Metro Spirit 02.13.2003

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February 13-19, 2003

S, M IS IN SU A T ES & ENTER

After the Fall

By Brian Neill

Former state Senator Charles Walker

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Contents The Metropolitan Spirit

THANKS AUGUSTA!

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F E B R U A R Y 1 3 - 1 9 • F R E E W E E K LY • M E T S P I R I T. C O M

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Tough Love: Augusta’s Rugby Club By Brian Neill ...........................................21 The Pill = The Dating Pits? By Stacey Eidson ................................................24

Gerald Jones Honda Inventory Reduction

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Opinion Whine Line ......................................................................4 Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down ...........................................4 This Modern World .........................................................4 Words ...............................................................................6 Letter to the Editor .........................................................7 Suburban Torture ............................................................7 Austin Rhodes .................................................................8 Commentary: Clyde Wells ..........................................10

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THE METROPOLITAN SPIRIT is a free newspaper published weekly on Thursday, 52 weeks of the year. Editorial coverage includes ar ts, local issues, news, enter tainment, people, places and events. In our paper appear views from across the political and social spectrum. The views do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers. Visit us at www.metspirit.com. Copyright © The Metropolitan Spirit Inc. Reproduction or use without permission is prohibited.

Phone: (706) 738-1142 Fax: (706) 733-6663 E-mail: spirit@metspirit.com Letters to the Editor: P.O. Box 3809, Augusta, Ga. 30914-3809

1-800-203-9371 www.geraldjoneshonda.com

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Whine Line T

he greatest thing the development community has going for it is that Alvin Stark is the chairman of the Columbia County Republican Party. Alvin’s efforts are the only way that land developers and the home building community know what is on the mind of Columbia County residents and their customers. The Republican ballot questions last year were the first time the development community was given any opportunity to hear directly from Columbia County residents. But this past Saturday the development community was being turned out to vote against Alvin Stark by Charlie Norwood’s aide and others with no tie to the development community but have their own hidden agenda. The real reason Alvin is being turned out of office has nothing to do with the development community. He is being forced out of office by those that do not want their activities questioned by anyone – especially Alvin Stark.

If Augusta wants to make good use of the Regency Mall property, why not consider creating a multi-use educational complex? One segment could house a magnet school focusing on vocational training; another segment could house a medical training facility to supply skilled workers for Augusta’s medical industry. And another segment could house employers such as a customer service call center. Local government could use another portion to house a central tag and tax office. The site has plenty of parking and is centrally located to serve these functions.

Here we go. Another tragedy for America, and what is everyone doing – pointing his or her finger at the other one. Democrats blaming Republicans, Republicans blaming Democrats. The previous president cut defense, so that

was the contributing cause. Another is blaming the current president, because he’s not done enough since the 9/11 tragedy. So what can he do about this one. Come on people, let’s just grieve for those we have lost, and stop blaming one another and pointing fingers.

I am so glad that Don Cheeks came out of the closet and ran to the Republican Party.

When you ride down Deans Bridge Road (Hwy. 1) you see all these cars that appear to have no driver. After further inspection you can see just the tip of the driver’s head with the driver slumped down real low, operating the car while peering through the steering wheel. I’ll bet that if these folks would sit up straight so they could see what’s in front of them and around them that the number of accidents on that road would be greatly reduced. And we would all be safer sharing the roads with them.

Columbia County just spent millions of dollars on a new judicial center, and yet the probation office is in Thomson (McDuffie County).

I am totally disgusted that Sen. Cheeks intervened with local prosecutors on behalf of an Evans man who pleaded guilty to sexual battery of a child — a 3-year-old child.

Thumbs Up Despite those in power trying to make her look inept (state Sen. Don Cheeks called her a “kook” on a local radio talk show) Sandy Hodson of The Augusta Chronicle did a fantastic job of sniffing out corruption in our local judicial system. Hodson exposed Cheeks’ attempt to get an acquaintance of his off the hook with regard to registering as a sex offender, after the defendant pleaded guilty to mis-

demeanor sexual battery on a child.

District Attorney Danny Craig, Assistant DA Bobby Christine and Superior Court Judge Carl Brown all played a part in the decision to leave the defendant off the sex offender registry, though all seemed to pass the buck at first.

Since Hodson’s stories, the defendant, Bobby Clark Brassell Jr., has been placed on the sex-offender registry.

Thumbs Down Shameless, self-serving politicians. come by to fill out a job application during the busy time. Have respect for what we do and the customers. They come first.

The “family values” Republicans may brag about getting rid of Cynthia McKinney and Charles Walker, but at least those two have never been accused of being soft on people convicted of sexual battery on kids. How about Republican Don Cheeks?

Danny Craig’s job is in jeopardy. His behavior in this recent case is atrocious.

If Fort Gordon closes, the following people will be devastated: All of us!

Wake up and smell the anthrax, people.

I’m a manager of a restaurant and have a huge pet peeve. I can not believe someone selling or soliciting something, including advertising and charity donations, would call or come by during lunch. I would never do business with these people; they obviously don’t know anything about the restaurant business. This also goes to people who

Geez, Spirit, you guys really take the cake. The Insider, that supposedly courageous yet gutlessly anonymous writer, continues to beat up your daily newspaper competitors, but now you’ve stooped to whacking on Columbia County’s hometown paper, too. What were they supposed to do when Linda Schrenko left public life, set up a lynching

party to “welcome” her home? Maybe tar and feather her? Face it: No one expects you to like your business opponents, but are readers really supposed to think your ad-nauseam comments aren’t just malicious, competitive sniping?

I can’t believe Mayor Bob Young favors doubling the local option sales tax for Richmond County. And, I don’t buy into the scam that it would be used as a way of lowering property taxes — certainly not at the rate he and Augusta commissioners keep raising the taxes on our homes and businesses.

The NBA All-Star game in Atlanta was a good ballgame but the associated traffic and hedonistic behavior was awful.

Our culture is on the verge of collapse.

To the person commenting on the bum crossing the bridge into north Augusta: It’s because they are selling their blood plasma on West Avenue for $25 a pop.

To the author of the most recent comic

by Tom Tomorrow: You have no idea of what you are talking about.

President Bush is telling the truth. You obviously live in a fantasyland. Get real. Be an adult. Grow up!

Since when has Barry Paschal, The Columbia New-Times editor, been a good judge of public officials? Paschal is either blind or too arrogant to admit the truth about his relationships with failed politicians. The newspaper would better serve the people in Columbia County if Paschal could find another job like his mentor Phil Kent did.

The whine in last week’s Spirit regarding the very inflated salaries paid to Brockman and Points typifies the real problem with mental health facilities.

Too much goes into the administration and support staff salaries, and it comes out of the money intended and needed for patient treatment. The mental health center needs to be rid of both these people, eliminate the director position, and to hire a qualified health administrator who will understand and accomplish the mission of the facility.

There he goes again! Barry Paschal seems to think Schrenko was terrific because of her Columbia County roots.

Sorry, Barry, it takes more than “roots” to be a competent superintendent. It would also be neat if we could elect people who are smart, committed and aboveboard in their job performance. Schrenko failed the test on all three counts.

Augusta Commissioner Tommy Boyles offered a proactive and common-sense approach in suggesting that Mayor Bob Young, the sheriff, and fellow Commissioner Marion Williams meet with Martha Burk and Jesse Jackson to discuss their planned protest prior to Masters Week. It’s a shame Mayor Young doesn’t feel it would be appropriate for him to take an active role in settling the dispute. Boyles’ statesman-like approach to such matters shows me that he would be an excellent candidate for mayor when Bob “I don’t want to get involved” Young leaves office.

The electric car in the story last week sounds cool. I’m going to get one.

What is this garbage on the Y-105 morning show? Bring back Ron Roberts!

Oh, too many people are Austin-bashing this week. You have such a treasure in your midst — you should just enjoy him. I live in Iowa and I would love to have him here. He speaks our values.

I feel so disenfranchised and in need of Martha Burk and Jessie Jackson’s assistance. I went to join a fitness center here in town in order to get in shape to improve my golf game in hopes of getting on the LPGA Tour. I soon found continued on page 6

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HEALTH PAGE Take care of yourself. Let University help.

“HealthTalk” on WGAC-580 AM

Tune in Monday, Feb. 17, at 8:30 a.m. to hear Ray E. Johnson, M.D., a board-certified cardiologist and member of University’s medical staff, discuss heart disease.

University Presents a Family Life Series – “Part I: Challenges and Changes Facing Adolescents Today” Featuring Pediatrician Alan G. Getts, M.D. March 11 Registration/dinner: 6:30 p.m.; physician presentation: 7-8:15 p.m.

“Osteoporosis – The Bone Facts for Women and Men” Featuring Douglas R. Phillips, M.D. March 20 Registration/dinner: 5:30 p.m.; physician presentation: 6-7 p.m.

Both of the above programs will be held in University Hospital dining rooms 1-3.

Seniors Club members: $8; advance registration: $9; at the door: $10 To register, call 706/736-0847.

Save The Date!

March 30 12:15-5 p.m.

University Hospital Levi W. Hill III Auditorium, First Floor BabyFest is a FREE, funfilled, educational afternoon designed for new and expectant parents.

Pediatricians and infant care medical specialists conduct classes and provide educational materials designed to answer your questions about parenthood and your baby’s first year.

For more information, call 706/774-2825.

If you are 50 or older, join University Seniors Club!

Review the wealth of benefits: -Health-related programs with physicians -Health screenings -Local and national discounts, including prescription drugs -Group travel -Special benefits if hospitalized at University Hospital New members, return your completed application with payment postmarked by Feb. 28, and qualify to win a FREE trip to Branson. Current members who renew and return the completed application with payment postmarked by Feb. 28 will qualify for a FREE one-day trip to the Riverbanks Zoo and Botannical Gardens in Columbia, S.C. on April 25.

Call 706/738-2580 for your application.

University Health Care System has been named the National Research Corporation’s Consumer Choice Award winner in the Augusta area for the fourth consecutive year.

M E T R O

The Good and Bad of Cholesterol Cholesterol is a type of fat (called a lipid) that the body uses to help build cells and produce certain hormones.

But too much cholesterol may increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and coronary artery disease by clogging your arteries.

Cholesterol travels through the blood attached to a protein. This cholesterol package is called a lipoprotein.

• High-density lipoproteins (HDL) — “good cholesterol” — are lipoproteins with more protein than fat that prevent cholesterol from building up in your arteries.

• Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) — “bad cholesterol” — are lipoproteins with more fat than protein that cause cholesterol buildup and blockages in your arteries.

Uncontrollable risk factors of high cholesterol - Genetic conditions - Age – After 20, cholesterol levels naturally begin to rise.

- Gender – Men have higher levels than women until women reach 50 and their levels rise.

Preventing and treating high cholesterol requires a range of healthy lifestyle changes, including eating a balanced diet low in saturated fat, getting regular exercise and not smoking. Regular exercise increases your “good” HDL and lowers your “bad” LDL. Smoking decreases “good” HDL and promotes buildup of plaque in your arteries, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease.

For FREE 24-hour health information or to find a physician, call the University HealthService Center at 706/737-8423 (SER-VICE) or 800/476-7378 (SERV).

Foods high in cholesterol include - Egg yolks - High-fat meat and poultry - High-fat milk products

“Cholesterol and Medications” Featuring Kellie V. Lane, M.D. Feb. 20 University Hospital dining rooms 1-3 Registration and buffet dinner: 5:30 p.m.; physician presentation: 6-7 p.m.

Seniors Club members: $8; advance registration: $9; at the door: $10 To register, call 706/736-0847.

Foods low in cholesterol include - Whole grains - Vegetables - Fruits - Low-fat milk products - Beans - Lean meat and poultry Controllable risk factors of high cholesterol - Diabetes - Diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol - Obesity - Smoking - Sedentary lifestyle

Kellie V. Lane, M.D. Cardiologist

Your resource for healthy living.

“Health Risk Assessment Follow-up: Taking the Next Step” Featuring Holly Ford, program manager, University’s Weight Management and Nutrition Center, and Susan Cota, R.N., M.S.N., C.N.S., community relations manager, University Health Care System March 17 By attending any of these heart programs, you will receive a FREE health risk assessment (HRA) to complete. Come back in March for this one-hour dinner program in which the results of your HRA will be given to you.

To register for the following evening programs, call 706/736-0847.

Registration and buffet dinner: 5:30 p.m.; physician presentation: 6-7 p.m.

Seniors Club members: $8; advance registration: $9; at the door: $10 Reservations are required.

“Taking Charge of Your Health — A Program for Women of All Ages” Jacqueline W. Fincher, M.D. Feb. 27 First Baptist Church of Augusta, 3500 Walton Way

Healthy Older Adults For more information, call 706/738-2580.

Glucose Screenings Blood Pressure Checks Height and Weight Measurements Every Wednesday during February 9 a.m.-noon University Seniors Club, Daniel Village Shopping Center FREE during February for members No appointment necessary Healthy Women For the following class or offer, registration is required. Call 706/774-4141 unless otherwise stated.

FREE Mammograms Available Through a grant from the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade, University Breast Health Center offers a FREE mammogram and education for any woman 40 or older who qualifies.

To register for these two programs listed below, call 706/738-2580 or 800/413-6652. These two programs will both be held at University Hospital dining rooms 1-3.

Reservations are required.

HEALTH INFORMATION , CALL

Breakfast with the Doctor “Prevention: The Key to Heart Health” Abdulla M. Abdulla, M.D. March 7 9-11 a.m.

Seniors Club members: FREE; nonmembers: $3

Healthy Parents All classes are held in the Women’s Center classroom on the third floor unless otherwise stated. Registration is required. Call 706/774-2825 for information or to register: Women’s Center Tour TODAY, Feb. 13 7-9:30 p.m.

FREE Refresher Childbirth Preparation Class Feb. 17 and 19 7-9:30 p.m. $50

Log on to learn more: www.universityhealth.org

Breast-Feeding Feb. 20 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Babies R Us, Bobby Jones Expressway FREE

ASK•A•NURSE

FREE

Speech and Hearing Screening

“Focus on Healing” An educational program through dance and movement for breast cancer survivors sponsored by Walton Rehabilitation Hospital and University Breast Health Center March 4, 11, 18, 25 6-7 p.m.

Outpatient Classroom, Walton Rehabilitation Hospital $30 To register, call 706/823-5294.

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Breakfast with the Doctor “Prevention: The Key to Heart Health” Abdulla M. Abdulla, M.D. Feb. 20 9-11 a.m.

Seniors Club members: FREE; nonmembers: $3

For Adults and Children To schedule an appointment, call 706/774-5777.

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out that major discrimination exists since I am a male and can not join this all-female workout establishment even though it is not a private club. Further, I can not join in the fun on the LPGA tour. What is this world coming to? I thought about suing but decided to just get a life instead!

State Senator Joey Brush is at it again, trying to get the motorcycle helmet law repealed. It just goes to prove that if you have a $2 head, there’s no need to protect it!

Those who own fertile dogs should be required to pay substantially higher licensing fees than owners of neutered dogs. This revenue could subsidize the exorbitant cost of neutering and make it affordable for ordinary people.

Additionally, it gives Animal Control a justification for clearing the area of flea-bitten, heartworm-infected junkyard dogs, whose owners don’t provide any veterinary care and certainly won’t be paying any licensing fees.

I was really happy to read that the airport commissioners got back on their lithium.

"Dinner at ASTI'S" Call in your questions & comments to 739-1822 or e-mail at connectlive@comcast.net

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continued from page 5

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Has it ever been more apparent that Austin Rhodes isn’t a journalist but a Republican shill? While he’s always ready to denounce Democratic corruption he has fallen uncharacteristically silent regarding evidence of his Republican friend Linda Schrenko’s malfeasance. Now Austin’s portraying Don Cheeks’ attempt to assist a convicted child molester as heroic.

Augusta deserves better.

Hey Rev. Jackson! Show us the pictures of your illegitimate baby.

As the adoptive parent of a child with a mental disability, I know that I may be overly sensitive and should not become offended when Austin Rhodes talks about people who disagree with him that “they must ride the short bus.” To me this is a juvenile, insensitive and callous remark and is hurtful to any parent who has a child that does ride the “short bus” because of a physical impairment or mental disability. I will admit to listening to his program occasionally, because to his credit he does have lucid moments when he is only stupid. (In my humble “Nimrod” opinion).

I like the guy who is covering the state Capitol for you. He’s informative and funny. Keep him.

I read Austin’s “report” on Senator Cheeks’ involvement in the criminal case of Bobby Brassell. People, please.

Don Cheeks hasn’t done a thing wrong here! He simply wanted to find out on behalf of a person that he thinks has been wronged. Take your heads out of that tunnel you have them stuck in!

One day it may be you who is falsely accused. Kudos to you Senator Cheeks, for trying to see that justice was done in this case.

I am very excited to see Beasley Broadcasting getting into the business of defending admitted child molesters.

Not only defending them, but inviting them to their studio to appear on the Beasley airwaves for two hours. I’m

Words “I frankly don’t care. I wish I had never heard of this defendant. The sooner it goes away the better off I’ll be.”

— District Attorney Danny Craig, in an e-mail he sent to Assistant District Attorney Bobby Christine, regarding the sex-offender registration status of Bobby Clark Brassell Jr., who pleaded guilty to misdemeanor sexual battery on a 3-year-old child. State Sen. Don Cheeks has admitted that he lobbied for Brassell, an acquaintance of his, not to have to register as a sex offender.

“Yes, I interceded. I guess what I should have done was come in there, put my arms around him (Mr. Brassell) and tell him I loved him as a human being, but I couldn’t touch him, because if he had done what he did, I did not want to even see him.”

— State Sen. Don Cheeks, as quoted in The Augusta Chronicle, about his efforts to keep Brassell, an acquaintance, from having to register as a sex offender after pleading guilty to misdemeanor sexual battery on a child.

sure this is a positive thing for the children who have been molested, as well as their loved ones and all concerned.

Congratulations, Beasley. You’ve got some top-notch people!

To the person who wrote in about Laurie Ott and her hairdresser. You really took the words out of my mouth.

I would like to know, and I think the general public would like to know, if Jesse Jackson got his personal appointment with the chairman of the Augusta

National, Hootie Johnson?

Who’s kidding whom? Do you actually think this is the first time an elected official attempted to intervene with local prosecutors to influence the outcome of a case or judicial decision?

Were you born under a rock?

Suburban Torture BY

JULIE

LARSON

- Call our Whine Line at 510-2051 and leave your comments. We won’t use your name. Fax your whines by dialing (706) 733-6663 or e-mail your whines to whine@metspirit.com.

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Chides Rhodes for Supporting Don Cheeks become a one-man vanity press for the Republican Party, he cannot now complain of being duped. If dupe he was, he was a most willing one.

Mr. Rhodes would do well to remember his own homespun adage: If you stand next to garbage long enough, you will smell like garbage.

Sincerely, Joseph O’Connell

The redefined 2003 Volvo S40 comes equipped with standard safety features some other cars in its class don’t even offer as options. Things like full-length Inflatable Side Curtains and a Whiplash Protection Seating System.

The very same standard features that make a Volvo a Volvo. We can also safely say it’s more stylish than ever, with a redesigned exterior that’s more agreeable to the eye.

The redefined Volvo S40 certainly has a lot to offer. Including of course, safety features other imports have yet to even import. Visit your local Volvo retailer or volvocars.com.

*MSRP of the 2003 Volvo S40 as shown with optional equipment is $24,350. Price does not include destination charge, tax and title. See your authorized Volvo retailer for complete details. ©2002 Volvo Cars of North America, LLC. Volvo for life™ is a registered trademark of Volvo. Always wear your seat belt.

G E R A L D J O N E S V O LV O

M E T R O S P I R I T

Letter To the Editor To the Editor: I can just imagine the chagrin with which your columnist, Austin Rhodes, must now regard his Feb. 6 hymn of praise to the sterling character of Sen. Don Cheeks: a man whom we now know to be dishonest and abusive of his power and position.

Rhodes will no doubt blame politicians for his mortifying fall from grace, but the fault, dear Spirit, lies not in politics but in character. Having willingly

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Opinion: Austin Rhodes

Fallout in Brassell Case Still To Come

W

hat an interesting week this has been.

Since last we met, we have all learned a great deal more about the true details and background machinations involving the case of accused child molester Bobby Brassell.

Last Thursday night Augusta Chronicle reporter Sandy Hodson, Spirit publisher David Vantrease, and I, all received a letter from District Attorney Danny Craig apologizing for what he termed “betraying” the three of us in the Brassell matter. In his letter he explained that in an attempt to answer questions about Brassell’s case, he screwed up: “I have made a bad mistake by trying to cover for a judge and a senator ...”

Specifically, Hodson had been asking questions about state Senator Don Cheeks’ lobbying efforts on behalf of the defendant, who had been accused of molesting a family member. Cheeks believed, and still does, that the man is innocent. Facing possible incarceration for 80 years, and out of money for legal defense, Brassell copped a plea to a lesser charge, and was sentenced to probation. As we all learned, a guilty plea in such a case carries a mandatory stint on the state’s sex offender registry. Cheeks said he didn’t know that, and he embarked on a mission to keep his longtime friend off the list.

Craig attempted to run interference when explaining the campaign, selling the maneuver as a different interpretation of state law.

A misunderstanding, if you will. As his letter to us continued, he asked for our forgiveness for doing that.

Speaking of forgiveness, last week several assertions were made in this column based on information given to me by the DA and others that was incomplete. For that, I apologize to you. I also apologize to Sandy Hodson, who I accused on the air of making a mountain out of a molehill in this case. It is clear now that she was on the right track, and I was not. I believed Danny Craig and his explanations.

She didn’t.

It is becoming clear that Craig’s reputation and record may be most at risk in this sordid affair, and that is a shame.

Of the three public officials implicated in this case, Cheeks, Craig and Superior Court Judge Carl Brown, two can be described as advocates. Only one has the power to issue orders and in essence set law once a plea is entered. That would be Judge Brown.

While DA Craig would love to be able to wave a magic wand and have criminals sentenced to a term of his choosing, he is always at the mercy of a judge. Never was that more evident than last year when Rodricus Maxwell, a convicted felon, was once again collared, this time with almost a pound of pure cocaine. Maxwell pleaded guilty in the case, and Judge Carlisle Overstreet sent the prosecuting team into apoplectic shock as he sentenced the young man to 20 years probation, when he should have been sent directly to the penitentiary.

I spent God knows how many days screaming about that case, and sure enough, not six months later was proven right when the scumbag was caught again. Overstreet, with

enough egg on his face to feed an army, finally saw Maxwell sent to the pokey.

That was one case of about a million I could show you, that proves the DA and his team don’t have power to do diddly squat once a plea is entered or a verdict is reached. It is all in the hands of the judge.

In the case of Brassell, the ultimate gatekeeper was Judge Brown. Brown should have told Cheeks to shut up and go away when sentencing Brassell, as Craig should have.

What Judge Brown did, according to Craig, was tell the DA to send over a sentencing order that did not specifically mention the sex offender registry, and that he would sign it.

For some odd reason, Brown seems to be getting off scott free in this deal. Craig and Cheeks are being slammed, but the guy with the real power skates. Well, now that you know the deal, you decide where the blame should go.

Ironically, it appears all the efforts described above would have ultimately failed anyway, because it is the state probation office, not the judge or DA, who places the defendant on the registry. In other words, it would have happened anyway.

This fiasco is giving every critic the chance to go to town on our district attorney, as he is about to prosecute the most important case of his career. Serial killer Reinaldo Rivera is finally going to get his day in court, and if Craig has his way, he will ultimately be executed for the murders to which he has already confessed.

I would like to remind Danny’s critics that he was the only public official who was on the record warning the general public that we had such an animal on the loose several years back.

While then chief deputy Ron Strength was telling civic clubs that there was no serial criminal at work, the DA was on my radio show saying different. He was right, as he is most of the time. Craig’s track record is the best of any elected official in Augusta, bar none.

Danny Craig made a mistake in the Brassell case, and he has apologized for it. The DA has a body of work and a career that has been invaluable to the residents of the CSRA. If the scales of justice are used to measure him, he still comes up a winner.

Unlike Charles Walker, Robin Williams, Ed McIntyre, Charles DeVaney, and many others who have seen their political careers end over questionable ethics and even criminal behavior, Craig came clean. It is time for Judge Brown to do the same thing.

One last note to my friends in the Richmond County Democratic Party. Fun little press conference you had in the matter of Cheeks’ involvement in this case. Since you folks sat quietly while your patron saint Charles Walker was slapped with enough ethics violations to sink a battleship, your moral indignation now rings rather hollow. Par for the course, for the local Democrats. Even in this latest turn of events, Mr. Craig is too good to be numbered among you.

— The views expressed in this column are the views of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. The archived Austin Rhodes columns can now be seen at www.wgac.com.

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9 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

10 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Opinion: Commentary Truth is stranger than fiction!

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF AUGUSTA, GA

YEAR 2004 ANNUAL CONSOLIDATED ACTION PLAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM EMERGENCY SHELTER GRANT (ESG) PROGRAM HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM Notice is hereby given that the Housing and Neighborhood Development on behalf of the Mayor and the Augusta-Richmond County Commission will conduct two (2) Public Hearings for development of the City’s Year 2004 Consolidated Action Plan.

PUBLIC HEARING WHEN: LOCATION:

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2003 11:00 A.M. AND 6:00 P.M. AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY MUNICIPAL BUILDING COMMISSION CHAMBERS 530 GREENE STREET, 8TH FLOOR, ROOM 803 AUGUSTA, GA

The primary purpose of the public hearings is to provide citizens, non-profit agencies and other interested parties with information concerning the Consolidated Plan process, CDBG, ESG and HOME programs and other programs sponsored by the Housing and Neighborhood Development Department. Citizens will have an opportunity to describe their housing and community development needs and voice their concerns on the past, present and future use of CDBG, ESG and HOME funds. The application process for applying for Year 2003 funds will also be explained.

During Year 2004, it is anticipated that the City will receive the following funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: •

Community Development Block Grant - Eligible Activities: Neighborhood Revitalization, Economic Development, Public Facility Improvements, Public Services, etc.

$ 2,849,000

•

Emergency Shelter Grant - Eligible Activities: Homeless Activities by Non-Profits

$

•

HOME Investment Partnership - Eligible Activities: Expand Supply of Affordable Houses

$ 1,449,000

•

Program Income (Loan Repayments) - CDBG estimated program income - $130,000 - HOME estimated program income - $150,000

$ 280,000

TOTAL FUNDS ANTICIPATED FOR YEAR 2004

99,000

$ 4,677,000

Participation of all residents of the City of Augusta, including minorities and non-English speaking persons, as well as persons with mobility, visual or hearing impairments are encouraged to attend. Persons desiring accommodations should contact Rose White, at 821-1797.

Warren C. Smith, Director Housing and Neighborhood Development Department One 10th Street, Suite 430 Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 821-1797 TDD: 821-1797 By:

AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY COMMISSION Bob Young Richard Colclough Lee Beard Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Chairman Administrative Services Committee

Rich Man, Poor Town

By Clyde Wells

R

ecently completed feasibility studies have presented Augusta with three ambitious projects. A $90 million sports center, a $66 million performing arts center and a downtown exhibit and trade center (dollar figures not provided). To say that these projects are badly needed is an understatement for a city lagging in practically every economic indicator in the state and region.

Cities of similar size such as Savannah, Columbus, Greenville and Chattanooga are leaving Augusta in their dust.

The studies all have two things in common. They both trash Bell Auditorium and the civic center and they wax optimistically on the economic feasibility of financing the three centers probably totaling in the neighborhood of $200 million. No problem with the first, though demolishing two apparently sound structures seems a waste.

Surely some use could be found for them; For example, maybe the downtown exhibit and trade center, especially if the area’s lagging economy is jumpstarted by these projects.

As with any ambitious enterprise, the devil is in the details, the details here being the financing. As presented to the city commission, the primary source would be the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) with the additional possibility of a bond referendum. Both would have to be approved by the voters. The sales tax, which could extend to 10, 20 or even 30 years, raises legitimate concerns as to the routing of SPLOST funds away from public works and the city’s infrastructure over this rather extended period of time. However, the sales tax passage is probably doable. The bond referendum? Probably not.

What is questionable in the studies, particularly with the sports arena, is calling on neighboring Columbia and Aiken Counties to pitch in with significant taxpayer funds.

Augusta’s government is viewed by these neighbors as borderline dysfunctional stemming from a divided black-white populace and lacking in leadership, epitomized by a mayor who refuses to recognize the divisiveness problem and spends an inordinate amount of his time hopping around with his foot in his mouth. Suffice it to say, when questioned, a sampling of their public officials expressed bewilderment bordering on outright hilarity.

An intriguing third possibility contained in the studies is funding from the private sector. The Augusta Chronicle owner Billy Morris and Frank Lawrence, owner of Augusta’s arena football franchise, split the $200,000 price tag for the sports arena study. Both would profit from the arena, especially Morris, who, along with his man Paul Simon have pocketed millions from their cutting-horse and barrel-racing shows at the civic center.

Understandably, the study indicates that some $10 million from the private sector, apparently mostly from Morris, would pay for the arena’s horse facility.

But that $10 million figure looks paltry compared to what has happened in recent times in our sister city across the state, Columbus and in Greenville, South Carolina.

In Columbus, a family foundation, the Bradley-Turner Foundation, put up $35 million in an $83 million makeover for the arts, including the RiverCenter Performing Arts Center. Other agencies aided were The Columbus Museum, Springer Opera House, Woodruff Museum of Civil War Naval History, Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Historic Columbus Foundation Inc., Liberty Theater Cultural Center and CocaCola Space Science Center.

These names ring a bell? Almost all have sister institutions in Augusta. In addition the foundation recently presented $25 million to Columbus State University to move its arts and theater departments downtown.

Think Augusta State University. Think downtown Augusta. Think quantum leap in downtown revitalization.

In Greenville, industrialist Roger Milliken’s generosity has been the driving force behind similar civic advancement, including the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport which, serviced by 15 airlines, handles 1.5 million passengers annually. Would that Augusta had a third of those numbers.

And would that Augusta’s member of the “billionaire’s club,” Billy Morris, develop the same philanthropic instinct. Maybe it’s time he considered repaying some of the millions he has taken from Augusta over the years. Even casual scrutiny of his civic contributions reveal that his considerable fortune is always a beneficiary. If he ponied up half the cost of the sports arena, you could wager the farm the voters of Augusta (probably in a state of shock) would pass the sales tax referendum, jumpstarting Augusta beyond the wildest dream.

Well, we can dream, can’t we?

— The views expressed in this column are the views of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

11 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

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12 M E T R O S P I R I T

MetroBeat

F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

Augusta Commission Wants Answers

S

candal has spread like wildfire throughout Richmond County this past week, and for once, it hasn’t had anything to do with the Augusta Commission.

Instead, after almost three years of being investigated by a special grand jury themselves, it was the commissioners’ turn to pose questions to government officials accused of being unethical and less than truthful with the public.

Almost every day for the past week, District Attorney Danny Craig, state Sen. Don Cheeks and Superior Court Judge Carl Brown Jr. have been hammered by The Augusta Chronicle for apparently all playing a crucial role in not requiring an Evans man, who pleaded guilty to sexual battery of a minor, to register as a sex offender in Columbia County.

Cheeks has publicly stated that he believed the Evans man, Bobby Clark Brassell Jr., was innocent of any wrongdoing and therefore called Craig to ask if Brassell would have to register as a sex offender.

Craig, who began the week by stating his office had done nothing wrong, has now acknowledged that he received a call from Cheeks informing him that Brown would not require Brassell to register as a sex offender if the prosecution agreed.

In a letter to members of the media, Craig said his earlier denial of any unethical behavior in the Brassell case was a “very poor choice,” but he was attempting to “cover” for the actions of Brown and Cheeks.

During the Augusta Commission’s public safety committee on Feb. 10, Augusta Commissioner Lee Beard wanted to know what was going to be done about the allegations against Craig, Cheeks and Brown.

“I would like to know from the mayor, as CEO of this organization, what is his position on this,” Beard said. “We are a City of Character. In the past, we’ve had the special grand jury investigate the commission and other members of the government. And we’ve had the sheriff investigate the person who was doing our garbage collection.

“And nobody has said anything about this.”

Augusta Mayor Bob Young was not present at the meeting to respond, but Beard promised to put the topic on the

BY STACEY EIDSON

“Is the mayor going to call for an investigation into this?”

– Augusta Commissioner Lee Beard

commission’s Feb. 18 meeting for discussion because he said he wanted answers.

“Is the mayor going to call for an investigation into this?” Beard asked.

“When we’ve had three people — a senator, a judge and a DA — who cannot agree on what’s being said and ethics are involved, are we going to continue to be silent on this? I want to know where are we going with this.”

When the mayor was told of Beard’s comments following the meeting, Young said he had no idea that Beard wanted him to call for an investigation of matters involving a criminal case in Columbia County.

“Mr. Beard hasn’t spoken to me directly about this, so I don’t know how truly concerned he is,” Young said.

“But let me say this: I have no legal jurisdiction in matters that concern elected state officials, especially as it relates to their conduct in another county because this criminal case is a Columbia County case.”

However, Young said he was going to invite Beard to join with him in meeting with Superior Court Chief Judge William Fleming Jr. to discuss the actions of Craig, Brown and Cheeks in

the Brassell case.

“I want to help accommodate Mr. Beard,” Young said.

While the commission’s questions relating to the Brassell case were probably the most serious of the day, they weren’t the most heated.

During a discussion by the commission’s administrative services committee about the city’s proposal to temporarily relocate the Augusta Fire Department’s administration to the Laney-Walker neighborhood, Augusta Commissioner Willie Mays told City Administrator George Kolb it was time for him to “stop playing games.”

Mays informed the committee that several of his anonymous “sources” had told him that Kolb had no intentions of temporarily relocating the fire department to a building currently being constructed by the Augusta Neighborhood Improvement Corp. at 925 Laney-Walker Blvd.

Last May, the Augusta Commission approved a three-year lease agreement with ANIC for office space to accommodate the city’s Housing and Neighborhood Development department and a one-year lease agreement

for the fire department.

The reason for the one-year lease was because the fire department was planning to build new administrative offices on Highland Avenue by December 2003.

But the temporary relocation to Laney-Walker has hit a snag. The ANIC building is almost a year behind schedule.

Therefore, Augusta Commissioner Bill Kuhlke asked Kolb to present the commission with a complete list of options for where the city could relocate the fire department.

While Mays told Kuhlke he appreciated his “honest and sincere” motion, he didn’t believe Kolb would even include Laney-Walker as an option.

“My sources are saying that you said that the fire department is not going down to Laney-Walker because you’re not going to let it go down there,” Mays told Kolb. “So, I want to know, point blank, man to man ... is it your feeling that you made up your mind that it ain’t going there?”

Kolb simply responded by saying, “If you want us to take a look at it as an option, we will do that.”

Mays began to lose his patience with

Kolb and demanded a more direct answer.

“No, no, no,” Mays said, raising his voice. “This is not a matter of whether you want to take it as an option. I think it’s a point that you are still ducking and playing games as the day-to-day person who operates this city, Mr. Administrator.

“I’ve asked you point blank, have you said, ‘Under no circumstances would it be going down there’?”

Mays said it was a simple “yes” or “no” answer.

“I don’t think it’s a viable option,” Kolb said. “With it (the fire department administration) in Laney-Walker, you’re separating and isolating it from the fire department system within that one spot. And it really doesn’t add anything to the neighborhood.”

Kolb told the commission that he would prefer for a department like the Human Relations Commission to move into the ANIC building.

“That could be a benefit to that community,” Kolb said.

But Mays just shook his head and said, while the HRC department was a very worthy organization, he didn’t understand why the fire department wouldn’t “add” anything to Laney-Walker.

“Everything that is put out there (in Laney-Walker) does not necessarily need to be looking like it’s some type of office for folks in trouble,” Mays said, adding that the community needs variety and if Kolb didn’t understand that, he didn’t understand LaneyWalker.

“You’ve been here over two years,” Mays said, but was quickly corrected

by Kolb. He told Mays that he hadn’t quite been in Augusta two years.

Mays said he wasn’t interested in getting into a “peeing” contest with Kolb.

“I’m not going to get into a timeline of how long you’ve been here or how long you may be here,” Mays said in a serious tone. “You’ve been here long enough to have gotten the point of the arguments relating to Laney-Walker.”

Mays said that if Kolb’s intentions were to try and “wreck” any future development in Laney-Walker, the public needed Kolb to be honest with them.

“Hell, just be truthful,” Mays said.

“Don’t come in here with no pimp games like that.”

The commission will discuss the fire department’s relocation at its next full board meeting on Feb. 18.

The Pill = The Dating Pits?

See page 24

13 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

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Mazzola Could Be the Man

T

he old gang is back, but they’re trying to find new common ground.

Joe Scott and Bonnie Ruben, two of the most vocal and politically opposite members of the Augusta-Richmond County Coliseum Authority, have returned as newly appointed board members following a political game of musical chairs.

First, Ruben was taken off the authority

by Augusta Commissioner Lee Beard last July because her term on the board had expired. While Ruben has publicly said that she believes the move was politically motivated, her departure led to a call to replace all authority members whose terms had expired.

That meant Scott, who was appointed by the local legislative delegation, also was due to be replaced. And who did the new, predominately Republican legislative delegation choose as Scott’s replacement?

Ruben, of course.

While Ruben supporters all over Augusta were having a good chuckle, their joy didn’t last long.

Augusta Commissioner Marion Williams had the last laugh by appointing Scott as his representative to fill his District 2 seat on the authority once held by Belle Clark, who recently resigned from the board.

In the midst of this Ruben and Scott saga, the remaining authority members were desperately searching for a new civic center general manager to replace Reggie Williams, whom the board fired in May. On Feb. 6, the full board met to interview the civic center’s top candidate for the job, John Mazzola.

Mazzola is the former general manager of the Florence (S.C.) Civic Center. He left that position in October 2001 after 14 months on the job.

One of the board’s main concerns about Mazzola, discussed during his interview, was that Mazzola spent only roughly a year in each of his last four positions.

Prior to Mazzola’s position in Florence, he was the general manager at the Monroe (La.) Civic Center from 1999 to 2000.

From 1998 to 1999, Mazzola was the general manager at Niagara Falls Convention Center. And from 1997 to 1998, Mazzola served as the general manager for the

BY STACEY EIDSON

Metropolitan Entertainment Group at the Darien Center in New York.

“I noticed that you don’t stay too long in one particular place,” said authority member Millard Cox. “In a lot of situations you basically need to go to grow,” Mazzola replied, adding that the reason he left several of his positions in the last four or five years was because the arenas he worked for were corporately consolidated.

In fact, Mazzola said, in both Florence and Monroe, he served as senior management for SMG, the private company that formerly managed Augusta’s civic center.

However, Mazzola said the reason he is no longer at the Florence Civic Center is because there was a change in the chairmanship on the board that oversaw the arena. Mazzola said the new chairman did not support his management style.

“In my last situation I achieved the goals I was hired to do, which was to lower the operating deficit,” Mazzola said, adding that during his 14 months in Florence there were three different changes in chairmanship. “The first two chairmen were within my first 12 months, and we actually reduced the operating deficit by just under 10 percent.”

But when the final chairman came on board, Mazzola said he was uncomfortable with the cuts being made at the civic center.

“He wanted to move in a different direction,” Mazzola said.

Following the interview, the board went behind closed doors for an hour to discuss the merits of hiring Mazzola. When the meeting was opened back up to the public, the board unanimously voted to enter into contract negotiations with Mazzola.

Authority Chairman Bernard Harper said he expects the board to offer Mazzola a one-year contract, with a 60-day clause that will allow either party to end the contract with 60 days notice.

Harper said he was very pleased with the interview process and expects great things from Mazzola.

“You want someone who can come in and hit the ground running,” Harper said. “I think Mr. Mazzola has that kind of experience.”

Harper was also encouraged by the unani-

“You always worry about politics. ” – John Mazzola, candidate for Augusta’s civic center general manager

mous vote for Mazzola because he said the key to Mazzola’s success in Augusta will be if the board fully supports him.

“If we can support him 100 percent and keep everything aboveboard, he’ll do fine,” Harper said. “Politics can’t really hurt him unless we allow it to hurt him.”

But, while publicly the full authority seemed to support Mazzola, privately some board members were concerned.

“I thought Mr. Mazzola had moved too many places too quickly,” Scott said. “And in the interview he said this industry is down and it’s not where it’s supposed to be and he couldn’t do anything about it. So, in my opinion, he didn’t tell us anything new that he could change.

“In my opinion we could have gone with Linda (Roberts) and saved money.”

Roberts has served as interim general manager of the civic center since last May; however, Harper said Roberts did not apply for the permanent position.

When asked why he voted in support of Mazzola if he had any reservations, Scott said he was trying to start the year off on a “better foot.”

“I’m trying to get along,” Scott said. “I’m trying to work with the people here and not come in here and be against what they are trying to do.”

Authority member Bill Maddox said he hopes Mazzola knows what he’s getting himself into by coming to Augusta.

“That was the first time I met the man,” Maddox said. “He’s a good talker and I’ve run across that before, but if he comes in here, he’s going to have to perform.

“Personally, if it was me, you couldn’t tie me up and bring me down here no matter what you paid.”

But, after the meeting, Mazzola was nothing but smiles. He said the only way to avoid getting caught up in politics in Augusta is to prove yourself.

“You always worry about politics,” Mazzola said. “But the key is, how much can you collaborate and assemble information that becomes palatable to everyone?

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15 M E T R O

Frustrated Contractor is "Giving Away" $2150 Furnaces for $499 with Off-Season Central Air Conditioners…

(This is great financial news if your furnace is over 8 years old) Yes, it’s absolutely true. You can actually replace your old (and probably very inefficient) furnace and air conditioner as a package for at least $1,600 less than you would have to pay at any other time. Let me explain. Every year, the months of January, February and March can "Kill" my business. I end up losing a ton of money during these "Killer" months and it can take me the remaining nine months to make up for them. And I’m looking for the same thing to happen this year.

My Problem Is Your Opportunity I’ve decided to give up trying to make a profit during the "killer" months. If I can only minimize my losses during January, February and March, I will come out ahead in the other nine months. Here’s how this (admittedly daring) offer came about. Every year, the big manufacturers of air conditioners have to guess how many to build to meet the demand. Of course, they’re never exactly right. So, they always have some inventory they must hold over until the next summer season. I went to one of these companies and contracted for the purchase of 18 premium air conditioners and furnaces in the four most popular sizes used in the Augusta area. Because of the quantity and time of year, I was able to buy them at drastically reduced, dirt cheap, out-of-season prices. They are brand new 2002 models. And they are NOT the seconds or "blems" or standard "builder" models.

They are factory-fresh, premium air conditioners and furnaces and have a full factory warranty.

Here’s How You Can Get A Furnace For Peanuts By putting this furnace and air conditioner package together (then "Jaw-Boning" the factory) and committing to a do-or-die purchase agreement of 18 systems, I was able to buy both the furnace and the air conditioner for less than anyone should have a right to pay! So, if you buy one of these normal 18 new, premium air conditioners (but only if one of the four sizes I have will fit your house, of course), I am "giv-

ing" you the furnace and all I ask for is the $499 in labor it costs to have your furnace installed.

Here’s How Just call us at 722-5304 anytime. We will come out and measure your home (and determine the availability of the proper size). Don’t forget, I only have 18 matched systems in four sizes. When they are gone, this remarkable offer ends also. I will show you the real world price on the air conditioner that fits your home.

Then, I will show you the substantial savings now. And it will include all labor and installation materials. Nothing is left out.

The Concept Is Simple Really By letting you win big now, I will win at the end of the year. I’m betting that if I make you an offer that is "irresistible" (at least it should be if your furnace or air conditioner is over 8 years old) and I barely mark it up above the price I paid, I will accomplish two things: 1. I will cover my rent, utilities, insurance and taxes in the "killer" months.

2. I can pay my professional staff of 14 technicians to work instead of paying them to sit at home or sweep floors.

S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

John Haynie, Owner

decide to make monthly investments instead of paying cash the entire amount of your payments might be more than offset by the savings on your utility bills. It’s like "having your cake and eating it too".

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16

Gold Dome Revue

M E T R O S P I R I T

BY

GREG

LAND

Complete Coverage of the Georgia 2003 Legislative Session

F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

L’estate, c’est ... Sonny?

S

o quickly did that breeze of revolutionary democracy waft through the corridors beneath the Golden Dome. Have the royal trappings been so quickly disinterred from their sooty vaults?

Alas, so t’would appear. In a show of force well worthy of his deposed predecessor, King Sonny ... er, Governor Sonny Perdue has recently dropped — albeit briefly — the charmingly folksy facade of downhome populist, displaying his own penchant for the exercise of royal power.

First, the governor followed through on his State of the State challenge to Attorney General Thurbert Baker’s constitutional authority, demanding that the AG drop the state’s defense of state Senate districts pushed through the Democratic Legislature last year, which are currently facing a legal challenge scheduled to be heard before the U.S. Supreme Court.

In a move worthy of any of the heavyhanded gubernatorial monarchs peering from their gilded frames outside his office, Perdue last week declaimed himself the representative of the people of Georgia and retained private counsel to sue Baker’s office, forcing a showdown with another statewide elected official that even some high-level Republicans admit privately may be on shaky legal grounds.

But that exercise seems only to have whetted the diet-minded governor’s appetite. He followed up by demanding that the entire State Ethics Commission — an independent panel of appointees historically immune to “regime change” firings — submit their resignations in order that he might select a panel of his own choosing. This is not only a slap at one of the few state agencies that have genuinely displayed a willingness to perform its duties to the maximum extent permitted by a paper-thin budget and deliberately anemic authority; it also reeks of conflicted interest: The Ethics Board is currently considering ethics complaints against Perdue himself.

Certainly, the Senate map being challenged is an egregious example of political gerrymandering, says Republican Sen. Dan Lee, the LaGrange Republican who switched parties partly in anger over the redistricting process and now heads the

ON WEDNESDAY, GOVERNOR PERDUE FINALLY UNVEILED HIS PLAN FOR HANDLING DISSATISFACTION WITH THE STATE FLAG: A REFERENDUM, TO BE PLACED ON THE

MARCH 2004 PRI-

MARY BALLOT, ALLOWING VOTERS TO

“UP OR DOWN” ON THE CURRENT FLAG, AND TO CHOOSE BETWEEN THE JUST-DISCARDED FLAG WITH ITS CONFEDERATE BATTLE EMBLEM, OR THE PRE-1956 DESIGN FEATURING THREE RED AND WHITE STRIPES — VOTE

REMINISCENT OF THE ORIGINAL

Governor Sonny Perdue Senate Redistricting Committee. The map, says Lee, “was never driven by any legal issue, but (is) a purely political creation.”

Even so, Baker can point to the state Constitution to bolster his assertion that all matters concerning legal issues addressing the state fall under his purview. And his argument that allowing the High Court to end 38 years of uncertainty over just what constitutes a “majority black” district under the Voting Rights Act, while convenient, also carries a certain weight. Basically, this is the sort of issue that two constitutional officials work out between themselves or, if necessary, with the guidance of the Legislature. (Lee has already introduced a bill calling on Baker to withdraw from the case.)

In addition to new Perdue-backed legislation calling for concise, party-neutral district mapping henceforth, the Senate is also considering a bill re-drawing the dis-

CONFEDERATE NATIONAL FLAG. VOTERS MUST CHOOSE ON EACH ISSUE, OR THEIR VOTES WON’T COUNT. tricts it’s currently using.

Understandable. But one has to wonder: Given that Democrats have such a glorious history of shooting themselves in every toe whenever they get out their little Make-A-Map kits, why not let ‘em redraw the things every two years? Hell, the whole state’d be Republican by 2010.

On one point, at any rate, the governor is most decidedly not wielding his scepter. On Wednesday, he finally unveiled his plan for handling dissatisfaction with the state flag: a referendum, to be placed on the March 2004 primary ballot, allowing voters to vote “up or down” on the current flag, and to choose between the just-discarded flag with its Confederate battle emblem, or the pre1956 design featuring three red and white stripes — reminiscent of the original Confederate national flag. Voters must choose on each issue, or their votes won’t count.

Now, this strategy serves two ends.

First, it keeps the controversial decision off the November 2004 ballot, where it might embarrass the president (whose administration seems to host more Rebels than the graveyard at Vicksburg), and it also gives Georgians their first-ever taste of instant-runoff voting. Hey, we’re progressive! Call the Greens!

Local Lawmakers Among our local lawmakers, Sen. Don Cheeks continues to draw attention to himself — like it or not. Following Tuesday’s Augusta press conference in which local Democrats announced their intention to file ethics charges and seek the senator’s resignation over his efforts to keep a local man off of a sex-offender registry, an angry Cheeks defended himself.

“I welcome any investigation; I have done no wrong,” said Cheeks. “I have not

convicted felons, and I will not step down ... I have a letter from the district attorney stating that I have done no wrong.” Cheeks says he still thinks the man, Bobby Clark Brassell, is innocent of the charges. “If he’s guilty, he should be in prison,” said Cheeks. “But if he’s innocent, he’s been tried and convicted by the media.”

Cheeks says his Democratic accusers are angry because he switched parties immediately following last years’ elections, “and I expect the people who don’t like me will have a field day attacking me as long as I’m alive.”

(In a related note, House lawmakers including Rep. Henry Howard, DAugusta, last week introduced legislation barring elected officials from changing parties until the expiration of their terms.

While unlikely to pass, it should give Dems a chance to vent a bit before it dies in the Senate.)

Workin’ hard, hardly workin’ In what seems to GDR to be a positive sign, this General Assembly seems remarkably loathe to actually pass any legislation. So far, the House has passed a whopping seven bills — that averages out to one every two session days, so far. And they’re the workaholics; over in the Senate, the second bill of the session was approved on Tuesday. (By press time, they might have struggled through one or two more.)

Which is not to say there aren’t plenty of bills in the works. Among ‘em: • Senate Majority Leader Tom Price, a physician, on Tuesday introduced legislation capping medical malpractice rewards for pain and suffering at $250,000. The bill, mirroring national efforts to reign in soaring malpractice insurance rates that are driving some doctors out of business, is bound to run into tough opposition from plaintiffs’ attorneys, who contend that insurance companies are using malpractice awards as an excuse to recoup losses suffered in the Wall Street meltdown.

• A House measure creating a felonylevel offense of child endangerment — similar to legislation passed in every other state, according to backers — was briefly threatened on Monday by gunrights backers, who were afraid that someone could be prosecuted for leaving a loaded firearm laying around where Junior might grab it. Despite those misgivings, the bill received a unanimous “do-pass” ruling by the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.

• GOP-led legislation introduced by Rep. Ben Harbin, R-Martinez, aimed at closing the massive budget gap, would provide a two-month amnesty to allow Georgians who owe back taxes to the state to make good without penalty. A similar amnesty in 1992 raised some $51 million, said Harbin.

• And finally, in a sign that a new regime is indeed in charge, backers of a House bill requiring that seatbelts be worn in pickup trucks are getting support from both sides of the aisle.

Similar legislation had been forcefully killed by former House Speaker Tom Murphy on a regular basis, along with another part of the new measure that would raise the current fine for not wearing a seatbelt — currently $15 — to a whopping $250. Yowza.

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M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

18 M E T R O S P I R I T

After the Fall

By Brian Neill

F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

S

ince his 20-year-run in the state Legislature came to an abrupt end in November, former state Senate Majority Leader Charles Walker said he has set his sights on an even higher political office — that of private citizen.

“Which is the highest position in our political system, because the citizens elect all elected officials,” Walker said, during a recent sit-down interview in the offices of The Walker Group, which house his temporary employment agency and Augusta Focus newspaper, off LaneyWalker Boulevard.

“I have no plans at the moment concerning my political future,” Walker added. “I’m just letting everything rock along. I’m enjoying my role as an 18handicapper.”

Since his defeat, Walker says he has been concentrating on two things: his golf game, and an autobiography he’s been working on with Richmond County school board spokesman, Justin Martin.

The book, for which Walker is now seeking a publisher, could be out by the fall, Walker said.

“It sort of traces my journey from Burke County all the way to the Senate majority leader,” Walker said. “It talks about Augusta, America, the South, politics, racism, and it really talks about how Augusta is a microcosm of the world and if you take Atlanta out of Georgia, you’ll have Mississippi or Arkansas. It’s no different than these other Southern states.

So I talk about that.

“I try to paint a picture of how to survive in this environment, more than anything.”

Asked if he meant how to survive as a black individual, Walker replied, “Really, it doesn’t apply to black or white. It’s just the way the system is. Some people get a pass and some don’t.”

Walker said one person who seems to have gotten such a “pass” is Don Cheeks, referring to the recent incident in which the 23rd Dist. Republican state senator asked that an acquaintance of his not be required to register as a sex offender after the man pleaded guilty to misdemeanor sexual battery on a 3-year-old.

Cheeks has defended his actions and said that he truly believed the defendant was innocent.

“I think that you have to be insane to support a person who pleads guilty to child molesting a 3-year-old,” Walker said. “It is inconceivable to me that someone would support not putting that person on the (sexual offender) registry.

“I think anybody else would be forced

to resign (his seat). A 3-year-old? (The defendant) pleaded guilty? But yet, Cheeks is going to make an independent decision that this man is innocent. Good God almighty.”

There’s been no shortage of venom between Walker and Cheeks, particularly since the last election.

Prior to Walker’s defeat by Republican challenger Randy Hall, Cheeks made publicized comments alleging that Walker had a habit of intimidating constituents and bullying individuals for support.

Shortly after Walker lost, Cheeks announced that he was switching from Democrat to Republican.

Adding another twist, Robert Finch, Walker’s former chief of staff, went public with allegations that Walker unethically solicited contributions from lobbyists. Finch also said that Walker had a green, stuffed toy dog on his desk, and when anyone asked for a favor, Walker would rub the dog’s head and ask what was in it for his little friend.

Finch, who ran unsuccessfully against Walker’s son, Charles “Champ” Walker Jr., in the 12th Dist. Congressional Democratic Primary, was recently hired as a legislative aide, working in offices shared by Hall and Cheeks.

“Finch was and is a Republican operative,” Walker said.

“It says I’m rather stupid; yeah, that’s what it says. Go ahead, print that,” Walker said, when reminded that he had hired Finch as his chief of staff. “Let me tell you how stupid I was, and I don’t consider myself to be a dummy. I hired him, I brought him to my house, he slept in my house, he befriended my children and my wife and my employees, and he sold me a bill of goods. I missed that whole issue.”

Walker said the green dog story was untrue, adding that Finch, himself, had told reporters that he never actually observed such a dog or witnessed Walker’s alleged dealings with lobbyists.

Walker also said he has not been approached by FBI agents regarding his connections to the Augusta Neighborhood Improvement Corporation (ANIC).

A December story in The Augusta Chronicle reported that FBI agents had interviewed a local contractor about Walker’s relationship with ANIC, which has as its mission, among other things, urban renewal in the Laney-Walker community.

“I have no knowledge that the FBI is continued on page 20

“I wonder whether everybody can withstand the public scrutiny that I have withstood. I can withstand the scrutiny of the FBI or the GBI or anybody else. I have nothing to hide so I have no problem with an investigation.”

— Former state Sen. Charles Walker

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19

Straight Talk

M E T R O

UPSIDE DOWN? Have you heard these words during your visit to a local dealership?

"You're upside down!" "You have too much negative equity!" "You owe too much on your car!" How did it happen? What can I do? Whose fault is it?

Being upside down in a car means that you owe more on the car than it's worth.

Another way to put it is that you owe more on the loan than you could reasonably expect to get by selling or trading the car.

Negative equity can occur in many ways.

• The customer trades in a car that is already upside down and transfers the negative equity to the new purchase.

• The car they are buying is not purchased at a reasonable value.

• The customer opts for 0% in lieu of a lower price after rebate. (The interest is prepaid in the price of the car not when as it is earned.)

• Creative financing such as Deferred payments, balloon notes, etc. that delays the paying of principle.

• The product does not sustain its predetermined value (MSRP) due to market fluctuations and supply and demand.

• The customer puts no money down.

• The sales tax is financed with the car loan. (7% on $20,000 in GA equals $1400.00 that is consumed upon delivery, $300 for SC residents to never be regained yet it in the loan.)

• The customer, through usage and high miles, depreciates the car faster than they pay for it.

• Customer opts for extended terms to get a lower payment that is below the car's monthly depreciation, thereby creating a negative equity or a "GAP".

• Customer leases a car for 12,000 miles a year but drives 30,000. (Translates to average upside down penalty of approximately $8100). The mistake was not in leasing the car, but in not matching the lease to the driving habits.

• Customer pays too high of an interest rate.

• Non-disclosure of finance methods through closing tools such as "Consumer Choice, Advanced Equity, or Four Square where you buy a payment and not a car.

How do you avoid negative equity?

• DON'T finance a car for more months than you think you want to own it.

• Make the biggest down payment you can. (At least pay the amount of tax down.)

• Choose a shorter term loan if possible.

• Buy a vehicle that is known to hold it value longer and has a strong history for resale.

• Take your time in purchasing a car. Make sure you meet your "needs" first and then add as many "wants" that will fit into your budget.

What do I do if I am I already upside down?

• Hold onto your current car as long as you can.

• Sell the car yourself to reduce liability. (Caution: This is hard work.)

• Accelerate your loan payments.

• Trade it in on a lease (with miles contracted to match your needs) because you can get shorter terms, lower payment, and built in GAP insurance company in the event of total loss.

• Put enough cash down to off-set your negative equity. Negative equity is a "pay me now or pay me later" problem. Usually the "now" is the least expensive.

• If you finance your car, particularly, put no cash down, drive over average miles, carry negative to the new car loan, or buy a cheap product I highly recommend that you purchase Gap Insurance. Gap Insurance which insures the difference between what you owe (sometimes with limitations) and what your insurance company will reimburse in case of total loss (accident or theft) costs about $250-$450 per contract and is the most valuable option you will be offered at the time of purchase.

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S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

20 continued from page 18 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

investigating anything, but if they are, I have full confidence in the integrity of their system and I will be just as happy the day they finish investigating as when they start,” Walker said. “I wonder whether everybody can withstand the public scrutiny that I have withstood. I can withstand the scrutiny of the FBI or the GBI or anybody else. I have nothing to hide so I have no problem with an investigation.”

Walker was credited with getting $20 million in economic development funding for Augusta, which was funneled through ANIC to particular projects.

A rather lengthy article by Ken Foskett of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that ran last year pointed to the many connections Walker and his businesses had to state money.

One of the most glaring examples of apparent impropriety was a building on Laney-Walker Boulevard the CSRA Business League leased from Walker for five years at $240,000, twice what Walker reportedly paid for the building less than a year earlier.

The CSRA Business League gets funding from ANIC and Walker serves on ANIC’s board of directors.

Walker denies profiting from either agency.

“ANIC does not rent any space, has never rented any space, has never purchased any houses or land or anything from me. No one has alleged that,” Walker said. “If they have, it would be false. What you’re referring to is, the CSRA Business League rented space from The Walker Group through an agency, on Laney-Walker, and they were paying rent. But they also received grants from ANIC for economic development purposes.

“The money from ANIC was never used to pay for the rent. The agency had other monies that they were using prior to ever getting that grant.”

“The fact of the matter is, the rent is not exorbitant,” Walker added. “Eleven dollars a square foot in the Laney-Walker area is very reasonable. I mean, if you rent property on Broad Street it costs you $22 or $23 a square foot. Why must we devalue property in the black community?”

Walker added that he doesn’t serve on the CSRA Business League’s board, and would therefore have no say in its decision-making.

When asked about the perception that he wields influence over many people and

agencies, Walker said that’s only natural as a politician.

“In 20 years, you’re going to be somehow involved in every program in Augusta if you do your job,” Walker said.

“I just think my influence is greatly exaggerated. You’ve got to have somebody who you want to say is in charge of everything and it might as well be me.”

Walker called Foskett’s article a “farce” and “unadulterated yellow journalism at its worst.”

However, last year, Walker’s ethics, or lack thereof, landed him an $8,500 fine — the highest to date for an elected official — from the Georgia State Ethics Commission.

The commission was prepared this month to take up other ethics complaints against Walker, but commissioners concurred that most of the issues had already been dealt with at the time Walker was fined.

Walker called his ethics infractions, including the charge that he did not disclose lucrative contracts between his Georgia Personnel Services and Grady Hospital in Atlanta, mere technicalities.

Richard Yarbrough, one of the ethics commissioners present at the meeting at which Walker was fined, thought differently, saying that Walker had essentially thumbed his nose at the public and gotten off scot-free with the $8,500 fine.

“It doesn’t seem that that’s much of a penalty given what I consider to be egregious behavior,” Yarbrough told fellow commissioners at the meeting in January of last year. “To have that kind of a position and have that much ignorance of the ethics laws is to me, reprehensible.”

Walker has his own words for Yarbrough.

“He was a right-wing, down-in-thecountry peckerhead,” Walker said. “He ain’t s—-.”

Walker said he wouldn’t pay the fine if he had it to do over again.

“That was the mistake. I should have never paid the fine,” Walker said. “I should have went there and fought it all the way. That’s the biggest mistake I ever made. I shouldn’t have paid a nickel, because I hadn’t violated no laws.”

Since his defeat in November, Walker has set his Augusta Focus newspaper on attack mode, trotting out indictments in the form of open letters against William “Billy” Morris III, publisher of The Augusta Chronicle, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s editorial page editor, Cynthia Tucker, among others.

“That was the mistake. I should have never paid the ($8,500 ethics) fine. I should have went there and fought it all the way.

That’s the biggest mistake I ever made. I shouldn’t have paid a nickel, because I hadn’t violated no laws.”

— Former state Sen. Charles Walker

Tucker, an African-American, has dogged Walker over the years for his ethical missteps and once wrote in her column that the former senator had “cheapened the suffering of millions of African-Americans” by suggesting that the scrutiny he had received was the result of racism.

Walker has accused Tucker of having a biased agenda.

But Walker still laid at least part of the blame for his recent defeat on racism, adding that his loss by 266 votes came as a shock.

“Sure it surprised me,” Walker said.

“But I could not measure the undergrinding of resentment that was going on in the community ... the flag, and just racism in general.”

As for Morris, Walker said he thinks the Chronicle publisher hides his politics behind his newspaper.

“He is the ultimate politician and if he says he’s not, he is lying,” Walker said.

“Because, he’s involved in every major political decision that goes on in Augusta, Georgia. He knows it and I know it. If he’s not there directly, he’s got his henchmen there. Trust me, he’s involved in every one of them. Every one of them.”

Morris has not responded to recent requests by The Spirit for an interview.

Walker said his Augusta Focus will soon embark on a series of news stories about Morris.

“I’m turning it over to my reporters and my people and they are finding information out,” Walker said. “There will be a series of stories as time goes on about Billy Morris and the Morris empire and the Morris newspaper.”

Walker chooses to say little about his son’s failed congressional run or political plans for the future, stating only that Champ Walker’s loss to Republican Max Burns was even more of a disappointment than his own.

“I’ve had a 20-year run, so it sort of hurt me more that he lost. Because I think he’s a good boy, a good kid, and Max Burns just raked him over the coals,” Walker said. “Max Burns gets under my skin worse than anybody in the world, because he says he’s a Christian and a good deacon. CNN called his campaign ads the worst political ads in the history of politics.”

Walker said the assumption that he will throw his hat into the political ring at the next opportunity might be wrong, particularly if he gets his golf score down to 82.

Asked if he was tired of politics, Walker said, “Yes, I am tired of the abuse that goes along with being a public official. I don’t like that anymore. I used to be able to handle that, but I’m tired of it. I’m 55 years old, so I’m tired of it.

“But I’ll evaluate my future as I move forward. I’m very resilient. I fight back very well.”

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TOUGH LOVE:

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AUGUSTA’S J

RUGBY CLUB

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRIAN NEILL

ust before heading off into a mob of grunting, muscle-legged men all fighting for the same ball on the playing field at Richmond Academy, 21-year-old Alexi Servy says he doesn’t believe one gets hurt as often playing rugby, as football.

Watching these men pound into each other for the past half hour, occasionally emerging from wrestling clusters called “rucks” with bloody noses or ears, Servy’s statement is anything but convincing.

The potential for injury aside, however, the game of rugby certainly is interesting, albeit indecipherable, to the first-time observer.

This particular match on a recent Saturday afternoon is a pre-season scrimmage between the Old Boys and the Young Boys.

Servy, who’s been playing for three years, is a member of the Young Boys team, and, as logic would have it, older players like 53year-old Michael Harrison (pictured left) round out the Old Boys.

“Our minds play a lot better rugby than our bodies at this point,” jokes Harrison, who was present on the evening 30 years ago when a group of strapping young men gave birth to the Augusta Rugby Football Club over countless pitchers of beer at Squeaky’s TipTop on Central Avenue.

Since then, Harrison has seen players come and go. The sport’s fan base locally has also had its ups and downs.

“It’s ebbed and flowed over the years,” Harrison said. “That’s our big struggle, is to get known and to try to recruit and keep things going. There have been matches when we’ve had 400 and 500 people and then there have been matches when we’ve had 20. And overseas, we’ve played in front of as many as 25,000.”

In the team’s 30-year existence, it has traveled abroad to compete at least half a dozen times, Harrison said.

Local plastic surgeon and Old Boy team member, Dr. William Welsh, remembers the Augusta Rugby Football Club’s heyday in the mid-1980s, when the team experienced few defeats.

“We built up our team so in the mid-80s we could beat any team in the country on any given day,” Welsh recalled, while taking a breather from the recent scrimmage game.

“And people knew that. We would go places and play like Chicago and people would say, ‘Who are you guys? Where did you come from?’ And so we had a tradition of winning up until, oh, maybe the mid-90s and then us old guys started getting too old to compete with the young guys and we just didn’t get new guys coming in.”

The game of rugby takes its cues from soccer and football, although the actual play often bears little resemblance to either.

A rugby team is comprised of 15 players.

Essentially, the match begins with a kickoff and a return as in football. There are no forward passes allowed and the ball can only be moved down the field by running or kicking.

A tackled player must immediately release the ball and the tackler must release the tackled player.

Routinely, a group of players merge together in a mass vying for possession of the ball.

If the ball is still in possession of the player, this is called a “maul.” If the ball is on the ground, it’s called a “ruck.”

Points are scored when a “try,” is awarded, which occurs when the ball is kicked or carried over the goal line and pressed to the ground. Five points are given for a successful try, and an additional three points can be

earned by a goal kick, similar to a field goal in football.

Like soccer, the game is in continuous motion. A rugby match consists of two 40minute halves with only a short break in between.

Even though the play during this scrimmage game, at times, looks a bit disorganized, Welsh says that a match consisting of more experienced players has a natural flow and rhythm.

“When you’ve got two good teams playing, it’s very organized,” Welsh said. “The forwards take the ball and put it in one place and they get it out to the backs, and then the forwards jump on it again,” Welsh said. “It’s sort of a like a volleyball game: forwards, forwards, out to the backs; forwards, forwards, out to the backs. And it moves down the field and when the backs get it moving very cleanly, it’s a real structured game.”

It’s a game that also requires a lot of stamina.

“It’s actually a very demanding sport,” Servy said. “You have to be able to run 80 minutes. You have to be able to hit and do short bursts and actually accelerate while you’re going.”

Servy said the typical rugby player also needs a fair amount of stamina for post-game revelry, a trademark of the sport.

“It’s very social. It’s like a tight-knit family, rugby is,” said Servy, whose father, Dr. Edouard Servy, used to coach the team.

“There’s always a party after every game. We have our own little rituals, you know, crazy stuff we do — a lot of drinking, a lot of drinking games, the songs we sing.”

Bob Nelson, president of the Augusta Rugby Football club, was off on the sidelines

tending to a bloody nose on the sleeve of his jersey while holding his 20-month-old son, Sam. “You don’t really realize what happens.

Other than that, I got up and it hurt,” said Nelson, when asked about his injury. “I probably got kneed. That’s a normal injury.”

Nelson, who plays the flyhalf position, which is similar to a quarterback in football, however, echoed Servy’s sentiment that the game of rugby is relatively injury-free.

“Rugby’s got a reputation of being real rough and sometimes it’s deserved,” Nelson said. “But a lot of times you play several games without getting injured. You wake up with bumps and bruises, but hardly anything serious.”

Still, Glenn DeGraaf, a local chiropractor who grew up playing rugby in South Africa, can’t resist poking fun.

“I actually came out to drum up some business today,” he says.

DeGraaf, 43, said he’d like to see more support for rugby, but acknowledges the game will likely never hold a place as a spectator sport in America.

“The problem in America is, you already have your contact sport. You have football,” DeGraaf said. “I’ve never seen growth as far as rugby is concerned. I don’t think rugby will ever be a big, big sport in America. To me, the next big sport is soccer. You know, hockey is still trying to make it.”

The Augusta Rugby Football Team is always on the lookout for new players, even those who have never played the game before.

There is also a women’s rugby team, the Augusta Furies.

Those interested in joining either team can visit www.augustarugby.org, or call Michael Harrison at (706)284-4444.

23 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

Top: Flanker Jason Juntunen is brought down; Bottom: Glenn DeGraaf feels the heat while making his way down the field.

’ You re

Our Type.

Whether you’re A, B, O, or AB—positive or negative—Saturn of Augusta is out for blood!

We’ve teamed up with Saturn UAW and other Saturn dealers all over the U.S. to take blood donations in conjunction with the American Red Cross. It’s the nation’s largest one-day blood drive...be a part of it by donating blood at Saturn of Augusta!

You can also learn about other life-giving donations such as stem cells and bone marrow. The Red Cross Bloodmobile is here from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. You’ll get a free t-shirt and a chance at one of our Valentine’s Day door prizes. See you there!

Saturn National Donor Day

6th Annual Donor Day, Saturn Of Augusta, Friday, February 14, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

1770 Gordon Highway • 706-731-9000 • Toll Free 866-729-9999 • www.VolunteerAugusta.com

24 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3

The Pill = The Dating Pits?

2 0 0 3

By taking daily a little pill no bigger than the tip of your pinkie finger, are women all around the world dooming their love lives?

By Stacey Eidson

T

wo single women walk into a bar.

It’s Valentine’s Day. The first woman immediately approaches a tall, scruffy man leaning up against the bar in the middle of the room.

This rugged, Carolina cowboy has just begun describing his day’s adventures and, already, there are several young, salivating women hanging on his every word.

The first woman takes a seat on a stool directly in front of the man.

“He’s dangerously sexy,” she hears one of the young women warn her with a giggle.

The man stops his story briefly to admire the new member of his adoring audience, but then continues, with exaggerated motions, his convoluted tale. The first woman watches his strong jawline and square chin move up and down as he describes getting into an argument with his boss earlier that day.

In the dim light of the bar, she can’t help but notice this man could easily pass for Russell Crowe’s twin brother – only replace Crowe’s sexy Australian accent with a thick Southern drawl.

“I’ve found my Valentine,” the first woman whispers to herself.

Meanwhile, the second single woman takes a seat at a table in the corner of the room. She watches the commotion Mr. Russell Crowe wannabe is causing at the bar and rolls her eyes. She can’t believe her friend appears to have fallen for another macho Bohemian.

“May I sit down with you?” she hears someone ask from behind.

The woman turns around to see a thin, clean-shaven businessman standing next to her, still dressed in his suit and tie. She invites the man to join her.

As he takes a seat with a drink in his hand, the woman can’t help but notice that although this man is very tall, even lanky, he has extremely soft features.

For one, his face is quite pale and smooth.

There’s no trace of a five o’clock shadow even though it’s almost after midnight.

His light brown hair is thick, but short and clean cut. And his eyes are a stunning clear blue – easily his most attractive facial feature.

Finally, she notices his lips are full and have a natural pink hue to them as he nervously stumbles through a description of his job.

“He’s cute, in a Hugh Grant sort of way,” the woman tells herself, as she gives the man an encouraging smile.

The man shyly smiles back.

So, who finds love this Valentine’s Day? The first or second woman? And what’s the

difference between the two women? Why did one go for Mr. Sexy, while the other woman was attracted to Mr. Sensitive?

According to a new study released in January by psychologists at St. Andrews and Stirling universities in Scotland, the two women’s drastically different tastes in men could be a result of their choice in contraceptives.

The study, led by Anthony Charles Little of the University of St. Andrews, found that women taking birth control pills are more often drawn to men with more masculine features, such as a well-defined jaw line and prominent cheekbones.

Researchers reportedly reached this conclusion by showing women, both on and off the pill, images of many different kinds of men and asking them to pick out potential longterm partners.

The study also states that women not taking oral contraceptives are more likely to select men with feminine or softer physical features.

Nothing wrong with that, right?

After all, in our little scenario, both the first woman — who, let’s say, uses birth control pills — and the second woman — who does not — could potentially go home happy.

Couldn’t they?

According to Little’s study, it’s unlikely the first woman’s romance with the Russell Crowe wannabe will last.

BBC News in Great Britain reported that Little’s study finds that birth control pills actually encourage women to get involved in relationships with “inappropriate men” or men not interested in long-term commitment.

The study says that, because women taking the pill are not ovulating and therefore can’t get pregnant, they more often enter into a relationship based merely on physical attraction.

Little’s study states that the pill causes women to be “subconsciously attracted to sexy, macho men” rather than men with more feminine features.

His research even suggests that guys with more feminine features are more likely to be sensitive, trustworthy and faithful husbands, as well as better future fathers. “(Men) with baby-like faces are seen as being warmer, more honest, and more sincere – but also more naive and less physically strong,” Little wrote in a recent article published in First Science magazine.

“Masculine-faced males are thought to make poor parents but have high-quality genes, so they may make bad long-term partners but may be attractive in the short-term.

“Conversely, feminine-faced males are seen

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% 25 Pamper your

as better parents and more co-operative, and so we might expect that they would make attractive long-term partners.”

While some men may take exception to that characterization, Little recently told the press that women on the pill should be very careful when choosing a partner.

“When a woman chooses her partner on the pill, and then comes off it to have a child, she may find she’s married to the wrong man,” Little told the New York Post on Jan. 21.

So, by taking daily a little pill no bigger than the tip of your pinkie finger, are women all around the world dooming their love lives?

It’s been more than 40 years since the birth control pill was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1960 and it continues to be the most popular form of contraceptive on the market.

Therefore, if you believe Little’s study, there are a lot of women walking around married to the wrong man or desperately jumping from one bad relationship to another.

Within days, Little’s research was featured in national women’s magazines, all over the Web, and it even managed to grab a segment on Good Morning America with Diane Sawyer.

But before single women across America started tossing out their birth control pills in fear of never finding true love, Good Morning America invited sisters, Laura Berman, a sex therapist, and Jennifer Berman, a urologist, to comment on Little’s findings.

And basically they told women: Don’t believe the hype.

The Bermans said they found serious questions left unanswered in Little’s study.

For example, Laura Berman said that Little and his research team failed to collect any information about the history of the women’s tastes in men.

“We don’t know enough about who these women were attracted to before they were on the pill,” Laura Berman told Good Morning America.

Her sister agreed, telling Sawyer, “You can’t say the pill is causing us to choose one type versus another. Women on the pill might be more sexually active and just want those men anyway.”

The Bermans said women’s time would probably be better spent finding out about the real potential side effects related to birth control pills such as mood swings, weight gain, nausea, migraines, a change in sex drive and bleeding between periods.

Some studies have also found women on the pill have a small increased chance of heart attack, stroke or the formation of blood clots.

Women should consult their physicians for information about these potential side effects.

And, of course, while the pill has as high as a 99-percent effectiveness rate in preventing pregnancy, the pill does not protect individuals from sexually transmitted diseases.

While some people may think Little’s study is absurd, this isn’t the first time he and his research team have taken a crack at trying to explain human attraction.

In June 2002, ABC News reported that Little and his colleague, David Perrett, conducted a study that found that people have an instinct to pair with people who resemble themselves.

In this test, 30 male and female students in Scotland were reportedly asked to rate a group of faces in terms of those they found the most and least attractive.

Prior to conducting the test, each student had his or her picture taken by a research assistant. Unbeknownst to the students taking the test, the research team graphically altered their pictures to resemble a member of the opposite sex.

ABC News reported that the study found each person consistently chose the altered version of their own face as the most attractive option.

While it’s obvious this particular study is clever and highly entertaining, even Perrett and Little warned that it was not definitive proof that people’s versions of beauty reflect their own looks.

They say the purpose of their research is to simply explore the factors that influence the attractiveness of faces.

So, if you’re sitting at home alone this Valentine’s Day wondering why you haven’t met Mr. Right, chances are it’s not because you’re on birth control pills.

And who’s really to say a Russell Crowe wannabe isn’t a better match for a woman, on or off birth control pills, than a Hugh Grant look-alike?

After all, who can forget “nice guy” Hugh Grant’s infamous arrest a few years ago along Sunset Boulevard with prostitute Divine Brown making herself comfortable in his lap?

Obviously, looks can be deceiving.

— To learn more about Little’s research or even take a crack at one of his on-line experiments currently underway, check out Little’s Web site at www.st-andrews.ac.uk/~ac13.

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26 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

Arts

& Entertainment

The Quest for Karaoke Talent

BY LISA JORDAN

S

o you’re one of the millions of people glued to “American Idol” every Tuesday night (it’s OK to admit it – I’m watching it as I write). If Simon kicked you to the curb at the Atlanta auditions, don’t despair – you still have a chance at fame and fortune. And you don’t have to venture too far from home to start.

For the next 23 weeks, Augusta’s own Greene Streets karaoke club is participating in the 2003 Talent Quest national karaoke championships.

“These are the preliminary rounds and there are two sets of contests,” says Penny Meeks, a.k.a. Big Papa, DJ at Greene Streets. “Twelve weeks of country and western and 12 weeks of pop, rock, rhythm and blues and soul. …

Women will compete on Wednesday nights and men will compete on Thursday nights.”

“Mostly around the country, the contest starts on a local level the first of March, and these clubs can come on board anytime between March 1 and the end of June,” says Bill Keller, producer of the Talent Quest championships.

Greene Streets, which started the preliminary rounds last week, is hosting the local rounds through July. That means singers in Augusta have an extra-long time to take the plunge and participate.

“We usually start ours early to give more people a chance to compete,” Meeks says. “We like to give as many people an opportunity to compete as we can.”

The contest is open to anyone, so you don’t have to be a karaoke regular to participate.

“We do have some regulars that compete and try to get a lot more people from outside to come in and compete,” says Meeks. “A lot of singers that have never been in before.”

Though Keller says the popularity of karaoke has declined a bit in recent years in the bar scene, interest in the pastime has increased again with the surge in reality television programming that turns

“(People) slight karaoke. They say karaoke’s just for drunks and wannabes, but when these singers sing, such as on ‘American Idol,’ they’re actually singing karaoke.”

- Bill Keller of Talent Quest

the spotlight on the shower-singing set.

“It’s starting to pick back up. Things like ‘Star Search’ and ‘American Idol’ are reviving (interest in karaoke),” he says. “It really has not been unpopularized except in the bar scene. … A lot of people buy the equipment and they have parties at home.”

A contest like Talent Quest – and the concept of karaoke in general – give talented singers who would otherwise go unnoticed an outlet to perform. “(The contest) gives a lot of singers that would otherwise not have a chance to possibly get something out of it, like a recording contract,” says Meeks. “We’ve had some really good singers come in and just be amazed at what’s out there.

It’s the ones that say, ‘I can’t sing’ and they get up and sing and, well yeah, you can. You’re a lot better than you thought

you were.”

“One of the most stressing things for people to do is either speak or sing in public,” Keller says. “A lot of people sign up that have been doing this at home and have had family support. They get this backing and all the sudden their confidence starts to build. There are a lot of beautiful singers in this world. Karaoke gives them that chance, that venue.”

On Talent Quest’s Web site, www.talentqst.com, the list of prizes for national winners includes cash, trophies and a celebrity-autographed jacket. Prizes that Talent Quest is working toward securing include recording contracts and national television appearances.

“Our second place female winner last year, a lady from Syracuse, New York, she went all the way on to the semifinals of ‘American Idol,’” says Keller.

“(People) slight karaoke. They say karaoke’s just for drunks and wannabes, but when these singers sing, such as on ‘American Idol,’ they’re actually singing karaoke. They have backup tracks; there’s no band playing for them.”

Following the preliminary rounds, winners move on to regional contests held in July and August.

“Those winners go directly to the national contest and their way is paid,” Keller says.

At the national level, competitors are judged on their singing ability, their stage presence and presentation. The nine judges at the national contest, held in Laughlin, Nev., include celebrity judges and music industry experts.

“Greene Streets, for the past two years, has had contestants come to the national contest,” says Keller. “(Greene Streets owner Maxine Larsley) brings an entourage of people with her. They have a pretty good time.”

“We had a duet that finished fifth overall in the duets competition,” Meeks says, referring to Joe George and Jason Kirkman of Martinez, who participated in the contest at the national level last year.

“People who end up at the national level are extremely talented people,” says Keller. “Some of the contestants come dressed to the nines and put on a tremendous act along with their singing. It’s quite entertaining.”

So even if you’re not the type to get up there and do your thing, you can still be in on the fun and drop by Greene Streets to see how the preliminary round of the contest is going.

“We have a lot of people that come in that don’t sing,” says Meeks. “They just sit and they listen to the other singers, bring friends and family to come in, listen to some good singers or even compete.

“Do you have a chance? You never know. Everybody has a chance, that’s the way I look at it.”

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8

Days A Week

Arts

Auditions

AUGUSTA CHILDREN’S CHORALE AUDITIONS for training and per formance choirs open to children in grades 3-8.

Auditions held Feb. 22, March 1 and May 3. Call 826-4718 to schedule an audition appointment.

“GUYS AND DOLLS” AUDITIONS held Feb. 15, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 7-10 p.m. at 1001 Walton Way. Par ts are available for 20 men and 10 women ages 18 and up. Please have a prepared solo from the show; accompanist will be provided.

For more information, call the Augusta Players at 826-4707.

AUGUSTA CONCERT BAND rehearses Monday evenings and is looking to fill vacancies on most band instruments.

Interested par ties should contact Ben Easter, (803) 2020091 or e-mail bandforaugusta@aol.com.

SWEET ADELINES PEACH STATE CHORUS OPEN REHEARSAL for singers each Thursday at 7 p.m. Held at 600 Mar tintown Road in Nor th Augusta. Contact Mildred Blain at 736-7740 or Mary Norman at (803) 279-6499.

Education

Exhibitions

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART EXHIBIT AT THE AIKEN THOROUGHBRED RACING HALL OF FAME: exhibit per tains to the Dogwood Stable and runs through Feb. 23. For more information, call (803) 642-7650.

FEBRUARY EXHIBITS AT USC-AIKEN’S ETHERREDGE CENTER feature an exhibit of paintings by Del Holt in the Upper Gallery through Feb. 27 and an exhibit of ceramics by Priscilla Hollingswor th in the Lower Gallery through Feb. 24.

The paintings of Julie Adams will be on display Feb. 24-March 1. Free and open to the public. For info, call (803) 641-3305.

POTTERY BY ERIC NYGAARD will be on display throughout February at the Euchee Creek Library. Call 556-0594.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM BLAYLOCK is on display at the Gibbs Library during the month of February. 863-1946.

THE AIKEN CENTER FOR THE ARTS exhibits works by Patricia Viles in the Westinghouse Group Gallery, Marita Rappleye in the Wyat t Development Gallery and Mary Jane Davis and Betsy Wilson-Mahoney in the Founder’s Gallery.

The opening for these exhibitions is Feb. 13, 6-8 p.m., and it’s free and open to the public. For information, visit www.AikenCenter for theAr ts.org or call (803) 641-9094.

“EXCITING PAINTINGS FROM PHOTOS” adult ar t workshop Feb. 22, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t. For more information, call 722-5495.

FINE ARTS EXHIBITION BY DOROTHY WRIGHT through Feb. 27 at the Lucy Craf t Laney Museum of Black History.

Call 724-3576 for more information.

THE GERTRUDE HERBERT INSTITUTE OF ART is accepting applications for tuition assistance for the spring quar ter now through March 11. The institute’s spring quar ter runs March 18-May 22. To apply, call 722-5495 or e-mail ghia@ghia.org to request a scholarship application form.

“THIRTY YEARS OF ROCK AND ROLL: PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY HULST” showcases images of such influential musicians as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Iggy Pop and more through the eyes of photographer Larry Hulst. The exhibit is at the Augusta Museum of History and runs through March 8.

“Legends” concert featuring a Beatles tribute band wraps things up March 8 at the Imperial Theatre. For information, call 7228454.

ART CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS are offered year-round at the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t. Classes and workshops are open to toddlers through adults and feature instruction in drawing, painting, photography, pot tery, weaving and sculpture. For a newslet ter or detailed information on registering for classes at the Ger trude Herber t, call 7225495. The Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t also offers Educational Tours; for information, contact the Education Director at the above telephone number.

ART CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS at the Ar t Factory. Classes in visual ar ts, dance and drama are offered. The Ar t Factory also has a homeschool program and scholarships are available. 731-0008.

CERAMICS CLASSES at the Weeks Center Ceramics House in Aiken. Fees include one class per week and students can choose any class time: Mondays, 9 a.m. to noon or 6-9 p.m.; Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m.; or Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to noon. $30 per month. Call (803) 642-7631 for info.

USC-AIKEN MUSIC CONSERVATORY PROGRAM now open.

Students of all ages and experience levels welcome. Private lessons available for musical instruments and voice; instructors are USC-Aiken faculty and have at least a master’s degree in their per formance area. (803) 641-3288.

“RECENT ACQUISITIONS: 2002” features works by John Baeder, Herb Jackson, Philip Morsberger, Tom Nakashima, Margaret Ramsey, Lorenso Scot t, Juanita Rogers, Purvis Young, Eleanor Hancock Pryor and Gilber t Gaul. The exhibit will be on display at the Morris Museum of Ar t through Feb. 23. Call 724-7501 for more information.

“THE DOGGY IN THE WINDOW” animal photography exhibition by Ginny Southwor th will be at the Aiken County Historical Museum now through Feb. 23. There is no admission charge. Call (803) 642-2015.

MARTHA SIMKINS SPECIAL EXHIBITION at the Morris Museum of Ar t through April 20. Call the museum at 7247501 for more information.

Comedian James Gregory comes to the Imperial Theatre Feb. 21. exhibit will be on display at the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t through March 14. Call 722-5495 for more information.

Sassy Brass. Dress is formal/semi-formal. Tickets are $12 for members, $15 for non-members. Call 736-8004.

THE ARTWORK OF NANCY BANNISTER is on display at the Raging Bull, 828 Broad St., through the end of February.

Bannister specializes in landscape and abstract ar t, as well as interior/ex terior murals. Call 722-0444 for more information.

SWEETHEART BALL 2003 at For t Gordon’s Gordon Club 6:30 p.m. Feb. 14. Tickets are $25 for civilians. Call 7914140.

DANIEL HAYES exhibits at the Cafe Du Teau through Feb. 18, 733-3505; at P.J.’s Coffee and Tea Cafe, 736-6889; and the Pizza Joint, 774-0037.

AT THE GERTRUDE HERBERT INSTITUTE OF ART: “Ware’s Folly: An Architectural Perspective” is in the First-Floor Gallery at Ware’s Folly through Feb. 21; “Creative Expression” is in the Ware’s Folly First Floor Gallery through Feb. 21; “Ar tist-in-Residence: Craig-Houghton Elementary School Students Create” on display through Feb. 14; “Recent Works From Youth and Adult Students of the Ger trude Herber t” on display Feb. 25-March 31. Call 7225495 for more information.

Dance

AT THE MARY PAULINE GALLERY: Philip Morsberger and Dederick Ward exhibit through Feb. 22. Rober t Bazemore and Ar t Rosenbaum exhibit Feb. 28-April 19. Opening reception 5-8 p.m. Feb. 28. Call the Mary Pauline Gallery for details at 724-9542.

VALENTINE DISCO for teens ages 12-18 at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center in Aiken, Feb. 14, 7-10 p.m. All students must show a valid school I.D. at the door. $3 per person.

Call (803) 642-7635 for information.

“COLLAGE WORKS: MELINDA MOORE LAMPKIN AND LUCY WEIGLE” features pieces by two local ar tists. The

CHRISTIAN SINGLES ORGANIZATION SILVER 25TH ANNIVERSARY BALL Feb. 15 at Post No. 63 on Milledge Road. Enter tainment provided by the Funtime Band with

“ROMEO AND JULIET,” presented by the Augusta Ballet, will be at the Washington Center for the Per forming Ar ts in Aiken Feb. 14-15. Tickets are $20-$30. To purchase tickets call 261-0555.

SECOND SATURDAY DANCE at the Ballroom Dance Center, 225 Grand Slam Drive in Evans, held the second Saturday of every month, 7:30-11 p.m. Dress is casual. Tickets are $10 per person. 854-8888.

AUGUSTA CHAPTER OF THE UNITED STATES AMATEUR BALLROOM DANCERS ASSOCIATION holds a dance the first Saturday of each month, from 7:15 to 11 p.m. Cost is $7 for members and $10 for non-members. Held at the BPOE Facility on Elkdom Cour t. Contact Melvis Lovet t, 733-3890, or Jean Avery, 863-4186, for information.

BALLROOM DANCE CLASSES March 11-April 22 at the H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken. Cost is $40 per couple and registration is accepted in pairs only. Call (803) 642-7631 for registration information.

SQUARE DANCE CLASSES: Intermediate classes run April 14-June 16. Call (803) 642-7631 for more information.

CSRA/AUGUSTA BOGEY-WOOGIE DANCE AND SOCIAL

GROUP holds a monthly dance every third Saturday of the month, star ting at 7:30 p.m. There are also meetings every Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Salsa Ruedo Casino and every Wednesday at 7:45 p.m. Men are especially encouraged to at tend. For information, phone 650-2396 or 736-3878.

SINGLES DANCE each Saturday night from 8-11 p.m. sponsored by the Christian Social Organization for Single Adults.

Held at Westside High School. Tickets $5 for members, $7 for non-members, and are available at the door. For more information, contact Doris Heath, 736-3376.

Music

MASTERS OF SWING JAZZ AT THE JULIAN CONCERT with the Augusta Jazz Project Feb. 28, 8 p.m., at the Julian Smith Casino. Tickets are $15 general admission, $5 student or $10 each for groups of 10 or more. For tickets, call 8230620.

SOUTHERN SOUL FESTIVAL with Bobby Womack, The Manhat tans, Tyrone Davis, Bet ty Wright and Charles Jones Feb. 21, 8 p.m., at the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center. Tickets are $33.50 in advance or $35.50 the day of the show. Order tickets by phone at 828-7700 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC FESTIVAL at Davidson Fine Ar ts School’s Amphitheatre Feb. 28, 4 p.m. For information, call 823-6924, ex t. 107.

“TWO PIANOS” CONCERT WITH MARTIN DAVID JONES AND CLARA PARK: Feb. 22 Augusta Symphony Masterworks program begins at 8 p.m.; preview begins at 7 p.m. Held at Augusta State University’s Performing Ar ts Theatre. Tickets are $15-$35; student tickets are $7.50-$14.

Call 826-4705.

WYCLIFFE GORDON per forms Feb. 14, 7 p.m., at Broadway Baptist Church. For more information, contact Henry Johnson, 790-8185, ex t. 28.

BASSIST GERALD VEASLEY brings funk and fun to a Valentine’s Day concer t Feb. 14 at the Imperial Theatre. The per formance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25.50-$28.50 and are available at the Imperial Theatre Box Office or online at www.tixonline.com. For information, call 722-8293.

THE HUNGARIAN NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA per forms 8 p.m. Feb. 14 at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center as par t of the University’s Cultural Series. Tickets range

from $30-$40 per person. For ticket reservations, call (803) 641-3305.

DAVIDSON FINE ARTS SCHOOL BAND PRE-FESTIVAL CONCERT 7 p.m. Feb. 18 in Davidson’s Beverly J. Barnhar t Theater. Tickets are $3 adult, $2 for senior citizens and children under 5 and $1 for Davidson students. For information, call 823-6924, ex t. 111.

TUESDAY’S MUSIC LIVE CONCERT SERIES: All per formances in the concer t series held at noon at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Concer ts are free; optional catered lunch is $7 per person. 2002-2003 season schedule is as follows: Feb. 18, Cowboy Envy; March 4, The Augusta Children’s Chorale; March 18, Kari Gaffney and Jeff Williams. 7223463.

COMMUNITY HEALING MEDITATION DRUMMING CIRCLE hosted every third Monday of the month by IDRUM2U, the Not Gaddy Drumming Studio. Held 7-9 p.m. at the G.L. Jackson Conference Center, 1714 Nor th Leg Cour t. Fee is $5 or a donation of canned goods for the Golden Harvest Food Bank. All are welcome and drums will be available to rent. For info, phone the Not Gaddy Drumming Studio, 2283200.

Theater

“AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’” will be at the Newberry Opera House March 12. Aiken Parks and Recreation hosts a bus trip to see the show that leaves the H.O. Weeks Center at 1 p.m. and includes dinner. Register by Feb. 24 by calling (803) 642-7631.

COMEDIAN JAMES GREGORY comes to the Imperial Theatre Feb. 21. For tickets and information, visit www.imperialtheatre.com or call the Imperial Theatre box office at 722-8341.

“A FLEA IN HER EAR” at the Aiken Community Playhouse’s Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Performances are Feb. 28, March 1, 7-9 and 14-15. Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees take place at 3 p.m. For tickets, call (803) 648-1438.

“ANNIE” will be per formed at 8 p.m. Feb. 28-March 1 and 3 p.m. March 2 at the Imperial Theatre. Tickets are $12-$35 and may be purchased from the Augusta Players online at www.augustaplayers.com or by phone at 826-4707.

“A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM” will be presented by

Augusta Theatre Company Feb. 14-16, 20-22, 27-28 and March 1 at the Bon Air Ballroom. Tickets are $15 adult, $10 seniors, students and matinees. Feb. 14 per formance is $35 and features a romantic dinner buffet. For tickets, call 4819040.

$3.50 for children (4 to 12); free for children 3 and under. 29 Sundays are two for one with a Super Sunday coupon.

Annual garden memberships are available. Call 724-4443 or M 1-888-874-4443. Also, visit their Web site at E www.gghf.org.

T

“THE LARAMIE PROJECT” Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 16, 3 and 8 p.m. at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for senior citizens and $5 for students.

There will also be a discussion session with the cast and crew immediately following the Feb. 15 per formance. Call (803) 641-3305 for details.

NATIONAL SCIENCE CENTER’S FORT DISCOVERY: Children and adults alike can immerse themselves in the wonders of science through live demonstrations, vir tual realities, Starlab, KidScape and more than 250 hands-on exhibits.

General Admission: $8 for adults; $6 for children, seniors and active military. Group rates available. Half-price admission daily af ter 3 p.m. Operating hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Call 821-0200, 1-800-325-5445 or visit their Web site at www.NationalScienceCenter.org.

“WHEN THE REAPER CALLS” Feb. 14-15, 21-22, 27-28 and March 1 at For t Gordon Dinner Theatre. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the show star ts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30 for the general public, $28 for seniors (65 and up) and civilian personnel, $17 for active duty E7 and below and $10 show only tickets. Valentine’s Day package available for the same cost as a regular full-price ticket. Call 793-8552 for reservations.

“THE SOUND OF MUSIC” comes to the Abbeville Opera House Feb. 14-15. Matinee per formance Feb. 15. Call (864) 459-2157 for ticket information.

“LES MISERABLES” through Feb. 16 at the Bell Auditorium.

Call TicketMaster at 828-7700 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

Attractions THE BOYHOOD HOME OF WOODROW WILSON: Circa 1859 Presbyterian manse occupied by the family of President Woodrow Wilson as a child during the Civil War and Reconstruction. Original and period antiques, restored house, kitchen and carriage house. 419 Seventh Street. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tues.-Sat. Tours available; groups of 10 or more by appointment only. Admission is $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students under 18 and free for ages five and under. 722-9828.

AUGUSTA GOLF & GARDENS OF THE GEORGIA GOLF HALL OF FAME features beautiful display gardens, as well as bronze sculptures of some of golf’s greatest masters.

Available for rent for a variety of functions. Group discount rates available. Closed Mondays; open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tues.-Sat.; open from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $5.50 for adults; $4.50 for students, seniors and military;

REDCLIFFE STATE HISTORIC SITE: 1859 mansion of S.C. Governor James Henry Hammond, held by the family for three generations until 1975. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday-Monday on the grounds. House tours are noon-3 p.m. by appointment. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

Admission to the grounds is free. Fee for house tours is $3 for adults and children ages 6 to 17. For more information, call (803) 827-1473. 181 Redcliffe Road, Beech Island.

SACRED HEART CULTURAL CENTER is offering tours of its 100-year-old building. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $1 per person, children free. 826-4700.

HISTORIC COTTON EXCHANGE WELCOME CENTER: Open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun. 1-5 p.m. Riverwalk. Free. 7244067.

THE EZEKIEL HARRIS HOUSE: Deemed “the finest 18th century house surviving in Georgia” by the “Smithsonian Guide to Historic America.” Open Saturday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. General admission is $2; senior admission is $1 and children get in for 50 cents. For more information, call 724-0436.

Museums

“PIECES OF ART: AN EVENING OF CHAIR-ITY” Feb. 27, 6 p.m., at the Morris Museum of Ar t. Butler Comprehensive High School ar t teacher Lorenzo Williams and his ar t students auction painted masterpieces on wooden stools to raise funds for the classroom. Live music provided by the Butler Jazz Band and Chorus. Free. 724-7501.

MASTERWORKS OF SOUTHERN ART TOUR at the Morris Museum of Art 2 p.m. Feb. 23. Free admission. Call 724-7501.

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BRANUM’S SEWING & VACUUM Presents SOUTHERN SEWING SCHOOL Coming to Augusta March 20,21,22 The Southern Sewing School is a three day, hands-on sewing school. Students will have the opportunity to make three beautiful projects, theirs to keep, and attend educational seminars given by nationally known instructors. This event is being sponsored by Branum’s, Hancock Fabrics and The Singer Sewing Machine Co. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from some of the best instructors in the sewing industry. This three day sewing school is one of the best values available.

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“GONE WITH THE WIND” THEMED TOUR of the Morris Museum of Art Feb. 16, 2 p.m. Free admission. 724-7501.

and open to the public. For more information, call (803) 641-3305.

NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK at For t Discover y Feb. 17-23. Learn how engineers turn ideas into realit y. Call 821-0200.

AUGUSTA GOLF AND GARDENS SEMINAR SERIES ARBOR DAY PRESENTATION 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 21. Bring a bag lunch to the gardens for a presentation on trees in celebration of Arbor Day. Admission is $1. For information, call 724-4443.

“AN OPEN MIC NIGHT AT JAVA CAFE” will be held at the Morris Museum of Ar t Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m. The museum’s Teen Advisory Council sponsors the event, which includes live music, a teen ar t show and coffeehouse specialties for teen-agers. 724-7501.

“CONVERSATIONS WITH THE ARTISTS: EUGENIA COMER AND JANANN REYNOLDS LOOK AT THE WORK OF MARTHA SIMKINS” program Feb. 20 at the Morris Museum of Ar t. Wine and cheese reception to follow. The program begins at 7 p.m., and reservations are required. Free for members, $3 for adults and $2 for seniors, students and military personnel. 724-7501.

AT THE AUGUSTA MUSEUM OF HISTORY: February’s film is “The Morehouse Men.” Films play continuously in the History Theatre and are free with admission. For more information, call 722-8454.

THE GERTRUDE HERBERT INSTITUTE OF ART in Ware’s Folly exhibits works by local and regional ar tists. Ar t classes, workshops and other educational programming for children, youth and adults are held in the Walker-Mackenzie Studio.

Ware’s Folly galleries open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Saturday by appointment only. The Walker-Mackenzie Studio gallery is open Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free, but a donation of $2 for adults and $1 for children and seniors is encouraged. Call 722-5495 for more info.

THE AUGUSTA MUSEUM OF HISTORY hosts permanent exhibition “Augusta’s Story,” an award-winning exhibit encompassing 12,000 years of local history. For the younger crowd, there’s the Susan L. Still Children’s Discovery Gallery, where kids can learn about history in a hands-on environment. The museum also shows films in the History Theatre and hosts a variety of programs. Located at 560 Reynolds Street. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Admission is $4 adult, $3 seniors, $2 kids (6-18 years of age) and free for children under 6. Free admission on Sundays. Call 722-8454 or visit www.augustamuseum.org for more information.

THE MORRIS MUSEUM OF ART hosts exhibitions and special events year-round. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, noon-5 p.m. Closed on Mondays and major holidays. 1 Tenth Street, Augusta. Call 724-7501 or visit www.themorris.org for details.

THE MUSEUM OF LAUREL AND HARDY OF HARLEM, GEORGIA features displays of various Laurel and Hardy memorabilia; films also shown. Located at 250 N. Louisville Street in downtown Harlem. Open 1-4 p.m. ThursdayMonday. For more information, call 556-3448.

LUNCH AT NOON LECTURE SERIES held the second Wednesday of every month at the Lucy Craf t Laney Museum of Black History, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call the museum at 724-3576 for more information.

Special Events AUGUSTA METRO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENTS: Women in Business seminar on retirement planning, 11:30 a.m. Feb. 18 at Pulllman Hall; Business at Breakfast meeting on ar ts in Augusta, 7:30 a.m. Feb. 19 at Piccadilly Cafeteria; Business Af ter Hours, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 20 at AugustaRichmond County Civic Center. $12 per event pre-registration by Feb. 14 or $15 at the door; Business Af ter Hours is $10 at the door only. For information, call 821-1300.

BATTLE OF AIKEN RE-ENACTMENT Feb. 21-23 at the Carolina Star Plantation. Advance tickets are $3 for students and $7 for adults; at the gate, tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults. For more information, visit www.bat tleofaiken.org.

“WAR AND PEACE: THE APPROACHES OF NOBEL PEACE PRIZE-WINNING PRESIDENTS,” the 10th Annual Woodrow Wilson Symposium, to be held Feb. 27-28. Meet the Speakers event held 6-8 p.m. Feb. 27; tickets are $15.

Symposium Sessions held 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Feb. 28 at ASU; free and open to the public. Symposium Luncheon 12:15 p.m. Feb. 28; $15 for the public and $10 for Friends of Woodrow Wilson members. For more information, call 722-9828.

AUTHOR CATHY SMITH BOWERS comes to USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center Feb. 25, 8 p.m., as par t of the James and Mary Oswald Distinguished Writers Series. Program is free

“AROUND THE DAY IN 80 WORLDS” FOREIGN FILM FESTIVAL continues at USC-Aiken Feb. 25 and 28 with a 6 p.m. showing of “Monsoon Wedding.” For more information, call (803) 641-3448.

HAT FASHION SHOW, DEMONSTRATION AND SOCIAL featuring Sissy Brodie, at the Augusta Newcomers Club Feb. 20 meeting. Coffee and tea social begins at 9:45 a.m., with the fashion show at 10:45 and a buffet lunch. Held at The Clubhouse on Washington Road. Contact Linda Guy, 8555898, for information.

SACRED HEART CULTUR AL CENTER DINNER AT ASTI’S Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Sacred Hear t Cultural Center, recreates the Asti’s restaurant in New York. Authentic Italian dinner to be ser ved, and members of the Augusta Collegium Musicum per form, along with singing waiters. Tickets are $100 per person, and corporate tables are available. Call 826-4700 by Feb. 13 to make reser vations.

FILM SERIES at Headquar ters Library every Tuesday night in February. Films star t at 6:30 p.m. and admission is free.

Feb. 18 showing of “Felicia’s Journey”; Feb. 25 showing of “Slaughterhouse 5.” 821-2600.

AUTHOR JANISSE RAY will be featured at the annual meeting of the Friends of the Augusta Library Feb. 18, 7 p.m., at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Free and open to the public.

Call Headquar ters Library at 821-2600 for details.

2003 CULLUM LECTURE SERIES at Augusta State University: The title of this year’s series is “Frontiers in Motion: U.S.-Latin American and Caribbean Borderlands.”

Ar tist and writer Malaika Favorite presents “Mexican and Caribbean Influences on African-American Ar t” at 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 18 in Butler Lecture Hall. Reception to follow the evening presentation; Favorite’s ar twork will be on display in the Reese Library through March 11. On Feb. 25, Quintard Taylor speaks about “Blacks on the Border: The African-American Experience in the West” at 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. in Butler Lecture Hall. Admission to all Cullum events is free. For more information, visit www.aug.edu/library/cullum2003.

MCDUFFIE FRIENDS OF ANIMALS holds pet adoptions each Saturday, 1-3 p.m. at Superpetz on Bobby Jones Expressway. Call 556-9090 or visit www.pet finder.com.

COLUMBIA COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY holds pet adoptions every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and every Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. at PetsMar t. For more info, call 860-5020.

RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL AND AUGUSTA ANIMAL RESCUE FRIENDS holds pet adoptions at Superpetz off Bobby Jones Expressway every Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.

Call AARF at 364-4747 or visit www.aarf.net. Adoptions also held at the Richmond County Animal Control Shelter, Tues. through Sun., 1-5 p.m. Call the shelter at 790-6836.

LOW-COST RABIES VACCINATIONS: Augusta-Richmond County Animal Control holds low-cost rabies vaccination clinics the four th Sunday of every month for privately owned pets. $8 per animal. 1 p.m. at Superpetz. Dogs must be on a leash and cats in a carrier. Puppies and kit tens must be three months old and current for all vaccinations. Schedule subject to change, so please call 790-6836 to verify dates and times.

THE CSRA HUMANE SOCIETY holds pet adoptions every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and every Wednesday evening from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Pet Center located behind the GreenJackets Stadium on Milledge Rd. 261-PETS.

Out of Town

“PORGY AND BESS” will be presented Feb. 28, 8 p.m. in the Johnny Mercer Theatre inside the Savannah Civic Center.

Pre-concer t talk is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. The event kicks off the Savannah Music Festival. (912) 236-FEST. “STOP KISS” will be per formed at the Longstreet Theatre in Columbia, S.C., Feb. 28-March 8. Call (803) 777-2551.

GEORGIA LAWYERS FOR THE ARTS FEBRUARY WORKSHOPS: “Collecting Photography 101” Feb. 13; “How To Star t a 501(c)(3)” Feb. 18; “Legal Issues for the Visual Ar tist” Feb. 18; “Dealing With Galleries: What You Need To Know” Feb. 19. All workshops held in Atlanta. For information, call (404) 873-3911 or e-mail gla@glar ts.org.

SOUTHERN SPRING SHOW at the Charlot te Merchandise Mar t in Charlot te, N.C., Feb. 22-March 2. Admission is $9 at the door and $7 in advance for adults; kids 12 and under free with an adult. For information, visit www.southernspringshow.com or call 1-800-949-0248.

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underway. For course information or to request a catalog, call 737-1636 or log on to www.ced.aug.edu.

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M E through March 22. For information, call (912) 234-2777.

T R ERIC CARLE BOOK SIGNING AND MERMAID THEATRE O PERFORMANCE OF “THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR”

BRIDGE CLASSES at the H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken.

Intermediate class is held March 25-May 20. Cost is $20 per person, plus a $14 materials fee that must be paid at the first class. Call (803) 642-7631 for information.

S P I R I T

USC-AIKEN CONTINUING EDUCATION offers the following courses: Conversational French, Spanish for the Beginner Par t 2, Spanish for the Medical Field, Computer Courses, Financial Strategies, Yoga and more. Call the Office of Continuing Education at (803) 641-3288.

AND “THE VERY QUIET CRICKET” Feb. 15 at the Richland County Public Library and Richland Nor theast High School in Columbia, S.C. Call (803) 929-3475 for details.

2003 SAVANNAH IRISH FESTIVAL Feb. 14-16 at the Savannah Civic Center. For information, call (912) 231-8499 or visit www.SavannahIrish.org.

F E B “ROMEO AND JULIET” at the New American Shakespeare

AUGUSTA STATE UNIVERSITY CONTINUING EDUCATION is now offering the following classes: Microsof t Access, Advanced Medical Coding, Stained Glass, SAT Review Courses, Beginning Photography, Intermediate Shag, West African Culture and Dance and more. Also, ASU offers online courses. For more information, call 737-1636 or visit www.ced.aug.edu.

Tavern in Atlanta through March 2. Tues.-Sat. per formances

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“RHINOCEROS” will be presented by the University of South Carolina’s Theatre Depar tment through Feb. 16 at Drayton Hall in Columbia, S.C. Per formances are Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m. and Sunday, 3 p.m. Tickets are $12 general admission, $10 USC faculty and staff, senior citizens and the military and $9 for students. Group tickets are $7 for par ties of 10 or more. Purchase tickets by calling (803) 777-2551.

“PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY JAM” at noon daily through Feb. 14 at the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in Macon, Ga. Admission to each concer t is one canned good to benefit the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank. 1-888-GA-ROCKS. “SAINT LUCY’S EYES” will be presented by the Alliance Theatre Company through March 9 at the Woodruff Ar ts Center in Atlanta. Tickets are $17-$46; call (404) 733-5000.

“WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE: MAURICE SENDAK IN HIS OWN WORDS AND PICTURES” exhibit at the Richland County Public Library in Columbia, S.C., through May 18.

(803) 799-9084.

“ROOM SERVICE” presented by Class Act Theatre in Mariet ta, Ga., through March 3. Tickets are $15 adult, $13 senior and $12 children. Call (770) 579-3156.

“A VOICE OF THEIR OWN: BLACK CLASSICAL MUSIC IN GEORGIA” EXHIBIT through May 26 at the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in Macon, Ga. Call 1-888-GA-ROCKS. “SHAKESPEARE’S R&J” will be presented on the Her tz Stage in Atlanta by the Alliance Theatre Company through March 2. Tickets are $25-$31, with discount rates for groups of 10 or more, and are available by calling (404) 733-5000 or online at www.alliancetheatre.org.

THE HIGH MUSEUM OF ART’S FOLK ART AND PHOTOGRAPH GALLERIES host two exhibitions through Aug. 9: “Land of Myth and Memory: Clarence John Laughlin and Photographers of the South” and “Faces and Places: Picturing the Self in Self-Taught Ar t.” Call (404) 577-6940.

AT THE GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART in Athens, Ga., through March 23: “There Is No Eye: Photographs by John Cohen” and “Visualizing the Blues: Images of the American South, 1862-1999.” Call (706) 542-4662 for information.

AT THE GEORGIA NATIONAL FAIRGROUNDS AND AGRICENTER in Perry, Ga.: Tickets are now on sale for the Georgia National Rodeo, Feb. 20-22. Call (478) 987-3247 or 1-800-987-3247 for info.

“TWENTY YEARS AGO” will be presented by NarroWay Productions Winter Dinner Theatre in Myr tle Beach, S.C.,

The Feb. 18 meeting of the Friends of the Augusta Library features author Janisse Ray. Feb. 14-15. Tickets are $24.95 or $23.95 for groups and senior citizens. To make reservations, call (803) 802-2300 or 1-888-437-7473.

“FOR THIS WORLD AND BEYOND: AFRICAN ART FROM THE FRED AND RITA RICHMAN COLLECTION” through May 25 at the High Museum of Ar t in Atlanta. Call (404) 733HIGH or visit www.high.org for info.

TICKETS FOR “VAREK AI,” a production by the Cirque du Soleil, now on sale. Shows are March 6-30 at Cumberland Galleria in Atlanta. Visit www.cirquedusoleil.com for more information.

“DEFINING CRAFT I: COLLECTING FOR THE NEW MILLENNIUM” exhibit at the Columbia Museum of Ar t in Columbia, S.C., through Feb. 23. For more information, call the museum at (803) 799-2810 or visit www.columbiamuseum.org.

“PARIS IN THE AGE OF IMPRESSIONISM: MASTERWORKS FROM THE MUSEE D’ORSAY” will be at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta now through March 16. This exhibition marks the first time since the Orsay opened that pieces in its collection have traveled to the U.S. For more information, visit www.ParisinAtlanta.org, www.high.org, or call (404) 733HIGH.

Benefits WALTON FOUNDATION’S MARDI GRAS BENEFIT BASH March 1, 7:30 p.m. at the Old Medical College of Georgia, benefits the Walton Foundation for Independence. Live entertainment, Cajun cuisine, auction, ar tists and more will be featured. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased at Walton Rehabilitation Hospital, French Market Grille, D. Timm’s and the Par tridge Inn. For more information, call 823-8526 or visit www.wrh.org and click on news and events.

THE GARDEN CITY BARBERSHOP CHORUS is raising funds with singing Valentines. For $45, a quartet will visit that special someone with a two-song performance and a rose. To schedule, call (803) 557-4180 (daytime) or (803) 279-4198

AIKEN TECH CONTINUING EDUCATION will offer the following courses in January: Intro to Computers, Windows 2000 Basic Concepts, Health Care courses, Rape Aggression Defense, Beginning Cake Decorating, Professional Cooking, Real Estate courses and more. Aiken Tech also offers Education to Go classes online. For more information or to register, call (803) 593-9231, ex t. 1230.

Health

(evening).

AIKEN WOMEN’S HEART BOARD BENEFIT with “Viva Hear t Vegas” theme Feb. 20-23 at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center.

Call (803) 641-3305 for details.

AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL is in need of dog and cat food, cat litter and other pet items, as well as monetary donations to help pay for vaccinations. Donations accepted during regular business hours, Tues.-Sun., 1-5 p.m. at the shelter, 4164 Mack Lane. Call 790-6836 for information.

SHEPEARD COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER BLOOD DRIVES in various locations around the CSRA this month. The blood center is urging people of all blood types to donate in order to combat a blood supply shor tage. For detailed information on locations and times to donate, visit www.shepeardblood.org. You may also call Susan Edwards at (803) 6437996 for information on Aiken locations and Nancy Szocinski at 737-4551 for information on all other locations.

AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES at the Aiken Red Cross Blood Center on Millbrook Drive and the Augusta Red Cross Blood Center on Pleasant Home Road. The bloodmobile will also stop at various area locations this week. For a complete list, call the Aiken Blood Center at (803) 642-5180 or the Augusta Blood Center at 868-8800.

Learning “ANCESTORS: CLIMBING YOUR FAMILY TREE” continuing education class at the Augusta Museum of History Mondays March 3-31. Registration fee is $35 for non-members and $25 for members of the Augusta Museum of History or the Augusta Genealogical Society. To register, call 722-8454 by Feb. 28.

“DEFEATING SELF-DEFEATING THOUGHTS” free health education class at the Life Learning Center’s Uptown Division Feb. 28, 2:30 p.m. To enroll, call 733-0188, ex t.

7989.

EUROMED REHABILITATION CENTER SOUTHEAST CONFERENCE Feb. 22 at First Baptist Church in Swainsboro.

From 1-3 p.m., specialists from the Euromed Center in Poland will give a presentation on their program, specifically intended for rehabilitation of motor function in patients with cerebral palsy and other related muscle disorders. Following the presentation, from 3-7 p.m., an or thopedic surgeon from the program will be on hand to evaluate children who may benefit from Euromed treatment. For information, contact Debbie Canady, (912) 562-3102.

CPR AND FIRST AID TRAINING COURSES AT THE AUGUSTA RED CROSS: Adult CPR With First Aid Feb. 24-25, 6-9:30 p.m.; Adult, Infant and Child CPR With First Aid Feb. 18-19 or 25-27, 6-10:30 p.m. All classes held at the Augusta Red Cross office, 1322 Ellis St. To register, call 724-8483.

EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR AND PANEL DISCUSSION with Cathy Benedet to, five element acupuncturist; Cindy Foster, mind and body medicine specialist; and Ray Garrison, cer tified personal trainer. Held Feb. 13, 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Home Health in Daniel Village. Free and sponsored by the Optimal Wellness Network. For information, contact Gail Pendergrast, 651-9993, or Pat Hall, 667-8734.

DIET COUNSELING CLASSES for diabetics and those with high cholesterol at CSRA Par tners in Health, 1220 Augusta West Parkway. Free. Call 860-3001 for class schedule.

BASIC MICROSOFT WORD CLASS Feb. 18-March 18 or Feb. 20-March 20, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call the Wallace Branch Library at 722-6275 to register.

“PAIN TREATMENT PART 2: THE MAN APPROACH — MOVEMENT, AROMATHERAPY, NUTRACEUTICALS” free health education class at the Downtown Division of the Life Learning Center, Room 2D-114. Program begins at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 13. To enroll, call 733-0188, ex t. 7989.

REGISTRATION FOR WINTER 2003 CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES AT AUGUSTA STATE UNIVERSITY is now

PROJECT LINK COMMUNITY LECTURE SERIES is held the first Tuesday of every month and is sponsored by the MCG

Provide your children with the building blocks they need to cope with divorce.

February 17th16th - March 31st, (Sundays) February - March 30th2002 (Sundays) from from 4pm -4pm 6pm- 6pm Registration be held16th Feb.at17th at in3:30 in Walton 101 Registration will be heldwillFebruary 3:30pm the pm Walton Building, Room 101 for Freetotothe thepublic. public ForPre-school Pre-schoolChildren Childrenthrough throughGrades Grade 6 •• Free

731-5355 with with questions.

CallCall 731-5355 questions.

“Just For Kids” is held at First Baptist Church of Augusta 3500 Walton Way • Augusta 733-2236 • www.fbcaugusta.org

UNIVERSITY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM COMMUNITY EDUCATION holds workshops, seminars and classes on a variety of topics: weight and nutrition, women’s health, cancer, diabetes, seniors’ health and more. Suppor t groups and health screenings are also offered. Call 736-0847 for details.

PEACHCARE FOR KIDS AND RIGHT FROM THE START MEDICADE offers free or low-cost health coverage to qualifying families. Coverage includes prenatal care, hospitalization, vaccines, dental and vision care and is available to pregnant women of all ages and to children through age 19.

Contact the RSM Project at 729-2086 or 721-5611 for information.

YOGA CLASSES at Walton Rehabilitation Hospital are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7-8 a.m. for $45/month or 10:30 a.m. to noon for $55/month. Call 823-6294.

FREE HIV/AIDS TESTING every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Ministry, 922 Greene Street. Free anonymous testing, pre- and post-test counseling and education.

HATHA YOGA CLASSES at the St. Joseph Home Health Care Center in Daniel Village Plaza. Held 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. $10 per class or $60 a month for unlimited classes. Mats are provided, but bring a towel and a water bot tle. Call Tess at 738-2782 for more information.

A FREE WOMEN’S HEALTH CLINIC is held from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Salvation Army and Welfare Center, 1383 Greene St. Services include Pap smear, breast exam and the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmit ted diseases. For more info or an appointment, call the St. Vincent dePaul Health Center at 828-3444.

W.G. WATSON, M.D., WOMEN’S CENTER CONDUCTS EDUCATION CLASSES at University Hospital. Course topics include Lamaze, breast feeding, parenting and grandparenting. Par tners will learn positive suppor t techniques. There are also programs designed to help older siblings adjust to new family members. Some classes are free, while others require a fee. Registration is required by calling 774-2825.

SPECIAL STORYTIME WITH PUPPETS, STORIES, SONGS AND FINGERPLAYS Feb. 19, 10:30-11:15 a.m. and 3:304:15 p.m. at the Appleby Branch Library. Call 736-6244 for details.

“CREATIVE PUPPETRY!” FAMILY ART WORKSHOP at the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t Feb. 15. Children ages 511 will learn to make creative characters with a variety of materials; supplies included. Held 10 a.m.-noon. Call 7225495 or visit www.ghia.org for info.

VALENTINE’S NIGHT DIVE-IN MOVIE EVENT for kids ages 6-12 Feb. 14 at the Family Y’s Wheeler Branch indoor pool.

From 7-9:30 p.m., parents can enjoy a night out while their kids watch a family classic movie while floating or swimming in the heated pool. Fees are $3 for Metro Members, $4 for Branch Members, $5 for Bronze Members and $6 for non-members. Call 738-6678 for more details.

“SCHOOL’S OUT” PROGRAM Feb. 17 at the Family Y’s Wheeler Branch. Fees are $14 per child pre-registered or $20 per child registering the day of the program. Call 7387006.

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center in Aiken through May, 2-6 p.m. Open to kids ages 513. Call (803) 642-7635.

CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History open Monday-Friday, 4:30-6:30 p.m., through June. For information, call 724-3576.

ACADEMIC HELP AND TUTORING available Saturdays, 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Wallace Branch Library. Call 722-6275 to make arrangements.

GIRLS INCORPORATED AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM runs through the end of the 2002-2003 school year. A variety of programs will be offered. Services include van pick-up at select schools, evening drop-off, homework room and hot evening meal. Open to girls in kindergar ten through high school. Af ter-school program offered 2:30-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. For more information, call 733-2512.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT SKILLS PROGRAM for teens ages 12-19 held the third Saturday of the month at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. Call 724-3576.

WEEKLY STORY SESSIONS at all branch libraries. Visit www.ecgrl.public.lib.ga.us for more information.

SENIORNET provides adults age 50 and over education for and access to computer technology. Many different courses are offered. Contact the USC-Aiken Continuing Education Office at (803) 641-3563.

Sports KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS PATRICK WALSH COUNCIL BASKETBALL FREE THROW COMPETITION Feb. 15, 10 a.m., at St. Mary’s school gym. Open to children ages 10-14.

Registration is completed at the competition and there is no fee. Call 840-1208 for information.

HOMESCHOOL P.E. SESSION at the Family Y Thursdays, Feb. 27-March 27, 1-3 p.m. Session fees are $20 for the first child, $15 for the second child and $10 for the third and each subsequent child per family. For information, call 7331030.

IN-LINE HOCKEY CLINICS AND LEAGUE REGISTRATION: Inline hockey clinics sponsored by the Family Y held Feb. 22 and March 1 at the Abilene Baptist Church parking lot; registration for in-line hockey league and hockey school held Feb. 22-March 5 at the Family Y’s Marshall Branch. For information, call 364-FAMY.

SPRING SOFTBALL LEAGUES for men and women now forming at Citizens Park in Aiken. Open to adults 18 and older. Organizational meeting Feb. 18 at Citizens Park; fees and rosters due March 18; play begins April 21. Call (803) 642-7761 for information.

“PETER’S ADVENTURES” will be presented by Bret Hupp at the Gibbs Library Feb. 25, 4 p.m.

For information, call 863-1946.

Seniors

THE AUGUSTA RUGBY CLUB is always looking for new members. Teams available for women and men; no experience necessary. Practice is Tuesday and Thursday nights, 79 p.m. at Richmond Academy. For more information, call Don Zuehlke, 495-2043, or e-mail augustar fc@yahoo.com.

You may also visit www.augustarugby.org.

STORYTIME AND CRAFTS every Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m., at Zany Brainy. Open to kids 2-4 years old; parental supervision is required for the duration of the event. Call 736-6229 for details.

ATLANTA DOGWOOD FESTIVAL CALL FOR KIDS POSTER CONTEST through Feb. 14. The winning design will be chosen for the annual commemorative kids poster. For entry details, call (404) 329-0501.

“THE ENCHANTED WELL” is presented by Storyland Theatre.

School performances are Feb. 18-21, 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.; family matinee Feb. 22, 3 p.m. Student ticket prices are $3.50, with free admission for teachers and chaperones; reservations required. Family matinee tickets are $4 per person. Held at ASU’s Performing Ar ts Theatre.

Call 736-3455.

PHINIZY SWAMP NATURE PARK FAMILY DISCOVERY SERIES walk through the park, 5:30-7 p.m. Feb. 20. Bring a picnic dinner to the park’s Pharmacia Pavilion. 828-2109.

BASIC COMPUTER SKILLS FOR YOUNG MINDS at the Wallace Branch Library Feb. 18, 10-11 a.m. Open to children ages 3-5. Call 722-6275.

AIKEN PARKS AND RECREATION offers a multitude of programs for senior adults, including bridge clubs, fitness classes, canasta clubs, line dancing, racquetball, ar ts and craf ts, tai chi, tennis and excursions. For more information, call (803) 642-7631.

JUD C. HICKEY CENTER FOR ALZHEIMER’S CARE provides families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia a break during the day. Activities and care available at the adult day center, and homecare is available as well. For information, call 738-5039.

THE ACADEMY FOR LIFELONG LEARNING offers lectures, courses, field trips, discussion groups and community information seminars on a variety of topics to mature adults. For more information, contact the USC-Aiken Office of Continuing Education at (803) 641-3288.

PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS CAN EXERCISE (PACE) meets at Walton Rehabilitation Hospital Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-2 p.m. Call 823-5294.

THE SENIOR CITIZENS COUNCIL OF GREATER AUGUSTA AND THE CSRA offers a variety of classes, including aerobics, quilting, tai chi, Spanish, painting, line dancing, bowling, bridge, computers, yoga and pinochle. For dates and times, phone 826-4480.

ARTHRITIS AQUATICS offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Walton Rehabilitation Hospital. Classes meet 9-

BLACK HISTORY CELEBR ATION at the SmithHazel Recreation Center in Aiken Feb. 21-22.

Ar ts and craf ts, story telling, cooking, dancing, movies, historical plays and a fashion show will be featured. Free and open to all ages. Call (803) 642-7635.

BLACK HISTORY READING AND DRAMATIZATION by poet Beverly Allen Feb. 15, 4-5 p.m., at the Friedman Branch Library. An exhibit by Allen will be on display through Feb. 28. Call the library at 736-6758 for details.

FORT DISCOVERY HOMESCHOOL DAY Feb. 24, 1-5 p.m., for homeschool educators and students gives tips on how to use the science center as an effective tool for learning.

Tours, previews of For t Discovery programs, demonstrations, mini-workshop and a roundtable discussion are available. For more information, contact Chip Schuster, 8210206.

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY SEAT CHECKS available Feb. 15 as par t of National Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week. Safety seat check is 1-4 p.m. at GM/Pontiac Masters dealership on Washington Road. For information, contact Sylvia Thompson, 821-2350.

AFRICAN-AMERICAN FASHION PAR ADE Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m.-noon at the Senior Citizens Council of Greater Augusta and the CSRA. For more information, call 826-4480.

GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION AAA BASKETBALL SECTIONALS Feb. 27-March 1 at the ASU Athletic Complex.

Teams compete to advance to the state championships in Macon. Call the Greater Augusta Spor ts Council at 7228326 for more information.

Kids

AARP TAX ASSITANCE is available at the Gibbs Library Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., through April 8. Free; registration is not required. Please bring a copy of your previous year’s tax return. Call 863-1946 for more information. AARP Tax Aide is also available at the Senior Citizens Council of Greater Augusta and the CSRA Mondays, noon to 4 p.m. and Fridays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free; call 826-4480 for information.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH COMMAND PROGRAM at For t Gordon Feb. 24, 1:30 p.m. at Alexander Hall. Free and open to the public. For information, call 791-2014.

FAMILY BIKE TOUR OF PHINIZY SWAMP NATURE PARK Feb. 23, 3-4 p.m. Ten-mile bike tour is at a leisurely pace suitable for families. An adult must accompany those under 12 and helmets are required. Bring a picnic dinner to eat at the end of the tour. Contribution is $3 for members and $5 for non-members. Call 828-2109 by Feb. 20 to register.

WINTER AQUATICS SESSION II at the Family Y’s Wheeler Branch Indoor Aquatics Center runs Feb. 17-March 27.

Classes are offered for all ages and ability levels. Fees vary by type of class. For more details, call 738-6678.

“CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS” AUGUSTA SYMPHONY FAMILY CONCERT Feb. 23, 3 p.m., features pianists Mar tin David Jones and Clara Park. Pre-concer t activities begin at 2:15 p.m. Held at the Augusta State University Per forming Ar ts Theatre. Tickets are $6 each or $20 for a family of four.

Free for ASU and Paine College Students. For ticket info, call 826-4705.

Celebrate Black History Month

BLACK HISTORY MONTH ACTIVITIES AT FORT DISCOVERY in February: “African Skies” program in the StarLab Planetarium provides visitors the oppor tunity to see the constellations as interpreted through African legend and lore; “Black Scientists and Inventors” exhibit on the contributions and achievements of AfricanAmerican scientists and inventors. Call 8210224 for details.

FIRST SATURDAY STORYTELLING at the Lucy Craf t Laney Museum. In addition, there is a tour of the museum. Held 10 a.m. to noon the first Saturday of the month. Call 724-3576.

POETRY READINGS at the Senior Citizens Council of Greater Augusta and the CSRA Feb. 18, 20 and 21, 10:30-11 a.m.

Call 826-4480 for more information.

33

9:45 a.m., 10-10:45 a.m. or 12:15-1 p.m. $37.50/month. To register, call 733-5959.

CO-ED VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE begins at the H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken in the spring. Fees and rosters due Feb. 18, with play beginning March 17. Open to adults 18 and older.

Call (803) 643-4663 for more information.

TEN STAR ALL-STAR BASKETBALL CAMP is accepting applications for its summer programs through April. Boys and girls ages 10-19 are eligible. Call (704) 373-0873 for info.

UPCOMING AUGUSTA LYNX HOME GAMES: Feb. 14-15, 20, 22-23 and 28 and March 1, 14-15, 19, 21-22, 25, 28 and 30. For tickets, call the Lynx ticket office at 724-4423.

TICKETS NOW ON SALE for the Augusta GreenJackets 2003 season. Home games at Lake Olmstead Stadium. Tickets available at www.tixonline.com or by phone at (803) 2784TIX. There is also a TIX outlet inside Harmon Optical in Southgate Plaza.

YOUTH MONTHLY SPARRING the last Thursday of the month, 5:30 p.m., at the Augusta Boxing Club. Call 733-7533.

Volunteer

“WORKS ON PAPER BY AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARTISTS” will be on display at the Morris Museum of Ar t through March 2. For more information, call the museum at 724-7501.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH SECOND ANNUAL FILM FESTIVAL every Thursday in February at the MCG School of Dentistry. Screenings begin at 7 p.m. and are free and open to the public.

Schedule is as follows: Feb. 13, “The Black Press,” “Blacks & Jews”; Feb. 20, “Richard Wright,” “James Baldwin”; Feb. 27, “W.E.B. Dubois,” “American Civil Rights Movement.”

Sponsored by the Student National Dental Association at MCG. For information, call 7213587 or 627-3054.

“HISTORY OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT THROUGH EDUCATION” Historian Program at the Lucy Craf t Laney Museum of Black History Feb. 22, 5 p.m. Held in the museum’s Conference Center. Special guest speaker is Charles W. Walker. The public is invited, and college students and history professors are encouraged to at tend. Admission is $5. Please reserve your place by Feb. 18 by calling 724-3576.

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Voted Best Steak In Augusta For 15 Years 1987-2002

CUMBEE CENTER TO ASSIST ABUSED PERSONS holds volunteer training Feb. 24-March 13. Training is held Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6 p.m. in the center’s main office in Aiken. This non-profit organization provides free and confidential 24-hour services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. For information, call (803) 649-0480.

TYPE 2 DIABETES PREVENTION STUDY is looking for volunteers. Volunteers must be non-diabetic, at least 50 years old and have some of the common risk factors for developing diabetes: a family history of diabetes or early hear t dis-

2856 Washington Rd. 73-STEAK 1654 Gordon Hwy. 796-1875

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Children’s Medical Center. Project Link provides educational resources and guidance for families who have children with developmental delays, disabilities and other specialized health concerns. Free and open to the public; takes place from 6:30-8 p.m. in the main conference room at the Children’s Medical Center. Call 721-6838 for information.

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

34 M E T R O S P I R I T

DUI

Free Phone Call

F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

William Sussman

———ATTORNEY AT LAW ——— 347 Greene Street • Augusta, Georgia

(706) 724-3331

AUGUSTA

COMMISSIONER CALLS FOR

INVESTIGATION OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY DANNY CRAIG SEE PAGE 12

American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) Host Annual Spring Luncheon sponsored by MCG Health, Inc. presents Dr. Ron Eaker March 15, 2003 An informative, humorous and surprising look at the transitions in a woman’s life appropriate for woman from 18-80.

Location: First Baptist Church • Walton Way Ext. Augusta, Ga. Cost: $15 per person • Sr. Citizen Cost: $12 per person Dr. J. Ron Eaker is an author, President of Healing Tried Talks and local board certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist who will present Holy Hormones: Magic or Misery?

Doors open at 10 a.m. and consist of special promotions. 11:30 a.m. fashion show hosted by Dillards. 12:00 p.m. luncheon and featured speaker.

For tickets contact: Debra Basile at (706) 854-0407 Sandra Kelly (706) 738-9300 Sherri Daniel (706) 860-1307

Doug’s Meat Shop Backyard Special

$59

21 lbs.= $69

10 lbs. Ground Beef 10 lbs. Leg Quarters 5 lbs. Hot Dogs 4 lbs. L.J. Sausage 5 lbs. Pork Ribs 6 lbs. Pork Chops

5 lbs. Chuck Steak 3 lbs. Chuck Roast 5 lbs. Rib Steaks 8 lbs. Gound Beef

Easy Living Pack

$45

Pack 2

10 lbs. Wings 5 lbs. Pork Neck Bones 5 lbs. Hot Dogs 5 lbs. Whiting Fish 4 lbs. L.S. Sausage 2 lbs. Slab Bacon

Variety Pack

$129

15 lbs. Steak 6 lbs. Beef Roast 2 lbs. Bacon 3 lbs. Stew Meat 9 lbs. Cut-Up Fryers 5 lbs. Pork Chops 5 lbs. Ground Beef

3028 Deans Bridge Rd 793-6025 All Major Credit Cards Debit Cards • Food Stamps M-F 9-7 • Sat 9-6

ease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cigaret te smoking, overweight or previous stroke or hear t at tack. To learn more about the study, call 860-3001.

NATIONAL DONOR DAY largest one-day blood drive in the nation Feb. 14. The American Red Cross bloodmobile will be at the Saturn facility, 1770 Gordon Highway, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

For information, call Angela Hillesland, 731-9000, ex t. 340.

GERTRUDE HERBERT INSTITUTE OF ART DOCENT TR AINING PROGR AM: Volunteers will guide”If Walls Could Talk” tour, featuring the histor y and architecture of Ware’s Folly. Contact the Education Director at 722-5495 for more information.

THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT COALITION CAMPAIGN seeks volunteers to prepare basic ta x returns for low/limited income individuals, those with disabilities, non-English speakers and the elderly. Volunteers receive free training and instruction materials from the IRS. Call the Mayor’s Office for Workforce Development at 821-1834.

GOLDEN HARVEST FOOD BANK needs volunteers during the day, Monday-Friday, to help sor t donated products and assist in their agency shopping area. Help is needed yearround. If you are able to lift 25 pounds and would like to help fight hunger in the Augusta area, contact Laurie Roper at 736-1199, ex t. 208.

THOROUGHBRED R ACING HALL OF FAME DOCENTS NEEDED: Duties include opening and closing the Hall of Fame, greeting visitors and providing information about museum exhibits. Call Lisa Hall, (803) 642-7650 for information.

OLDER AMERICANS ACT SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM is looking for volunteers to serve meals to needy older residents. To volunteer, contact the Senior Citizens Council at 826-4480. For those in need of home-delivered meals, call 210-2018 or toll free at 1-888-922-4464.

AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL: New volunteer orientation is scheduled the first Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. at the shelter, 4164 Mack Lane. Schedule subject to change; call 790-6836 to verify dates and times.

THE CSRA HUMANE SOCIETY is looking for animal lovers willing to donate a lit tle of their time. Volunteers are needed every Saturday at the Pet Center located behind GreenJackets Stadium on Milledge Road. Call 261-PETS for more info.

SHEPEARD COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER is seeking donors to prevent a blood supply shor tage. To donate call 737-4551, 854-1880 or (803) 643-7996.

Meetings THE ASSOCIATION OF FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONALS holds its nex t luncheon Feb. 21, 11:30 a.m. at the Par tridge Inn. Program topic is “Media Suppor t for Non-Profit Organizations.” Luncheon cost is $13 for AFP members and $18 for non-members and reservations must be made by noon Feb. 19. To reserve a place, call Beth Jones, 7248481.

Bassist Gerald Veasley is in town for a special Valentine’s Day performance at the Imperial Theatre.

Monahan. For information, call 863-1946.

PARTNERS IN FRIENDSHIP ANNUAL MEETING Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m., at Malia’s restaurant in Aiken. The public is invited and encouraged to at tend to learn about Aiken’s par tnership with Orvieto, Italy and The Shoalhaven, Australia. Tickets are $25 per person and must be reserved by Feb. 14. For information, call (803) 642-6489 or (803) 649-2221.

Weekly

CHRIST-BASED RECOVERY MEETING ever y Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., at the Love & Light Healing Center. Please use the back entrance. For information, contact Kenny Stacy, 373-5585.

FREE ‘N’ ONE SUPPORT GROUP for those battling addiction to drugs and alcohol. Approach is a spiritual one. Held every Thursday night. For information, contact Sarah Barnes, 772-7325.

TOUGH LOVE SUPPORT GROUP Monday nights, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the South Augusta Resource Center. Learn how to understand addiction and how to exercise tough love with those you care about. Call Sarah Barnes, 772-7325, for info.

WALT DISNEY PIN TRADING GROUP is forming for all those interested in collecting and trading pins from Walt Disney World, Disneyland and other Disney resor ts. For more information, contact Tim Conway, 729-9900.

THE AUGUSTA SKI AND OUTING CLUB will hold a club social Feb. 18, 7 p.m. at U.B.’s Restaurant on Walton Way. For more information, call (803) 279-6186.

GEORGIA-CAROLINA TOASTMASTERS meets Wednesdays at noon at the Clubhouse, 2567 Washington Rd. $8 for lunch; visitors welcome. 860-9854.

THE SIERRA CLUB meets Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Church on Walton Way Ex t. Speaker Kate Smolski will show slides and discuss changes of national forest management plans for our area. For more information, call 863-2324.

SEXAHOLICS ANONYMOUS, a 12-step program of recovery from addiction to obsessive/compulsive sexual thoughts and behaviors, meets Wednesdays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays at 7 p.m. at Augusta Counselling Services. Call 339-1204 and leave first name and phone number; a confidential reply is assured.

THE BEECH ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY meets Feb. 18 at 144 Old Jackson Highway, Beech Island. Tom Rober tson will speak on his book of family history, “The Miller Family Let ters, 1837-1894.” Open to the public. For information, call Jackie Bar tley, (803) 827-0184 or (803) 867-3600.

THE AUGUSTA ROSE SOCIETY, an educational, nonprofit organization to promote the growing of roses in the CSRA, meets Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. in the Sister Mary Louise Conference Room of St. Joseph Hospital. Lonnie Christopher will present a program entitled “Pruning Roses for Optimal Growth.” (803) 279-5502.

SELF HELP FOR HARD OF HEARING PEOPLE GROUP OF AUGUSTA (SHHH) meets Feb. 17, 5:30 p.m. for refreshments and 6 p.m. for program on “Tips on How To Talk to Your Doctor.” Held in Room 100 of the Adult Education Building, First Baptist Church on Walton Way. For information, contact Dave Welter, 738-2796 or welter@csranet.com.

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP meets 7 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Gibbs Library to discuss “The Sceptre Isle Club” by Brent

AUGUSTA TOASTMASTERS CLUB #326 meets Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. at Advent Lutheran Church. Call 868-8431.

BUSINESS NETWORK INTERNATIONAL Augusta Chapter meets every Thursday morning from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at the Cour tyards by Mariot t. The group isa business networking group designed to give and receive referrals. All professionals welcome. For more information or to join, call Barbara Crenshaw, 868-3772.

RIVERWALK TOASTMASTERS meets Mondays, 7 p.m. in Classroom 3 at University Hospital. Call Gale Kan, 855-7071.

GUIDELINES: Public Service announcements are listed in this section without charge at the discretion of the editor.

Announcements must be received by Monday at noon and will be included as space permits. Send to Events, The Metropolitan Spirit, P.O. Box 3809, Augusta, GA 30914 or fax (706) 733-6663. You may also e-mail listings to rhonda_jones@metspirit.com or lisa_jordan@metspirit.com.

Listings cannot be taken over the phone.

35

Arts: Theatre & Music

Magical Beings, a Pair of Pianists and Singing Waiters

M E T R O

By Rhonda Jones

S P I R I T F E B

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Is a Dark Play Fairies and wizards are the order of the day this week in the world of local theatre, as Storyland Theatre writer Rick Davis has invited old Merlin to join his cast of characters for “The Enchanted Well.” And, though midsummer is a whopping four months away, Augusta Theatre has opted to produce Bill Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

Fully knowing what the answer would be, we asked Augusta Theatre Director James Worth if he planned to follow the traditional route with “Midsummer.”

“No...” he replied.

You’ll remember that “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” involves two sets of lovers who enter a magical forest, only to be made, through the trickery of fairies, to “fall in love” with the wrong partners, thereby confusing everyone. Meanwhile, the king and queen of the fairies, Oberon and Titania, are having arguments that would up the ratings on “The Jerry Springer Show.”

“It’s the wackiest play out there of all of his.

It’s a wonderful play that deals with the consequences of sex. And it’s amazing how something like that can rule our lives and that’s basically what the play is about.”

Worth described the play as “Shakespeare on the couch with Freud.”

And, he said, this is are not a very nice cast of characters. “To me, the only characters with any redeemable qualities are the rude mechanicals. But the rest of them: They’re not very nice people.”

“Bottom is ultimately the one human being that you have to love because he’s the one that shows his humanity totally. He bares his soul.

He bares his soul absolutely to the quick.”

In the end it’s all sorted out, of course, but it’s all sorted out with trickery and lying, he said, as opposed to rationale. Since the end of the story involves everyone somehow finding their way back to their own partners and getting married, we asked if Worth thought that represented a resolution.

“I think as far as the characters are concerned, it’s resolved. But it leaves open questions. Everyone goes off at the end happy, but we know what’s gone before.”

He considers it a cliffhanger of sorts. Too bad Shakespeare never wrote a sequel.

At the end, of course, Puck the fairy, who is a very self-aware character, addresses the audience. “He’s very much saying, this is life. If we offend, life can be offensive. But it goes on.

“Make of it what you will.”

Worth is also abandoning the practice of setting Shakespeare’s works in alternate time periods. “There’s no set style to it. With historical plays I think there is a place to set those within a period. But with these plays, I’d rather take them out of context and mismatch it.”

That makes the setting more universal, he said.

“I’m trying to make it dateless as such,” he said. He wants to dismiss any and all notions that it will be set in the future. “It’s in the past, but it’s in the present as well,” he said.

The costumes, he said, have been chosen

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solely to suit the characters.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will go on Friday, Feb. 14, at 7:30 p.m., with a romantic dinner buffet. Additional performances are as follows: Feb. 15 at 8 p.m.; Feb. 16 at 3 p.m.; Feb. 20 at 8 p.m.; Feb. 21 at 8 p.m.; Feb. 22 at 3 p.m.; Feb. 22 at 8 p.m.; educational matinees for schoolchildren are Feb. 26-28 at 10 a.m.; Feb. 27 at 8 p.m.; Feb. 28 at 8 p.m.; March 1 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Educational matinee price is $6. For other performances, general admission is $15; senior citizens, student and matinee price is $10. The Feb. 14 dinner buffet is $35.

Call the Box Office at (706) 481-9040 or book them online at www.augustatheatre.com.

Augusta Theatre Company is located at 2101 Walton Way in the old Bon Air Hotel across from the Partridge Inn. The theatre is located in the old second-story ballroom.

Storyland Theatre Rick Davis’ “The Enchanted Well” is not quite so dark. Storyland Theatre Executive Director Barbara Feldman spoke to us about the magical adventure. “‘The Enchanted Well’ is the story of a king who’s very ill and his three children go in search of the Water of Life to make him well.”

“Some of his children are...they’re not evil, but they’re selfish,” she added. “One truly loves his father. If I say more, it’s going to give it away.”

Merlin the Magician appears in the play, to manipulate the actions of the characters, she said. They travel through the Enchanted Forest. In fact, she said, the story is based on a Grimm’s fairy tale called “The Water of Life.”

She commented on Davis’ habit of taking from established tales to create a familiar sort of world for his stories. “That’s what’s so neat about his plays,” she said. “And this is an original story,” she added, despite the familiar bits and pieces.

There are three royal children on the journey, she said – two princes and a princess. “I like this for older grades, because it’s such a good character study of all of them. You see who they are and how they feel about their father, and how they approach life.

“This is the kind of play you can write papers on and do scenes from. I really like it.”

“The Enchanted Well” will run Feb. 18-22.

Tuesday through Friday: 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Reservations are required for weekday performances, with teachers and chaperons attending free. Saturday family matinee is 3 p.m., with tickets running $4 per person. The Box Office opens at 2:15 p.m. For info call (706) 736-3455 or (706) 731-0054.

All performances held at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Center on the campus of Augusta State University.

A Piano Duo With Augusta Symphony If you want to take in a little classical music next weekend, two members of Augusta Symphony are going to perform a piano duo. continued on page 36

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Left to Right: Dana Hughes, Vishal Arora and Justin Brown as Queen Titania, King Oberon and Puck in Augusta Theatre’s production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

Two princes and a princess prepare for a journey to try to save the life of their father, the King.

Martin David Jones and Clara Park will play a piano duo - on two pianos.

36 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

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continued from page 35 Martin David Jones and Clara Park will perform Francis Poulenc’s “Concerto for Two Pianos” and Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals.” The Saint-Saëns piece features a narrator. They will be playing in conjunction with Augusta Symphony for three days.

The two are partners in life as well as in music, having married just before joining the Augusta State University faculty five years ago. They met in grad school at The Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, Md., and stayed in touch even when she went to Yale to pursue her doctorate and he remained at Peabody to pursue his.

“We kept MCI in business,” Park, who is an Athens, Ga., native, said.

And if you think two pianists are too many for one household – well, I guess it depends if you’re trying to take a nap.

“It’s noisy,” Jones said. Otherwise, he and Park kind of like it.

“Piano is kind of a lonely instrument, as a solo player,” Park said. “It’s nice to have a partner you can play a duo with.”

But of course, she said, having a musical partnership tests their personal relationship, as well as infiltrates the rest of their home life.

For instance, their 2-year-old daughter, Maya.

“We’ve already bought her a baby grand piano,” Jones said.

Well, a toy one anyway.

The Masterworks Concert takes place on Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. free preview lecture by Augusta Symphony’s Jonathan Aceto. The concert features Ward’s “Jubilation Overture,” Poulenc’s “Concerto for Two Pianos in D minor” and Shostakovich’s “Symphony No. 10 in E minor, op. 93.” The Publix Family Concert Series will be held on Feb. 23 at 3 p.m., featuring pre-concert entertainment at 2:15 by the Greenbrier Middle School Chorus and Riverbanks Zoo Exhibit.

Jones and Park will perform Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals” with the orchestra.

The Symphony will perform several animaltitled works as well. The Discovery Concert Series show will be Feb. 24 at 11:30 a.m. and Feb. 25 at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. All concerts will be performed at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre on the campus of Augusta State University.

Cowboy Envy and Singing Waiters According to www.cowboyenvy.com, Cowboy Envy are four musicians with distinctive careers who came together to make a new kind of Western music. They are Rodger French, also known as Ropin’ Rodger – accordion player, percussionist and juggler. He is the musical director for The DeLuxe

Vaudeville Orchestra, a variety show band which has come to Augusta. He is involved in Atlanta theatrical productions, and in yet another life, he is a ... (gulp!) ... a clown.

Berné Poliakoff, whom they call Frenchie, is a guitarist who says she chose music as her career because she hates to wake up early. As a guitarist, she covers the likes of Joni Mitchell, Fats Waller and Bob Dylan, sings French songs and her own originals. She’s also into whips, which is, apparently, a feature of the show. If you go, I’d keep a respectful distance. A couple of her songs written specifically for Cowboy Envy are “I Left His Heart (in San Francisco),” which is a cowboy tribute to Tony Bennett and a cow song called “Born To Be Branded.” She very nearly missed being a member of Cowboy Envy because of the originally proposed name for the group. She just couldn’t see herself as a member of a band called “The Cows.”

Kathleen Hatfield, known as Buffalo K., is a singer/songwriter who enjoys a number of musical styles: jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, bluegrass, country-and-western and more. She also sings with Full Moon Trio and once upon a time sang for the bluegrass band Gypsy Heart.

DeDe Vogt, known as Too Short, owns Sound & Fury Recording Studios in Atlanta, Ga., as well as being a bassist/guitarist, singer and songwriter. She is the mastermind of the group.

Cowboy Envy will perform as part of the Tuesday’s Music Live series, Tuesday, Feb. 18 at noon in the sanctuary of Saint Paul’s Church at 6th and Reynolds Street at the Riverwalk in downtown Augusta. They will be performing Western songs of the 1930s and ‘40s, with a style reminiscent of both Gene Autry and the Andrews Sisters. The concert is free, but if you choose to have lunch you must make an advance reservation for $7. Call (706) 722-3463.

And now for the singing waiters. This is your chance to experience the Augusta Collegium Musicum in their theatrical mode.

On Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m., you can enjoy “Dinner at Asti’s” – an Italian dinner served to you by the choral singers. There will also be volunteer waiters to fill in for the singers when they have to, well, sing. This will take place in the Great Hall of the Sacred Heart Cultural Center.

Sacred Heart Executive Director Sandra Fenstermacher is excited about the venue’s “coming out.”

“The exciting thing for us is, we’ve just done a lot of renovations in our dome. We will unveil all of that. It will be the first time anyone’s seen it.”

For reservations, call 826-4700.

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Cinema

RATINGS

★★★★ — Excellent.

S P I R I T F E B

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Courtesy of Focus Films

one is an A&R executive at a record label and the other is the editor of a glossy music mag. Even though they’re both involved with others, the two find that they may have already found love – years ago with each other. Cast: Sanaa Latham, Taye Diggs, Queen Latifah, Mos Def. Chicago (PG-13) —- It's been 23 years since Richard Gere stripped on Broadway for "Bent." Now he gets to pull of f his clothes as slick shyster Billy Flynn.

Mostly in wonder ful suits, his hair shining like creased silver, Gere is having the best time of his movie life, singing and tapdancing and lording over women with rakish snaz. He's a lioness-tamer; the main cats are Velma Kelly (Catherine Zeta-Jones), a cabaret sex bazooka and killer on Death Row and newcomer Roxie Har t (Renee Zellweger), a Bet ty Boop who killed her lover. For cash and headlines, Flynn will help guilty women beat the law. "Chicago" is zip for depth, but it has all the sexy sur face it needs to be ex travagantly alive. It tops of f at the Chicago Theater, and the old show palace looks delighted. Cast: Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere, John C. Reilly, Queen Latifah, Christine Baranski, Taye Diggs. Running time: 1 hr., 53 mins. (Elliot t) ★★★★ Daredevil (PG-13) — The wealth of comic book characters making it to the big screen in live-action flicks continues with Ben Af fleck playing Marvel comic book hero Daredevil. Even though a childhood accident lef t Daredevil without sight, his heightened senses of hearing, touch, taste and smell enable him to fight crime. Another help in his quest is girlfriend Elek tra, who’s packing some skills of her own — the mar tial ar ts kind. Cast: Ben Af fleck, Jennifer Garner, Colin Farrell, Michael Clarke Duncan.

Darkness Falls (PG-13) — A young man in a

“The Pianist”

M E T R O

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Movie Listings About Schmidt (R) — Sad, very sad. Not only because Jack Nicholson is playing a sour, dumpy bore, but because the movie is a bore. As Schmidt, he's the lit tle American loser who set tled for mediocre, false comfor t through conformity, but Alexander Payne directs as if this dull fact is a fresh revelation. The film is iner t, rarely funny and rarely dramatic, though Kathy Bates swings her jived bulk into a hot tub and briefly sparks Jack into an inkling of his stellar self; then he shrinks. Sad. 2 hrs. (Elliot t) ★ Adaptation (R) — "Adaptation" is an occasionally inspired film about a writer stymied by his screenplay.

Nicolas Cage plays both Charlie Kaufman and his brother Donald (who isn't real), a sor t of creative antibody. Cage's Charlie is a sweat bag of fear about every idea, frantic about losing his hair and not appealing to women he can barely approach; Don is an upbeat, pushy doof prone to bad jokes and happily stupid at titude. Beyond the doubled Cage compulsion (good acting, even bet ter tech work), the film has rich filler. Cast: Nicolas Cage, Meryl Streep, Chris Cooper, Cara Seymour, Tilda Swinton. Running time: 1 hr., 54 mins.

(Elliot t) ★★★1/2 Biker Boyz (PG-13) — Described as a “contemporary Western on wheels,” “Biker Boyz” delves into the underground world of motorcycle racing.

Undefeated champ Smoke dominates California’s racing scene, but his position is threatened by a young racer named Kid. Kid’s out to win Smoke’s helmet — and his fame. Cast: Laurence Fishburne, Derek Luke, Orlando Jones, Djimon Hounsole, Lisa Bonet, Kid Rock.

Brown Sugar (PG-13) — "Brown Sugar " is a romantic comedy focusing on two childhood friends who have both found success in the world of hip-hop:

37

“Deliver Us From Eva”

small town, isolated because the locals think he’s crazy, is the only one who can help a young boy, the brother of his childhood girlfriend. The boy is threatened by a centuries-old evil, a force that served as the inspiration for the seemingly innocuous tale of the tooth fairy. Cast: Chaney Kley, Emma Caulfield, Joshua Anderson, Andrew Bayly, Emily Browning.

Deliver Us From Eva (R) — Eva, described as the “sister-in-law from hell” by the men in her life, is one big nagging pain in the — well, you get the idea.

The guys, desperate to stop her nagging and shut her up for good, hope that the right man will do the trick.

They pay a smooth studmuf fin, played by LL Cool J, to seduce Eva. The results of the experiment come as a surprise to everyone. Cast: Gabrielle Union, LL Cool J, Essence Atkins, Dar tanyan Edmonds, Meagan Good.

Die Another Day (PG-13) — Pierce Brosnan moves with energy and can fake conviction. His chest hair is superb, his voice remains Bondaceous. But he looks peaked, and we imagine he found time to remember when acting meant, well, acting. Not just pulverizing glass, plunging through ice, brandishing absurd weapons and making limp jokes. True to its Cold War roots, the series reaches for one more rot ten Commie enemy. So bring on dear old Nor th Korea. A Pyongyang lunatic has found the resources, via diamonds, to create a satellite sun called Icarus, to burn or blind the dumb Yanks, the snot ty Brits and the greedy South Korean stooges. He captures Bond, tortures him, then zips of f to Cuba, where he is DNA-morphed into a sneery Brit named Graves (Toby Stephens).

We recall Connery, and old plots that, however abundantly silly, were adventurous larks and not just plastic shelves for hardware display. Cast: Pierce Brosnan, Halle Berry, Toby Stephens, Rosamund Pike, John Cleese, Judi Dench, Rick Yune. Running time: 2 hrs.

(Elliot t) ★★ Drumline (PG-13) — A young street drummer from Harlem wins a scholarship to at tend a Southern university and decides to make the trek af ter being convinced by the university’s band director, even though he knows he’ll have a hard time fit ting in.

Gradually, his drumming skills help the other students warm up to him. Cast: Nick Cannon, Orlando Jones, Zoe Saldana, Jason Weaver.

8 Mile (R) — As Jimmy "Rabbit" Smith, Eminem flunks his first hip-hop bat tle, a cut ting contest of insult rhymes at a black club, is pegged a choker and sulks back to his grueling job at a metal-stamping mill. The simple story is how Rabbit motorizes his mouth, confirming the "genius" proclaimed by pal and club emcee Future (Mekhi Phifer). As a buzzer, it has juice. Thanks to Eminem and the rising rap momentum, "8 Mile" is engrossing. In this urban, if not urbane, fantasy, the hero takes a bad beating, gets up and goes to work, interrupts work to wow everyone at the hip-hop club, then returns to work af ter a verbal outlay that would have put even Winston Churchill in bed for days. Cast: Eminem, Kim Basinger, Mekhi Phifer, Evan Jones, Brit tany Murphy, Anthony Mackie. Running time: 1 hr., 58 mins. (Elliot t) ★★★ Final Destination 2 (R) — As in the first movie, a group of teen-agers manages to cheat death. But death, unsatisfied with the teens’ getaway, pursues in a

★★★— Worthy.

★★ — Mixed.

★ — Poor.

myriad of disturbing ways. Kimberly, driving a group of friends to Florida, has a premonition that helps them avoid being caught in a fatal freeway pileup. Death has other plans. Cast: Ali Lar ter, A.J. Cook, Michael Landes, T.C. Carson, Jonathan Cherry, James Kirk, Tony Todd.

Friday After Next (R) — This is the third film in the "Friday" series and features the same people, places and pals highlighted in the first two. "Friday Af ter Nex t" takes place around Christmas, as Craig and Day-Day are working as security guards af ter a "ghetto Santa" who’s been stealing presents. Cast: Ice Cube, Mike Epps, Don "D.C." Curry.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (PG) — Harry (Daniel Radclif fe) faces destiny with a

clear eye and spor ty will, not the least neurotic despite having been orphaned into a family of idiotic prigs who treat him abominably. He again escapes to Hogwar ts, to his pals (Ruper t Grint as wobble-faced Ron, Emma Watson as bookworm Hermione) and the snippish regard of Prof. Snape (Alan Rickman) and Prof.

McGonegall (Maggie Smith), and the wonder ful giant Hagrid (Robbie Coltrane) and Headmaster Dumbledore (Richard Harris, now dead). Jason Isaacs should be given more time as Lucius, the evil, white-maned father of snob Draco Malfoy. There is a sense of a grand machine greased, sometimes grinding. The "chamber of secrets" is less an exciting mystery at the center than a device to car t the bulky saga forward. Cast: Daniel Radclif fe, Ruper t Grint, Emma Watson, Kenneth Branagh, Richard Harris, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, Robbie Coltrane. Running time: 2 hrs., 41 mins.

(Elliot t) ★★★ The Hot Chick (PG-13) — If the name isn’t enough to scare you, perhaps the idea that a vapid teenage girl wakes up to find herself inhabiting Rob Schneider’s body is. In the course of trying to get back to her true self, the popular teen discovers just how shallow she is. Cast: Rob Schneider, Andrew Keegan, Mat thew Lawrence.

The Hours (PG-13) — The story begins with Virginia Woolf (Nicole Kidman) taking her famous last walk into a river, af ter put ting a big stone in her coat pocket. The movie keeps piling stones. Woolf's creation of "Mrs. Dalloway" and her much later final weeks with devotedly desperate husband Leonard (Stephen Dillane) are intercut with suf fering Woolfian women in two stories. The depressed housewife Laura (Julianne Moore), in 1950s Los Angeles, and the modern New Yorker, Clarissa (Meryl Streep), frantic about preparing a par ty for her AIDS-dying former lover, the writer Richard (Ed Harris). The stories link. The conception is all of a piece, organically imagined. It sends out tendrils of dark feeling about life and dying, ar t and love and transience. Cast: Meryl Streep, Ed Harris, Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, Stephen Dillane, Miranda Richardson, Jef f Daniels, Claire Danes. Running time: 1 hr., 54 mins. (Elliot t) ★★1/2

How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) — should be retitled "How to Lose a Movie in 10 Minutes." The spirited opening credits are a clever visual and musical introduction to Andie Anderson

0— Not worthy.

continued on page 38

38

“The Jungle Book 2”

“Talk to Her”

M E T R O S P I R I T Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics

F E B 1 3 Courtesy of Disney

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continued from page 37 (Kate Hudson) as she dashes and fumbles though research for "how-to" ar ticles published in a glitzy women's magazine. But all promise evaporates when the lame dialogue begins. Andie is destined to meet Mat thew McConaughey's womanizing adver tising executive, Ben Barry, whose major goal is snagging the world's biggest diamond account. These two up-andcoming New York hot ties bump along through the contrived plot, which involves Andie's "how to lose a guy" assignment and Ben's bet with competing co-workers that he can make a woman fall in love with him — all in the same 10-day deadline. The teasers for "10 Days" tout: "One of them is lying. So is the other." Ah, yes, the per fect date movie. Happy Valentine's Day. Cast: Kate Hudson, Mat thew McConaughey, Adam Goldberg, Bebe Neuwir th. Running time: 1 hr., 50 mins. (Wood) ★1/2 The Jungle Book 2 (G) — Mowgli and friends return in this animated sequel to the Disney classic.

Mowgli has adjusted to life in the village with all the other humans, but he still misses his animal friends, especially Baloo. When Mowgli sneaks away to the jungle to visit his old pals, it’s a race to see who can find him first: the friends he’s looking to visit or man-eating tiger Shere Khan. Cast: John Goodman, Haley Joel Osment, Tony Jay. Kangaroo Jack (PG) — Two childhood friends, Charlie (Jerry O'Connell) and Louis (Anthony Anderson), from Brooklyn are forced to deliver a mysterious envelope to Australia af ter one of them accidentally causes the police to raid a mob warehouse. En route to the land down under, Louis peeks in the package and discovers that it contains $50,000. Af ter the guys arrive in the Outback, they accidentally run over a kangaroo. Louis decides to take pictures of the animal and even puts shades and his lucky jacket on the 'roo, which is only stunned and hops away with the jacket containing the money. Now the guys are forced to chase the animal through the Outback, or they'll have to repay the mob with their lives. The real star of "Kangaroo Jack" is the beautiful Outback. That alone may be wor th the price of admission. Or not. Cast: Jerry O'Connell, Anthony Anderson, Estella Warren, Christopher Walken, Dyan Cannon, Mar ton Csokas.

Running time: 1 hr., 30 mins. (McCormick) ★

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Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (PG13) — Long, violent, death-fixated, dark in tone,

heavy in heroic mood, this is a film for addicts of the series. Lit tle Frodo is marginalized as Viggo Mor tensen leads the defense of a castle from hordes of vicious scumballs, and the two grand beards (Ian McKellan, Christopher Lee) contend for Middle Ear th.

There's a lit tle schizo in a wispy loincloth, expressively per formed and voiced, but the almost Stone Age my thology rolls over us like layers of geology. 3 hrs.

(Elliot t) ★★ National Security (PG-13) — Mar tin Lawrence and Steve Zahn play L.A.P.D. rejects on both ends of the spectrum who get paired up as security guards. While on par tol, they uncover a smuggling operation, in between bits of slapstick that are obligatory for films of this genre. Cast: Mar tin Lawrence, Steve Zahn, Eric Rober ts.

Old School (R) — Three buddies, men in their twenties, wish to recapture the good ol’ days: college, when raging keggers and hot girls were plentiful. They get their chance when one of them decides it’s a good idea to star t their own of f-campus frat house. Cast: Luke Wilson, Will Ferrell, Vince Vaughn, Elisha Cuthber t.

The Pianist (R) — The story of how gif ted pianist Wladyslaw Szpilman (played by delicately featured, demurely expressive Adrien Brody) survived the Nazi rape of Poland and the Holocaust is blended without hysteria, indeed with sobering control, into the personal gravity of director Roman Polanski's childhood during the war hell. It's a wonder ful film, with surges of honest feeling that can knock you nearly flat, and Chopin underscores the emotions. 2 hrs., 28 mins.

(Elliot t) ★★★★ The Recruit (PG-13) — Al Pacino, as CIA recruiter Walter Burke, takes young MIT grad James Clay ton (Colin Farrell) "through the looking glass," for spy training and tough tests at The Farm, the CIA school outside Washington. His insider hook on Clay ton is that he might have the secret the younger man needs to know, about the dead father whom he suspects died on a CIA mission in 1990. The story tangles boyish Clay ton with the recruit Layla (Bridget Moynahan), another go-for-it brain with a similar taste for danger. The story twists and snaps through the settings with tricky confidence, and the modern device of using computers fits this plot snugly. "The Recruit" manages the commercially savvy trick of being both insolent and patriotic about the CIA. It will probably recruit some fans of this movie. Cast: Al Pacino, Colin Farrell, Gabriel Macht, Bridget Moynahan. Running time: 1 hr., 45 mins. (Elliot t) ★★★ The Ring (PG-13) — begins with the telling of an urban-legend-like tale that, for a while, seems likely to consign this movie to the slasher/horror bin: A weird videotape is circulating. As soon as you're through watching it, the telephone rings. A voice on the phone informs you that you have seven days to live. Seven days later, you die. The film boasts first-rate per formances, a gorgeous look, an engaging plot and a jangly, thrumming sense of dread. The ef fectiveness of such a movie depends entirely on the beholder. Save for a long, uneasy feeling of foreboding and one solid jolt, I didn't find it all that scary. Two young women exiting the theater in front of me, however, declared that the thing had terrified them, and I'm willing to take their word for it. Cast: Naomi Wat ts, Mar tin Henderson, David Dor fman, Brian Cox. Running time: 1 hr., 55 mins. (Salm) ★★1/2 Shanghai Knights (PG-13) — This is a sequel to 2000's silly hit "Shanghai Noon." The sequel feels longer and has some sag. Jackie Chan is a former imperial guardsman from 19th-century Peking, but gone to the Old (then young) West as Chon Wang, a.k.a. John Wayne. He's now a sherif f, and Owen Wilson as scampy ladies' man Roy O'Bannon has decamped to Victorian London, where he is a stubblecheeked waiter, but still has a harem of loyal females.

The Chinese imperial seal with a huge diamond is falling into the sneaky hands of an imperial wannabe in exile, who is allied with a wannabe future king of England. The film ends with the usual Chan bonus, a spree of blooper shots. Cast: Jackie Chan, Owen Wilson, Fann Wong, Aaron Johnson, Gemma Jones.

Running time: 1 hr., 42 mins. (Elliot t) ★★1/2 Solas (NR) — This Spanish impor t examines the relationship between mother and daughter, as Maria and her estranged mother meet again. Maria’s mother is staying with her during her husband’s hospital stay, and Maria is forced to confront her childhood memories of her father’s abusiveness and her mother’s passivity. As the days pass, Maria realizes her mother’s gentle spirit is a rare strength in the modern world.

Cast: Paco de Osca, Antonio Dechant, Ana Fernandez.

Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams (PG) — A cheer ful theme park of a comedy about

junior spies, with a bigger budget and more inventive fun than the 2001 original (the plot is no advance).

Rober t Rodriguez directed, wrote, helped with the digital ef fects and gizmo touches, including excellent creatures. The many Hispanic rif fs do not land with PC heaviness, and the lively cast includes Alexa Vega and Daryl Sabara as the main kids, plus Antonio Banderas, Steve Buscemi, Carla Gugino, Alan Cumming, Bill Pa x ton, Tony Shalhoub, Danny Trejo, Cheech Marin and (still macho at 81) Ricardo Montalban. Running time: 1 hr., 27 mins. (Elliot t) ★★★ Star Trek: Nemesis (PG-13) — Politically, the story parallels "The Undiscovered Country," with peace over tures this time coming from the Romulans. Their new leader, Shinzon (Hardy), turns out to be not only human, but a young clone of Captain Picard (Patrick Stewar t). He'd been engineered for nefarious purposes, then abandoned and sent to die on Romulus' sister planet, Remus, Shinzon grows up to lead the Reman species in a successful revolt. Now, he wants only to make peace. Or does he? The film goes on at roughly the rate dilithium crystals melt at room temperature until the last half-hour, at which point the filmmakers remember that in "Star Trek" there are such things as phasers, photon torpedoes, cloaking devices, warp drives and starships. For our patience, we are rewarded with a prolonged O.K. Corral shootout. Cast: Patrick Stewar t, Jonathan Frakes, Tom Hardy, Marina Sir tis, Brent Spiner, LeVar Bur ton, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden. Running time: 1 hr., 48 mins. (Salm) ★★1/2 Sweet Home Alabama (PG-13) — Only a year and two weeks af ter New York became our most tormented but inspiring city, it is upstaged by a happy hicksville called Pigeon Creek. Why? Because cute "Mel" (Reese Witherspoon) fled poor-folks marriage to Pigeon Creek sweethear t Jake (Josh Lucas). She is now a light of Manhat tan as fashion designer Melanie Carmichael. And she has the love of politically upward dreamboat Andrew (Patrick Dempsey, son of The Apple's tough but dishy mayor, Candice Bergen). Andy doesn't know that his betrothed is still married to 'Bama boy Jake, who is hur t, haunted and planning his own rise from mediocrity. Mel returns home for a divorce, puts on her corn-pone accent instantly, and rediscovers the joys of Pigeon Creek. Director Andy Tennant serves this corny material with the skill of a machine punching out Alabama license plates. Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, Patrick Dempsey, Fred Ward, Mary Kay Place, Candice Bergen. Running time: 1 hr., 40 mins. (Elliot t) ★★ Talk to Her (R) — Two men, strangers, end up sit ting nex t to each other at a moving theatrical performance. Their paths cross again at a clinic where one of them, Benigno, works, caring for people in comas. Marco is there to see his girlfriend, a bullfighter recently admit ted af ter being gored by a bull. The two men have more in common than they think: Benigno has fallen in love with one of his charges, a beautiful ballet student. Cast: Javier Camara, Dario Grandinet ti, Leonor Watling, Rosario Flores. Running time: 1 hr., 52 mins.

They (PG-13) — A grad student witnesses a horrifying incident, which rekindles her childhood fears of the dark and night terrors. Soon, she finds herself wondering if the images that plagued her as a child were real. Cast: Larua Regan, Marc Blucas, Dagmara Dominczyk, Ethan Embry, John Abrahams.

—Capsules compiled from movie reviews written by David Elliott, film critic for The San Diego Union-Tribune and other staff writers.

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Cinema: Close-Up

Ben Affleck Takes On the Role of By Joey Berlin Superhero Daredevil

F

or a moment, the focus with regard to Ben Affleck will shift back to acting, or at least movie making. Affleck’s crimson, skintight superhero costume in “Daredevil” will distract the public away from his mesmerizing courtship of Jennifer Lopez and whether he really is, as People magazine recently proclaimed, the sexiest man alive.

The late-winter release of “Daredevil” comes as a pre-emptive box-office strike, because the summer months will see other comic book heroes crowding the big screen.

Affleck stars as Matthew Murdock, a respected lawyer who was blinded by a childhood accident involving nuclear waste. But he secretly has enhanced radar senses, which enable him to fight crime as the masked crusader Daredevil.

Q: First, how does it feel to live with Jennifer Lopez in the eye of the hurricane, with probably the year’s most celebrated love affair?

A: It’s a little weird, you know? It’s new for me. I’ve been in public relationships before, with Gwyneth Paltrow, and it wasn’t quite the same thing. I was a little bit shocked, but I take a lot of comfort in the fact that there’s only so much that writers can say about us, and then there’ll be somebody else. Then it’s, “Colin Farrell is dating Britney Spears,” and we’re off the hook entirely.

Q: In regards to “Daredevil” — A: Ah, there we go.

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Q: Did playing a blind person hinder you or free you?

A: I worked with a guy named Tom Sullivan, who’s blind, but he’s one of those guys who jumps out of airplanes and is a really good skier and makes you feel really inadequate. He helped me and talked about how someone who’s blind uses their other senses to navigate their surroundings. The big cheat for me was that I was able to use these contact lenses which were completely opaque. I couldn’t see out of them at all, so I didn’t have to consciously act blind or try not to use my eyes. The contacts took that away.

Then the real challenge was not walking into furniture.

Q: Why are you such a big fan of the “Daredevil” comics?

A: It’s hard to say. That’s probably a conversation better suited to my shrink, but why not? I seem to be comfortable exposing every other issue of my life to the world. I know that when I was a kid, there was a contrast between this hero and others in the comic book universe, many of whom were really very chaste, Boy Scout, black-and-white, golden-age

comic book heroes. Daredevil represented something to me that I thought was more realistic. It sounds funny to say that about a guy who puts on a red suit and fights crime at night. But he was a flawed hero. He struggled with himself as much as he struggled with the rest of the world. I guess that resonated with me a little more.

Q: Daredevil is fearless. Do you have any fears?

A: I have so many fears that it would be hard to itemize them all. My real super hero would be, like, Anxiety Guy. Q: Are you afraid that your celebrity will go away?

A: No, I’m hopeful. I’m hopeful that one day it’ll go away. Ultimately, I would like to be able to work in this business and make movies without being quite so “in the eye of the hurricane.”

Basically the trade-off is just money. It just means you don’t make as much.

Right now, a big part of why I get cast in films, although I’d like to think it’s because I’m a great towering talent of an actor, I have to acknowledge that some of it has to do with marketability and visibility. And that’s the trade-off. You make a bunch of money because you, kind of, sell the story of yourself along with the movie.

So there’s a part of me that wants to transition from doing that to taking more of a back seat, letting somebody else sit here and talk about their love life and all their personal details. Maybe I’ll direct and write stuff. You know, nobody wants to talk to directors all that much.

Cinema: Review

41

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“Shanghai Knights” Embraces Silliness

All Night

By David Elliott

J

ackie Chan and Owen Wilson are having the merriest time in “Shanghai Knights.” As stars, they are made of helium and without gravity.

This is a sequel to 2000’s silly hit “Shanghai Noon,” which struck me and a lot of other people (yes, “people” and “critics” can overlap) as a sporty lark with good timing and teaming. Chan provided the acrobatic muscle and some smiling dignity, while Wilson did his surfer-in-a-dry-land act, his mall-guy update on Bob Hope’s sass in the Hope & Crosby road films.

The sequel feels longer and has some sag. Chan is a former imperial guardsman from 19th-century Peking, but gone to the Old (then young) West as Chon Wang, a.k.a. John Wayne. He’s now a sheriff, and Wilson as scampy ladies’ man Roy O’Bannon has decamped to Victorian London, where he is a stubblecheeked waiter but still has a harem of loyal females.

The story is no story, just a good-time cascade of goofs. The Chinese imperial seal with a huge diamond is falling into the sneaky hands of an imperial wannabe in exile, who is allied with a wannabe future king of England. The Britisher is tenth in line to the throne but eager to murder his way there, perhaps having had a psychic preview showing of “Kind Hearts and Coronets” (1949).

The movie is full of such stick-ons and anachronisms. Queen Victoria (Gemma Jones) is coming to her Diamond Jubilee, but at the weight she had decades earlier.

The Chinese opium wars, also decades earlier, are talked about as a recent occurrence. The Gatling gun is also fresh

news, though not really new hardware.

But chill out, dude, it’s a comedy!

Chan and Wilson zip around a stagebuilt and digitalized London. The frequent rock score suggests Ye Olde Mod London, and in a stuffy parlor we hear “One” (is the loneliest number). Chan cuts loose in his kicky way, including the use of props in Gene Kelly style, and to underline it we actually hear the tune of “Singin’ in the Rain.”

Jackie Chan has gone from boyish to manly boyish to middle-aged boyish, and we can believe he will be doing senior boyish before mumbling and stumbling into senile boyish. As acting talent, he’s in the Chuck Norris zone, but Chuck never seemed boyish, or so likably funny and cute.

Owen Wilson, a jived jester, makes boyishness seem a state of cartoon grace.

He has the air of expecting to find a really great keg party around every corner, and his oblivious charm is fairly amazing — he keeps being snarky and obnoxious without being, in any real way, offensive.

Some touches fell flat with the mostly pleased preview audience. A cute urchin is a pink-cheeked version of the Artful Dodger (the old Dickens team, not the L.A. one), and is whimsically revealed to be young Charlie Chaplin. This drew no peep of response — we may have finally reached the point where the greatest star of silents, maybe the greatest of all movie stars, is now a celebrity washout in the plexes.

The film ends with the usual Chan bonus, a spree of blooper shots. This one seemed longer than before, which might not be the best compliment to the movie, but it gets laughs.

Overall

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REGAL AUGUSTA EXCHANGE 20 Movies Good 2/14 - 2/20 Daredevil (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 12:15, 1:00, 2:10, 2:45, 3:30, 4:40, 5:20, 7:10, 7:40, 8:10, 9:35, 10:05, 10:45, 12:05, 12:35; Sun-Thur: 12:15, 1:00, 2:10, 2:45, 3:30, 4:40, 5:20, 7:10, 7:40, 8:10, 9:35, 10:05, 10:45 Talk to Her (R) 12:10, 2:40, 5:10, 7:45, 10:15 Jungle Book 2 (G) 12:00, 12:45, 2:15, 3:15, 4:30, 5:20, 7:00, 9:15 Gangs of New York (R) 9:00 Old School (R) Sun: 7:30 Deliver Us From Eva (R) Fri-Sat: 1:45, 4:20, 7:15, 10:10, 12:30; Sun-Thur: 1:45, 4:20, 7:15, 10:10 Shanghai Knights (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 7:50, 9:50, 10:30, 12:25; Sun-Thur: 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 7:50, 9:50, 10:30 How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 12:00, 1:30, 2:50, 4:05, 5:25, 7:05, 8:00, 9:40, 10:35, 12:20; Sun-Thur: 12:00, 1:30, 2:50, 4:05, 5:25, 7:05, 8:00, 9:40, 10:35 Final Destination 2 (R) Fri-Sat: 12:30, 3:05, 5:15, 7:55, 10:20, 12:35; Sun-Thur: 12:30, 3:05, 5:15, 7:55, 10:20 The Recruit (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 12:05, 2:35, 5:00, 7:30, 10:05, 12:40; Sun-Thur:12:05, 2:35, 5:00, 7:30, 10:05 Biker Boyz (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 12:15, 2:55, 5:30, 8:05, 10:40; Sun-Thur: 12:15, 2:55 The Hours (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 1:05, 3:55, 6:55, 9:25, 12:00; Sun-Thur: 1:05, 3:55, 6:55, 9:25 Darkness Falls (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 1:15, 3:35, 5:45, 8:15, 10:25, 12:45; Sun-Thur: 1:15, 3:35, 5:45, 8:15, 10:25 National Security (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 12:35, 3:00, 5:05, 7:20, 9:30, 11:45; Sun-Thur: 12:35, 3:00, 5:05, 7:20, 9:30 Chicago (PG-13) 11:55, 2:30, 4:55, 7:35, 10:10 Kangaroo Jack (PG) 12:25, 2:25, 4:35, 6:45 Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (PG-13) 1:25, 5:40, 9:20 Drumline (PG-13) 1:35, 4:25, 7:25, 10:15 EVANS 12 CINEMAS Movies Good 2/14 - 2/20 The Pianist (R) Fri-Mon: 1:45, 5:20, 8:30; Tues-Thur: 5:20, 8:30 Jungle Book 2 (G) Fri: 3:15, 5:15, 7:15, 9:00; SatMon: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:15, 9:00; Tues-Thur: 5:15, 7:15, 9:00 Daredevil (PG-13) Fri: 2:00, 4:00, 5:00, 7:00, 7:45, 9:15, 10:00; Sat-Mon: 1:00, 2:00, 4:00, 5:00, 7:00, 7:45, 9:15, 10:00; Tues-Thur: 4:00, 5:00, 7:00, 7:45, 9:15, 10:00 How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) Fri-Mon: 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 9:45; Tues-Thur: 4:50, 7:20, 9:50 Shanghai Knights (PG-13) Fri-Mon: 2:10, 4:40, 7:30, 9:50; Tues-Thur: 4:40, 7:30, 9:50 Adaptation (R) 7:40 The Recruit (PG-13) Fri-Mon: 1:50, 4:30, 7:10, 9:30;

Tues-Thur: 4:30, 7:10, 9:30 Final Destination 2 (R) Fri: 3:35, 5:35, 7:35, 9:35; Sat-Mon: 1:35, 3:35, 5:35, 7:35, 9:35; Tues-Thur: 5:35, 7:35, 9:35 Chicago (PG-13) Fri-Mon: 1:55, 4:20, 7:05, 9:20; Tues-Thur: 4:20, 7:05, 9:20 Darkness Falls (PG-13) Fri: 3:30, 5:30, 9:55; SatMon: 1:30, 3:30, 5:30, 9:55; Tues-Thur: 5:30, 9:55 About Schmidt (R) Fri: 4:10, 7:10, 9:40; Sat-Mon: 1:10, 4:10, 7:10, 9:40; Tues-Thur: 4:10, 7:10, 9:40 Kangaroo Jack (PG) Fri: 3:25, 5:25, 7:25, 9:25; SatMon: 1:25, 3:25, 5:25, 7:25, 9:25; Tues-Thur: 5:25, 7:25, 9:25 MASTERS 7 CINEMAS Movies Good 2/14 - 2/20 Daredevil (PG-13) Fri: 5:15, 7:45, 10:00; Sat-Sun: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45, 10:00; Mon: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45; TuesThur: 5:15, 7:45 Jungle Book 2 (G) Fri: 5:00, 7:30, 9:45; Sat-Sun: 3:00, 5:00, 7:30, 9:45; Mon: 3:00, 5:00, 7:30; TuesThur: 5:00, 7:30 Deliver Us From Eva (R) Fri: 5:05, 7:35, 9:50; SatSun: 2:35, 5:05, 7:35, 9:50; Mon: 2:35, 5:05, 7:35; Tues-Thur: 5:05, 7:35 Shanghai Knights (PG-13) Fri: 5:20, 7:50, 10:10; Sat-Sun: 2:50, 5:20, 7:50, 10:10; Mon: 2:50, 5:20, 7:50; Tues-Thur: 5:20, 7:50 How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) Fri: 5:10, 7:40, 10:05; Sat-Sun: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40, 10:05; Mon: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40; Tues-Thur: 5:10, 7:40 Biker Boyz (PG-13) Fri: 5:25, 7:45, 9:55; Sat-Sun: 2:45, 5:25, 7:45, 9:55; Mon: 2:45, 5:25, 7:45; TuesThur: 5:25, 7:45 Final Destination 2 (PG-13) Fri: 5:30, 8:00, 10:15; Sat-Sun: 2:55, 5:30, 8:00, 10:15; Mon: 2:55, 5:30, 8:00; Tues-Thur: 5:30, 8:00 REGAL 12 CINEMAS Movies Good 2/14 - 2/20 Star Trek: Nemesis (PG-13) 2:20, 4:50, 7:30, 10:05 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (PG) 1:55, 5:15, 9:15 The Hot Chick (PG-13) 2:35, 5:05, 7:50, 10:00 Die Another Day (PG-13) 1:55, 4:35, 7:10, 9:45 Friday After Next (R) 2:00, 4:45, 7:00, 9:25 My Big Fat Greek Wedding (PG) 2:05, 4:30, 7:00, 9:35 They (PG-13) 2:45, 5:10, 7:40, 9:30 8 Mile (R) 2:25, 4:55, 7:20, 9:50 The Ring (PG-13) 2:40, 5:00, 7:25, 9:40 Sweet Home Alabama (PG-13) 2:10, 4:40, 7:15, 9:50 Brown Sugar (PG-13) 2:15, 4:25, 7:05, 9:30 Spy Kids 2 (PG) 2:00, 4:25, 7:35, 9:55 ASU SPRING FILM SERIES Movie Good 2/17 Solas (NR) Mon: 7:00

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Music

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B

Weekend of Blues

1 3

BY LISA JORDAN

2 0 0 3

T

his weekend is shaping up to be all about the blues here in Augusta. Local Band El Dorado Deluxe and Athens outfit Park Bench Trio team up for a blues night at the Soul Bar Feb. 15. We also catch up with guitarist Michael Baideme of Black-Eyed Susan.

Bring on the Blues The relaxed way about El Dorado Deluxe belies the ferocity with which they attack the blues. It’s a style guitarist and vocalist Randy Carver Jr. describes as “pork chops and green bean blues” – something you can really sink your teeth into.

“We’re all encountered by the blues.

That’s why I think the blues leaves a wide-open range for a personal touch,” he says. “It’s a wellspring of creativity, the old style of the blues. We try and keep it traditional.”

If you find it hard to believe that a band boasting Jordan Leopard (of Jemani fame) on drums is a traditional blues outfit, you’ll just have to come check out El Dorado Deluxe for yourself.

“At our shows, we’ve had people from 11 years old to their mid to late 70s,” says bassist Keith Ford. “We got Jordan in here and that really surprised people.”

“We’d find (well-intentioned) rock drummers,” says Carver. “That’s where Jordan really impressed us. He’s a powerful factor, but subtle enough that you can hear the band as a whole.”

On a recent Monday afternoon, El Dorado Deluxe revealed the power behind their brand of blues, unleashing a torrent of sound that wailed and moaned to be let out of the cramped studio they were practicing in.

This may be the blues, but there are smiles all around. There’s even some laughter when Leopard receives – and answers – a call on his cell phone in the middle of the song. He manages to talk and drum at the same time, never missing a beat.

“This is a stress-free thing,” Ford says.

“Just have a good time.”

Maybe that relaxed atmosphere can be

El Dorado Deluxe

////////////////////////////////////// “We’re all encountered by the blues. That’s why I think the blues leaves a wide-open range for a personal touch.

It’s a wellspring of creativity, the old style of the blues.

We try and keep it traditional.”

– Randy Carver Jr. of El Dorado Deluxe

////////////////////////////////////// traced back to the origins of the band, which evolved from jam sessions.

“They’d already been established before I hooked up with them,” says Leopard.

“We just kept on jamming,” Ford says.

“We never really went out and said ‘OK, we’re a band.’”

True to form, the lineup of El Dorado Deluxe has been known to shift slightly, with other local musicians filling in for or joining Carver, Ford and Leopard onstage. “We’ll jam with just about anybody,” says Ford. “We play with all kinds of people.”

At a typical gig, you’ll hear a few old-

school covers sprinkled in with El Dorado Deluxe originals. But, as Carver stresses, the band sticks to a traditional style of blues. It’s Carver’s hope that those originals will make it to an album sometime in the next few months.

“I’d really like to submit some stuff, as opposed to just throwing up a mic,” he says. “I think (Keith) knows what we’re capable of. I just don’t think he’ll stand for anything less. There’s a lot to be said for that in today’s market.”

That kind of dedication to quality is what’s earned El Dorado Deluxe the respect of the Augusta music community

– and of Augusta audiences.

“We’ve had a lot of good word of mouth response,” says Carver. “At the 12 Bands of Christmas, we were just really well-received. Everybody was in that good Christmas mood.”

And speaking about another gig, when the venue was packed early in the night to catch El Dorado Deluxe perform, Ford added, “I didn’t realize we had that much of a following. Everybody had heard about us. … Jordan had a lot to do with that. People will say, ‘Well, hey, let’s go look at Jordan’s other band.’ And we’ll start seeing people come back.”

El Dorado Deluxe will perform at the Soul Bar Feb. 15, which will be a night of blues. Park Bench Trio will also perform.

Check out www.soulbar.com for details.

El Dorado Deluxe also has a Feb. 20 gig planned at the Blind Pig, a new venue specifically geared toward blues music.

Carver invites you to check out El Dorado Deluxe at one of the upcoming shows.

Even if you don’t think of yourself as a blues fan, he says, you might be surprised.

“We encourage many people to come out,” he says. “Most all music in some form or another dates back to classical tradition or to the blues. That they connect to it is all I’m after.”

One Cool Mom Any regular at a Black-Eyed Susan show will readily be able to spot the most faithful regular of them all – guitarist Michael Baideme’s mother, Terry Andrews.

“Even without music, we’ve always been a close family,” Andrews says. “I like music. I don’t play.”

“She’s the biggest Beatles fan you’ll ever meet,” interjects Baideme. Andrews smiles and confirms this before she continues.

“I have to be there. He first asked me to come,” she says, speaking about Baideme’s first few performances. When Andrews asked if he still needed her to attend, Baideme replied that he didn’t need her there – he wanted her there. continued on page 44

///////////////////////////////////////

44 continued from page 43 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

“It makes me feel good that my kids want me there,” says Andrews. “I enjoy it. We make a family thing of it. It’s a great joy for me.”

Baideme’s younger brother, Brooks, is also a fixture at Baideme’s performances.

Baideme and Andrews both tell me to keep an eye on Brooks, who is quickly coming into his own as a musician.

“We’re real proud of Brooks,” Andrews says. She relates the story of a special birthday performance in her honor, at which both sons played together and other local musicians stepped in to lend their talents. “It was a wonderful birthday. I really loved the duet of them.”

Another proud moment for Andrews came just a couple weeks ago, when Baideme was honored as Augusta’s favorite guitarist at the Lokal Loudness Music Awards.

“We really loved that,” she says. “It was just a total surprise. It wasn’t just friends and family (that voted for him). Michael plays from the heart, and I think other people can see that.”

“It’s kind of overwhelming, a little bit,” Baideme says. “There’s a lot of talented, great music here.”

And it’s in Augusta’s tightly knit music community that Black-Eyed Susan and Baideme’s other projects thrive.

“Augusta supports their local musicians,” Andrews says. “They’ve got a pretty good camarederieship. He wants to learn from everybody.

“He was always an individual. People, I

Park Bench Trio

think, respect that. He has had some great support from his high school friends. It’s good to see them. Some of the parents come out. I like to see all ages have fun.”

Black-Eyed Susan’s universal appeal is one reason Andrews suspects the band has such a strong following in Augusta – a following Baideme expresses thankfulness for.

“It bridges the age gap,” Andrews says.

“Music makes life bearable. I don’t think it should separate people; I think it should help them come together.”

While Andrews can’t always make every show, she says her son knows she is there in spirit. “I’ll always be there.

Even if I’m not there, he knows I’m there with him,” she says. “I make the majority of them. We get along pretty good. They say children just want your time.”

That Andrews has been able to devote so much of her time to her sons is something Baideme finds admirable.

“She was working a full-time job – me being 13, 14, 15, (Brooks) being two – and going back to school; that’s just great inspiration for me,” he says.

If you haven’t yet seen Baideme perform, there are quite a few chances this week. Baideme and Brooks play with Sabo and the Scorchers Feb. 13 at the Blind Pig; Black-Eyed Susan is at Joe’s

Underground Feb. 15; and Baideme plays Joe’s Feb. 19.

The Blues Continue …

With Park Bench Trio. As we previously mentioned, the band from Athens will join El Dorado Deluxe at the Soul Bar Feb. 15.

“We’ve played the Soul Bar many times. It’s one of our favorite clubs,” says drummer and lead singer Rick Williams.

“It’s been awesome. That’s what’s been so great about the Soul Bar is the crowd.

They’re all right there with you. They all hang on every note. It’s a good feeling at the Soul Bar.” Park Bench Trio, previously known as the Park Bench Blues Band, is bringing a new album to Augusta.

“We do have a new CD, a new record,” Williams says. “It’s our first release as a trio. It came out in the fall. That’s been really great, more so the support we’ve gotten from the local musicians and producers.

That’s been real special for us. We’re real proud of it. It’s called ‘Bitch Road.’”

So why the name “Bitch Road”?

“It’s not because of scorn or anything,” he laughs. “It’s more a comment on how tough it is to play on the road sometimes.”

When asked if the concept of playing on the road has been overly romanticized, Williams replies, “There is something about it, something that runs down the middle of it that really is completely satisfying, but sometimes, it’s really very shitty. You’ve got to take the good with the bad.”

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MUSIC

BY TURNER

M

any fans of the ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND and other regional groups are probably familiar with the excellent fanzine Hitting the Note. Essentially a Southern version of Relix, (which covers the GRATEFUL DEAD and its offshoot musicians), the music rag has covered countless bands including GOVT. MULE, WET WILLIE, STEVE MORSE and the STRING CHEESE INCIDENT. This terrific, lovingly produced publication is receiving the ultimate compliment from GREGG ALLMAN and Company, as the Allman Brothers Band are naming their first studio release in over eight years in its honor. “Hitting the Note” contains 11 new songs, many of which have been played by the band for years in its live shows. A bluesy cover of the ROLLING STONES’ 1964 classic, “Heart of Stone,” is spotlighted, along with new originals that include “Desdemona,” “Rockin’ Horse” and an extended jam, “Instrumental Illness.”

“Hitting the Note” marks the first ever Allman Bothers disc recorded without guitarist DICKEY BETTS. A founding member of the original group, Betts was fired two years ago and was replaced by sometime ABB guitarist WARREN HAYNES. Haynes has once again added life and vitality to the proceedings with his strong playing and compositional skills. Percussionists JAI JOHANNY JOHANSON (Jaimoe to those in the know) and BUTCH TRUCKS are also on the disc, along with bassist OTEIL BURBRIDGE and conga man MARC QUINONES. The album should be unleashed March 18.

Taxes and Panic Dept.

My great-grandmother Cleo once said that folks can always count on two things: taxes and panic. Of course, she became confused quite easily, especially since losing the majority of her hearing at a 1973 BLACK SABBATHDEEP PURPLE twin-bill in Columbia.

BY

Maybe she was right after all. The Ides of April will beckon rockers everywhere to check out the next WIDESPREAD PANIC album, which is due on tax day. The yet-tobe-named disc (their eighth) will be supported by a short U.S. tour that has several cities nearby already set. You can catch the group April 27 at Charlotte’s Center Cityfest and two days later at the Civic Center in Savannah. Better get your tix early...

Canadian power trio RUSH has a treat in store for fans purchasing their new “The Spirit of Radio” hits compilation, due this week. The initial copies of the disc will include a bonus DVD that has videos of “Subdivisions,” “Closer to the Heart,” “Tom Sawyer,” “The Big Money” and “Mystic Rhythms.” A second DVD is planned for later this year as their Nov. 23 tour finale was filmed and will be issued under the title “Rush in Rio.” Real Musicians Dept.

If I wore a hat, I would have to take it off for the good folks at D.Timm’s, who continue to support good local jazz. BLUE DIAMOND EXPRESS, their current house band, continues to draw big crowds throughout the week with well-played sets that include everything from DAVE BRUBECK to ETTA JAMES. Pianist JOSEF PATCHEN, guitarist STEVE MITCHELL, bassist DAVID HEATH and drummer MIKE WEST are so ultra tight that one might think that they are in a cool Manhattan club.

Collectively, these guys have well over a century of experience and remain among the best players anywhere. Catch them soon.

Turner’s Rock and Roll Jeopardy: A. This 1983 hit, “The Curly Shuffle,” was recorded by these one-hit wonders.

Q. Who were Jump ‘N the Saddle?

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ED TURNER

Be the one to go with us to Laughlin, NV for the Karaoke Finals.

National Grand Prize Winner receives $3,500 cash, plus gifts & possible recording contract.

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MINIS

MICHAEL JACKSON UPDATE According to Billboard.com Daily Music News reports, we haven’t heard the last from Michael Jackson on the subject of sleeping children and other icky things.

He’s releasing his own video of the yearlong conversation he had with British journalist Martin Bashir which resulted in “Living With Michael Jackson.” The kooky singer’s answer to Bashir’s documentary is five minutes long and contains footage of Bashir praising Jackson’s parenting skills.

And now, courtesy of the Fox network, there’s news of a Feb. 20 two-hour special to air on the network featuring outtakes from Bashir’s program and an interview with Jackson’s ex-wife and the mother of his two oldest children, Debby Rowe.

If you didn’t see last Thursday’s airing of Bashir’s interview with Jackson, it was a year-long excursion into the private life of the superstar-gone-madman. Jackson subsequently said he felt “more betrayed than perhaps ever before,” according to reports.

We here in the newroom have decided that, faced with an agitated, unbalanced pop star, we would be careful of antagonizing him as well, even if that meant a little fib here and there. Who’s going to say, “Well, Michael, I don’t know. I think you’re a kook and your kids are going to need therapy”?

For another thing, who even needs the commentary offered by Bashir — in which he expresses deep concern over the welfare of the Jackson kids, as well as for that of all the kids who have stayed over at Neverland — to be totally creeped out by the entire scenario?

Even in Peter Pan’s world, there is a scary pirate captain who spends entirely too much time chasing little boys.

The interest in Jackson’s relationships with youngsters stems from a decade-old accusation by one of his young guests that Jackson had touched him inappropriately.

Jackson not only denies it all, but seems absolutely bewildered that anyone would be “ignorant” (Jackson’s word, not mine) enough to think such things.

But then again, he also denies altering his

face, except for two nose jobs which, he said, helped his singing voice.

If you’re sick enough to want to check out the youngster’s deposition against Jackson, go to www.thesmokinggun.com.

QUEEN OF SOUL CAUGHT UP IN ARSON CASE According to Billboard, arson destroyed Aretha Franklin’s $1.8 million mansion in Bloomfield Township, Mich. in October.

Oakland County Prosecutor David Gorcyca said that Franklin is not a suspect.

She fired lawyer Elbert Hatchett, who told her not to make a statement.

PHIL SPECTOR’S MURDER ARREST In a recent article by Corey Moss on MTV’s Web site, producer Phil Spector, recently arrested on murder charges for allegedly shooting actress Lana Clarkson in his mansion, claims that his parents are first cousins, and wonders if that has something to do with his unhappy mental state. The article states that, a month before his arrest, Spector told a British journalist that he was “relatively insane,” and admits to taking medication for schizophrenia. He says he’s not schizo, though, and claims to be bipolar.

He is scheduled for arraignment on March 3.

02>14>03 02>15>03 “Playback” with Tutu Divine

MORE AMMUNITION IN THE DIGITAL MUSIC WARS Since Napster was beaten down by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) last year, record labels have been trying to lure music downloaders away from freebies and get them hooked on subscription music services. Now Pressplay, the subscription service started by Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music Group, has announced deals to distribute music from several independent record labels, including Sub Pop, Palm, Ubiquity and DreamWorks. The move brings the number of selections offered by Pressplay to over 250,000 songs.

A subscription to Pressplay costs $9.95$17.95 per month, still too high for the millions of users downloading from free file-sharing clients like Kazaa and Morpheus.

BY RHONDA JONES AND LISA JORDAN

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B

02>18>03

1 3

TUESDAY NIGHT JAM SESSION

2 0 0 3

Pat Blanchard & Friends No Cover

02>19>03

“Soulcous Groove”

Surrey Tavern

471 Highland Ave. 736-1221

BREATHING LIFE INTO LOLLAPALOOZA Any self-respecting child of the ‘90s remembers Lollapalooza, that traveling music festival that breezed through every summer, toting along such varied acts as Pearl Jam, Ice-T, the Smashing Pumpkins, Devo and more. It’s been six years since Lollapalooza folded, the death knell sounded by critics who felt that the 1997 headliners, Korn and Tool, were too mainstream.

This summer, expect to see Lollapalooza resurrected with Jane’s Addiction (founders and fixtures of the tour), Audioslave, Incubus, Queens of the Stone Age and Jurassic 5 headlining.

Tour dates have yet to be announced.

Life is hectic. Weekends shouldn't have to be. Join Scott Simon for Weekend Edition every Saturday at 8:00 AM on WACG, 90.7 FM. Reclaim your Saturday and hear weekend news, views, and commentary. From gardening tips and film reviews to in-depth news analysis, Peabody Award-winning host Scott Simon eases you into the weekend with a fresh perspective.

Photo of Scott Simon by Lisa Berg

FRANK ZAPPA SUBJECT OF REISSUES In June, keep your eyes peeled for two books about the life of late rocker Frank Zappa, who passed in 1993 of prostate cancer. “Being Frank: My Time With Frank Zappa” by Nigey Lennon was originally released in 1995, and is by a musician and author who maintained a friendship with Zappa during one of his most creative periods. But there is another musician and author who knew him even better. Candy Zappa’s book, “My Brother Was a Mother: A Zappa Family Photo Album,” is set for reissue in June. Little did mom RoseMarie realize that when she hooked up with Italian immigrant Francis Zappa, she would help to change the course of music history.

The two Frank volumes are being released

by California Classics Books.

SURREY TAVERN

MUSIC

47

Call us at (800) 654-3038 or visit us at www.gpb.org for more information about our programming.

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Catch Wax Bean Friday and Saturday at Whiskey Junction.

Thursday, 13th The Bee’s Knees - 12 Tone Lounge Blind Pig - Sabo and the Scorchers Cadillac’s - DJ Eddie B Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford Club Argos - Karaoke Night Continuum - Playa*Listic Thursday Coyote’s - The Rhes Reeves Band D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Fox’s Lair - Karaoke Greene Streets - Men’s Country and Western National Karaoke Contest Joe’s Underground - Pat Blanchard Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Modjeska - Three Six ty, DJ Ryan Mar tin Orange Moon - Spoken Word Poetry, Open Mic Playground - Open Mic Night The Shack - DJ Billy Soul Bar - Shaun Piazza and Friends, the Kilpatrick Project Time Piecez - DJ Dance Par ty Whiskey Junction - DJ Chaos

Friday, 14th Alex’s - Carol Hardwick, Sherman Golden The Bee’s Knees - Love Is All We Need Blind Pig - Shameless Dave, B.B. “Pops” Williams Borders - Emory Bennet, Billy S. Cadillac’s - Liquid Pleasure Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford Club Argos - Valentine’s Day Party with Alicia Kelly Coconuts - DJs Doug and Eric Coliseum - Miss Valentine Pageant Cotton Patch - Pat & Andy Coyote’s - The Rhes Reeves Band Crossroads - Tur tleneck, Deviltown

D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Fox’s Lair - Dennis Hall Greene Streets - Karaoke Highlander - Senatobia Joe’s Underground - John Kolbeck Last Call - Lonely Hear ts Ball, Natural Desire, DJ Richie Rich Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Modjeska - DJ Boriqua Orange Moon - 360, Persof f Bonner The Shack - DJ Buckwheat Soul Bar - ‘80s Night Valentine’s Day Edition Surrey Tavern - Playback with Tutu Divine Villa Europa - Stephen Phillips Whiskey Junction - Wa x Bean, DJ Paul Whiskey Road Oyster Factory - Bogie

Saturday, 15th The Bee’s Knees - Sweet Nuthin’ Saturday Blind Pig - Shameless Dave and the Miracle Whips Borders - Savannah River Grass Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford Club Argos - Miss Argos Sweethear t Pageant with Petite De JonVille Coconuts - DJs Doug and Eric Coliseum - Best Chest Contest Continuum - The Last Man Standing MC Bat tle Cotton Patch - John Kolbeck Coyote’s - The Rhes Reeves Band Crossroads - 420 Outback, Pain in Life D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Five Pines - Sweethearts Dance with The Inhibitors Fox’s Lair - Wayne Capps Greene Streets - Karaoke Hangnail Gallery - Lovefest Joe’s Underground - Black-Eyed Susan

Last Call - Tony Howard, DJ Richie Rich Metro Coffeehouse - Live Af ternoon Bluegrass with Eryn Eubanks and the Fold Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Modjeska - DJ Boriqua Orange Moon - Sweeney The Shack - DJ Buckwheat Soul Bar - Park Bench Trio, El Dorado Deluxe Surrey Tavern - Playback with Tutu Divine Villa Europa - Stephen Phillips Whiskey Junction - Wa x Bean

Sunday, 16th Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford and The Last Bohemian Quar tet Pizza Joint - Jason & Michael The Shack - Karaoke with Buckwheat and Doober Somewhere in Augusta - Pat Blanchard Whiskey Junction - Terry & Jordan

Monday, 17th Coliseum - Q.A.F. Continuum - Monday Madness with Perry Anderson Crossroads - Club Sin Dance Par ty with DJ Chris Greene Streets - Karaoke Joe’s Underground - Keith “Fossill” Gregory The Shack - DJ Billy

Tuesday, 18th Adams Nightclub - Karaoke with Bill Tolber t The Bee’s Knees - Comin’ ‘Round the Bend Classic Country and Bluegrass DJ Coliseum - Tournament Tuesday D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue

continued on page 50

49 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

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Pat Blanchard plays at Joe’s Underground Feb. 13 and jams at Surrey Tavern Feb. 18. continued from page 48 Diamond Express Greene Streets - Karaoke Highlander - Open Mic Night Joe’s Underground - Keith “Fossill” Gregory Metro Coffeehouse - Irish Eyes Are Smiling with Sibin Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock The Shack - DJ Billy Surrey Tavern - Tuesday Night Jam Session with Pat Blanchard and Friends

Wednesday, 19th The Bee’s Knees - Mellow Sounds Supper Club Coliseum - Wet ‘n’ Wild Wednesday Continuum - Open Mic Night Coyote’s - The Rhes Reeves Band Crossroads - The Family Trucksters D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Greene Streets - Women’s Country and Western National Karaoke Contest Joe’s Underground - Mike Baideme Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Playground - Karaoke with Dave Long The Shack - DJ Billy Somewhere in Augusta - John Kolbeck Soul Bar - Live Jazz Surrey Tavern - Soulcous Groove

Upcoming Southern Soul Festival - Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center - Feb. 21 Charlie Brown - Coliseum - Feb. 21 The Gospel Echoes Benefit Concert - Club

Argos - Feb. 21 Jack yl - Crossroads - Feb. 27 Seattle Tribute Band - Crossroads - Feb. 28 Exies - Crossroads - March 15

Elsewhere Bon Jovi, The Goo Goo Dolls - Philips Arena, Atlanta - Feb. 13 Henry Rollins Spoken Word - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta - Feb. 13 King Hippo - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - Feb. 13 Jump, Little Children - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - Feb. 13 Living Legends - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - Feb. 13 Marvin Sease - Macon City Auditorium, Macon, Ga. - Feb. 14 Erykah Badu - The Tabernacle, Atlanta - Feb. 14 Snake Oil Medicine Show - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - Feb. 14 Nile - Masquerade, Atlanta - Feb. 14 Joe Nichols - Cowboys Atlanta, Kennesaw, Ga. Feb. 14 David Allan Coe - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta Feb. 14; Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - Feb. 15 Acoustic Syndicate, Flat Front Tire - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - Feb. 15 Long Beach Short Bus - Masquerade, Atlanta Feb. 15 Charlie Zaa - Dekalb Atlanta Center, Atlanta Feb. 15 Stretch Arm Strong, Burns Out Bright - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - Feb. 16 Elton John - Tabernacle, Atlanta - Feb. 18-19 Juliana Theory - Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - Feb. 18 Home Grown, Riddlin’ Kids - Masquerade, Atlanta - Feb. 19

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Jump, Little Children plays at the Georgia Theatre in Athens Feb. 13.

Bain Mattox - Smith’s Olde Bar, Atlanta - Feb. 19 Mission of Burma - Echo Lounge, Atlanta - Feb. 20 Dirty Dozen Brass Band - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - Feb. 20; Cot ton Club, Atlanta Feb. 21 George Strait - The Arena at Gwinnet t Center, Duluth, Ga. - Feb. 21 Keller Williams - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta Feb. 21 Gary Allan - Cowboys Atlanta, Kennesaw, Ga. Feb. 21 Dave Matthews Cover Band - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - Feb. 21 Susan Tedeschi - Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - Feb. 22 Steve Earle - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta - Feb. 22 Karan Casey - Red Light Cafe, Atlanta - Feb. 22 Afrifest with Ras Kimono, Aju, Edi Kriz Okri Masquerade, Atlanta - Feb. 22 Todd Snider - Tasty World, Athens, Ga. - Feb. 22 Pat Green - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. Feb. 22 Juice, Tishamingo - Smith’s Olde Bar, Atlanta Feb. 22 CKY, Lennon - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - Feb. 22; Uncle Doctor’s, Columbia, S.C. - Feb. 23 Greenwheel - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - Feb. 24 Asylum Street Spankers - Smith’s Olde Bar, Atlanta - Feb. 25 Engelbert Humperdinck - Gaillard Auditorium, Charleston, S.C. - Feb. 26 Double Drive - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - Feb. 27 Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band - The Arena at Gwinnet t Center, Duluth, Ga. - Feb. 28 Clutch - Masquerade, Atlanta - Feb. 28 King Crimson - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta March 1 Vince Gill - Ear thlink Live, Atlanta - March 1

Maroon 5 - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 1 Tim Easton - Red Light Cafe, Atlanta - March 1 Sum 41, No Use For A Name - The Tabernacle, Atlanta - March 2 Further Seems Forever - Cot ton Club, Atlanta March 6 Bill Gaither and Friends - Charlot te Coliseum, Charlot te, N.C. - March 7 The Smiling Assassins - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta - March 8 Les Nubians - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 8 Smiling Assassins - Variet y Playhouse, Atlanta - March 8; Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. March 11 Grenadier Guards - Fox Theatre, Atlanta March 9 Yanni - Philips Arena, Atlanta - March 11 Stereomud, Saliva, Breaking Benjamin - Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - March 13 Project/Object - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta March 21 Sister Hazel, Indigo Girls, Edwin McCain Ear thlink Live, Atlanta - March 22 Sigur Ros - Tabernacle, Atlanta - March 27 Many tickets are available through TicketMaster outlets, by calling 828-7700, or online at w w w.ticketmaster.com. Tickets may also be available through Tix Online by calling 278-4TIX or online at w w w.tixonline.com. Night Life listings are subject to change without notice.

Deadline for inclusion in Night Life calendar is Tuesday at 4 p.m. Contact Rhonda Jones or Lisa Jordan by calling 738-1142, fa xing 736-0443 or e-mailing to rhonda_jones@metspirit.com or lisa_jordan@metspirit.com.

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arold Camping, the host of a moderately prominent international Christian radio call-in show, recently told his listeners that Satan has taken over “all” churches and that people of faith should do their worshipping elsewhere. Apparently, pastors all over the United States are outraged, with some attributing drops in attendance (and contributions) to Camping, whose Oakland, Calif.-based organization reported donations of $12 million in 2000.

• Among the rap lyrics penned by condemned murderer John Taylor, 38 (convicted of killing five New York City Wendy’s employees in a 2000 robbery), during his two days on the lam before his arrest (and revealed by prosecutors in January) (Taylor’s spelling): “so now you know how I go / They got my face on the worlds most wanted show / on chanel five showing live / you’ll think I’m famous / I’m airing world wide / I’m a stick up kid so swift you see / in and out like 1 2 3 / I said give me the doe you say no, no? / Is it no you said stick some lead to your head / guess what punk now your dead / with all that blood bursting out your Head.” Taylor now says he’s sorry for the killings.

Reader’s Choice • If it hadn’t been for the metal detector at the Regina, Saskatchewan, airport, the woman might still wonder why her stomach pains, following June 2002 surgery, were persisting. When the detector relentlessly beeped but no metal could be found on her, she scheduled an X-ray and discovered that a 12-inch-long surgical retractor had been left inside. (A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in January estimated that 1,500 items were left inside surgery patients in 2001.)

By 2008, An Olympic Sport • Matthew and Elaine Sweetapple recently invented a “game of skill, power, speed and endurance,” consisting of a biodegradable ball (smaller than a golf ball) placed in a urinal, to be disintegrated by a urinator (either alone or in “competition”). The product, Peeball, was launched for sale (equivalent of $1.70) late in 2002 by Great Britain’s Prostate Cancer Charity, which hopes the novelty will call attention to its cause, in that players with prostate problems are typically poor at the game. Player strategies, basically, are (1) direct stream and (2) intermittent stream.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit • Two British zoologists and a psychologist started a business consulting firm in November to teach executives to handle risk based on lessons from animal behavior. Founders Alex Kacelnik and Sir John Krebs (University of Oxford) said it was

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• More people a little too chummy with animals: In November 2002, the Appeals Court of Massachusetts rejected a lawsuit

by Robert and Anne Krasnecky of Ware, Mass., for “loss of companionship” of their seven pet sheep, which were killed by a neighbor’s dog. The court said “companionship” in the law referred only to humans, even though the Krasneckys considered the sheep their “babies,” spent six or seven hours a day with them, gave them names, celebrated their birthdays with special food and balloons, baked snacks for them, bottle-fed them, and allowed them the run of their house.

The District of Calamity • In January, a 72-year-old woman was found dead in her Washington, D.C., apartment the day after a police officer had searched the apartment and failed to notice the woman’s leg sticking out from underneath a bed. (Two months earlier, D.C. paramedics had bagged the apparently dead body of a 49-year-old woman, but later, three morgue employees said they detected a slight pulse; however, she died for real a few minutes later.) On another matter, The Washington Post reported in October that the District’s payroll office, having already spent $20 million on a new computer system that never worked, had just spent another $14 million to transfer all the records back to the old, antiquated system, which led the Post to speculate that the squandered $34 million is probably more than the entire D.C. jail population combined had ever stolen.

— Chuck Shepherd © United press Syndicate

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51 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

Brezsny's Free Will Astrology ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Of all the acts of intimate connection you should perpetrate with a wide-open heart in the coming week, I suggest you put one near the top of the list.

Memorize the following lines, and say them to a soul friend who most appreciates extravagant expressions of affection: “I love you more than it’s possible to love anyone. I love you more than love itself. I love you more than you love yourself. I love you more than God loves you. I love you more than anyone has ever loved anyone in the history of the universe.

In fact, I love you more than I love you.” (P.S. But don’t, Aries, under any circumstances, say this: “I love you more than you love me.”)

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Some people pigeonhole Taurus as a staid, gentle sign, but I know you Bulls are capable of volcanic passion. It’s true that your vivid appreciation of life’s gorgeous mysteries is sometimes muted by your devotion to duty. That’s why you should regularly squeeze outbreaks of sheer ardor into your schedule — this week, for example. I dare you to create a moment when it will be appropriate for you to utter these words: “The air I breathe in a room empty of you is unhealthy. The merest whisper of your name awakes in me a shuddering sixth sense. I am longing for a kiss that makes time stand still.” (The preceding testimony is a blend of words from Edgar Allan Poe, Pamela Moore and John Keats.)

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Memorize the lines below, which were written by George Bernard Shaw, and deliver them to the one with whom you’d most like to make beautiful music together. If there is no human you feel moved to address so tenderly, speak them to a pet, muse, angel or yourself. “You are my inspiration and my folly. You are my light across the sea, my million nameless joys, and my day’s wage. You are my divinity, my madness, my selfishness, my transfiguration and purification. You are my rap-

x

scallionly fellow vagabond, my tempter and star. I want you.”

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

It’s easier for us Cancerians to love than to be loved. We feel more comfortable giving than taking. In fact, we’re even susceptible to believing that we’re powerful when we’re nurturing others and weak when we’re being nurtured. Yet the best astrologers agree that until we learn to receive love, we can’t fulfill our life’s mission. In the coming week, I urge you to practice this art with all your fierce and vulnerable heart. And then practice and practice and practice some more.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

Do you understand that you can actually listen a person’s soul into existence? Your receptive interest in the inner life of those you care for can awaken their dormant powers. The teacher Richard Moss says, “The greatest gift you can give another is the purity of your attention.” I bring this up, Leo, because you’re now at the peak of your potential to cultivate more potent listening skills.

Uncoincidentally, you’re also in prime time to ripen your mastery of intimate communion. Take philosopher Paul Tillich’s advice with you everywhere you go: “The first duty of love is to listen.”

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

After careful meditation on your current astrological omens, I’ve decided on this assignment: Memorize the following lines, borrowed from a poem by Andrew Varnon, and say them to the person whose destiny needs to be woven more closely together with yours. “Be my ruckus, my perfect non sequitur. Be my circuit-breaker, my lengthening shadows at dusk, my nest of pine needles, my second-story window. Be my if-you-stare-longenough-you’ll-see. Be my subatomic particle. Be my backbeat, my key of C minor, my surly apostle, my scandalous repartee, my maximum payload. Be my simmering, seething, flickering, radiating, shimmering and undulating.”

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

“Any thought that is not filled with love seems unholy,” observed French writer Andre Gide. That’s a pretty high standard, I know, but I advise you to do your best to meet it in the coming week; it’s the most practical thing you can do to ensure your success. No matter what situation comes up, you’ll thrive as long as you ask yourself, “How can I bring more love into the mix?” Now please recite these words from Leo Tolstoy as if they were your own: “Love is life. All, everything that I understand, I understand only because I love. Everything is, everything exists, only because I love.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

“One should always be in love,” said Oscar Wilde.

While I heartily agree, I must also note that it’s nearly impossible to pull off. To do so, you have to acquire a number of difficult skills, the most crucial of which is an ability to elude the numbing trance of daily routine. Fortunately for you Scorpios, you are best equipped, of all the signs, to sustain the heroic ingenuity necessary to dwell permanently in the blessed torment of love. And in the weeks to come, your mastery is primed to ripen dramatically.

Keep this thought as your warning beacon: “The most dire disaster in love is the death of the imagination,” said George Meredith.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Want to achieve righteous attunement with cosmic forces? Then cast a love spell on yourself. To assist you, I offer Marge Piercy’s poem, “The Real Hearth.” Read it aloud three times and you’ll uncoil a surge of sweet magic from your mysterious depths. “Let’s heat up the night to a boil. Let’s cook every drop of liquid out of our flesh till we sizzle, not a drop of come left. We are pots on too high a flame. Our insides char and flake dark like sinister snow idling down. We breathe out smoke. We die out and sleep covers us in ashes. We lie without dreaming, empty as clean grates. Yet we wake rebuilt, clattering and hungry as waterfalls leaping off, rushing into the day, roaring our bright intentions. It is the old riddle in the Yiddish song, what can burn and not burn up, a passion that gives birth to itself every day.”

informally 5 “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” screenwriter 9 Office correspondence 14 Gas’s partner: Abbr.

15 1958 Pulitzer winner 16 Rod Stewart’s ex 17 Tropical tuber 18 Botch 19 Wrap up 20 It may allow you to make an entrance 22 Single-named supermodel 23 Woody Guthrie’s “I Ain’t ___ Home” 24 Football Hall-ofFamer Ford

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pass on them: Abbr.

28 Suffix with verb 29 “___ there?”

33 Update a factory 35 Pipe problem 37 Data 38 Focus of an interplanetary search 42 It may be abstract 43 Remove roughly 44 Took pains 46 In stitches 47 South-of-theborder title: Abbr.

50 Go for the bronze?

51 Some speeding vehicles’ destinations, briefly 53 Drive forward 55 Ordination, e.g.

L O G E

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Of the many brazen and comical acts of love you could possibly carry out this week, here’s one you should strongly consider. Memorize the following lines, which were lifted from Bridge’s and Bella’s website at www.members.tripod.com/~perfectcouple/, and speak them dramatically to a cute rascal — preferably one whose destiny needs to be woven more closely together with yours. “I love you more than Madonna loves column inches. I love you more than Bill Gates loves loopholes in anti-trust law. I love you more than Jerry Springer loves trailer-park residents with bizarre stories and pugilistic attitudes. I love you more than Bob Hope loves not being dead. I love you more than Barbara Hershey loves collagen. I love you more than Alan Greenspan loves how the economy fluctuates whenever he scratches his butt.”

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

The first part of this week’s meditation comes from Irish poet William Butler Yeats: “Love is the crooked thing,/ There is nobody wise enough/ To find out all that is in it,/ For he would be thinking of love/ Till the stars had run away/ And the shadows eaten the moon.” Now here’s the second half of your meditation, courtesy of me: Though love is the crooked thing and no one’s wise to find out all that’s in it, you’re temporarily wise enough to figure out maybe 70 percent of it.

And that’s why you have cosmic permission and poetic license to meditate on the arts of love as if you had all the time in the world to do nothing but that.

— © Rob Brezsny You Can Call Rob Brezsny, day or night, for your Expanded Weekly Horoscope

1-900-950-7700

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE P A T H S

I hope you make a priority. Ask an imaginative soul friend to work together with you in dreaming up fresh new pleasures. Brainstorm wildly about how you can feel good in ways you’ve never imagined before. Do research on the reports that other pioneers of delight have left behind. Open your minds as wide as your hearts as you experiment with the holy art of play.

Of the many devotional and reverent acts you should carry out in the coming week, here are a few

26 Some people

1 Diagnostic data,

New York Times Crossword Puzzle

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L C L M A O M E L Y E T O D E E R T O I S R E I E E E E M G E L S W E T W I N E D I T L T A T H I

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57 Comeback,

maybe 61 High hat 62 December 13th, e.g.

63 Act like an ass 64 Like some skies 65 They can get rough 66 “___ cost you!”

67 Halfhearted 68 Vigorous 69 Misses DOWN “C’mon!”

Los ___ Dress down Pooh-pooh Ste. Jeanne ___ Mexican water One who has it coming?

8 Tennis great who never won Wimbledon 9 Devil dog 10 Ca, Ga or Pa 11 Tubes on a plate 12 Intermittently 13 Aphid’s sustenance 21 Spa handout 25 Heretofore 27 Member of the rose family 30 Revealing top 31 Dust Bowl figure 32 No quick reads 34 Feature of the Earth 35 NBC host 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

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$1.99 per minute • 18 & over • Touchtone phone required • C/S 612-373-9785 • www.freewillastrology.com/

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Puzzle by Elizabeth C. Gorski

36 “American

Gigolo” star

45 Didn’t go

straight 47 Ancient military 38 Part of V.M.I.: hub Abbr.

48 Amnesiac’s lack 39 Stamp and sign, 49 Univalent perhaps chemical groups 40 “Louder!”

52 Cager’s favorite sound 41 Cover-up in 54 Head honcho 47-Down

56 Actress Polo 58 Guess 59 Navy

commando

60 “___ est percipi”

(old Latin motto)

61 Yoga class need

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his girl I’m seeing has a pattern of getting close to me, then pulling back. She blames her “control issues,” saying she’s very independent and doesn’t want to make decisions as part of a couple.

She really likes me, but doesn’t want a serious relationship. The thing is, neither do I — I just like being with her. I did do nice things for her — left wine on her doorstep when she had a bad day, made CDs for her with personalized labels and poetry I wrote for her inside. She freaked. I eventually convinced her I was just trying to be nice. Recently, I gave her some paper characters — this Japanese stuff she likes — plus a scarf and stupid little toys. Her response: “More gifts?” I said it was no biggie for me. She left me a message that she loved every thing I gave her, but also canceled our date for that evening. We haven’t seen each other since. I’m so frustrated. Why is it so hard to spend time with a girl I know likes me and likes being with me?

—Dissed Boy’s Life You need to decide what kind of movie you’re making before you star t trucking in all the props. You’re calling this a buddy movie, yes? Following classic buddy movie form, you star t with one tough guy (maybe Chuck Norris, if he isn’t already cast in something weepy with Meg Ryan or Meryl Streep). You pair him with another tough guy (Stallone, perhaps, if Ving Rhames is busy playing Queen Elizabeth). Shot number one: Chuck tosses Sly pink glit ter lip gloss on a pink glit ter plastic key chain — all the ammunition a soldier of for tune needs to make it through a gauntlet of cliquish 11-year-old girls.

In other words, the confusion here seems pret ty straight forward. You told her you were cool being a bud “with benefits,” then showed her what you meant by treating her just like the rest of your buddies. You know — like when your big, hairy guy buddies lose at poker, how you cheer them up by making them CDs with personalized labels, and tucking poetry just for them inside: “Oh, man, when you lose it all, it’s nice to know you have a friend you can call. Clean my toilets and mop my floors, and I’ll see you’ll rarely sleep outdoors.”

Why bother with a woman who’s so dead-

set against let ting love into her life that she practically accessorizes with keep-away signs and a por table moat? Well, because you’d sell both kidneys to, uh ... spend time with her.

But, can you find your way back into the picture? Maybe — if you sneak in the service entrance. Bring a previously missing element: restraint. Aside from a speech about how lit tle you want a “real” relationship, the only sound this girl should hear is the sound of your jets being cooled — a sound which bears no resemblance to the sound of stupid lit tle toys being wrapped. Treat her like one of the guys, except when you’re unwrapping her. Don’t give her so much as a toothpick in a restaurant. Be unavailable: “Tonight? Sorry ... have to wash my hair and wa x my legs.”

Ease her fear that she’ll get mired in gooey romance, and she might stick around ... long enough to accidentally get stuck on you. It’s a small price to pay — making like you’re shooting a buddy action-adventure — to dupe her into the soggy English romance you swear you don’t want: Shot number one: Dame Maggie Smith snif fles, “Oh, do hand me my hanky, dear. It’s tucked just there, under your Uzi.”

My boyfriend is not only my best friend, he treats me like a queen. The problem is, it’s not love anymore, not for me. He’s preparing a huge dinner for our one-year anniversary. Should I try to make it work, at least through our anniversary dinner?

—Over and Almost Out Just because the guy treats you like a queen doesn’t mean he’s looking to be treated like one of your subjects. Let’s see ... not only do you plan to leave him, you plan to leave him with a big pile of dir ty dishes. Sweet! Not only that, you’ll leave him feeling really stupid for believing all your “me, too” stuf f. (I guess you were planning on crossing your fingers under the table.) A kinder, gentler idea is crossing the anniversary dinner of f the agenda. There’s a right time to tell a guy how you (don’t) feel, and it’s the moment the news bounces into your tiara. He won’t get to toast “happily ever 20 minutes from now” with you, but this story still has a happy ending ... of sor ts: At least he didn’t treat you like a praying mantis, since girl mantises have a bad habit of biting of f boy mantises’ heads af ter sex. Anniversary or no anniversary.

— © 2003, Amy Alkon

Got A Problem?

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es 3/14/03 • Spa/Clinical Facials • Waxing • Peels/Glycolic • Botox Treatments Physician on Staff All Major Credit Cards Accepted • Microdermabrasion • Massage 1019 Beverly Heights Drive

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$10 OFF FACIALS

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706/829-2676

Valentine’s Sp ecial

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Dead Bodies Wanted

We want your dead junk or scrap car bodies.

We tow away and for some we pay.

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Is Your Future In Your Hands?

It Can Be ... at AUGUSTA SCHOOL OF MASSAGE You can have a rewarding career in Massage Therapy in only 6 months!

733-2040

Call Now! Classes Start March 3rd!

Become a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist.

Ask how you can save between $250 and $500 on Tuition

Interest Free Payment Plans Available Financing by Key Bank (key.com) Approved for VA Education Benefits

3512 1/2 Wheeler Road • Augusta, GA 30909 Located Near Target & the Family Y

706-733-2603

www.ColiseumAugusta.com

MARLBORO STATION

Argos welcomes Gay, TVTS, BDSM, Bi, Swingers & all other open minded patrons.

Call us at (706) 481-8829 1923 Walton Way across from Ming Wah email us at ClubArgos@AOL.Com

Name___________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________ DOB___________Email___________________________________ $1 off Admission w/ coupon

Travel

141 Marlboro Station, Aiken • 803-644-6485

www.marlboro.4mg.net

Talk Line

Miscellaneous For Sale ft

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Wheels

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RENT A GIRLFRIEND Maid Service, Home Management For Single Professionals.

Cleaning, Cooking, Errands, Petsit ting, Organizing.

Will Negotiate Schedule, Call 706-399-4583 (3/13#7968)

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Services

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$5.00 OFF, call 803-441-0001

• G i ft Ce r t if i ca te s te

Fri & Sat. No Cover Before 10 p.m.

1632 Walton Way • Augusta, GA

Thursday - Karaoke Night Friday - Club Argos welcomes the hot, fiery, electric talent of Alicia Kelly for a Valentine’s Day Party show you are sure not to forget. Alicia comes from Backstreet & Berkharts, Atlanta and $10 D&D Saturday - The judges are ready and the competition is fierce for the first annual Miss Argos Sweetheart Pageant. Come see 10 contestants battle it out for the Argos Valentine Pageant Crown & $300 in cash.

Hosted by Miss Petite De JonVille. Call ahead to reserve a table. Free jello shots in the tower.

UPCOMING EVENTS February 21st - The Gospel echoes perform for a special benefit for the Church of our Redeemer.

***HOT VEGAS GIRLS*** LIVE 1-ON-1 XXX FREE to BROWSE 1-702-216-3500 LOW AS .66¢/MIN. 1-900-420-0420 Ex t. 165 $2.95/min. 18+ (02/13#7902)

Massage Therapy

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Metropolitan Community Church of Our Redeemer A Christian Church reaching to all: including Gay, Lesbian, and Transgendered Christians.

Meeting at 311 Seventh Street, 11 am and 7 pm each Sunday. 722-6454 MCCAugusta@aol.com www.mccoor.com

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Religion

Hot Dog Buffet $2.99

Open Mon-Fri 7pm-3am Sat 7pm-2:30am

Fri, Sat & Sun 18 to Party • 21 to Drink

Professional Therapeutic Massage Prevention & Treatment Sciatica, Back, Neck, Hip, Knee, Ankle, Shoulder, Whiplash, Hamstrings, Tennis Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Repetitive Use Injury Therapy 706-592-9450.

(02/13#8005)

Club Argos

& the Tower of Argos The Friendliest Alternative Bar in the CSRA

Drink Specials: Wed - $7 Wet N' Wild Fri & Sat - $9 All You Can Drink Well/Liquor/Draft Sat - $2 Bud/Bud Light

Live Entertainment

Open from 9 a.m. til 9 p.m.

Call (706) 733-5851

BURY THOSE HABITS BEFORE THEY BURY YOU!

Friday, 2/14 13TH ANNUAL MISS VALENTINE’S DAY PAGEANT Saturday, 2/15 BEST CHEST CONTEST Friday, 2/21 CHARLIE BROWN Feb. 28 - Mar. 1 MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION

Your Party Station

341 S. Belair Rd.

Smoking Lose Weight

Stop

Medical Research If you have chronic headaches, regardless of severity, you may be eligible for admission to a non-drug VA and MCG study. Biofeedback or relaxation treatments are provided at no cost, and subjects may receive a fee for completing study requirements.

Please call (706) 733-0188, extension 2678, for additional information. (03/06#7955)

R E A D I N G S

Mrs. Graham, Psychic Reader, Advises on all affairs of life, such as love, marriage, and business. She tells your past, present and future. Mrs. Graham does palm, tarot card, and crystal readings. She specializes in relationships and reuniting loved ones.

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WOLFF TANNING BEDS Payments From $25/month FREE Color Catolog Call Today 1-800-842-1310 www.np.etstan.com (03/27#7924)

C A R D

SPECIAL READINGS WITH WITH CARD

Bhakti Brown, RYT

SALON Great location!

Stylist Needed with license & clientele booth rent For more info call A.J. Home: 706-793-2561 Pager: 803-441-4403 (02/13#7986)

BUY FACTORY DIRECT

Hot High Energy Dance Music And Laser Light Show

Classes/Private Classes

Apply in person Mon-Thu 2-4 PM. 277 Rober t C. Daniel Parkway EOE. (2/13/#8003)

Equipment

MRS. GRAHAM

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THE COLISEUM

READINGS BY

INTEGRAL YOGA

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Alt. Lifestyles

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Stool Pigeons Coop and Grill:

F Hiring PM Servers and Hosts.

E B Some experience and great references required.

Call 738-1142 to place your Classified ad today!

Mind, Body & Spirit

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Porsche Service Sign $50.00 service sign from dealership 11”X14” pic available.

PlatinumPorscheX@aol.com (04/17#8007) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Yearbooks: Mercer (The Cauldron) 1934 & 35; University of Richmond (The Web) 1948 & 49; John Marshall High 1945 Richmond, Virginia (Marsallite) $49 each 733-7735 (04/10#8001) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Sony 5-disc CD carousel w/remote, works great, $75. 869-8931 (04/10#8000) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magna Flip 400 Boys Bicycle Ages 9 - 13 $55/OBO 706-869-8888 (04/10#7999) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Scott 6.75HP Lawnmower (John Deere) GC with bagger $60.00/OBO 706-869-8888 (04/10#7998) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Full Size Mattress & Box Spring. Excellent conditiion, like new, $100.00 Call after 5 pm, 868-1384 (04/10#7997) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Turntable - Sony professional direct drive serve controlled motor. Heavy base. Head and cartridge solid state with speed adjuster. $100.00 803-649-6658 (04/10#7996) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 36” Metal full glass ex terior French Door New $95.00 706-541-0656 (04/10#7995) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mahogany End Tables, nice condition been in family for years $70 each. 706-444-8619 (03/27#7973) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Golf Clubs-Taylor Made irons super steel. Rifle shafts reg. flex 3-PW $199, 706-650-7487 (03/27#7972) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– EMACHINES 333cs Computer, keyboard, mouse, speakers, stand. $250 OBO! Call 7962769 after 5pm. (03/27#7971) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Nordic Track, Excellent condition. Comes with video tape and info. $65.00 Small exercise cycle use sit ting in chair, $25.00. 855-5521 (03/27#7970) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Outdoor Furniture, Chase, 3 cushion set te, and chair, sell for $50.00. Cocktail Table, four pedistal base in gold with heavy glass top sell for $75.00, Call 803-649-6658 (03/20#7963)

Miscellaneous For Sale Computer Workcenter By Sauder with doors.

Holds monitor, CPU., printer, etc. New $499.00 sell for $100.00, Call 803-649-6658 (03/20#7962) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Luxman Phono Preamp was $600 sell $90.

AudioSource SS Five surround sound processor was $200 sell $50.00. Call 706-210-4884.

(03/20#7961) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Computer - 166MHZ Pentium-Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, 56k Modem. Good Condition and internet ready. $250.00, Call Nancy at 803641-0446 (03/13#7951) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Golf Clubs: Biggest Big Ber tha, regular graphite, 10°, $150.00; Adams GT-363 Titanium, regular graphite, 10°, $100.00; Steelhead Plus 7-wood, graphite $90.00; Call Les 860-3387 (03/13#7951) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Mounted Deer Head and shoulder 8 point,Very Good Condition $145.00 706-541-0656 (03/13#7950) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Book: Black West Documentary, Pictorial History, 9 & 10 Calvary Buffalo Soldier & more $300, OBO Call, C. Allen 706-560-9782 (03/06#7946) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Commercial Freezer, 1 year old , double door, all stainless steel. $800.00 OBO Barstools 803594-9594 (03/06#7942) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Sears Lawn Tractor L.T. 1000 - 21 Horsepower 46”-cut Used 4 Months - Like New - Original New Price $1,400.00 - Now Only $900.00 OBO. 706-836-3082 (02/27#7941) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Midwest Ferret Cage, 4 ft. tall. 3 Levels. Great Condition. $125.00. 2 Water bot tles are free with cage. Retails for $189.99. Call 706-8540231 (02/20#7932) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Queen Anne Style Dining Room Group, Cherry finish, table, 6 chairs, and china cabinet. $250.00, Call 706-836-3120 (02/13#7927)

55 M E T R O S P I R I T

To become a member, call 1-888-223-7044 To listen and respond to ads, call 1-900-226-8908 Calls cost $1.99 per min., Must be 18+.

,call 1-866-832-4685

To respond to ads using a TWO PIECES OF A PUZZLE Full-figured, very attractive, independent woman, 31, 5’2”, seeks someone special to spend time with. You: honest, fun-loving, varied interests. ☎685405 STRONG WILL SBF, 45, outgoing, attractive, youthful, enjoys writing, music, traveling. Seeking mature, strong-willed SBM, 35-48, for friendship. ☎965893 POSITION AVAILABLE! Mother of two lovely daughters, 34, employed with the Board of Education, seeks SW/HM, 33-48, to begin with friendship and possibly evolve into an LTR. ☎651992 KIND-HEARTED, REAL Petite, green-eyed SWC mother, 39, Scorpio, N/S, seeks WM, 33-45, N/S, to build a love that lasts a lifetime. ☎648419 AN AUTUMN SPECIAL Hard-working WF, 38, 5’4”, 100lbs, blonde/brown, enjoys biking, watersports, cooking, and travel. Seeking WM, 35-50, for possible LTR. ☎965904 IN SEARCH OF MY SOULMATE He must be a tall (5’10”-6’4”), Christian man, 42-55, N/S, who is honest, faithful, devoted and lively. I am a SBPF, 5’6”, 150lbs, and looking for LTR. ☎641005 TAKE IT SLOW SWF, 49, 5’6”, reddish/blonde hair, outgoing personality, wants to build a serious relationship with a SWM. ☎642309 SENSE OF HUMOR REQUIRED SF, 33, 5’, full-figured, cocoa complexion, looking for friendship leading to relationship with SM, 25-40, who doesn’t play games. ☎579505 MAKE MY HEART LAUGH SBF, 22, 5’8”, 155lbs, part-time student, seeks sensual, kind man with a great heart, for movies, dining out, and open-minded conversation. ☎565120 SEEKS GENTLEMAN SWF, 29, 5’11”, 145lbs, enjoys outdoors, dining, movies, bowling and quiet evenings at home. Seeking honest SM, 29-39, for LTR. ☎550425 ARE YOU THE ONE? College educated SWF, early 40s, 5’6”, 136lbs, extroverted, enjoys camping, country living, animals, movies, traveling.

Seeking same in SWM, 40-50, similar interests. ☎965910 WAITING TO HAPPEN DWF, 45, 5’4”, brown/green, likes sports, music, dining out. Seeking serious, honest, hardworking SWM, 40-55. ☎965902

We Purchase Fine Swiss Watches, Estate Jewelry and Diamonds.

Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm 2635 Washington Road | Augusta, Georgia 30904 | 706.738.7777 www.windsorjewelers.net GOOD-HEARTED DWF, 61, 5’9”, honest, neat in appearance, with a good sense of humor. Seeking WM, 60-70, who’s honest and caring. ☎574264

GET IN TOUCH WITH ME SM, 21, 6’3’’, athletic build, student, loves movies, clubs, church. Seeking compassionate, down-to-earth, fun woman. ☎861556 SHOW ME YOUR SMILE SM, 44, enjoys kayaking, cooking, art, biking, exercise, outdoors. Looking for a female, 34-50, who has the same kinds of interests. ☎858979 LET’S DO LUNCH SBM, 28, Leo, homeowner, entrepreneur, attractive, seeks friendship with average, every day woman, 20-40. Have your heart talk to mine. ☎270867 TRUE FRIENDSHIP Handsome SBM, 40, with a compassionate nature, seeks a S/DBF, 43-50, with the same qualities for a passionate relationship. ☎200917 IF YOU’RE READING THIS... why not give me a call? SWCM, 19, 6’, 185lbs, brown/blue, relaxed attitude, Capricorn, N/S, seeks WF, 19-25, N/S, for possible LTR. ☎938173

OLD-FASHIONED GUY SHM, 34, 5’4”, 170lbs, Virgo, N/S, writes and loves country western music, helping the homeless, church. Seeking SHF, 32-36, N/S, with similar interests. ☎835306 ARE YOU LONESOME? SM, 37, 6’5’’, 350lbs, would like to meet a nice female, 18-40, to get to know first. Let’s see where this leads! ☎780940 SINGLE TOO LONG SWM, 35, 5’10”, curly/hazel, in good shape, loves kids, cooking, movies, animals.

Seeking WF, 25-42, fun and witty. ☎945669 MY DEMANDS ARE SIMPLE SBM, 34, seeks a relationship with a faithful and honest BF, 28-39, smoker, for an honest relationship. ☎949160 IT TAKES TWO SBM, 33, Gemini, N/S, enjoys art, jazz, classical music, hiphop. Seeking SBF, 2343, for shared interests in music, life, and happiness. ☎941377 LET’S MAKE A CONNECTION Laid-back, easygoing, employed SBM, 48, seeks similar SB/WF, 30-60, into music, dining out, spending quality time together.

There’s no need to be lonely! ☎919786 A REAL MAN Handsome SBM, 39, compassionate, financially secure, seeks romantic, attractive, compassionate BF, 21-45, for romantic dinners, movies, walks along the beach, true friendship, LTR. ☎920361 LOOK ME UP Well-educated, professional SWM, 45, no children, never married, enjoys boating, fishing, camping and exploring life. Seeking SF, with similar interests, for fun and friendship. ☎898023

Stud Finder YOU HAVE 6 NEW MATCHES

BE HONEST SF, 60, enjoys good conversations, going to Church, yard sales, music. Seeking SM, 5070, N/S, likes to go to Church. ☎965856 OLD-FASHIONED GIRL SWF, 34, attractive, blonde, with good morals and values, Leo, N/S, enjoys nature, cooking, animals, movies, and home life.

Desiring marriage-minded, family-oriented WM, 32-45. ☎261032 LEO SBF, 31, wants to share quality time with a man who loves movies, dining out, quiet times, for friendship. ☎202217 GIVE ME A JINGLE SBF, 46, is loving, kind and sweet, mature at every beat, can weave anything and loves to sing. Want to sing with her? ☎200842 A GOOD-HEARTED WOMAN Honest SWF, 5’4”, long dark brown/hazel, would like to meet a trustworthy SWM for a good, honest, open relationship. I smoker, so another smoker is preferred. Grovetown. ☎111411 BE MY FRIEND Attractive SWF, 29, 5’7”, 129lbs, brown/ brown, N/S, no kids, never married, seeks SWM, 20-37, in shape, friendship first, possible LTR. ☎945103 THE LONG RUN SBF, 43, single parent, health service technician, Capricorn, N/S, loves basketball.

Seeking BM, 37-47, N/S, for friendship, love, and beyond. ☎872160 NO GAMES PLEASE DWF, 33, 5’10”, full-figured, brown/hazel, self-employed mother of three, seeks WM, 25-45, honest, faithful, devoted, for fun, friendship, LTR. ☎680330 TABLE FOR TWO SWF, 57, 5’4”, blond/green, easygoing, outgoing, enjoys cooking, fishing, reading, NASCAR. Seeking honest, respectful S/DWM, 57-65. ☎965851 HONESTY IS KEY DWF, 38, mother of two/homemaker, loves Bon Jovi, dining out, quiet time at home.

Seeking honest, sincere SWM, 38-45.

Could it be you? ☎910404 TRUE: One is a lonely number. DWF, no children, self-supporting, my physical appearance won’t embarrass you, retired and seeking a loving, truthful, reliable man, 50-75. ☎896701 SWEET AND SINGLE SBF, 30, Scorpio, N/S, student, enjoys quality time, movies, dining out, quiet times.

Seeking friendship with SBM, 29-43, for possible LTR. ☎890152 TIRED OF BEING ALONE SWF, 49, 5’9”, 164lbs, Cancer, N/S, social drinker, mother of one, enjoys music, dining out, reading. Seeking SWM, 44-59, N/S, for LTR. ☎890570 SERIOUS ABOUT LIFE SBCF, 50, 165lbs, Scorpio, N/S, churchgoer, mother of one, seeks outgoing, christian SBM, 50-60, N/S, with good heart, who is serious, for LTR. ☎885036 GOOD GIRL Attractive SWF, 38, 5’4”, 145lbs, blonde/ hazel, N/S, Pisces, enjoys outdoors.

Seeking tall SWM, 30-42. ☎864247 BEACH BUM SBF, 31, with bachelor’s degree in communications, Taurus, N/S, loves dining out, movies, working out, and reading. Seeking man, 26-36. ☎869451

ARE YOU SINCERE? SF, 28, blond/blue, enjoys the gym, time with family and friends. Looking for an honest guy, 26-35, who is not into games. ☎857530 A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN... inside and out. SBF, 26, 5’10’’, light complexion, enjoys movies, music, just having a good time. Seeking honest, sincere man for LTR. ☎861401 SINCERE BEAUTY Sophisticated SBCF, 23, 5’2”, 140lbs, interested in seeking educated, independent, employed SBM, 23-30, long walks, stimulating conversation, friendship, dating, more. ☎849311 GENUINE GEMINI Sweet SWF, 21, 6’, in medical field, enjoys Nascar, long walks. Seeking tall SWM, 2535, with similar interests. Friendship first, possible LTR. ☎848654 I LIKE LIFE Single mom, 32, looking for a man with a vibrant personality and a love for living. ☎844138 I’LL WRITE YOU A POEM! SF, 25, 5’4’’, 150lbs, Virgo, enjoys reading, cooking, music, movies. Seeking a man who likes to try new things. ☎841437 OLD-FASHIONED VALUES Honest, relaxed, christian SBF, 56, Aries, N/S, enjoys cooking, dining out, quiet times at home. Seeking marriage-minded, financially secure SBM, 50-56, N/S, for LTR. ☎829149 WILLING TO MAKE TIME Busy, hard-working SBF, 31, nurse, mother of one, Taurus, N/S, enjoys traveling, walks, shopping. Seeking SBM, 31-39, N/S, for LTR. ☎836074 TAKE A CHANCE Laid-back SF, 30, enjoys dining in/out, going to the movies, church activities.

Seeking SM, secure in himself to share those things. ☎767576 BRAINS & BEAUTY Spirited executive SBF, 41, 5’8”, 138lbs, Gemini, enjoys dancing, dining, intellectual conversation, laughter, picnics, adventures.

Seeking humorous, classy gentleman, 3545, with kindred spirit. ☎751454 SKATE, RIDE, BOWL, ETC. African-American mom, 23, 5’, 159lbs, mother of two, currently in school, looking for honest, trustful family-man, 20s-30s, who’ll give his 100%. ☎751642 I’M YOUR VENUS SWF, 44 (looks younger), 5’, blonde/blue, with a full-figure, seeks HM, 5’5”-6’, who is secure. ☎747133 WORK OF ART Voluptuous SBF, 28, loves fishing, swimming, cooking. Looking for a man with the same passions. ☎747775 IMPORT FROM EUROPE This foreign born SWF, 40, Aries, N/S, seeks a fine BM, 35-50, smoker, for friendship and dating. ☎744559 ATTENTION... your miracle date is in Augusta. SF seeks military male, 28-50, with good qualities and values. Children ok, race open. ☎732101 COMPANIONSHIP DWF, 48, enjoys antiquing, travel, dining out, movies and more. Seeking DWM, 4858, for loving, tender relationship. ☎732056 AQUARIUS HERE SWF, 18, brown/brown, loves, reading, travel, movies, outdoors. Seeking mature companion with an easygoing attitude, for friendship, possibly more. ☎732141 GOD LOVER Athletic, shy SBF, 33, 5’5”, 160lbs, Gemini, smoker, enjoys church, dining out, cooking, traveling, shopping, reading. Seeking outgoing man, 35-50, smoker, for LTR. ☎709843

Mobile Dating. The easiest way to meet great people.

GUIDELINES: DATE MAKER ads are for adults 18 or over seeking monogamous relationships. To ensure your safety, carefully screen all responses. First meetings should occur in a public place. Abbreviations are permitted only to indicate gender preference, race, and religion. We suggest your ad contain a self-description, age range, lifestyle and avocations. Ads and voice messages containing explicit sexual language will not be accepted. This publication reserves the right to revise copy containing objectionable phrases; to reject in its sole discretion, any advertisement on account of its text. This publication assumes no responsibility for the content or reply to any DATE MAKER ad. The advertiser assumes complete liability for the content and all replies to any advertisement or recorded message and for any claims made against this publication and its agents as a result thereof. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold this publication, its employees and its agents harmless from all costs, expenses (including reasonable attorney fees), liabilities and damages resulting from or caused by the publication or recording placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement. By using DATE MAKER, the advertiser agrees not to leave his/her phone number, last name or address in his/her voice greeting. Not all boxes contain a voice greeting.

ABBREVIATIONS

To purchase more than your free 30 words, at $2.00 per word, please call 1-800-234-5120

M B D F H C LTR

Male Black Divorced Female Hispanic Christian Long-term Relationship

G W A S J P N/D N/S

Gay White Asian Single Jewish Professional Non-Drinker Non-smoker

Become a member of Augusta’s hottest new way to meet singles! Call today!

F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

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To become a member, call 1-888-223-7044 To listen and respond to ads, call 1-900-226-8908

M E T R O

F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

,call 1-866-832-4685

To respond to ads using a LET’S HOOK UP 34-year-old SBM, 5’9”, 180lbs, Aquarius, nurse, bald head, new to area, open-minded, fun-loving, hopeless romantic. Seeking woman who loves to be romanced. ☎849401 CHEF/PIANIST 6’, 190lbs, brown/blue, handsome, amateur psychologist, nice car, time off to travel, will send photo. Seeks pretty female companion, 26-39, no kids, light smoker/drinker okay. ☎882215 WAITING ON YOU Clean-cut DWM, 44, 5’4”, brown/hazel, great personality, enjoys dining out, trips to the lake, camping, sports (football, baseball). Searching for young lady, no games, interested in LTR founded on friendship. ☎910547 MY DREAM LADY... is a spontaneous woman with a serious mind and who knows what she wants in life.

SBM, 42, believes dreams can come true. ☎907741 MATURE WOMAN WANTED Hardworking DM, 48, brown/green, looking for S/DF, who’s independent, spontaneous, open-minded and mature, D/D-free, who knows what she wants in life, for friendship and maybe romance. ☎898762 FUN FOR ALL SWM, 50, seeks intelligent, aware SF, in shape, for indoor and outdoor fun. Looking for a friendship, that may lead to more. ☎902103 PHONE CALL AWAY Self-employed SWM, 40, Pisces, N/S, N/D, enjoys dining out, movies, cooking in, many activities. Seeking similar SWF, 28-45, N/S, to share good times with. ☎882776 IN NEED OF LOVE, SERIOUS SWM, 44, 6’, never married, blond/blue, Aries, smoker, seeks honest, romantic SWF, 25-38, enjoys sports, country walks, and more, for LTR, marriage. ☎889184 LET’S GET IN TOUCH! SWM, 20, Cancer, smoker, enjoys fishing, hunting, walking, playing games. Seeking older woman, 30-60, for possible relationship. ☎888111 THE PERFECT MATE DBM, 40, 6’, 195lbs, with 1 child, Capricorn, smoker, homeowner, loves gardening, cooking, and hunting. Seeking WF, 28-42, petite, to bedazzling. ☎873556 NOT JUST ANOTHER... stud. DBM, 33, with 3 children, Libra, N/S, seeks a lucky lady, 25-45, N/S, with whom to share quality time. ☎868350 KNOCK-KNOCK, WHO’S THERE? Call me and find out. SWM, 34, Cancer, N/S, loves to tell jokes. Seeking WF, 25-39, N/S, for friendship and relationships. ☎775609 DON’T MISS THIS! SBM, 45, 5’10’’, 230lbs, interested in sports, jazz, movies, dining out. Would like to meet a woman with the same interests. ☎862898 POET SEEKS MUSE SBM, 45, loves all sports, board games, fishing, travel. Seeking a woman to share movies, dining and romance with. ☎843396 DARE TO DREAM Outgoing SBM, 21, 5’9”, 165lbs, Capricorn, N/S, loves going out, outdoors, children.

Seeking SWF, 20-26, N/S, for possible family. ☎835444 EARLY XMAS GIFT Very romantic SBM, 31, 6’1”, 255lbs, Scorpio, N/S, enjoys church, dining out, cooking. Seeking stable SBF, 25-35, for friendship first, leading to something longterm. ☎837718 SEEKING CHRISTIAN WOMAN Friendly, committed, independent SBCM, 42, 5’11”, enjoys quiet evenings. Seeking attractive, committed, independent SBCF for friendship, possible LTR. ☎796760 LET’S TALK SM, 28, 6’5”, 320lbs, enjoys sports, reading, movies, dining out, travel. Seeking attractive, intelligent, sensual SF, with similar interests, for dating and more. ☎796390

LET YOUR HAIR DOWN SHM, 26, Leo, N/S, lives a regular, cleancut lifestyle. Seeking a petite, active woman, 18-30, sophisticated southern belle, with back woods babe heart. ☎790345 YOU WIN MY HEART SWM, 44, N/S, seeks clean, sincere, honest, intelligent, wise, crafty SBF, 35-45, N/S, for life mate and deep friendship. ☎704669 I’M HERE FOR YOU SM, 42, teacher, seeks honest SF, 21-42, for friendship, possibly more. I like music, movies, conversation. How about you? ☎779153 CALL ME SM, 51, fun-loving, enjoys sporting events, movies, dancing more. Seeking fun woman with similar interests. ☎761290 SEEKS MATURE Spontaneous, sincere SM, 20, seeks older, loving lady, to explore life with, possible LTR. ☎767728 LET’S BE FRIENDS Outgoing, active SM, 31, enjoys sports, traveling, movies, dining out, and fun.

Seeking SF,with same interests. ☎769857 HEY LADIES! Outgoing happy SM, 24, 5’6”, 150lbs, slender and fit, brown complexion, braided hair, seeks SF, who’s open-minded and down for whatever. ☎767971 FIT FOR A QUEEN Restaurant manager SWM, 40, 6’, black/ green, moustache, enjoys outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, movies. Seeking big beautiful woman, 25-50. Tell me about you. ☎754399 GREAT CATCH SWM, 53, enjoys church, music, dining out, travel and more. Seeking kind, understanding SCF, with similar interests. ☎732175

I’D LOVE TO MEET! SM, 47, likes dining out, having fun, malls, movies, television. Looking for sincere male for possible relationship. ☎861252 YOU NEVER KNOW Fun-loving, easygoing GWM, 51, 5’11”, 198lbs, enjoys cooking, movies, fishing, walking. Seeking interesting GWM, 18-33, who’s full of life, for casual relationship, possibly more. ☎676662 NASCAR FAN SWM, 38, 6’1”, 190lbs, brown/green, is good-looking and masculine. Seeking a man who is also masculine and enjoys going for drinks and RVing. ☎250111 WHAT’S HAPPENING? SWM, 30, 5’7”, 200lbs, brown/blue, Aries, N/S, seeks BM, 19-35, N/S, outgoing, for friendship first, possible LTR. ☎958402 YOU CAN MAKE MY DAY Male, 60, Cancer, N/S, seeks a WM, 49-65, N/S, for casual relationship. Why not call me? ☎927707 BE YOURSELF Honest, caring SM, 47, 5’10”, 220lbs, seeks outgoing, ambitious, down-to-earth man, to share friendship, fun times and maybe more. ☎895468 BEYOND SWM, 32, 5’11”, 155lbs, light hair, looking for good time with GM, 18-45, ☎966003 DOESN’T PLAY GAMES Unattached GBM, 41, interested in meeting open-minded, fun-loving, honest, truthful, compassionate and loyal GM for LTR. ☎920995 DARK CHOCOLATE SBM, 23, with a dark complexion, wants to go out and have good times with a great guy. ☎917508

How do you

100% LAID-BACK SBM, 35, 5’11”, brown skin, dark brown eyes, Virgo, smoker, bookworm, loves tv.

Seeking masculine, spontaneous BM, 3045, smoker. ☎958192 CALL ME... you will not be disappointed. SM, 35, Indian, 5’9”, seeks the same. Let’s get together. ☎916175 COOL WORLD SBM, 22, loves bowling, football, chess. In search of a man who loves the same things. ☎907631 LET’S JUST CUDDLE Lonely GWM, 33, Aries, smoker, enjoys quiet nights, relaxing, being with somebody.

Seeking GWM, 20-30, for possible LTR. ☎887748 YOU WON’T BE SORRY Real, honest, and sweet GBM, 18, 5’11”, dark-skinned, Gemini, N/S, seeks friendly GBM, 18-35, not into games. I’m ready for a commitment. ☎831448 NEW TO THIS BiWM, 49, 5’10”, thick, black/blue, Libra, N/S, seeks friendly, fun-loving GWM, 35-65, N/S, for possible LTR. ☎839145 IT’S YOUR CALL GWM, young 46, 5’11”, 200lbs, brown/ brown, masculine, outgoing, enjoys travel, dining out, movies, shopping, Nascar.

Would like to meet honest, passionate GM, with similar interests, for dating, possible LTR. Serious inquiries only. ☎792384 FREE SPIRIT SBM, 24, loves having fun, enjoys tennis, racquetball, waterskiing. Seeking SM, to share a night out on the town, friendship and maybe a lasting relationship. ☎768054 SHOW ME THE TOWN... and what there is to do around here. Me: SWM, 42, N/S, new to the area. You: SWM, under 51, anxious to show me how wonderful Augusta is. ☎719366 LOOKING FOR LOVE GWM, 41, 5’8’, 140lbs, Pisces, enjoys fishing, television, wood working, gardening, arts, crafts. Seeking GWM, 25-45, for friendship first, possible LTR. ☎705204 I KNOW WHERE IT’S AT SBM, 25, practical yet fun, outgoing, Aquarius, smoker, seeks a masculine, alluring, well-rounded BM, 23-45, smoker, with his priorities in order. ☎695448 OUT SPOKEN SWM, 32, 5’11”, 145lbs, enjoys camping, fishing, Nascar. Seeking laid-back WM, 2335, for LTR. ☎560095

CHURCH-GOER SBF, 38, Virgo, N/S, heavy-duty equipment operator, seeks BF, 30-45. Enjoys motorcycle riding, playing bass guitar. ☎799776 BUILDING A FUTURE Hard-working, mechanically inclined SBF, 46, loves to build and rebuild. Seeing female who prefers the home life and knows what she wants from life. ☎120569 LOOKING FOR LOVE SBF, 32, 140lbs, 5’8”, down-to-earth, likes clubs, movies, and quiet times. Looking for a female, 30-35, with the same interests. If you’re the one, call me. Aiken, South Carolina. ☎113533 LIKE MALLS & MOVIES? Feminine BiBF, 25, 5’4”, 145lbs, short hair, Sagittarius, smoker, loves movies and tv.

Seeking another feminine woman, 18-30, with whom to hang out and chat. ☎958642 OUTGOING FUN WF, 28...

5’3”, medium build, loves movies, putt-putt golf, and bowling. Seeking WF, 25-40, medium build, for fun and friendship. Hope to hear from you soon. ☎958847 MAN FOR ALL SEASONS GBF, 31, 5’6”, brown/brown, Cancer, smoker, enjoys kids, bowling. Seeking openminded, passionate, understanding GBF, 23-45, for LTR. ☎941850 NO INTRO NEEDED SWF, 39, 5’7”, 145lbs, homeowner, easygoing, selfless, Taurus, smoker, loves movies and bowling. Seeking WF, 35-49, with comparable interests. ☎935299 I WON’T LET YOU DOWN Single GBF, 32, mother, non-smoker, looking to become acquainted with a laid-back, sensual GBF, who enjoys quiet times, movies. Interested? ☎910581 FRIENDSHIP SBF, 38, 5’7”, slim, fit, seeks SF, for friendship and fun. Must be outgoing, love to wine and dine, travel, movies and theater. ☎878217

CHOCOLATE SEEKS CREAM SF, 39, new to the area, down-to-earth, loves laughing, sight-seeing. Seeking WF, 30-45, to show me a great time! ☎861222 SOMEONE TO LOVE GBF, 21, with brown complexion, seeks femme GBF, 21-30, with no baggage, and her priorities straight. ☎843696 VERY PRETTY SBF...

28, two children, confident, feminine, seeks female, 20-35, with the same qualities, who is not into head games. ☎785531 A GOOD HEART SF, 39, goes to church, works for a living, likes having fun, going on trips. Seeking a similar female, 37-49. ☎780112 SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP Attractive, feminine SWF, 41, 5’4”, seeks a very open-minded WF, 35-48, for fun and exciting times. ☎775074 RAINBOW SEEKER Seeking my butch. SWF, 41, 5’2”, enjoys movies, walks, reading, quality snuggle time. Honesty is a must. Seeking SWF, with no drama, 30+. ☎754885 JOIN ME GBF, 32, nurse, part-time student, Capricorn, N/S, enjoys bowling, movies, shopping, traveling. Seeking casual relationship with woman, 25-45. ☎711628 I’M LOOKING 4 U Easygoing, loyal SBF, 31, 5’3”, 155lbs, security officer, people person, fun-loving, nice, caring, honest, enjoys bowling, movies, cuddling at home. Seeking trustworthy, outgoing SBF, 26-35, for friendship, maybe LTR. ☎965835 FRIENDSHIP FIRST! Funny, smart, down-to-earth GBF, 5’6”, 125lbs, loves long walks, hand holding.

Seeking GF, 21-30, who likes kids and doesn’t play games. ☎965829 ZEST FOR LIFE Articulate, adventurous WF, 32, 5’8”, brown/ brown, enjoys animals, running, movies and dining. Looking for WF, 25-40, for friendship. ☎965827 GIVE ME A RING Cute SBF, 30-something, seeks attractive SF, 25-45, for friendship, maybe more. No games. ☎965825 WASTE NO TIME GBF, 36, enjoys dining out, cooking, dining out. Seeking attractive, open-minded, fun, nice GF, 25-45, for friendship and possibly more. ☎965823

le op pe t ea gr gh ou en to u yo e uc od tr in ll We’ of y da y er ev r fo te da a ve ha d ul co u yo that the year.

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■ Automotive Spirit

57 M E T R O S P I R I T

Free Automotive Ads

F E B 1 3

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE METROPOLITAN SPIRIT AND GERALD JONES HONDA

Cars 1968 FORD MUSTANG, metallic blue, hard top, 289 hi-performance engine, auto, rebuilt engine, excellent condition, $4700, call Bryan 706-627-2331 (903/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1981 FORD GRANADA, gray, 4dr, 68K, good car, needs tires, $1000 OBO, 803-649-2422 after 3 pm or leave message (889/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1985 CHEVROLET CORVETTE, Z-71 suspension, excellent condition, 85K, power all, targa top, Bose stereo, $10,500 OBO (msta), call 803-278-2669 (936/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1986 FORD TEMPO, white/blue, one owner, runs well, 5spd, am/fm, cassette, $950 OBO, 706-651-9969 (872/0213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1986 PONTIAC 6000, auto, runs great, 86K, V6, dependable transportation, $1200 OBO, 706650-1971 day or night (898/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1987 HONDA ACCORD, needs body work, drums & rotors turned, has new master cylinder, shoes & wheel cylinders, $650, 706-667-0915 (885/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1988 LINCOLN TOWN Car Limo, TV, bar, VCR, CD, 20 inch extended drop desks, 60K, $5900 Firm, 706-733-9867 after 6 pm (952/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1989 CADILLAC SEVILLE, blue, 4dr, leather, 706-556-6124 (928/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1989 FORD MUSTANG, black, grey interior, auto, mechanically good, 706-738-4555 or 706-3065464 (905/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1989 PONTIAC GRAND Prix, white, 5spd, alloy wheels, looks & runs good, good dependable car, $1800 OBO, 706-650-0955 (956/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1990 INFINITI Q45, white/tan

leather, runs great, power windows & locks, sunroof, AC, excellent condition $5500 cash, OBO, 706-736-3225 (933/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1990 PORSCHE 928, black/black, 5spd, leather, 135K, 6CD changer, excellent condition, call Ralph 706-651-1114 or 706951-0013 (870/0213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1991 OLDS CUTLESS Ciera S, light blue, AC, power steering, Am/Fm, cassette, 4dr, $1000, 706-855-1381 (942/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1991 VOLVO 240, maroon, good condition, AC, PS, PB, PW, am/fm, cassette, cruise, $3000, 912-829-4556 (817/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1992 CHEVY CAMERO RS, 25th Anniversary Edition, green, gray interior, 305, auto, t-tops, excellent condition, 120K, $6000 firm, 706-339-4531 (811/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1993 FORD TAURUS, very good condition, new tires and brakes, low mileage 66K, loaded, as is, reduced, for quick sale, $3000, 706-733-9434 or 706-721-8304 (808/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1993 MERCURY CAPRI, green, black convertible roof, 145K, new tires & timing belt, frequently maintained, fun car, $2400, 706294-7529 (950/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1994 CHRYSLER LHS, grapepearl/silver, sporty, loaded, family size car, excellent condition, 117K, 22mpg, list $30,288, ask $3995, 803-279-1584 (907/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 BMW 325i, white, 5spd, 72K, excellent condition, premium package, priced to sell (KBB: $12-$15,000) asking $11,800, 706-722-0665 (816/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 MERCURY GRAND Marquis LS, 92K, leather, clean, all power, cruise, wire wheels, $5700, 706-730-2697 (948/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE, ES, dark green, V6, tan cloth seats, full power, cruise, cassette, 82K, $5300, 706-863-2483 (929/0306)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 DODGE INTREPID ES, leather, CD, roof, only $11,288 wow! Andy Jones Mazda, 803202-0002 (922) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 HONDA ACCORD EX, champagne, V6, leather, auto, CD, alloys, sunroof, keyless entry, maintenance records, garaged, excellent condition, $9500, 706733-7297 (957/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 MITSUBISHI GALANT, with spoiler, whole or parts $750, very good motor and transmission, 706-560-0775 (949/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 NISSAN 200SX, green, 5spd, cruise, CD, well taken care of, $3400 OBO, 706-267-1295 (814/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 PONTIAC GRAND Prix GTP, white, rear spoiler, tint windows, 3.4L, V6 high output, 4spd auto w/OD, well cared for, 129K, $6500, Jim 706-721-3365 days or 706-547-7878 eve. (822/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 TOYOTA COROLLA DX, gold, 79K, AC, am/fm, cassette, $6000, call 706-231-5430 or 706-267-6350 (932/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 TOYOTA COROLLA, hunter green, very clean, 4dr, auto, excellent condition, new tires, $3900, 706-364-6756 (868/0213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 ACURA 3.2TL, Premium, loaded, great ride, new tires, remote keyless entry, power locks & windows, AC, climate control system, Bose radio/cassette/CD, remote sunroof, $10,900, 803279-8326 (887/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 DODGE NEON, auto, air, stereo/cassette, looks and runs good, 37K, Best Offer, 706-3649431 (897/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 HONDA CIVIC EX, manual, power windows & locks, spoiler, sunroof, CD player and alarm, 64K in great condition, $7500, 706-240-5384/706-790-3676 x2736 (896/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 HONDA PRELUDE, local

the power of dreams

NES GERALD JO HONDA trade, Special, only $11,100, call quick! Andy Jones Mazda, 803202-0002 (971) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 HONDA PRELUDE, local trade, only $11,288, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (973) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 NISSAN MAXIMA SE, 5spd, leather, sunroof, Bose CD, alloys, no wrecks, very clean, 64K, $10,250, 706-724-2668 days (940/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 VW PASSAT GLX VR6, gun metal grey, black leather, sunroof, heated seats, new tires, 68K, NADA $11,500, must sell $9500, 706-832-1812 or 706-868-7159 (938/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 ACURA INTEGRA GSR, white, excellent condition, all

2003 Gordon Highway, Augusta 706.733.2210 www.geraldjoneshonda.com

power, many extras, 66K, warranty $15,500 OBO, 706-2849693 (812/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 MAZDA 626 LX, champagne, sedan, 4dr, auto, 54K, sunroof, loaded, excellent condition, $9000, 706-774-0404 or after 5pm 706-738-5154 (904/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 HONDA ACCORD LX, white, 4dr, only 30K, just $12,495, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (962) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 HONDA CIVIC EX, black, 5spd, euro lights, one owner, excellent condition, low mileage, $10,500 OBO, 706-373-6178 after 7pm (909/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE, silver,

tint windows, new motor, CD, AC, PW, PL, PS, $5500, 706231-6901 or 706-729-0104 (945/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM, bright red, auto, loaded, 87K, cold air, electric seats, etc, 6cyl, clean, Best Offer, 706-3649431(899/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 ACURA INTEGRA, silver, 2dr, 5spd, all power, sunroof, cold air intake, low miles, warranty, excellent condition, must sell! $13,000 OBO, 706-297-2691 (886/0220) 2000 BMW 323ci, titanium silver bullet, sports package, 5spd, Xenon, Z-Rated tires w/7yr/100,000 BMW transferable

continued on page 58

CHECK US OUT ONLINE WWW.METSPIRIT.COM

2 0 0 3

58 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

GUARANTEED CLASSIFIEDS

* Items for sale by an individual may be placed in our Guaranteed Classifieds. The same ad will run continuously for ten weeks or until the item sells, whichever comes first. You must call by 5PM on Friday every two weeks to renew the ad or The Metropolitan Spirit will assume the item has been sold and will delete the ad. There is a $5 reinstatement fee if you forget to renew your ad. All items must indicate price. Guaranteed classified ads are offered to individuals only and are not offered to commercial companies. Guaranteed Classified ads do not include any automotive vehicles, real estate or pets.

RATES: FREE ADS Merchandise Under $250 $8 ADS Merchandise $251 to $500 $15 ADS Merchandise $501 to $1000 $20 ADS Merchandise over $1000 20 Words or Less - No Exceptions.

ADS MUST BE PREPAID DEADLINES: In person - Monday at 3PM By mail, fax or email - Friday at 4PM

TO PLACE YOUR AD: Mail: P.O. Box 3809, Augusta, GA 30914-3809 Email: classified@metspirit.com Fax: 706-733-6663 ADS ARE NOT TAKEN BY PHONE Website: www.metspirit.com Visit Us At: 825 Russell Street, Augusta, GA MUST BE MAILED, FAXED OR EMAILED ON SPECIFIED FORM. PAYMENT OPTIONS: (ADS MUST BE PREPAID) Cash-Money Order-Check

AD PLACEMENT FORM:

Name_______________________________________Daytime Phone_____________________ Address______________________________________________________________________ City______________________________________________State________Zip_____________ Payment ❑ Cash ❑ Check ❑ Money Order ❑ Visa ❑ MC Card No./Exp. Date_____________________________________________________________ Billing Address (if different from above)_____________________________________________ City______________________________________________State________Zip_____________ Ad Copy 20 words or less________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ GENERAL POLICIES: The Metropolitan Spirit reserves the right to reject, revise, alter, or reclassify any classified advertisement. Please check your ad for errors the first week the ad is published. The Metropolitan Spirit is not responsible for any errors which appear after the first week the ad is inserted.

FREE AUTO CLASSIFIEDS

* Automobiles for sale by an individual may be placed in our FREE Auto Classifieds. The same ad will run continuously for six weeks or until the vehicle sells, whichever comes first. After two weeks, if you want to keep running the same ad, you must call The Metropolitan Spirit by 5 p.m. on Friday or we will assume you sold the vehicle and will delete the ad. All vehicles must indicate price. FREE Auto Classified ads are offered to individuals only and are not offered to commercial companies or dealers.

TO PLACE YOUR AD: Mail: P.O. Box 3809, Augusta, GA 30914-3809 Email: classified@metspirit.com Fax: 706-733-6663 Website: www.metspirit.com Visit Us At: 825 Russell Street, Augusta, GA MUST BE MAILED, FAXED OR EMAILED ON SPECIFIED FORM. ADS ARE NOT TAKEN BY PHONE.

GENERAL POLICIES: The Metropolitan Spirit reserves the right to reject, revise, alter, or reclassify any classified advertisement. Please check your ad for errors the first week the ad is published.

The Metropolitan Spirit is not responsible for any errors which appear after the first week the ad is inserted.

AD PLACEMENT FORM:

DEADLINES: In person - Monday at 3PM By mail, fax or email - Friday at 4PM

Name_________________________________________________________________________ Daytime Phone_________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________ City______________________________________________State________Zip_____________ Ad Copy 20 words or less________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

continued from page 57 warranty, 43.5K, $23,500, 706495-2731 (906/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 FORD MUSTANG LX, loaded, special this week, $11,770 wow! Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (925) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 FORD MUSTANG LX, white/tan, new tires, oil change, 36K, excellent condition, $11,400 OBO, call 706-733-1901 (866/0213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 HONDA PRELUDE, blue, only 20K, loaded, 7yr/100K warranty, just $19,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (963) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE GT, red, convertible, 14K, auto just, $17,495, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (966) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 CHEVY CAMARO Z-28, black on black, 6spd, Monsoon stereo/CD, AC, PS, PB, Goodyear GS-C tires $23,300, 706-560-9971 (944/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 HONDA CIVIC LX, black, 4dr, only 2K, just $14,995, + warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706733-2210 (960) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 MAZDA 626’s, two to choose from, miles under 10K, starting at $13,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (965) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 MAZDA PROTEGE 5, roof, leather, CD, 8K, only payments of $278, call quick! Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (968) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 MITSUBISHI GALANT ES, two to choose from, low miles, factory warranty, starting at $13,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (967)

Motorcycles 1999 HARLEY DAVIDSON Sportster 1200 Custom, chrome everything, back rest, drag pipes, excellent condition, $9000 OBO, call 803-278-2669 (935/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 HONDA XR650R, enduro off road only, XC, #1 winning bike in desert racing, many power enhancing extras, priced to sell 706-309-9526 after 6 pm (458/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 HONDA SABRE, 1099cc, custom pearl silver paint job w/fadin candy blue flames. 1920 miles, excellent condition, $7600, matching helmet available, 803279-3410 (818/0227)

Other CESSNA 150 H COMMUTER, 4000 TT, <150 SMOH, for more information call, 803-278-2669 leave message, (869/213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1987 EAGLE SPEED Boat, 60 mph, closed bow, Johnson 140HP outboard, $2500 OBO or trade for 4 wheeler, 803-2792669 (934/0313)

SUVs 1992 FORD BRONCO XLT, Nite, needs transmission work, $4000 OBO, call 706-738-8311 (926/0306)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1992 FORD EXPLORER XLT, 4X4, new tires, new transmission, $4500, 803-279-9278 (873/0213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1994 CHEVROLET SILVERADO, extended cab, step side, 4X4, loaded, excellent condition, $8500, 803-279-1651 (953/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 CHEVY TAHOE, Sport, 4X4, extra nice, 90K, $8900 OBO, 706-737-6100 (927/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 LANDROVER LSE, loaded, leather, excellent condition, 27K, $16,000, 706-667-0599 (901/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 CHEVY BLAZER, full size, loaded, leather, 45K, excellent condition, $13,000, 706-6670599 or 706-729-0829 (900/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 LEXUS RX300, black/grey leather, 16K, luxury package, excellent condition, one owner, 2WD, $29,600 OBO, 706-3736178 after 7pm (908/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 HONDA PASSPORT EX, white, 4dr, 2WD, very low miles, only $16,995. Hurry! Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (959) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 ISUZU RODEO, CD changer, just traded, only $268 payment, wow! Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (969) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 CHEVROLET BLAZER LS, low miles, CD, only $14,988, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-2020002 (923) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUSIER, loaded, CD, super deal at $13,748, WOW! Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (970) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 FORD EXCURSION Limited Ultimate, black, V8, 7.3L turbo-diesel, 4X4, tow, leather, fully equipped, excellent condition, $32,000 neg. 803-279-6186 (947/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 FORD EXPLORER, sport track, loaded, only $17,988, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-2020002 (974) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 ISUZU RODEO LS, loaded, only $16,399 wow! Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (924)

Trucks 1984 GMC SEMI, Cummings 350, 7spd, 12 ton hydraulic tilt trailer, runs great, new rubber, $10,000 firm, 706-339-0189 (894/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1990 FORD F-250 XLT, 351, V8, 51K, power windows, steering & locks, extended cab, towing package, $6000 firm, call 706595-7295 (939/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1991 CHEVROLET S-10, red, 4.3liter engine, power windows & locks, AC, auto, runs but needs work, $800, 803-645-6099 or 803-819-9964 (930/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1993 CHEVROLET PICK Up 1500, step side, 5spd, $5500, 706-798-3553 (954/0320) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––

1994 GMC 1500, pickup, extended cab, excellent condition, it’s a beauty, $6600 OBO, 706-869-8888 (937/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 CHEVY S-10, LS, green, 3dr, V6, auto, CD, 83K, $6500, 803-279-3961 (892/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 FORD RANGER XLT, white, extended cab, V6, am/fm/cassette, adult driven, power mirrors, great condition, $4200, 803-278-0654 (943/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 FORD RANGER, silver, sport bed, 2.3L, 5spd, AC, stereo, alloy wheels, 75K, showroom condition, $5495 OBO, 706-738-3830 (891/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 CHEVROLET 1500, 3rd door, just traded, very sharp, only $15,955, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (921) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 FORD RANGER, 24K, warranty good to 36K, auto, air, disc player, 4cyl, looks new, $9000 OBO, 706-736-8032 (884/220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 GMC SONOMA, 3rd door, low miles, very clean, only $268 payments, won’t last, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (972) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 TOYOTA TACOMA SR5, pick up, extended cab, 4.5K, won’t last at only $16,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-7332210 (964)

Vans 1969 FORD ECONOLINE 100, straight 6, 3spd, $500 OBO, 706-823-9644 (941/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1982 FORD VAN, 12 passenger, well maintained, V8, auto, air, $2500, call Bert, 706-736-8185 9a to 2p or Jimmy 706-738-0911 after 6p (890/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1990 CHEVY ASTRO, loaded, power everything, very good condition, V6, auto w/overdrive, cold AC, many extras, 110K, $3450, 706-541-0656 (888/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1992 TOYOTA PREVIA LE, dual sunroof, AC, PS, Am, Fm stereo, alloy wheels, dealer serviced, $4895, 706-650-2196 (955/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1994 CHEVY ASTRO, 177K, AC replaced 2 yrs ago, excellent condition, $3000, 706-738-9662 (871/0213) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 FORD WINDSTAR GL, dark red, auto, 7 passenger, 3.8 V6, AC, tilt, power windows, 146K, $3900 OBO, 706-8605001 (774/0220) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 HONDA ODYSSEY, blue, very clean, all service records, only $13,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (958) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 FORD WINDSTAR SEL, white, grey leather, loaded, CD, factory warranty, 21K, $15,700, 706-294-1040 (951/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 HONDA ODYSSEY EX fully loaded, only $24, 995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (961)

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M E T R O

B A J A

S P I R I T F E B 1 3 2 0 0 3

S TA R T I N G AT $23,995* - All wheel drive - Open Cargo bed - Switch back system expands cargo bed into passenger area for hauling longer items - 2.5 liter box engine - Fully independent heavy-duty raised suspension * Plus destination charge, tax, title & fees

GERALD JONES 1801 Gordon Highway, Augusta

706.738.2561

C H E C K O U T T H E S E G R E AT P R E - O W N E D D E A L S

HONDA PRELUDE

CHRYSLER PT CRUISER

$13,748

SUPER DEAL

2001 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAK

CALL VERY $11,100 QUICK $17,988 SHARP! Local Trade Special

Loaded • CD • Wow!

Loaded

1997

2001

2001

ANDY JONES MAZDA ISUZU (803) 202-0002 www.andyjonesmazda.com

GMC SONOMA

ISUZU RODEO

$268/mo.

WOW!

$268/mo.

WON’T LAST!

3rd Door • Low Miles • Very Clean

Just Traded • CD Changer

2000

2001

Open Monday-Friday 9am-8pm, Saturday 9am-7pm At the top of the rise on the AikenAugusta Highway in North Augusta

1

WEEK ONLY

!

2 2 .

B E F U R H T D E D N E T X E E L A S

FEB. 9-15 TIRE CLEARANCE SALE!

8

OIL CHANGE • OIL CHANGE • OIL CHANGE • OIL CHANGE

$

99 with completed Tires Plus Credit Card application

CHANGE WITH OIL AVE VEHICS LE INSOPN 20-POINT ECTION $

Only

9 .99

INCLUD Up to 5 qts of 10W30, new oil filter, lube where applicable, 4-tire rotation. $16.99 w/o application.

ES FR

EE

TIRE RO TATION

Plus environmental disposal fee. Most cars & light trucks EXP. 3-8-03

Mon - Fri 7-7 – Saturday 7-5 *No Dealers, No Carryouts, While Supplies Last We Honor Most National Accounts

AUGUSTA CLEARANCE CENTER 2705 Peach Orchard Rd. (Closed Sun) AUGUSTA EXCHANGE 274 Rob’t C. Daniels Pkwy . . . . . . . . . . . .

CENTRAL AUGUSTA 617 15th Street (Closed Sun) . . . . . . . . . . . .

EVANS CROSSING 4359 Washington Rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HEPHZIBAH 2601 Tobacco Rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MARTINEZ 3849 Washington Rd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

N. AUGUSTA 404 E. Martintown Rd. (Closed Sun) . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-798-8882 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-667-8008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-724-5800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-210-8010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-790-0977 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .706-860-6303 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .803-278-4466