recently implemented a few changes to attract a younger crowd, such as colored tablecloths, lower prices and $0.50 oysters on the half shell on Wednesdays, which she says reeled in the 20-somethings right away. “We have the reputation that this is where you go once a year on your anniversary, but we want people to know that it’s casual,” Light says. The restaurant first opened on Assembly Street with a limited menu; six years later, it moved to its current location on Devine Street and simultaneously hired chef Billy Prato, who developed the restaurant’s Italian fusion menu. Two years ago, the business acquired the building next door, which is referred to as the “East Wing” and is open on weekdays for lunch. Dianne’s on Devine is popular among corporate luncheon, birthday party and rehearsal dinner planners, but most of all, it’s known for its Cheers-like, neighborhood vibe. “We’re very personal,” Light says. “Some of our regulars will come in at 4pm, an hour before we open, and help us set up.” — NC

The Whig Dim lighting, wooden booths, random objects including a video game of Space Invaders and a cozy vault turned side room conglomerate into eccentricity in this basement of a bar. Located at the bottom of a steep flight of stairs on the corner of Main and Gervais Streets, The Whig (1500 Main St, 931-8852, thewhig.org) is a place to go when you’re dying to escape commercialism. “The idea was to have no TVs and no beer signs, so people would have no choice but to interact,” says Jonathan Robinson, who owns The Whig with Dino Pournaras and Phill Blair. “It has a 1920s, gothic, naturalist look. You come down here and you can’t tell what year it is. It’s timeless.” Daily specials, including $1 pizza slices and $2 house liquor on Mondays, $0.50 tacos on Tuesdays and $2 pints on Wednesdays draw crowds regularly at The Whig. The bar recently obtained a pizza oven and cooks are beginning to focus on their pies, which feature homemade sauce and dough. Clientele runs the gamut — as bartender Matt Thompson says, The Whig gets everyone from rich folks to punk rock kids. “Dino and I wanted to have a bar that was not just for 21 year olds or old men,” Robinson says. “We wanted a bar where a bunch of kids could mingle with 50-year-old bohemian artists.” Adds cook Alex Coco, “Everyone’s honest and can sit and drink with each other no matter who they are.” — NC

Adriana’s While many local coffee shops are closing left and right, Adriana’s (721 Saluda Ave, 799-7595) remains unshaken by the Starbucks phenomenon. It’s not only a place for an amazing iced cappuccino or grilled chicken panini — it has become a local hangout catering to a melting pot of visitors. “Many people come out to support a local coffee shop where they know their money will go directly back into the community,” manager Travis Poole says. “We constantly have USC alumni stopping in to tell us how glad they are that we’re still here.” Sunday brunch (10am-4pm) has become a Five Points cultural event. For the past year, Sunday regulars have been flocking in rain or shine. Adriana’s is also one of the few places in Columbia that shows European soccer and rugby matches. Weekends become crazy with fans once the games start. “It has become a place to be seen in Columbia,” says Poole. “People stop in every day just to see who might be here. It’s a great place to meet up with someone to enjoy a unique dish.” — SF

Art Bar When we’re sick of staring at crowds of good ol’ boys smoking cigars, where do we go? Art Bar (1211 Park St, 9290198, artbarsc.com), of course! This 16-year-old establishment is always at the top of our lists for its progressive attitude (they’re very gay friendly), late nights on Fridays (’til at least 4am!), rockin’ music and raucous karaoke nights. Owner Clark Ellefson, who also runs the design studio Lewis+Clark, is often credited for helping to reinvent the Vista, beginning with his wild warehouse Halloween parties in the 1980s. Ellefson tells stir that he opened the bar in 1992 as a latenight place for urbanites and it just sort of turned into the spot of choice for the alternative crowd. He credits Art Bar’s success to the devoted, talented people involved, from the bartenders to the improv actors who perform there. “We wanted something that had a more urban feel to it,” he says. “We thought Columbia had an urban scene, but there wasn’t a place for people like that. We have some great people who are a part of Art Bar, and we’ve had a lot of input from the community. Our style attracts some interesting activities. There have been a lot of people who added a lot to the experience by bringing things to the party.” Other aspects of Art Bar that we love include the monthly Art Bar Players night — two hilarious hours of improv comedy — VerseWorks’ poetry open mic nights on Tuesdays, the bar’s earth friendly stance (they’re adamant about recycling) and their creative shooter list (which includes pineapple upside-down cake). — NC

Blue Martini We don’t know about you, but we love exquisite martinis, and Blue Martini (808 Lady St, 256-2442) has successfully given us our fix for the past nine years. That’s why we were ecstatic to hear this summer that the Vista establishment would be open five days a week — not just three. Blue Martini, which has been open Tuesdays through Saturdays since Aug. 5, features live entertainment, elaborate martinis and sleek, sexy interior design. It’s a bit hard to find the tucked away front door the first time, but the search is well worth it (“It’s our little secret,” owner Karen Schoolmeester says of the location. “But at least you only have to look for it once.”) Schoolmeester says Blue Martini’s success is due to the combination of quality martinis and entertainment. “We go overboard with our martinis,” she says. “We have a little mermaid that we put in the glass for one of our drinks.” With the bar’s new schedule comes some exciting theme nights and specials, such as Filthy Trivia on Tuesday nights complete with Xrated martinis, funk fusion jazz nights on Fridays and $10 all you can drink house liquor on Wednesdays. “We want to have some fun,” Schoolmeester says. “We don’t want to be boring in here.” — NC

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[feast]

A Match Made in Heaven Local beer and wine aficionados offer food and drink pairing tips for beginners

f the word oenophile has never crossed your tongue, then chances are, neither has a big bowl of buttered popcorn washed down with a glass of chardonnay.

It’s time to give your vocabulary, and more importantly, your taste buds, an update. Luckily, you don’t have to be an oenophile (who is a wine connoisseur, by the way) to understand and enjoy wine and food pairings. With a little knowledge and a lot of trial and error, this ancient art could become your newest hobby. First, don’t be intimidated. Kristian Niemi, owner of Gervais & Vine (620-A Gervais St, 799-8463, gervine.com), admits that there is always a new combination to learn – whether you’re an amateur or a wine expert. “The number of combinations is infinitesimal and it’s an enjoyable education that tastes good,” he says. “Not many disciplines can make that claim.” Niemi suggests starting with the basics. That is, pairing white wines with lighter dishes and red wines with heavier dishes. But don’t stop there. As with most rules, there are exceptions. For Niemi, it all comes down to the sauce. “I’ve had spectacular results pairing reds with light fish dishes that were finished with red wine sauces or earthy mushroom sauces,” he says. “Conversely, one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had included a giant porterhouse steak grilled over a wood fire served with a Sancerre (a sauvignon blanc from France) made by Didier Dagenau. That wine was as big as any red I’ve ever had and paired with the steak absolutely perfectly.” The number of wine choices alone can be overwhelming, so it’s not a bad idea to start sampling at a restaurant before trying pairings at home. Gervais & Vine hosts a wine dinner nearly every Tuesday, offering a two-course meal that is designed to accompany six wines. For those who want to try more, the restaurant serves close to fifty wines available by the glass.

Written by Kristen Therrell

Photography by Brad Allen

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Even with all of the general wine and food pairing guidelines that exist, the true key to finding your own perfect pairing comes with trying new things. Niemi’s “Big Bang” moment came at a wine dinner in Minnesota, where he was served a course of Roquefort cheese, walnuts and vintage port. “It was like fireworks,” he says. “I mean, each was good in its own right, but together it was simply jaw-dropping.” Once you discover some favorite pairings and feel a little more comfortable, then share the fun by hosting a wine dinner at home. Ask your guests for pairing suggestions or as Niemi suggests, visit the Web site of Wine Spectator and epicurious.com for extra help. With all of the information on this subject that’s available, Niemi believes that “most people hosting a wine and food pairing party should have no trouble putting together a top-notch experience for their guests.” Don’t be afraid to bend the rules and remember that friends, food and wine is always a winning combination. Well, that is, if you like wine. If your taste buds prefer beer, you can still get the food pairing experience – and it’s an experience that has recently been getting more buzz. Niemi attributes the growing trend of beer dinners to the popularity of microbrews and the countless flavor profiles they exhibit. “Lots of times, the best pairings just make you shake your head, like oysters and stout,” he says. “Who knew briny oysters would pair well with the same beer I love to pair with dark chocolate?” Though Niemi claims that beer and food pairings make wine and food pairings look like child’s play, others disagree. “It can be as simple or as complicated as you want to make it,” Gerald Jowers, a teacher at the University of South Carolina’s Wine and Beverage Institute, says. “You have to understand what a beer tastes like before pairing it with food. Beer is not just Budweiser.” Jowers, who has studied beer for about fifteen years, is also a certified beer judge and home brewer. He believes that beer is an especially perfect beverage to complement food because most foods are grain-based like beer. Beer pairing, like wine pairing, does not sport any unbreakable rules, but Jowers does advise that the intensity of the beer should match the intensity of the flavor with the main course. “Stout would work well with some roasted meats, but not with flounder. It would overwhelm it,” he says. “The whole purpose of pairing beer and food is to make the combination better than the parts.” Once again, as in wine pairings, you can find the perfect combinations through trial and error. Beginners should try out Flying Saucer (931 Senate St, 933-9997, beerknurd.com), a beer bar that offers about eighty taps and many more bottled beer selections and plays host to beer dinners. Looking for something a bit more bohemian? Head to downtown’s restaurant and brewery Hunter-Gatherer (900 Main St, 7480540). Owner Kevin Varner is a firm believer that beer and food pairings should not be hard because, in his opinion, “good beer goes with just about anything.” Beer samples are always available, as are four beers on tap: A wheat beer, a pale ale, an extra special bit-

ter beer and a rotating fourth choice. “I believe that people should drink and eat what they like together,” he says. “It’s different than wine in that it’s affordable to try anything on the menu. With beer, you can take more chances.” Due to Hunter-Gatherer’s small size, Varner says they have yet to host a beer dinner, but recommends Green’s Discount Beverage Store for those who want to try hosting one at home. “Get some of every beer that interests you and cook what you like,” he says. “Beer typically has less alcohol than wine, so you can try more kinds.” But, if you’re short on money and feeling a bit intimidated by all the choices, Jowers offers more specific advice: Decide on your courses and serve about four ounces of beer with each. “Salad, depending on the ingredients, usually goes great with a wheat beer,” he says. “Use richer ales with tomato-based soups. And for the main course, well, it all depends on the meat.” He suggests serving richer ales or Belgian beers with roasted meats and German beers with pork. The pairings for desserts are endless, but for a sure winner when it comes to chocolate, go with porters. As Jowers commented, beer really is more than Budweiser, but at the same time, it’s OK if your favorite combination is, and will always be, a Bud and a cheeseburger. But don’t rule out some BBQ and stout, or a lager with chicken salad. The selection of wines and craft beers available seems endless, and often complicated, but the experience will be as fun and tasty as you make it. Your “Big Bang” moment could still be yet to come.

fter reading the book He Said Beer, She Said Wine: Impassioned Food Pairings to Debate and Enjoy From Burgers to Brie and Beyond by authors Sam Calagione and Marnie Old, the owners of Mo Mo's have been inspired to host a tasting dinner and bring this debate to their restaurant. They've created a six course tasting menu and challenged Casey Lee from Advintage Craft Beers & Fine Wines of Charleston to pair a brew and a wine with each course. They're even going to keep a tally to determine the winner. The dinner, Brew vs. Vino, will be October 6 at 6:30pm. Call Mo Mo's at 252-2700 for details.

A few great wine pairings: • Corn (buttered on the cob, soup, as grits or popped) and chardonnay • Blue cheese and port • Goat cheese and sauvignon blanc

A few great beer pairings: • Grilled steak and an amber lager • Cheddar cheese and an English ale • Oysters and Guinness Stout

803.765.9982 • 2700

devine street • columbia sc 29205

www.shoptullulah.com stir

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[earn]

What Does it Take? Get your foot in the door. (and tell ‘em stir sent you.) Written by Katie Alice Cox

Photography by Brad Allen

ob hunting. Whether you’re looking to change careers, hoping to do great work and make a difference for clients and your community.” make a little more dough or just seeking more responsibility, the If your qualifications match, or at least they match in your eyes, it all search can mimic a dog chasing its tail, sometimes for dreaded starts with the resume. Otis says, “Resumes should be accurate and month after month. If past attempts to climb up the ladder have consistwithout typos.” ed of searching through a seemingly anonymous mega job site, submitEllen Woodoff, director of marketing and communications for the ting a resume through the cyberspace ether lands, crossing your fingers Columbia Museum of Art, agrees. “Cover letters are very important. and hoping for the best, take a Even when you’re e-mailing your hint from a few Capitol City hiring resume, don’t take any shortcuts. managers and human resources Don’t just put everything in the executives at some of Columbia’s body of your e-mail.” most desirable workplaces. With jobs in departments from What does it take to get your fundraising and membership to name on an office door, or at least curatorial and education staffs, on a cubicle, at Chernoff Woodoff agrees that the museum Newman, a marketing firm that’s is one of the Midlands’ most desirworked with heavyweights like able places to work. “Walking into Shell Oil Company and the an art museum every day is pretty Palmetto Pride campaign? An neat. There’s an opportunity to employer that’s fabled for leaving meet a lot of interesting people, job seekers feeling like it’s all about even people from around the who you know, it’s one of a few world that we might bring in for an Columbia advertising agencies exhibit or a lecture,” Woodoff says. that seem tough to crack. The museum’s high profile “Our clients come from every and prime Main Street location corner of the public and private don’t hurt either for those seeking sector,” says John Michael Otis, a glamorous job. That may explain an account manager who has why the development office been with the agency for eight recently received 150 applications years and was a Chernoff for an open position after posting Newman intern before that. “I’m the job on the museum’s Web site. constantly in awe of what we can And if the competition is that accomplish for clients when we steep, how can candidates set leverage the experience, talent themselves apart? and creativity we have here.” “A lot of people tend to talk However, combined with the about why they want to work in the Orlando and Charleston offices museum and how great it would John Miichael Otis of Chernoff Newman Chernoff Newman has over 65 be for them,” Woodoff says. “That employees, and those hoping to work at the agency are met with an doesn’t really stand out to us. We really want to know what you can anonymous e-mail address for the human resources department on the bring to the museum. People think this is a fun, laid back place to work. company’s Web site rather than detailed information about specific But it’s also a non-profit and we all wear several hats. You really have to open jobs. be qualified, and be ready to hit the ground running.” So, try your luck. “All applications are read and if a position is open, Emily Garrett, owner of Devine Street’s M Boutique, agrees that her the application is passed on to the appropriate person,” Otis says. “On sales staff also has to be committed to their work. “Don’t come interthe creative side, a degree in journalism, advertising, graphic design or view for a position and say you can’t work weekends. If you love retail, media arts is pretty much required. Beyond that, you need to want to that’s what it’s about. Be ready to work full throttle,” Garrett says.

Fashionable boutiques have a storied reputation for hiring a sales staff that looks like they stepped out of the pages of Vogue’s fall fashion issue. And most shoppers who’ve visited M Boutique usually notice that Garrett’s employees are well put together. But she insists, “Style is key, but I’m not looking for someone who is dressed in Gucci from head to toe.” Although Garrett does painstakingly hand pick her sales staff, her employees all have a few things in common. “I like some retail experience, strong personalities and a noticeable appreciation of fashion. If you don’t have that, there are many other girls out there who want a position in an upbeat boutique environment.” Like M Boutique’s visible location, the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports and Tourism, which encompasses the Columbia Regional Sports Council, the Columbia Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Columbia Regional Visitors Center and the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, has cool digs in the Vista. If you think location, location, location makes an entity a more desirable place to work, think again. It isn’t always the case. “Hiring is a lot of work, we have to be proactive,” says Barbara Haggray, vice president of finance and human resources for the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism. “And sometimes we even have to use a staffing service after posting the job on our Web site and advertising the position if we don’t have much response.” But Haggray does insist that every single resume and cover letter sent to the Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism is read. But wait, there’s more. “I also forward every resume to the manager or department head – all of them,” she adds. If that’s true, there’s a pretty good chance that those interested in promoting the Midlands might be called in for an actual interview. If you get

the call, take Haggray’s advice. “You’d be surprised how many candidates come in and ask what we do. You’d think that person would get on our Web site or research something about what we do.” If you find the Convention Center attractive, then Columbia architecture firm Watson Tate Savory, which has been responsible for historic renovations such as the South Carolina State Museum LEED-certified green building and such projects as Innovista, is definitely a desirable place to work. “There are no prima donnas in our group,” says Ginnie Watson, manager and wife of business partner Michael Watson. “Architects and designers are a breed unto themselves and very creative. And our physical office is very enjoyable.” With a completely renovated Washington Street, and an interior with skylights and original wood floors, furniture made of wheat board and bike racks to encourage employees to bike to work, Watson Tate Savory is an idyllic place to work no matter what position you’re interested in. True, most of the employees are registered architects and interior designers, but especially with a new office in Charlotte, the firm will be looking for more administrative staff. “Finding a good support person is not easy,” Watson says. In early August, the firm had an assistant/marketing support position open, which they advertised on the American Institute of Architecture Web site. But if you want to get your foot in the door at a seemingly popular place to work, each of these employers mentioned their internship programs. “Volunteering is a good way to get in over here,” says Woodoff, a former museum volunteer herself. “It’s a great way for everyone to get to know what you’ve got to offer.”

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[accessorize]

A Gentleman's Finest Your best local picks for a dresser top worth envying Written by Natasha Chilingerian Photography by Brad Allen

Think Rolex is as high-end as it gets for watches in Columbia? Think again. At Sandler's Fine Jewelry (471 Town Center Pl, Ste 13, 788-1590, sandlersjewelry.com) at the Village at Sandhills, you can place an exclamation mark on your already-refined image with a Sonata Cathedral Dual Time watch by Swiss manufacturer Ulysse Nardin. This complication is referred to as "The Boss' Watch" by Sandler's Fine Jewelry owners and can't be found at any other store in the Carolinas. Score this exclusive piece for $55,800 (a middle of the road price for Ulysse Nardin, as their watches range from $6,000-$750,000), and you'll truly be the one who stands out in the office. Nowhere near your price range? Hey, we can all dream (even better, we can all work toward owning the finer things in life). Sonata Cathedral Dual Time Alarm with countdown indicator. Dual time system, with instant time zone adjustor. Caliber-67. Diameter: 42 mm Case: 18-carat rose gold Dial: Silver Power-reserve: Approx. 42 hours Winding: Self-winding Water-resistant: 30 meters Crystal: Sapphire crystal Buckle type: Folding clasp Source: ulysse-nardin.com

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[cruise] [style]

To show what good can come from “playing the field” when it comes to finding your style and buying new clothes, we asked two willing male victims with two distinct styles to let us “stir” up their looks for a day. The results surprised everyone! A preppy grad student turned emo Occupation: USC Grad Student (Pharmacy School) Style: Preppy, polished, classic, collegiate. Uniform: Khakis (pants or shorts) worn with a solid color polo or oxford shirt, Sperry Top-Siders or Rainbow flip flops. When in doubt, he turns to a good pair of jeans. Money spent monthly on clothes: Too much (for a college budget). Where he shops: J. Crew, Gap, Half Moon Outfitters and Brittons. Routine: He showers with shampoo and conditioner, scrubs down with Old Spice body wash and finishes with face wash. He shaves every one to two days and brushes his teeth obsessively (more than the standard twice daily).

Kessel arrived at Bohemian dressed in khakis and a mint green button down, ready for his transformation. The girls at Bohemian chose to dress him in a pair of army green utility pants by Z Brand Jeans paired with a layered look on top. They placed a short sleeve black and grey polo shirt by Industry over a grey Project E Vintage T-shirt and covered it all with a Project E hoodie embellished with a funky skull design on the shoul-

ders. Leather cuffs and piles of electrical wire bracelets were stacked up both his wrists; he then got a chunky leather belt around his waist, leather and resin pendants for his neck and chunky silver rings on each thumb. To finish off, we gave him a sleek pair of rocker shades. Then, much to his surprise, our makeup artist liberally applied black guy-liner and shadow on his eyes to give him a smoky-eyed look.

“I feel overwhelmed!” he said. “Everything looks a little odd and a little different…I can’t wait to scrub my face.” He concludes that he could be forced to wear the clothes every day if he had to, but never the makeup. The girls at Bohemian swooned over our victim in his new look, but Kessel was not entirely convinced. He felt pretty certain none of his friends would recognize him (or want to hang out with him if they did). The poor thing was not even sure where he could hang out in his new duds. “How about The Whig?” we asked, to which he replied, “What’s that?” Kessel did admit, however, that he would wear the shirts again (if he received them as gifts) and that the skull-adorned hoodie really grew on him. By the end of the experiment, he actually considered buying it!

A laid back local rocker turned Ivy League preppy (but not too stiff)

A pair of designer frames from 20!20 Vision pulled together his new, polished look.

Occupation: Lead singer/songwriter and rhythm guitarist for Ed Lemon and the Get Rights Style: Edgy/vintage/grungy/thrift store chic. Uniform: T-shirt (from Goodwill) and ripped jeans with large knee holes (perhaps more holes than jeans), with boots or sneakers, snap button vintage shirts and cool, retro sunglasses. Money spent monthly on clothes: Usually $0, and sometimes up to $50. Where he shops: Comic book stores, music stores and record shops. “Hip Wa Zee is OK, but a little over priced. If I get lucky, I buy everything at Goodwill for $3.” Routine: When his hair is too “rat nesty,” he showers, tries to comb his hair, lets it dry and is done. Sometimes he sprays his girlfriend’s “frizz stuff” in it.

“Uncomfortable,” Lemon said, immediately untucking his shirt and releasing his long hair from the ponytail. “I never wear my hair pulled back. Involuntary hair movements help me get into the music.” Overall, he liked the new ensemble and said it was something he would definitely consider wearing again. In fact, this new look could have been a big winner for Lemon, aside from the lofty price tags. “Maybe if I become rich and famous I’ll buy expensive clothes, but right now I’m happy finding cool second hand stuff at Goodwill and Sid & Nancy,” he admitted. He really liked the corduroy jacket (despite the high temperature outside) he said it reminded him of the vintage cord jackets his dad wore in the 1970s. The jeans and dress shirt were also a hit, but then again, “I’m not so sure of this whole tucking in thing,” he said.

Lemon arrived at Brittons ready and willing to be suited, booted and dressed to the nines. “Did anyone bring me croakies?” Lemon joked. Perry Lancaster of Brittons selected a red and brown striped shirt by Italian label Marcello Sport, which was tucked into a pair of designer jeans by Los Angeles denim label Agave and matched with a Leather Island belt. He finished off Lemon’s new look with a velvet cut corduroy jacket from the new men’s line Kroon. Our makeup artist then combed his long curly hair back into a ponytail.

Fashion Credits: Cole Kessel: Twill utility pants, Z Brand, $72. Hoodie, Project E Vintage, $67. Leather belt, Silver Jeans, $32. Sunglasses, Batali, $35. Leather cuffs, Charlie’s Leather, $38 each. Electrical wire bracelets, Farafina, $12 each. Collared shirt, Industry, $73. Grey T-shirt (worn underneath), Project E Vintage, $37. Glass and resin pendant, $40. Silver rings, $21 each. All clothing and accessories available at Bohemian. Ed Lemon: Corduroy jacket, Kroon, $395. Jeans, Agave, $185. Belt, Leather Island, $75. Shirt, Marcello Sport, $155. Eye glasses, Guess, available at 20!20 Vision. Clothing and belt available at Brittons. Hair/makeup by Freya Katzman, using Benefit.

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[imbibe]

The

stir Cocktail

Welcome to stir’s bi-monthly cocktail column – an up close look at some of our favorite bartenders and their latest concoctions. In this issue, we introduce you to Justin Matthews of Mr. Friendly’s. Bottoms up! The Bartender Name: Justin Matthews Age: 30 Relationship status: Engaged to my baby mama Hometown: Columbia Education: Francis Marion University First gig: Perfecting my martini and pouring scotch at the Rhino Room. Current bar: Mr. Friendly’s. It’ll be four years in October. Celebrity sighting: Edward James Olmos, who played Lt. Martin Castillo on Miami Vice. He ordered margaritas while relaxing at the Friendly’s bar. When it came time to pay, he decided that the tip wasn’t important. Not cool. Least favorite Mr. Friendly’s regular: The Crazy Diet Coke Dude Hidden talent: Massage After work activities: Hanging with friends, grilling, hanging by the pool or doing anything outside. Poison of choice: Captain and Coke Tho ughts on the smoking ban: I didn’t mind the smoke, but it’s nice not to smell like it at the end of the day. Pet peeve(s): When someone I’ve never seen before asks, “What should I drink?” and washing glasses. Written by Kristy Ray Quattronne

Photography by Brad Allen

Peach, Tea & Mint Cocktail After one sip of this refreshing cocktail made of Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, peach puree and mint, you’ll feel like the lazy days of summer are not that far behind you. It’s served in a martini glass on the rocks, which makes for an ice-cold sip – something to be thankful for as temperatures remain warm in the early fall evenings. The combination of fruit and tea dates back to the early 1900s when it was known as Tea Punch in the Southern states. South Carolina was the first state to grow tea and the only state to ever produce it commercially. The Peach, Tea & Mint cocktail at Mr. Friendly’s encompasses all of these local elements, as it’s made with a fruit that’s more widely grown in South Carolina than in Georgia (known as the “Peach State”), as well as Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, which is distilled on Wadmalaw Island, located 30 miles from Charleston. This muscadine spirit is infused with American Classic Tea from the Charleston Tea Plantation. This cocktail can go down fairly quickly due to the familiar taste combination, so be careful not to drink too many in one sitting!

[listen]

For aspiring professional musicians, is living in Columbia a recipe for success or a dead end? Written by Tony Lee

o the general public, considering music as a vocation is as preposterous as aspiring to be a professional fire-eater in a circus side show. The average person is stunned to learn that a musician cannot only survive but also thrive, deriving an income from the performance of music and other music-related occupations. But, just how feasible is it to be a professional musician in Columbia? What advantages and/or disadvantages does our city present to these artists? I interviewed five individuals in the music industry who are from

Photography by Brad Allen

Columbia and either currently live here or decided to relocate in order to pursue their musical aspirations. These are not just any people; these are successful musicians who excel at what they do and are proud to say theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re from our city. Les Hall moved to Los Angeles in 2001 and has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s currently back in town working with the band Crossfade. He was kind enough to share some thoughts about being a professional musician in Columbia.

“

One of the great things about Columbia is that it’s relatively inexpensive to live here, which means you can make a decent living playing gigs without having to find a day job. Also, it’s a lot easier to get your feet wet because there’s not much top-notch competition for the gigs that are available. You can be relatively inexperienced and get some experience while making some money to live on. On the downside, there aren’t many people from whom to learn. If you want to make an impact in this business nationally, you’re not likely to find anyone around here who has done that already. So, you have to go somewhere else to learn from those people. There’s not a lot to see on a nightly basis either, only local musicians. While a lot of them are great, you’re not able to see Chick Corea at the jazz club downtown. You can’t underestimate the effect of being able to see guys like that. Also, national acts usually skip over Columbia when planning their tours, maybe because it’s more of a sports town and people generally won’t pay to see shows…I’m not sure. I would advise musicians to not sit around waiting until they feel they’re ready to make a move. Do it as soon as you can because you are only wasting your own time. The effect of being in a place that challenges you will force you to grow. Sell your equipment if you need to. Just do it already!

Endeavoring to be a musician is a course with few familiar landmarks. Unfamiliarity often leads to fear; in this case, the fear of the unknown means that specific advice regarding goals and expectations is not readily available. Although the age-old concept of working hard is a great beginning, the skill set required for success is much more nebulous. Joal Rush was born and raised in Camden, but Columbia is where he developed his sense of what direction his career would take. He has been touring non-stop for over four years now, relocating first to Atlanta and then to Charleston in order to combat complacency. His thoughts: People in Columbia, for the most part, don’t really seem to care about the music as much as they do going out and getting plastered at the bars...the most excitement about the music comes when some chuckle-head screams out, “FREEBIRD!!!” As a singer/songwriter who does a lot of solo performance, it’s tough trying to do everything yourself, i.e. booking, writing music and self-management. So, I would prefer to surround myself with a team of hardworking, trustworthy individuals who can devote part of themselves to keeping things moving strong with my music...but that’s easier said than done. My advice to local musicians is to work hard...it’s not ALL fun and games. Also, get as many people involved with your music as you can. Kenny McWilliams is the guitarist for the locally born, nationally touring band Baumer. He’s been recording and touring with them since their inception in 2004. Kenny’s insight:

The biggest advantage of being a musician in Columbia would be the fact that it’s a small town. It’s cool because even though it’s a pretty small town, we really have a great music scene – plenty of great people to play with and plenty of great places to play. There really are lots of opportunities for a working musician here. Of course, there are less industry people in small towns to take notice and send you to the next level. Packing out a club in Columbia means a lot less to the rest of the country than packing out a club in New York City or even Atlanta does. I think the biggest shock to me has been that in order to be successful, you have to do so much more than just play music. I have had to become competent at marketing, finances, and networking. It’s not just art. The “art” part of it is the most important part, but be willing to work hard and try things that seem to have nothing to do with the music. It’s not “selling out,” it’s making a living! I’m just doing what I love and working hard at it. I don’t think I would do anything differently. I love it here and have no plans to relocate. The unique vibrancy that exists in cities such as New York, Nashville and Los Angeles is such that each opportunity to perform is an audition for the next one. The irresistible need to cut one’s teeth leads young lions to places where the talent pool is deep enough to challenge their development. Kenneth Salters, a drummer born and bred in the Columbia area, made the move to New York City in 2006 to search for “more opportunities on a larger scale.” He took some time between gigs to share his experience: If you’re a local musician in Columbia, there’s a strong possibility that you’ll stay a local musician in Columbia. Not a lot of great opportunities come to Columbia on a regular basis; however, there’s an abundance of playing and teaching opportunities available to the musicians there. There’s at least a small market for almost every style of music in Columbia, so almost any musician can make a living if they spread themselves to an adequate number of avenues of music and music education. To pursue a career in music, you can never be too prepared, but it’s “what” you prepare that’s most important. I’m playing with more musicians and groups now than ever. The more groups I play with, the more I realize how important it is that I contribute an appropriate drum part that suits the emotion and vibe for that particular group…that’s production and orchestration, not technique. So, study and practice enough to be competent, but don’t neglect the compositional aspects of being a musician. The harder you try and the more effort you put in, the greater the reward will be. In this age of the music industry, nothing comes easy. Everything must be worked for. Music is something that you have to want to do… Fontaine is a singer/songwriter who relocated from Columbia to Los Angeles back in 2001. Her music has been featured in films and on the Showtime channel, all without the help of a corporate record label. Her words:

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“

When I think of being a musician in Columbia, the first thing that comes to mind is the “big fish in a small pond” scenario. I loved the intimacy of the city. While I definitely miss that, the conservative nature of the town is such that musicians don’t usually allow themselves to “dream big.” I could be wrong. Dreaming big is a very important thing. Music has to be something you love doing. Period. It can’t be about money or fame, because that’s so hard to come by these days, especially with what’s going on in the music industry. You just have to find a way to do it yourself. Buy the equipment you need, and find great musicians to work with. The best advice I can give to aspiring musicians in Columbia is to not get discouraged, and of course, dream big!

career and judge whether those objectives can be realized here. Staying here? Great! Let’s get to work. Remember: Being a musician is a word-of-mouth business, and in some ways it’s no different than being a plumber, as doing good work is your best marketing. Having a reputation of arriving on time, wearing the right clothes, being happy to be there and giving your best effort have more to do with success than both the level of your abilities and whatever delusions of grandeur you might foster do. While it’s not essential that your skills be world-class, the level and range of your competency increases your number of potential employers, so take the time to prepare yourself to be successful. It’s up to each of us to determine not only how we become successful, but also ultimately how our burgeoning city nurtures its population of talented musicians. May your gig calendar be full and all your bills paid.

My Two Cents Making a living in Columbia playing music is certainly possible. There are enough opportunities available to sustain our best and brightest musicians. The predicament we face is more about whether those same musicians can find fulfillment living here or whether they are drawn to other places seemingly more suited to their professional goals and needs. I suggest that any musician would be wise to sit down and write out a list of goals for his or her

Tony Lee is a professional musician living and working in Columbia. He’s currently teaching private drum lessons at Two Four Drum Studio and performing with the Don Russo Trio, the James Beresford Trio, Little Cat Z, Treadmill Trackstar and Charming Hala. Tony would like to acknowledge the invaluable input of John Riley from the Manhattan School of Music. You can contact Tony at tony@twofourstudio.com.

Elegance. Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel Main and Washington Streets Mezzanine Level 803.476.0271 Call for Reservations stir

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[cruise]

old vs. new

Written by Natasha Chilingerian Photography by Brad Allen

How the 2008 Range Rover stacks up against the 1995 classic model (Why? Because we wanted to.)

1995 Range Rover County Classic The 1995 County LWB was introduced in March of 1994 – the same year the 1995 Land Rover Discovery came on the market. Manufacturers delivered new 1995 County LWBs until December 1994. In January of 1995, the 1995 County SWB (shown here) was introduced, and dealers received new models through late that year. As late as May 1996, a few unsold Range Rover County Classics still sat on U.S. dealers’ lots. Specifications Curb weight: 4,628 lbs. (SWB), 4,807 lbs. (LWB) Gross vehicle weight: 6,019 lbs. Starting MSRP: $45,625 (SWB), $52,500 (LWB) Engine Type: Longitudinal 8-valve front all wheel drive Displacement: 3.9 liters (3,947 cc) (SWB), 4.2 liters (4,200 cc) (LWB) Bore x stroke: 3.7/2.8 in. (94/71.1 mm) (SWB), 3.7/3.3 in. (3.7/ 83.8 mm) (LWB) Compression ratio: 9.35:1 (SWB), 8.95:1 (LWB) Horsepower @ rpm: 182 hp @4,750 rpm (SWB), 200 hp @ 4,850 rpm (LWB) Torque: 232 lb. –ft. @ 3,100 rpm (SWB), 251 lb. –ft. @ 3,250 (LWB)

2008 Range Rover The 2008 Range Rover, while very similar to the 2007 model, gets a few upgrades including four-zone climate control, a redesigned armrest and new interior and exterior color options. This luxury SUV with plenty of off-road capabilities including adjustable air suspension first went on sale in July 2007. Specifications Curb weight: 5,698 lbs. (HSE), 5,842 lbs. (Supercharged) Max. weight: 6,834 lbs. Starting MSRP: $78,450 (HSE), $94,100 (Supercharged) Engine Type: Longitudinal 32-valve VB Displacement: 4.4 liters (4,394 cc) (HSE), 4.2 liters (4,197 cc) (Supercharged) Bore x stroke: 3.465/3.555 in. (88/90.3 mm) (HSE), 3.386/3.555 in. (86/90.3 mm) (Supercharged) Compression ratio: 10.5:1 (HSE), 9.1:1 (Supercharged) Horsepower @ rpm: 305 hp @ 5750 rpm (HSE), 400 hp @5750 rpm Torque: 325 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm (HSE), 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,500 rpm (Supercharged) Source: landrover.com

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[escape]

where tie meets

tie-dye Written by Chuck Walsh Photography by Chuck Walsh and courtesy of the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau

usk pales the skies to gray and the lights of the city come to life. Restaurants and bars are abuzz with patrons, and music drowns out the murmur of voices under canopies along the city’s sidewalks. Eclectic, yet modern, storefront windows display works of art while musicians play on street corners. Teens zip by on skateboards while businessmen listen to a man strum a guitar on a park bench. It’s just another night in Big City, U.S.A., right? One might think so if not for the soft purple backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Yes, the city that brought you the Biltmore House (biltmore.com), the Grove Park Inn (290 Macon Ave, 828-252-2711, groveparkinn.com) and an amazing stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway (blueridgeparkway.org) has become a mecca for arts, music and culture. And in this town known as a city of healing and of being one with nature, culture and nirvana have been seamlessly woven together, thank you very much. This is not your father’s Asheville, though it still offers many activities to keep Pops busy. Tourists still come to experience the peace and beauty of the mountains, but Asheville now draws a diverse crowd seeking big city energy and excitement in a place known for its Southern hospitality. The city has become a cultural potpourri and it offers something for both locals and tourists alike. Nothing quite measures the heartbeat of a city like its music scene, and with venues offering an expansive lineup of music on a nightly basis, Asheville’s heartbeat is on a caffeine high. From Barley’s Taproom (42 Biltmore Ave, 828-255-0504), where one might hear shades of folk and acoustic music, to the Orange Peel (101 Biltmore Ave, 828-225-5851, theorangepeel.net), which was named by Rolling Stone as one of the nation’s top five rock clubs, to Tressa’s Downtown Jazz and Blues (28 Broadway, 828-254-7072, tressasdowntownjazzandblues.com), where sounds of New Orleans echo into the streets, it’s music bliss. The Smashing Pumpkins played a series of nine straight shows at the Orange Peel in 2007. Weekend music festivals occur throughout the year, covering the spectrum of reggae to jazz and indie rock to country. The Bele Chere Festival (belecherefestival.com), which takes place each July, offers over 90 bands to entertain crowds of 300,000 plus.

Like music, the art scene, long a part of Asheville’s history, has become nationally recognized by both artists and collectors. Its cross-cultural blend of local, national and international artists has caused tremendous growth throughout the River Arts District (riverartsdistrict.com), the downtown area, Biltmore Village (biltmorevillage.com) and along the outskirts of town. As the number of artists grows, so do the number of galleries, numbering more than 30 in the Asheville area. Even the town is a work of art, with street corner sculptures and the largest number of art deco structures in the Southeast aside from Miami. Glenn Garson, owner of Bella Vista Art (14 Lodge St, 828-768-0246, bellavistaart.com), came from New Orleans two years ago and discovered Asheville was in the midst of an arts renaissance brought about by the conglomeration of people from all walks of life. “I was attracted to the laissez-faire atmosphere here in Asheville, and the area was absolutely beautiful,” Garson says. The diversity caught him off guard. “In New Orleans, the melting pot began a hundred years ago. In Asheville, it’s happening now.” Garson sees the effects of that diversity daily. “In our gallery we get a real mix of society, and it has given us an education of the broad expanse of people in Asheville.” Two-thirds of Garson’s gallery is made up of artists from Western North Carolina, though some of the local artists aren’t necessarily North Carolina natives. “Our locals are now people who come from places as far away as Chicago, Miami and New York.” Barbara Cary has lived in Asheville for 22 years, watching the art scene develop from a place where art was something done perhaps as a hobby, into a place where art is nationally renowned. “Initially the artists came to Asheville to get away from the corporate world,” says Cary, who has chaired the Public Art Board for the last five years. “They loved the secluded mountains. Asheville was affordable, it was beautiful, and the weather was nice. It offered the chance for artists to do what they loved while keeping their day jobs to pay the bills.” Asheville’s growing reputation as one of America’s top art destinations, and the increasing cost of rent, however, has changed the River Arts District as it attracts more commercially viable artists. From edgy, contemporary paintings in downtown galleries to hand woven fabrics in the Folk Art Center (382 Blue

Ridge Parkway, 828-298-7928, southernhighlandguild.org), the expansive market allows Asheville’s art reputation to grow. “The art scene definitely drives the city,” Cary says. With arts and music stealing the headlines, it might be easy to overlook the culinary scene in Asheville. With over 400 restaurants, the city takes eating to a new level through an amazing selection of both food and atmosphere. Whether dining in the cozy confines of Cafe on the Square (1 Biltmore Ave, 828-251-5585, cafeonthesquare.com), eating street side under the stars at Modesto (1 Page Ave, 828-225-4133), or munching on fish and chips at Jack of the Wood (95 Patton Ave, 828252-5445, jackofthewood.com), Asheville makes dining an experience. The town places tremendous support into local businesses as the more than 135 independent restaurants would attest. These restaurants in turn support the local growers. So, whether it’s a four star restaurant or a small diner, local produce, meats, wines and brews are prominently featured. Though it’s become a cultural hot bed, the unmatched beauty of the mountains will always define Asheville. The Appalachian range is an endless wave of mountains rising in sharp peaks, in an intricate design of random order. It is watched over by such places as the Devil’s Courtyard and Looking Glass Rock. The secluded nature of the mountains, said to be some 300 million years old, is custom made for seeking adventure off the beaten path. Named “Best Southern Town” by Outside magazine, it has become a destination source for outdoor enthusiasts year round. “Asheville is an active, healthy destination,” Dodie Stephens, public relations manager for the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, says. With over 2,000 miles of biking and hiking trails, horseback riding at Biltmore or in the backcountry, Asheville offers something for everyone. For those wanting a more “hands on” approach, rock climbing is available at scenic sites such as Looking Glass Rock and Chimney Rock (chimneyrockpark.com). To see Asheville from the sky, hot air balloons and skydiving is the way to go. One of the most popular outdoor activities in and around the Asheville area is whitewater rafting. According to Charles Conner, media and communications manager at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) (noc.com), whitewater activities merge the harmony of the river and the mountains through the sport of kayaking and rafting. The NOC offers rafting experiences on four rivers around the Asheville area and each river offers its own unique qualities. “The Nolichucky, especially in the spring, can become a true class IV or class V river,” Conner says. “The Nantahala is more of a class II, class III river, though those on specialty kayaks can make the water as exciting as they want it to be.” The Nantahala can easily draw more than 1,000 people daily. With full service restaurants, an outdoor center and accommodations for overnight visitors, the NOC makes the whitewater experience something to remember. With paddling instruction dubbed “the nation’s premier paddling school” by The New York Times, the NOC’s eight mile stretch of rapids offers everything for those looking to learn how to ride the fast moving waters. There’s no denying Asheville’s year-round beauty, though for many, autumn is the time where Asheville really shows off. “Fall in Asheville is a fireworks show, and with over 100 deciduous trees, it’s a kaleidoscope of colors,” Stephens says. “We have one of the longest leaf seasons in the nation (late September through early November), as the colors begin at Mt. Mitchell (elevation 6,684 feet) before working their way 4,000 feet

down to the lower elevations.” With great accommodations such as the Grove Park Inn and a variety of B&Bs at which to sit and view the fall colors, it’s no wonder Frommer’s voted Asheville as “one of the best twelve destinations in the world.” Though Asheville is a haven for tourists, it has a way of turning them into permanent residents. Hector Diaz came to Asheville from Puerto Rico in 1993. Through help with the community, he opened a small restaurant called Salsa’s (6 Patton Ave, 828252-9805). He now has four restaurants in Asheville and is firmly entrenched as one of Asheville’s favorite residents. Being close to the community, he has seen the evolution of folks who visit, or live, in Asheville. “When I first came here, this was a laid back town and the locals and tourists were the only ones here,” Diaz says. “Now, it has become an international place. Everyone is welcome here and we have such colorful people.” Like Diaz, Pauline Habnagy came to visit and fell in love with the city. Working in New York, she followed her sister Jaime to Asheville, and now they operate Sugar Momma’s Cookies (8 East Walnut St, 828-251-7277, sugarmommascookies.com). “Here you are accepted no matter who you are,” says Habnagy, noting that the scenery is a nice perk. “I love the natural scene; the mountains. Look around and watch the sunset. It’ll draw you right in.” Though they live in Asheville, these transplants haven’t lost their excitement for Asheville. “Though we work here, we consider ourselves perpetual tourists,” says Stephens, who moved to Asheville from South Florida. It’s known as the place where tie meets tie-dye. It’s where big city style meets the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s Dom Perignon in an apple cider jug. It’s Asheville.

[style]

The he ri right combination Our fall wardrobe collection resembles the new downtown Sheraton Hotel: Both ooze timeless appeal, are accented by bold, modern influences and are sure to take Columbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style bar up a few notches.

Photography by Shawna Simmons and Brad Allen Hair and Makeup by Tillmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salon Naida: Dress from Van Jean, shoes from Sophie Shoes, earrings from Mary

Kendall: Wrap blouse from LaRoque, jeans from Mary, ankle boots from Sophie Shoes, necklace, quilted bag and bracelet from Just The Thing Kurt: Button up shirt and jeans from Max & Prissy

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Kendall: Peacoat and dress from M Boutique, black tights from Lola, clutch and earrings from Mary, pumps from Sophie Shoes Brandon: Shirt, Belt and jeans from Brittons. Kurt: Eyeglasses from Frame of Mind, Button up shirt and pants from Brittonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Kurt: Tux, cuff links and tie from Brittons. Kendall: Lingerie and pearls from Tullulah, leopard heels from Sophie Shoes, earrings from Mary

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vault contents: classic, twist of cool

Brandon: Eye glasses from Frame of Mind; Jacket, Polo, and Cords from Granger Owings. Kurt: Jacket, button up shirt and pants from Granger Owings. Naida: Dress from Van Jean, earrings from Mary, shoes from Kick’s. Kendall: Dress from Lola, earrings from Lola, shoes from Kick’s Veronica: Dress from Copeland’s, shoes from Copeland’s, cocktail ring from Copeland’s

[get out]

Written by Shannon Wilder

Photography by Matt Riley

Outdoor climbing in the Carolinas packs adventure and fitness o matter which mountain of life you are climbing, when you find yourself among ascending brethren, your body and spirit will be lifted to a higher ground. Whether you are just getting started on Table Rock, finding shady relief on Looking Glass, taking in the awe inspiring views of Linville Gorge, high stepping on Stone Mountain or just reminiscing about Dirty Dancing on Rumbling Bald, the Southeastern United States is rich in traditional, “backwater” climbing areas. As a matter of fact, most avid climbers will readily admit that the glitter of gold doesn’t even compare to the dazzling sparkle of a steep quartzite wall. Who is this subculture of adventure seekers? According to Matt Riley, an avid climber and climbing instructor at the University of South Carolina, they are reasonably sane individuals possessing average athleticism, an environmental conscience and a basic desire to enjoy majestic views from a different perspective. “Climbers aren’t nuts and (climbing) is a safe sport with a lot of history,” Riley says. Unlike organized sports, which require rigorous practice schedules and usually involve at least one person yelling at various points during the process, training to climb is quite different. Though tedious and at certain points mind bending, climbing tends to involve a hefty amount of productive silence. But while climbers are busy engineering routes and contemplating how to deal with immediate situations, they consequently forge bonds, build lasting friendships and get to know themselves better through the experience. While mountain climbing is soaring in popularity in the extreme sport genre, it is not dominated by a particular gender. A common misconception of climbing is that upper body strength wins when attempting to scale a mountain, but it is in fact mental strength and confidence in technique that perseveres in this activity. That’s why women who are physically smaller tend to perform equally as well as men who surpass them in bodily strength. If you have an adventurous soul, at least average agility and endurance, a friend whom you trust “knows” climbing and about three hundred dollars, you have exactly what it takes to begin mountain climbing. Due to the temperance of weather here in the Southeast, you don’t have to wait for the right season to roll around in order to enjoy climbing. According to local veteran climber Stephen Scoff, it is not uncommon to “be climbing on a sun lit day during snow flurries wearing a T-shirt,” since rock absorbs the sun’s

rays and thus causes the heat to intensify. However, Scoff adds that the best time to climb in this area is the fall due to the dryness and coolness of the season. Beginners who want to get their feet wet in climbing and are not quite ready to tackle the outdoors may want to check out an indoor climbing facility. Stronghold Athletic Club on Huger Street offers over 6,000 square feet of climbing areas that grant beginning enthusiasts valuable insight and strength training while learning the ropes minus the initial investment of gear and equipment. Stronghold Athletic Club also offers outdoor guided trips provided by expert climbers as well as portable walls for parties and groups. While indoor climbing falls under the category of “sport” climbing, which involves using permanently-anchored bolts, it also helps prepare novices for “traditional” climbs – a more rugged form of climbing that involves mostly removeable aids – as well. Once you’ve been instructed, practiced your techniques and researched a few guidebooks, it’s safe to say that you’re ready to begin life’s next big adventure. There’s only one thing left to do – choose your destination. Here, we’ve rounded up the top five outdoor climbing destinations in North and South Carolina according to local experts.

Table Rock Based upon the experience and recommendations of local climbers, many of Table Rock’s 60 multi-pitch traditional routes are a fine place to start. Although most of the routes are within the 5.5 and 5.6 range, White Lightning is a most excellent beginning and intermediate level climb. Consisting of 70 to 300 feet of Chilhowie quartzite, Table Rock has been home to the North Carolina Outward Bound School since the late 1960s. This facility continues to stay busy from April through November. Generally facing east and with an elevation of 3,900 feet, climbers commonly experience cool and shady afternoons. Nevertheless, spring and summer thunderstorms, which often include dangerous lightning, can curtail the fun of all climbers, experienced or otherwise.

Looking Glass Consisting of 500 feet of granite and roughly 180 routes, Looking Glass might be considered the most well known climbing area in North Carolina. Located in the Pisgah National Forest near

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Brevard, this crag is said to offer the most variety to any skill level. Route development began here in the late 1960s, and prior to that time, very little was known regarding access and routes, with the exception of a few locals who have since been credited with making the first ascents. The best time to climb Looking Glass is in the fall and winter months. Shady sections lie on the North Side and Hidden Wall, which allow for comfortable climbing conditions even during the dog days of summer. Check and see if rain recently fell on the South Side, as this area can stay wet for days after a rainfall. Camping is plentiful, but if you choose a site outside of a designated area, make sure it is at least 1,000 feet from the side of the road.

Linville Gorge Damaged but certainly not diminished by a series of wildfires back in 2000, Linville Gorge continues to supersede other climbing areas with its 14 mile canyon created by the Linville River. This gorge is located among North Carolina’s “high country” in the northwestern part of the state. This scenic and craggy granite with crystalline quartzite extrusions provides climbers with mountaineering opportunities throughout the year with some exceptions, such as when the peregrine falcons are nesting. Most favor a warm climb here, as spring can be cold and wet whereas winter often involves falling ice. Vigilance regarding weather in Linville Gorge is a must as conditions are known to change rapidly. If you are planning on camping, you will need to do precisely that – plan. Permits are sometimes required for overnight camping in the wilderness areas. Another thought to consider is that while seasonal springs are available, they are just that – seasonal, so it is best to bring your own water, as the possibilities for hydration are limited and somewhat unreliable. However, despite any lack of amenities, this “Grand Canyon of the East” provides miles of awesome views and 2,000 feet of pure delight.

Stone Mountain Stone Mountain, North Carolina is not a place for the timid. With little standing in the way of climbable features, falls here could be extensive and severe. Routes here were established in the traditional manner – by bolting along routes by hand. Although the Carolina Climbers Coalition extensively rebolted this venue in the winter of 1998, the sense of tradition remains with bolted distances posing a challenge to say the least. This venue is guaranteed to test a leader’s composure as he or she rubs shoulders with disaster against an expansive 500 foot wall of white granite, 25 feet above the last sign of protection. Winter climbing is optimal here, as summer tends to consist of intolerable heat and humidity. Due to the new generation of “gym-bred” climbers looking for a hot new rock, Stone Mountain has recently experienced a populace boom. Therefore, if you plan to spend the weekend here, your chances of finding a campsite at the state park are most promising if sought out early. On the other hand, if you happen to arrive late on a holiday weekend, don’t be discouraged. In the spirit of Southern hospitality, the locals gladly pull out the welcome wagon in the form of signs in their front yards offering campsites. Be advised that it’s best to have a contingency plan in the event of rain, as the doors shut on this wall when wet.

Rumbling Bald If you’ve seen Dirty Dancing (the Patrick Swayze version) or The Last of the Mohicans, then you’ve seen at least part of North Carolina’s Rumbling Bald. This peak is widely hailed as the state’s premier winter climb. The cliff line is conducive to both sport and traditional climbing. The variety is undoubtedly a reflection of the diverse group of first ascenders who were enjoying the freedom and multiplicity of life in the 1960s. They created an excellent range of routes amid the backdrop of North Carolina’s scenic Lake Lure. With route names like Frosted Flake, Fruit Loops and Captain

Patagonia, The North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Salomon, Merrell and more

Crunch, it’s pretty clear that for a productive day, you better eat your Wheaties. While noted for its climbing disparity, Rumbling Bald has also become quite the bouldering Mecca over the past decade with ropes being outnumbered by crash pads. Bouldering is the practice of climbing on rocks close to the ground using a pad as protection as opposed to ropes. The gear for bouldering is less expensive and has risen in popularity among the college crowd. Unlike most climbing locations in this area, the Bald dries fairly quickly following a rain, so there are no shut outs here. Unfortunately, climbers can’t camp on the mountain, but there are several pay sites available close by. If you’re bringing a special friend and plan to relive some of those Dirty Dancing scenes during your down time, Creekside Campground is your best bet for privacy, which is located about 15 miles west on Highway 64/74. And if temperatures are bothersome, you can warm up on any of Rumbling Bald’s 150 routes and cool down in the ground level caves which provide an excellent source of natural air conditioning. So there you have it, the top five climbing destinations as declared by our local aficionados. As most avid North Carolina climbers will tell you, tradition is of the essence and access is a sensitive subject. But since beginners must be informed in order to appreciate and adhere to the true nature of climbing, most mountaineers are very open about general history and first ascent style. A cadre of climbers insist that this is not just a sport, but rather an intense experience shared among members of a global community who have an affection for exploration, engineering, preservation and of course, the thrill. Above all, you must remember that as a climber, you’re only as strong as the gear you carry, the belay you have devised, the grip you have managed and the partner you have chosen.

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[scene] stir catches

up with one of Columbia’s hottest DJ’s, Richard Hine, otherwise known as “DJ Keane” or “Dick Not Richard.” Find out what makes him different, why he is a selfproclaimed dork, and what it takes to kill the dance floor every weekend.

DICK not RICHARD Written by Susan Levi-Wallach

Susan Levi-Wallach: So, Richard or Dick or . . . Richard Hine: The “Dick not Richard” thing is kind of a joke. My roommate named my iPod Dick Not Richard, and it stuck. I’ve been going by DJ Keane for the past 10 years – that’s my dad’s middle name. But whenever someone comes up to me, I introduce myself as Richard. SLW: What are you playing these days? RH: When I play at Art Bar, it’s a more mature, eclectic group. I play 80s into hip-hop music and contemporary radio. But then I’ll mix in hip-hop that people haven’t heard of and dance music such as Mstrkrft and Daft Punk, though everybody’s heard of Daft Punk just about. At Group Therapy, I play a lot of house and electro. SLW: What makes a DJ hot? RH: Track selection. Crowd control. You’ve got to be able to read your crowd. It’s all about making sure that what I’m playing goes with the crowd I’m playing for. SLW: Where do you get your music? RH: Nowadays, I just get everything online, from blog sites and iTunes, wherever I can find it. Friends find tracks and give them to me. There’s a blog site called hypem.com – The Hype Machine. SLW: Do you think the club scene has become too mainstream, at least in terms of music? RH: Yeah. Columbia doesn’t know what Columbia has, as far as music is concerned. SLW: Where do you think Columbia’s club scene is heading, trendwise? RH: You have your regular clubs – which is fine, because that’s what people like. But that’s not what I’m all about. Columbia also has a few places where you get to hear music you would hear in New York or Chicago. SLW: Which ones? RH: There are a lot of guys – a lot of my good friends such as Jason Wilson and Gravy, Merkle and Goldfinger and Perry A, who play down at Element – who play really good music. SLW: What will you be doing five years from now? RH: I’m actually working with a couple of buddies of mine, trying to start an entertainment company. I’d like to have a storefront where I could have productions come out of the store and also have a video and photo studio as well and produce local music. Now, I’m organizing a fashion show for Winston’s Wish. I’m going to do it at Headliner’s. I’m really excited about it.

Photography by Shawna Simmons

SLW: Who’s your favorite recording artist these days? RH: Right now, it would be Mstrkrft, for sure. SLW: Talk about your tattoos. RH: This was my first one. It’s based on platter dots. There’s a strobe light that you use to calibrate the speed on a Technics 1200 turntable. As the platter rotates on the strobe light, one dot will stop spinning and then the others will spin. As far as my sleeve, I really like the aesthetics of Japanese art. I found a really good artist whose name is Ozzie – he works at Animated Canvas. He’s done all the work on this arm. SLW: What’s on your night table? RH: I have a couple of books – Harry Potter included, because I’m a dork. A lamp. Usually my cell phone because that’s my alarm clock. Then whatever trash I had in my pockets from the bar. SLW: On an average night, how many women hit on you? RH: I’m shy about that. I like to think that it doesn’t happen all the time, but it does. I don’t have a problem with that – I like it – but at the same time I’m just a regular guy. SLW: Someone special is coming for dinner – what’s on the playlist? RH: I usually go out. Whenever I have dinner with someone, I like to show off so I like to take them somewhere nice. SLW: Is there a connection between music and sex? RH: Absolutely. . . Absolutely.

// The wax list //

“Violet hill” [cryptonites remix] by coldplay “clumsy” remix by lmfao Ft. Fergie “yadnus” [still going to the roadhousE} mix] by !!! “my drive thru” by N.E.R.D ft. santogold “paper planes” by m.i.A. “Sexual eruption remix” by snoop dogg ft. robyn “tenderoni” by chromeo “something about us” by daft punk “bring it on” by goose “d.a.n.c.e.” [MSTRKRFT remix] by justice “take it with a kiss” by the postals “sleep is impossible” by deluca “my cool” by adam tensta “shake it” by metro station “tony the beat” [brooklyn fire remix] by the sounds stir

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[his & hers]

Beauty Rx Written by Shawna Katzman

stir shows you which local products can help you prepare for your worst beauty and personal hygiene disasters

Photography by Brad Allen

Rx beauty : his

Rx beauty : hers

stir

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[host]

Put the

“O” in Hosting

Make money, share belly laughs and improve your friends’ sex lives by hosting a very special girls’ night in Written by Natasha Chillingerian

e’re sure you’ve heard of the Mary Kay and Tupperware party concept, right? An independent consultant with makeup or food storage containers for sale comes into your home, gives an hourlong demonstration of her products for you and your guests, and in the end, everyone feels obligated to buy something, even if they really don’t need another lipstick or sandwich holder. Makeup...Tupperware...yawn. The latest independent consultant party craze involves vibrators, lubricants, Kama Sutra books, sex swings and naughty lingerie. Let’s just say the odds of your guests checking their watches at this shindig would be slim to none. The trend of hosting in-home, adult women-only parties proves that talking about sex — and how to make it better — with your girlfriends in a social setting is not taboo. And while sex toy parties allow women to discuss ways to turn up the heat in the bedroom, they also set the scene for a fun, memorable and unusual party. Consultants are typically inhibition-free women who speak about their products in a frank and comedic manner, creating a hilarious and engaging show for attendees. Girlfriends pass colorful toys around the room and sample tasty, edible lotions while enjoying wine, and at the party’s close, guests visit with the consultant one by one in a private room where they can place their orders in confidence. To see what all the hype was about, we (the ladies of stir) decided to host a sex toy party of our own. Our consultant, Tamika Sellers of sex toy party company Pure Romance, put everyone at ease by passing out name tags and asking us to choose a product from the catalog as our “name” for the party — “Humdinger,” “Nympho Niagra,” “Great Head,” “Honey Dipper,” “Thundervibe,” etc. (Bonus: We’d get a discount if we purchased the product we named ourselves after.) Then came the introductions: “I’m Sari, and I chose the name Great Head because I....give great head?” said one guest. Laughs ensued.

Sellers then began her show and tell session, warming up with creams and lotions before getting to the potentially frighteninglooking dildos. We were instructed that our right hand was to be used for testing scented, non-edible lotions and the left for edible kinds (“Left for lickin’, right for sniffin’,” Sellers said.) The “Ex-T-Cee” cream in Cotton Candy was particularly delish. “Want some more?” Sellers asked one guest who licked her lotion-covered thumb like a lollipop. To keep guests even more alert, Sellers introduced a game — every time she said the word “orgasm,” we had to shout, “Pure Romance parties by Tamika.” Whoever shouted the phrase first got to hold onto a delightfully naughty pink and black whip; the person with the whip halfway through the party got to pick a special prize. Awkwardness was inevitable in the party’s early stages, but after about a half hour (and a few bottles of wine, no doubt) guests began to relax, ask Sellers questions and give testimonials of products they had used before. One guest even paused to call her boyfriend for advice before deciding on her purchases. Of course, a giggly atmosphere persisted throughout the evening — something we imagine is unavoidable in any scenario involving a room full of women and monstrous, motorized penises (unless they all have the same attitude as Sex and the City’s Samantha). Hosts conclude the evening with more than just fond memories and between-the-sheets tips — as a thank-you from the consultant, hosts receive 10 percent of their party’s total profit. And for guests afraid of embarrassing themselves in front of their roommates when their shipments arrive, fear not: Packages arrive plain and unmarked, so the only individuals who know about your orders are you, your consultant and your partner. The verdict? We think hosting a sex toy party makes for a refreshing break from the typical night of dinner out, bar hopping, cocktails and/or movies, and is one hell of a way to break the ice. It’s a great bachelorette party option too, but don’t limit yourself to exploring the world of intimacy enhancing products on one day of your life. As any sex toy party consultant would say, sex is a consistent aspect of adulthood that should be celebrated and enhanced, whether you’re single, dating, co-habitating, engaged or married.

Q&A

with Tamika Sellers, Pure Romance consultant How did you get into doing this? A lady brought a Pure Romance brochure to work one day, and I decided to host a party. Everyone had so much fun, so I hosted another one. Then I realized, you know, I think I can do this, I think I can be a consultant. It’s a great way to earn extra money. I’m parttime right now, but my goal is to become full-time. Some women are buying cars and houses with the money they make doing this. I’ve been a consultant for nearly three years now. Do you have a particular interest in what you’re selling? Yes... (laughs) How do people react when you tell them what you do? Some people will say, ‘Oh, you sell nasty stuff.’ But then I explain to them that no, it’s not nasty. Do you think women are becoming more comfortable with their sexuality and open about using these products? Yes, I do. And for some women, these products are a necessity. A toy could be what saves a woman’s marriage, or it could be necessary for a health-related reason. Why do the parties forbid men to be present? It would be too uncomfortable with men there. Women wouldn’t want to talk about their sex lives with their boyfriend or husband sitting right there. The parties provide a safe, comfortable, confidential environment for purchasing these products and eliminates the embarrassment of going into a store. Men have their adult stores to shop at, and we have our parties. Do you think these parties are becoming popular in South Carolina? They probably aren’t as popular here as they are in the Northern states, but I go to industry meetings, and each time I go, the group gets bigger, so it is growing. We’re getting there. Have you been married or in a relationship while working as a consultant? I’m not married and I don’t have a boyfriend, but I do have... Like a ‘boo’? Yes. (smiles) What does it take to make a good living doing this? I think that if you set goals for yourself and stick with it, the opportunities are endless. To host a party with Sellers as your consultant, call her at 414-6283, or visit pureromance.com for more information. Other companies with consultants in the area include Tasteful Treasures (tastefultreasures.com) and Passion Parties (passionparties.com).

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[high culture] Morihiko Nakahara, Conductor, South Carolina Philharmonic

Theater Theatre South Carolina at USC — The Violet Hour Sep 26-Oct 5. Drayton Hall Theatre. Call for times and prices. 777-1111. Town Theatre — West Side Story Sep 5-27. Town Theatre. Call for times and prices. 799-5210, towntheatre.com. Menopause — The Musical Sep 9, 7:30pm. Township Auditorium. $38.50-$42.50. 576-2350, thetownship.org. Trustus Theatre — Dog See s God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead Sep 14-Oct 6, Thu 7:30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. Trustus Theatre. $15-$20. 254-9732, trustus.org. Workshop Theatre — Fiddler on the Roof Sep 5-20, call for times. Workshop Theatre. $20. 799-4876, workshoptheatre.com. Broadway in Columbia — Oliver Oct 22 & 23, 7:30pm. Koger Center. $45-$55. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu.

Dance Columbia Classical Ballet — A Streetcar Named Desire Oct 17, 7:30pm. Koger Center. $5-$30. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu.

Art Columbia City Ballet — Dracula Oct 30 & 31, Thu 7:30pm, Fri 7:30pm & 10pm. Koger Center. $12-$44. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu. Dance USC — The Divine Comedy Sep 27 & 28, 7:30pm. Koger Center. $16. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu. Carolina Balle t — Steppin’ on Hollywood Sep 8, 7pm. Township Auditorium. $20-$125. 783-2222, carolinaballet.net.

Music South Carolina Philharmonic — Guest conductor Steven Lipsitt Sep 22, 8pm. Koger Center. $13-$40. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu. South Carolina Philharmonic — Guest conductor Morihiko Nakaha ra Oct 13, 7pm. Koger Center. $13-$40. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu. USC Symphony Orchestra — Grammy a ward winning guitarist Sharon Isbin Sep 20, 7:30pm. Koger Center. $25. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu. USC Symphony Orchestra — The music of Beethoven by violinist Vadim Gluzman Oct 16, 7:30pm. Koger Center. $25. 251-2222, koger.sc.edu. Flashback — The Classic Rock Experience featuring the Mystic Orchestra Sep 6, 8pm. Colonial Center. $19-$59. 576-9200, thecolonialcenter.com.

80808 Gallery 252-6134, gallery80808vistastudios.com Sep 12-21:: Richard Lund — “In This City: The Columbia, SC Project” (photography). Artist reception Sep 12, 5-8pm. Sep 25-30:: Todd Oelze — “Strokes of Light” (abstract photography). Opening reception Sep 26, 6-9pm. City Art 252-3613, cityartonline.com Sep 4-27:: Tim Floyd — Oil paintings. Oct 1-11:: Donna Ferrato — “Living with the Enemy” (photography). Oct 16-Nov 8:: Ed Shmunes — “South Carolina: An Interpretive Survey” (digital photography). Columbia Museum of Art 799-2810, columbiamuseum.org Thru Oct: “Children of Hope 2008” (artwork by children being treated for cancer and blood disorders). Thru Nov: Dale Chihuly – “Seaforms” (glassworks & sketches). Thru Dec: “Southern Traditions” (furniture, ceramics, silver, basketry, sculpture & paintings). Thru Jan 2009:: Constantine Manos — “A Greek Portfolio” (photography). Thru Feb 2009: “Eye to the East: The Turner Collection of Chinese Art” (ceramics & sculpture). Thru Aug 2009: “While I Breathe Hope” (photographic installation of homeless people who were given cameras to document their lives).

80808 Gallery - 808 Lady St

Koger Center - 1051 Greene St

City Art - 1224 Lincoln St

Town Theatre - 1012 Sumter St

Colonial Center - 801 Lincoln St

Township Auditorium - 1703 Taylor St

Columbia Museum of Art - Main & Hampton

Trustus Theatre - 520 Lady St

Drayton Hall Theatre - College Street

Workshop Theatre - 1136 Bull St

We make every effort to provide comprehensive and accurate listings. Events are always subject to change after we go to press, so we recommend that you call or check the Web site to confirm dates, times and prices. To have your November or December event included in our next issue’s listings, email information to natasha@stirpublishing.com by Oct 15.

Breakfast Panini’s Spinach, Egg, & Cheddar Scrambled eggs layered with baby spinach and cheddar Southwestern Scrambled eggs with red and green bell peppers, mushrooms, melted cheddar, black bean pesto and salsa Bacon, Egg, & Cheddar Scrambled eggs with bacon and cheddar Ham, Egg, & Cheddar Scrambled eggs with ham and cheddar

Panini’s Served with a side of chips, pasta salad, or seasonal fruit Roast Beef & Spinach Roast beef, baby spinach, horseradish and havarti cheese, with caramelized onions and portabella mushrooms on ciabatta bread Pulled Chicken Lemon garlic chicken with avocado, sprouts, tomato, red bell peppers and cheddar on ciabatta bread with black bean pesto and chipotle mayo Reuben Corned beef (or turkey), swiss, sauerkraut and thousand island dressing on rye.

Serving Breakfast Paninis Everyday! Sunday Brunch Breakfast Special 2 scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage patty, home-fried potatoes or grits, toast or biscuits Orange Blossom French Toast Our exclusive French toast with homemade orange & spice butter Biscuits & Gravy Seasoned ground beef simmered in milk gravyover biscuits Brunch Sandwiches Served on a croissant, bagel, white, wheat, pumpernickel, rye, or ciabatta Bacon, egg, & cheese Sausage, egg, & cheese Ham, egg, & cheese Turkey, avocado, &tomato Avocado, tomato, & mozzarella

Café Espresso Ice Cream

Beer & Wine

Catering

Delivery by 256-TOGO

Adriana’s Kitchen Hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 am -11:00 pm 721 Saluda Ave. 803.799.7595

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[scene]

What?! stir chats with locals on the street

Name: Tim Bedford Age: 37 Occupation: Bartender at Art Bar and USC student Place: Five Points What’s the highest single tab you’ve cashed in at Art Bar? About $700 before tip. Where do you usually go out? I don’t go out a whole lot. If I’m not bartending, I stay at home with my son, but sometimes I’ll go to Hunter Gatherer, Art Bar or The Whig. Tell us what you’re wearing. A friend of mine got me this shirt, I think it’s American Eagle. The shorts are from Target. Where do you buy most of your clothes? It’s a mix between thrift stores, Target, Express if I need something nice and occasionally American Apparel. Are you originally from Columbia ? No, I grew up in Pittsburgh and went to school in Virginia, and I’ve been here about 15 years now. I moved down here with a friend on a whim. What drew you to Columbia? Nothing, I just wanted to go somewhere other than where I was. My friend was going to grad school down here, so I tagged along with him. At first I hated it, but each year something would keep me here and I’d sign another lease. Over the years it grew on me, and now I like it. What do you like the most about Columbia? I like the idea of a mid-sized town, because it’s easy to familiarize yourself with what’s happening. I feel connected to the people here. Anything about Columbia you wish you could change? I’m a big music fan, and my biggest complaint is the fact that the music scene has struggled here for whatever reason. We don’t have good mid-sized venues to attract up and coming bands. In general, it’s more of a sports and football culture. People are more interested in getting plastered than appreciating some form of art.

[happy hour] Look no further than stir’s happy hour listing – a rotating collection of our favorite Columbia happy hours. Drink up!

Downtown The Whig 1200 Main St, 931-8852 thewhig.org Mon-Fri 5-8pm: $1 off drafts, house liquor and wine

The Vista blue. 721-A Lady St, 251-4447 Mon-Fri 4-8pm: $0.50 off all alcohol

Flying Saucer 931 Senate St, 933-9997 beerknurd.com Tue-Thu 4-7pm and Fri 4-8pm: 20 oz. drafts for the price of a pint

SakiTumi 807 Gervais St, 931-0700 sakitumigrill.com Mon-Fri 4:30-7pm: $2 crab, salmon, cucumber & asparagus sushi rolls / $4 pomegranate martinis, $2 dom beer

Five Points

828 Gervais St, 461-4677 libertytaproom.com Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $1 off house liquor and drafts

Diannes on Devine

Delaney’s

Yo Burrito

741 Saluda Ave, 779-2345, delaneyspub.com Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $1 off most beers and liquor

2631 Devine St, 799-7579 yoburrito.com Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $3 margaritas, $5 mason jar margaritas, $12 mexi beer buckets

Goatfeathers 2017 Devine St, 256-3325 Mon-Fri 5:30-8pm: 25% off food, variety of discounts on all alcohol

Jake’s Bar & Grill 2112 Devine St, 252-5253 Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $1 off liquor, $0.50 off beer

Village Idiot Liberty

2910 Rosewood Dr, 251-4474 Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $1 off drafts and liquor

827 Harden St, 771-8001 congareegrill.com Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $1.50 domestics, $2.50 hse liquor, $3 hse wine

Kelly’s 1001 Washington St, 254-4464 Mon-Fri 4-8pm: $2 bourbon, $3 aluminum bottles, $10 Long Island Tea pitchers

Cock ‘n Bull

2400 Devine St, 254-3535 diannesondevine.com Mon-Fri 5-7pm & Wed all night: Half price house wine / $0.50 oysters on the half shell (Wed only)

Congaree Grille

Gervais and Vine 620-A Gervais St, 799-8463 gervine.com Mon-Fri 5-6pm: $2 off all tapas / $1 off all drinks

Shandon/ Rosewood

2009 Devine St, 252-8646 villageidiotpizza.com Mon-Fri 4-7pm: $1 cheese pizza slices, $0.40 wings / $2.25 domestics, $2.75 imports, $3.50-$4.50 pitchers

BOUTIQUE

Meeting someone for happy hour and not sure where to go?

Forest Acres Bonefish Grill 4708 Forest Dr, 787-6200 bonefishgrill.com Mon-Fri 4-7pm: 1/2 off house wine and liquor, $1.50 drafts

W. Columbia /Cayce State Street Pub 136 State St, 796-2006 statestreetpub.com Mon-Fri 4-8pm: $2 domestics, daily specials

The Place to Shop. Stylish...Fun...Affordable! 765.2243 • 2820 Devine Street Monday through Saturday 10-6 mchic.com • Extra parking in back stir

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[on the calendar] By Natasha Chilingerian & Stephanie Flynn

Irmo Okra Strut Festival Sep 26-27 Yeah, yeah, we know you may not be crazy about spending the gas money to travel outside of the Columbia city limits, and we are sometimes dubious about “that part of town,” but with an estimated annual attendance of 55,000, this Irmo festival is worth checking out. What started as a 1973 fundraiser to build a new library is now the Irmo Okra Strut Festival (downtown Irmo, Fri 6-11pm, Sat 7:30am-5pm, free), a two-day extravaganza that includes a parade, arts and crafts exhibitors, okra eating and growing contests and live music. The festivities begin Friday night with a street dance featuring music from the beach band Fabulous Kays and fried okra vendors. Don’t miss the okra-eating contest at 8:30pm, which requires Midlands public safety officers to stuff their faces with the iconic Southern vegetable for prizes. Rest up for Saturday, which kicks off with the annual 10k Dam Run to Irmo (register at strictlyrunning.com), followed by the Okra Strut Parade and a variety of special events including a children’s okra eating contest, musical performances and the Saturn Great Okra Giveaway. Don’t feel guilty about buying a few extra pieces of fried okra – all money raised in the festival goes toward civic and school organizations, scholarships and public area improvements in the Irmo community. irmookrastrut.com. — NC

Seriously? Okraman? Viva La Vista Oct 4 Whether you’re already a dedicated patron of the Vista’s fine establishments or a curious newcomer unsure of where to begin, this festival will have something to entice you. This destination for art, entertainment and signature meals will host its first annual Viva La Vista (Gervais Street corridor, Sat 4-7pm, free), a festival that will introduce the Southeast to the Vista’s award-winning restaurants. Visitors of the event can excite their palates with the exquisite foods of the area by enjoying free samples of food and wine from many Vista hot spots. If you’re not a wino, there will still be plenty for you to drink in the beer garden located on the corner of Lincoln and Gervais Streets. Cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, original art exhibits and family friendly activities will also take place throughout the day. Come out to support your favorite Vista restaurants or visit even if you’re just interested to try something new, as Viva La Vista will certainly suit all tastes. vistacolumbia.com. — SF

Oktoberfest in Newberry Oct 4 Whether you have German roots or not, if you love beer (and who doesn’t?!) you have to make the 30 minute trek up to Newberry for Oktoberfest (downtown Newberry, Sat 10am-5pm, free). This year’s festival includes live music from the 3 Dot Polka Band, Grand Illusion and Retro Vertigo on the main stage, a liver nips cooking contest at 11:30am and live cooking demonstrations throughout the day on the culinary stage. Beer gardens and food vendors featuring German delicacies such as schnitzel, kraut and sausages will keep you fueled and buzzed, and the kids will stay entertained with rides, a petting zoo and puppet shows. The event will also include a classic car display and arts and crafts vendors. After a few hours of drinking German beer, seeing men in lederhosen and doing the chicken dance, you’ll be shouting, “Zum wohl!” in no time. (Just don’t challenge your friends to down beer from a pitcher in one gulp, à la Beerfest – we want you to make it home safely!) cityofnewberry.com. — NC

South Carolina State Fair Oct 8-19 & 14-15 Forget the gym. Let’s be honest – we all look forward to the time of year when it’s completely acceptable to indulge in funnel cakes, elephant ears, corn dogs and candied apples. The South Carolina State Fair (Fairgrounds at1200 Rosewood Drive, visit Web site for times and ticket prices) has been drawing crowds by the thousands for over 100 years and 2008 will be no exception. With nearly 75 carnival rides and free entertainment showcasing hypnotists, magicians, lumberjacks and even Dale Jones the One-Armed Juggler, there will certainly be enough to excite children and adults alike. Animal lovers can get their kicks in a number of ways, from attending the livestock judging to watching baby ducks play on water slides. For those who are not interested in petting sheep, fine art exhibitions and cooking demonstrations will take place daily. Headlining artists this year will cater to fans of country, R&B, Christian and, yes, even Disney music. If your interests range anywhere from fine art to fried food, the state fair will definitely have something for you. scstatefair.org. — SF

[boutique banter] Written by Anne Postic, (theshoptart.com)

September & October Sales & Events Ring: Kicks

September

Jacket & top: Van Jean

Belt & buckle: Sid & Nancy

12: Need some threads for the big game against Georgia? Granger Owings (1333 Main St #110, 252-6714, grangerowings.com) is having a tailgate party and trunk show, featuring ties by Southern Proper and rugged clothing by Mountain Khakis. Go Cocks! 12: Britton’s (2818 Devine St, 771-2700, brittonsofcolumbia.com) is hosting Vineyard Vines 2008 College Tour. Come in and meet the guys from Vineyard Vines. 17: Granger Owings is having another tr unk show, featuring sophisticated styles by Corneliani and Hickey Freeman. My husband has exactly one sport coat by Hickey Freeman and it makes me swoon every time he wears it, even after ten years and three kids. 22-27: Six Days of Beauty at Pout! (2850 Devine St, 254-5051, shoppout.com). There will be a different theme every day and representatives from different product lines on hand to answer your questions. This will be a great way to update your makeup for fall and winter.

October M Boutique (2830 Devine St, 765-2243) is celebrating a Five Year Anniversary this month. They’re planning a big celebration (date TBA) you won’t want to miss! 2-4: Shop for a good cause! Andria Lieu Trunk Show and Breast Cancer Benefit at Britton’s. Don’t you love it when stores let you feel good about shopping? 8: Trunk Show at G ranger Owings, featuring Barbour, Samuelsohn, J. B. Hill, Robert Talbott and Zanella. 9: Pout! makeup artists will be at Kicks of Lexington (5175 Sunset Blvd #9, Lexington, 957-8892) with Chantecaille Cosmetics. 16-17: Pout! will hold a Susan Posnick Event with a visiting makeup artist. 17: Trunk Show at Granger Owings, featuring Lilly Pulitzer, Bills Khakis and Tommy Bahama. 22: Trunk Show at Granger Owings, featuring POLO, Martin Dingman and Cole Haan. 29-30: Chantecaille National Makeup Artist Event at Pout!

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food & drink events Carolina Cuisine Shows at USC McCutchen House, 777-8225, hrsm.sc.edu Sep 12, 6:30pm: A Taste of Italy: The Whole Boot from Toe to Top. Five course dinner of Italian cuisines accompanied by a variety of Italian wines. $60 Oct 3, 6:30pm: Oktoberfest: Bavarian Style Cuisine. Five course dinner of German cuisines accompanied by a selection of German beer. $60

Mr. Friendly’s 2001-A Greene St, 254-7828, mrfriendlys.com Sep 10: “Merlot is Back” wine tasting. $5 Sep 17: Dining with Dogs Patio Wine Dinner. Bring your favorite canine to a multi-course wine dinner. Reservations required. Call for time and price. Sep 24: Gallo’s Secret Wines tasting. $5 Oct 1: New York State Wines tasting. $5

Gervais and Vine 620-A Gervais St, 799-8463, gervine.com Visit Web site for upcoming events such as the Farm to Table Dinner, weekly wine tastings and more.

Simply Savory 2901-D Devine St, 256-1141, savorysc.com Fridays, 4:30-6:30pm: Weekly tasting of selected wines. Free

The Gourmet Shop 724 Saluda Ave, 799-9463, thegourmetshop.net Saturdays, 2-5pm: Weekly tasting of selected wines. $1 Let’s Cook Culinary Studio 1305 Assembly St, 250-2569, letscookculinary.com Sep 17 and Oct 22, 6:30-9pm: Chef John Millitello partners with Vino 100 to prepare a unique and interactive four course wine dinner. $50 Mo Mo's Bistro 2930 Devine St, 252-2700 Oct 6, 6:30pm: Brew vs. Vino. Six course dinner complete with craft brew and wine pairings. Call for details and reservations.

Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar 841 Sparkleberry Lane, 788-6966, solsticekitchen.com Sep 6, noon-2pm: Giant Wine Sale/Free Wine Tasting. Get your vino on by tasting dozens of wines for free and purchasing your favorite bottles at discounted prices. Vino 100 120 Sparkleberry Crossing, 699-9122, vino100columbia.com Sep 10 and Oct 8, 5:30-8pm: Wining Women Wednesday. Sample five different wines while enjoying light hors d’oeuvres and learning about a local female business owner. $10 Winestyles Wine and Gifts 6070 Garners Ferry Road Ste E, 695-1120, winestyles.net Thursdays, 5-8pm: Tasting of five selected wines. $5 (refunded with any purchase from tasting table) To have your November or December wine or beer dinner, tasting or other food and/or drink event listed in stir, e-mail info to natasha@stirpublishing.com no later than Oct. 15.

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[get stuff] Love getting free stuff? Who doesn’t?! We have four prizes up for grabs in this issue. To enter, log onto to stircolumbia.com. The deadline to enter is Oct. 15, 2008.

The Art of Shaving Manual Razor From the Fusion Chrome Collection. Perfectly balanced and weighted to feel like a natural extension of your hand, maximizing stability and control. The sleek, contemporary handle is an ideal combination of ergonomics and innovative design, handcrafted in polished chrome with black lacquered accents and a micro-textured grip surface. We like it, a lot.

A Case of Bawls This is our favorite quote from these guys: “Plus, it has 50% more caffeine than regular BAWLS!“ How can you go wrong? Made from guarana, a highly caffeinated berry native to the Amazonian rainforest, BAWLS Guarana is the carbonated beverage of tomorrow with an extra kick. Since its inception, BAWLS Guarana's popularity has been growing across the country and the rest of the world, finding a huge fan base from people from all walks of life who enjoy the clean, crisp taste of guarana along with a powerful rush of caffeine. Warning: If we haven’t mentioned it enough, this product contains high levels of caffeine.

Makool This moss green Shakespeare dress, worth $180, is by Makool Clothing (makoollovesyou.com) and made from soy and organic cotton fabric. It comes with a removable Pink William Shakespeare brooch.

The Sauce Take home some finger lickin’ Good Ol’ Boys Barbeque Sauce in their original Sweet ‘n Bold flavor, plus an exclusive Good Ol’ Boys Barbeque Sauce Tshirt. The sauce, a Certified SC Product, is perfect on pork, fish and chicken.

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[last scene] Chris Lynn : Falconer t’s not too hard to find a Southerner who enjoys hunting. But while the typical hunter hits the great outdoors with lucky lab Ol’ Yeller by his side, Chris Lynn of Columbia hunts with a creature of a different breed. Lynn has been a falconer for the past nine years and is extremely passionate about his sport – he’s even become a breeder and hosts an online forum (nafex.com) for others who share his interest. Sound intriguing? Read on...

For those who don’t know, what exactly is a falconer and how can someone become one? A falconer is a person who trains birds of prey to hunt and take wild game. To become a falconer, you must take an exam through the state office, then have the Department of Natural Resources inspect your facility to make sure you are equipped to house a falcon or raptor. You must also serve as an apprentice under a general or master class falconer for two years. How did you become involved with falcon breeding? I’ve always wanted to do it. As a falconer, I wanted to create my own vibe and quality, and breed the traits that I think are important. It’s also a way to give back to my friends in the falconer community. Have you found a big market locally in Columbia or do most of your prospective clients come from other areas? They come from all over the U.S. I’m currently working with clients in Maryland, Virginia, Arizona and one guy in South Carolina. It’s important to note that the only people who can buy falcons are master class falconers. There’s a wide market but a lot of red tape to get through first. I see from your Web site that you take great care in raising these birds. Do you see them as pets or products? I see them as a passion. I enjoy them and take care of them. They receive extraordinary personal care and only a top quality diet. It’s amazing to take something from an egg and raise it in order to give back to the falcon community.

Written by Stephanie Flynn Photography by Brad Allen