Metro Spirit 02.27.2003 by Metro Spirit

THE METROPOLITAN

ARTS, ISSUES & ENTERTAINMENT

February

27-March

•

Volume

•

Issue

•

www.metspirit.com

G N I R E F F U S & N I A P wins o h w , rm fo re rt to r e ov In the raging debate lose. ld u o c o h w s a t n a rt o might not be as imp

By Brian Neill

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

Learn How Far Your Mind Can Take You

Back Pain

TROY STATE UNIVERSITY

Neck Pain

Earn your accredited Master’s Degree in Just One Year! Masters of Education programs in

2 7 2 0 0 3

We’re improving pain care. Our state-of-the-art facility houses some of the most high tech equipment in the country.

Chronic Pain Extreme Pain Cancer Pain Regain your quality of life. INTERVENTIONAL PROCEDURES MULTIDISCIPLINARY PAIN MANAGEMENT EPIDURAL STERIODS - RADIO FREQUENCY

We find out where your pain is coming from and treat it!

AUGUSTA PAIN CENTER Richard Epter, M.D., DABPM Medical Director Board Certified in Pain Medicine, Pain Management & Anesthesiology 2803 Wrightsboro Road • Daniel Village • 706-738-PAIN

Breakfast Lunch

COUNSELING AND PSYCHOLOGY CRIMINAL JUSTICE HISTORY INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY ENGLISH FOUNDATIONS IN EDUCATION HIGHER EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION

Masters of Science in Management in HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

Masters of Business Administration in GENERAL MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Offering a combination of evening, weekend & distance learning courses.

2743 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 201 Augusta, GA 30909 Next to Sheraton Augusta

706-210-3800 1-866-557-8617

NEW YORK. NEW YORK. NONSTOP. NONSTOP. Introducing the only nonstop jet service from Augusta to New York, twice daily. There are two good reasons to fly us to New York. Starting March 2, we’ll offer the only nonstop jet service from Augusta to New York, twice a day. And while you’re at it, why not join OnePass®, our award-winning frequent flyer program. In fact, for a limited time you can earn double OnePass miles each way between Augusta and New York. Yet another double-good reason. To register for the double OnePass mile offer, visit continental.com or call 1-800-346-6090 and mention promotion code 53016. For reservations, call your travel agent or Continental Airlines at 1-800-523-FARE, or ticket online at continental.com.

Dinner Work Hard. Fly Right. 2525 Washington Road • 738-0554

Flights operated by ExpressJet Airlines, Inc. d/b/a Continental Express. All terms and conditions of the OnePass program apply, including Continental’s right to modify or terminate the OnePass program. © 2003 Continental Airlines, Inc.

Contents DUI The Metropolitan Spirit

F E B R U A R Y 2 7 - M A R C H 5 • F R E E W E E K LY • M E T S P I R I T. C O M

ON THE COVER

Pain & Suffering By Brian Neill........................16

William Sussman

———ATTORNEY AT LAW ———

In the raging debate over tort reform, who wins might not be as important as who could lose.

MR. EDWARDS (706) 651-8354

347 Greene Street • Augusta, Georgia

(706) 724-3331

Cover Design: Stephanie Carroll Photo: Brian Neill

Announcing Gerald Jones Honda Inventory Reduction

Opinion Whine Line ......................................................................4 Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down ...........................................4 This Modern World .........................................................4 Suburban Torture ............................................................5 Words ...............................................................................6 Letters to the Editor .......................................................8 Commentary: Georgia State Flag ..................................9 Commentary: Clyde Wells ............................................10 Austin Rhodes ...............................................................12 Insider ............................................................................13

SALE

Metro Beat

‘03 CIVIC LX

Gold Dome: Complete Coverage of the Georgia 2003 Legislative Session ............................................14

$156 mo. or $14,890* 4 Door • Model - ES1653

Arts

“A Flea in Her Ear” Is a Farce in Three Acts .............31 Four Guys, Four Guitars ...............................................32 Childhood Innocence and Dark Sensuality in Local Exhibits ..........................................................................34

Free Phone Call

TICKETS WANTED

‘03 CRV LX

Music By Turner.........................42

$229 mo. or $17,825* Model - RD6843

Events

NEW! ‘03 ELEMENT DX

8 Days a Week .............................................................24

$269 mo. or $17,729*

Cinema

Movie Listings .............................................................37 Review: “Cradle 2 the Grave” .....................................39 Review: “The Life of David Gale” ...............................40 Movie Clock ..................................................................40

Music

The Mesmerizing Music of Kitty Snyder ....................41 Music By Turner ............................................................42 Music Minis ...................................................................43 Night Life .......................................................................44

Stuff News of the Weird ........................................................47 Brezsny's Free Will Astrology ......................................48 New York Times Crossword Puzzle ............................48 Amy Alkon: The Advice Goddess ................................49 Classifieds .....................................................................50 Date Maker ...................................................................51 Automotive Classifieds ................................................53

Model - YH1723 EDITOR & PUBLISHER David Vantrease ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Rhonda Jones STAFF WRITERS Stacey Eidson, Brian Neill ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Joe White ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Kriste Lindler, Jennifer H. Mar tin PRODUCTION MANAGER Joe Smith GR APHIC ARTISTS Stephanie Carroll, Natalie Holle ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Meli Gurley RECEPTIONIST/CLASSIFIED COORDINATOR Sharon King ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ASSISTANT Lisa Jordan CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Meli Gurley SENIOR MUSIC CONTRIBUTOR Ed Turner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chuck Shepherd, Rob Brezsny, Austin Rhodes, Amy Alkon, Rachel Deahl CARTOONISTS Tom Tomorrow, Julie Larson

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

‘03 ODYSSEY EX

$339 mo. or $27,159* Model - RL1863

‘03 PILOT EX

$379 mo. or $29,500* Model - YF1843 $499 down, taxes, plus 1st payment, plus dealer installed accessories, 12K miles per year, 48 month lease

GERALD JONES HONDA 2003 Gordon Highway

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

2002 PRESIDENTS AWARD WINNER

3 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

4 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Whine Line I

t is commendable that Augusta attracted “Les Miserables.” It is sad, however, that the Bell Auditorium can’t hand out prepaid tickets at will call. Saturday night, the understaffed front booth was very slow. Hundreds were left standing in line for pre-paid tickets after the start of the show. After waiting 15 minutes to be allowed to enter after the first scene, an usher remarked, “I guess after being late your punishment is now over.” I wanted to bark back, “No, your management doesn’t have a clue about how to get this venue seated in time for a show and keep the ushers from making rude remarks to patrons that arrived 15 minutes early.” The Futurity’s bull-riding competition had a similar problem with people returning home due to the ridiculous lines and freezing weather. I can’t understand how the people managing these events in Augusta can be so unprepared. Hint: Overstaff in ticketing. That’s how you make money! So now “Jimuh” Carter claims he was the only president not to send Americans into war. Maybe the pathetic president from Plains remembers some names: Maj. Richard L. Bakke, Maj. Harold L. Lewis Jr., Capt. Lyn D. McIntosh, Capt. Charles T. McMillan, Tech. Sgt. Joel C. Mayo, Staff Sgt. Dewey L. Johnson, Sgt. John D. Harvey, Cpl. George N. Holmes Jr., to name a few. They died at the most pathetic military operation in history, Desert One (Iran rescue mission). It’s a hoot to see the Augusta Commission considering a resolution to ask the state attorney general’s office to investigate state Senator Don Cheeks and District Attorney Danny Craig’s involvement in the Brassell case. Why don’t they call for a public vote of confidence in the Augusta Commission? It wouldn’t take long to tabulate that vote. Kudos, Mr. Cheeks. Be happy that you

did switch to the Republican Party. They have a way, no matter what the situation (from racist statements to backing child molesters) to make sticky situations disappear. Now, if you had stayed in the Democratic Party, oh how you would have taken your mistake to the grave because the Republican Party would have never let it go. Sunday I saw a pickup truck slam into the fountains and useless park in the middle of Broad Street, damaging them very badly. This might be a blessing. Maybe the city will tear them out and put back the much-needed parking. I am lucky and proud to live in a country where freedom of speech and peaceful assembly are a cherished and encouraged right. The anti-war protesters this weekend who were not peaceful endanger us all. Local law enforcement is stretched to its limits given the “Catch 22” theory. Many local cops are now gone, due to the military call-up of reservists. Our cops are now in foreign lands protecting us from unthinkable global threats, yet we here demand the same level of domestic protection. Please do not waste their time with voluntary display of unlawful acts. They have enough to do. Charlie Norwood and Max Burns: I am a medically retired heart transplant recipient. I paid into two retirement systems. When will we federal retirees receive our Social Security benefits, which are stolen from us every month? Pays to know somebody in the judicial system in Augusta. That way you can get your garbage swept under a rug. To the whiner who criticizes Tom Tomorrow’s “This Modern World” cartoon and says President Bush is telling the truth: I bet you also think President Bush is in favor of protecting the environment, affirmative action, keeping

Thumbs Up Well, at least they’re talking. Last week, Richmond County Sheriff Ronnie Strength told The Augusta Chronicle that he and Martha Burk, chairwoman of the National Council of Women’s Organizations, had talked on the phone. This came as a surprise to many

Augustans who thought the elected officials in this town would be more willing to spit in Burk’s face than to speak to her. Fortunately, the sheriff proved skeptics wrong. Burk’s response to the conversation was: “He was quite cordial.” Thank God. Way to go Ronnie.

Thumbs Down Gov. Sonny Perdue’s proposed flag referendum could cost the state at least $2 million and wreak havoc on Georgia’s new voting machines, according to an article in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. All that money and chaos for what? Is it really worth spending

church and state separate, fair elections, allowing everyone who’s qualified to vote. And, oh yeah, he negotiates reasonable agreements with his opponents because he’s a “uniter, not a divider.” You should take your own advice and stop living in a fantasy world and watch what he does and not what he says. Austin, wake up. It’s not a Republican or Democratic issue. Pull your head out of Danny Craig’s you-know-what, you brownnosing little weasel. God I get sick of you! Has anyone else ever wondered how old Mary Morrison of Channel 6 is? You can’t tell if she’s 35 or 55. It doesn’t matter though; her beauty transcends time, and she has a grace that hearkens back to an earlier era. Now if she will just lose the goofy weatherman.

$2 million on a referendum that would probably result in the NAACP boycotting the state of Georgia and further damaging an already crippled state economy? Please, Gov. Perdue, feel free to cherish Georgia’s history, but think about its future. Forget the referendum.

Stacey Eidson’s story about Danny Craig meeting with Augusta commissioners was nothing but a cowardly attempt at piling on, starting with the opinionated headline about Craig “getting a pass.” For crying out loud, why’d it take all the way until the end of the story to get to the commissioners’ real agenda trying to use the Brassell scandal for payback against Craig because of the special grand jury? Go ahead and let the Georgia attorney general investigate the Brassell case and then get him to read all the special grand jury investigations, and let’s see who’s really wrong here. Most educated people refuse last-ditch treatments for the dying because they are responsible for the bills, and they acknowledge the inevitability of death.

On the other hand, ignorant, parasitic types feel that no effort should be spared, no matter how dire the situation, since it is the taxpayer’s burden. “Caring” relatives actually compete among themselves to see who can demand the most services from hospitals, as a means of proving their devotion. Administrators could contain the problem, but it would hurt the bottom line. Some stricter regulations could save billions. This is in response to “Abortion in Augusta.” Typical scenario: A young girl finds out she is pregnant, decides to keep her baby. Baby comes; girl drops out of school, relies on state aid to support her and her child (no one will hire a high school dropout). Father bails on her from the get-go; girl gets frustrated, neglects child, turns to prostitution or drugs to make her money to support her and her child. Girl abuses child; child ends up in foster home bounced from one family to another; mother ends up homeless, in jail or dead. Is this any place for a child? The vicious cycle continues. This is in reference to the abortion article in The Spirit. I don’t agree with abortion, but when you’re riding down the road with your own child, how do you explain to them what all the white crosses mean and why they are in front of the church? This is an adult subject, and I want to know how to explain this to my 7- and 8year-old daughters?

Why is everybody jumping on Don Cheeks? It is Danny Craig whose feet should be searing. Oh good Lord! To the woman who wrote about the separation of sexes and using restrooms and water fountains as her platform, I say grow up. Do you really want to use the same public restroom(s) as men?

Suburban Torture BY

JULIE

LARSON

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

Zell was a fairly good governor, but he is a horrible representative in Washington.

F E B

I can’t believe our city’s white commissioners are so nonchalant about spending south and west Augusta’s tax money on questionable projects in the inner-city districts. They’re sucking up to the black commissioners while doing nothing worthwhile for the constituents they claim to represent. This voter will not forget this fact come election time in November.

2 7 2 0 0 3

As someone who has utilized many Planned Parenthood services on more than one occasion, I can tell you from experience that women having abortions come from all walks of life and if the real truth were known, they even come from the Baptist church across the street! I applaud Planned Parenthood for being there when I needed them. Not once did I regret my decision and never did I have suicidal thoughts. A lot of women can and do handle this crisis and go on to continued on page 6

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

1 8 0 1 G O R D O N H I G H WAY

738.2561

6 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Style is in Full Bloom...

! New

Monday • 7:30pm Channel 4

Bargains

at the

J R . L EAGUE ' S A TTIC S ALE

"Kiss Me I'm Irish"

Augusta St.Patrick's Day Parade ONYX ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS

2002 Soul Karaoke Winner "Sweeney"

Augusta Concert Band Wayne Hoey, guest artist

HARBOR HOUSE Book Publisher Randall Floyd previews new "reads"

The Forget-Me-Not Her four hand engraved petals reach for the morning sun...holding a magnificent Doris HeartStar diamond, proudly proclaiming the will of his heart.. The Forget-Me-Not will accommodate a center diamond from .50 to 1ct and features a matching platinum wedding band.

Platinum

Magnolias Flowers

Of The Old South

See the entire Collection of Classic Hand Engraved Engagement Rings and Antique Reproductions in the Southern Tradition Priced from $1295 and available exclusively from....

Channel 66

live normal, productive lives. I know because I am one of those women. Robin Williams has said that his company, International Consulting Corp., is “an umbrella of companies that does consulting and provides insurance and financial services.” Does that translate to the possibility that Columbia County Sen. Joey Brush and Rep. Ben Harbin are also parties to the consortium? After all, they have shared an office with Williams for years. Someone needs to look at “the providing insurance and financial services” and serving on the same committees in the legislature. Doesn’t smell good; in fact it stinks! I was reading the review of “Daredevil” inside your most recent issue when I came across how David Elliot characterizes Michael Clarke Duncan as “sort of King Kong” in the movie. I understand that here in the South people think we haven’t changed much since desegregation but calling an Oscar-nominated AfricanAmerican actor a big monkey won’t do much to change the South’s image. Two words for the Community Mental Health Center commissioners: Grow up!

Call in your questions & comments to 739-1822 or e-mail at connectlive@comcast.net Replays: Daily at 12 Noon, 3pm, and 10:30pm on

continued from page 5

Fine Jewelers & Diamond Merchants

Since 1940

2820 Washington Rd. 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday Closed Sundays 733-6747 or 800-798-6747 Member American Gem Society

Worry-free Up Front pricing!

It’s 11:00 p.m. Do you know where your plumber is? Well, if you call Connor Plumbing, someone is on the way–right away– anytime, day or night! No extra charges, no gimmicks, no “no-shows”– just prompt, friendly, reliable service.

People need a reality check when it comes to this impending war with Saddam. If we don’t put him out of commission, or at least set him back about a hundred years or so, the consequence will be devastation. Someone, somewhere, is going to eventually have to deal

with this man or one of his successors. We need not worry about the sympathetic countries aligning with Iraq — they’ll watch and recognize the power that we are. If we even slightly love our children and grandchildren, we should do this. It is because of this pacifist attitude that every great civilization in the past has fallen to ruin. Where are all the elected officials when needed? The East Georgia Mental Health Center will be broke in April. They fired the whistle-blower, Sharon Haire, and put the supervisors on administrative leave with pay for weeks. And those that truly need help go without. A most disgraceful mess to say the least! Where are the ethics laws? Where is the attorney general? Why does it take investigators so long? I speak for a lot of folks in the Thomson and McDuffie area. We are fed up with the good ol’ boy kind of politics we have been getting from the crews in charge. Our water problems are not getting any better. It tastes nasty and it smells. I have even heard that there are cancer-causing agents floating around in the water also. Yet they still raise the rates on the water bills. The trash truck stinks when it comes through Thomson on its rounds. We have an abundance of stray dogs on the loose. Yet this is the one which tops all of the others: Why are the cronies at City Hall picking on a local businessman that has provided a few jobs for some local citizens? They do not like it because he has a dog protecting his property.

Words “Martha Burk did not realize what she is up against. In Augusta, Georgia, we don’t take this kind of thing lying down.” – Elaine Clark Smith, as quoted in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution discussing the Suburban Women’s Club of Augusta’s opposition to Burk’s plan to protest against the Augusta National’s all-male membership.

“Trying to get people out safely, I tried, as hard as I could. Many people didn’t make it out, and that is a horror that will haunt me and my family for the rest of our lives.” – Jeff Derderian, co-owner of the Rhode Island nightclub, The Station, as quoted by the New York Times. Last weekend, The Station, which Derderian owns with his brother, caught on fire after the band Great White used pyrotechnics during a show. Ninety-seven people were killed in the fire.

24 HOUR SERVICE

VISA

863-3343

No Extra Charge–Nights, Weekends, or Holidays!

“I don’t know if I still want to fight ... I like doing other things now. I like getting high. I like playing with my kids. I like drinking.” – Mike Tyson, as quoted by the New York Times.

What we all ought to be asking, is how can Commissioner Bill Kuhlke vote on the new ordinance not allowing protesters near Augusta National when he has relatives or friends who are members? Didn’t anyone check out this as a conflict of interest? How can this man represent the citizens of this city when he clearly has other interests? And Mayor Boob: We will remember your role in this travesty of justice the next time you run for office. Come to think of it, the rest of the commissioners who voted to allow this to happen should think hard when elections are coming up. The voters may have something to say about this. My doctor has closed his business without telling his patients. We had to read it in the newspaper and now they want to charge us to transfer our records to the doctor we choose. Why should we have to pay for transfers we really had no choice in? I don’t care to pay for my doctor’s mistakes in life’s choices. What is our recourse? I hear dumb rednecks like Austin Rhodes are organizing counter-protests to Martha Burk. Do they realize how ridiculous they are? What are they going to protest? In favor of elitism, and discrimination? All restaurants should be non-smoking. If you allow smoking in restaurants, there is smoke in the restaurant even in the non-smoking sections. Most times when we go out to eat, we can walk in a restaurant and you tell right away there is smoking in their restaurant. If they made it non-smoking, I wouldn’t have to walk out of so many restaurants without even ordering. Once again it’s time for filing your income taxes. Be prepared to pay an outrageous price. The increase from 2001 to 2002 is unbelievable, even for the simplest filing. When tax services were questioned about this matter, they admitted their fees had changed. Everybody was doing it and they were in line with others. With a bad economy, I just can’t believe this and don’t know how some people can afford to have their taxes prepared. continued on page 8

YOUR COMPLETE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS BEGINS ON PAGE 24

HEALTH PAGE Take care of yourself. Let University help.

M E T R O S P I R I T

Understanding Stroke

“HealthTalk” on WGAC-580 AM Tune in Monday, March 3, at 8:30 a.m. to hear Alan G. Getts, M.D., a board-certified pediatrician and member of University’s medical staff, discuss family health.

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. To register, call 706/736-0847.

Charles G. McClure, M.D. Neurologist

Stroke is one of the most frightening medical conditions in the world. But knowing the symptoms and seeking immediate medical care when symptoms occur can help prevent the brain damage stroke can cause. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted and brain tissue is deprived of oxygen. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. The immediate medical goal is to remove the blockage and restore blood flow to the brain as soon as possible.

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.

Although stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, most strokes are treatable with early intervention. Unfortunately, many patients assume stroke symptoms will pass, so they don’t seek treatment. But waiting generally increases the damage stroke causes. Seek medical attention immediately when the following symptoms occur: • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body • Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech

• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes • Dizziness, sudden trouble walking or loss of balance or coordination • Sudden severe headache with no known cause • Difficulty swallowing Follow these preventive guidelines: • Don’t smoke. • Limit cholesterol and fat. • Eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables every day. • Limit sodium. • Exercise regularly. • Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. • Maintain a healthy weight. • Don’t use illicit drugs. • Control diabetes. • Have regular medical checkups. For more information on stroke prevention, for free 24-hour health information or to find a physician, call University’s HealthService Center at 706/737-8423 (SER-VICE) or 800/476-7378.

Log on to learn more: www.universityhealth.org

Your resource for healthy living.

Be Heart Smart An Event Just for Women April 26 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Warren Baptist Church, 3202 Washington Road Learn more about the unique you as you traverse the emotional, physical and spiritual journey of life. This event, sponsored by University Community Education and Senior Club, focuses on wellness and heart health for all women in the community. Festivities will include door prizes, lunch, a fashion show and much more. Seniors Club members: $10; general public: $15. Attendance is limited to 200. Reservations are required and will be taken after March 15. For more information or to register, call 706/738-2580 or 800/413-6652.

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.

To register for the following evening programs, call 706/736-0847. Registration and buffet dinner: 5:30 p.m.; presentation: 6-7 p.m. Seniors Club members: $8; advance registration: $9; at the door: $10 Reservations are required. To register, call 706/736-0847. “Taking Charge of Your Health — A Program for Women of All Ages” Featuring Jacqueline W. Fincher, M.D. TODAY, Feb. 27 First Baptist Church of Augusta, 3500 Walton Way Healthy Adults Fresh Start Smoking Cessation Program Sponsored by the American Cancer Society March 6, 13, 20, 27 6-7 p.m. University Hospital dining room 1 FREE To register, call 706/774-8900. “Osteoporosis – The Bone Facts for Women and Men” Featuring Orthopaedic Surgeon Douglas R. Phillips, M.D. March 20 Registration and dinner: 5:30 p.m.; physician presentation: 6-7 p.m. University Hospital dining rooms 1-3. Seniors Club members: $8; advance registration: $9; at the door: $10 To register, call 706/736-0847.

F OR FREE 24- HOUR

“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 or March 31 University Hospital dining rooms 1-3 By attending any of these heart programs during February, you will receive a FREE health risk assessment (HRA) to complete. Come back in March for this one-hour dinner program, offered on either March 17 or March 31, in which the results of your HRA will be given to you. *Participants should register for only one of these two classes.

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

Healthy Women Registration is required.

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 Breakfast with the Doctor “Eating for Life – Nutritious Eating and Weight Loss” Featuring Family Practioner Daren Marionneaux, M.D. March 20 9–11 a.m. University Hospital dining rooms 1-3 Seniors Club members: FREE; nonmembers: $3 Attendance is limited to 80. Reservations are required and will be taken after March 1.

HEALTH INFORMATION , CALL

ASK•A•NURSE

Breakfast with the Doctor “Prevention: The Key to Heart Health” Abdulla M. Abdulla, M.D. March 7 9-11 a.m. University Hospital dining rooms 1-3 Seniors Club members: FREE; nonmembers: $3 To register, call 706/738-2580 or 800/413-6652. Reservations are required.

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. Call 706/774-4141. “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. 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.

737-8423 (SER-VICE)

Childbirth Preparation Class Six-week series Mondays, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, April 14 Wednesdays, March 5, 12, 19, 26, April 2, 16 7-9:30 p.m. $75 Cesarean Section March 10 7-9 p.m. $10 Women’s Center Tour March 13 7-9:30 p.m. FREE

FREE Speech and Hearing Screening For Adults and Children To schedule an appointment, call 706/774-5777. MUST PRESENT COUPON Redeemable at University Speech & Hearing Center, corner of R.A. Dent Blvd. & St. Sebastian Way

800/476-7378 (SERV)

TODAY !

F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

8 continued from page 7 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Listen Augusta: I don’t know how much it will cost to bring Mackenzie Clark back to the Y-105 morning show, but I am starting a fund right now to get the ball rolling. I know of a thousand more people who feel the same way and want Mackenzie back too. We are willing to do whatever it takes to get her back on the air. Come on Augusta; let’s get Mackenzie back on the air. The excellent computer systems in the Richmond County schools are a wonderful tool. A friend of mine is a guidance counselor and brags all the time that she can spend all day on Yahoo and play video games and not even see the students all day. I’m so glad Richmond County is so good with their computer systems, and how they give everybody these computers with the Internet, so they can spend time surfin’ the Web instead of doing their job. To the idiot who sent in last week’s whine that asking the Confederate American to give up the Confederate battle flag is like asking an African American to give up Africa. I’m an African-American and I have never been to Africa and I don’t care to ever go to Africa, and if anyone wants Africa, they can have Africa. Blood runs through my veins, not Africa, you stupid, Not “you’re stupid.” I mean, “you stupid!” I can not believe a Richmond County Commissioner would let himself be quoted in your newspaper, saying he

does not read the newspaper, nor does he listen to the daily news on TV. Where in the world does he get his information? Sonny Perdue’s educational initiative motto should be, “No teacher left behind!” The DMV on Highway 56 is broken and someone needs to fix it. It makes no sense to sit for two hours and never get anything done, and have to come back the next day to sit another two hours and still not get anything done. All I wanted to do was get an ID card for my mother. I had to go someplace else to get it. The general manager of the new Carolina Center in Columbia, S.C., was on “Comcast Live” this past week. He said Augusta did not need more than a 10,000-seat arena to serve our area. His estimates are probably correct. Augusta can do two things that will help bring more convention business and a better quality of life to our city: Expand the Augusta-Richmond County civic center; build a trade center and convention center next to the Civic Center complex. Augusta has already seen a model built using the old Augusta train station as the Convention Center. Call it the Union Station Convention and Arena! - 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.

Just in Time for Spring

Screen Rooms Call today for a estimate.

ALUMINUM PRODUCTS & VINYL OF AUGUSTA 3832 Haley Road, Martinez 868-5323 • 860-4997 • 800-868-2586 Owned and operated by the Fletcher Brothers since 1970

Letters to the Editor

Responds to Abortion Story Dear Metropolitan Spirit, Thank you for the article on “Abortion in Augusta.” The article emphasized a point that pro-choice people have been advocating all along — choice. The article demonstrates the lack of reproductive health information that prohibits women from making informed choices. There are a variety of contraceptives and emergency contraception available that women don’t know about or don’t know how to use properly. In many cases, it is this lack of information that causes a woman to be in a situation where she chooses to terminate a pregnancy. The individuals who support the “Women’s Right To Know Act,” advocating a 24-hour waiting period, are eager to fill women’s minds with information when they believe it is a life-and-death situation, but don’t

women have a “right to know” about their choices before it gets to this point? This would mean funding educational and preventive programs, which would ultimately improve the well-being and life skills of women and their families — something the act fails to do. The people who support this act are part of a group of individuals seeking to chip away at a woman’s right to make her own reproductive health decisions. It’s easier for them to debate the abortion issue than it is for them to talk about sex and condoms, but clearly this is where the discussion should begin. Women do have a right to know. That’s why we should support Planned Parenthood and its effort to help women make informed familyplanning choices. — Andrea McPherson

No Flag Referendum Dear Editor, I have read with interest how that Governor Perdue plans to keep his campaign promise to allow Georgians to vote on the Stars and Bars the battle flag of the rebellious Confederate South. As a card-carrying black Republican it is my hope that the State Republican Party does not endorse his plan. The Stars and Bars do not belong on our Georgia flag because it is a symbol of bigotry, hatred, lawlessness and antiAmerican(ism). General Nathan Bedford Forrest flew this flag when he murdered in cold blood 300 black soldiers who had surrendered and massacred their women and children at Fort Pillow, Tenn., in 1864. The flag flew in the old South when blacks were

lynched for testifying against whites in court, seeking better jobs, using offensive language, failing to say “mister” or “sir,” disputing a price, attempting to vote or accepting a federal job. For black Georgians this flag symbolizes enslavement, lynching, oppression, bigotry, discrimination and notions of white supremacy. Is this the legacy and “heritage” the flag supporters wish to preserve? Thank God Georgians have progressed beyond this secessionist symbol that had divided us since 1956. (We didn’t vote for it then.) Since the Georgia Republican Party has talked a good game of reaching out to minorities, we shall see if they meant AfricanAmericans. — Otis Artis Smith

BREAKFAST BUFFET $4.99 WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY ALL-U-CAN-EAT! Country Ham! Bacon! Honey Baked Ham! Eggs Cooked to Order! Plus much, much more

BUY ONE, GET ONE 1/2 PRICE 2510 Peach Orchard Rd 790-7556 Open Wed-Sun Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

LIMIT ONE PER TABLE PLEASE

$1 OFF

EXPIRES

3/09/03

Opinion: Commentary

Decide the Flag Issue Now

BREAKFAST SPECIAL

$3.99

By Jimmy Ezell

Breakfast served all day long from 7am

“MADE FROM SCRATCH AUGUSTA’S GOODNESS”

BEST 3730 Wheeler Road ( ERN SOUTOHKING CO

he Georgia General Assembly – representatives of the people of Georgia – should decide the controversial Georgia flag issue now. The flag matter should not be put to the people to vote on in a referendum proposed by Governor Sonny Perdue for March of 2004. If the flag issue must be decided, it should be done now and not wait until 2004. We urge Governor Perdue to re-think the referendum proposal and become the leader on tough issues that Georgians elected him to be. During the “debate period” between now and the proposed referendum, the state will literally be torn apart by the pros and cons of doing away with the present flag and selecting a new one. Some want to return to the pre-1956 flag; others demand that the flag containing the Confederate battle emblem be returned. We will agree a new flag for Georgia is needed to replace the one that was passed by the legislature two years ago under former Governor Roy Barnes. Last year, the state banner was selected as the ugliest state flag in the country. We have a simple solution to the flag controversy. The legislature should return the original Georgia flag, which was adopted in 1879. That flag was designed by Herman H. Perry, who in 1879 as a state senator from Waynesboro, introduced legislation to make the flag the official state banner. After the American Revolution it was decided that all the sovereign states should adopt a flag design. It is believed that a flag, which had a blue field with the Georgia seal, was used frequently, even though it was never adopted until Perry’s flag was introduced and adopted as the state banner.

Perry, a lawyer, had served as an officer in the Confederate Army. His flag actually was an adaptation of the CSA flag commonly known as the Stars and Bars. It was shown as a vertical blue bar on the flagstaff third of the flag with the remainder covered by three horizontal bars of equal width. The middle bar was white with the upper and lower bars red. Three years before Perry’s death in 1908, the legislature added the state coat of arms, or seal. Most would agree that Perry’s design was his way of remembering the Confederate States of America, the fallen nation of which Georgia had been a part. With the state of Georgia currently facing a $620 million deficit, how can the governor and members of the legislature think about spending anywhere from $2.5 to $3 million for a non-binding referendum next year? When Governor Perdue was campaigning for his seat against incumbent Barnes, he promised to re-open the debate on the flag and have a non-binding referendum on the flag question. We believe at the time Perdue was seeking votes from those disenchanted with the way Barnes had handled the flag issue in 2001. Little did Perdue believe at the time he made the promise that he would have to answer to it after the November election. Georgia is steep in history. Why not put the flag controversy to bed now with the adoption of the state’s original flag? How about it Governor Perdue? It’s the right thing to do.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER 7 DAYS

between Doctors Hospital & I-20)

210-9696

ROYAL Model 2028 5 - Year Factory Warranty Self-Propelling “Cushionaire” All Metal Casting Powerful Motor High Filtration Bag Unit 30 Foot Cord

BOTH BOTH VACUUMS VACUUMS ONLY ONLY

$399.95

ROYAL Model Ry2000 Full set of cleaning tools store on the wand HEPA-type filtration Traps 99.97% of dust & allergens. 360 Degree swivel hose connection at both the unit and grip

Platinum Force Unlike other upright vacuums which draw dirt in at one side of the vacuum nozzle, the Platinum Force draws dirt into the center of the nozzle which means the dirt has a shorter distance to travel from your carpet to the bag.

SAVE $100 NOW ONLY

$149

HEPA Filtration

6 YEAR WARRANTY

— Jimmy Ezell is the editor of the True Citizen Newspaper in Waynesboro, Ga. The views expressed in this column are the views of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

: : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : Truth is stranger than fiction! See News of the Weird P. 51

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7

3244 WASHINGTON RD. 860-5434 This was the original Georgia flag adopted in 1879.

3244 WASHINGTON RD. 860-5434

2 0 0 3

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

Sentricon worries about termites so you don’t have to.

F E B

Opinion: Commentary

Irked Burk, Media Protest Law Change By Clyde Wells

2 7 2 0 0 3

That’s because the Sentricon® Termite Colony Elimination System acts as your burglar alarm against subterranean termites. The cutting-edge technology behind Sentricon is used for early detection, and is proven to eliminate existing termite colonies. Plus you have peace of mind knowing Sentricon is installed and monitored by highly trained, authorized professionals you can depend on. Life is too short to worry about termites. Call us today for Sentricon, and you can relax tomorrow.

Why Choose Advanced Services? • Big enough to serve your needs • Local ownership that cares • This area’s most experienced Sentricon® authorized operator • Home of the Annis family tradition since 1954 • Two locations in the CSRA

We Make it Convenient to Use Advanced Services, Inc. • 5 ways to pay • Ask about interest free payment terms • Sentricon® experience since 1995 • Almost 3,000 structures under service • We put your convenience first

Call Pat VanHooser and ... “Ask the Bugbabe” WGAC/580AM - Fridays 8:45-9:00am February 7th and 28th • March 14th and 28th • April 4th and 25th May 2nd and 23rd • June 6th and 27th

ForPest Control,Inc. “Caring to Serve, Driven to Be the Best”

Augusta Martinez N. Augusta Aiken

737-4120 860-0116 278-4338 641-0144

www.bugstoppers.com

he ink was hardly dry on last week’s foolish and untimely meddling with Augusta’s public protest ordinance before the liberal media weighed in sensing easy pickings. And why not? An elite private golf club and a typical little Southern backwoods town in their view. This incredibly naïve act by city attorney Jim Wall, the white commissioners and Mayor Bob Young – all of whom badly underestimated the cynicism and bias of some print media – has generated reams of negative publicity for Augusta in less than a week and it will continue now through the Masters Tournament and beyond. My criticism is not directed to the ordinance change itself but rather to the timing which was bound to bring out derogatory reaction from the print media. A sampling from two prominent and respected newspapers, albeit a distinct tilt to the left in both, in Atlanta and Washington follows. As may be expected, the ever-vigilant Atlanta Journal-Constitution led off the morning following the ordinance change, Wednesday, Feb. 19, with a story headlined, “Augusta Law Meets Suspicion.” In it Martha Burk, chair of the National Council of Women’s Organizations and expected protest leader, is quoted as saying, “It’s clear that the city of Augusta is looking to restrict speech ... It’s difficult to say whether (the law) has any practical effect. But clearly the intent is to restrict free speech rights. I can’t see any other way to read it than that.” The article ran a rather dubious statement from Sheriff Ronnie Strength to the effect that the ordinance change had nothing to do with the “upcoming situation” (Masters protests), and that he was told by County Attorney Jim Wall that the new ordinance was necessary to head off possible lawsuits. The venerable Washington Post kept our nation’s leaders informed with “Burk: New Ordinance Will Not Deter Protest.” In it, Burk states, “It definitely makes it harder to get a permit ... They (the commission) seem to be serving the club (The Augusta National Golf Club) as opposed to doing something that’s in the best interest of the city...It’s probably not a well-thought-through thing and it’s split the city along racial lines and that’s not good for anyone.” The story stated that Sheriff Ronnie Strength did not return their telephone call. Atlanta Journal-Constitution sports columnist Steve Hummer weighed in with this attempt at witty and salient repartee: “Don’t rule out the possibility that the city of Augusta will impose further restrictions of those who would protest Augusta National’s no-woman status.” Something along the lines that each protester must wear green, must have a singledigit handicap and must decorate all protest signs in a tasteful border of spring flowers. Did you pick up on that “will impose further restrictions?” Fellow Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Shultz regales his readers with this scenario: Protester: Augusta National discriminates! Sheriff: Well lookee here. You another Jane

Fonda, boy, cuz my eyes ain’t too good. Protester: I’m in my rights. Sheriff: Not any more. We got a new spot for you and your little sign. Protester: Where? Sheriff: Take a right at the light and go straight. Protester: When do I stop? Sheriff: Macon. Shultz doesn’t indicate that he attempted to call Sheriff Strength, probably opining that Atlanta has not deemed it necessary to string telephone lines to such a backward town with a buffoon for sheriff and Lord knows what all. What with cousins marrying cousins and ... well, you get the picture Mr. Shultz so deftly developed for his elite Atlanta readership. I mean they’uns saw that “Deliverance” movie, didn’t they? Are you getting my drift here? That an ordinance change that Jim Wall pushed for and assured would be more protester-friendly (and it may well be!) is perceived by a cynical and liberal media and Martha Burk and her ilk as anything but, bringing ridicule that this town does not deserve. (Red flags should have popped up everywhere when his honor the mayor threw his support behind the change, breaking the tie vote on the commission.) Wall’s main justification for the change has been all along that the change would be “First Amendment friendly,” thereby saving Augusta from future costly lawsuits. Here is what the Washington Post story had to say on that subject: James Raskin, a professor of constitutional law at American University, said yesterday he saw “multiple First Amendment problems” with the new ordinance. “It seems to vest the standards of dissent with the sheriff to decide if a group’s assembly conflicts with public safety,” said Raskin, who does not represent Burk or her organization but has given his opinions on the issue. “That’s not allowed under the First Amendment.” Violating the First Amendment? That’s Introductory Law 101. Jim Wall, call your classroom! But hold on! A closing note in defense of Wall and the ordinance change (but not the timing): Having no pretense of possessing a great legal mind but admitting to some modicum of common sense, I take exception to Professor Raskin’s quote that “to vest the standards of dissent with the sheriff to decide if a group’s assembly conflicts with public safety ... is not allowed under the First Amendment.” Who better to have the responsibility to make this on-site decision than an elected state constitutional officer, the sheriff, whose duties over time have evolved into that of the county’s chief law enforcement officer, which includes the responsibility to protect and promote public safety? Professor Raskin’s rationale suggests the quarrel’s remedy is to station supreme court justices along Washington Road to set the standard! Pedantic rubbish. — The views expressed in this column are the views of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

You are invited… Time: 5-7 pm Date: Every Thursday & Saturday “Happy Hour” Specials: Buy One, Get

FISH Y P P HA R U O H

One Free on Select Fish

Swim in to Petland for some aquatic savings & a lot of good fish talk!

North Augusta Plaza Shopping Center

(next to Publix) 803-279-5557 ** Offers good at this location only **

but

Now thru March 31st

Simplify, Connect and Save!

KNOLOGY HIGH SPEED INTERNET CABLE

Starting at

$28

95 per

month

KNOLOGY PHONE

$12

per month/ 12 months

706-364-1084 or 706-364-1000 *Some restrictions apply; internet connection includes up to 7 e-mail accounts; phone costs denotes base price for 12 months for local service only. Long distance is extra. Expanded basic cable service required with intronet offer.

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

12 M E T R O

/// A True Sports Sedan

S P I R I T

2003 Mazda 6

F E B

Opinion: Austin Rhodes

Why Don’t They Have Drive-Bys at the Grand Old Opry?

2 7 2 0 0 3

“ ...the 6 looks athletic. The stance is aggressive, the proportions dynamic and the silhouette tense.” —Car & Driver 6/02

“ ...the Mazda 6 proved to be a stable cruiser, providing a comfortable, quiet ride even into triple-digit speeds.” —Car & Driver 6/02

“Behind the wheel, the driver is greeted by a well-executed interior brimming with quality” —Car & Driver 6/02

“Steering and stopping were equally impressive. The rack-and-pinion setup exhibited precise linearity and seemed to be weighed perfectly, delivering driver input almost intuitively.” —Car & Driver 6/02

Check out the all new Mazda 6 at

ANDY JONES MAZDA ISUZU (803) 202-0002

WWW.ANDYJONESMAZDA.COM OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-8PM, SATURDAY 9AM-7PM AT THE TOP OF THE RISE ON THE AIKEN-AUGUSTA HIGHWAY IN NORTH AUGUSTA

o hip-hoppers ... rap master AR here, hoping you can help me out on something. When the rock ‘n’ roll hippies of the ‘60s got together, they had free love, free pot and horrible sanitary conditions. When the glam artists of the ‘70s played, there were weird lyrics, weird costumes, and not one tune you could hum. When the hair bands of the ‘80s hit, there were outrageous stage shows, fireballs used as set decoration, and a decibel level most civilized nations would define as a military attack. When the country music crossover fad descended, cowboy hats became chic; Barbara Mandrell had a hit TV show, and “Kenny Rogers Sings the Phonebook” sold 7 million copies. Music trends all have their own odd quirks, but please tell me something, when did gunfights and assassinations creep into the world of black music? How did we go from “Rapper’s Delight” to East Coast/West Coast gang wars, with more high-profile casualties than many infamous military battles? No matter what the state of today’s black music scene, it is the fault of white people. I will explain why in a moment. As I grow older, I take great pleasure in discovering and enjoying the early work of James Brown. The harmonies of Motown and the groundbreaking work in the ‘60s and ‘70s of Stevie Wonder is singular in its importance and quality. So, at what point did popular music, primarily created by young blacks, decide that it needed to wrap itself up in a celebration of violence, misogyny and self-destruction? Back in the decadent days of the Beatles, if rock stars insulted each other, about the worst they had to fear was a nasty mention in each other’s next release: “I hope Neal Young will remember / Southern men don’t need him around, anyhow,” as Lynrd Skynrd so eloquently sang it. Had the Southern supergroup expressed their outrage the way today’s hip-hoppers do, they would have put a contract out on Neal Young and then sang about it. Odd thing about today’s hip-hop scene, if white folks were singing the exact same lyrics,

celebrating murder and the subjugation of women, how quick would Jesse Jackson and Martha Burk be staging protests, and how many of us would be standing with them? By the way, dare I be accused of having an original thought? Black leaders from Jackson to Louis Farrakhan to James Brown himself have all harshly criticized the tone and content of today’s rap/hip-hop/gangsta music, as have many others. For whatever reason, the complaints have not been sustained, and very little attention is paid to the “geezers” who are making the noise. The bottom line is always money, and as long as the green is thick, you can bet the toxic material is gonna keep coming, which brings me to an interesting point. White people, particularly middle-class and affluent white people, are more responsible for the proliferation of the hate music, and the obligatory criminal infrastructure that comes with it, than any minority group. According to music industry research, whites between the ages of 12 and 25 account for 75 percent of all rap/hip-hop/gangsta music sales. Funny thing, these same folks rarely show up at live concerts featuring the same material. The reason? For the younger set, their parents won’t let them; for the older fans, it’s fear. As much as conservative palefaces want to complain about the state of black music today, we can blame ourselves and our own kids for its proliferation. If we didn’t finance it, it wouldn’t be there. At least not in the omnipresent form in which we now know it. The so-called artists responsible for much of the garbage we know as this bizarre form of entertainment, are many things, but they are not stupid. They are entrepreneurs. They are very, very rich entrepreneurs. My grandfather could have easily written this same column about the music of Elvis Presley 45 years ago. And as he typed it, my mother would have been sneaking off to buy his latest album. My mother is white too, by the way. — 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.

Opinion: Insider

!"#$%&"'&()$')#*&+)*,-'".

!"#$%&""'

A Time for Confidence and Decisions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

he Republican Party (GOP) in Columbia County doesn’t have a significant Democratic Party to fight in the overwhelmingly Republican enclave so every couple of years or so they orchestrate a battle among themselves. As the GOP delegates head to their convention on March 8, political insiders speculate that current Columbia County Republican Chairman Alvin Starks is out. Just who will replace him is still under negotiation. Starks barely fought off a challenge to his chairmanship two years ago. He was saved due to strategic political infighting of supporter Bob Beckam, a longtime GOP political operative, and due to the fact that the opposition had a weak candidate as an alternative to Starks. The chairman won’t be quite as lucky this time. The forces lining up against Starks are too many and too strong for Starks and Beckam to fight off. U.S. Congressman Charlie Norwood (R-9th) is leading the charge to oust Starks. Norwood’s District representative Michael Shaffer has orchestrated the process to replace Starks with campaignlike precision, garnering help from Columbia County politicians state Sen. Joey Brush, state Rep. Ben Harbin, and state Rep. Barry Fleming. Along the way, newly elected Columbia County Commission Chairman Ron Cross has joined the Norwood-Brush-Harbin-Fleming alliance to unseat Starks. Norwood and Company claim that Starks (1) has not actively represented the Columbia County GOP at the district and state level because he doesn’t attend the meetings, (2) doesn’t help raise money for candidates, (3) doesn’t hold candidate support events during elections, (4) can’t get participation by the executive committee, and (5) is generally disagreeable and ineffective. The anti-Starks group claims that Columbia County is one of the strongest Republican districts in the state but wields little power statewide due to the shortcomings of Starks. Starks supporters counter that the people who attempted to oust Starks two years ago have basically boycotted the Columbia County GOP since that time. They suggest that Starks is his own man and the elected officials don’t like it. The proStarks group claims that Norwood and his allies on this issue want to “anoint” every elected and appointed official in the party and throughout the county. Starks claims the attempt to replace him is a power grab, pure and simple. Some of the people who favor Starks are attempting to position this battle as a potential public relations nightmare for the GOP. Since Starks is black (he doesn’t like the term African-American) his supporters say Republicans will garner bad press for ousting him and replacing him with a white chairman. Since U.S. Senator Trent Lott shoved his foot down his throat in his comments supporting the segregationists ideas

Cradle Club

Join our Cradle Club today! Membership is FREE. Please PRE-REGISTER for ALL classes. Call 651-BABY (2229) or register online.

Community Ed

Saturday, March 15, 10 am – 12 pm This class is for girls ages 9-12, along with their mothers. Information will be shared on puberty and adolescence. Girls will discuss ways to successfully "survive" these natural changes. Please pre-register by calling 651-2450.

Minimizing the Effects of Hip & Knee Pain

Wednesday, March 19, 3:30 – 5:30 pm Join Dr. Robert Brand and Dr. Michael Cohen for this special presentation and learn how to protect your joints from wear & tear and your treatment options. This talk will be held at Doctors Hospital in Classrooms 1 & 2. To register, please call 651-2450.

Upcoming Events Fourth Annual CareFair for Women

Please call 651-6716 to join or register for programs.

Free Morning Fitness Class**

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:45 am - 9:30 am. Members only.

New Line Dance Lessons**

Monday, March 3, 7 pm, Intermediate. Wednesday, March 5, 1 pm, Advanced. Wednesday, March 5, 2:45 pm, Beginners. Cost is $9 for 6 weeks. Partners are not needed to take this class. Must pre-register.

Prepared Childbirth Classes*

AARP Driver Safety Program**

Infant CPR*

Orientation Coffee for New and Renewing Members**

Baby’s Brother and Sister*

Educational Program – The X, Y & Zzzzzz’s of Better Sleep**

Tuesdays, February 18 – March 25 Mondays, March 17 – April 21 7 – 9:30 pm Thursday, March 20 6:30 – 9 pm Sunday, March 23 2 – 3:30 pm

Baby Care*

Sunday, March 23 4 – 6:30 pm

Breastfeeding*

Thursday, March 27, 6 – 8 pm

Saturday Express Prepared Childbirth Class*

Saturday, May 10, 9 am – 2 pm All women are invited to treat the mind, body and soul. Radio personality, Delilah, will be our featured speaker. Women will receive image-boosting services from massage, manicures and makeovers to life-saving screenings and health information. For information, please call 651-FAIR (3247).

Senior Friends

Thursday, March 6, 7 – 8:30 pm Tour begins at the hospital in Classrooms 1 & 2.

Labor and Delivery Tour

You’re a Big Girl Now*

Alvin Starks

M E T R O

L#)G-A=&-A')

Columbia County GOP Will Oust Starks

Thursday & Friday, March 6 and 7, 12 pm Must pre-register. Open to the public 50+.

Tuesday, March 11, 10 am. Please RSVP.

Thursday, March 13, 11:30 am Free lunch provided. Open to the public 50+. Please call 651-2450 to pre-register.

Covered Dish Luncheon and Auxiliary Meeting Monday, March 17, 12 pm Savannah Rapids Pavilion.

**These Senior Friends programs will be held in the Senior Friends Meeting Area, located on the Doctors Hospital Campus, Building III, 1305 Interstate Parkway.

March 29, 9 am – 5 pm

*These classes will be held at: Doctors Hospital Campus, 3623 J. Dewey Gray Circle Medical Office Building I, Cradle Club Classroom, Suite 110.

For more information, call 651-2450 or visit www.doctors-hospital.net

1973–2003

3651 Wheeler Road • Augusta, GA

“…The food, ah, the food” “…Adds flare to southern cuisine” “…Fresh Thyme Cafe is a little gem” Charlie Norwood of former U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond, Republicans sensitive to their negative image among African-Americans have made significant efforts to change that image. Starks supporters claim his ouster will send the wrong message at a critical time for the party. Regardless of the reasoning of either side, the deal is done. At a meeting a few weeks ago, delegates to the convention were chosen. The Starks team was out-organized out-smarted and out-maneuvered. Leading the fight against Starks was Norwood’s man, Shaffer. Look for Starks to be drummed out of office at the meeting on March 8. Whomever replaces him will be beholden to Norwood and his gang of elected officials who want Starks out. Whether that is good or not depends on whom you ask. —The views expressed in this column are the views of The Insider and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

“…Southern cuisine with a twist”

★ Rat1/ed2 4 rs Sta

“Voted one of Augusta’s top new restaurants”

437 Highland Ave, Augusta, GA 706.737.6699 • Fax 706.733.8644 Mon-Sat Lunch & Dinner

S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Gold Dome Revue

M E T R O

GREG

LAND

S P I R I T F E B

Complete Coverage of the Georgia 2003 Legislative Session

2 7 2 0 0 3

While You Were Sleeping

s The Spirit goes to press, the General Assembly is just dragging back to work after taking a(nother) week off for budget hearings while the money mavens tried to figure out a way to spread a shrinking pot of gravy so that everybody’s potatoes get a dab, but the fat ol’ uncles don’t cuss too much. Which means that, for the past several days, an assortment of department heads, staffers, attorneys, lobbyists and “consultants” — never forget the consultants — have been trouping into the Appropriations Committee hearing room toting armloads of documents, maps, graphs, charts and multi-media displays in an effort to press their case for funding. And, almost invariably, they soon shuffle out with the hangdog demeanor of Oliver Twist following his luckless plea for just one more taste. These are, after all, tough times all over, and while everyone would like to spend lavishly on things like children’s health care, nursing homes, colleges and other such frippery, there are vital expenses to be considered. After all, we’ve got to have some $2.5 million (according to the secretary of state) for a desperately needed straw-vote on the state flag. Even more cash is necessary for additional prisons (after all, our lawmakers are busily figuring out new crimes to keep ‘em full — and it’s really our patriotic duty to help keep the stock portfolios of investors in private prison soaring). And of course a still-unresolved issue is the as-yet-undetermined cost of thousands of heavy-duty, double-handled Whackin’ Bibles, suitable for thumping women who might be considering an abortion or bludgeoning doctors who fail to adequately rebuke such trollops and make them cool their heels for the requisite 24 hours; these will be essential following passage of the Woman’s Right To Be Harangued, Threatened and Treated Like a Moron Act. (It seems there’s a backlog of orders for Whackin’ Bibles — some guy named Ashcroft bought ‘em all up.) These slack days are particularly hard

on Capitol Press Corps which, in the absence of legislative sessions and regular committee meetings, must content itself with other pursuits (i.e., drinking beer at Hooters in Underground Atlanta. Salud.). So it seems a likely opportunity to catch GDR’s loyal readers (both of ‘em) up on some of the legislation and other goings-on— important, interesting or just plain weird — bumping around in the halls of the Statehouse. • You’ve got to hand it to Governor Sonny Perdue for perseverance. When he first floated his plan to raise taxes on booze and ‘baccy, he was pretty much inundated with criticism from all sides. His own party cried “treason”; Democrats seized the opportunity to point at “tax-and-spend Republicans”; and the right-wing National Review even called for his impeachment — less that one month after he had assumed office. But the hard numbers don’t lie, and Sonny soldiers on. While he’s taken to avoiding talk about the alcohol tax much lately — nobody likes a mean drunk, and Georgians are already in a nasty mood lately — but the tobacco levy remains prominently on his plate, although his offer still stands for lawmakers to avoid the cuts if they can figure out how. On Tuesday, Senate Republicans took up the challenge, releasing a budget proposal hacking some $90 million in additional cuts, largely from higher education, greenspace acquisition and another round of belt-tightening from already-strapped state agencies. Can you hear the screaming? • One of the most rancorous issues (and we mean real rancor — not the pseudo-outrage assumed by many lawmakers on issues like the flag, which are great to sucker the rubes but don’t mean diddly to the majority of these guys) is the ongoing battle over redistricting. Senate ‘Pubs want to replace the Democratic-drawn map from last year — successfully drawn to retain

Demo-Power until a quartet of partyswitchers scuttled that little scheme — with one even friendlier to the GOP. Not likely, given Democratic control of the House. On the other hand, there’s the feud between Perdue and Democratic Attorney General Thurbert Baker over the AG’s decision to defend an older Senate map before the U.S. Supreme Court, which was challenged last year on the grounds that it diluted black voting strength. In his State of the State speech, Perdue demanded that Baker drop the suit. Baker refused, and now Perdue is suing him. Now, whether Baker would ever have acceded to Perdue’s demand is open to question. But the way the governor dropped his bombshell — according to AG spokesman Russ Willard, Baker was only told an hour or so before the speech that Perdue would make such a call (which was issued as a direct challenge) — seemed calculated to provide red meat for GOP partisans but hardly a way to conduct business between two elected officials. Maybe a trade-off is in the works: The ‘Pubs drop their re-map, Baker drops his defense of the old map, Sonny drops his lawsuit, and everybody plays nice. Nah, that’ll never work. • Two competing bills aim to get a handle on the runaway use of the state’s (and nation’s, and world’s) most vital resource: water. For years, unlimited water permits for agricultural purposes — a broad category, indeed — have been freely handed out by the state Department of Natural Resources. This was fine until Georgia’s booming population and increasing industrial base began competing with farmers for its use, and Southern areas of the state started worrying that Atlanta would suck ‘em dry. For some years, lawmakers have tried to end the practice of shifting water from one river basin to another, and control the amounts of water used. A House bill ostensibly aimed at getting a handle on water use does make

an effort to measure and limit the water withdrawn for agricultural use; unfortunately, it also allows holders of water withdrawal permits (issued free of charge) to “trade” (read: sell) their water rights — essentially selling a public commodity. Even worse, however, is an exemption allowing the most populous areas of the state to transfer water from one river basin to another. In response, a Senate bill — drawn up by Democrats and Republicans, rural and urban lawmakers — makes the inter-basin transfer ban mandatory statewide, controls permit profiteering and sets up local water-basin boards to oversee usage. • The set of bills laying out the governor’s ethics package has finally been fully introduced, to somewhat mixed reviews. While ending the practice of candidates being able to give contributions directly to other candidates, the governor’s slate would still allow unlimited transfers to political parties — which are free to spend that money upon whatever or whomever they choose. The governor also requires a bit more financial disclosure from candidates, but family members’ financial and business ties could still be concealed. There are also measures demanding a one-year hiatus between an elected official leaving office then returning to lobby the Legislature, protecting whistleblowers and beefing up the State Ethics Commission’s authority and budget. But the governor also demands that the current ethics panel — which is in the midst of investigating Perdue himself — step down to be replaced by his own appointments. And he failed to make one change sought by reformers of both parties: rolling back the higher campaign contribution limit pushed through by his successor, Roy Barnes. Democrats say they’ll push for tougher legislation in some areas. • A short-lived GOP proposal to boost the entertainment allowance at the

❖

Looking to Buy or Sell an Automobile?

Fabulous Sandwiches, Wraps, Pasta, Salads ... & Hot Dogs, too!

❖

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Outdoor Dining Available

1450 Greene Street, Downtown • 706-262-4003 Mon-Fri 7:30am-3:30pm www.enterprisemill.com

SEEPAGE PAGE 4253 SEE

❖

• And finally, the Augusta-Richmond County legislative delegation’s most unobtrusive member, Rep. Alberta Anderson, is under fire this week for taking a leave of absence from her job at the Burke-Richmond Job Training Authority to serve in the General Assembly. Local Republicans, it seems, have demanded that she step down from her position — a move which, were she to accede, would leave her legislation untended. So we checked to see exactly what sort of legislative initiatives Anderson has launched this year. Surprise! Not one bill or resolution — none, zip, nada — boasts the signature of the Lady From the 100th.. Even the freshmen on the delegation have found at least a handful of bills to support, but not her. And we think that’s a damn healthy trend. In fact, that’s the sort of record Republicans should applaud — they’re the “small government” crowd, right? So we say, “Well done, Alberta. Here’s looking at you.” OK, so actually we’re looking at a skinny blonde waitress in tight orange hot pants, industrialstrength pantyhose and a too-small Tshirt. But you get the idea.

From Greene Street, Take West Entrance, Second Door Plenty of Parking

❖

Governor’s Mansion from its current paltry level of $40,000 per year to $100,000 was shot down when Perdue himself said he didn’t need it, especially during such tough economic times. After all, the guy doesn’t even drink, and he’s banned Zoom-Zooms, WhamWhams and good ol’ greasy groceries as part of his girth-control program. How much can lettuce, tofu and sweet tea cost — even if you’re feeding dozens?

Professional Installation & Repair for any bathroom

COLEMAN PLUMBING

(706) 556-3833 24 HOUR SERVICE

G N I R E F F U S PAIN &

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

wins o h w , m r o f e tort r r e v o e t a b e d lose. g d l n i u g o a c r o e h h t w In nt as a t r o p m i s a might not be

2 7 2 0 0 3

By Brian Neill

ony and Susie Zionkowski’s twin, 3-year-old daughters both sport purple, flower-print outfits and the same beautiful blonde hair. Their names begin with the same letter — Lucy and Lily. But for the most part, that’s where the similarities end. While Lucy is off in the other room of the couple’s Aiken County home, playing with toys and looking at picture books the way most other 3-year-old girls do, Lily remains seated in her mother’s lap, her body stiff and nearly motionless. Her eyes occasionally drift in the direction of the sound of a speaker’s voice, but cannot fix on the source.

Rather than reveling in the joys of 3year-old snacks like quartered PB&Js and chicken fingers, Lily must take her meals from a bottle. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. In February of 2000, the Zionkowskis were in a room at Aiken Regional Medical Center awaiting delivery of the twins. Already there were complications, with Lily being in an awkward, transverse position — her head and feet perpendicular to Susie Zionkowski’s sides, making passage through the birth canal difficult to impossible. It wasn’t until depositions were later taken from medical experts that the Zionkowskis would realize how much more dangerous their obstetrician had

made the situation by administering a controversial drug to induce contractions. Fetal monitors showed the twins were in distress. Susie Zionkowski was wheeled into the OR in anticipation of a complicated pregnancy. Lucy was born vaginally, given oxygen, and taken to MCG for observation. But Lily wouldn’t come, and the obstetrician, the Zionkowskis recalled, began to panic. “There’s no way to describe the chaos that was in that room, but right before Lily was born, I’ve got nurses crying — I can hear them crying, I’ve got this doctor in panic,” Susie Zionkowski remembered. “She was in such panic that she literally, to anyone standing behind me, said, ‘I

need some help. I need somebody to help me.’” Lily’s heart rate began to drastically plummet. Tony Zionkowski remembers frantically trying to sign the papers in the OR, giving permission for an emergency Caesarian section on his wife. Susie Zionkowski’s last words to an attendant in the OR just after Lily was taken from her womb were: “Is she alive? Is she alive?” The time Lily spent in her mother’s womb without oxygen and in distress is fast behind her now. But the ordeal, consisting of a few bad decisions, firmly cemented her future. “Obviously, she has cerebral palsy, she has epilepsy, she has numerous medical

problems,” Tony Zionkowski said, he and his wife occasionally adjusting a white ribbon in Lily’s blonde hair. “She’ll never be able to be employed, more than likely. She could end up being wheelchair-bound the rest of her life.” The Zionkowskis said they initially sought $10 million for Lily’s injuries, based on a detailed accounting of what it might cost to care for the child throughout her life. The Zionkowskis said they didn’t want Lucy to be left with the sole burden of caring for her sister should they die prematurely or become unemployed in the future. The couple settled for less than the initial amount sought in the case, under a sealed agreement with the doctor’s lawyers. “I would say, our goals in this lawsuit, we did not want to become rich and we did not become rich,” Tony Zionkowski said. “Our goal was to make sure she would be taken care of if something happened to us. We want the best treatment we can get for her, regardless of cost.” About a year ago, likely around the time the Zionkowskis’ case was readying for trial, officials at Augusta’s University Hospital found themselves in a sticky situation. The company that insured University, St. Paul, had a year earlier told the institution that it would no longer cover hospitals in Georgia. St. Paul had butted heads with Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine over its decision not to renew some health care providers’ policies, citing soaring medical malpractice suits as the reason. At the time, the Minnesota-based St. Paul claimed it was shelling out $1.79 in insurance claims for every dollar it took in through premiums. University found itself having to quickly shop medical malpractice insurance providers. There weren’t many left in the state from which to choose. The hospital wound up having to resort to a progressive option in obtaining a policy — it turned to an offshore provider in the Cayman Islands. The move saved University about half a million dollars a year over what it potentially faced paying, but the hospital’s insurance premium still quadrupled. “When you think about it, we (prior to the expiration of the St. Paul contract) paid $300,000 to have someone covering us on any claim from a million dollars to

$31 million. And now, we’re paying somebody $1.3 million to provide us coverage from $2 million to $32 million,” said Edward L. Burr, vice president of legal affairs at University. “We still have $30 million worth of coverage, but we’re absorbing twice as much risk on the front end and we’re paying four times as much to them to take that less(er) risk that they’re taking.” These two contrasting scenes are symbolic of the battle surrounding tort reform. Politicians in Congress and the Georgia General Assembly, taking a cue from the Bush administration, are pushing for legislation that would set limits on monetary verdict awards in cases involving product liability and medical malpractice. While chambers of commerce in both Georgia and South Carolina are pushing for tort reform, maintaining it will create a more business-friendly environment to attract corporations that would otherwise shun litigious climates, some experts agree the most pertinent aspect of the issue is that which would impact medical malpractice cases. Two Georgia Republicans — state Senate Majority Leader Tom Price, a physician and Emory professor, and state Senator Eric Johnson, a Savannah architect — recently introduced legislation that would limit monetary awards in tort cases. There’s been fear-mongering on both sides of the issue, with lawyers saying the move to cap jury awards for injuries, pain and suffering will leave patients like Lily Zionkowski without the necessary money to care for her disabilities. On the other hand, doctors, hospitals and insurance companies claim that rampant litigation threatens to either put them out of business or leave no one wanting to assume the risk of caring for the sick and injured, or even for that matter, birthing babies. While doctors and hospitals point to recent physician walkouts over outrageous insurance premiums throughout the country as indicative of the nation’s sueat-will mindset — and thus, the soaring cost of practicing medicine — trial lawyers argue that it’s the sagging stock market, where insurance companies have invested their premiums, that’s truly to blame for doctors’ costly insurance bills.

DINNER IS SERVED S TA R T I N G T U E S D A Y, M A R C H 4

Casi’s

continued on page 18

6-10 Tuesday-Thursday 6-11 Friday-Sunday Lunch Served Tuesday - Saturday 11:00 - 2:30

K I T C H E N AMERICAN EUROPEAN CUISINE

3112

WRIGHTSBORO

364-8260

AFRAID TO

BATHE? Let us re-do your tub!

One Day Stress Free Bath Remodeling

Over 1 million Installations Nationwide Since 1979 Bathtub liners • Shower Base Liners • Ceramic Tile • Acrylic Wall System • Shower Doors • Faucets • Vanities

“WE PUT A NEW BATHTUB OVER YOUR OLD ONE”™

“I guess the question is, why should the insurance industry decide, before they see any facts or evidence regarding any individual, what that person’s value of life is?” — Savannah attorney Mark Tate

1-800-BATHTUB

Come visit our showroom! Showroom Hours: M-F 9-6 4115 Columbia Rd, Suite 10 • Next to Kroger Office: 706-869-0750 www.rebathaugusta.com

17 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

18 continued from page 17 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Those annual insurance bills, in some instances, have reached close to the quarter-million-dollar mark in certain states for high-risk practitioners like obstetricians and neurosurgeons. What the piece of legislation introduced recently in the Georgia Legislature recommends, is this: In any case involving non-economic damages, defined as damages for “physical and emotional pain, distress, suffering, inconvenience, physical impairment, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of society and companionship, loss of consortium, and all other nonpecuniary losses of any kind of nature,” the maximum award will be $250,000. Additionally, when a medical malpractice verdict results in an award of $50,000 or more to the plaintiff, the defendant could request to pay the damages in periodic installments, funded through an annuity. Part of the bill’s aim, as stated within its contents, is to reform the health care liability system, seen as a “costly, volatile and unpredictable” mechanism for compensating the injured. The bill blames soaring malpractice claims for the nation’s health care crisis. But an exhaustive study a University of Georgia law professor conducted that examined civil cases filed in Georgia courts, doesn’t bear out such arguments. Thomas A. Eaton, who teaches torts and health care regulation at UGA, looked at 25,000 civil suits filed in state and superior court in Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, Bibb, Oconee and Irwin counties between 1993 and 1997. Of those 25,000 cases, only 5 percent fell into the category of tort — meaning, essentially, inflicted injury or damages. The remaining 95 percent of civil cases pertained to such matters as divorce, debt collection, breach of contract issues and property disputes. Of the remaining 5 percent of cases classified as tort, the overwhelming majority — roughly 75 percent — were related to automobile accidents. And of those remaining tort cases that pertained to either products liability or medical malpractice, more than half were settled before going to trial, according to Eaton’s study, which was published in the Georgia Law Review. In only 23 percent of medical malpractice suits did plaintiffs win, Eaton found. Casting further doubt on the argument that “runaway juries” fueled by emotions

University Hospital physician, Dr. Randolph R. Smith, M.D. (Left) and Edward L. Burr, vice president of legal affairs for University Hospital. are causing the insurance crisis, Eaton found that the highest monetary awards in medical malpractice cases were given in bench trials — that is, trials heard by judges, not juries. “Which is counterintuitive (to the argument put forth by tort reform advocates) and we’re not the only study that found that,” Eaton said. “A study that used national data arrived at the same outcome.” Burr, however, doesn’t think that proves much. “The fact that jury verdicts are often less than bench verdicts doesn’t surprise me at all,” Burr said. “The reason why we ask for tort reform is that it’s totally unpredictable what juries are going to do. And so, you may have 10 jury verdicts that if a jury gave $85,000, the judge would have given $100,000. Then, you have that one jury verdict where a judge would have given $250,000 and the jury awards $25 million. And it’s those cases that are the killers for the insurance companies, because they’re exposed to that huge amount of liability.” But Eaton’s study found that, during the four-year period he analyzed, the highest award given in a medical malpractice case was $14.9 million. More important, Eaton said, was the median jury award in medical malpractice cases. For instance, in state court, although the

KEN DAVIS

Ken Davis is a best-selling author, frequent radio and television guest, and one of the country’s most popular inspirational and motivational speakers. His mixture of side-splitting humor and inspiration delights and enriches audiences of all ages. He is a featured speaker for Promise Keepers and a frequent guest on Focus on the Family.

Sunday, March 2, 2003 8:30 & 11:00 AM I-20 at Belair Road (Exit 194) 706-868-6410 www.nhwc.org

average award was $101,000, the median award was $5,650, meaning half of jury awards were for less than $6,000, Eaton said. The same applied in superior court, where the average award was $54,298, but the median was $7,859, Eaton said. Again, Burr thinks that data overlooks the heart of the issue, essentially, that for an insurer, the one $14.9 million verdict can instantly render irrelevant the fact that much smaller awards have occurred up until then. “The problem with that analysis is, ‘median’ is basically about the best insurance companies could hope to do in establishing a premium,” Burr said. “And when you have those awards that are way out of the median, which drives the average to be way disparate from the median, who’s paying that? The insurance companies are. So they have to then reach out to everybody else and spread their risk.” Eaton, however, thinks the real problem is not the huge payouts incurred by insurance companies, but where those insurance companies have invested their premiums in anticipation of filed claims. “You don’t have to write for the financial page to know what has happened in the stock and bond market over the past several years,” Eaton said. “The rate of return on the premium investment has been dismal.” Although Eaton acknowledges his study

is already dated by several years, he said he doubts the assertions made by insurance companies that there has been a drastic rise in medical malpractice litigants in the last year or two. Eaton said one has only to go back and look at the record of the past several decades in order to prove his point that insurance companies have caused their own crisis. “The first medical malpractice crisis was in the mid-‘70s, following a period of recession. The second medical malpractice crisis was in the mid-‘80s, following a period of recession,” Eaton said. “We didn’t have a medical malpractice crisis in the mid-‘90s, during the Clinton Administration, when everybody was making money hand-over-fist in the stock market. “The third round of medical malpractice insurance crisis is coming at a time when the stock market has been performing at its worst since the Depression. That is not a coincidence.” All Injuries the Same? For Eaton, however, the real crux of the matter is, how much is a physical injury worth and who shall be the arbiter of that decision? That’s a question also on the mind of Mark Tate, the Savannah attorney who represented the Zionkowskis. In Lily Zionkowski’s case, “a jury should say that’s terrible,” Tate said. “And the decision as to the value of what that doctor has caused this girl to suffer should be left to the enlightened conscience of 12 jurors,” Tate added. “I guess the question is, why should the insurance industry decide, before they see any facts or evidence regarding any individual, what that person’s value of life is? So that’s the problem. “I think probably the more serious thing is, you’re a reporter. You can go into a hospital and have your legs amputated as a result of malpractice and have absolutely no economic loss. Now, are you willing for me to take your legs and give you $250,000? That is what we’re talking about. That’s why the bill is wrong-headed for the truly injured people.” Burr, however, can take that argument to its opposite extreme, adding that the proposed cap on damage awards wouldn’t affect as many cases as some people are being led to believe. For instance, in the 16 years he’s been at University, Burr said, there might have been one case that would continued on page 20

presents

GAMBLE TO GAMBOL A Casino Night Event where you Gamble with play money & win real prizes with which to Gambol (frolic or play).

DATE: Friday, March 14, 2003 TIME: 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. LOCATION: The Old Medical College on Telfair Street TICKET PRICE: $35 per person* ATTIRE: Dressy (Black tie optional) INFORMATION: 733-2512

*price includes $2,000 worth of play money, heavy hors d’ouvres, live entertainment and a guaranteed chance at three fabulous raffle prizes such as a $1,500 travel gift certificate, cash and jewelry.

INSPIRING ALL GIRLS TO BE STRONG, SMART & BOLD

Wherever you go, you're always at home.

Parts • Accessories • New and Pre-Owned Units • LP Station 10 Bay Service Area • Dumping Station

3 8 4 4 WA S H I N GTO N R O A D • M A R T I N E Z , G A 3 0 9 0 7 • 8 6 3 - 6 2 9 4 *Base price $4,951, 10% down, 12.25% interest. 60 months on approved credit. Plus tax, tag and title.

Bo ttl e

Op en er

ls •

Sa la d

Bo w

•

s• sa l a SM

Wherever you go, you're always at home.

Selling Fun Since 1968

Wherever you go, you're always at home.

EVERYTHING ON SALE!

ackers • Tapenades • Cr

Friday & Saturday 9-6 Special Hours Sunday 2-5

Wherever you go, you're always at home.

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 7-10

•O l i v es •

3626 Walton Way • 706.738.6125

Wherever you go, you're always at home. Wherever you go, you're always at home.

35th Anniversary Spring Open House Sale

s ard •C

Food & Gift Emporium

www.copies2u.com • Call (706) 738-8282

Look What’s Coming!

Copies2u Printing SM

•C hu tne ys

ils • Vinegars • Bread Dippers • Jellies • Jams • s•O p i Ch

• Rubber Stamps • Flyers/Brochures • Custom Invitations • Laminating & More

Pa pe rg o od

• Copying Service • Business Cards • Offset Printing • Banners & Signs • Labels & Forms

Springtime

• Table Cloths • Pottery • Casseroles Dishe s•

WE PICK UP AND DELIVER FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS.

s• at em lac •P

Best prices in Augusta!

We come to you - pick up & delivery -

y ra •T

Fast! Easy! High Quality!

s se as Gl

s in pk Na il ta ck Co

BUSINESS CARDS

TUESDAYS

WAYNE CAPPS All Night

WITH CRAB LEGS $6.99/LB

HAPPY HOUR

MONDAY-THURSDAY 5-8PM

RIVERWATCH PARKWAY TO FURY’S FERRY ROAD WINN DIXIE MARKET PLACE

855-5111

Augusta's

Best Restaurant Overall

• Best Desserts • Best Beer Selection • Friendliest Service Get a taste of New Orleans

NOW OFFERING LUNCHEON DELIVERIES!

Surrey Center 737-4865

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Wherever you go, you're always at home. Wherever you go, you're always at home. SM

20 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

CHURCH OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY “Georgia’s Oldest Catholic Church” Located in Downtown Augusta Corner of 8th and Telfair Streets Schedule of Liturgies:

Daily Mass: Mon-Fri 12:15 PM Sat 10:00 AM Sunday Mass: Vigil 5:00 PM 7:45 AM, 10:00AM & 12:30 PM Reconciliation 3:30-4:30 PM Sat Miraculous Medal Novena following Monday’s 12:15 PM Mass Solemn Exposition & Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament following Thursday’s 12:15 PM Mass-4PM Daily Rosary Mon-Fri following daily Mass

Phone: 706.722.4944 • Fax: 706.722.7774 www.themostholytrinity.org

ALL ARE WELCOME!

“It’ll (tort reform) affect most medical malpractice attorneys, because it will take away from them that one case in their career that could turn them into a multi-millionaire. They won’t be able to do that anymore.” — Edward L. Burr, vice president of legal affairs for University Hospital

continued from page 18 have been impacted by the proposed $250,000 cap. “It’s rare that you can think of a significant physical impairment that wouldn’t have economic damage components,” Burr said. “And the point there, again, is to try and bridle this issue of a jury just going crazy — you know, looking at somebody who, because of some medical misadventure, ends up having his little finger amputated. “That’s going to be a physical impairment? No doubt. Is that something that a jury should be allowed to award $6 million for? I don’t think so. And so, I think he’s (Tate), in proverbial language, blowing smoke on that issue.” Burr argues that the real people who would lose out if tort reform legislation passed are the trial lawyers. “It’ll affect most medical malpractice attorneys, because it will take away from them that one case in their career that could turn them into a multi-millionaire,” Burr said. “They won’t be able to do that anymore.” But Eaton and Tate both argue that trial lawyers typically turn down far more medical malpractice cases than they accept. For one, they say, it costs a lot of up-front money to take such a case to trial, owing, in part, to the task of gathering documentation and testimony from medical experts. And for another, lawyers in medical malpractice cases typically work on a contingency basis and only get paid if they win, meaning they have to be selective in the cases they take. Tate, for instance, estimates his firm went forward with only two medical malpractice cases out of a potential 75 in 2002. Eaton also finds fault with the logic that the subjective nature of pain and suffering

awards should cause them to be minimized or done away with. He said he can think of at least one case in which the tangible, economic losses were virtually nil, but the lifelong emotional damages arguably carried a hefty price tag, regardless of what attorneys got paid. Eaton referred to the Dalkon Shield fiasco in which a defective birth control device marketed in the 1970s resulted in the sterilization of roughly 400,000 women. “Now, their lost income from being sterile is zero. There may be some medical expenses. But far and away, the real harm to those people was emotional,” Eaton said. “How do you place a dollar value on inability to reproduce? Serious burn victims are going to go through a life of agony. Is $250,000 adequate for that? I don’t have an answer to that. I don’t know anybody who does have an answer to that. But the objection to the cap is that it places an artificial limitation on how to completely compensate somebody who has suffered a serious loss.” More Physician Scrutiny Urged Of course, caught somewhere between this lawyerly debate and wrangling between insurance companies and medical practitioners, is the consumer. Critics of tort reform maintain that legislation which could effectively shield physicians from large jury awards, might also encourage them to be more lax in their treatment of patients and less repentant should they make a mistake. The bill recently introduced in the Georgia General Assembly does include a provision for increased sharing of information on physicians and hospitals, with the premise that it would improve patient care.

Reader Responds to Abortion Story See Page 8

Currently, however, there is no way for consumers to peruse their physician’s track record. Tony and Susie Zionkowski are quick to point out that the doctor they sued for allegedly botching Lily’s delivery still practices in the area. The National Practitioners Database does cite litigation filed against individual physicians, but the information is only available to hospitals and other physicians for purposes of employment screening. In some states, such as California, where tort reform legislation has been in place since the late 1970s, state-run databases are available to the public on the Internet that list complaints filed against physicians, along with the resulting outcomes of the cases. In his 26 years of practicing at University Hospital, Dr. Randolph R. Smith, M.D., a plastic surgeon who also serves on the hospital’s board of trustees, has had three lawsuits filed against him. In all three instances the lawyers withdrew their cases because they were determined to have no merit, Smith said. However, Smith grudgingly notes, his lawyer’s fees still had to be paid. “I won, but in a sense, I lost,” Smith said. “My insurance carrier paid my lawyer’s fees. That’s the way this thing works.” Smith said he doesn’t have a problem with a public-accessible list of judgments and complaints filed against physicians, but argues that, by the very nature of an imperfect world, his name could easily have appeared on such a list through those meritless claims against him. “Many, many, many good doctors get sued. And the fact that they’ve been sued doesn’t mean they aren’t a good doctor,” Smith said. “So, while I feel like the public ought to have access to a list, you should be very careful about what you interpret from it.” Although the Zionkowskis think improving the availability of background information on physicians would be a fair compromise if tort reform legislation were passed, they hate to think what their situation would be like had a damages cap been in place. As Tate, their attorney, notes, the current wording of the bill has plenty of wiggle room for insurance companies, hospitals and doctors to roll over victims. “And the fact of the matter is, the bill, as it is proposed ... it says pain and suffering, but it also says damages for physical impairment,” Tate said. “And Susie, and Lily and Tony Zionkowski were compensated because of Lily’s physical impairment. “The courts will interpret it the way it’s written, and if it says ‘cap for physical impairment’ it’s a cap for physical impairment, regardless of whether you say it’s economic, non-economic or call it a yellow dog.” And if the stakes were lowered in terms of accountability for a doctor who injures his or her patient, Susie Zionkowski thinks the legal system may begin to have less regard for medical malpractice victims. Not to say her experience wasn’t bad enough. “The worst part I think was, they (defense lawyers) never actually saw her (Lily),” Susie Zionkowski said. “They never asked to see her. “She wasn’t anything to them but a nuisance and a name on a piece of paper.”

✔ Expert Income Tax Preparation Federal and All States • Individuals, Businesses and Corporations Reasonable Rates

✔ Free Electronic Filing Free Electronic Filing when we prepare your Federal, Georgia and South Carolina returns

✔ Refund Loans

Full Service Bookkeeping • Payroll and Quarterly Reports Consulting for new business start ups • Incorporation Service Computer & Account Software • Certified Quick Books Consultant

LA PETITE PLAZA • 3850 WASHINGTON ROAD, MARTINEZ (BETWEEN BOJANGLES AND THE FIRE STATION)

860-5498

15th Annual

ARTS & CR AFTS FESTIVAL Producers of Christmas Made in the South®

Augusta Civic Center 601 Seventh St. Augusta, GA

March 7-9

Fri. 10-8 • Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 11-5

Admission with This Ad! Limit one discount per ticket.

F E B

2 0 0 3

✔ Business Services

50¢ OFF

S P I R I T

2 7

W-2/1099 Preparation

Adults - $5.00 • Children 12 & Under - Free One Admission Good for All 3 Days with hand stamp!

M E T R O

See Georgia’s most unique seletion of gifts for every occassion with decorative accessories for your home from hundreds of contemporary and traditional artists and craftsmen! Get ready for SPRINGTIME as an array of treasures await you!!

22 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Arts

& Entertainment

Go Back in Time to Yesterday

BY LISA JORDAN

f Beatles tribute act Yesterday performs onstage with as much enthusiasm as they record an outgoing message, Augustans looking for a Beatles fix are in for a fun-filled evening March 7. The answering machine wasn’t the only member of Yesterday we heard from – John Lennon – uh, Don Bellezzo – returned the call to let us know just what to expect when Yesterday comes to town. Their Web site pulses with as much energy as their answering machine. Overflowing with colorful graphics, psychedelic fonts and yes, flashing icons, Yesterday’s site lists the band’s many accomplishments. It’s a resume as long as your arm. First of all, there’s the grueling tour schedule. The band has shows booked nearly every weekend, all over the United States. In addition to those dates, Yesterday has played throughout Europe and Asia, including at the famed Cavern Club in Liverpool, England. And Yesterday has shared the stage with acts such as Davy Jones, Lovin’ Spoonful, America, Chicago, Peter Noone, Heart, The Moody Blues and Mitch Ryder, to name a few. Members have been featured in Hollywood films like “The Beverly Hillbillies” and “When a Man Loves a Woman.” They’ve also performed at professional sports pre-shows, benefits, and on the television show “Your Big Break,” where contestants perform decked out as their favorite musicians. But that’s what Yesterday does best, boasting authentic costumes, mop tops and Liverpudlian accents. Their resemblance to the original Fab Four is so uncanny, it’s rumored, that Yesterday even sends teenage girls into hysterics that rival those of their mothers during the height of the British Invasion. “It’s become part of the music to me. It’s all one in the same thing,” said Bellezzo. “Learning the song and learning the moves and everything that goes with it.” Onstage, Bellezzo becomes Lennon, Davey Justice becomes Paul McCartney, Monte Mann becomes George Harrison and Dick Cunico becomes Ringo Starr. According to numerous concert reviews, Bellezzo has perfectly captured Lennon’s mannerisms and attitude, while Justice bears a striking physical resemblance to McCartney. “This is the world’s number one Beatles

tribute band,” said Greg Goodwin, executive director of the Imperial Theatre. “I think it’s fantastic that we’re getting them here.” A Yesterday show is a two-part affair. The first half of the show features the band dressed as the Beatles did for their historic appearance on the Ed Sullivan show. After an intermission and costume change, the boys reemerge in Sgt. Pepper suits and mustaches. For their Augusta show, Yesterday is scheduled to mix it up by performing hits from the Beatles, Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers. “I just think it’s going to be a fantastic evening,” Goodwin said. “Now they’ve got this Buddy Holly and Everly Brothers thing.” For those portions of the concert, he said, Yesterday will use costumes to transform themselves into those performers as well. “We’re the only act in the entire country that does the Everly Brothers,” Bellezzo said. “It was just a way of expanding what we’re doing, and the Everly Brothers were very

influential with the Beatles.” Yesterday is performing in Augusta as the grand finale in a series of events coinciding with the Augusta Museum of History’s “Thirty Years of Rock and Roll: Photography by Larry Hulst” exhibit. While previous performers set up shop at the museum, Yesterday takes the stage at the Imperial Theatre at 8 p.m. March 7. Classic cars will also be parked at the museum and at the Imperial Theatre the night of the show to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time for real. The museum is the site of a VIP party that starts at 6:30 p.m. and is catered by D. Timm’s Jazz Café. VIP tickets are $36 and include center orchestra and center mezzanine seating for the show and tickets to the VIP party. “For the reception at the Augusta Museum of History, they’re going to go down there and do one or two songs before the show,” said Goodwin. And since so much is included in the VIP ticket price, those are already selling fast.

“There’s only 200 of those tickets,” he said. “(People) need to go ahead and get their tickets quick – those are the ones that are selling now.” Other ticket options are also on sale: It’s $20 for orchestra and mezzanine seating, $15 for first balcony seating and $12 for second balcony seating. All proceeds from the concert benefit the Augusta Museum of History and the Imperial Theatre. “This is a joint effort by both of us,” Goodwin said. “I knew (the Augusta Museum of History) was doing the rock ‘n’ roll exhibit. We thought, ‘Well, wouldn’t it be a great idea to have some kind of show and marry the two?’ And I think it’s perfect for what they are doing.” For tickets, call or stop by the Imperial Theatre box office at 722-8341 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. You can also purchase tickets online at www.imperialtheatre.com.

MUSIC

22 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Arts

& Entertainment

Go Back in Time to Yesterday

BY LISA JORDAN

MUSIC

Stage 1: March 9, 16, 23 and 30 Sunday Morning Pulpit Exchange Four pastors from First Baptist, Good Shepard, Trinity on the Hill, and Reid Memorial will rotate pulpits all month and preach on themes related to C.S. Lewis.

A FOUR-WEEK ADVENTURE IN

FOUR

AUGUSTA CHURCHES

Stage 2: Sunday Nights, Join together at FBC (Nursery Provided)

For Adults and Youth: 6-7 PM March 9 - Dr. Maurice Boyd March 16 - Rev. Perry Bramlett March 23 - Dr. Stan Mattson March 30 - Roar of Love For Children ages 5 thru 5th grade: 5:45-7 PM - Activities Building A four-part multimedia presentation on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Stage 3: Wednesday Nights, All Churches March 12, 26, April 2 Mrs. Jane Howington, Mere Christianity Dr. Jerry Howington The Chronicles of Narnia Dr. Wayne Hunsucker Screwtape Letters Dr. Rodger Murchison A Grief Observed At FBC - March 19, 6-7 PM

Dr. Earl Palmer Lewis specialist

Stage 4: At FBC Thursday, March 13, 7PM C.S. Lewis On Stage A one-man play featuring Tom Key Stage 5: C.S. Lewis “The Oxford Years”

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF AUGUSTA THE CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD REID MEMORIAL PRESBYTERIAN TRINITY ON THE HILL

For Reservations call 733-2236 Senior Adult Luncheon at FBC Tuesday, March 11, 11AM

FOR MORE INFORMATION: FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 706-733-2236 WWW.FBCAUGUSTA.ORG

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

24 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Days A Week

Arts

Auditions

OPEN AUDITIONS FOR “MURDER AT RUTHERFORD HOUSE” interactive murder mystery production by Stage III March 2, 3 p.m. and March 3, 7 p.m. Auditions held at 517 Granite Point in Mar tinez. Four men and four women ages 25-60 are needed and performances are May 1-4. 868-9663. COWPARADE ATLANTA 2003 CALL TO ARTISTS interested in painting one of 200 life-sized fiberglass cows to decorate Atlanta this summer. Professional and amateur ar tists from throughout Georgia are welcome to submit designs for consideration. Deadline for submissions is March 28. For more information, call (404) 898-2915 or visit the Cow Parade Atlanta Web site at www.cowparadeatlanta.com. AUGUSTA CHILDREN’S CHORALE AUDITIONS for training and per formance choirs open to children in grades 3-8. Auditions held March 1 and May 3. Call 826-4718 to schedule an audition appointment. 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

CLAY POT PAINTING CLASSES with local ar tist Denise Zemora at the Ma xwell Branch Library. Beginner class is March 1, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; intermediate class is March 15, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; advanced class is March 29, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $2 fee. For registration information, call 793-2020. 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. 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 722-5495. 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. The Ar t Factory also has a homeschool program and scholarships are available. Spring session runs March 10-May 24, and includes voice lesson and pantomime workshops, as well as classes in dance, theater, music, visual ar ts and writing. Call 731-0008 for details.

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.

Exhibitions

PHOTOGRAPHY AND MIXED-MEDIA PIECES BY SHELLY SCHMIDT will be on display at the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame in Aiken March 4-30. An ar tist reception is planned for March 9, 2-5 p.m. The public is welcome to at tend. For more information, call (803) 642-7650. "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. “WALTON’S REFLECTIONS: 30 DAYS OF CREATIVE EXPRESSION” features the winning pieces from the Georgia Ar tists With Disabilities 2002-2003 Exhibition, as well as works by local disabled ar tists. Exhibit opening is March 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Marbury Center. The ar twork will be on display at Walton Rehabilitation Hospital, 1355 Independence Drive, March 10-28. Open to the public and free of charge; however, donations to the Walton Foundation Fund will be accepted. Call 826-5809 for info.

Aiken artist Shelly Schmidt exhibits photography and mixed-media works at the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame March 4-30. A reception will be held March 9, 25 p.m. (803) 642-7650. awards presentation on March 5, 4-5:30 p.m., is free and open to the public. Call 722-5495 for more information. “WALKING THE LOG: PAINTINGS BY BESSIE NICKENS” exhibit will be at the Morris Museum of Ar t March 1-May 18. March 13 opening reception includes an informal discussion about Nickens’ work with the museum’s executive director, Kevin Grogan. Fee for non-members is $3 adult, $2 seniors, students and the military. Members’ preview and reception to follow. For more information, call 724-7501.

“COLLAGE WORKS: MELINDA MOORE LAMPKIN AND LUCY WEIGLE” features pieces by two local ar tists. The exhibit will be on display at the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t through March 14. Call 722-5495 for more information. AT THE GERTRUDE HERBERT INSTITUTE OF ART: “Recent Works From Youth and Adult Students of the Ger trude Herber t” on display through March 31. Call 722-5495 for more information.

Dance

AIKEN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ART SHOW in the Upper Gallery at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center March 3-April 7. For information, call (803) 641-3305.

ARTWORK BY BING DAVIS will be on exhibit at the Lucy Craf t Laney Museum of Black History March 1-30. Opening reception will be held March 2, 3-5 p.m. For information, call the museum at 724-3576.

12TH ANNUAL STOMP-A-RAMA GREEK STEPSHOW March 1, 7:25 p.m., at the Bell Auditorium. For more information, call 722-3521.

THE SOUTH CAROLINA QUILT SHOW will be at the Aiken County Historical Museum March 8-April 6. Walk-through and reception will be held at 2 p.m. March 8. For information, call (803) 642-2015 or (803) 642-2017.

THE ARTWORK OF MALAIKA FAVORITE will be on display in the Reese Library at Augusta State University through March 11. For more information, visit www.aug.edu/library/cullum2003.

THE AUGUSTA INTERNATIONAL FOLK DANCE CLUB meets Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m. No par tners are needed and newcomers are welcome. Line and circle dances are taught. For location information, call 737-6299.

DUANE BROWN PHOTO EXHIBIT at the Cotton Exchange now through the end of March. For more information, call 724-4067.

PAINTINGS BY DANIEL HAYES will be on display at the Euchee Creek Library during the month of March. 556-0594.

ROBERT BAZEMORE JR. AND ART ROSENBAUM EXHIBITION Feb. 28-April 19 at Mar y Pauline Galler y. Opening reception to be held Feb. 28, 5-8 p.m. For information, call 724-9542.

THE PAINTINGS OF JULIE ADAMS will be on display at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center through March 1. Free and open to the public. For info, call (803) 641-3305.

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.

ART BY STUDENTS OF CAROL KELLY DORN will be at the Gibbs Library throughout March. 863-1946. PHOTO-BASED SCULPTURE BY SHANNON EVANS will be the first exhibition in the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t’s new third-floor exhibition spaces. Evans’ work will be on display through March 28, with an ar tist reception 5-6:30 p.m. March 13. 722-5495. AGNES MARKWALTER YOUTH ART COMPETITION: In celebration of National Youth Ar t Month, ar twork from students in the CSRA will be on display at the First and Third Floor Galleries at Ware’s Folly. March 5-28. Opening reception and

“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” concer t featuring a Beatles tribute band wraps things up March 8 at the Imperial Theatre. For information, call 722-8454. MARTHA SIMKINS SPECIAL EXHIBITION at the Morris Museum of Ar t through April 20. Call the museum at 7247501 for more information.

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

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

“THE MUSIC OF HANDEL” will be per formed by the Augusta Collegium Musicum at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church March 9, 4 p.m. Soloists Keith Shafer, Barbara Hancock, Christine Wildes and Michael Budd will also per form. General admission is $10, and students and patrons are admit ted free of charge. For more information, call 733-5619. JOSEF HOFMANN PIANO COMPETITION AND FESTIVAL March 13-15 at USC-Aiken. (803) 641-3305. THE SANTA FE GUITAR QUARTET per forms March 7, 8 p.m. as par t of ASU’s Lyceum Series and the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society 2002-2003 season. Call the ASU Office of Student Activities at 737-1609. JAZZ BAND CONCERT March 11, 7 p.m. at Davidson Fine Ar ts School Commons. Free admission. Call 823-6924, ex t. 111 for information. CLEON MAULDIN MEMORIAL CONCERT will be presented by the Augusta Concer t Band March 9, 7 p.m., at the ASU Performing Ar ts Theatre. Saxophonist Wayne Hoey is the special guest performer. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for seniors, children and military personnel. (803) 202-0091. TERRI GIBBS per forms a worship concer t March 9, 6 p.m., at First Baptist Church of Evans. There is no admission charge, but a love offering will be accepted. Call 863-1228 for information. AUGUSTA SYMPHONY’S ENCORE CHAMBER SERIES comes to a close March 8, 8 p.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Hall on Walton Way Ex t. The Symphony’s String Quar tet and Woodwind Trio will be highlighted. Admission is $15 for adults, $7.50 for students. For tickets, call 826-4705. THE MILLER-LOWRY DUO will per form a concer t for trumpet and organ at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Reception to follow. For information, call 733-6627. ERIC CHU per forms the “Trout Quintet” by Schuber t as par t of USC-Aiken’s Mauldin series March 6 at 7 p.m. Concer t will be held at USC-Aiken’s Etherredge Center. For ticket information, phone (803) 641-3305. THE THREE IRISH TENORS per form at the Newberry Opera House March 22. The H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken has scheduled a bus trip to the show. $45 per person fee includes ticket and transpor tation. Registration and payment is due by March 3. for information, call (803) 642-7631. “LEGENDS OF YESTERDAY” CONCERT March 8, 8 p.m., at the Imperial Theatre. Beatles tribute band will per form songs by the Beatles, Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers. VIP tickets are $36 and include 6:30 p.m. private reception at the Augusta Museum of History; other ticket prices range from $12-$20. All proceeds go to the Augusta Museum of History and the Imperial Theatre. To purchase tickets, visit www.imperialtheatre.com or call 722-8341. 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 823-0620. 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. 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: March 4, The Augusta Children’s Chorale; March 18, Kari Gaffney and Jeff Williams. 722-3463. 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, 228-3200.

Theater

“THE BUTLER DID IT” will be performed at the Abbeville Opera House March 7-8, 14-15, and 21-22 with matinee perform-

ances March 8 and 15. For reservations, call (864) 459-2157. “PORGY AND BESS” comes to USC-Aiken’s Cultural Series at the Etherredge Center March 7, 8 p.m. Call (803) 641-3305. “WHAT A MAN WANTS, WHAT A WOMAN NEEDS” will be per formed at the Bell Auditorium March 9, 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.50 for the floor or $21.50 for the balcony, with a $2 discount for groups of 20 or more. Call the box office at 722-3521 for information. “A FLEA IN HER EAR” at the Aiken Community Playhouse’s Washington Center for the Per forming Ar ts. Per formances are Feb. 28, March 1, 7-9 and 14-15. Friday and Saturday per formances 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. 27-28 and March 1 at the Bon Air Ballroom. Tickets are $15 adult, $10 seniors, students and matinees. For tickets, call 481-9040. “WHEN THE REAPER CALLS” Feb. 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. Call 793-8552 for reservations.

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; $3.50 for children (4 to 12); free for children 3 and under. Sundays are two for one with a Super Sunday coupon. Annual garden memberships are available. Call 724-4443 or 1-888-874-4443. Also, visit their Web site at www.gghf.org. 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, 1-800-3255445 or visit their Web site at www.NationalScienceCenter.org.

} } i } { <} { < FINAL MARKDOWNS NOW UP TO

SURREY CENTER 706.736.7793 MON-SAT 10-6

75% OFF ALL FALL & WINTER SHOES & BOOTS

i {}< {}< } }

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.

Make

Everyday a

Honeymoon

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. 724-4067. 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

“TERRA COGNITA: CONTEMPORARY VISUAL EXPRESSIONS IN THE SOUTH, A CONVERSATION WITH BESSIE NICKENS” at the Morris Museum of Ar t 6 p.m. March 13. Admission is $3 adults, $2 seniors, students and the mili-

Romantic Getaway Packages Honeymoon Suites King & Queen Rooms Private Fireplaces Whirlpool Tubs Gift Certificates Available 312-334 Greene Street, Augusta, GA 30901

(706) 724-3454

25 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

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

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.

Drug or Alcohol Problems?

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.

Call Augusta Steppingstones to Recovery

2 7

An outpatient counseling service dedicated to the relief of individuals & families suffering from Alcohol or Drug Problems

2 0 0 3

1701 Wrightsboro Rd Augusta, GA 30904

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

733-1935

▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼

Voted Best Steak In Augusta For 15 Years 1987-2002

The March 4 installment of Tuesday’s Music Live features the Augusta Children’s Chorale. The performance begins at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at noon. tary. Free for ASU faculty and students and museum members. Reception to follow the lecture is free for members and $10 for non-members. 724-7501. 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 African-American scientists and inventors. Call 821-0224 for details.

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

▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼

Aiken Community Playhouse PRESENTS

February 28 March 1, 7, 8,14 & 15 at 8 p.m. Sunday March 9 at 3 p.m. Directed by Thurmond Whatley

For Reservations Call 803-648-1438

Tuesday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Washington Center for the Performing Arts 124 Newberry Street • Aiken www.atlantic.net/~acp

Tanning $25 a month

unlimited visits Full Line of Tanning Products

10% Off Tanning Lotions

Mane Attraction

712 Bohler Avenue 706-364-4323 off Walton Way behind Ga Power

“MASTERWORKS OF SOUTHERN ART” TOUR March 9, 2 p.m., at the Morris Museum of Art. Free admission. 724-7501. MORRIS MUSEUM OF ART GALA March 7 at the museum. Tickets for the black-tie event are $175 per person. For reservations, call 724-7501. ARTRAGEOUS SUNDAY! BEHIND THE MASQUE March 2, 2 p.m., at the Morris Museum of Ar t. Jugglers, actors, dancers, fire-breathers, drummers, puppets, mimes, living statues and more will enter tain adults and children. Free admission. Phone 724-7501. AUGUSTA MUSEUM OF HISTORY BROWN BAG HISTORY SERIES March 5 at noon. Jack B. Hatcher will give a presentation on the history of Harlem. Program is free to members and $2 for non-members. Bring your lunch and the museum provides a beverage and desser t. Reservations required by March 4; 722-8454. “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. 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

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. 27, "W.E.B. Dubois," "American Civil Rights Movement." Sponsored by the Student National Dental Association at MCG. For information, call 721-3587 or 627-3054. AFRICAN-AMERICAN FASHION PARADE Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m.-noon at the Senior Citizens Council of Greater Augusta and the CSRA. For more information, call 826-4480. THE AIKEN DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION hosts the Spring Sidewalk Sale in downtown Aiken Feb. 27March 1. (803) 649-2221. FREE TAX ASSISTANCE AND TAX PREPARATION at Volunteer Income Ta x Assistance sites throughout Augusta. Contact the Mayor’s Office for Workforce Development at 821-1834. ADULT SCRABBLE NIGHT at the Gibbs Library March 10, 68 p.m. All levels of play are welcome; bring a board. Registration required. Call 863-1946. JULIANNE MALVEAUX will be the guest speaker for Augusta State University’s Lyceum Series Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m., at the Ma xwell Per forming Ar ts Theatre. Free and open to the public; for more information, call the ASU Office of Student Activities at 737-1609. ASU WOMEN’S STUDIES PROGRAM WOMEN’S WEEK EVENTS: “A Voice of My Own,” 7 p.m. Feb. 27-28 at Butler Lecture Hall; showing of “Antonia’s Line” and panel discussion, 7 p.m. March 3 at Butler Lecture Hall; “Lysistrata Project: A Theatrical Act of Dissent,” 7 p.m. March 3 at 3501 Walton Way Ex t., $5 donation suggested; “She Speaks” spoken word presentation by the Garden City Writers, 7 p.m. March 4 at Washington Hall Towers. For information, contact Pamela Hayward at phayward@aug.edu or 729-2048. SPRINGTIME MADE IN THE SOUTH will be at the AugustaRichmond County Civic Center March 7-9. Fine ar t, pottery, stained glass, jewelry, spring florals, decorative garden accessories and more will be on display. Admission is $5. For more information, call the civic center box office at 722-3521. SPEAKER IMAM EARL ABDUL MALIK MOHAMMED, president of the World Council on Religion and Peace, will deliver a public address March 13, 7-9 p.m. in the main auditorium of Washington Hall on the ASU campus. For more information, contact the Muslim Community Center of Augusta at 481-8007. HEALTH CAREERS OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM is accepting applications for its six-week summer academic enrichment program through April 1. The program is designed to provide students from underrepresented groups and/or disadvantaged backgrounds with an oppor tunity to enter and graduate from schooling in health professions. Open to qualified rising high school seniors and pre-college freshmen interested in pursing a healthcare career. 821-8203. PAINE COLLEGE UPWARD BOUND, a summer session designed to improve academic performance and increase motivational levels among students, is accepting applications for the program through March 7. Project participants must be potential first-generation college students enrolled in high school in Richmond County and meet the U.S. Department of Education’s parental income and educational background guidelines. Interested high school freshmen and sophomores should contact their school’s guidance counselor or call 821-8210. MARCH FILM SERIES at Headquar ters Library Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. March 4 screening of “12 Monkeys,” March 11 screening of “The Last Picture Show,” March 18 screening of “Colonel Effingham’s Raid,” March 25 screening of “Bottle Rocket.” For information, call 821-2600. SWAMP SATURDAY at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park March 1,

9:30 a.m. Volunteer educators lead guests on a two-and-a-half mile walk through the park. Dress appropriately for the weather and for walking; cameras and binoculars are welcome. Free; donations accepted. For information, call 828-2109. HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS TICKETS NOW ON SALE through TicketMaster. The Globetrot ters will be at the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center March 13, 7 p.m. Ticket prices range from $13-$41. Order online at www.ticketmaster.com or call 828-7700. “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. “AROUND THE DAY IN 80 WORLDS” FOREIGN FILM FESTIVAL continues at USC-Aiken Feb. 28 with a 6 p.m. showing of “Monsoon Wedding.” For more information, call (803) 641-3448. 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.” On March 4, Rober ta Fernandez speaks on “Multiple Voices of Women Writers in the Borderlands” at 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. in Butler Lecture Hall. On March 11, Margarita Aponte speaks on “Hispanics in the Military” 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.aar f.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

SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST MUSIC AND FILM FESTIVAL March 7-16 in Austin, Texas. For detailed information, call (512) 467-7979 or visit sxsw.com. COTTON PATCH QUILTERS “PIECEFUL HEARTS” QUILT SHOW March 7-9 at the Oconee County Civic Center in Athens, Ga. Admission is $5 adult, $3 kids and free for babies in strollers. Contact Evelyn Hanes, (706) 543-6762. “JULIUS CAESAR” at the New American Shakespeare Tavern in Atlanta March 7-April 6. March 7-9 shows are $10 preview per formances. Tues.-Sat. per formances at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday per formances at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10-$24.50, depending on the day of the week. Group discounts available. Optional British pub-style menu offered one hour and fif teen minutes before the show. For reservations, call (404) 874-5299. ANIMAL ENRICHMENT DAY AT RIVERBANKS ZOO AND GARDEN in Columbia, S.C., March 8 features activities and demonstrations free with paid admission to the zoo. Admission is $8.25 for adults and $5.75 for children ages 3-12. For information, visit www.riverbanks.org or call (803) 779-8717. ADOPTION INFORMATION SESSION March 1, 9:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. at the Independent Adoption Center in Tucker, Ga. Please reserve a place by calling 1-800-385-4016. THE SAVANNAH MUSIC FESTIVAL showcases over 250 ar tists with 10 days of free and ticketed events at venues throughout Savannah. The festival begins Feb. 28 and runs through March 9. For tickets and information, call 1-800-868-FEST. “STOP KISS” will be per formed at the Longstreet Theatre in Columbia, S.C., Feb. 28-March 8. Call (803) 777-2551.

“ROMEO AND JULIET” at the New American Shakespeare Tavern in Atlanta through March 2. Tues.-Sat. per formances at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday per formances at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10-$24.50, depending on the day of the week. Group discounts available. Optional British pub-style menu offered one hour and fif teen minutes before the show. For reservations, call (404) 874-5299. “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.

AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL is in need of dog and cat food, cat lit ter 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 7906836 for information.

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 INTRO TO MAGIC March 8, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the H.O. Weeks Center in Aiken. Open to all ages, but those 6 and under must have a paying adult with them at the class. Cost is $30 per person. (803) 642-7631. INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS Fridays, March 7-28, 9:30-11 a.m. at the Ma xwell Branch Library. Registration required. Call 793-2020.

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.

GRANT WRITING INTERMEDIATE LEVEL WORKSHOP Feb. 28, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Augusta Technical College. Fee is $100 and includes course material, cer tificate, breakfast and lunch snacks. To register, call 210-2547.

“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.

“USING TECHNOLOGY TO HELP TEACH READING AND WRITING TO YOUNG CHILDREN,” an assistive technology workshop, is for those who want to explore different literacy-based sof tware programs. Held March 1, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Washington Hall Towers on the ASU campus. Workshop is good for 6 DHR approved credit hours. Cost is $24. For more information, or to enroll, call ASU’s Born to Read Literacy Center at 733-7043.

“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) 733-HIGH.

Benefits SPRING FLING ON THE SAVANNAH fundraiser for local charities is sponsored by the Mar tinez-Evans Rotary Club. Event is March 8, 7 p.m.-midnight and includes raffle, auctions, live enter tainment and more. Tickets are $35. For more information, call 650-6977. “AN EVENING IN MONTE CARLO” fundraiser for Easter Seals and other community projects is sponsored by the Augusta Junior Woman’s Club. Held March 8, 7 p.m., at the Boathouse Pavilion. Tickets are $50 per couple and $35 per person; cock tail at tire is required. To reserve tickets, call 869-8936. REDUCED PET ADOPTION FEES through Feb. 28 at Augusta-Richmond Count y Animal Control. Fees reduced to $10; donate a bag of dog food, cat food or cat lit ter and take home a new pet for free. Transfers to licensed rescue groups and humane societies will be free of charge. The center is located at 4164 Mack Lane; open Tuesday-Sunday, 1-5 p.m. For information, contact Heather Birdseye at 790-6836. 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

Looking for Something to Do? Check out NightLife on Page 44

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.

“SECRETS TO SUCCESS” FREE CAREER SEMINAR SERIES offered at Goodwill’s Peach Orchard Job Connection March 4, 6 and 8. The series is open to people seeking employment or advancement in their career; it’s also offered in preparation for the Career Connection 2003 fair, held at ASU’s athletic complex March 11, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. To make reservations, call 790-8500.

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.

▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼▼❙▼▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼▼❙▼❙▼

Legends of Yesterday Ticket Prices $12-$36

6:30pm - Sat March 8 - VIP Party - Augusta Museum of History 8pm - Sat March 8 - Concert - Imperial Theatre For tickets: Imperial Theatre Box Office

706-722-8341

On-line: www.imperialtheatre.com Benefitting the Augusta Museum of History & Imperial Theatre Event Sponsors: D. Timm’s Jazz Cafe • The Imperial Theatre •WEKL (Eagle 102.3) Comcast • Augusta Museum of History • The Partridge Inn • The Georgia Council for the Arts & The Greater Augusta Arts Council

Limited Time Only! Chaise Rocker Recliner Retail - $689 • Sale - $479

399

Now $

each or 12 15per permonth month* * or $$

BASIC INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS held Mondays and Wednesdays, March 3-19, 9:30-11 a.m., at the Friedman Branch Library. Registration is required. Call 736-6758. GARDENING SEMINAR ON SEASONAL COLOR BEDS with Aiken hor ticulturist Tom Rapp is scheduled for 9 a.m. March 1 at Newberry Hall. Cost is $20. Register by calling the Aiken Downtown Development Association at (803) 649-2221. “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. 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. USC-AIKEN CONTINUING EDUCATION offers the following courses: Debt Free Living, Computer Courses and more. USC-Aiken also offers Education to Go classes online. Call the Office of Continuing Education at (803) 641-3288. AUGUSTA STATE UNIVERSITY CONTINUING EDUCATION is now offering the following classes: Microsof t Access, Advanced Medical Coding, Stained Glass, SAT Review Courses, Reflexology with Aromatherapy, Ice Skating, Yoga Intensive and more. Also, ASU offers online courses. For more information, call 737-1636 or visit www.ced.aug.edu.

WE MAKE THE ROOMS THAT MAKE A HOME 3511 Wrightsboro Road

(3/10 mile west of Augusta Mall)

Torch award Winner

738-5533 • www.lazboy.com/southeast *

see store for details.

S P I R I T

2 0 0 3

including Buddy Holly & The Everly Brothers

BASIC MICROSOFT WORD CLASS Thursdays, Feb. 27March 27, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Wallace Branch Library. 722-6275.

M E T R O

2 7

- World’s #1 Beatles Tribute Act -

INTRODUCTION TO POWER POINT March 1, 1-3 p.m., at the Wallace Branch Library. Registration is required. Call 722-6275 for information.

F E B

25-379c

“FLOWERS/NEW YORK” PHOTOGR APHY BY JAY STR AUSS will be on display at Steve Wiley Photography in Savannah through March 22. For information, call (912) 234-2777.

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.

▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼▼❙▼▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼❙▼▼❙▼❙▼

SOUTHERN SPRING SHOW at the Charlot te Merchandise Mar t in Charlot te, N.C., through 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.

TECH CONTINUING EDUCATION offers the following 28 AIKEN courses: Introduction to Computers, Windows 2000, Adobe M E T R O

Photoshop, Visual Basic 6.0 Introduction, Health Care Career Courses, Rape Aggression Defense, Professional Cooking, Real Estate Courses, Driver Education and more. Aiken Tech also offers Education to Go classes online. For more information or to register, call (803) 593-9231, ex t. 1230.

S P I R I T

Health

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.

“DIAGNOSTIC TESTS: ALL ABOUT IMAGING” free health edu-

F cation class at the Life Learning Center’s Downtown Division E 2:30 p.m. March 13. To enroll, call 733-0188, ext. 7989. B

2 AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY’S GREAT AMERICAN WEIGH7 IN March 5, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., at area Weight Watchers loca-

tions. The public is invited to at tend and learn their weight,

2 their Body Mass Index and how to lower it if it’s too high. 0 0 For more information, call 1-800-651-6000. 3

Kids

“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.

AUGUSTA MUSEUM OF HISTORY FAMILY FUN DAY March 9 with Ben and Keeter’s Puppets telling the story of Augusta and the Civil War. Held at 2 p.m. in the History Theatre. Free. 722-8454.

CPR AND FIRST AID TRAINING COURSES AT THE AUGUSTA RED CROSS: CPR for the Professional Rescuer Review March 4, 13, 17 and 25, 6-10 p.m. Class is one session. Held at the Augusta Red Cross office, 1322 Ellis St. To register, call 724-8483.

NURSERY RHYMES will be presented by the ASU Born to Read Literacy Center and Patchwork Players at 9, 10 and 11 a.m. March 10. Tickets are $3 per person and seating at the Ma xwell Per forming Ar ts Theatre is on a first come, first serve basis. Call 733-7043.

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. PROJECT LINK COMMUNITY LECTURE SERIES is held the first Tuesday of every month and is sponsored by the MCG 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. March 4 program is entitled “Summer Programs and Options for Af ter-School Care for Children With Special Needs.” 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. UNIVERSITY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM COMMUNITY EDUCATION holds workshops, seminars and classes on a variety of topics: weight and nutrition, women’s health, cancer, dia-

A special exhibition featuring the works of Martha Simkins is still on display at the Morris Museum of Art. betes, 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,

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME WITH IRISH STORYTELLER DAWN HAWKINS at the Ma xwell Branch Library March 12, 10 a.m. For information, call 793-2020. STORYTIME IN THE GARDENS every Tuesday, 4 p.m., March-May. Senior citizens will read favorite children’s stories to kids 8 and under at Hopeland Gardens in Aiken. Bring a blanket or chair and snacks. Free. Rain location is the H.O. Weeks Center. (803) 642-7631. HOMEWORK STUDY SKILLS FOR STUDENTS Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon at Shiloh Comprehensive Community Center. Computers are available. Call 738-0089 for info. ART FOR TOTS FAMILY WORKSHOP March 1, 10-11:30

Loft Living

at the Enterprise Mill

ENTERPRISE MILL 1450 Greene Street • Augusta, Ga 30901 Within walking distance of MCG and the medical complex 706.262.4001 www.enterprisemill.com

Featuring Unique Loft Apartments, Contemporary Office Space, Retail & Restaurant Opportunities, Public Exhibits and Courtyards

at the Ger trude Herber t Institute of Ar t. Toddlers ages 30 a.m., 2-4 and parents explore the creative possibilities of drawing M E T R O

and painting media. Call 722-5495 for information.

PARENT FAIR 2003 8:30 a.m.-noon March 1 at Meadowbrook Elementary School. Speakers will cover various education and discipline topics. Free child care available. For more information or to register, contact Tonya Hankerson S P at 796-4915.

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

736-6229 for details.

F E B AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM at the Smith-Hazel Recreation

Center in Aiken through May, 2-6 p.m. Open to kids ages 5-

2 13. Call (803) 642-7635. 7

2 CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER at the Lucy Craf t Laney 0 Museum of Black History open Monday-Friday, 4:30-6:30 0 p.m., through June. For information, call 724-3576. 3

ACADEMIC HELP AND TUTORING available Saturdays, 2:304:30 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. 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.

Seniors “PREPARATION FOR ADJUSTING TO RETIREMENT AND LATER LIFE” CONFERENCE AND WORKSHOP sponsored by the Senior Citizens Council of Greater Augusta and the CSRA and the Medical College of Georgia’s School of Nursing. Held March 7, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., in the Loblolly Pine Room of Savannah Rapids Pavilion. Registration fee is $10 and includes lunch. To register, call 826-4480, ex t. 200. COMPUTER CLASSES FOR SENIOR CITIZENS Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Shiloh Comprehensive Community Center. For more information, call 738-0089. AARP TAX ASSISTANCE 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. The Maxwell Branch Library also offers this service Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon through April 15. Free; persons over 50 have priority. In-person registration required. Call 793-2020. 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. 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 99:45 a.m., 10-10:45 a.m. or 12:15-1 p.m. $37.50/month. To register, call 733-5959. 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 AIKEN TRIPLE CROWN ROAD RACE features races of varying lengths open to runners of all ages. Held March 8 at the H.O. Weeks Activities Center in Aiken. Profits suppor t high school track programs. For more information, call (803) 648-7042 or visit www.runaiken.com. INTRODUCTORY AND DROP-IN CLIMBING Fridays, 5:306:30 p.m., at the Virginia Acres Park Climbing Wall in Aiken. Cost is $5 per session. Call (803) 642-7631 for information. ADULT SPRING SOFTBALL in Aiken is open to men and women. Organizational meetings are March 4, fees and rosters are due March 25 and league play begins in April. For more information, contact Jason Burke at (803) 643-4664. 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 733-1030. IN-LINE HOCKEY CLINIC AND LEAGUE REGISTRATION: Inline hockey clinic sponsored by the Family Y held March 1 at the Abilene Baptist Church parking lot; registration for in-line hockey league and hockey school held through March 5 at the Family Y’s Marshall Branch. For information, call 364-FAMY. 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 722-8326 for more information. SPRING SOFTBALL LEAGUES for men and women now forming at Citizens Park in Aiken. Open to adults 18 and older. Fees and rosters due March 18; play begins April 21. Call (803) 642-7761 for information.

THANKS AUGUSTA!

Hot Breakfast Sandwiches New French Toast Panini Sandwiches

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. 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. 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 THE KITTY ORTIZ DE LEON FOUNDATION needs volunteers to help promote organ donor awareness. For more information, please contact Cassandra Reed at 481-0105 or kodfoundation@aol.com. COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATE PROGRAM is looking for volunteers 21 years of age and older to advocate for abused and neglected children in the juvenile court system. Training begins March 3, 10 a.m., at First Baptist Church of Evans. No experience is necessary. For more information, call 737-4631.

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 BAND ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING FOR GARDEN CITY MUSIC FEST at the Metro Coffehouse 4 p.m. March 4. Information will be given to all bands and persons interested in volunteering. For info, contact Brenda Durant, 826-4702. NORTH AUGUSTA ARTIST GUILD meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Riverview Park Ar ts and Crafts Room. Open to all visual ar tists. For information, contact Yvonne Kinney at 819-9787. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CSRA ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AUTHORITY meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Monday of each month. For info, call 722-0493. THE AUGUSTA SKI AND OUTING CLUB, open to those interested in snow skiing, boating, camping and other outdoor recreation, meets the first Tuesday of every month in the Alamo Room of Lone Star on Washington Road. The nex t meeting will be held March 4. (803) 279-6186.

Weekly

CHRIST-BASED RECOVERY MEETING every 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.

SWAMP SATURDAY LEADER TRAINING March 11, 9 a.m.noon at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Volunteers will learn how to lead Swamp Saturday tour groups through the park. Free. Register by Feb. 27 by calling 828-2109.

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.

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 disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cigarette smoking, overweight or previous stroke or hear t attack. To learn more about the study, call 860-3001.

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

GOLDEN HARVEST FOOD BANK needs volunteers during the day, Monday-Friday, to help sort donated products and assist in their agency shopping area. Help is needed year-round. 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, ext. 208. THOROUGHBRED RACING 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.

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. 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 Mariott. The group is a 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.

Let a Tax Professional take the HASSLE out of doing your tax return.

JERRY BRIGHAM & ASSOCIATES 211 Pleasant Home Rd Augusta Exchange !""#A Robert Daniels Pkwy # Augusta We Deliver: Call $%&#'""' # Fax $%&#!%(( Mon#Thurs $am#)pm • Fri#Sat $am#'*pm Sun +am#+pm

650-1700 Call Us Today! www.jerrybrigham.com

Arts: Theatre

“A Flea in Her Ear” Is a Farce in Three Acts

M E T R O S P I R I T

By Rhonda Jones

F E B

re you in the mood for a farce? Then trot on over to Aiken to see Aiken Community Playhouse’s production of Georges Feydeau’s “A Flea in Her Ear.” It’s a story of jealousy and door-slamming. Apparently, trouble has started because of a husband’s lack of that certain kind of marital attention to his wife. She becomes convinced he is being unfaithful and decides to set a trap for him by having her friend send him an invitation for a rendezvous. The friend’s husband finds out and runs over to kill the alleged lovers. The hotel becomes deluged with parties seeking to prevent the murder – and of course they have their own, less altruistic, reasons for going as well. Longtime ACP-er Thurmond Whatley says that “A Flea in Her Ear,” written in 1910, was one of the first of its kind. “It was considered one of the prototypes for a modern-day farce,” identified, he said, by comic, frantic action, mistaken identity and the like. “People seem to be running in and out of doors trying to meet and avoid people,” he said, adding that it is often called a “doorslamming” play. “It’s hard to describe. It’s very cleverly done,” he said. Later he called it “kind of a mix between ‘The Three Stooges’ and ‘I Love Lucy’ show.” It’s not quite the traditional version, however. “Ours is set in the 1960s,” Whatley said. He said the language has been updated, even though it borrows a lot from the original script. The play was chosen, he said, because a committee of past directors determined that it had been one of the most successful plays in the history of Aiken Community Playhouse. “Basically, this is the 50th anniversary season of Aiken Community Playhouse,” he said. “Our first season in our new home, The Washington Center for the Performing Arts. The 50th Anniversary Committee basically went to directors that had been successful before and asked for ballpark submissions.” He said that out of those submissions, the committee chose the season, trying for a balanced mix of comedy and drama. “We’re doing other shows like ‘A Streetcar Named Desire,’” he said. They began the season Oct. 18 with “Footloose.” (Remember the Kevin Bacon movie from the ‘80s?) After that, it was “Miracle on 34th Street” for Christmas, and then “The Lion in Winter.” Tennessee Williams’ “A Streetcar Named Desire” will open April 11; “Into the Woods,” based on the book by James Lapine, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, opens May 23; “Where the Lilies Bloom,” by Celeste Raspanti, based on the book by Vera and Bill Cleaver, opens July 11; Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” opens Aug. 8. He was reluctant to say much about the play’s convoluted plot, for fear of letting loose a spoiler. But he did say that, when the wife

2 7

goes to the hotel, she finds things she doesn’t expect. “It’s a very visual kind of play. The actors are having to do a lot of running around,” he said. “Lots of opening and closing of doors.” The set, he added, exists in two levels, which will provide interesting visual space. Along with a potentially interesting set, the production has an experienced theatre person in charge of it all. Whatley estimates he has been acting and directing for Aiken Community Playhouse for around 20 years now. He guesses he’s helped put together about 22 shows. “Daddy’s Dying – Who’s Got the Will?” was his last show with ACP. He directed. Asked if he prefers farces, Whatley said, “I think I prefer comedy, just because it’s more challenging, I think, than drama. And a farce when you get down to it is fairly thin plot so you have to dress it up.” Working with the actors and the characters to dress it up, he said, is a lot of fun. Labor of Love If you’ve been to many performances, observed what goes on backstage or during rehearsals, or if you are acquainted with those who work in theatre, you may have noticed the incredible amount of sweat and dedication these guys put in on a regular basis – without pay. And everyone has their own reasons for hitching themselves to the wagon, he said. “It’s probably as varied as the number of people involved,” he said. “Some folks in it are former professionals. It’s still a way to stay in touch with a love they developed early on.” Others, he said, are good enough to have gone professional but never did for one reason or another. And still others just like to be surrounded by creativity. “Aiken Community Playhouse is a very open organization,” he said. “It doesn’t require prior experience.” About half the cast of “A Flea in Her Ear” are new, he said, adding that there are always seasoned workers to guide the less experienced ones. “You can be as busy as you want to be in community theatre,” he said, adding that they often joke about theatre being their second full-time job. “Just because people aren’t being paid for it doesn’t mean you can get away with doing less work,” he said. “There are really no shortcuts in that regard.” His other job, the one that pays money, is a professorship at Aiken Technical College, where he teaches English and theatre. He said the two do tend to bleed into each other. “It does. Yes, there’s a lot of similarities in drama and literature and composition, really.” When you break down a script into its basic parts, he said, it’s all composition. He laughed, and said that, while teaching acting technique to beginners, he sometimes finds himself putting on his “professor” hat. “They’re probably not signing up for being lectured at this level,” he said.

2 0 0 3

The men of “A Flea in Her Ear” find themselves mired in a private little scandal.

He said that this season has been an interesting one for Aiken Community Playhouse, because he is also on the board of directors and all of the board members have been doing “double and triple duty” in order to get to know their brand-new building, which they have only been using since last fall. “We’ve worked very hard to try and make it an enjoyable evening. It is a comedy, for folks who kind of like intellectual jokes.” “Yes, it’s shaped up really nicely in rehearsal,” he added. “We’re using a new fly system for the first time to fly something pretty elaborate.” About the Author The author of the original script, Georges Feydeau, eventually lost his mind. He was born in Paris, France, in 1862, wrote nearly 40 plays and then died of syphilis in 1920 or 1921, according to online sources. The Western Michigan University Web site reports that, in 1909, he moved to the Hotel Terminus – appropriately named – and lived out his last decade as a free man, supposedly surrounded by his extensive library, his collection of famous paintings and his cherished collection of perfumes — 250 of them. This is where he wrote his last play, “Hortense Said: I Don’t

Give a Damn!” three years before he was put into a sanitarium for syphilis and neurasthenia. He apparently developed delusions of grandeur, sending out invitations to his coronation as Napoleon III’s heir, from his hospital room. This adaptation was written by Frank Galati, who is a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company and Tony Award winner. He adapted and directed “The Grapes of Wrath,” according to search.centerstage.net. The production won all kinds of awards. He teaches at Northwestern University and has written musicals, farces, screenplays – you name it. “A Flea in Her Ear” is a farce in three acts. It will open Friday, Feb. 28, with performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays: Feb. 28, March 1, March 7-8, March 14-15. The Sunday matinee will be held March 9 at 3 p.m. Performances will be held at The Washington Center for the Performing Arts at 124 Newberry Street in Aiken, S.C. Reservations are recommended and may be obtained by calling (803) 648-1438 Tuesday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., or Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. Unclaimed tickets are released to waiting patrons 15 minutes before curtain.

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

Arts: Music

Four Guys, Four Guitars

By Rhonda Jones

F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

n an era when the rock guitarist is still sort of idolized and the folksy troubadour is romanticized, we tend to forget that there are other ways to enjoy this versatile instrument. Classical guitar is one of those ways. The Santa Fe Guitar Quartet are here to remind us. And we can thank the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society, under the artistic direction of Dr. Alan H. Drake, for bringing them. When you first hear of the Santa Fe Guitar Quartet, you may be tempted to wonder, what in the world can a group do with four guitars? Apparently, quite a lot. This particular ensemble – who are a classical quartet – perform Rumanian folk dances, Spanish numbers, a bit of Bach, as well as Baroque and Renaissance styles. Apparently, they’ve tuned their instruments so that they get a broader range as well. And, no, they don’t stick to just the four guitars, either. According to The Dallas Morning News’ staff critic Olin Chism, who wrote a review for the Oct. 2, 2002 edition of the paper, the group uses “at least” six guitars, creating “a considerable range of sound.” What the Press Is Saying On Oct. 7, 2002, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch carried an article, “Quartet’s Rewarding Show Kicks off Society’s Season,” by Christian C. Rix, that described what you are likely to see at a Santa Fe Guitar Quartet show. Their repertoire includes more than just your Bach and such. For St. Louis, they played “Fantasia de los Ecos” by Brouwer and “Gracia” by Infante. After that, the PostDispatch reported, they let their hair down for the more versatile pieces, including some jazz. The St. Louis paper also reports a subtlety in the lower register, from the use of a “specialized bass guitar.” The paper also reports that the Quartet engaged their audience through witty banter, and “laid-back competence.” In his review, Chism also used the term “laid-back,” and mentioned the group’s subtlety as well. “The beginning of Will Ayton’s ‘Prelude and Ricercar’ was so quiet that there may have been some in the Morton H. Mayerson Symphony Center who didn’t realize the music was underway.” The repertoire for the evening included composers Leo Brouwer, Bach, Albeniz, Infante, Guastavino, Metheny and Piazzolla. According to an article in the spring 1999 issue of Soundboard Magazine by The Guitar Foundation of America, The Santa Fe Guitar Quartet is not named for the New Mexican city, but for the region in Argentina, where the group is from. The four men are Eric Slavin, who was actually born on a U.S. Marine base in Hiroshima, Japan, and who was turned on to the guitar by the recordings of master guitarist Andres Segovia. Miguel Piva and Mariano Fontana were actually born in Santa Fe. Christopher Dorsey is from Byron, Ga., and spent some time in Spain studying flamenco guitar. Fontana is into

According to The Dallas Morning News’ staff critic Olin Chism, who wrote a review for the Oct. 2, 2002 edition of the paper, the group uses “at least” six guitars, creating “a considerable range of sound.” South American folk music. Piva has at his disposal plenty of Latin American special effects and percussive techniques. Here is what they have planned for us. From Aaron Copland, they will play excerpts from “Rodeo” – “Saturday Night Waltz” and “Hoe Down.” From composer Bela Bartok they have a collection of Rumanian folk dances – “Stick Game,” “Peasant Costume,” “Standing Still,” “Mountain Horn Song,” “Rumanian Garden Gate,” and “Little One.” From Isaac Albeniz, they have two Spanish pieces – “Almeria” (from “Iberia”) and “Aragon” (from “Suite Española.”) From Manuel Infante, they will play “Danza Andaluza.” And that’s all before intermission. They have different plans for us than they had for St. Louis in the fall, because for us they’re saving the more classical pieces until the end. From Carlos Guastavino, they will play the two romances, “Muchacho Jujeno” and “Baile.” (Baile means “dance.”) From J.S. Bach, they will play “Prelude and Fugue BWV539.” And then they will end with a set of three modern tangos from Astor Piazzolla – “La Muerte del Angel” (The Death of the Angel), “Mumuki” and “Escualo.” More Classical Guitar If you hear the Santa Fe Guitar Quartet and you just can’t let it go at that, why not check out additional performers? Here are a few to get you started. Paulo Bellinati is a well-known Brazilian guitarist. He studied with Isaias Savio and then took off to Switzerland and the Conservatory of Geneva. He later taught at the Conservatory of Lausanne. His musical creations are widely distributed and performed by other musicians. If you want to search for some of his work, you can look for “The Guitar Works of Garoto,” which, according to gspguitar.com, got a five-star rating from CD Review Magazine. There is also

the album “Guitares du Bresil,” which includes other Brazilian instruments such as 4-string, 7-string and 10-string guitars with lyrical Spanish names. This particular recording was highly recognized half a world away, receiving high ratings from two prominent French music magazines, Le Monde de La Musique and Diapason. Dusan Bogdanovic, a Yugoslavian guitarist who combines classical, jazz and ethnic styles, has recorded a dozen albums and toured extensively throughout the world. He does neat things like compose ballet-poemes like a piece called “Crow,” which he created for the Pacific Dance Company and Lyric Quartet. He studied at the Geneva Conservatory. His debut recital was at Carnegie Hall in 1977. If you want to look for a couple of his titles, try “Mysterious Habitats” or “Unconscious in Brazil.” The latter contains “3 African Sketches,” “Levantine Suite,” “Polymetric Studies,” “In Winter Garden” and “Diferencias Diferentes.” Andrew York is a solo performer as well as a member of the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, which has made a habit of touring the world. And, he’s a Georgia boy. Well, he was born in Atlanta anyway, even if he did grow up in Virginia. He studied at James Madison University and then went to the University of Southern California for his Master’s degree. “Denouement” is one of his CDs. It contains titles such as “In Sorrow’s Wake,” “Skeleton” and “Royal Plum Pudding.” It won “Best Classical Album” in the 1994 Guitar Player Magazine reader’s poll. “Perfect Sky” is another one of his recordings. It contains sounds from nylon, steel and electric archtop guitars. Attend Santa Fe and Other Local Concerts • The Santa Fe Guitar Quartet will play at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Center on the campus of Augusta State

University in Augusta, March 7 at 8 p.m. You can get your tickets at the door starting at 7 p.m. General admission is $15. Students pay $5 – unless you’re an ASU student. Then you get in free, as do members of the Society and ASU’s faculty and staff. Arrive early to see the 7:15 performance of the Senior Ensemble of the Suzuki Strings of Augusta as part of the pre-concert offerings of the society. For information call (706) 736-9098. • The Augusta Symphony is gearing up to present its final Encore Chamber Series concert, on Saturday, March 8 at 8 p.m., featuring the Symphony’s String Quartet and Woodwind Trio. Members of the two ensembles will combine to perform Benjamin Britten’s “Phantasy Quartet for Oboe and Strings. The String Quartet will perform George Gershwin’s “Three Preludes.” If you have not experienced Carl Purdy on the viola, you must come see, as he will be highlighted playing viola, harmonica, guitar and singing Michael Braz’s “Bluescape.” Braz himself will be featured on blues piano. This will all happen at the Unitarian Universalist Hall on Walton Way Extension in Augusta. For info call (706) 826-4706 or e-mail donnabranch@augustasymphony.org. The Symphony Office is located at Sacred Heart Cultural Center and is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • The 4th Annual Cleon Mauldin Memorial Concert will be presented by The Augusta Concert Band with special guest saxophonist Wayne Hoey. Richard Brasco will be guest conductor. The concert will take place March 9 at 7 p.m., at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Center on the campus of Augusta State University. General admission is $6. Senior citizens, military personnel and children get in for $3. Call (803) 202-0091 or e-mail bandforaugusta@aol.com.

33 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 2 7 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". Why This Offer Can’t Last You must act before March 13th . Here are two reasons why. 1. I can only have 6 of each of the three sizes. When all of the air conditioners are sold and all the furnaces are "given" away in a particular size, that’s it. There are no more at this price. 2. If I have any of the 18 systems left on March 13 (although I doubt I will), this offer still ends. Here’s why. The only reason I am making this virtually no-profit (for me) offer is because of the "killer” months. Give us a call now at 722-5304, and we will set an appointment for your no-obligation survey.

“FIXED RIGHT OR IT'S FREE™”

If I can accomplish these two objectives, I will minimize my losses and the rest of the year, I can be a winner. No Obligation Even after I completely explain the installation, there is absolutely no obligation. If you decide you don’t want to take advantage of the spectacular savings… that’s okay. I want you to think well of SIG COX even if you don’t buy. You Can Buy With NO Cash You don’t even have to pay me right away. I have set up a terrific bank rate financing plan. I even decided not to mark up the interest rate like some companies do. Consider this. If you

Sig Cox, Inc. AIR CONDITIONING and HEATING 1431 Greene Street Augusta, Georgia 30901

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

Arts: Exhibits

Childhood Innocence and Dark Sensuality in Local Exhibits

By Rhonda Jones

F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

rt is art, they sometimes say. They are wrong. The types of art you may find yourself confronting are as varied as the artists who create them. Take the two artists in this story, for instance: Bessie Nickens, a self-taught African-American woman approaching the end of a century spent on the earth; and Shannon Evans, a formally educated young white man. One paints the colorful memories of her youth; one photographs darkness. First, There Is Innocence Bessie Nickens is from another world altogether. At 97, she has seen the world go through numerous changes. The childhood she remembers is vastly different from the childhood you and I remember. Hers was a childhood spent playing outdoor games we’ve forgotten in favor of PlayStation and the Internet, picking cotton, and “Walking the Log,” which is the title of her book of paintings. In the guise of a children’s book, it is a trip to the past – the past of a nearcentenarian artist, the past of our rural American ancestors. You can hear her voice as you study the paintings, alive with color. “Girl on the Rope Swing,” for instance, is in a pristine setting. “That’s the way I swung all the time,” the text beneath declares. “I loved to swing.” Nickens is a painter in love with her art. “I paint every day,” she said in a telephone interview. “And if I wake up in the middle of the night, I paint then. I say, there’s no need to waste this time.” And just because she’s three years from a hundred, that’s no reason to consider retiring. She’s still hard at work. “I’m working on another picture of the Underground Railroad,” she said. For those of you who slept through history class, the Underground Railroad was an elaborate system of cart rides, hidey holes and paths through the wilderness, with many helpers along the way, to usher escaping slaves to safety during some of the United States’ darker periods. Asked if she had a historical bent, Nickens didn’t really seem to think so. “Well I love to paint anything,” she said. “I have really concentrated on painting my memories of the rural South. They’re all true stories.” One character who keeps popping up in her work is a little brown-and-white dog. Throughout “Walking the Log,” he watches the girls jump rope, goes flower-picking with the children, lays at the mother’s feet while she quilts, observes a game of Snap the Whip, and yes, actually walks the log with young Bessie and her sister and brother. His name is Polo. “Oh, Polo was my favorite dog,” she said, then added, “Every time we’d get a dog, we’d name him Polo.”

There’s a reason he was in so many of the paintings. “Polo went everywhere we went,” she said. “And he did not like other dogs.” She said he would attack dogs many times his own size. “Well, he’s the stupidest dog I’ve ever seen and when he’d get OK, he’d do the same thing over again,” she said. She seemed to enjoy her memories so much, I asked what her favorite was. “Oh, my favorite memory was going to the oneroom schoolhouse,” she said. “We used to walk a mile down the railroad track.” Nickens loved to learn things and was always determined to continue her education. “I always wanted a college education but I never got to college.” There were all sorts of obstacles in the way of opportunities to go to school, and those are sprinkled throughout the text of “Walking the Log.” For one thing, being black in the early 1900s itself posed a problem. The Sligo, La., native was living in Vivian, La., by the time she was old enough to go to school. But Vivian didn’t have a school for blacks. She started at the age of 7, the same age she began transforming herself into an artist, in Fullerton, La. She didn’t let that get in the way of her education, though. Even now, she said, she makes it a point to keep learning, to keep up with the world. “Oh yes, I read newspapers. I read The New York Times every day.” In fact, she taught herself to draw, and then to paint. First, at the age of 7, she taught herself figure-drawing by tracing the figures in an old Sears, Roebuck and Co. catalog. Eventually, she began to color her creations with Crayolas, and learned to create an oily effect by rubbing the wax, eventually moving on to oil paint by teaching herself. She remembers selling a painting on satin for $1. In the introduction to “Walking the Log,” she says she didn’t “really” start painting until she was in her mid-80s, after she retired from her silk-finishing business. She estimates that she has painted around 250 pieces. “I love color. I dream in color. Red is my favorite color. It’s so invigorating. It makes me feel good.” “I sold pictures to Bill Cosby, Oprah Winfrey, Bryant Gumble and many other celebrities. I’ve been on ABC-TV, CBS, Channel 5 and local Channel 34,” she added. We asked if she thought she may ever just get tired of painting and retire. “Oh, no. I love painting,” she said emphatically. “Painting is my life. If I couldn’t paint I just don’t know what I’d do.” Asked what she’d like for people to glean from “Walking the Log,” which was published, by the way, in 1994 by Rizzolin International Publications in New York City, she said she wants children to appreciate it. “I wrote memories of growing up in the

Top: “Mama Quilting,” Bottom: “Double Dutch”

rural South. I’d like the younger people to read my book to see how I came up 97 years ago. Because all the pictures I painted are memories, and they’re all true stories. I’d like to let the young people see how I came up.” She left no stone unturned. “Country Church” shows neighbors gathered around

in their Sunday best, at a time when “Sunday best” wasn’t just a saying. “Oh yes, we had our little calico dresses on,” she says on Page 4. “Picking Wildflowers” is full of blue sky and lush open space. You can almost feel the breeze. And that’s the thing about Nickens’ work. You may not continued on page 36

ANGER MANAGEMENT CENTER Training for Individuals, Groups, Schools and Corporations Learn to control the emotion that controls you

John C. Whitley III, Ph.D.

Lose 30 lbs. in 10 weeks - GUARANTEED!! Barbara Shelton of Dearing, GA Lost 32 3/4 lbs. & 58 1/2 in. in 11 weeks

FAST EASY SAFE BEFORE

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

• Physician Approved • Eat Grocery Store Food • NO SHOTS NO DRUGS

DURING

FREE CONSULTATION • CALL NOW!

2828 Hillcreek Drive ~ Augusta, GA 30909 (706) 228-5006 www.johncwhitley.com Georgia Medicaid Approved, Most Insurance Accepted

M-F 9-6 • W 9-4:30

SATURDAY NIGHTS Calabash Seafood Buffet Every Saturday Fried Shrimp Fried Clams Fried Calamari Fried Oysters Peel-n-Eat-Shrimp Salad Bar Greens Hoppin John Mac-n-cheese

All-You-Can-Eat Crab Legs For $5 More

2651 P ERIMETER PARKWAY • RESERVATIONS • (706) 855-8100

Friday Nights • 5 - 10 PM All the Crab Legs You Can Eat Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet

All You Can Eat Breakfast Buffet $7.95 & All You Can Eat Lunch Buffet $8.95 All your Southern Favorites - includes Beverage & Dessert Bar

$1 OFF with this coupon

expires 2/28/03

Augusta - 737.3007 • Aiken - 803.641.9800

35 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

36 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

MODEL SEARCH We’re looking for you! All females 18-26 yrs old Enter to win a free professional portfolio Visit or call the studio for details PORTRAIT • GLAMOUR • BOUDOIR • WEDDING • GRADUATION • PORTFOLIO

Pro Image PHOTO

PORTRAIT STUDIO 102 Prince Drive, Suite B • 706-869-9369 (next to GMC Pontiac Master on Washington Rd.) Studio hours: Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri & Sat 10-7 Tues Closed, Sun 11-6

Get real peace of mind with an

Advanced Air Technology energy saving agreement

(706) 868-6111

continued from page 34 ooh and ahh over technique, but you will be transported. We asked if she knows what her next project is going to be. “Yes, I’m going to paint something on Ground Zero. I have the canvas. I’m just getting together in my mind what I’m going to paint. When I say Ground Zero, that’s the memory of 9/11.” We then asked if there were anything else she’d like to add. There was. “I’m 97 and I’m glad to be here. At 97, I’m glad to be anywhere.” You can see her work from March 1 through May 18 at the Morris Museum of Art in an exhibit titled “Walking the Log: Paintings by Bessie Nickens.” The museum’s executive director, Kevin Grogan, will give an informal presentation on her work on March 13. The artist will be there as well, in case you Shannon Evans shows off one of his photographs want to stop in and say hello. The “You don’t know who it is and what she’s Bessie Nickens lecture is the first in a wrapped in,” he said. three-part series called “Terra Cognita: He wraps her in all sorts of materials, Contemporary Visual Expressions in the from cheese cloth to chickenwire to seeSouth,” in recognition of the museum’s 10th anniversary, addressing current themes through plastic, and leaves it up to the viewer to decide what’s happening to her. in contemporary Southern art. General “I just want people to think, ‘What is she admission for nonmembers is $3. Seniors, doing? Why is she wrapped in that?’ and students and military pay $2. A members’ just be able to draw their own conclusions,” preview and reception follows the lecture. he said. For info call (706) 724-7501. Though Evans’ images are not graphic in any way – unless you consider bare breasts Not for the Faint of Heart graphic – there is a nightmare-inducing Up the spiral staircase of Ware’s Folly, the images created by Shannon Evans wait. sensuality there that will either repel or captivate. It’s hard to imagine anyone being You’d better make sure you want them in lukewarm about Evans’ work. your head before you go. Once they make “I haven’t really pinpointed why I do the their way behind your eyes, you’ll never be photos that I do,” he said. He does know rid of them. The stark, black-and-white pieces contain that he wants to create a sense of mystery. such dramatic contrast that they don’t need He wants to make people wonder. Evans himself is a bit of an enigma. His much light to raise the hairs on the back of look is tough – detailed dragon completely your neck. They are printed on a special see-through paper that Evans buys from an covering his right arm and another tat growing on his left, shaved head, and earrings. architectural design supply shop, and Yet the artist is soft-spoken, mild-mannered. thinks it may be the same stuff that is used “This is my first interview,” he admitted. to create blueprints. He says it is not the “I’m kind of nervous.” Asked if his work material that X-rays are printed on, though could be considered dark, he smiled. the effect is similar. “Sometimes,” he said. But instead of mounting them inside wallThe exhibit going up at the Gertrude frames, he suspends them from chains to let the light pass through. “I don’t need a light- Herbert Institute of Art is also his first solo show, as he is a recent Augusta State source anymore,” he says, like the proud University graduate. He is currently searchpapa of a creature that has evolved before ing for a grad school, and will have the his eyes. option to use this show in his portfolio. He He claims industrial scenes – including is planning to include 10 pieces – eight the period from the late 18th to early 19th large and two small. century – as the source of his inspiration And when he says large ... well, you’ll for the steel frames he makes. He enjoys just have to see. If you dare. building them, he says. They create an Evans will be featured in a solo exhibition interesting juxtaposition with the delicate at the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art at prints. 506 Telfair Street, downtown Augusta. The And, he said with a grin, they’re a lot exhibition runs from Feb. 25-March 28, more fun to make than the standard fourwith an artist reception on March 13 from sided flat frames that holds most artwork, 5-6:30 p.m. Admission is free, and hanging although he doesn’t always use metal. “I out with artists is cool. like the feel of the steel and the wood,” he If you can’t make the reception, however, said. “I like to build things.” you can still stop by and visit the images. Many of his frames create a 3-D effect – The Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art, like the four he bolted together to make a which is, by the way, the aforementioned cube inside which he intended to hang two Ware’s Folly of the spiral staircase, is open copies of the same photograph. It is perTuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until haps my favorite of the series, serene, yet 5 p.m. If you can’t get away during those crackling with emotion. hours, you can arrange a Saturday appointIt is a photograph of his wife, Jamie. It is ment. Call (706) 722-5495. softly disturbing.

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

Cinema

“Moonlight Mile”

Movie Listings

2 7 2 0 0 3

Antonia’s Line (R) — begins on what elderly

Antonia is convinced will be the last day of her life. In flashback, Antonia goes back to her Dutch farm and post-World War II, where she’s forced to raise her daughter, Danielle, alone. Antonia’s non-traditional ways stir up the small farming community, and she meets a host of color ful characters that bolster her strength. Cast: Willeke Van Ammelrooy, Jan Decleir, Marina De Graaf, Mil Seghers. Running time: 1 hr., 42 mins. 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. 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 tap dancing 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) ★★★★ Cradle 2 the Grave (R) — DMX stars as thief Tony Fait, who pulls of f a heist involving rare black diamonds. On Fait’s trail is Su (Jet Li), a Taiwanese government agent who has been tracking the path of the diamonds throughout the world. Su’s former par tner Ling, lured by the diamonds and looking to procure them for himself, kidnaps Fait’s young daughter in an at tempt to exchange her for the diamonds. Fait realizes his only chance to get his daughter back is to team up with Su. Cast: Jet Li, DMX, Anthony Anderson, Gabrielle Union, Mark Dacascos. Daredevil (PG-13) — Ben Affleck as Mat t

Touchtone Pictures

Murdock is another lonely "tormented" orphan whose only therapy is a revenge quest that pretends to be a moral, city-saving crusade. His boxing father (David Keith) came to a brutal end, not long af ter the sensitive boy was blinded by a chemical spill. Now his other senses are "heightened," which somehow gives Daredevil immense strength, the talent to leap great distances. Colin Farrell plays enemy Bullseye, who loves hurling sharp objects at people's throats. The hero's fem interest is Elek tra (Jennifer Garner). There is immense Michael Clarke Duncan as bad guy Kingpin. We want to believe that corporate Hollywood can evolve beyond this form of serial constipation, so full of action, but with nothing truly human moving. Cast: Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, Colin Farrell, David Keith, Michael Clarke Duncan. Running time: 1 hr., 35 mins. (Elliot t) ★ Dark Blue (R) — Perry (Kur t Russell) is a corrupt cop. Keough (Scot t Speedman) is the rookie par tner. Perry is a racist boozer prone to habitual gun use. Keough is dazzled by his bazooka verbiage and cocky authority, and by his groove with the twisted white men who treat the LAPD as a personal fiefdom. As a jury deliberates the Rodney King beating case and the city faces breakdown, the small, nasty games continue. Brendan Gleeson is the top racist, a bullhorn who boasts, "I am a per former of unpleasant tasks." The most unpleasant involves the murder of four people in a robbery, authorized by Gleeson, with Perry ordered to provide cover-up. Few films have shown such contempt for a city or a police force. Gleeson's vile cynicism is summed up by his clima x eruption, "(Bleep) L.A.!" At least, unlike Perry, he gets right to the point. Cast: Kur t Russell, Scot t Speedman, Ving Rhames, Lolita Davidovich, Brendan Gleeson, Michael Michele. Running time: 1 hr., 56 mins. (Elliot t) ★★ Darkness Falls (PG-13) — A young man in a 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

MGM Studios

“Dark Blue”

RATINGS

★★★★ — Excellent.

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, tor tures him, then zips off 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 after 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 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 "ghet to Santa" who’s been stealing presents. Cast: Ice Cube, Mike Epps, Don "D.C." Curry. Gods and Generals (PG-13) — Rober t Duvall brings his rather gaunt but vinegar presence to the role of Gen. Lee. In this 216-minute epic, Lee is sidelined by Gen. Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, played by Stephen Lang not as a stone wall, but as a statue-inprogress. The Nor therners exist mostly to die, like dutiful blue ants. It's like an old history cyclorama

★★★— Worthy.

★★ — Mixed.

★ — Poor.

"brought to life" with a mix ture of wa x, starch and pulped hymnals. The main audience will clearly be military buf fs, armchair warriors and re-enactors. For them, here is a devotional of death, inferior to "Get tysburg" and, of course, a vir tual car toon of the war in its true and awful glory. Cast: Rober t Duvall, Stephen Lang, Jef f Daniels, Kevin Conway, Mira Sorvino, Bruce Boxleitner. Running time: 3 hrs., 36 mins. (Elliot t) ★★

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (PG) — Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) 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 wonderful 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 Radcliffe, 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, Matthew 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 (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 upand-coming 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 coworkers that he can make a woman fall in love with him — all in the same 10-day deadline. The teasers

0— Not worthy.

continued on page 38

38 M E T R O

continued from page 37

Doug’s Meat Shop

S P I R I T

Celebrating 31 Years

F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Thank You CSRA for your Continued Support Doug

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

Medical Uniforms A New Generation for Healthcare! The Latest Styles & Fashions

s Serving the industry since 1930 Now open to the public!

CLEARANCE SALE 50% Off Sale On Yellow Stickered Stock Merchandise Only

OUTLET

1216 Broad St. • 722-4653 across from Sunshine Bakery & Firestone Tire Mon-Fri 8am-5pm • Sat 10am-3pm

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) ★ The Life of David Gale (R) — Kevin Spacey stars as David Gale, a family man and popular professor who is convicted of murdering a fellow activist. Just days before he is scheduled to be executed, Gale agrees to an exclusive interview with rabid journalist Bitsey Bloom, who soon discovers that there is more to Gale’s story than meets the eye — and that his life is in her hands. Cast: Kevin Spacey, Kate Winslet, Laura Linney. Maid in Manhattan (PG-13) — The airy fantasy puts Jennifer Lopez into a cute maid's uniform at a swank New York hotel. She's Marisa, and when she tries on the very expensive, if rather Bel Air trophy wife, outfit of a snobbish guest, this at tracts the "playboy" eye of senatorial hopeful Chris Marshall (Ralph Fiennes). Chris' manager (Stanley Tucci) is in control-freak agony that the Republican politician might fall in love with someone not toity and rich. The film is most marked by the flagrant waste of talent. As the sitcom yucks racked up their lit tle nif ties, perked along by music, I had a weird, tiny pinch of nostalgia for "Jackass: The Movie." Cast: Jennifer Lopez, Ralph Fiennes, Bob Hoskins, Natasha Richardson, Stanley Tucci, Tyler Garcia Posey. Running time: 1 hr., 35 mins. (Elliot t) ★1/2 Moonlight Mile (PG-13) — Set in the early 1970s, “Moonlight Mile” examines the tenuous relationship between a young man mourning the death of his fiancée and her grieving parents. Determined to do the right thing, Joe (Jake Gyllenhaal) moves in with his late fiancée’s mother and father and becomes a new shred of hope in their lives. Everyone else expects Joe to jump headfirst into the dating pool. He’s reluctant, even when another woman comes into his life unexpectedly. Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Dustin Hof fman, Susan Sarandon, Holly Hunter. Running time: 2 hrs., 3 mins. Narc (R) — opens with a breathless foot chase. One man is shot in the throat, another is shot dead, a pregnant woman is wounded. Narcotics detective Nick Tellis (Jason Patric) is mentally on the street every moment. An ace at undercover work, but emotionally too strapped to his work, Tellis is suspended for that opening carnage. His wife wants him to quit. It isn't a pension plan that makes him want to stay on the force, it's his pride — and the glory-in-risk of a topping case, to solve the murder of another narcotics officer. But to do that he must work with the strong-arm veteran Lt. Henry Oak (Ray Liot ta), who is stoking a hot fuse about his young, dead par tner and the worm farm that is depar tment politics. The case drags them into a sor t of moral mudslide. "Narc" suggests that the mean streets are meaner than you want to know — but might wish to see filmed and acted this effectively. Cast: Ray Liot ta, Jason Patric, Anne Openshaw, Busta Rhymes. Running time: 1 hr., 45 mins. (Elliot t) ★★★1/2 National Security (PG-13) — Martin 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 partol, they uncover a smuggling operation, in between bits of slapstick that are obligatory for films of this genre. Cast: Martin Lawrence, Steve Zahn, Eric Roberts. 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 off-campus frat house. Cast: Luke Wilson, Will Ferrell, Vince Vaughn, Elisha Cuthber t. The Pianist (R) — The story of how gifted pianist Wladyslaw Szpilman (played by delicately featured,

“Daredevil”

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 effectiveness 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

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) ★★★ —Capsules compiled from movie reviews written by David Elliott, film critic for The San Diego Union-Tribune and other staff writers.

Cinema: Review

“Cradle 2 the Grave” Isn’t the Vehicle Jet Li Needs for American Fame By Rachel Deahl

et Li is an international star who has been in search of an American star vehicle; unfortunately, he’s still waiting on a decent script. Like Jackie Chan and Chow Yun Fat, who have both crossed over from the Asian film scene to find success (to largely different degrees) in American films, Li brings to the screen a remarkable and singular fighting style and screen presence. But, unlike his contemporaries, Li has something else, a quiet power that sets him apart, a quality which is writ large in his latest effort, “Cradle 2 the Grave.” Unfortunately, like so many of the poorly crafted action movies he’s made in America, this film relies too heavily on explosions and lengthy car chases instead of its diminutive Chinese lead. Making his American debut in the flashy flop “Lethal Weapon 4,” Li has gone on to star in a string of bombs. The first of those, “Romeo Must Die,” was orchestrated by the moneyman behind the “Lethal Weapon” series, Joel Silver. Touted by the producer as a hip-hop version of “The Matrix,” “Romeo Must Die” was more like “West Side Story” on speed — with more blood and more explosions. After delivering another flop at the box office with “The One,” Li has reunited with Silver for “Cradle 2 the Grave” in what would seem to be the producer’s dramatic, hip-hop version of “Rush Hour.” Like Li’s other disappointing ventures with Silver, “Cradle” is high on poorly executed action sequences and low on carefully orchestrated stunts and fight scenes. In other words, there’s an exhaustive display of people routinely getting their butts kicked and a lot of stuff blowing up in the background. Paired with rapper DMX, who plays a high-end thief named Tony Fait, Li costars as a Taiwanese government agent named Su, who comes to town to get his

hands on some jewels Tony and his crew have inadvertently stolen in their latest heist. Of course, Tony’s bad luck is that those black diamonds he thought he lifted are actually small plutonium capsules that will revolutionize atomic weaponry. (Don’t you just hate it when that happens?) And, since those little suckers are worth hefty sums (the arms dealers are ready to pay top dollar), there’s also an evil, young businessman/vigilante who’s eager to get control of the mysterious loot. The Dr. Evil of the picture, Ling (Mark Dacascos), kidnaps Tony’s daughter in order to get those all-important diamonds. Forced to pair up with the foreign cop so he can get his daughter back, Tony and Su set off to find the loot (which has been stolen from them by a fourth party) and set all right with the world in the process. From DMX’s catchy title song, “X Gon’ Give It to You,” to the logical pairing of street fighting with kung fu, the concept behind “Cradle 2 the Grave” isn’t a bad one. And, in general, Silver and other moviemakers are correct to assume that martial arts and hip-hop blend nicely. That said, Silver’s latest project fails in its execution. With too little Li and too much DMX, the film would have been much better served if each player could have been allowed to stick to what they do best, with Li fighting and DMX singing. The shoddy script and idiotic plotline (the auction among the world’s top arms dealers for the plutonium capsules is particularly laughable) only fuel the fire. But, in that final showdown between Li and Dacascos, which takes place in a ring of fire complete with the sprinkler system raining down, there is a giddy sense that if this martial artist ever does get a decent U.S. film to helm, it will more than make up for his transgressions with Mr. Silver.

NOW OPEN DOWNTOWN Old pub atmosphere - Great food Join us for lunch today! APPETIZERS

Jumbo Chicken Wings Hot or Mild, House BBQ, Honey Mustard, Jamaican Jerk, Orange Moon Special Sauce 1 Dozen $6.95 2 Dozen $12.95 Jalapeno Cheddar Poppers $5.95 Served with our homemade fries and Ranch Dressing Spinach & Artichoke Dip $4.95 Served with tortilla chips Beer Battered Mushrooms $4.95 Large mushrooms dipped in our own beer batter and fried. Served with Horseradish Sauce Chips & Salsa $2.95 Fresh Tortilla Chips with our homemade Salsa Full Moon Nachos Tortilla chips topped with our homemade chili, 4-cheese blend, shredded lettuce, tomato, jalapenos and sour cream Small $4.95 Large $8.95 Orange Moon Sea Crab or Salmon Cake $3.95 Crab or Salmon cake topped with homemade remoulade sauce over mixed greens Orange Moon Chips $2.95 Homemade potato chips topped with crumbled Blue Cheese and Ranch dressing

QUESADILLAS

All Quesadillas grilled in a jumbo 12” Jalapeno and Cheese Tortilla with sides of sour cream, guacamole, homemade salsa and served with our Orange Moon Rice The Half Moon $7.95 Cheddar, Mozzarella, Pepper Jack and Parmesan Cheese The Hawaiian Moon $8.95 Shaved Smoked Ham, Fresh Pineapple, Jalapeno Slices, Monterrey Jack and Cheddar cheeses The Orange Moon $9.95 Shaved Roast Beef with Monterrey Jack, Cheddar and Mozzarella cheeses Cajun Shrimp & Black Bean $9.95 Baby Shrimp, Orange Moon Rice and Black Beans smothered in Pepper Jack Cheese Chicken on the Ranch $9.95 Grilled Chicken, Green Peppers, Shredded Carrots, Buttermilk Ranch Dressing and Pepper Jack Cheese

SOUP & SALAD Made Fresh Daily

Seafood Gumbo, Ocean Clam Chowder or Angus Beef Chili $3.95 Garden Salad or Caesar Salad $3.95 Add Grilled Chicken $2.00 Add Grilled Shrimp $3.00

ENTREES

Moon-Kabobs - All Kabobs served with Orange Moon Rice and Fried Green Tomatoes or Onion Rings Ginger Orange Chicken Kabob $8.95 Grilled chicken, orange bell pepper and onion basted in an orange ginger glaze Pineapple Rosemary Pork Kabob $8.95 Grilled Pork tenderloin, fresh pineapple, green bell pepper and onion basted in a pineapple rosemary glaze Hot Shrimp on a Stick Kabob $9.95 Blackened Shrimp and yellow bell pepper glazed with a mango puree Teriyaki Beef Kabob $9.95 Combination of onions, bell pepper, and marinated beef tenderloin glazed with teriyaki honey sauce Crab or Salmon Cakes $12.95 Three large Sea Crab or Salmon Cakes, topped with Remoulade Sauce. Served with Sautéed vegetables and Orange Moon rice Jambalaya $12.95 Andouille Sausage, Chicken and Shrimp simmered in a seasoned sauce. Served over our Orange Moon Rice Orange Moon Sage Shrimp $12.95 Sage Shrimp in a mandarin orange cream sauce tossed in Bowtie pasta Chicken Strips $9.95 Fried Chicken Breast Tenderloins served with honey mustard sauce and French Fries Catfish Strips $9.95 Breaded catfish strips served with tartar sauce and french fries Spanikopitas $9.95 Layers of puff pastry accompanied by spinach, baby shrimp and Monterrey Jack baked a served with fried green tomatoes

BABY BACK RIBS

Served with your choice of Homemade Potato Chips, Fries or Onion Rings and basted in your choice of sauce. Hot or Mild, House BBQ, Honey Mustard, Jamaican Jerk, Teriyaki, or Orange Moon Special Sauce 1/2 Pound $8.95 Full Pound $14.95

SANDWICHES

All sandwiches served with your choice of homemade potato chips, fries or onion rings Orange Moon Burger $7.95 A half pound Angus burger loaded with bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato & onion served on a Kaiser roll Grilled Chicken $7.95 Grilled chicken breast topped with sautéed onions, lettuce, tomato and onion vinaigrette dressing. Served on a Kaiser roll Philly Steak or Chicken $7.95 Your choice of steak or chicken piled high with sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms and Monterrey jack cheese Rollin’ Russian $7.95 Shaved Roast Beef, cabbage and hot peppers wrapped in a wonton and deep fried. Served with 1000 Island on the side

Children’s Menu Available

SAT - Sweeney WED - Cinema Cafe THURS - Live Poetry SUN - Sports 1ST FRI - 360 - Persoff

Orange Moon Cafe CORNER OF 11TH & ELLIS STREET

722.9698

DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA TUES - THURS 11:30AM - 11PM FRI & SAT 11:30AM - 2AM SUN 11:30AM - 11PM

39 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

40 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Cinema: Review

MOVIE CLOCK Sat-Sun: 1:25, 3:25, 5:25, 7:15, 9:10; MonThur: 5:25, 7:15, 9:10 Daredevil (PG-13) Fri: 3:10, 5:25, 7:45, 10:00; Sat-Sun: 12:55, 3:10, 5:25, 7:45, 10:00; MonThur: 5:25, 7:45, 10:00 How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) Fri-Sun: 2:20, 4:50, 7:20, 9:40; Mon-Thur: 4:50, 7:20, 9:40 Shanghai Knights (PG-13) Fri-Sun: 2:10, 4:40, 7:30, 9:50; Mon-Thur: 4:40, 7:30, 9:50 The Recruit (PG-13) 4:30, 7:10 Final Destination 2 (R) Fri: 9:30; Sat-Sun: 1:50, 9:30; Mon-Thur: 9:30 Chicago (PG-13) Fri-Sun: 1:55, 4:20, 7:05, 9:20; Mon-Thur: 4:20, 7:05, 9:20 Kangaroo Jack (PG) Fri: 3:35; Sat-Sun: 1:35, 3:35; Mon-Thur: 5:20

REGAL AUGUSTA EXCHANGE 20 Movies Good 2/28 - 3/6 Cradle 2 the Grave (R) Fri-Sat: 12:00, 1:25, 2:20, 4:10, 4:40, 7:10, 7:40, 9:40, 10:10, 12:10, 12:35; Sun-Thur: 12:00, 1:25, 2:20, 4:10, 4:40, 7:10, 7:40, 9:40, 10:10 The Life of David Gale (R) 1:30, 4:30, 7:25, 10:25 Dark Blue (R) Fri-Sat: 12:40, 3:20, 6:55, 9:45, 12:25; Sun-Thur: 12:40, 3:20, 6:55, 9:45 Gods and Generals (PG-13) 1:00, 7:00 Daredevil (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 1:00, 2:10, 3:30, 4:40, 6:30, 7:10, 9:00, 9:35, 11:30, 12:05; Sun-Thur: 1:00, 2:10, 3:30, 4:40, 6:30, 7:10, 9:00, 9:35 Jungle Book 2 (G) Fri-Sat: 12:00, 2:15, 4:30, 7:00, 9:15, 11:05; Sun-Thur: 12:00, 2:15, 4:30, 7:00, 9:15 Old School (R) Fri-Sat: 12:10, 1:35, 2:40, 4:05, 5:10, 7:05, 7:35, 9:20, 9:50, 11:35, 12:10; SunThur: 12:10, 1:35, 2:40, 4:05, 5:10, 7:05, 7:35, 9:20, 9:50 Deliver Us From Eva (R) Fri-Sat: 1:45, 4:20, 7:15, 9:55, 12:20; Sun-Thur: 1:45, 4:20, 7:15, 9:55 Shanghai Knights (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:50, 10:15, 12:40; Sun-Thur: 11:50, 2:20, 4:50, 7:50, 10:15 How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) 12:00, 2:50, 5:25, 8:00, 10:35 Final Destination 2 (R) Fri-Sat: 12:30, 3:05, 5:15, 7:55, 10:20, 12:30; 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, 12:30; Sun-Thur: 12:05, 2:35, 5:00, 7:30, 10:05 Biker Boyz (PG-13) 12:15, 2:55, 5:30, 8:05, 10:40 The Hours (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 1:05, 3:55, 6:55, 9:25, 11:55; 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, 12:40; Sun-Thur: 1:15, 3:35, 5:45, 8:15, 10:25 National Security (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 7:20, 9:30, 11:45; Sun-Thur: 7:20, 9:30 Chicago (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 11:55, 2:25, 4:55, 7:30, 10:00, 12:25; Sun-Thur: 11:55, 2:25, 4:55, 7:30, 10:00 Kangaroo Jack (PG) 1:30, 4:00

MASTERS 7 CINEMAS Movies Good 2/28 - 3/6 Cradle 2 the Grave (R) Fri: 5:20, 7:50, 10:05; Sat: 3:10, 5:20, 7:50, 10:05; Sun: 3:10, 5:20, 7:50; Mon-Thur: 5:20, 7:50 Old School (R) Fri: 5:25, 8:00, 10:10; Sat: 2:55, 5:25, 8:00, 10:10; Sun: 2:55, 5:25, 8:00; MonThur: 5:25, 8:00 Dark Blue (R) Fri: 5:00, 7:30, 9:50; Sat: 2:45, 5:00, 7:30, 9:50; Sun: 2:45, 5:00, 7:30; MonThur: 5:00, 7:30 Daredevil (PG-13) Fri: 5:15, 7:45, 10:00; Sat: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45, 10:00; Sun: 2:30, 5:15, 7:45; Mon-Thur: 5:15, 7:45 Jungle Book 2 (G) Fri: 5:05, 7:45; Sat: 3:00, 5:05, 7:45; Sun: 3:00, 5:05; Mon-Thur: 5:05 Deliver Us From Eva (R) Fri: 7:35; Sat-Sun: 2:35, 7:35; Mon-Thur: 7:35 How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days (PG-13) Fri: 5:10, 7:40, 9:55; Sat: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40, 9:55; Sun: 2:40, 5:10, 7:40; Mon-Thur: 5:10, 7:40 Biker Boyz (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 9:45; Sun-Thur: 7:55 Final Destination 2 (PG-13) Fri-Sat: 5:30, 10:05; Sun-Thur: 5:30 REGAL 12 CINEMAS Movies Good 2/28 - 3/6 Moonlight Mile (PG-13) 2:20, 4:50, 7:30, 10:05 Maid in Manhattan (PG-13) 2:10, 4:40, 7:15, 9:50 Narc (R) 2:15, 4:25, 7:05, 9:30 Drumline (PG-13) 2:45, 5:10, 7:40, 10:10 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 Nex t (R) 2:00, 4:45, 7:00, 9:25 My Big Fat Greek Wedding (PG) 2:05, 4:30, 7:00, 9:35 8 Mile (R) 2:25, 4:55, 7:20, 9:50 The Ring (PG-13) 2:40, 5:00, 7:25, 9:40 Spy Kids 2 (PG) 2:00, 4:25, 7:35, 9:55

EVANS 12 CINEMAS Movies Good 2/28 - 3/6 Cradle 2 the Grave (R) Fri: 3:05, 5:10, 7:25, 9:45; Sat-Sun: 1:00, 3:05, 5:10, 7:25, 9:45; Mon-Thur: 5:10, 7:25, 9:45 The Life of David Gale (R) Fri: 4:00, 7:00, 9:35; Sat-Sun: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:35; Mon-Thur: 4:00, 7:00, 9:35 Gods and Generals (PG-13) Fri-Sun: 2:00, 8:00; Mon-Thur: 8:00 Dark Blue (R) Fri: 4:10, 7:10, 9:45; Sat-Sun: 1:10, 4:10, 7:10, 9:45; Mon-Thur: 4:10, 7:10, 9:45 Old School (R) Fri: 3:35, 5:35, 7:35, 9:55; SatSun: 1:35, 3:35, 5:35, 7:35, 9:55; Mon-Thur: 5:35, 7:35, 9:55 The Pianist (R) Fri-Sun: 5:20, 8:30; Mon-Thur: 8:30 Jungle Book 2 (G) Fri: 3:25, 5:25, 7:15, 9:10;

ASU SPRING FILM SERIES Movie Good 3/3 Antonia’s Line (R) Mon: 7:00

Olde Towne’s Best Kept Secret THE FOX’S

Kevin Spacey Successfully Carries “The Life of David Gale” By David Elliott

he power of a good actor to hold a rather diffuse movie together has seldom been more clear than with “The Life of David Gale,” in which Kevin Spacey is imposingly fine as the title figure. Gale is a philosophy prof, a big brain on campus, favored by students and too favored by one, a grade hustler who sets his loins afire in a party bathroom. Soon, disgraced by a sex scandal, out of work, now a declared alcoholic, with wife and beloved son gone to Spain, David Gale is a middle-aged crisis facing termination, after conviction for murder. Before then, he is involved in the campaign against Texas’ rampant habit of enacting the death penalty. Even though he blows a debate with the pro-kill governor, Gale is much cherished by the crusader Connie, played by Laura Linney. Her shadowy lieutenant is a tightmouthed bumpkin (Matt Craven) who loves Italian opera. That last touch shows frank ambition to make more than a death penalty picture by young writer Charles Randolph and veteran English director Alan Parker. Parker is a go-for-broke artist, whose only style tends to be one of stylized excess “suited to the material.” For this adult thriller, he goes in for a lot of dense flashbacks and weird linkage edits involving words splashed on screen (“suffer,” “anger,” etc.). A surprise finish tries to be a hard-slap revelation, but you might see it coming if you note such things as bourbon-voiced Leon Rippy, as an obviously canny Austin lawyer, being called inept. There is a functional framing device and plot mechanism concerning brilliant New York reporter Bitsey Bloom (brilliant actress Kate Winslet), a “Mike Wallace with PMS.” She is moved from cynicism by interviewing the lucid Gale in the days before impending execution,

her magazine having paid a big fee, and her tag-along intern (Gabriel Mann) fills in utility thriller moves. The cast keeps rescuing the movie from a tendency to wobble off into soapy corners, and its liberal politics are handled with undogmatic skill. Even Rhona Mitra as the firebomb campus lover comes off as a person seriously motivated by real needs, not just something from another Playboy college spread. Spacey’s big speech about death almost poses him as a budding saint, but he is such a strong, to-the-bone actor that he overcomes the halo effect (as he does not in “Pay It Forward,” where the performance seems trapped in burn scars). With both Winslet and Linney, especially the latter in a backyard scene of heartsharing, he is wonderful. Few will have their feelings on the death penalty and prescribed execution shifted by more than an inch. Just about everyone should feel that Spacey, Winslet, Linney and the others have delivered some human truths “suited to the material.”

THE AUGUSTA PLAYERS PRESENTS

Lair

RESTAURANT & BAR

Lunch Tues-Fri 11:30-2:00

Happy Hour 4-7 Daily

Live Entertainment Thur-Fri-Sat In the Basement of the DeLaigle House Inn B & B Victorian Village (Enter thru rear courtyard)

349 Telfair Street

706.828.5600

Book by Thomas Meehan • Music by Charles Strouse • Lyrics by Martin Charnin

at the Imperial Theatre

February 28, March 1 & 2 For tickets call: 826-4707 or visit www.augustaplayers.com Produced by special arrangements with Music Theatre International

Music

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

The Mesmerizing Music of Kitty Snyder

2 7

BY LISA JORDAN

2 0 0 3

he music of singer-songwriter Kitty Snyder has the inescapable pull of an ocean current. Sparse instrumentation draws you in, and when Snyder’s subtle yet powerful voice meets the music, there’s no going back. You’re hooked. Snyder’s music, though, is all about the mood. There’s something beautiful about the way her haunting melodies hang in the air. “It’s not intentional, but I guess it’s simply a structure that was built on me feeling, well, haunted,” Snyder says. “I’ve only written one song when I was happy, and even that song came out really melancholy.” It seems that for Snyder, creation is closely linked to emotion. Her “My Trips to the Oddities” album took two and a half years to write, for that very reason. “The fact that they come out sounding that way is because I’m almost always out of sorts when I write,” she says. “I guess my ups and downs account for the two and a half years it took me to write this album. If I was always happy, I wouldn’t have an album. But of course, if I was always down, I would either have hundreds of albums or go insane!” So far, there’s only two – “Oddities” and 1999’s “Celebrate” – but Snyder’s commitment to and love for what she does ensures we’ll be hearing more from her in the future. “I started singing and writing when I was 17,” says Snyder. “A friend at school taught me a couple chords. I bought a Neil Young book and Cat Stevens book, learned every song. Neil Young’s brilliance inspired me to write my own songs. I struggled through those ridiculous early songs, and for some innate, mysterious reason, haven’t been able to stop.” Snyder is currently a fixture on Athensbased Pitch-A-Tent records, a label owned by David Lowery of Cracker fame. The label lists Camper Van Beethoven, Je Suis France and Cracker among its artists. The kind of support that Snyder has enjoyed from her label and also from the Athens music community at large is what made the city a great choice for Snyder to relocate to when she left her hometown of Buffalo. “Although I enjoyed where I grew up, I moved from Buffalo with a good friend

“If I was always happy, I wouldn’t have an album. But of course, if I was always down, I would either have hundreds of albums or go insane!”

when I finally couldn’t take western New York anymore,” she says. “I went to college in a tiny, two-bar town, and it was too often very, very cold and very snowy. I needed a change. Athens was perfect for challenging myself as a songwriter as well. The Athens scene was conducive to making music because of the history, the support from other musicians, the lack of competition. The music clubs, like the 40 Watt, are very supportive.” Snyder has since moved to Atlanta, another mark on the continuing journey that characterizes the evolution of her music. “I played totally solo in Athens for a while and then got my three-piece band going,” she says. “But once we moved to Atlanta a couple years ago, I started a fuller band with piano to complete the

story-like nature of the songs. Now we’re stripped down, just with more instruments. “I think working solo contributes to my ability to really feel right about a song. I also think living in Athens for seven years lends itself to writing and performing this way, because most people who start feeling like a townie in Athens feel like they actually live in this stripped-down way.” Snyder will be playing with a full band at the Soul Bar Saturday, March 8. For more information, visit www.soulbar.com. You can also preview just what you’re in store for by listening to sample tracks on Snyder’s Web site, www.kittysnyder.com/kitty. IS THAT ROBERT PLANT? March 8 also brings a treat of a different kind to Augusta. Zoso, billing itself as The

Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience, will be paying homage to the quintessential rock ‘n’ roll band. Together since 1995, the members of Zoso portray Zeppelin originals Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Bonham and John Paul Jones right down to the British accents. A rigorous tour schedule keeps the band on top of their game. Zoso, who formed on the West Coast, has played all over the U.S. and was named Best Tribute Act in California by L.A.’s Rock City News. Zoso usually plays to diverse crowds, a mixture of youngsters who weren’t yet around to catch Zeppelin in its heyday and older folks who just want to relive the Led Zeppelin rock ‘n’ roll experience. Check them out at Crossroads on Saturday, March 8.

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

MUSIC

Paid Advertisement

StraighTalk

BY TURNER

0% TRUE OR FALSE? For the past sixteen plus months the captive finance arms of the automotive industry have been offering consumers 0% percent interest on auto loans with terms ranging from 24 to 60 months. Are there really any loans with 0% interest?

2 7

DO THE MATH.

2 0 0 3

Conventional Purchase. Let’s do the math. Consumer “A” buys a car for $23,000.00. The manufacturer offers a rebate of $3000.00. The tax is $300.00 and the tag transfer fee is $13.00 bringing the total cash liability to $20,313.00. The car is financed for 60 months at an A.P.R. of 4.50%. At a payment of $378.70 times 60 months........

The total pay-out would be $22,722.00

0 % PURCHASE Consumer “B” buys the same exact car for $23,000.00. In lieu of the rebate the customer opts for the 0% option for 60 months. The tax is $300.00 and the tag transfer fee is $13.00 bringing the total cash liability to $23,313.00. At a payment of $388.55 times 60 months ......

The total pay-out would be $23,313.00. Consumer “B” ......... • Will pay more for the car than consumer “A”. • Has prepaid all the interest charges to the manufacturer’s bank in the price of the car by not taking the rebate to lower the principal. • Will lose the benefit of the deal if the loan is paid off early by not receiving any return on the lost rebate being held by the manufacturer. • The manufacturer will probably reserve the original rebate and pay interest as it is earned to their lending branch. If customer pays the loan off early or trades the car and the loan is paid off, the manufacturer picks up the difference of the consumers prepaid interest thereby increasing their profit.

The Answer:

FALSE There is no 0% interest. You only prepay it in the price. Beware of the Financial “shell” Game

Buy your cars from the manufacturers that are NOT playing the financial “shell” game with your money. Manufacturers that have no financial games indicate high quality and desirable products that will hold their value. There are all kinds of deals in the market today. Make sure you do the math before you buy!

1-8

t was a pitch-black, moonless-midnight shade of improbability. As far as dark horses go, NORAH JONES’ five Grammy nominations were considered by many last week to be nothing more than bio filler-fodder. This was especially true with EMINEM competing head-to-head with the young Texan diva in most of the categories. Other than best new artist, Ms. Jones’ chances in the other categories were KAREN CARPENTER slim. Of course, Norah Jones’ sweeping of this year’s Grammy Awards might just be a rap on rap and a vindication for melody. Her yearold “Come Away With Me” is bursting with great, well-crafted songs that deserve this great recognition. It will be interesting to see how much new material she has written or stockpiled when she completes her sophomore release later in the year, a critical situation for a musician. As the old story goes, an artist has an entire lifetime to write their first album but only six months for the second. Stay tuned. HEAVY GLOW TIME DEPT. THE RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS begin their long U.S. tour in May with several dates planned for Southern cities. Their latest disc “By the Way” was a top-10 smash last year and remains their best long-player in years. You can catch FLEA and the guys June 6 at Charlotte’s Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre with a Hi-Fi Buys Amphitheatre show set for two nights later on June 8. SNOOP DOG and MARS VOLTA will open. JAMES TAYLOR, another past Grammy winner and performer at this year’s event, has 55 US dates planned this spring and summer. The ageless singer visits Atlanta’s Chastain Park June 2-3 for one of only three multinight performances of the entire tour. His last disc “October Road” has sold almost a million copies to date, a fact even more amazing when you consider that most radio outlets (including every Augusta station) never played anything from the album. ONE HURRICANE WON’T HURT DEPT. The 2003 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival has another stellar cast of participants set for this year. The Fair runs on two consecutive long weekends (they do know how to have a good time at the Big Easy) April 2427 and May1-4. Some of the acts this year

www.csrahonda.com

1.800.207.5771 550 Jefferson Davis Highway, Aiken S.C.

Eminem

include BUDDY GUY, LOS LOBOS, SMOKEY ROBINSON, MAVIS STAPLES, KEB’ MO’, AL JARREAU, BOB DYLAN, JOE COCKER, THE CRUSADERS, JOHN MAYER, ANGELA BOFILL, LUCINDA WILLIAMS, INDIA. ARIE, AND CROSBY, STILLS AND NASH. See you at the Acme Oyster Bar. NEW ALBUMS RELEASED DURING THE PAST FEW WEEKS INCLUDE: NICK CAVE AND THE BAD SEEDS “Nocturama,” JOHN FAHEY “Red Cross,” VINCE GILL “Next Big Thing,” JEFFREY GAINES “Toward the Sun,” DARYL HALL AND JOHN OATES “Do It for Love,” JOHN HAMMOND “Ready for Love,” THE GOBETWEENS “Bright Yellow,” STYX “Cyclorama,” RICHARD ASHCROFT “Human Conditions,” DOYLE BRAMHALL “Fitchburg Street,” STANLEY CLARKE “One, Two to the Bass,” FUNKY METERS “Fiyo at the Fillmore,” EDWIN MCCAIN “The Austin Sessions,” MASSIVE ATTACK “100th Window,” and WILCO AND THE MINUS FIVE “Down with Wilco.” TURNER’S ROCK ‘N’ ROLL JEOPARDY: A. This veteran rocker once said, “We had big success in America. The bigger my hair got, the more records we sold.” Q. Who is DAVID COVERDALE (of Whitesnake)?

ED TURNER Visit us online. For all the latest in Arts, Entertainment and Local Events. Visit our website at metspirit.com.

MUSIC MINIS

AUGUSTA NATIVE WINS TWO GRAMMYS Men’s vocal group Chanticleer took home two Grammys for their CD “Sir John Tavener’s Lamentations and Praises,” co-commissioned by Chanticleer, the Handel & Haydn Society of Boston and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Joseph Jennings New York. The piece is a 70minute extravaganza of liturgical drama written just for the 12 voices of Chanticleer and their strange combo of instrumentation and electronics. They won awards for Classical Best Small Ensemble Performance and Best Classical Contemporary Composition. Yay for them. The truly neat thing about it is that their musical director, Joseph Jennings, who directed both Chanticleer and the Handel & Haydn Society of Boston on the recording, is an Augusta native. Way to score one for the home team.

GREAT WHITE FEELIN’ THE HEAT Well, Great White are going to court. Some of them anyway. Last week, nearly 100 people were killed in a nightclub fire in West Warwick, R.I. Basically, the band caught the place on fire. Experts say it looks like a cheap, flammable alternative to expertapproved fire-resistant panels may have been partially to blame. Reports say that the club’s sound man told the press he’d warned the owner, Michael Derderian, that bands were using pyrotechnics at his club and that he really didn’t think it was a good idea. Reports say that the club passed a recent fire inspection, but it isn’t clear whether soundproofing material is routinely included in inspections. MICHAEL JACKSON STRIKES AGAIN Billboard.com reports that Michael Jackson is in pursuit of a court injunction to prevent Granada, the company that released Martin Bashir’s documentary “Living With Michael Jackson,” from releasing unused footage. Go figure. WHO SHOT BUSTA RHYMES’ SUV? Somebody shot up rapper Busta Rhymes’ SUV while it was parked outside the offices of Violator Records, according to Billboard.com. What was Rhymes doing in a soccer mom-mobile?

COMPILED BY RHONDA JONES

43 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

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

Night Life

F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Thursday, 27th The Bee’s Knees - 12 Tone Lounge Blind Pig - David Perry and Band Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford Club Argos - Karaoke Night Coliseum - Karaoke, High-Energy Dance Music 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 - Keith “Fossill” Gregory Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Modjeska - Three Six ty Orange Moon - Spoken Word Poetry Playground - Open Mic Soul Bar - Tur tleneck, A Fir-Ju Well, Origin Stool Pigeons - Jason and Michael Time Piecez - DJ Dance Par ty Whiskey Junction - DJ Chaos

Friday, 28th The Bee’s Knees - The Galen Kipar Project Blind Pig - Shameless Dave and the Miracle Whips featuring Pops Borders - Miles Anderson Cadillac’s - New Day Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford Club Argos - Spectral Erosa with DJ Triskyl, Claire Storm Coconuts - DJs Doug and Eric Coliseum - The Goddess of Love, Venus Continuum - Rebel Lion, I.S.D. Cotton Patch - John and Andy Coyote’s - The Rhes Reeves Band Crossroads - Seat tle: Tribute, 420 Outback

D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Durango’s - Magic Hat Fox’s Lair - Live Enter tainment Greene Streets - Karaoke Hangnail Gallery - Pit of Fury, Object, Shoot the Messenger, Shell Highlander - Adams Township Joe’s Underground - Keith “Fossill” Gregory Last Call - Tony Howard, DJ Richie Rich Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Modjeska - DJ Boriqua Soul Bar - Disco Hell Surrey Tavern - Playback with Tutu Devine Whiskey Junction - Liquid Squid, DJ Paul

Modjeska - DJ Boriqua Orange Moon - Sweeney Soul Bar - Super Stereo Hi-Fi Mix Surrey Tavern - Playback with Tutu Devine Whiskey Junction - DJ Paul Whiskey Road Oyster Factory - Weston & Preston

Saturday, 1st

Monday, 3rd

The Bee’s Knees - Jazz Sessions, Drum & Bass Blind Pig - Shameless Dave and the Miracle Whips Borders - A Step Up Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford Club Argos - Mardi Gras All-Male Revue Coconuts - DJs Doug and Eric Coliseum - Hot Male Gabriel, Full Moon Mardi Gras Par ty Continuum - Step Show Af ter Par ty Cotton Patch - Kool Kats Coyote’s - The Rhes Reeves Band Crossroads - Ly thium, Bind D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Durango’s - Magic Hat Fox’s Lair - Wayne Capps Greene Streets - Karaoke Joe’s Underground - Happy Bones Last Call - Tony Howard, DJ Richie Rich Metro Coffeehouse - Galen Kipar Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock

Coliseum - Q.A.F. Continuum - Monday Madness with Perry Anderson Crossroads - Dance Par ty with DJ Chris Greene Streets - Karaoke Joe’s Underground - Keith “Fossill” Gregory

Catch Galen Kipar at The Bee’s Knees Feb. 28 and at the Metro Coffeehouse March 1.

Sunday, 2nd Borders - Emory Bennet t Cafe Du Teau - Buzz Clif ford and The Last Bohemian Quar tet Somewhere in Augusta - John Kolbeck Whiskey Junction - Wayne Capps

Tuesday, 4th Adams Nightclub - Karaoke with Bill Tolber t The Bee’s Knees - Comin’ ‘Round the Bend Classic Country Blind Pig - Buzz Clif ford and Friends Coliseum - Tournament Tuesday D. Timm’s - Joe Patchen and the Blue Diamond Express Greene Streets - Karaoke Highlander - Open Mic Night Joe’s Underground - Keith “Fossill” Gregory Metro Coffeehouse - Irish Music with Sibin Michael’s - Marilyn Adcock Stool Pigeons - Karaoke with Linda Eubanks

Surrey Tavern - Tuesday Night Jam Session with Pat Blanchard and Friends

Wednesday, 5th The Bee’s Knees - Mellow Sounds Supper Club Blind Pig - David and Friends Coliseum - Wet ‘n’ Wild Talent Search with Ravionne Starr 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 Orange Moon - Cinema Cafe Playground - Karaoke with Dave Long Somewhere in Augusta - Patrick Blanchard Soul Bar - Live Jazz

Upcoming The Goodies - Soul Bar - March 6 Zoso - Crossroads - March 8 Quiet Riot - Crossroads - March 12 Travis Tritt - Bell Auditorium - March 21 Ra - Crossroads - April 1

Elsewhere Double Drive - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - Feb. 27 Swingin’ Medallions - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - Feb. 27 Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band - The Arena at Gwinnet t Center, Duluth, Ga. - Feb. 28 Clutch - Masquerade, Atlanta - Feb. 28

continued on page 46

Club Argos holds its monthly goth/industrial night, Spectral Erosa, Feb. 28. DJ Triskyl (pictured) and Claire Storm will provide entertainment.

Coyote’s is having an Anniversary

We’re 2 years old & to celebrate We’re going wild all weekend long!!!! March 4-8

WED, MARCH 5TH

FINALS OF THE MASQUERADE BIKINI CONTEST Weekly winners will compete for cash & a trip to New Orleans!

THUR, MARCH 6TH

CHIPPENDALES MALE REVUE The one and only Chippendales. Doors open at 6:00 & show starts at 8:00 o’clock sharp. Guys get in at 10:00

FRI & SAT, MARCH 7 & 8

PARTY SPECIALS ALL WEEKEND LONG

AUGUSTA’S ONLY KARAOKE BAR! ~ OPEN 6 N IGHTS A WEEK ~ JOIN US FOR OUR NATIONAL KARAOKE CONTEST

F E B 2 7

Wednesday - Women Thursday - Men 1st 12 weeks - Country & Western 2nd 12 weeks - Rock/Pop/ Rhythm & Blues/Soul

2 0 0 3

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.

Greene Streets Karaoke Bar

2512 PEACH ORCHARD ROAD • 706-560-9245

M E T R O S P I R I T

“Where Variety Is The Spice of Life!”

Home of Rhes Reeves Band

Corner of Greene & 11th Street • 823-2002 Mon-Fri 3pm-3am • Sat 6pm-2am

INTRODUCING SPIRIT CLASSIFIEDS

DETAILS ON SEESEEDETAILS ONPAGE PAGE53 63

IT’S EASY

46 continued from page 44

2 0 0 3

Origin (pictured) performs Thursday night at the Soul Bar with Turtleneck and A Fir-Ju Well. Sister Hazel, Indigo Girls, Edwin McCain Ear thlink Live, Atlanta - March 22 2 Skinnee J’s - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. March 22 Duncan Sheik - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 23 The Red Elvises - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 26 Sigur Ros - Tabernacle, Atlanta - March 27 Nocturne - Riviera, Atlanta - March 27 Slightly Stoopid - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 29 Rebirth Brass Band, Mofro - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - April 3 Jimmie Vaughan - Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - April 5 Zwan - The Tabernacle, Atlanta - April 7 The Used - 40 Wat t Club, Athens, Ga. - April 9; Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - April 11 George Lopez - Tabernacle, Atlanta - April 11 Guster - The Tabernacle, Atlanta - April 19 Suwannee Bound Festival - Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, Live Oak, Fla. - April 19-20 Ellen DeGeneres - Woodruf f Ar ts Center, Atlanta - April 20 Taking Back Sunday - Cot ton Club, Atlanta April 23 Cher - Philips Arena, Atlanta - April 25 Superfly Jazz Fest - Various Venues, New Orleans, La. - April 25-May 4 Avril Lavigne - The Arena at Gwinnet t Center, Duluth, Ga. - May 8

New Day will perform Friday night at Cadillac’s. 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.

Surrey Tavern 471 Highland Ave.

This Weekend “Playback” with TuTu Devine

736-1221

PAT BLANCHARD & FRIENDS $1 JAGER TOOTERS + $1.75 BUD LIGHT NO COVER

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.

• •

2 7

•• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••• •••

F E B

••• ••• ••• •••

S P I R I T

Appetite for Destruction - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - Feb. 28 Oteil, Col. Bruce Hampton - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - Feb. 28 King Crimson - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta March 1 Interpol, Raveonettes - 40 Wat t Club, Athens, Ga. - March 1 Vince Gill - Ear thlink Live, Atlanta - March 1 Stewart & Winfield - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - March 1 Bain Mattox - Caledonia, Athens, Ga. - March 1 Tim Easton - Red Light Cafe, Atlanta - March 1 Dezeray’s Hammer - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - March 1 Maroon 5 - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 1; Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - March 2 Kevn Kinney - Chip’s, Athens, Ga. - March 2 Sum 41, No Use For A Name - The Tabernacle, Atlanta - March 2 Lyricist Lounge - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 2 Hookah Brown - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 5 Coldplay - The Arena at Gwinnet t Center, Duluth, Ga. - March 6 Further Seems Forever - Cot ton Club, Atlanta March 6 Bill Gaither and Friends - Charlot te Coliseum, Charlot te, N.C. - March 7 Sound Tribe Sector 9 - Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - March 7-8 The Smiling Assassins - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta - March 8 Les Nubians - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 8 Sugarland - Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - March 8 Carissa’s Weird - New Brookland Tavern, Columbia, S.C. - March 8; The Mezzane, Charleston, S.C. - March 9; The Earl, Atlanta March 10 Smiling Assassins - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta March 8; Georgia Theatre, Athens, Ga. - March 11 Grenadier Guards - Fox Theatre, Atlanta March 9 Yanni - Philips Arena, Atlanta - March 11 The Roots - Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - March 12 Stereomud, Saliva, Breaking Benjamin - Music Farm, Charleston, S.C. - March 12; Roxy Theatre, Atlanta - March 13 The Exies - Senate Park, Columbia, S.C. - March 14 Todd Snider, Dodd Ferrelle - Tasty World, Athens, Ga. - March 15 Switchfoot - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 15 The Datsuns - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 17 Tim McGraw and the Dance Hall Doctors Philips Arena, Atlanta - March 18 The Soundtrack of Our Lives - Cot ton Club, Atlanta - March 18 Project/Object - Variety Playhouse, Atlanta March 21 Earl Scruggs, The Blind Boys of Alabama - The Tabernacle, Atlanta - March 21

••• •• •• ••

M E T R O

= Jam Session Tuesday Night

Open Monday-Saturday at 4 pm until

News of the

Weird T

hough state tax revenues are shrinking nationwide, Kansas reported in January that taxes paid on marijuana sales were up 5 percent and taxes paid on cocaine, methamphetamine and other hard drugs were up 20 percent. As other states do, Kansas sells revenue stamps (in denominations from $10 to $1,000) that dealers are supposed to affix to the drugs in order to sell them. Even though such sales themselves are illegal, law enforcement agencies are forbidden from accessing information on the sellers (and if they did, any conviction would probably be tossed out, as based on unconstitutional selfincrimination). A Revenue Department spokesman guessed that most people who buy the stamps are merely collectors. • A January Wall Street Journal report described “dB Drag Racing,” a “sport” in which the winning car is not the fastest, but the one with the loudest stereo system; but ordinary urban street cruisers are not in these drivers’ league. In the extreme category, cars are completely rebuilt and powered with enough juice to operate several private homes. Extra-thick glass and concrete poured into the floor and doors keep the sound inside, where the measurement takes place. Last year’s winner, from Germany, registered 177.7 decibels. War News • People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) wrote to Yasser Arafat deploring public bombings, at least when the bomb is delivered (as one was on Jan. 26 in Jerusalem) on a donkey. (Said a PETA official, “It’s not my business to (comment on) human wars.”) And to help the U.S. military, a Las Vegas porno distributor offered 500 videos free of charge (except for postage) to servicemen as thanks for their sacrifice. And in Cebu, Philippines, in February, a German man, Frank Oesterle, was detained by police after knifing an American tourist at a bar; they were arguing over their respective countries’ views on imminent war in Iraq (i.e., U.S., fight; Germany, don’t fight). Can’t Possibly Be True • Allison Adams, 23, a veterinary technician for Wildlife Rescue in Austin, Texas, warms up traumatized baby animals (squirrels, kittens, rabbits, etc.) by putting them in her bra (while she’s wearing it), according to a profile in the Austin American-Statesman in January. Her report: Squirrels are the hardest; possums the easiest; she’s done it about 75 times; no, they don’t itch; her fiancé is OK with it (even though he was deprived of a hug once because of “hissing possums”). • Gloria DeFrancesco, 61, filed a lawsuit in Akron, Ohio, in December against TV evangelist Ernest Angley, alleging that the muscle men who surround the stage dur-

ing his healing sessions roughed her up in August 2001 while she was accompanying her 94-year-old, wheelchair-using, generously tithing mother to be cured. DeFrancesco said she was struck, grabbed and pushed by six men, resulting in a detached retina and other head, nose and body injuries that required hospitalization and surgery. • According to trial coverage in the Omaha World-Herald in October, the prosecutor of accused Omaha sexual assaulter Akhiktemelo Braimah said that DNA evidence indicated that the probability of another “African-American” besides Braimah having committed the assault was “1 in 30.3 sextillion” (“303” followed by 20 zeros). (30.3 sextillion represents 5 trillion times the number of people of all nationalities on Earth right now and 303 billion times the likely number who have ever lived.) Braimah pleaded no contest two days later. • The BBC reported in January that Holger Voss has been ordered to court in Muenster, Germany, accused of breaking its law against “glorification of a criminal act.” According to a complaint to police, Voss had written on an Internet message board, “Congratulations to the murderers of (Sept. 11).” Voss told a BBC reporter that he obviously meant to be sarcastic, but court spokesman Juergen Wrobel said that would be for the court to decide. • Freshman Missouri state Rep. Cynthia Davis, at a legislative orientation session in December in Jefferson City, took her turn at learning how to preside over debates and interrupted Rep. Chuck Graham, who had the floor. According to a report in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Davis recited the rule that members must be standing in order to speak and that Graham was thus out of order, in that the veteran legislator Graham has been in a wheelchair for 21 years, the result of a car accident.

I N T E R N E T P R I C E S - LO C A L CO N V E N I E N C E 246-A Bobby Jones Expressway | 650-9977 | Open 7 Days

Free Automotive Ads For Our Readers SEEPAGE PAGE 5342 SEE

Least Competent Criminals • Tyrone Jermain Hogan, 20, pleaded guilty in Los Angeles in February to attempted carjacking, six months after trying to steal a van that, unbeknownst to him at the time, was carrying a martial arts team visiting from Florida International University; the students, said their instructor, held Hogan “like a pretzel on the ground” until police arrived. And Edgar A. Brown, 27, was arrested in Worthington, Ohio, in January and charged with robbing the First Merit Bank; police were tipped off after Brown paid his electric bill at a Columbus store using red-stained $50 bills. — Chuck Shepherd © United Press Syndicate

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

OUR SERVICE MAKES US THE BEST

One on One Customer Service Over 25 years of experience in men’s clothing Big, Tall, Regular, Small ... We Fit Them All.

BARKSDALE’S MENSWEAR 4432 Washington Road, Evans GA (across from Evans Diner) 706-228-1661

#7 Old Waynesborough, Waynesboro, GA 706-554-3352

People With Issues • Retired pediatrician Alva J. Hartwright, 63, pleaded guilty in February to sexually assaulting two boys, age 11 and 14 at the time, by giving them enemas (part of a 30-year pattern, said prosecutors, of administering enemas to as many as 40 boys). When police arrested Hartwright at his home in June in Morrisville, Pa., they found “feces everywhere,” with “so much feces in one room (that) it was impassable,” said an officer. Also found were “thousands” of photographic images of boys receiving enemas, all of which, insisted Hartwright, were “medically necessary” and not sexually gratifying to him.

!"#$%&$'()*+(),+(-)+(--+(-.+(-/(&01(2&$34() <&**/182?2RKSK222.G0E82-2RKSK T)(/*:&*/+2<)B2.R/@&)(U22V0A12+R/@&)(2+0S/0*/ 1/@/&'/+2@)*;B82)210+/2)*;2S01/2):2*02/P:1)2@G)1O/U !"#$%&'&(&)*+ !,-$./*&01+23452620'/17829/:&1//+82)*;2<=2%&'&(&)*+ !>?$=@:&'/2<A:B2C?262D/(0EF !>#$.G0E2H*(BF 3F*0:2)')&()I(/2J/IK2>LK2MG/+/2:&@N/:+2)')&()I(/20*(B2:G10AOG2I0P20QQ&@/K7

5&66(.789/,,-(:;$($"<"$=&>?;0<(;$(=?<?>(@@@A:;$>B;$1;0A3;C

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Brezsny's Free Will Astrology ARIES (March 21-April 19)

Is hope overrated? While it can provide consolation when life is painfully confounding, the Sufi poet Rumi suggested that it may actually get in the way of finding a cure. “When water gets caught in habitual whirlpools,” he wrote, “dig a way out through the bottom to the ocean. There is a secret medicine given only to those who hurt so hard they cannot hope. The hopers would feel slighted if they knew.” What if Rumi was right, Aries? Speaking on behalf of the astrological omens, I advise you to let hopelessness be your guide in the coming week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Some astrologers theorize that there’s an undiscovered planet called Vulcan, whose orbit is inside that of Mercury. Because it’s so close to the sun’s obliterating blaze, scientists haven’t detected it. In ancient Roman mythology, Vulcan was the god of metal-working. From his forge beneath the earth, he made tools for himself and the other gods. His creations were renowned for both their usefulness and beauty. The astrologers who propose the existence of the planet Vulcan say it’s the ruler of Taurus. I bring this to your attention because it so happens that you’re poised to channel its influence with maximum strength in the coming weeks. Try this meditation: Visualize yourself wielding controlled fire to forge beautiful and useful things for you and your powerful allies.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Each year the science magazine, Annals of Improbable Research, awards Ig Nobel Prizes to imaginative eccentrics. A prize in chemistry was once given to researchers who discovered that romantic infatuation is biochemically indistinguishable from obsessive-compulsive disorder; other prizes have gone to the “Stalin World” amusement park, software that can detect a cat walking on a computer keyboard, and a report on “Courtship Behavior of Ostriches Towards Humans Under Farming Conditions.” If it were up to me, Gemini,

I’d give you an Ig Nobel Prize for what you’re about to do, which will fulfill one of the main criteria for winning: pulling off an entertaining feat that first makes people laugh, then makes them think.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

Do you have a lucky number? Many people do. Some decide on theirs by choosing a number that figured prominently in one of their life’s turning points. Others arrive at it by adding the digits of their birth date or by taking the numerological value of their name. So-called “master numbers” like 22, 33, and 55 are favorites, too. Personally, I have two special numbers: 23 zillion and 3.1415926, the value of pi. I hope this whets your imagination, Cancerian. Your fortunes are in the process of changing, and it would be a good time to pick a new lucky number. If I were you, I’d also seek out a new power animal, initiation name, and talismanic symbol.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

The most dangerous frame of mind for you to inhabit in the next six weeks — the state of awareness that would be most harmful to your long-term interests — would be utter certainty. You simply cannot afford to be a know-it-all expert who’s fixated on a set of seemingly foolproof theories. On the other hand, Leo, if you’re willing to question everything you think you know, robust health and emotional wealth will surely be yours. Here’s a ritual to set the mood: Put angel food cake and devil’s food cake on a plate, then take five bites of each while intoning the affirmation, “I am hungry for the kaleidoscopic, chameleon-like, unimaginable truth.”

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

My Aquarian and Sagittarian friends are the best laughers I know. By that I mean that they laugh longer and more frequently than most. They also tend to chortle at ironies that others take way too seriously. Best of all, their laughs are works of art: sudden, explosive, wild and uncanny. I mention this, Virgo, because I believe you’re entering a phase when you’ll have the potential to mutate into ACROSS

an Aquarian- or Sagittarian-style laugher. Please take full advantage of this hilarious opportunity. Explore the untapped depths of your sense of humor. Give your laughter the chance to grow dramatically in its power to heal both you and everyone who is sprayed with the saliva flung out during your paroxysms of primal amusement.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Last year The Boston Globe ran 901 corrections of previously published information. In other words, it averaged 17.3 acknowledged mistakes per week. The Chicago Tribune’s total was 658, or 12.7 errors per week. Even though your blooper rate will be higher than usual in the coming days, it won’t come anywhere near theirs. There’ll be no excuse for berating yourself or succumbing to massive outbreaks of guilt, then, will there? Even at your most flub-prone, you’ll still be more perfect than two of America’s most well-respected newspapers. I suggest, though, that to minimize flak from insensitive critics, you borrow the Globe’s or Tribune’s approach. You can get away with a lot if “I confess” or “I’m sorry” is always on the tip of your tongue.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Arunothai Sriaran is Thailand’s new “Miss Drunk.” She won the title in a contest after gulping down too much wine and navigating her way through an obstacle course while wearing a heavy silk dress and golden headgear. In the insouciant spirit of this wicked fun, and in accordance with your current astrological omens, I hereby name you “Ms. (or Mr.) Drunk-on-Life.” Your carefree and mischievously benevolent reign will last for either three weeks or until you stop learning new tricks about the art of being intelligently wild, whichever comes last.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You’re progressing nicely in your efforts to master life’s most complicated skills. For instance, you’re making better and better mistakes all the time. You’re getting pretty good at being three places at once, too; and with every passing month you know more about using your fears to motivate you so they won’t paralyze you. What you’d benefit from most right now, though, is a refresher course in the simplest fundamentals. For starters, you still have a lot to learn about how to sleep and eat. And it’s not too far-fetched to say that you could use some breathing lessons. For that matter, Sagittarius, you’re not exactly a PhD in the art of happiness. I

38 Label on many

an advertising photo 69-, 70- and 71Across 41 Washington State’s Sea-___ 14 “___ off?” Airport 15 Earthling 42 Pantywaist 16 Vargas Llosa novel “___ Julia 43 Adherent in Iran and the 44 Work boot Scriptwriter” feature 17 Ye follower 46 Clockmaker 18 Blue dyes Terry 19 Atlases, e.g.: 47 How some Abbr. rebukes are made 20 Cruelty 22 Hebrew prophet 49 “Life ___ cabaret” 24 Milk provider 52 Creepy-crawlies 25 P.D. alert 54 38-Down was 27 Cheated the second one 30 Div. of a former 55 R.N.’s treatment union 56 Rarely 31 They have big bills 59 Unconcerned retort 34 Outside: Prefix 61 Kind of bag 35 Relating to life 36 Philips product 63 Period 1, 5 & 10 Need for

THANK YOU For Supporting Our Advertisers

New York Times Crossword Puzzle

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE S W A T H E

P O T H E R

A M O R T S

C A S T I R O N

A L P A C I N O

S T E N O P A D

R A N E E

S N E E R A S T E A I L L L N E N E

L U C Y E O G O A I L R A U I T N O S P O I N A

A S I A

M E T R I I C D I D O O T H W I N G

I N K Y

B G O R R A I I K S D R T S I O U L D L E A G S E M P H O R C N O M O A R E O A L L T O I A N O

B R E A D N U T

S E A G A T E S

A R N O L D

P E E W E E

65 Surrounding

light 66 Litigious one 67 “And then again …” 68 Desktop marker 69, 70 & 71 What the middle of this puzzle is DOWN 1 Snares 2 Marriage byproduct 3 Yes-man, perhaps 4 “___ Sleep, for Every Favor” (old hymn) 5 It might be next to a bar of soap 6 Bit of wit 7 Provençal pal 8 “Safe” or “out” 9 Academy graduate 10 ___ Abdel Nasser 11 Unfeeling 12 Place to lay over 13 Skid row ailment 21 Like Britain’s Private Eye magazine 23 Antidrug mantra 26 Fit up against 28 Split personalities? 29 Feeble-minded 32 Informal goodbyes

suggest you sniff around to see if there are any crafty elders offering workshops on how to regard everything that comes your way as a blessing.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Forget about the 900-pound gorilla problem, Capricorn; you’ve got it pretty much neutralized for now. I suggest you turn your attention to the threegram hummingbird dilemma: you know, the beautiful little bundle of nonstop energy darting around like neon fire. Please keep in mind that the brave forcefulness you summoned to deal with the gorilla may not be of much help in this fresh challenge. A suggestion: Try tuning in to your own inner hummingbird.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

“The elephant never gets tired of carrying its tusks,” says a proverb of the Vai tribe in Liberia. I suggest you make that a central meditation in the coming week, Aquarius. Maybe it’ll inspire you to intensify your commitment to the duties that make you so unique and beautiful. It’s the perfect astrological moment to do that. Do not, however, interpret the proverb to mean you should keep hauling around toxic emotions that you generated while neurotically slaving away at obnoxious duties in the distant past. They not only weaken and uglify you, they’re also unnecessary. Dump them.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

The average Pisces catches 147 colds in a lifetime, endures a serious case of hurt feelings three times a month, and fantasizes about the end of the world once every 6.2 days. I predict, however, that you will experience none of the above during the coming weeks. That’s because you’re slipping into a grace period that may shock you with its ease, beauty, and abundance. It will be a time when your innocence regenerates and your wisdom freshens; a seed time when your determination to feel good will trump your habitual tendencies to expect the worst; a time of awakening when your perceptions will deepen and expand even as the world is created anew right in front of your eyes. — © Rob Brezsny You Can Call Rob Brezsny, day or night, for your Expanded Weekly Horoscope

1-900-950-7700

$1.99 per minute • 18 & over • Touchtone phone required • C/S 612-373-9785 • www.freewillastrology.com/

22 26

27 32

45 49

34 36

35 38

55 59

60 65

Puzzle by Patrick Merrell

33 Ins have it

45 Nearly

35 She played

48 Ted Williams

Maude on “Maude”

37 Limo passenger 38 See 54-Across

and others

49 Cornell’s home 50 Winter

Olympics event

57 Other, in

España

58 “Death in

Venice” author

60 Antiroyalist, in

the Revolution

39 Scottie in the

51 Broadway

61 Scolding sound 62 Ja, across the

40 Craved

53 Turns

64 Vishnu, e.g.

White House

opening?

Rhine

For answers, call 1-900-285-5656, $1.20 a minute; or, with a credit card, 1-800-814-5554. Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. Online subscriptions: Today's puzzle and more than 2,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/diversions ($19.95 a year). Crosswords for young solvers: The Learning Network, nytimes.com/learning/xwords.

49 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7

People confuse love with surgical reat tachment. Like love, surgical reat tachment is a wonder ful thing, especially if you’re someone who got a lit tle too frisky with the Skil saw over the weekend. But, once your thumb (and we do hope it was your thumb) is sewn back on, it’s unlikely to sulk, throw tantrums, or go on strike from opening soda cans because it longs to be (whee!) “free!” again. And there lies the essential fork in the road between reat tachment and relationships. That’s a fork you never see in the chick flicks. Chick flicks generally end with two people pledging to spend the rest of their lives together. Well, guess what? This isn’t supposed to mean every freakin’ moment. Some might call that love — that is, until they break down and star t calling around for a surgeon who operates on the conjoined. Eternal togetherness — for those whose projected eternity span ex tends beyond a 15second make-out session with Sandra Bullock or Hugh Grant, followed by a fade-to-black — is a tricky thing. The people who manage it best are those who crumple up the fantasy approach to love — “Just sit here and stare

into my eyes until we become wrinkled and dead!” — and instead give each other time alone to be boring, stupid and gross. Sometimes this leads to intricate nasal excavations or to the creation of tiny sculptures from toenail clippings. Sometimes this leads to the great American novel. And sometimes a guy just needs an hour or two to sit around the house in his boxers drinking a Bud. These same people are smar t about space issues, too ... as in, they issue their par tners plenty of space, including space to stock up on (and hang out separately with) friends the other par tner loathes. Space for one par tner to go to bed at 3 a.m., and the other, when 3year-olds do. These people understand something you and your girlfriend don’t — that successful separateness is a huge par t of successful togetherness. Note: It might be a good time to explain this concept to your girlfriend — that you aren’t looking to sit alone on the couch with your (reat tached?) thumb up your nose because you don’t want to be with her, but because you do.

How do you stop calling someone when you break up? This girl and I agreed to see other people. I still care for her and her kids immensely, and I want to know they’re doing okay. She blew off my last few phone calls. Should I just bite the bullet, and stop trying to make contact? —Disconnected There’s a fine line between coming of f like a white knight and a red wine stain on a white couch, and it looks just like a telephone wire. You want to know how she’s doing? No need to bother her ... yet again. Allow me: She’s feeling really peeved about the calls she’s getting from a guy she just broke up with. Of course, it is possible that your depar ture caused her car to spontaneously combust, her house to be eaten by giant termites, and her children to run away from home to join the circus. Feel free to believe that if it makes you feel bet ter. In the meantime, do yourself a favor, in the form of a lit tle note inked onto your dialing finger: something along the lines of, “There’s a very good chance that Madge and the kids will continue to eke out an existence on this planet without life-sustaining phone transmissions from me.” — © 2003, Amy Alkon

Got A Problem? Write Amy Alkon

171 Pier Ave., Box 280 • Santa Monica, CA 90405 or e-mail AdviceAmy@aol.com

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

am so confused! I broke up with my girlfriend of two months just this weekend, and I miss her so much. I was feeling stifled because I missed the freedom of being single — like sitting around the house in my boxers drinking a Bud and watching TV. Sounds lame, I know, but that’s what we guys enjoy. She found it disturbing for me to want to go home and have a beer or two by myself. It got to the point where I had trouble going to sleep when she was staying over, which was almost every night. At first, it seemed we had a lot in common, but I later learned that we have a lot not in common, like what time we go to sleep, and the people we choose as friends (she doesn’t like mine and I don’t like hers). Well, now I have all the time I want to sit on the couch and watch TV, but I miss her and all our good talks and games of Scrabble. I also worry about how she’s doing. She doesn’t have much money, and she’s struggling to finish college while working. I wonder if I just added more stress to her life — stress that might cause her to crash. —Flying So Low

2 0 0 3

Call us at (800) 654-3038 or visit us at www.gpb.org for more information about our programming.

TOP NOTCH CAR WASHES

Visit our newest State of the Art Evans Top Notch location.

Fast, Better Service All Brand New Equipment Just For You! Plus a Full Service Oil change facility featuring Quality Valvoline Products!

EVANS

NOW OPEN

512 North Belair Road 868-1450

MARTINEZ

3853 Washington Road • 868-1550 Next to Appliance Land

DOWNTOWN

1022 Walton Way • 722-4109 Next to Johnson Motor Co. (CLOSED SUN)

AUGUSTA MALL 3425 Wrightsboro Road 738-1300

Again this year!

OFF

ANY WASH

ANY PACKAGE WASH

Must present coupon Not valid with any other offer Expires 2/28/03

NOTCH TOP CAR WASHES

FREE

CAR WASH PLUS

$5OFF ANY FULL SERVICE OIL CHANGE EVANS LOCATION ONLY

Must present coupon Not valid with any other offer Expires 2/28/03

NOTCH TOP CAR WASHES

MASTERCARD • VISA • DISCOVER • AMERICAN EXPRESS • LOCAL CHECKS ACCEPTED HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 8:30-5:00PM • SUNDAY 12-5

M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Classifieds Business Opportunities Mary Kay products Have show for free products. Also, information available concerning employment as a consultant. Many benefits, 706-592-0155 (2/27#8004)

Employment SALON Great location! Stylist Needed with license & clientele booth rent For more info call A.J. Home: 706-793-2561 Pager: 803-441-4403 (02/27#7986)

BUY FACTORY DIRECT WOLFF TANNING BEDS Payments From $25/month FREE Color Catolog Call Today 1-800-842-1310 www.np.etstan.com (03/27#7924)

WWW.METSPIRIT.COM Health Do you have health problems? Ar thritis, diabetes, fibromyalgia or children with ADH? Give us 90 days and we will show you how to get relief and improvement. You won’t be disappointed! Call (706) 737-2254. (03/06#8012)

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)

Commercial Property FOR LEASE Over 5000 square feet, currently operated as a restaurant & lounge, come take over as is. Big parking lot. 706-792-9798 (2/27#7985)

Real Estate

Alt. Lifestyles

Is Your Future In Your Hands? It Can Be ... at AUGUSTA SCHOOL OF MASSAGE

733-2040

Call Now! Classes Start March 3rd!

Fri & Sat. No Cover Before 10 p.m. 1632 Walton Way • Augusta, GA

706-733-2603

Interest Free Payment Plans Available Financing by Key Bank (key.com) Approved for VA Education Benefits

Email: ColiseumAugusta@aol.com

MARLBORO STATION

3512 1/2 Wheeler Road • Augusta, GA 30909 Located Near Target & the Family Y

Your Party Station

Live Entertainment

Fri, Sat & Sun 18 to Party • 21 to Drink

READINGS BY

INTEGRAL YOGA Bhakti Brown, RYT

TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION *Lower Blood Pressure *Reduce Anxiety *Reduce Stress 706-860-6483 (3/06#7981)

L❤ve & Light HEALING CENTER HYPNOSIS WORKS! Stop

Smoking Lose Weight

BURY THOSE HABITS BEFORE THEY BURY YOU! Betty L ❤ve, CHT. Reiki Master 2477 Wrightsboro Rd.

733-4187 ❤ 733-8550

C A R D 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.

Address________________________________________________

341 S. Belair Rd. Open from 9 a.m. til 9 p.m. Call (706) 733-5851

Full Body Massage! Therapeutic tension relief, intense or tender touch, rela xing music, aromatherapy, by appointment only - $49.00/hr. Call Joy - 706-771-9470 or John - 803-474-1314 (02/27#7943)

Place your Classified ad today! Call 738-1142 Services

Homes For Rent South Augusta newly remodeled 4 bd, 3.5 ba, large family room, fenced yard, single car garage.Available immediately, $750 plus utilities. No pets. 706-798-0182 or 339-2997. (02/27#8013)

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)

Religion

Wheels

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

We want your dead junk or scrap car bodies. We tow away and for some we pay.

Dead Bodies Wanted

706/829-2676

Club Argos

& the Tower of Argos The Friendliest Alternative Bar in the CSRA Open Daily at 9:00

Thursday - Karaoke Night, come and entertain us Friday - Club Argos presents Spectral Erosa, Goth Night featuring DJ Tryskl, Claire Storm, Like you’ve never seen her. The Tower of Argos Leather Bar & shop is open at 9:00pm Saturday - Come celebrate Mardi Gras as we celebrate with an all male revue, #2 bud & bud lights, beads, giveaways and the Tower of Argos Leather bar (must wear leather or levis) will be celebrating as well with $1 Jello Shots and much more COMING EVENTS Beginning, March 1 - The Tower will be opening daily at 6:00pm March 29 - Great American Strip Off! Argos welcomes Gay, Bi, BDSM, Swingers & all other open minded patrons.

Call us at (706) 481-8829 email us at ClubArgos@AOL.Com 1923 Walton Way across from Ming Wah

Name___________________________________________________

MRS. GRAHAM

Classes/Private Classes (706) 556-8490 (706) 825-2113

Friday, 2/28 The Goddess of Love Venus All you can drink well liquor or draft beer for $9

Open Mon-Fri 8pm-3am Sat 8pm-2:30am

Become a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist. Ask how you can save between $250 and $500 on Tuition

THE COLISEUM

Premier Entertainment Complex & High Energy Dance Music

Drink Specials: WED Saturday, 3/1 $7 Wet N' Wild Hot Male Gabriel SAT Full Moon-Mardi Gras Party $2 Bud/Bud Light Complimentary well drinks and draft beer from 10-11pm

You can have a rewarding career in Massage Therapy in only 6 months!

INCREASE YOUR INCOME! Control Your Hours! Home-based Business! Full training. FREE Booklet. visionadream.com 888-685-8234 (02/27#8010)

Equipment

Call 738-1142 to place your Classified ad today!

Mind, Body & Spirit

SPECIAL READINGS WITH WITH CARD

706/798-9060

DOB___________Email___________________________________ $1 off Admission w/ coupon

Travel

141 Marlboro Station, Aiken • 803-644-6485

www.marlboro.4mg.net

Talk Line ***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+ (02/27#7902)

Miscellaneous For Sale Childs wood play fort with lad, slide, sandbox. Treated/GC, great for spring/summer. 706-8408635 LM. $75 OBO (05/01#8014) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bathroom/Vanity mirror 3 foot x 29 inch with chrome slides for top and bot tom. $25 OBO, 706-840-8635 LM (05/01#8014) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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)

Miscellaneous For Sale 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) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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)

51 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 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 COMPANIONSHIP DWF, 48, enjoys antiquing, travel, dining out, movies and more. Seeking DWM, 48-58, for loving, tender relationship. 732056

☎

☎ ☎

☎

☎ ☎

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 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 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

☎

MY DEMANDS ARE SIMPLE SBM, 34, seeks a relationship with a faithful and honest BF, 28-39, smoker, for an honest relationship. 949160 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 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 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 GET IN TOUCH WITH ME SM, 21, 6’3’’, athletic build, student, loves movies, clubs, church. Seeking compassionate, down-to-earth, fun woman. 861556 TRUE FRIENDSHIP Handsome SBM, 40, with a compassionate nature, seeks a S/DBF, 43-50, with the same qualities for a passionate relationship. 200917 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 IT TAKES TWO SBM, 33, Gemini, N/S, enjoys art, jazz, classical music, hiphop. Seeking SBF, 23-43, for shared interests in music, life, and happiness. 941377 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

JUST YOUR AVERAGE GUY SWM, 37, N/S, likes motorcycles, fishing, camping, farming, relaxing weekends. Seeking SWF, 25-40, to join me on life’s journey. 287476 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 WOULD YOU BE MY GIRL? Light-skinned SBM, 20, 5’8”, short/brown, likes going to movies and more. Seeking single lady, 18-30, who’d like to be my girl. 275833 ENJOY LIFE WITH ME! SM, 52, wants to meet a fun-loving woman, 35-48, who is easy to get along with, likes sports, music, and more. 282853 MY DREAM GIRL SM, 29, 5’8’’, likes basketball. Looking for a female, 25-40, who enjoys going out and having a nice time! 274284 EARLY RETIREMENT SM, 63, works part time, deep sense of spiritual conviction, loves the Bible, fellowship, life. Searching for similar woman, 45-56. 279329 LET’S FALL IN LOVE SM, 25, enjoys travel, movies, writing. Looking for a good woman, 25-42, who shares some of these interests. 281603

☎

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 MEET THE CRITERIA? SBF, 32, mother, smoker, seeks considerate male, 35-42, with capability to be understanding and sincere in a relationship. 288180 FIRST TIME AD! Employed SBF, 35, no children, wants to meet a laid-back, spontaneous man, 33-41, race unimportant, to get to know as a friend and maybe progress to more! 280007 ENVELOPING EMBRACE Kind-hearted SBCF, 52, non-smoker, enjoys dining out, attending church. Seeking loving SBCM, 52-65, with similar interests. 287845 FALL IN LOVE AGAIN SF, 46, dark complexion, cosmetologist, seeks caring, sensitive, employed man, 4656, for long walks, cuddling, and more. 284967 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, 3245. 261032 SEEKING DEDICATED PERSON SWF, late-30s, blonde/blue, is dedicated and looking for the same in a man, for friendship first, possibly more. 251283 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 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

F E B

☎

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!

2 7 2 0 0 3

To become a member, call 1-888-223-7044 To listen and respond to ads, call 1-900-226-8908

S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Calls cost $1.99 per min., Must be 18+.

,call 1-866-832-4685

To respond to ads using a 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 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 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 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 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 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, clean-cut lifestyle. Seeking a petite, active woman, 1830, 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... 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 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 LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIP Senior SWM seeks sincere, honest SWM, 25-45, to share home and lifestyle. Many interests including gardening, cooking, arts and crafts, travel, camping. 294303 NICE PERSONALITY A MUST SM, 29, 5’7’’, moustache and goatee, seeks down-to-earth, nice, masculine, real man, 27-30, for friends, possible LTR. 280741 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 ENJOYS ALL THAT LIFE HAS GWM, 40, shaved head, goatee, Pisces, smoker, seeks very special, attractive, strong, fun-loving GBM, 30-50, for dating, possible LTR. 257126 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 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 100% LAID-BACK SBM, 35, 5’11”, brown skin, dark brown eyes, Virgo, smoker, bookworm, loves tv. Seeking masculine, spontaneous BM, 30-45, smoker. 958192 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

☎

SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP Attractive, feminine SWF, 41, 5’4”, seeks a very open-minded WF, 35-48, for fun and exciting times. 775074

☎

AVID READER Quiet SF, 24, part-time student, into all types of music, especially oldies, pets, writing poetry. Seeking a female, 24-40, with same interests. 283861

☎

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 open-minded, passionate, understanding GBF, 23-45, for LTR. 941850

☎

YOUNG AT HEART Active GWF, 62, 5’5”, 122lbs, brown hair, enjoys camping, fishing, meeting new people, dining out, short trips. Seeking plussized GWF, 45-65, for friendship first. No games. 292839

☎

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

CHURCH-GOER SBF, 38, Virgo, N/S, heavy-duty equipment operator, seeks BF, 30-45. Enjoys motorcycle riding, playing bass guitar. 799776

☎

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 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 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

☎

M E T R O

much more than just a great way to meet people.

☎

to respond using your credit card, call

1-866-832-4685 Calls cost $1.99 per minute. Must be 18+

☎

How do you

Phone

Text Messages

E-Mail

Choose any phone number, home, office or your cellular phone!

Text message sent on your digital pager or on your cell phone.

Give us your e-mail address and we’ll do the rest.

want us to contact you?

Respond to ads on this page by calling 1-900-226-8908.

■ Automotive Spirit

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

Free Automotive Ads

F E B 2 7

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) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1985 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Z-51, PW, PL, PS, targa top, 4+3 trans, leather. Bose, $9000 OBO, call 803-278-2669, leave a message (936/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1986 PONTIAC 6000, auto, runs great, 86K, V6, dependable transportation, $1200 OBO, 706-6501971 day or night (898/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1987 BMW 525i, grey, auto, power everything, CD, nice, 195K, just needs driveshaft, $1400, 706855-1639 (1005/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1988 CHEVY CAVALIER Z-24, convertible, needs top, clutch, shifter cable, $800 firm, will trade for boat, trailer and motor. 706790-3425 (988/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 HONDA CIVIC, 2dr, 5spd, 123K, $1500 firm, 803-279-2935 (976/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1989 PONTIAC GRAND Prix SE, white, 5spd, alloy wheels, looks & runs good, good dependable car, $1800 OBO, Good for the Money, 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) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1991 CHEVY CAMERO RS, convertible, 305 V8, auto, power

group, never wrecked, very good over all condition, many new parts, 706-495-1765 (992/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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, green, gray interior, 25th Anniversary Edition, 305, auto, ttops, excellent condition, 120K, $6000 firm, 706-339-4531 (811/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1992 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE, auto, AC, 35+ mpg, 92K, one owner, very clean, $1650 OBO, 706-736-1035 (990/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 HONDA ACCORD DX, 5spd, 132K, new tires, $2650, 803-279-2935 (977/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1993 MERCURY CAPRI, green, black convertible roof, 145K, new tires & timing belt, frequently maintained, fun car, $2400, 706-2947529 (950/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1994 BUICK PARK Ave, green, camel interior, all power, 4dr, V6, low miles, good condition, $5000 OBO, 706-796-9421 or 706-5891969 (980/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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, 706722-0665 (816/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 DODGE NEON, white, 5spd, AC, CD, new battery, 97K, runs good, $1600 OBO, 706-7290789 (987/0403)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 FORD CROWN Victoria LX, dark green, all power options, extra clean, excellent condition, Michelins, 69K, $5500, 706-7338971 (982/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 CHEVROLET CAMERO, 41K, factory purple, 5spd, 6 cyl, AC, FM, cass, immaculate, one owner, $6500 OBO, 706-8680090 (975/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 706267-6350 (932/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 (993/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 DODGE NEON, auto, air, stereo/cassette, looks and runs good, 37K, Best Offer, 706-3649431 (897/0227)

the power of dreams

NES GERALD JO HONDA –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE GS, 116K, loaded, AC, power, multi CD player, 5spd, manual sunroof, extras, $7000, 706-231-7691 (978/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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)

2003 Gordon Highway, Augusta 706.733.2210 www.geraldjoneshonda.com

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 ACURA INTEGRA GSR, white, excellent condition, all power, many extras, 66K, warranty $15,500 OBO, 706-284-9693 (812/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 HONDA ACCORD LX, super saver (15345A), $8995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-7332210 (1013) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 HONDA CIVIC LX, gas saver (6991A), $8995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (1012) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 MAZDA 626 LX, tan, sedan, 4dr, 54K, sunroof, loaded, excellent condition, $7900, 706-7740404 (M-T-TH-F, 9-5) or after 5pm 706-738-5154 (904/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 HONDA ACCORD EX, lots of miles left, (15252A), $10,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-

2210 (1009) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 HONDA CIVIC DX, low payment (7230), $8995, Honda Certified, APR 4.9%, 12mo, 12,000 mile bumper to bumper extension & 7yr/100,000 mile warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706733-2210 (1015) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 HONDA CIVIC LX, low miles (7394), $10,995, Honda Certified, APR 4.9%, 12mo, 12,000 mile bumper to bumper extension & 7yr/100,000 mile warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706733-2210 (1016)

continued on page 54

CHECK US OUT ONLINE WWW.METSPIRIT.COM

2 0 0 3

54 M E T R O S P I R I T F E B 2 7 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 53 1999 HONDA CIVIC LX, mileage miser, (7176), $12,995, Honda Certified, APR 4.9%, 12mo, 12,000 mile bumper to bumper extension & 7yr/100,000 mile warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706733-2210 (1010) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 LINCOLN TOWN Car, executive series, call for details, won’t last long, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (996) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999-01 MAZDA MILLENIA’S, starting $10,988, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (998) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999-02 MAZDA 626’S, starting $9800, must see, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (1003) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 MAZDA PROTEGE, silver, tint windows, new motor, CD, AC, PW, PL, PS, $5500, 706-2316901 or 706-729-0104 (945/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM, bright red, auto, loaded, 87K, cold air, electric seats, etc, 6cyl, clean, best offer, 706-364-9431 (899/0227) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 BMW 323ci, titanium silver bullet, sports package, 5spd, Xenon Z-Rated tires w/7yr/100,000 BMW transferable warranty, 43.5K, $23,500, 706495-2731 (906/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 HONDA ACCORD EX, ride in style, (15300A), $17,995, Honda Certified, APR 4.9%, 12mo, 12,000 mile bumper to bumper extension & 7yr/100,000 mile warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (1011) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 HONDA CIVIC EX, white, why buy new, (7217), $13,995, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-7332210 (1014) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 NISSAN MAXIMA, like new, $15,900, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (1002) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 HONDA ACCORD EX, white, 2dr, coupe, (14494B), $18,995, Honda Certified, APR 4.9%, 12mo, 12,000 mile bumper to bumper extension & 7yr/100,000 mile warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706-733-2210 (1008) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 CHEVY CAMARO Z-28, black on black, only 11 miles on car, 6spd, Monsoon stereo/CD, AC, PS, PB, Goodyear GS-C tires $23,300, 706-560-9971 (944/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 HYUNDIA ELANTRA, perfect condition, we just need someone to take over payments or make an offer, call anytime! 706-267-9248 (1006/0403)

Motorcycles 1998 HARLEY DYNA Super glide, laser red, 5400 miles, sissy bar, highway pegs, excellent condition, $11,000 OBO after 6 pm, 803-279-9494(981/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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, bright

red, enduro, off road only, XC, this bike is a thrill to ride, the power is awesome, with racing graphics, long range fuel tank, and much more, price negotiable, will even consider trade of comparable worth, 706-309-9526 after 6 pm (458/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 BUELL BLAST, 246 miles, garage kept, $3500, 481-9336 ask for Sandy (991/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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 1987 EAGLE SPEED Boat, 60 mph, closed bow, Johnson 140HP outboard, $2500 OBO or trade for 4 wheeler, 803-279-2669 (934/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1989 RENKEN CABIN Cruiser, 26ft, sleeps six if you’re friendly, four otherwise, full galley, head and shower, 75 hours on 460 Cobra/outdrive, outstanding condition, $22,500, 706-733-8971 (984/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998 COLEMAN POPUP, king beds, refrig, AC, awning, dinette, toilet, hot water, outside shower, brakes, 16’7” closed, 27’ open, $3500 firm, 706-790-3425 (989/0403)

SUVs 1992 FORD BRONCO XLT, Nite, needs transmission work, $4000 OBO, call 706-738-8311 (926/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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, 706737-6100 (927/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1997 JEEP WRANGLER, sport package, 4X4, auto, air, low miles, $250/mo, WAC, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (997) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998-99 FORD EXPEDITION’S, great selection, starting $16,900, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-2020002 (1000) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999-01 FORD EXPLORER’S, starting $8995, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (999) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 ISUZU TROOPER, 4X4, loaded to the hilt, $13,988, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (994) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1998-2001 ISUZU RODEO’S, loaded, clean, must see, starting $12,500, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (1001) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1999 LEXUS RX300, black/grey

leather, 16K, luxury package, excellent condition, one owner, 2WD, $29,600 OBO, 706-3736178 after 7pm (908/0306) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 JEEP CHEROKEE Limited, 6 cyl, 4X4, leather, all power, 69K road miles, perfect condition, $13,500, 706-733-8971 (983/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 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) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2002 HONDA ODYSSEY LX, like new (15904A), $21,995, Honda Certified, APR 4.9%, 12mo, 12,000 mile bumper to bumper extension & 7yr/100,000 mile warranty, Gerald Jones Honda, 706733-2210 (1017)

Trucks 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) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1993 MITSUBISHI MIGHTY Max, blue, great hunting truck, AC, CD, $2500, 706-495-4243 (986/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1994 GMC 1500, pickup, extended cab, excellent condition, it’s a beauty, $6600 OBO, 706-8698888 (937/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 DODGE DAKOTA Extended cab, 2WD, auto, call for further details after 6 pm, 706-729-1677 (979/0327) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1995 GMC SIERRA, white/burgundy, x-cab, 4X4, 65k, loaded, must sell $11,000, 706-863-1543 (1007/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1996 FORD RANGER XLT, white, extended cab, V6, am/fm/cassette, adult driven, power mirrors, great condition, $4200, 803-2780654 (943/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2001 FORD RANGER, 4X4, low miles, local trade, factory warranty, $330/mo, WAC, Andy Jones Mazda, 803-202-0002 (995)

Vans 1969 FORD ECONOLINE 100, straight 6, 3spd, $500 OBO, 706823-9644 (941/0313) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1992 TOYOTA PREVIA LE, dual sunroof, AC, PS, Am, Fm stereo, alloy wheels, dealer serviced, $4895, 706-650-2196 (955/0320) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 1994 DODGE GRAND Caravan SE, dark green, power everything, rear & front AC, Quad seating, 175K, $3000, 706-869-1920 (1001/0403) –––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2000 FORD WINDSTAR SEL, white, grey leather, loaded, CD, factory warranty, 21K, $15,700, 706-294-1040 (951/0313)

SAVE

BIG WITH 0%

M E T R O

AT GERALD JONES SUBARU

2003 WRX, High Performance Sports Sedan

$21,995 with 0% financing! only

2003 Subaru Outback, only

$21,495 with 0% financing!

GERALD JONES

1801 Gordon Highway

738-2561

BAJA

way to meet other single people in your area. Here's the best part, it's FREE to join. Thousands of single adults have used our system to meet new

WRX

$20,995 with 0% financing!

cost-effective, and safe

friends or develop lasting romantic relationships as a result of

OUTBACK

A HOT New 2003 Subaru Baja only

is an easy, fun,

placing and/or answering personal ads.

Come see the all new Subarus Now at Gerald Jones Subaru 1801 Gordon Highway ... Where you get a great deal and a great deal more.

animal animal attraction attraction Placing Your Personal Ad Is Fast, Safe and Easy - Call 1-800-743-2873

Become A Member Online Today!

www.metspirit.com

C O M E A N D S E E T H E O N E S T H AT C A N G E T Y O U D O N E ! 3233 WASHINGTON ROAD AUGUSTA, GA • 888-694-5555 2001 PONTIAC GRAND AM STK#7320A

$10,987 2002 FORD MUSTANGS

ISUZU TROOPER

$13,988

MUST SEE!

FORD RANGER

$330/mo.

WON’T LAST!

Low Miles • Local Trade • Factory Warranty

Loaded To The Hilt!

LINCOLN TOWN CAR

Executive Series Call for details, won’t last long!

1999

2001

1999

TWO TO CHOOSE FROM

$12,732

2000 CHEVY CAMARO SS STK#7329A

$17,632 2001 CHEVY LUMINA STK#7315A

$10,837 2002 DODGE INTREPID SE STK#7319A

$13,428 2001 HYUNDAI ACCENT STK#9093B

$6,998 2000 FORD FOCUS STK#7282A

JEEP WRANGLER

$250/mo.

WOW!

Sport Package 4x4 • Auto • Air • Low Miles

1997

GMC SONOMA

FORD RANGER SPORT TRAK

$14,350

VERY SHARP!

AT • CD • Full Power • Extra Clean

$268/mo.

3rd Door • Low Miles • Very Clean

2001

ANDY JONES MAZDA ISUZU

WON’T LAST!

(803) 202-0002

www.andyjonesmazda.com Open Monday-Friday 9am-8pm, Saturday 9am-7pm At the top of the rise on the Aiken-Augusta Highway in North Augusta

$9,512 2002 DODGE NEON STK#7218A

$10,681 2002 TOYOTA COROLLA STK#7257A

$11,811 2002 HYUNDAI SANTA FE TWO TO CHOOSE FROM

$16,992

S P I R I T F E B 2 7 2 0 0 3

Hyundai is Happening! SAVE THOUSANDS DURING OUR GRAND OPENING SALES EVENT! 2003 Elantra

2002 ACCENTS

MSRP $13,132

GRAND OPENING SALE PRICE

Close Out!

$10,990 MSRP $9,554

5 speed, A/C, PW, PL, PM, Cassette, Front & Side Airbags Stock#9087

GRAND OPENING SALES PRICE

7,990

from

2003 XG 350L

plus tax, tag and fees

MSRP $26,318

GRAND OPENING SALE PRICE

Hatchback, Remote Mirrors, 5 Speed, AM/FM Cassette

$21,995

Stock#8832

CD, PW, PM, PL, Cruise, Front & Side Airbags

2003 SANTE FE

Stock#8991

t SUV Rated Bes s in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clas

2003 Sonota MSRP $16,155

MSRP $18,229

GRAND OPENING SALES PRICE

from

16,990

GRAND OPENING SALE PRICE

$14,995 CD, PW, PM, PL, Cruise, Front & Side Airbags

Stock#9042

plus tax, tag and fees

Front Side Airbags, Remote Mirrors, A/C, CD, PM, PL Stock#9038

Taylor Hyundai

Rated #1

across the board

#1 Safety

Come See for Yourself Why Hyundais are so HOT! All prices plus tax, tag, fees; 0% APF short term financing WAC on select new cars. All prices include rebate to dealer

Warranty Value

Hyundai Breaks All Time Sales Records! Leading Consumer Report Magazine puts Hyundai on its Recommended Buy List!

HYUNDAI ADVANTAGE

10 Year 100,000 Miles Power train Protection 5 Year 60,000 Mile Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage 5 Year Unlimited Miles 24-HR Roadside Assistance See Dealer for Details

HYUNDAI 3233 Washington Road

706-868-1200 Toll Free 888-664-8692 www.taylorhyundai.com Hours: Mon-Fri 9-7:30, Sat 9-6