Connect Magazine - May 2017

May 2017

SHS Vaudeville Show

Summer Arts Camps

Splash in the Boro

Spring Showcases at the Averitt

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Table of Contents

Editorial for May

mirth & Matter Editor’s letter

Calendar of Events ���������������������������������������������������������������� 4 Dining Guide ������������������������������������������������������������������������ 5 Vaudeville ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 6 Summer Camps �������������������������������������������������������������������� 8 Splash in the Boro ��������������������������������������������������������� 10-11 The Music Scene ����������������������������������������������������������������� 12 Connect Crime ������������������������������������������������������������������� 13 Showcases ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 14 The Arts Seen �������������������������������������������������������������������� 16 Vampin’ Gamer / Horoscope ����������������������������������������������� 21 Overthinking It ������������������������������������������������������������������� 22 Tailgate Tattler ������������������������������������������������������������� 24-25 Day Trippin’ ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 26 Classifieds ������������������������������������������������������������������� 28-29

Behind the Scenes People who make it happen

Angye Morrison, EDITOR 912.489.9402 | amorrison@connectstatesboromagazine.com Hunter McCUMBER, ART DIRECTOR 912.489.9491 | hmccumber@statesboromagazine.com Stephanie Childs, MARKETING MANAGER 912.531.0786 | schilds@connectstatesboromagazine.com Pam pollard, classifieds manager 912.489.9420 | ppollard@connectstatesboromagazine.com Tim Webb, Multimedia twebb@statesboroherald.com Darrell Elliot, Distribution 912.489.9425 | delliot@statesboroherald.com Jim Healy, Operations manager 912.489.9402 | jhealy@statesboroherald.com

Angye Morrison Connect Editor

There’s a lot going on the Boro this month in the arts world – and a lot of it is being done by young people.

First off, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is being performed at the Averitt, with opening night on May 4. The Youth Ballet and the Statesboro Chamber Orchestra and Youth Strings will also present their spring showcases, on May 20 and May 13, respectively.

Then there’s the annual tradition of a night of vaudeville-style entertainment at Statesboro High School.

You won’t want to miss this year’s show, scheduled for May 20. For only $5, it’s a real value and a night of fantastic fun, and we have a story on the show.

In this issue, we’ve also included a feature on Splash in the Boro, which has added new features for the new season that we know you will love. Be sure to check out the article on this great part of our community.

We’re also featuring a story on area summer camps for art, theater and music. Parents, be sure to give it a read to help you determine where your children can spend some quality time this summer.

Curious about the local music scene? Look no further. We’ve got the scoop here.

We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we’ve been enjoying the great spring weather. It’s the perfect time of year to get out and enjoy all the great entertainment and fun activities in our area. And don’t forget, we’d love to publish your photos as you’re out enjoying all this great stuff – just send them to me at amorrison@connectstatesboromagazine.com, and be sure to include names and the location/event information.

Happy reading!

Connect Magazine is published monthly (12 issues a year). The cover and contents of Connect Magazine are fully protected by copyright laws of the United States and may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Connect Magazine. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited inquiries, manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials.

Such materials will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. Address letters and editorial contributions to Connect Statesboro, Angye Morrison, 1 Proctor Street, Statesboro, GA 30458, amorrison@connectstatesboromagazine.com. Copyright © 2017 by Statesboro Publishing Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

May 2017 • 3

ART

Calendar OTHER

Friday, May 5 F1RST Friday: Fiesta del Mayo 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Live performances by jazz bands and other local artists, and food and business vendors as well.

Friday, May 5 Georgia Southern graduate commencement at Hanner Fieldhouse, 1 p.m.

Saturday, May 6 Georgia Southern undergraduate commencement at Paulson Stadium, 9 a.m.

Spring Classes at Averitt Center for the Arts Finger Painting Poetry: For ages 9-12 years, the class is held at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, and taught by

Claire Nelson. Weird Science: For ages 14-17 years, the class is for writing poetry and prose about the things that inspire in the natural, weird world around us.

Instructor is Christina Olson. Tuition for either class is $44 per month ($54 for non-members). Call (912) 212-2787 or go online at www. averittcenterforthearts.org for more information.

Through Jan. 28, 2018 The World’s War is Georgia’s War: 1917-1919 Georgia Southern Museum Commemorate the 100th anniversary of the U.S. involvement in the first World War through the experience of Georgia. Stories of Georgia’s soldiers, civilians, training camps and communities.

MUSIC

Tuesday, May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Open mic night at Loco’s, 9 pm.

Tuesday, May 2, 9, 16,23, 30 Karaoke at Applebee’s, 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 DJ & Karaoke at Gnat’s Landing, 9 p.m.

Friday, May 5 Collin Middleton at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m.

Friday, May 5 Roshambeaux at South City Tavern, 10 p.m.

Saturday, May 6 The Other Bragg at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m.

Additional performance Sunday at 12:30 a.m.

Thursday, May 11 Tyler Branch Duo at Millhouse, 9 p.m.

Frida, May 12 The Southpaw Band at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 13 Riley Lowery Duo at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 18 Dr. J at Millhouse, 9 p.m.

4 • Connect Magazine

Friday, May 19 Bragg & Co. at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 20 James Lavine at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m., with additional performance Sunday at 12:30 a.m.

Sunday, May 21 Pladd Dot School of Rock and Roll Presents: License to Rock Averitt Center for the Arts Live performances, beginning at 6 p.m., by Savage Cabbage, Prone to Change, The Roman Empire and New Beginnings. Tickets are $5 and all proceeds will go toward the Pladd Dot School of Rock and Roll program.

Thursday, May 25 Kyle Turner at Millhouse, 9 p.m.

Friday, May 26 Ambiguous at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 26 Squawk Box at Millhouse, 9:30 p.m., with additional performance Sunday at 12:30 a.m.

Ongoing Live music at Loco’s Musical acts perform each weekend, 9-11:30 p.m.

Through the Window: Landscapes by Terry Moeller Averitt Center for the Arts Moeller is a landscape artist working in oils, pastels, watercolor, mixed media and photography. The exhibit will be in place through July 1.

Friday, May 5 Averitt Center for the Arts Melanie Miller Stokes exhibit begins with an opening reception at 5:30 p.m. on May 5 in the Legends Gallery, located on the second floor of the Averitt.

Wednesday, May 17 Kids Art Night, Statesboro Bulloch County Library Elementary and middle school students can come to the library at 5:30 p.m. to spend a little time being creative. No sign up is required, but be prepared to get messy.

May 5-31 Youth Gallery, Averitt Center for the Arts The Youth Gallery features the

artwork of Bulloch County students.

Each month new schools are featured, and Charter Conservatory and Bulloch Academy are featured in May. The new exhibits are celebrated with a reception in the third floor gallery on the first Friday of each month.

Ongoing Give it a Spin! Workshop, 3rd Sunday each month Averitt Center for the Arts For those 16 years of age and up, from 1-4 p.m., this pottery class for beginners covers the basics. Bring a towel with you; all other materials provided. Cost is $25 ($40 for nonmembers).

Paint-N-Party, 2nd Friday each month Averitt Center for the Arts Come and have fun with your friends and your favorite drink (21+ to drink). Price includes a 16X20 canvas and art supplies. Call Tony Phillips at (912) 212-2787 to register. Cost is $35 per session.

Theater Thursday, May 4 “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” Averitt Center for the Arts Prepare to enter through the wardrobe and take a trip to Narnia as this story of love, faith, courage and giving comes to life on the Averitt stage, performed by the Statesboro Youth Theater.

Performances begin at 7 p.m. May 4, 5 and 6. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for youth. Call (912) 212-2787 or go online at www. averittcenterforthearts.org to purchase tickets.

Thursday, May 11 “Cinderella” Averitt Center for the Arts The Atlanta Opera Studio Tour brings live opera to the stage from 10 a.m. to noon, for local students, and features fully-staged, abbreviated versions of the mainstage production.

Saturday, May 13 Statesboro Chamber Orchestra/ Youth Strings Averitt Center for the Arts Join these talented young people, coupled with the Statesboro Chamber Orchestra, as they present their annual showcase. Tickets are

$10 for adults, $5 for youth. Call (912) 212-2787 or go online at www.averittcenterforthearts.org to purchase tickets.

Saturday, May 20 Statesboro Youth Ballet: Youth Ballet Spring Showcase Averitt Center for the Arts Join these talented young people as they present their annual showcase.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for youth. Call (912) 212-2787 or go online at www.averittcenterforthearts. org to purchase tickets.

Saturday, May 20, “Vaudeville” Statesboro High School Join the students of Statesboro High as they present a student variety show in conjunction with the SHS’ spring art show. Every student involved with drama, visual arts and music will be performing or have works on display.

The Vaudeville performance will be held at the SHS auditorium at 7 p.m. on May 20.

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Monday Pint Night: $2 pints (all draft beers), trivia at 8:30 p.m.

Tuesday: $3.99 Titos, $3.99 Jim Beam Wine & Whisky Wednesday: $10 off any bottle of wine, $4.99 Crown Thirsty Thursday: $3.99 Titos, $3.99 Jim Beam Friday, Saturday & Sunday: $10 domestic buckets, $15 import buckets

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May 2017 • 5

Vaudeville

By Angye Morrison

Curtain goes up on Vaudeville show at SHS May 20 It’s tradition. It’s comedy. It’s music and dancing. It’s a good time.

It’s the annual Vaudeville show at Statesboro High School, set to hit the stage on May 20 at 7 p.m.

According to Drama teacher Eddie Frazier, this is the 18th year the show has been done “It’s the biggest show we do every year.

There’s singing, there’s dancing, there’s comedy sketches,” he said. “It’s always a well-attended show.”

Last year, around 100 students participated, and Frazier says this year is about the same. Vaudeville is the only show open to the entire school for auditions; all the other productions require that student actors be members of Frazier’s acting classes.

The show will be emceed by seniors who have been under Frazier’s instruction for quite some time. He says they do “bits” between acts, and they are in charge.

“I kind of turn it over to them. This is their show. I’m more the director and there to help them and advise them and say no.

They kind of run it themselves,” he said.

As for the content, Frazier says this show has it all. Some of the sketches are written by the students, and others are drawn from shows that Frazier has encouraged them to watch: Saturday Night Live, The Carol Burnett Show, The Dean Martin Variety Show and the old Burns and Allen show.

He encourages students to give these shows a look-see because it not only encourages their creativity, but it helps them gauge what’s good and what’s not.

“I like them to see things that, when they see them, they realize how good it is, and they want to do stuff like that. So I encour6 • Connect Magazine

age them to go back and look at some of the really, really good examples of sketch comedy,” he said.

He encourages students to push the envelope, saying it’s good for the audience and “keeps them awake.” But he still maintains veto power.

In addition to the comedy sketches, there will be singing and dancing. Julie Mitchell, Chorus teacher at SHS, has been working with singers and musicians in the show, while Lee Collins, Band teacher, has been working on assembling the house band.

The show features all live music – no tracks.

The house band will be led by Mark Murphree on keyboard and piano. Murphree leads the contemporary worship at Pittman Park United Methodist Church, and coordinates the music for the show.

In addition to the performances, student art work will be on display in the lobby area, coordinated by Visual Arts teacher and SHS alumna Hayley Bond. The artists on display have been under her instruction during this semester.

Most of the students involved in the show are already involved in the Fine Arts program at SHS, but about 20 to 25 percent are not, Frazier said. He said that overall, there are a lot of students involved in the program.

“I teach 208 students a day. Mr. Collins teaches even more. I have one class with 44, he’s got one class with, I think, between 65 and 80. So we’ve got a lot of kids down here,” he said.

Frazier is keeping mum about a lot of the acts, preferring to keep them secret until the curtain goes up. He did say that several faculty members will be performing, including

Bond. Frazier will also be performing with a student, a yearly tradition.

Bringing alumni back is something that Frazier loves doing.

“During year 10 and 15, we brought alumni back, and in our 20th year, we’ll do it then as well. I like to have alumni come back and work with my current students, which is always a lot of fun,” he said.

When asked what his favorite show is, Frazier has a hard time deciding. But he did say that the shows in the last three years have been particularly memorable, mostly due to great emcees.

“The last three have been great because I have had emcees who really, really worked their hindquarters off to make it work,” he said.

Frazier also said that the other Fine Arts Department members are key to the show’s success, in addition to the department’s “honorary” member, Shannon Anderson, SHS media specialist, who creates posters and T-shirts for every show the Drama department does.

“She has to stay here until I retire because I can’t do without her. She’s absolutely wonderful,” he said.

Frazier said the audience can expect the show to last just under two hours. When asked what the show means to the school and to the community, he says it’s just “expected.”

“Everybody looks forward to it every year. You mention Vaudeville, and the kids know. They know what it is. The administrators enjoy coming. We always have a good turnout. Everybody enjoys it,” he said.

Tickets will be available at the door on the night of the show and will cost $5.

Make the most of summer in your own backyard Isn’t it great to kick back at home? In truth, you don’t have to look beyond your own backyard to have the time of your life this summer!

The pleasures of outdoor living This summer, embrace the outdoor lifestyle! With a bit of planning, your deck can become an extension of your home.

Goodbye, splintery picnic table — hello, fully equipped kitchen! Workstations, drawers, fridge, sink and other accessories team up with your barbecue to afford you all the

comforts of home outdoors in the glorious sunshine.

And that’s not all! You could also set up an outdoor bar or home theater, or install a heating system to stretch the good times well into the cool evenings of fall. And don’t forget custom lighting to create the perfect atmosphere for every occasion, be it a barbecue with friends or a romantic dinner.

The joys of making a splash Can you think of a better way to get through a heat wave, enjoy time with

friends or stay in shape this summer than with a pool? Or maybe you’d rather relax in a hot tub with your favorite beverage in hand? You could even go all out and get the best of both worlds with a swim spa! Let’s face it — it’s hard to beat the fun factor of a pool or hot tub. Now’s the time to go all in on summer in your own backyard!

Modern camping trips: there’s something for everyone What comes to mind when you hear the word “camping”? A blissful tenting experience in the middle of nowhere? A relaxed family trip spent in a cozy but cramped camper, or a nightmarish vision of being devoured by bloodthirsty mosquitoes? However you picture camping in your mind’s eye, know that the activity has evolved radically over the years and now offers something for everyone. Yes, everyone!

Today’s options go well beyond traditional camper and tent campsites. Want

some examples? Yurts, tree houses, tepees, cottages, luxury trailers, cabins and readyto-camp sites are just a few of the camping options available for the modern camper.

What’s more, you get to choose between solitude and friendly neighbours; dense forests and lush fields; a lake in the middle of nowhere and all the services you could ever desire (pool, tennis courts, bike and boat rental, laundromat, snack bar, etc.). What’s not to like?

So, what’s your heart’s desire? To get

back to basics and commune with nature, or to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort? Whatever your preference, you’ll find a nature stay to satisfy your tastes.

Between the most rustic camping (without services) and glamping (luxury camping) with all the comforts of home (wood floors, cozy beds, espresso machine and toaster), there is something for everyone. Do a little research, and you’ll be enjoying a memorable camping vacation that completely suits your unique tastes before you know it!

May 2017 • 7

Summer camps

By Rashida Otunba

Summer camps offer variety of activities for local children

School is almost over and with summer’s long-awaited arrival comes new opportunities to pick up a new hobby or simply hone pre-existing talents. For those students who are looking for a more arts-centered summer camp experience, check out these local opportunities.

Painting with the Masters May 29-June 2 at Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts This camp is for individuals ages 9 and up, and lasts from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

As an activity, campers will be asked to turn an old piece of furniture into a work of art, so they must bring a chair or small piece of furniture. Both children and adults welcome.

Cost is $125 for members, $150 for nonmembers, plus a $20 supply fee.

Youth Musical Theater Camp June 5-9 at Whitaker Black Box Theater Campers, ages 10 and up, will have the opportunity at this camp to learn the basics of musical theater. The camp will cover staging, character development, dance, improvisation and music. Camp will include a variety show at the end of the week, on June 9 at 6 p.m. The cost is $75.

Advanced Drawing and Painting for Elementary June 12-16 at the Averitt Center for the Arts Fine tune your drawing and painting skills, and explore pencil modeling techniques to add shading and depth to your work. You can also learn acrylic painting techniques on canvas. The camp is for ages 5 to 11, and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, and costs $125.

8 • Connect Magazine

Magical Fairytale Theater June 12-16 at the Whitaker Black Box Theater Students ages 4 to 10 will meet each day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to learn all about fantasy, imagination and play. The group will create an adaptation of a fairytale story, which they will perform on the last day of camp, June 16, at 3 p.m. Cost for the camp is $125.

Camp TEAM (Tormenta, Education, Art and Music) June 12-16 at the Averitt Center for the Arts This camp is an opportunity for campers to experience art, music and soccer, all in one afternoon. The camp, which is for students ages four and five, includes a music class, soccer fun and a visual arts class, and will meet from noon to 3 p.m. Cost is $75.

Color & Creativity June 19-23 at Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts For ages 7 to 14. The camp lasts from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Here, campers will exercise their creativity and learn how to use different art mediums to create art projects. The camp is located at the 2-D classroom at the Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts. The camp costs $125.

Page to Stage June 29-30 at the Whitaker Black Box Theater You may be able to act, but can you write, cast, costume and direct? Attend this camp and learn to make your idea go from page to stage. This camp, which costs $75, may have a performance on June 30.

Magic of Ballet July 10-14 at the Grande Ballet Studio at the Center for Performing Arts Students ages 7 to 11 will meet from 9 a.m. to noon each day to participate in a daily ballet class, learn about other dance styles and witness the beauty and magic of classical ballet. A showcase will be held on the last day for parents. The cost is $75.

Dance All Day July 17-21 and July 24-28 at the Grande Ballet Studio at the Center for Performing Arts For ages 12 to 16, this camp is for those who are ready to build on their technique and grow as dancers. Students must have at least two years of experience in ballet.

The cost is $125.

Find Your Wild Side With Words July 19-23 Legends Gallery at the Averitt Center for the Arts Students ages 13 to 17 will meet each day from 1 to 4 p.m. to focus on the elements of contemporary poetry writing, including imagery and description, voice and tone, figurative language and the music of the poetic line. The cost for the camp is $75.

For a complete list of camps, more information or to register, go online at www.averittcenterforthearts.org.

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May 2017 • 9

Splash in the Boro

By Angye Morrison Photos by Scott Bryant

Grab your board

Splash in the Boro ready to unveil new attraction Everything is on track for the May 20 opening of Splash in the Boro, according to Mike Rollins, director of the Statesboro Bulloch County Parks and Recreation Department.

“If the weather stays good and all the stars are aligned, I think we’ll be successful. If we’re not, I think we’ll be very close,” he said.

That’s good news for locals, and for people from the surrounding area as well.

The attraction, located at Mill Creek Regional Park, 1388 Highway 24 East in Statesboro, has been undergoing a $5.7 million expansion. Included in that is a 19, 500-square-footwave pool, designed for people of all ages.

The front entrance has also been redesigned, and the entry road rerouted, in addition to new concessions and restroom areas. A new winter bathhouse will provide needed additional space.

The wave pool is the largest portion of the expansion project, totaling around $4.3 million. Rollins said it will increase the capacity of the park by about 30 percent.

“It will allow us to bring a lot more people into the park, especially on Saturday, which is our peak day,” he added. The new features in this phase of expansion will also add about 70 new part-time jobs.

The park also features attractions for people of all ages such as the lazy river, water slides,

10 • Connect Magazine

pools, a snack shack and a sandwich shop.

The redesign of the entrance was crucial, Rollins said. The previous modification of that area of the park was in 2008-2009, when a new ticket area was added.

“But we were still very compact in there because of the roadway, so we chose as part of this phase of construction to redo that front roadway, and create more area in the front of the facility,” he said.

On heavy days, that area becomes very congested, with spillover close to the roadway, which is a potentially dangerous situation.

“We felt like it was important to spend some of our resources on redoing that front entry,” Rollins said. He added that a large transformer in that area had to be moved as part of that process, and although it was expensive, it was worth it for the safety of park patrons.

Over the years, as the park has expanded, so has the need for more staff. Splash employs about 200 lifeguards annually, Rollins said, and the staff had nowhere to go during a shift change. They had used a tent at one time.

The expansion at the dome/bathhouse will provide the needed space. “(A tent) works for a little while, but sometimes you have people who need to get in out of the sun, and even with our patrons,

we didn’t have a great place to do first aid.

This addition will give us a place to do indoor birthday parties during the winter months, and even during the summer. Also, staff training, training them on software systems, getting them certified and trained to do lifesaving. It requires a lot of time and energy and a location. If you don’t have an indoor location, you’re in trouble,” he said.

Splash is open about 70 to 75 hours a week during the season, which runs from the weekend before Memorial Day through the first week of August, and then just on weekends through the Labor Day weekend.

This year there will be an increase in the price of admission, Rollins said. Prices are as follows: regular admission for those over 48 inches tall, $18.99; under 48 inches, $13.99.

The cost for discounted tickets is $13.99 for those taller than 48 inches, $10.99 under.

Discounts are available to Bulloch County residents, active military and Georgia Southern University or Ogeechee Technical College students or staff. Children 2 years old and younger get in free. Group and corporate rates are available, as well as season passes.

Rollins said they have worked to keep ticket prices as low as possible.

“We’ve always wanted to provide and maintain a facility that has family appeal that

Destiny Mauldin, 21, Evan Rogers and son

of Statesboro, left, is

Sean, 4, bottom right,

surprised by water falling

ride the Lazy River with

from a bucket overhead

wife and mom Crystal.

while taking a ride on the Lazy River.

is affordable for families. We’ll still be affordable for families, but at the same time, you can’t give it away. We’re going up some on our daily admissions. Our in-county numbers will obviously still be lower than people out of county. But it will be affordable,” he said.

Rollins said the cost of concessions is also going up because the cost of food has gone up. But even the food will be kept at reasonable prices. Keeping the cost affordable overall is key, he said.

“That’s one of the reasons we’ve been successful is that we’re affordable. If you’ve got young families, with two or three small children, it can be a lot to go to a water park.

We’ll have many of the same amenities, but with a smaller price,” he added.

Splash has been a boon for the Statesboro community. In an economic impact study, conducted by Georgia Southern University, it was found that Splash draws a significant amount of out-of-county visitors, and that the total economic impact of the park is estimated at $8.6 million in gross county output.

“We know that we are now a destination, especially with this expansion. We have a lot of people that come in, they’re spending all day here, and they’re usually eating a meal probably somewhere in town, or buying gas or pickup up something at the mall,” Rollins

said. “We feel like we have a significant local economic impact on the community and it’s a positive one. Those dollars are staying right here.”

Rollins said that when he came on board as director in 1986, the rec department’s pools, which had been in place since the 1950s, were in terrible shape and in need of repair.

At the time, he said people out west were looking at aquatic centers as moneymakers and not just something you had to do – and there wasn’t one in Georgia.

“We did a feasibility study on an aquatic facility and it was very positive. It felt like it was the direction we needed to go. We were looking at ways to generate revenue, to help pay the cost of those quality of life things, because we knew we could do more if we could do that. That was the whole idea behind Mill Creek. It took time to convince our county, because it’s a big step, to spend $5 million for a community our size to open a water park that might be open 3 months out of the year,” he said, adding that the caveat was that they would offer programming year-round in the dome.

And that’s just what has transpired. The water park pays for its own costs, and has paid for past expansion. It will also pay for this one, Rollins said.

“Probably 70 percent of the attendance at the water park is from out of county people.

That’s people that are coming in and they’re bringing their money and they’re leaving it with us. They’re paying for a facility that helps our community,” he said.

Splash in the Boro is scheduled to open at 10 a.m. on May 20. For more information or to purchase tickets, go online at www.splashintheboro.com.

Georgia Southern University student Courtney Quarterman, 22, of Dublin joins the fun at Splash in the Boro.

May 2017 • 11

The music scene

By Brandi Harvey

Support local music scene or watch it die out While the locally owned and corporate restaurants are seeing growth as Statesboro grows, there is one area of the local music scene that is feeling a blow. Driving down around Chandler Road and Lanier Drive, what you may find is a lot of nearly empty spaces. Recent years have seen what used to be a thriving college social scene begin to drown in the wake of more and more restrictive alcohol ordinances. Laws that are intended to provide safer regulations for young people in and around Georgia Southern University have begun to have a strangling effect where live music venues are seeing dramatic drops in attendance which are leading local venue owners to question how much longer they will be able to support local musicians.

South City Tavern, a popular music venue for GSU students, is one of the few still open, but owner Chris Springfield is concerned that this may be the last semester the bar is able to offer live music.

“We began really promoting live music so we could act as a music venue and have people of all ages come enjoy the artist and our hospitality,” Springfield says. “This meant letting in people under the age of 21 to hang out with their friends in a controlled setting that would not serve them alcohol rather than have them at house or fraternity parties with no supervision.”

With what Springfield calls the city’s “overly aggressive” attempts to shut down bars, the ticket sales which were used to compensate artists are no longer enough to offer musicians a reasonable pay for their time.

They aren’t giving up, though. Within walk-

12 • Connect Magazine

ing distance of campus housing, South City Tavern, Cowboys (formerly Big Shows), and Dingus Magees all keep social media pages filled up with live music announcements in an effort to keep regulars aware of upcoming shows of local, regional and, occasionally, national artists. The music scene around GSU isn’t dead, but the struggle is real.

Students want to be able to hang out with their friends, listen to music and dance, but local bar owners are facing the challenge of limited numbers. Considering the percentage of the student population that is old enough to enter a 21 and over bar, and subtract those who have no friends who are under 21. Then divide that by the number of venues located in the area and the numbers are just too low. This is without taking into consideration any parties that are being held on any given night that do not offer the supervision of staff to check IDs to ensure that only those over 21 are drinking. Local 21-and-up music venues are facing a real challenge to continue to support local artists, but students and citizens are hoping it’s a challenge they conquer.

One venue, however, isn’t feeling the burn because it’s not the party scene that they’re interested in. The BiRDHAUS, founded by local band BiRDPERSON, is making waves in a whole new way in Statesboro. From an artist’s perspective, it’s a breath of fresh air.

The BiRDHAUS offers a performance venue unlike any other in our area. BiRDPERSON member Aaron Cooler describes those who attend shows as more of a community whose goal is to appreciate the art, support the artists and provide a platform for them to share their music. And with this concept, they are finding a niche that is filled with artists from as far as Wisconsin and Texas who are looking to book shows in venues just like theirs

across the country.

Of course, you’re not likely to find your favorite cover band playing here.

“There are some folks who play some covers,” Cooler says,” but we encourage the artists to play any originals that they have because that’s really what we’re here for. That’s what we want to hear.”

Genre isn’t really a focus for those who attend shows at the BiRDHAUS, either. They have “mixed genre” shows featuring multiple artists of varying genres and, according to Cooler, they are very well attended, but there is a catch. The address is not publicized.

Those interested in attending shows have to know someone who knows someone.

While the community keeps itself accountable simply by their own desire to enjoy the music without the influence of alcohol, they understand that venues like theirs are often misunderstood by communities. What artists see, however, is a place to perform original music to an audience that is eager to listen.

As an artist, this is a beautiful concept, and one I’d love to see in action.

So what does all of this mean for music lovers around Georgia Southern campus? It means that regardless of the local laws, musicians will find a place to play, even if it’s their own living rooms. It means that venues will continue to fight for local musicians to be heard by as many people as are willing to listen, even if that means fighting through the challenges presented by local ordinances. It means that you, as music lovers, are the vital key. Without your support, none of these venues can continue to offer venues for local artists to perform, and without local music, there isn’t national music. Each and every person we hear on the radio today began in small local venues who gave them a chance to perform and be heard and earn a living through music.

Next month, we’ll take a break from our series to do a special piece on of our areas most influential musicians, Wesley Bragg. A young, talented, generous man whose death left a void in the Statesboro music scene.

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HOT TEMPERED - Deputies responded to a reported fight on Flowers Road between a woman and her sister-in-law. One woman said the other tried to burn her with a hot pan and then strike her. The other woman said she was throwing some burned food out and the first woman kicked her.

GANG THREATS – A See Pines Apartments man told deputies another man threatened him and referred to a notorious gang over an argument about a hat and jacket.

JUST A DATE – An Old Register Road woman reported an unknown man knocked on her door and asked her out. She wasn’t flattered, but frightened, and called deputies, claiming the man made her uneasy.

LOST – An inebriated man with his shoes off, torn shirt and a beer can at his feet was found lying in the roadway on Gator Road. He knew he was from Brunswick, but didn’t know anyone who could come get him and said he had nowhere to go. Deputies took him to jail.

SOMETHING TO HIDE? – A man came home early from a fishing trip to his Alexander Road West home and asked to see his wife’s cell phone. She said no. As he grabbed for it, so did she, and his hand struck hers, she said.

FOOD FIGHT – A Hunnicut Drive woman called police to make a report that she and her boyfriend argued after he ate her sub sandwich.

May 2017 • 13

showcases

By Rashida Otunba

Spring youth showcases to take the stage this month

As the academic year draws to a close, students at the Averitt Center for the Arts are preparing to show off their skills in their annual spring showcases.

The program will feature both solos and group performances from members of the Youth Ballet and the Statesboro Chamber Orchestra and Youth Strings, as well as the Statesboro Youth Chorale, who have been preparing diligently for their spring performances.

The recital requires immense planning and practice from all involved. For the music recital, community members like Jessica Orvis and James Glass have also volunteered their time to help out. Orvis, a Georgia Southern chemistry professor, will be playing second violin in the orchestra while Glass, music minister at Trinity Presbyterian Church, will play double bass.

“I will not turn away anybody who would be willing to help me out and I’m extremely grateful for all these people,” said Jonathan Aceto, youth strings director at the Averitt Center.

This year’s music showcase will also include four members of the Youth Chorale, who will be joining the orchestra for a few arias, directed by Dr. Tamara Watson Harper. These students are Xavier Deckard, Madison Patrick, Ami Palmer and Olivia 14 • Connect Magazine

Liggett, who is also a former violinist from the orchestra who transitioned to the chorale. The vocalists will perform four pieces of classical music, including selections by Mozart and Puccini.

The orchestra will perform both classical and modern pieces, including the overture from “ The Barber of Seville,” one of Aceto’s favorites, as well as a medley of themes from the James Bond films.

“It’s so exciting when everything does fall together and I’m hearing the dynamics and I’m hearing these beautiful melodies.

Everybody had worked so hard. Each kid and each adult have worked so hard on their own and it all comes together during the concert,” Aceto said. “It actually sounds like the piece it’s supposed to sound like and that’s really exciting.”

In addition to music, dance students have also prepared a program to show off their hard work. The center offers many dance classes for patrons, including ballet, pointe and folk dance.

Directed by Jurjis Safonovs, the showcase will feature 50 dancers, who range in age from children to adults. Students will perform both solo and group routines, and classical dance numbers, as well as pieces featuring tap and jazz choreography.

Ballet instructors place emphasis on Rus-

sian ballet technique and states that students begin to train for one hour a week as beginners, which then transitions into as many as eight classes per week as they advance in skill.

“I closely monitored all students’ progress throughout the year, and selected the excerpts that will best showcase their skills and entertain our audience,” Safonovs said. “(My favorite thing is) seeing how students transform into ballet experts, how dance becomes a valuable part of their lives, and how it enriches their personalities.”

The music showcase will take place May 13 at 4 p.m., while the dance showcase will take place on May 20 at 7 p.m. Both shows will be held at the Emma Kelly Theatre.

GRADS

Are you willing to gamble with your life for a drink?

The big day is fast approaching! You and your friends have likely spent the last few months planning every little detail to make sure your prom night is one for the ages. But have you thought about how you’ll make it home safe and sound after the party?

Every year, young adults tragically lose their lives or become seriously injured in prom night car crashes, and alcohol, sadly, is usually involved. If you anticipate raising a glass (or several) in celebration, make sure to take the necessary precautions. Find a designated driver, call your parents, hail a cab or stay the night at a friend’s place; whatever you do, just don’t get behind the wheel.

Remember, prom is a celebratory event to mark the end of an important chapter in your life and the beginning of a new one. Don’t let a reckless decision turn your night to remember into a terrible nightmare.

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arts seen

The Arts SEEN is a new feature in Connect, and we invite you to send us your photos! Send photos, along with information about the event, as well as the names of those pictured, to amorrison@connectstatesboromagazine.com.

Molly Couch, right, shops ceramic bowls with mom, Carolyn, while fellow F1RST Friday patrons fill their purchased bowls with chili during the April 7 Bowls in the Boro event downtown. “Bowls” is a fundraiser for the Visual Arts program at the Averitt Center for the Arts, housed at the Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts on East Vine Street.

Dress rehearsal on stage at the Averitt for the cast of “Our Town.”

The cast of “Our Town” gets instruction from Jackie Gordon, director for the production, held April 6-8 at Averitt Center for the Arts.

16 • Connect Magazine

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May 2017 • 17

Youth Theater

By Angye Morrison

C.S. Lewis classic to be performed at the Averitt May 4 When four children went into a mysterious wardrobe, none of them anticipated the great adventure they’d have – or that we’d be tagging along.

The Statesboro Youth Theater group at the Averitt Center for the Arts will perform “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” beginning May 4. The story focuses on the four Pevensie children: Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy. The foursome is evacuated during World War II to the countryside to live with Professor Digory Kirke. Lucy finds a mysterious wardrobe and enters, with no idea that it leads to a land called Narnia. The quartet soon finds themselves in the middle of an epic battle between good and evil.

The show features a large cast of more than 40, and includes a wide span of ages, from adults all the way to 5- and 6-year-old performers, said Eddie Frazier, co-director and costume master for the show.

John Parcels will portray the lion Aslan, and Sarah Kate Thompson will take on the role of Lucy. The other Pevensie children will be portrayed by Kian DeVine (Edmund), Joshua Drew Hawkins (Peter) and Chloe Stack (Susan).

Isabel Vicers will play the White Witch, with Garett Coleman as Mr. Tumnus, and

Kevin Kolbe and Amber Wade as Mr. and Mrs. Beaver. Other cast members include Bryan Burke Jr., Jameson Orvis, Kimball Shaw, Shanna Haselton, Kenzie Cannady, Zac Davis, Stan Haselton, Caroline Snipes, John Marsh, Cecilia Marsh, Aidan Sowell, Sofia Constantini, Claire Kennedy, Erin Henry, Hugh Henry, Wyatt Henry, Rowan Henry, Bridget Henry, Dominick Henry, Mackenzie Harvey, Aliya Cunningham, Sophie Lunsford, Trenton White, Kiera Andrews, Phoebe Hansen, Olyana Deckard, Katie Calhoun, Avery Kuytandall, Madison Harvey, Kayli Tipton, Julian Schwarz, Jack Blackmon, Edy Kaleta, Xavier Deckard, Tori Mills, Lucas Mather, Kain Price, Noah Shuman, Ella Wilkie and Ally Keene.

The show is directed by Bethany DeZelle.

Stage manager is Ashley Brack, the set is designed by Bunyan Morris, and the lighting and sound design is by Robert Faller.

Frazier said there were more than 100 people who auditioned for the show, making it the largest turnout for auditions ever at the Averitt.

“The story itself is one of the greatest in literature,” Frazier said. “The actors are working diligently to present these characters authentically in the way they were originally written by C. S. Lewis.”

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School of Rock

By Michael Sapp

School of Rock returns with “License to Rock” Radiohead, Rush, U2 and the Red Hot Chili Peppers all have one thing in common – and it isn’t their presence on those unrequited mix tapes you slipped in your crush’s locker years ago. These titans of modern rock all formed in high school. Mary Hannah Samples, director of Pladd Dot Music’s School of Rock program, knows the importance of giving young musicians an outlet for performing early in their careers.

“We started the School of Rock program in 2009 because we wanted a place for our advanced students to learn how to work with other musicians. We also wanted to show students and their parents that having a career in music is a legitimate goal,” said

Samples.

Since its inception, the School of Rock has grouped together students taking lessons at Pladd Dot Music, Chris Mitchell’s downtown music emporium and school.

The bands are pieced together by Samples based on skill level and musical chemistry.

Groups are formed over the summer and then begin a yearlong process of rehearsals and shows, culminating with a large spring concert hosted at the Emma Kelly Theater.

Playing gigs throughout the year tightens up the bands as a whole, but also strengthens the individual musicians’ confidence and drive. Faith Ayala, School of Rock vet-

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eran and lead singer of New Beginnings, said, “I have to admit that early on in the program I was nervous to get up and perform, but having so many opportunities to keep doing gigs, I eventually got more comfortable and have since grown to love it.”

For others, the School of Rock scratches a more primal itch.

“I am a musician and therefore I must rock. It’s in me, I need to perform, learn, gown, and be in front of people who also like to rock,” proclaims Ty Todd, bassist for Roman Empire.

The School of Rock also offers students a look past the performing side of music into areas like marketing and promotions.

Bands take part not only in deciding each year’s theme and finding sponsors for their final show, they also play an active role in booking gigs at places like Eagle Creek Brewing, the Downtown Farmer’s Market, and Three Tree Coffee. The theme for this year’s show is “License to Rock,” a play on the classic James Bond film with “a touch of the Great Gatsby,” as described by Samples.

The concert is slated for May 21 at 6 p.m. Prone to Change, Savage Cabbage, Roman Empire and New Beginnings will be there to perform their favorite rock tunes ranging from acts like Guns ‘n’ Roses to Twenty-One Pilots. Tickets are $5, which is a steal considering you could be witnessing the inception of bona fide rock stars, or at the very least, the star of your next lovelorn mix tape.

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April May 2017 • 19

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Horoscope

vAMPIN’ gAMER

By Tim Webb

ARIES You are very excited to be faced with new challenges. At work or at home, you achieve something brilliant that quickly leads you along the path to success.

TAURUS You may witness a situation that leaves you feeling perplexed. Perhaps someone entrusts you with a secret that you are not very comfortable with for one reason or another.

GEMINI Stress is omnipresent this week; try to avoid unnecessary stimulation, such as from caffeine. Some situations are out of your control and you need to distance yourself from them.

CANCER You take on new responsibilities at work; this is going to be profitable for you. The adjustment is not easy, but your dedication allows you to reach new heights.

LEO Reconnect with your deeper feelings and take steps toward savoring an amazing experience. Some of these emotions may lead you to a form of spirituality.

VIRGO If you are unable to overcome certain emotions, you may want to consult a professional who can guide you. Any form of change is beneficial.

LIBRA The foundations of your relationship may be shaken. You tend to make a lot of compromises, and your partner should now do exactly the same in order to save your relationship.

SCORPIO Physical health is often connected to that of the mind. If you suffer from a chronic health problem, perhaps you need to look for the cause in your emotions or maybe even in the distant past.

SAGITTARIUS You need to improve your confidence in your abilities before you can know success. If you give some room to your ego, your charisma will help you stand out from the crowd.

CAPRICORN You need stability. If you are in the middle of moving, all you have to do is ask for some affection from your loved one in order to feel reassured.

AQUARIUS Do not mince words when expressing your disagreement. You do not hesitate to denounce all forms of injustice, loudly and clearly. You may also address a large crowd.

PISCES A precarious financial situation brings some anxiety. It is important to see things from a more positive perspective and remind yourself that this is only a temporary situation.

Zelda is a must-have for gamers

Last month with the release of the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo also released the next iteration of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. An action adventure game that is developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U, Breath of the Wild follows the protagonist Link, who has been asleep for 100 years only to awaken to find the kingdom of Hyrule threatened by Calamity Ganon.

Unlike past Legend of Zelda games, Breath of the Wild features a physic engine with high definition visuals inside of an open world environment that also includes voice acting now. Players are placed in the open world with little instruction and are free to tackle the journey as they please at their own pace.

This is a game that is built on trial and error and gamers will experience a lot of the latter.

Although you may die a lot in the game, players can continue a short distance from where they died to reevaluate what killed them before. This trial and error and the open world are what make Breath of the Wild so unique and entertaining.

Players will find a multitude of weapons, bows and arrows, shields, armor, materials, food and key items to help throughout the journey. The weapons, bows and shields in this iteration of Zelda have a life expectancy and will break over time after repeated use which causes players to think before using certain weapons. There is also a cooking system that allows the player to make meals and elixirs to replenish health as well as boost stamina or other status effects.

The sheer volume of content and missions found within the game is overwhelming at times and is for sure to give the gamer their money’s worth. Littered throughout the world are shrines that include puzzles which upon completion award gamers with more gear and key items. Also, there are four huge dungeons that include boss battles unlike any other Zelda games. I have over 40 hours in the game and I haven’t even beaten a quarter of the game yet.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of the better games I’ve played and is easily game of the year for me right now. There is little I found wrong with the game. One piece of criticism I could find was the game did not explain early on the cooking mechanic; however, it was later introduced to me in one of my missions. I think all in all Breath of the Wild is one of the greatest games out right now and is a must-have for any gamers.

May 2017 • 21

oVERTHINKING IT bY katherine fallon

Thankful – and educated about the sacrifice on the table Last weekend over a bowl of vegetarian chili with friends, conversation moved into the slaughter of animals. Two people at the table had grown up with animals destined to grace their dinner tables, and told gruesome stories of chicks that grew up beneath the warmth of the wood stove and were then cooked inside it…chickens whose heads were popped off like the heads of plastic dolls, and continued to run around the yard, brainless. This does not upset me.

In fact, I wish there was beef in my chili.

For two years in my late 20s, I lived and worked on a grass-fed cattle ranch in Loveland, Colorado. Nestled between red rimrocks and small gray mountains still recovering from a fire blight years before, I woke

22 • Connect Magazine

up early every day in spring and moved irrigation pipe from one location to the next so that the grass in the pastures would grow quickly, to feed the cattle. In summer, you could see exactly where the cattle had last been grazing, as that land seemed cleanshaven and fresh-faced beside strips of grass up to our waists.

The cattle were docile and communicative. They lay beneath the rare tree and scratched their rumps against barbed wire, and they followed us wherever we led them. They knew our call, and they knew that where we took them, they would be fed anew: fresh water and salt licks, dry golden hay and those vast waves of blue grass.

But about once a month, we led them all unwittingly into the sorting pen, where with a small black switch, body language, and clipped commands, certain of the cattle would be further sorted into the center of the pen. There, on their last night alive, they were given all of the fresh hay they could eat.

They were sorted by their ear tags – 001, 001, 709, 347 – for slaughter, which we called “harvest” to soften the blow. For ourselves. We were told not to get attached, and no cows were ever given official names, but we named some of them, of course. We watched for glimpses of our favorites’ faces as they were carted out to the main road in the blue trailer, which always

smelled of grass and dung.

We weren’t asked to attend the slaughter but most of us chose to observe at least one during our time on the farm. I will never forget the heady scent of frost and blood inside the slaughterhouse, or the sound of the air gun against my favorite cow’s forehead, the shock of his 1,000 pounds slumping against the pen. I watched, crying, as they hung him by pulley and chain, then bled him out into a gray 32-gallon trash bin.

It got more gruesome from there, but also strangely more palatable. He began to look more like meat and less like an animal.

Later, I ate him. I bought steaks and roasts and even his tongue, which I’d spent so much time watching move around the sloppy mown-lawn hinge of his jaw. I want to say he was particularly delicious, but in truth, he tasted like the other cattle from his herd.

I worried that watching a slaughter would lead me back toward my vegetarian roots, but the opposite happened in the wake of that experience. I eat more meat now, but I have a different understanding of it, a sort of seeing backward: the steak is the lowing cow, born so that I could eat it. Somehow, refusing to ignore the fact of that killing has made me more comfortable with the killing itself. I thank my food before I eat. Silently.

An atheist’s prayer to the food chain, and to sacrifice.

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Tailgate Tattler

BY Chris Stanley

A win at home would be ‘something special’ for GSU When driving around Statesboro it’s nearly impossible to avoid Fair Road. Anyone craving Popeyes, Panda Express or Arby’s has to take Fair Road to get there, and for fans of Georgia Southern athletics it funnels them into Hanner Fieldhouse and JI Clements Stadium.

Whether you’re coming from downtown Statesboro or the Kiwanis Fairgrounds, off to the side of Fair Road is the pleasant sight of Georgia Southern’s athletic park.

From the bridge over Beautiful Eagle Creek to Hanner’s newly renovated entrance, it’s hard not to take your eyes off the road just to catch a glance of what GS has invested in their facilities.

Along with Hanner’s renovations came another new sight for the people of Bulloch County – a towering gray wall enveloping a grandstand that can be seen from Fair Road once you get past the trees which surround the softball fields. That wall and jumbotron belong to the new JI Clements Stadium, renovated just in time for Georgia Southern to host the 2017 Sun Belt Baseball Tournament.

Considering the conference doesn’t have a championship football game and the bas-

24 • Connect Magazine

ketball tournament is permanently held in New Orleans, the baseball tournament is considered the biggest get for any of the Sun Belt’s member schools. It’s has the biggest opportunity for exposure and consistently draws the most fans of any Sun Belt Championship tournament.

“This was a joint effort by all parts of Georgia Southern University,” said Associate Athletics Director for Internal Operations Tracy Ham. “This an opportunity to not only show off our athletic facilities but to show off the university as an academic institution.”

Having the stadium upgrades was merely a bonus for Georgia Southern. Athletic Director Tom Kleinlein had bid on the tournament right as the Eagles became a part of the conference and it was announced in 2016 that Statesboro would officially host the 10 teams that qualify from around the conference.

JI Clements went under renovations after booster Ed Nelson was inspired by the atmosphere created by Fenway Park in Boston.

The Green Monster – Fenway’s famous left field wall that extends 37 feet in the air – was Nelson’s favorite feature. He’d return

from Boston and decide his alma mater needed something similar for their baseball team, from the atmosphere to a giant outfield wall.

“To have people like Ed Nelson affiliated with this university makes things much easier,” Ham said.

The new stadium can hold 3,500 people and boasts a “Blue Monster” in right field facing Fair Road. A giant, white “GS” logo is imprinted on a contrasting Georgia Southern blue wall that stands 30 feet over the warning track. It immediately catches your eye as you walk in from either gate, but that was only the start of what’s new at JI Clements.

Turf lines the foul areas down the first and third base sides with a another giant GS imprinted behind home plate and a jumbotron in left field. It’s the kind of baseball experience normally reserved for the bluebloods like LSU or South Carolina, but the people of Statesboro get to be spoiled with power five ambiance in a mid-major town.

“The fan experience is something we’re always trying to enhance,” Ham said. “The renovations are going to make Georgia

Southern game day a unique experience.”

And what better year to host the Sun Belt Tournament than the year Coastal Carolina are the defending national champions? As a member of the Big South Conference in 2016, Coastal Carolina led one of the most improbable championship runs not just in the history of college baseball but in the history of college sports period.

In the NCAA tournament the Chanticleers mowed through a bounty of blueblood programs like NC State, LSU, Florida, TCU and eventually Arizona to win the College World Series. Now the defending champs are part of the Sun Belt and will be carrying the crown to Statesboro this month.

But CCU isn’t the only team with some national pedigree who will be in attendance. Louisiana-Lafayette has been a top-25 program going on five years now and has won the tournament three years in row. Additionally, South Alabama has made the NCAA tournament as an at-large team twice since 2013 and Georgia Southern has been in the tournament as the SoCon champs three times since 2009.

“Having Coastal show up has made this tournament even more desirable to host,” Ham said. “The timing was great for all of this.”

With four NCAA tournament caliber teams on hand, the Sun Belt Tournament will be a legit showcase of quality college baseball. As Hennon puts it, anyone who is a fan of baseball period should make their way out because they’d be missing out on an opportunity to see future pros in college uniforms.

“If you come out here you’re going to see great baseball,” said head coach Rodney Hennon. “This is college baseball at one of the highest levels. Our league runs pretty deep.”

Every game will be broadcast on ESPN3, meaning there will be plenty of wide angle shots of that giant GS in right field. It shouldn’t be forgotten there was an economic incentive in bringing the Sun Belt Tournament to Statesboro. Not only will the hospitality community get to serve nine Sun Belt teams and their fans, but GS gets a kind of exposure you don’t get by hosting the soccer or volleyball tournament – something GS has done before.

Anyone watching from any other fan base or college baseball fan will see GS in right field or behind home plate. The logo essentially serves as a free ad every time someone sees it and possibly becomes more interested in Georgia Southern as a school.

With higher viewing numbers, ads for the university run on the broadcast will get the most exposure you can ask for.

“One of the primary goals you have when you host one of these tournaments it projecting a good image for the university,” Ham said. “This broadcast can be seen from anywhere in the world, so we treat this like the whole world will be watching us on those days.”

The appropriate consummation for all of this would be Georgia Southern winning their first Sun Belt championship in their home stadium. It certainly wouldn’t be out of the question, as it’ll come down to the Eagles, Coastal, South Alabama and Lafayette for the title most likely. Hennon agrees, saying it’d be the perfect cap to this year.

“That would be something special,” Hennon said. “If we could win it here on our field it would just add on to how special it would be.”

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May 2017 • 25

Day trippin’

bY Kenley Alligood

Atlanta Botanical Gardens are worth the drive Atlanta is known for a lot of things, including, unfortunately, its traffic. (A 2011 study by Texas A&M determined that Atlanta ranked seventh in the nation for worst commute behind Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York to name a few.)

I grew up on the outskirts of the ever-expanding Metro-Atlanta area, a mere 45 minutes from the city center, but we visited probably once a year on average. It was always something special that brought us there: the zoo, the aquarium, Turner Field, the World of Coke, Fernbank Museum, the beautiful Fox Theatre (be still my heart), or the HIGH Museum of Art. Yes, on occasion Atlanta looks like that one poster for “The Walking Dead” where all of the cars are gridlocked on the outbound highway leaving the inbound lanes shockingly empty, but it’s so worth it.

A late discovery for me was the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, a 30-acre green space in the middle of Midtown. It’s disappointing to me now that I didn’t find it sooner because 26 • Connect Magazine

it quickly shot to the Top 5 of my favorite Atlanta places to spend an afternoon. A team of staff and volunteers roughly 150 people strong maintains the garden’s carefully curated displays. And it truly is a display. On my last visit in early April, the garden was full of pink and yellow tulips and the last azaleas of the year. The special exhibit at that time was one they fondly call “Orchid Daze,” and it is truly dazzling. The garden has an impressive collection of orchids of their own, some of which are very rare and part of ongoing conservation efforts, but for Orchid Daze they bring in even more, filling all of the empty space in the Fuqua Conservatory and Orchid Center with blankets of delicate flowers. Walking into the conservatory feels like walking into another world or, to be more accurate, worlds. You can experience South American jungle, the deserts of the American West, and the mountainous cloud forests of the Andes, all just by walking through a few doors.

Everything in the garden is aesthetically

pleasing, a living art exhibit, something the garden’s curators hope to emphasize with an exhibition called The Curious Garden starting May 6 and running through October 29. The installation hopes to point out how art can complement a natural landscape and how nature inspires art. In fact, the relationship between nature and art is something the Atlanta Botanical Gardens is passionate about, offering weekly classes in drawing and painting taught by local artist Carol Anne Sutherland and hosting various short-term exhibits. Last year the garden hosted, and served as the backdrop for, the intricate glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly, but drawing and sculpture aren’t the only types of art the garden offers. June 18 kicks off the garden’s summer concert series with a performance by Atlanta’s own “Empress of Soul” Gladys Knight with her hometown’s glittering skyline as a backdrop.

The garden’s interaction with the city is something special, often exploring the complex relationship between urban and

ADVERTISING IS

KEY

organic environments. The new Skyline Garden, opening to the public in May, will provide visitors with spectacular views of downtown Atlanta as they stroll among a garden populated by hundreds of plants native to the state. The 1.5-acre expansion is replacing an old gazebo which overlooked Piedmont Park with a modernized, more visitor friendly space.

Speaking of modern renovations, Longleaf restaurant, opened earlier this year, is the garden’s new full-service dining option.

It joins the Quick Café and the Snack Bar, both of which provide food grab-and-go style. Longleaf was built to compliment the beauty of the garden, and to allow guests to feel as close as possible to the outdoors.

Two whole walls are made of sliding glass panels, allowing the staff to open them as weather permits, making the space light and airy. All of the food is locally sourced, some of the veggies even provided by the garden itself. The menu changes seasonally based on what vegetables are available, but I recommend the GA Beef Burger and, for dessert, the Ricotta Terra Cotta. (I suggest making reservations early in the day, but I didn’t have to wait too long for a table.

Reservations can be made in person or online at http://atlantabg.org/visit/longleaf ) The Atlanta Botanical Gardens are open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Parking is available on site. For information about ticket prices or special offers and events, visit http://atlantabg.org/visit/ tickets

Stephanie Childs Marketing/Sales Manager 912-531-0786

May 2017 • 27

Announcements

Pets & Animals

For Your Information

Pets

Get answers about Medicare and UnitedHealthcare plans!

April 28th, 2:00 PM at Fordham’s Farmhouse Restaurant.

No obligation or cost to attend.

Contact 912-856-3434 to RSVP.

Adopt a Shelter Pet Homeless Pets need love too!

Amazing Aussie puppies available in March Blue Merles, Reds, Black Tris; 700-1000$, negotiable See FB: Galena’s Aussie Puppies Call: 205 568 4579

Services Business Services

HG50506

Best prices and service in the ‘Boro Call 912-541-2809

NOW REGISTERING FOR SUMMER CAMP!

Roosevelt’s Character Development Center 220 North Main Street $65 per child/per week Ages 5 & up Limited spaces available Call 912-486-4713

If You Like Bargains Classifieds are Terrific, Be a regular reader and get in on the savings.* 28 • Connect Magazine

Home Repairs & Improvement

We clean business, homes and after events for low prices. Call 912-212-6879 for quotes. We also strip and wax floors

Do it all Lawn Care anything from tree removal, Bush hog and pressure washing.

All the way down to your basic lawn care locally owned and operated feel free to call or text for your free quote.

Robert Crabtree, 912-334-8755

Spay and Neuter!

Adopt@countyshelter 912-764-4529, petfinder.com statesborohumane. org @912-681-9393 Low-cost spay/neuter, free transport: SNAC 843-645-2500 hhhumane.org

Strickland Pool Service INGROUND POOL LINER REPLACEMENT Call Bryan today!

912-657-5176

Cail Tree Service Prepress Technician Morris Multimedia, Inc. Statesboro Printing Prepress Department Now Hiring Job: Prepress Technician

Biff Cail Limbing, Pruning, Shaping, Removal-Stump & Root Grinding Bobcat Work, Bush-hogging Free Estimates with no obligation We have the equipment to do the job right!

Service with Honesty and Integrity Licensed/Insured

912-978-7942

Jobs Help Wanted

Busy Local Restaurant needs Cooks and Servers immediately.

Prep and Breakfast Cooks . Line and Breakfast Servers. Am and Pm shifts.

Apply daily from 2-4 pm.

Online at fordhamsfarmhouse.com

GAF, America’s largest roofing manufacturer, has an opening for an experienced Maintenance Technician to provide general maintenance support and PM’s of equipment for the Statesboro ISO Plant.

Required Skills: High school diploma or GED with a minimum of 3 years industrial maintenance experience.

Preferred Skills: 5 years of industrial maintenance experience in troubleshooting and repair of mechanical power trains, hydraulic and pneumatic equipment, welding and assembly of parts and materials.

Experience with Allen Bradley ControlLogix Controllers / RSLogix 5000 Software. Familiar with PLC systems.

At GAF, we believe our employees are our greatest resource. We offer competitive salary, benefits, and vacation package for all full-time permanent positions.

If interested, please apply at http://www.gaf.com/about_ gaf/careers

Must be skilled in Windows PC environment, Proficiency in Adobe Graphic Suite preferred.

Hours: Part-time Friday - Sat. Night shift. Hours vary, expect up to 20 hours/week.

Pressure Washing 35 years experience 912-587-5189 912-243-7857 John 3:3

Public Works Department

Equipment Operator

$11.89/hr + Competitive Benefits.

Email resume to blawjr@ statesboroherald.com and come to front desk and request an application for employment.

Must apply online @ www.statesboroga.gov Equal Opportunity Employer

Will train in other necessary print related programs.

Real Estate

RN needed for busy medical office. Must be self-motivated, dependable, skilled in computer use, patient assessment, and team care, and have a special love for the care of geriatric population.

Position responsible for chronic care, yearly assessments for Medicare beneficiaries, and quality initiatives. Rewarding position for the right candidate. Please send cover letter and resume to statesboro.30459.office@gmail. com

For Rent

New Flooring and Paint.

2 BR/2BA duplex near GSU campus, family friendly. Move in today with $500 deposit and $550 per month rent.

Call for a tour (770) 330-1497.

NOW LEASING-COLLEGE WALK! NEWLY UPGRADED ONE&TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS. ALL-INCLUSIVE RATES INCLUDE: POWER, WATER, CABLE&HIGH-SPEED INTERNET. RATES STARTING AT $525 PER MONTH. CALL (912)6812437 TO INQUIRE.

Gary’s Painting

Commercial P&C agency, seeking ambitious sales producer. Serving local churches, schools and nonprofit organizations. Strong character and work ethic a must.

Send resume to info@rhsimsins. com. Background checks required.

REMEMBER: To check with The Bulloch County Animal Shelter, 301 North. If you have lost a pet. 764–4529.*

Description of duties: Receive pdf’s from newsroom and use Kodak Workflow Software direct to plate system to make plates for pressroom. Proof papers, quality control, etc.

Save A Lot located at 1870 Northside Dr E in Statesboro is looking to hire an experienced Meat Cutter. Full or Part-time positions available. Apply in person.

NOW LEASING-COLLEGE WALK! NEWLY UPGRADED ONE&TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS. ALL-INCLUSIVE RATES INCLUDE: POWER, WATER, CABLE&HIGH-SPEED INTERNET. RATES STARTING AT $525 PER MONTH. CALL (912)6812437 TO INQUIRE.

May 2017 • 29

NOW LEASING-COLLEGE WALK! NEWLY UPGRADED ONE&TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS. ALL-INCLUSIVE RATES INCLUDE: POWER, WATER, CABLE&HIGH-SPEED INTERNET. RATES STARTING AT $525 PER MONTH. CALL (912)6812437 TO INQUIRE.

Automotive Cars/Trucks/Vans

Quiet Living

1 bedroom unfurnished or Studio Furnished Conveniently located near Statesboro Mall . Visit or call Mill Run 912-489-8402

2007 Chevy Uplander 7-pass. blue minivan. 83,525 miles. V-6. Good condition, new battery. $3650.

489-4208.

Buy it now $1789 EX V-6, 3.0L, auto, 111,625 miles. Text or Call 412-228-0403

Please enjoy a cup of coffee with Statesboro Herald operations manager and editor Jim Healy Tuesday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m. in the Herald office on Proctor Street.

Give us your ideas about plans for the Maxway center, share your concerns about an issue or ask questions about the newspaper.

Please join us!

30 • Connect Magazine

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Greenbriar Office: Phone: 912.681.1166 | Fax: 912.871.6116 WWW.HENDLEYPROPERTIES.COM

21 Greenbriar Apartments | Statesboro, GA 30458 May 2017 • 31

VOTED BEST OF SAVANNAH 14 YEARS IN A ROW Military Discounts & Student Discounts CHECK OUT OUR STATESBORO STORE (ACROSS FROM THE FAIR GROUNDS) 17067 HWY 67 STATESBORO • 912-681-7766 Mon - Wed: 10am-10pm • Thurs: 10am-12am • Fri - Sat: 10am-1am • Sun: 12pm-8pm