The Ville - July 2011

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Page 2

July 2011

Glad I’m not a politician....

Cover Art

by Brooks Hinton

Volume 2 Issue 2 Follow us on Facebook facebook.com/ theville and Twitter @theVille_ga

Yes, I am standing on a soapbox and seem to be in a quite irritable mood so here goes.

I can tell that I’ve turned 30. I listen to news radio on the way to work, read the newspaper in the morning at my desk. I watch CNN when I’m getting ready in the morning and read it often online during the day. Yes, I am getting older and maybe more of a pessimist with every passing moment.

Today the NFLPA and NFL managed to settle their differences and come to an agreement on a new labor contract. Fantastic. We will have pro football in the fall. A government? May not have one of those.

Seriously. Why is there even such a word as “bi-partisan?” It does not seem to have a meaning in today’s political world. It seems to be a mere ideology rather than an actual goal of two sides looking to improve the country as a whole.

Who is really running the country?

It seems like it’s the Republicans versus Obama on all fronts. You would think that each party thought the other to be the enemy instead of fellow countrymen.

I know I am not behind the closed doors during these talks and do not know the ins and outs of the discussions and really can only write about what is presented to me.

What the media does present to me is two sides that vehemently disagree and don’t seem willing to budge for the other. One side says they are trying the other says no they are not. Back and forth we go and we seem to have found ourselves in one big goat rodeo.

Seriously, to the politicians who are trying to get it right, we appreciate your efforts but I think we would all like to see both sides get along and do great things for us littel people.

Signed....a little person

Back-to-school themed First Friday coming Aug. 5th

By STEVEN CARY The next First Friday is around the corner, as the downtown event is set for Aug. 5 with a back to school theme.

Like past First Fridays, the August event will feature unique events specific to the theme, while promoting business downtown.

“Each month has had a little bit different stuff,” Carlee Schulte, Milledgeville Mainstreet director, said. “This month we’re going to be doing back-to-school, so we will be doing a fashion show on South Wayne Street, on the pedestrian tunnel, to feature all the downtown clothing stores.”

Another feature at the coming First Friday will be Regginald Stanley’s School Supply Drive.

“Regginald Stanley, he will be giving away school supplies to kids during the first Friday event,” Schulte said. “If anyone has anything they want to give, they can drop off at the Mainstreet office downtown.”

Other activities include the continuation of the stamp cards, a community art project on the temporary wall outside of the old Prestwood Graphics building and a band.

A few local school mascots are, also expected to make an appearance at the event.

Merchants wanting to participate are encouraged to contact Schulte at mainstreetdesk@milledgevillega.us for more information.

For more details, check out the First Friday Facebook page at Milledgeville First Friday for information and updates.

Write: P.O. Box 520 Milledgeville, GA 31061 Call: 478.453.1462 Fax: 478.453.1450 Email: theville31061@gmail.com

staff Publisher Keith Barlow 478.453.1441 Editor Natalie Davis 478.453.1462 Circulation Director Michael Evans 478.453.1401 Advertising Director Erin Simmons 478.453.1437 Advertising Representatives Melissa Hinton 478.453.1434 Haley Harper 478.453.1432 Creative Manager Brooks Hinton 478.453.1429 Contributing Writers Sarah Beth Ariemma Steven Cary Jimmy Holder Samantha Severin

July 2011

Page 3

As the community arts continue to grow, the Milledgeville

As the Milledgeville Players get set to complete their end-of-summer musical, “Damn Yankees,” Players come alive, as they get set to perform their end-ofthe-summer musical, “Damn Yankees,” Aug. 17-21 in the interest continues to grow in the local community theater group.

By STEVEN CARY

Russell Auditorium.

The musical is based on Douglass Wallop’s novel, “The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant.” It is based in the 1950s when the New York Yankees were the main powerhouse in Major League Baseball.

“It’s a good classic sort of big ole’ 1950s-typemusical, with lots of songs and lots of dancing,” Tom Toney, president of the Milledgeville Players, said. “It’s sort of a take off from Faust, and it’s always been one of my favorites.”

Toney and the Players have put in long hours of practice in an attempt to perfect the musical performance.

“Right now it’s primarily been vocal stuff,” Toney said.

“Whenever we do a musical, about the first month is sort of pieces taking place all over the place, and then once we move into Russell, it becomes trying to fit all the pieces together.”

As the only theatrical group in the community separate from the schools, the Milledgeville Players attract performers of all ages.

“We have a mixture of people,” Toney said. “We have people who just love and enjoy doing it.”

Not only are the performers important for the Players’ performances, so are the workers and volunteers helping backstage, taking tickets and building the sets.

“We have got to have volunteers,” Toney said. “We have people who will be behind the scenes, we have a stage crew, we have people who have to move the props and move the sets, and make sure things are where they are supposed to be.

“We are always looking for volunteers from the community,” he said.

Toney admits that “Damn Yankees” offers a mixture of new actors and an older cast, something he believes is appealing to an audience.

“This one is probably one of the best mixtures I’ve seen in a while of veterans and newcomers,” Toney said. “We like to have some people you’ve never seen or maybe some people you haven’t seen in a couple years, that way it doesn’t feel like it’s getting old.”

With the increasingly large interest in theater, art and music within the Milledgeville community, Toney admits there is a responsibility to give the audience what they are looking for in the performances.

“There is nothing we like more than that, it benefits us and I think it benefits everybody else,” Toney said. “I think it all really adds to what you are and who you are, and the culture of the community.”

The Players are continuing to grow in the Milledgeville community, as they stage around four performances a year.

“We’re up to four regular things now,” Toney said. “That’s grown from essentially two to three to four — we definitely have added stuff over the years.”

The performance dates are approaching rapidly, and Toney and his performers are getting excited.

“I’m very excited,” Toney said. “The cast is definitely into it.”

Toney and the Players hope to see the auditorium packed in August, as the cast has put a lot of time into practice for the performance.

“These people are your neighbors, they are your family, they are your friends,” Toney said. “Please come out and see the play.”

For information on the upcoming performance, tickets or The Milledgeville Players, visit www.milledgevilleplayers.org.

Page 4

July 2011

Arts, Culture and Entertainment in the ‘Ville

pg 3 pg 5 pg 7

what’s inside Damn Yankees

The Milledgeville Players are getting ready their end-of-summer show “Damn Yankees.”

Puebla’s Taco night at Puebla’s is awesome. Seriously, it is. We tried it and you should too.

Beyond the Point and Shoot Photographer Danielle Fields offers photography training for beginners.

pg 10

Fond Farewell Local fans say goodbye to Harry.

pg 14

Q&A with Stephanie Westmoreland Stephanie Westmoreland of Georgia College’s Continuing Education program gives us insight on this year’s Milledgeville Idol competition.

Also check out.....

Local Beer Review ........................................8 Jimmy Holder shares his love for good beer and gives us his recommendation for good beer in the city.

Dining Guide..................................................8 This is not your average dining guide. We sorted them by cuisine so you can easily find Chinese or Mexican and also get a quick glance at the prices to expect.

Opinions .......................................................11 We ask the people of Milledgeville what element they would add to the downtown area to improve it.

Grab a FREE copy of the ’Ville Brick Buffington’s Puebla’s Mexican Restaurant 42nd Floor Jittery Joe’s Barberitos Metropolis Café Ryal’s Bakery Charmed The Red Door Convention & Visitors Bureau Chamber of Commerce Courthouse GMC New Academic Building GMC Library GCSU Student Center GCSU Library La Fête Pair-O-Dice Starbucks Stage One Haircutters Twin Lakes Beverage Haus Bluz Tattooz Lieu’s Peking Maggie Lane Pickle Barrel PJ’s Steakhouse IHOP Goodie Gallery The Union-Recorder Jet Food Store Linda’s Beauty Shop Frances Beauty Shop Holiday Inn Express Days Inn Comfort Suites Fairfield Inn Royal Blood Tattoo Shear Design Digital Bridges French Vill’Edge Folks Art Gallery Kuroshima Blackbird Coffee Aubri Lanes Yellow Box in front of the courthouse and Post Office Amici’s The Bellamy Roc’s Texaco Express Fitness Plus Cowboys Hop-in next to Lowe’s Hallmark Twin Lakes Libraries The Velvet Elvis

If you want to distribute the ‘Ville at your business, please call us at 478-453-1400

July 2011

Page 5

FOOD REVIEW Puebla’s packs a flavor-filled Punch Puebla’s Mexican restaurant has been serving Milledgeville since 1997 and features a great atmosphere along with nearly authentic, Tex-Mex favorites to suit any palate.

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“We have the best salsa in Milledgeville and we also have the best margarita on the rocks.

Manager Alejandro Puebla

By SARAH BETH ARIEMMA Alejandro and Armando Puebla have been serving Milledgeville since 1997, and their true-to-their-roots food really hits a high note downtown.

The little restaurant is nestled on 112 W. Hancock St., but packs a real flavor-filled punch. The brothers, who have been working in Mexican restaurants for 25 years, have decorated the restaurant in a traditional style. Puebla’s features a different special every night.

Monday, Taco Night features $1 tacos, $1 beer and $3 margaritas. Tuesday features any combination for $4.99 and pitchers of draft beer are only $4.99. Wednesday is Ladies Night, and with the purchase of any small or medium margarita, customers can receive a second drink free. Thursday and Saturday nights are College Nights, and with the purchase of any draft, customers receive one for free. Friday, import beer is only $2.50.

Manager Alejandro Puebla loves working in a college town where the students are sweet and the beer is sweeter. The restaurant changes up the menu every three years to keep favorites fresher and introduce new favorites to the community.

I decided to try the $1 chicken taco and the fresh salsa and crispy chips. The service was friendly, and I noticed a full bar that I couldn't wait to hit up after work.

As soon as Puebla brought the hot, perfectly salted chips and salsa to the table, I was hooked. The salsa is both spicy and sweet, and Puebla informed me that for people who are interested in an even hotter salsa, they can provide that as well.

“We have the best salsa in Milledgeville and we also have the best margarita on the rocks. Not to mention, we are located right downtown so students don't have to walk far from their apartments and dorms,” he said.

The tacos come with lettuce and cheese, but they can also be completely customizable with sour cream, tomatoes and anything else that strikes the customer's fancy.

I took a bite of the shredded hot chicken, stewed in tomatoes and bell peppers, thick cheese and fresh lettuce with a hard, crunchy shell. The taste was a fiesta explosion, and I couldn't believe Puebla’s offers such a high quality taco for only $1. Monday nights just became my favorite night of the week.

The tacos can be ordered in either hard or soft shell, which is great because I didn't even think I liked a hard shell until I tried the hard taco at Puebla’s. I am a woman converted.

The lunch prices average about $6 and the dinner prices are about $8. The cheese dip is one of the most popular appetizers, along with the quesadillas and nachos. Puebla’s is a community favorite as well. Keisha Fosten and her family have made coming to Puebla’s a tradition.

“It's the best Mexican food I've tasted. The salsa is phenomenal. My family and I have been coming here for years, and it started as a football tradition. We'd come on Thursday nights before the game. We soon realized we were coming on nights other than game nights, and we've been here ever since. The food is great and the prices are reasonable.”

The best part is that there is a little something for everyone at Puebla’s. I don't live as near to town as I used to, but luckily, Puebla’s even offers to-go orders.

Now that's something I can sink my teeth into. To call in an order, Pubela’s can be reached at (478) 452-1173.

Page 6

July 2011

MAN ON THE STREET.....READER RECOMMENDED MUSIC AND BOOKS In honor of summer, our fearless (Wo)Man on the Street has compiled a list of summer music suggestions for our fellow ‘Ville readers to check out.

album revi ews “The Future of What” UNWOUND Released in 1995, five years into the band’s 10year existence, this album is a fire-bomb compared to the band’s epic final album. (Check back next month for a review of that one!) Certain tracks, (like the opener, “Energy Field” and “Petals Like Bricks,” to name a few) resonate deeply as posthardcore, but around track 14 or so, and intermittently throughout the album, things get weird. A handful of these tracks include long droneinspired periods of time, employing repeated melodies or feedback noises. Even with the slower and heavier moments of the album, it’s all attention-grabbing.

“Calculated” HEAVENS TO BETSY You know that deodorant commercial that says “Strong enough for a man, but made for a woman”? That’s what this music is. It’s girl-power punk, born of the Riot Grrl movement, but it’s louder than what the boys are doing today. This album encompasses all the angst and independence of the ‘90s. Heavens to Betsy’s resume boasts a performance at the legendary underground event, International Pop Underground, alongside Bratmobile and 7 Year Bitch. Heavens to Betsy were associated with the Olympia-based labels K Records and Kill Rock Stars.

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Dr. Russell Edwards & Dr. Cheryl Council 2639 N. Columbia St. • Milledgeville, GA • 478-452-5531

This playlist was created with American themes in mind and only features artists that are native to the USA. There are 13 songs, in honor of the original 13 colonies, and I expect at least 50 high fives, in honor of these great 50 states. Love, Samm!

1. “1969” The Stooges, from The Stooges 2. “Om Nia Merican” Saul Williams, from Amethyst Rock Star 3. “Found A Job” Talking Heads, from The Name of This Band is Talking Heads 4. “Mr. November” The National, from Alligator 5. “Motor City is Burning” MC5, from Kick Out The Jams 6. “Apple Pie and Police State” Choking Victim from Crack Rock Steady 7. “My Generation [Live]” Patti Smith (with John Cale), from Horses 8. “Kiss Distinctly American” Q and Not U, from No Kill No Beep Beep 9. “Shooting Dirty Pool” The Replacements, from Pleased to Meet Me 10. “Beach Party Vietnam” The Dead Milkmen, from Eat Your Paisley 11. “War On War” Wilco, from Yankee Hotel Foxtrot 12. “Here’s Your Future” The Thermals, from The Body, The Blood, The Machine 13. “The Star Spangled Banner” Jimi Hendrix, live from Woodstock, 1969 So what’s in your summer playlist rotation? Tell us. Shoot us a message on Facebook.

We’d love to include some of your responses. Post on our wall at http://www.facebook.com/theville.

—Compiled by Samantha Severin

July 2011

Page 7

BEYOND THE POINT AND SHOOT Fields Photography and Framing begins photography classes next month

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“I learn from them just as much as they learn from me.”

Danielle Fields

By STEVEN CARY Little did Danielle Fields know at 17 years old, that she would go on to capture some of the dearest moments in the lives of the people in this community.

Her senior year, Fields recalls her grandmother buying a camera for her. She started getting into photography shortly after.

“I started photography my sophomore year,” Fields said. “I first started out with kids and weddings.”

Fields enjoys taking the candid shots that capture the moments we all want to remember.

“Being able to capture moments,” Fields said.

“You know my photography is a lot different than most; it’s still portrait photography, it’s still wedding photography, but it’s all about capturing moments no matter what you’re doing, whether it’s a moment in time, whether it’s an angle of a building with a certain light, a kid’s face or baby when it’s smiling — it’s all about capturing those special moments you want to remember.”

Unlike typical photographers, Fields takes pride in her desire to find unique backdrops for her photography.

“Mine has a more rustic and urban feel to it, that’s just the way I like to shoot,” Fields said. “I like to go in dirty places, most people like to go in pretty places — it just works for me.”

In an attempt to share her abilities and art of photography, Fields offers classes throughout the year to help anyone desiring to learn the basic features of a camera.

“Basically I’m just teaching people how to use their cameras,” Fields said. “A lot of people buy these big expensive cameras and the they end up using them just like they do their point-and-shoot, and there’s so much more you can do with it if you know

how to use the settings.”

Fields enjoys teaching the courses on photography, because she admits she’s always picking up new ideas from the students.

“A lot of times I end up being more challenged than they are because each week we go over a certain topic and then they have the week to basically do homework and go out and shoot,” Fields said. “A lot of times they’ll catch angles and light, or shadows — they capture things I probably would not have thought about, so it’s good even for me — I learn from them just as much as they learn from me.”

Fields also hosts a Cork and Canvas class every other week from 7 to 9 p.m. at $25 a session, where former art students at Georgia College come in to the studio and teach the community how to paint using watercolor, while enjoying a positive social atmosphere with friends and family. The next session will be the last Friday of the month, July 29, in Fields’ studio.

“When I went into it I knew that it would be fun,” Fields said, “but I had absolutely no clue that people would bond, and talk and sit around, enjoying each others company.”

Fields will be teaching a four-week basic photography class offered through the GC Continuing Education Department at $138 beginning on Monday, July 11 at 6 p.m. She will also host her own four-week course at $150 in her studio downtown starting Monday, Aug. 8 at 6 p.m.

For more information on the GC Continuing Education course in July you can go to http://www.gcsu.edu/ce/index.htm and click on the course catalog, or for information on Fields’ personal photography course in August or the Cork and Canvas classes you can stop in the Fields Photography and Framing studio in downtown Milledgeville.

Page 8

July 2011

DINING IN THE ‘VILLE

HEY, THERE’S COCONUT IN THAT BEER...

AND IT WORKS! Jimmy Holder Good Beer Connoisseur Recently I had the privilege of spending a week in Hawaii, specifically The Big Island. My journey was based on visiting America’s premier Kona coffee farms and indeed that was beyond successful. Holding and tasting ripe coffee cherries was a dream come true. Amongst the thick green foliage, bright red and green cherries and majestic sunsets, I discovered a brewery that embodies these natural surroundings and the aloha spirit. Kona Brewing Company, located in the heart of Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island, has been producing distinctive craft beers since 1995. Throughout the island, said to be about the size of Connecticut, Kona is featured on draft and bottles. Out of their double-digit catalog of beers I was able to enjoy Long Board Lager, Big Wave Golden Ale, Fire Rock Pale Ale and Koko Brown.

While each of them had superior highlights, Koko Brown possessed a unique taste my palate has never experienced. It must have been after four or seven that I realized it was toasted coconut. If you’ve read some of my other beer reviews you know I am not a fan of fruit in my beer. I certainly wouldn’t be drawn to beer boasting a flavor that brings to mind piña coladas or sunscreen, but underneath my misconceptions was the island’s icon and notorious symbol. Kona Brewing Company says the delicious coconut and heart of this island treasure has a nutty, toffee flavor and aroma that sends you straight to the beaches of Paradise and I must agree. The dark reddish pour reveals an aroma of toasted coconut and roasted coffee. The brown ale then delivers robust tastes of molasses, coconut, coffee and malts. This beer isn’t particularly a summer selection, but in Kona, summer reaches maximum a heat of 78 degrees and allows the thickness of Koko Brown to be more than just a sipper. While widely available in Hawaii, Kona Brewing Company’s distribution is limited, although nationally in the United States. Look for any of Kona Brewing Company’s offerings when visiting major cities, particularly Koko Brown.

Aloha and Cheers!

BLD: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BAR: Alcohol served

AMERICAN/BARS/PUBS Appleblee’s 106 Roberson Mill Rd. Sports bar, classic American dining, hot wings. LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 453-8355.

Buffington’s 120 W. Hancock St. Sandwiches, salads, hot wings and dining specials in a tavern-like setting.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

Weekdays 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m to 1:30 a.m.; also open Sundays.

(478) 414-1975.

Chili’s 2596 N. Columbia St. Bar and grill, hot wings.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 452-1900.

Duke’s Dawghouse 162 Sinclair Marina Rd. Sandwiches and burgers.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 453-8440 119 Chops 119 S. Wayne St. Sports pub and nightly specials.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 387-4550.

Pickle Barrel 1880 N. Columbia St. Café and sports pub.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

Sunday-Tuesday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Wednesday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Ruby Tuesday 2440 N. Columbia St. Classic American dining. LD • BAR • $$$. (478) 452-5050.

Velvet Elvis Supper Club 113 West Hancock St. Seafood, burgers, wings and more. LD • BAR • $$.

Monday-Saturday 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.

(478) 453-8226.

ASIAN Asian Bistro & Grill 124 W. Hancock St. Traditional Asian cuisine, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese and Thai.

LD • BAR • $-$$$.

Mon-Thurs 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Closed 3:30 to 5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Bar hours Wed-Sat10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

(478) 452-2886.

China Garden 1948 N. Columbia St. Wings and Chinese.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 454-3449.

$: Entrees under $10 $$: $10-$20 $$$: Above $20

China Wings 3 1071 S. Wayne St. Wings and Chinese.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 453-3655.

Soul Master Barbecue & Lounge 451 N. Glynn St. American barbecue.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 453-2790.

Great Wall 1304 N. Columbia St. Chinese.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 452-5200.

BUFFETS/CAFES

Kai Thai 2600 N. Columbia St. Thai.

LD • BAR • $-$$$.

(478) 454-1237.

Kuroshima Japanese dining.

LD • BAR • $-$$$.

(478) 451-0245.

Lieu’s Peking Chinese.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 804-0083.

Little Tokyo Steakhouse Japanese, sushi.

LD • BAR • $-$$$.

(478) 452-8886.

Super China Buffet-style Chinese.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 451-2888.

BAKERIES The Goodie Gallery 812 N. Columbia St. Sandwiches, breads, salads, pastries and desserts.

BL • $-$$.

(478) 452-8080.

Ryals 135 S. Wayne St. Pastries and fresh-baked goods.

BL • $-$$.

(478) 452-0321.

Country Buffet 1465 SE Jefferson St. Southern buffet dining. LD • $-$$.

(478) 453-0434.

Grits 132 Hardwick St. Home-cooked Southern dining.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 453-2520.

Golden Corral 1913 N. Columbia St. Buffet-style American dining.

BLD • $-$$.

(478) 414-1344.

Judy’s Country Kitchen 1720 N. Columbia St. Buffet-style dining.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 414-1436.

Octagon Café Milledgeville Mall Sandwiches and salads.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 452-0588.

Shrimp Boat 911 S. Elbert St. Serving chicken and Seafood for more than 40 years.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 452-0559.

COFFEE HOUSES Blackbird Coffee 114 W. Hancock St. Coffee, teas, pastries, desserts and sandwiches.

BLD • $-$$.

(478) 454-2473.

BARBECUE Old Clinton BBQ 2645 N. Columbia St. Ribs, pulled pork, country sides.

Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 454-0080.

Paradise Country BBQ 111 Old Montgomery Highway, at the corner of Highway 441 N. and Log Cabin Rd. Pork, ribs, chicken.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 452-8008.

Jittery Joe’s 135 W. Hancock St. Coffee, teas, pastries, desserts and sandwiches.

BLD • $-$$.

(478) 452-7918.

Starbucks 2400 N. Columbia St. Coffee, teas pastries, desserts & sandwiches.

BLD • $-$$.

(478) 454-4040.

CONTEMPORARY Aubri Lane’s 114 S. Wayne St. Steaks, seafood, contemporary Southern dining. Tuesday-Saturday 5 p.m. to 10

Page 9

July 2011

facebook.com/theVille Let us know if we left something out! p.m. dinner; closed Sundays and Mondays. LD • BAR • $$-$$$.

(478) 454-4181.

Sylvia’s 2600 N. Columbia St. Pasta and seafood, Mediterraneaninspired. Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.

Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

LD • BAR • $$-$$$.

(478) 452-4444.

PIZZA/ITALIAN Amici Italian Café 101 W. Hancock St. Pizza, pasta and casual Italian dining.

Monday-Friday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.; Sundays 11 a.m. to midnight. LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 452-5003.

The Brick 136 W. Hancock St. Brick oven pizza, pasta, salads & hot wings. Mon - Sat 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 452-0089.

Mellow Mushroom 2588 N. Columbia St. Gourmet pizza and sandwiches.

Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sundays noon to 9 p.m.

LD • BAR • $$-$$$.

(478) 457-0144.

MEXICAN Barberito’s 146 S. Hancock St. Fast food, Southwestern-style burritos, salads, fajitas and tacos.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 451-4717.

El Amigo 2465 N. Columbia St. Fine Mexican dining.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 453-0027.

El Tequila 1830 N. Columbia St. Fine Mexican dining.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 414-1344.

Margaritas Mexican Grill 2400 N. Columbia St. Central Mexico cuisine.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 453-9547.

Puebla’s Mexican Restaurant 112 W. Hancock St. Mexican cuisine.

LD • BAR • $-$$.

(478) 452-1173.

SEAFOOD/FISH Bo Jo’s Café 3021 N. Columbia St. Seafood and steaks by the lake.

D • BAR • $$-$$$.

(478) 453-3234.

Bone Island Grill 208 Crooked Creek Marina Dr. Key West-style, Caribbean-inspired Southern seafood and steaks. Lunch Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dinner Wednesday-Thursday, 5 to 10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 4 to 12:30 a.m. Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

LD • BAR • $$-$$$.

(706) 485-9693.

Jackson’s on Sinclair 3065 N. Columbia St. Fish, steak and seafood by the lake.

D • BAR • $$-$$$.

(478) 453-9744.

STEAKHOUSES P.J.’s Steak House 3050 Highway 441 N. Steak and chicken by the lake.

LD • BAR • $$-$$$.

(478) 453-0060.

SPECIALTY WINGS AJ’s Hot Wings 2601 N. Columbia St., Suite 4 Hot wings, fish and burgers.

LD • $-$$.

(478) 804-0101.

SOUL FOOD Real Deal Grill and More 185 W. Andrews St. Wings, fish, ribs and chicken, etc.

LD • $-$$ (478) 804-0144.

Every Week

10% O Total O ff rd

Trivia Amici Italian Café 101 W. Hancock St. Mondays

Buffington’s Bar and Grill 120 West Hancock Street Wednesday

Mellow Mushroom 2588 N. Columbia St. Tuesdays

Pickle Barrel Café 1892 N. Columbia St. Thursdays

Karaoke Jackson’s at Sinclair Highway 441 N. at Lake Sinclair Fridays and Saturdays

Asian Bistro 124 E. Hancock St. Wednesdays

Buffington’s Bar & Grill 120 West Hancock St Tuesdays

Poker Jackson’s at Sinclair Highway 441 N. at Lake Sinclair Wednesdays

For more events in Milledgeville check out our A&E Calendar at the back of this issue!

LUNCH PUNCH CARDS BUY 6, GET 1 FREE

er With Col lege I

D

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL 2011 GRADUATES!

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Page 10

July 2011

IN THEATERS

By SARAH BETH ARIEMMA I remember very well the day my mother purchased the soft cover book titled, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” She picked it up from the book fair when I was in the third grade. She handed it to me and said that she had heard I would love it. I took one look at the cover and promptly put it down-declaring it a “boyish” book. My mother refused to acknowledge that it was about a boy wizard and decided to read it because I wouldn’t.

I got jealous. She couldn’t take her nose out of the book, and I realized that I too wanted to indulge in whatever she was reading. It sat, on her bedside table, and I would sneak into her bedroom and read it while she was doing laundry or making dinner.

“The Boy Who Lived” was the first chapter title. I was curious about what exactly had happened that made this little boy so very interesting. I only had to read the first few pages to realize with a sinking feeling that I had made a very poor mistake in allowing my mother to read this novel before me. The reason? I was hooked. And not the kind of hooked that you forget about when the television comes on, or your mother makes macaroni and cheese from scratch for dinner. The kind of hooked on a book that lasts while you are sitting in church, playing with friends outside or sitting in math class and trying desperately to read a novel under the desk and still look like you’re giving a damn about fractions.

When my mother finished the book two days later, she handed it back to me.

“Sarah Beth, I read this book, and I can promise you that you will love it. It is right up your alley. I don’t care that you think it is boyish. You won’t after you finish it.”

I shrugged outwardly, but inwardly I was elated. It was finally mine! It should have been mine all along, but as long as I was free to read, I didn’t care how I got my fix. I flew through the chapters, drunk on the fast-paced magic and characters that seemed as real to me as my sister across the hall.

Finishing the book was thrilling; with one small dilemma — I couldn’t WAIT to read the next one. I received books two and three for Christmas the following year, and Harry turned 12 and 13 respectively. I was nearly 11.

I started the sixth grade in September 2001, and remember vividly that Sept. 11 day and how horrific the entire situation was for the country. As a young person caught in between childhood and becoming a young lady, this event changed everyone’s life, including my own. Danger was no longer contained to the Harry Potter book series — it was in all of our lives now. We lived in fear of the next attack and wondered when we turned on the television what horrific sight would greet our eyes next. He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named became the Taliban in my own life and in all of our

Reflections on the end of an epic tale. lives.

When the fourth novel came out and Cedric Diggory died and we all found out that Voldemort was back, I sobbed because the knowledge that evil was real was all over the television and I knew how Harry felt, realizing that his own world was in jeopardy.

By that time, Harry and I were about the same age. We were both terrified of kissing other people and yet more afraid that it would never happen. We were facing social awkwardness at school and trying to stand up for the good in society.

With each book, a little more understanding about what the Harry Potter gang was going through made sense to me because we were all going through the same types of situations.

Each movie made the book even more real, and inspired more people to get involved in the best drug of all time: literature. Harry Potter novels are gateway drugs — they open the door to discover even more fantastic worlds brought to life by a woman who dared to be a little different.

Harry Potter and I were both 17 when the novels ended. I was about to enter my senior year of high school and about to embark on a completely new journey at college. Harry was about to save the world. Same difference.

I remember feeling when I turned the last page that 1.) I was never going to stop crying and 2.) I guess it was time to pack away my childish love of the books.

Except, I didn’t. The older I got, the more I realized those books weren’t childish at all — they were love letters to my generation that grew up a little faster than we should have, because we thought we would all be lost to terrorism. The books taught tolerance and the need to be strong even in a world that seemed so precarious.

Good won and triumphed over evil. I thought about Harry’s brave journey when the world got the news that Osama bin Laden was captured and killed because my own modern day Voldemort was gone too.

It’s like J.K. Rowling says in her final moment of perfection, “All was well.” And she’s right — and she’s wrong. We (her Harry Potter generation) are all grown up and starting our lives just like Harry and the gang did in the final book.

Someday I cannot wait to hand my children my well-read copy of the “Harry Potter” series.

We’ll talk about the stories together and the lessons they teach. We’ll believe in magic, and I’m going to see the same look that I know my mother saw in my own eyes. I’m going to always get a piece of my childhood back every time I see them crack the cover open.

It’s a priceless gift. Literature is a gift that transcends time, and the books and movies will continue to be love letters to any child growing

By LATOYA M. DAVIDSON The almost decade-long journey of “Harry Potter” as chronicled in the books and the movies has come to an end. For so many young and old, we’ve gotten caught up in the marvel and wonder of a world that we could actually imagine existing. I’ve read all of the books and have been diligent in seeing all the movies. I'm not a Potter fanatic, although I’m sure many of you know a few. I have a friend who has read every book in the series multiple times and knows its contents as if it were his favorite song.

I’d consider myself a casual Potter connoisseur.

It’s hard not to have gotten swept up in Potter Mania. When the books were still being published (from 1997 to 2007), it was a little disappointing to not have the movie releases coincide with the particular book. The first movie was released in 2000, the same year book four of the series was published.

However, a decade later, one can’t help but to marvel at the movie franchise that has grossed more than $2 billion in the box office and is now, according to Entertainment Weekly, the biggest franchise in Hollywood history (an honor that was previously held by the James Bond films). Do you remember the early concern and controversy over the bewitching undertones of the books and their possible effects on the minds of children? Alternately, do you also remember how it seemed to be the one children’s book series that adults and children alike loved? There were Potter parties, massive fan fiction written, and for a while Quidditch even seemed like it may become a real sport.

From the perspective of a public library librarian who was in the midst of the frenzy for the past decade, I am truly sorry to see it end. To this day our library has in storage multiple copies of each of the books in the series waiting to replace the well-loved and missing ones from the collection. Back in its heyday there was an entire shelf devoted just to the Harry Potter books and during the summers the shelf would sit empty. The excitement of books was echoed by that of the movies and the craze that came with the build up to each premiere.

Personally it was J.K. Rowling’s books that made me again interested in reading.

The first few novels I read on my PDA. The novelty of being able to read it on a handheld device was exciting. I’d curl up

in bed or grab a moment while waiting in a line and escape into that world. I inhaled it, its literary aroma wafting from the screen. Unlike other series before or since there was the excitement that came along with reading the books and then being able to see it all come to life in the movies. There is definitely something special when the original actors are present for a big budget eight-movie series.

The casting of the characters was spot on. Alan Rickman made the perfect Snape while Daniel Radcliff, inexperienced and unknown, the perfect Harry Potter. And one must admit, it isn’t often where a book series and its resulting movies are both deemed successful in the way the Harry Potter has.

Harry Potter is like lightning in a bottle. Even if witches and wizards aren’t your thing the impact of Harry Potter on the publishing, merchandising, and movie-making world is unique. As the sun finally sets at Hogwarts and the wands retired to their … wherever they’re stored, we look back at this moment in pop culture and anxiously await the final film. Like the memory of a loved one, the memory of this endearing book and movie series will live on. And even though J.K. Rowling says she has no plans to write more “Harry Potter” novels, those just now getting into the frenzy of Potter can enter the interactive online supplemental world of Pottermore.com, which will launch this October.

Don’t allow the magnitude of Harry Potter to be lost on you. It’s a series (in book and movies) that is great for the family. As I sit in the IMAX theater watching the final film, tissue firmly in my grip, I will think only of the spell that Harry Potter has cast over me and so many others for such a long time.

— LaToya M. Davidson is assistant director of the Twin Lakes Library System.

Page 11

July 2011 Real People, Real Opinions DRIVE THRU

HOT POTATO

OPEN UNTIL 1AM DAILY!

For this edition of Hot Potato, residents were asked just what exactly was up with the Casey Anthony trial.

Casey Anthony was acquitted of murdering her 2-yearold daughter, Caylee, though many feel the jury's decision was unjust.

Adeline Bramlett “As a mom, I'm outraged. It is nothing original, but justice has failed. There should be a law in place that makes it illegal not to report your child missing. I hope the law goes into effect soon. If my child is missing for even 10 seconds, my panic rises. I cannot imagine not reporting her gone.”

Cody Comvin “I think anybody who murdered their child should have been arrested and given the death penalty. I didn't watch the trial, but my girlfriend was very into the trial. We both think that she shouldn't have walked.

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Daniel Blackwell “I think she did it. But the prosecution tried to indict her with circumstantial evidence. They just didn't do their job correctly. Too much circumstantial evidence does not a crime make.”

Donna Ray “I think it is crap. How can you let somebody get away with that? It is almost like the jury was paid off. Basically, this case just let everybody know that murdering your child is legal. It is just careless.”

Mon. 3-7, Tues., Wed., Thurs. 10-4

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We’d love to hear your opinion on this subject or anything else you want to vent about!

Post your opinion on our wall at facebook.com/theVille

— Compiled by Sarah Beth Ariemma

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Page 12

July 2011

Q&A with Stephanie Westmoreland In her capacity as program coordinator for Georgia College’s Department of Continuing Education, a title she’s held since September 2009, Stephanie Westmoreland is responsible for overseeing the lineup of various camps, classes and programs offered through Continuing Education.

Westmoreland is a native of Milledgeville and a graduate of the Georgia College MAT program. Another one of the interesting aspects of her job is working as one of the co-producers for the annual Milledgeville Idol competition. Last year, a sold-out audience watched as Jon Peeler took home the Milledgeville Idol 2010 title. The next installment of the wildly-popular singing competition is slated for next month. It all culminates on the stage of Russell Auditorium, Friday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at the office of Continuing Education in Chappell Hall, The Union-Recorder and online. The Ville’ recently spoke with Westmoreland about the competition and her other job responsibilities, along with the local music and arts scene.

THE ‘VILLE: For those who may not know, what exactly does the Department of Continuing Education offer the community?

SW: Anyone can take the majority of our classes. The majority of our classes do have a fee, but you do not have to be enrolled within the academic part of the college.

We offer classes from anyone from kids to seniors.

THE ‘VILLE: Milledgeville Idol is presented each year through the Department of Continuing Education. How long have you been a co-producer for the event and when you started working with Idol, did you expect it to be as widely popular as it is today?

SW: I came in to Idol last year. Really the creators of it were Danielle Fields, and Phillip Joiner and Z-97. So this is my second year. The first year, I knew that there would be a lot of excitement about it because I had been told about previous years … but I never anticipated how much interest there would be.

THE ‘VILLE: What goes into putting together and producing a show like this each year?

SW: We start auditions in May, so I would say at the beginning of April [when advertising for auditions begins]. Of course, we’re always throwing ideas back and forth throughout the year. I will tell you, I couldn’t do it by myself. In the beginning stages, it’s me, Phillip Joiner, and we always have a guest judge, and since I’ve been involved it’s been a contestant from previous shows. This year it was Haley Steele [second place winner from the 2010 Idol]. At that point we start getting the television crew from the college involved. They’ve really been a big part in helping us put together the pieces and the story of each of the contestants.

THE ‘VILLE: How many contestants are there each year?

SW: This year there are nine. Last year we had 10. It really depends on what we see in the auditions.

THE ‘VILLE: How did the auditions go this year?

SW: It was a really good turnout this year. We were really surprised. … it’s just amazing how it always works out. … This year’s auditions — everybody was good. It was hard to choose this year, but that just makes us excited about next year. This year kind of rejuvenated [the audition process].

THE ‘VILLE: Are there any new additions to the show this year or changes that people should expect?

SW: Yes, but I’m not telling you [laughing]. We always have people that will come back from previous shows that come back for a special performance. We always try to make that different each year. It’d be easy to do the same layout each year, but we try to switch it up a little bit.

THE ‘VILLE: With this being your second year working on Idol, what would you say has been your favorite part of being involved with the planning of the show?

SW: It’s something different than I’ve ever done before.

I’ve never been in the performance world. I enjoy being backstage and helping get the pieces together to plan it…

I enjoy working with the people. It’s just amazing all the different personalities that we have. … There’s always people from different backgrounds that mesh together so well and create friendships. I guess that one common interest [music] kind of brings them together.

THE ‘VILLE: What about previous winners or contestants? Have there been any that have gone on to do other things musically since they were a part of the show?

SW: Yes. I know that Jon Peeler [2010 winner] performs frequently in town. He sang recently at the fireworks at the mall, and he performed at the Deep Roots Festival.

Haley Steele, who was the second place winner last year, is pursuing a record deal. She’s opened for Luke Bryan when he came to town. Of course, Jon Scott made an album. And Laurie Meeks has also made an album and performs frequently as well.

THE ‘VILLE: For you personally, what type of music do you listen to and what is it about music that interests you?

SW: Everything. I would say my favorite would be country, but I really, truly enjoy everything. It’s really fun when we sit down [with the Idol contestants] to figure out [what they’ll sing in the show]. We talk with them and see what their preferences are and they come up with a list of songs. We go through them together and see what fits. Because Phillip [Joiner, Idol co-producer] has the music background, he does a lot of that with them … helping them chose what’s best for them and the show.

THE ‘VILLE: Since this is an arts and culture publication, what do you think of the future of the arts in Milledgeville? What do you think is needed to really promote the local arts scene and take it to the next level?

SW: I’m from here, so I’ve seen where it was to where it is now. I think the downtown area has played into the

success of how well [the arts and culture scene] has been built up. I think there’s always room for improvement, but I think we’re bringing in a lot of people now that are interested in getting that voice out. I see that in the Deep Roots Festival. You see regular events now that reflect that — it’s not a once a year thing anymore, there are more annual events now.

THE ‘VILLE: What’s your favorite movie?

SW: “Lonesome Dove.”

THE ‘VILLE: What’s your favorite quote or favorite book?

SW: It’s not fiction. My background is in environmental education and teaching, so it’s a book called “Last Child in the Woods.” I guess it’s the most important book that I’ve read.

THE ‘VILLE: What is it that you enjoy most about your work here?

SW: I get to work with a variety of people, and I get to experience the whole community. After working with [Idol] I’ve learned so much more about Milledgeville and the talented people we have here.

THE ‘VILLE: Any additional thoughts or comments on Idol?

SW: It has sold out in previous years, so we do encourage people to get their tickets early. It’s really a fun show.

Everybody loves music, and it’s a really fun night.

July 2011

Page 13

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July 2011

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July 2011

Page 15

A&E CALENDAR WEEKLY MONDAY Trivia Night Amici Italian Café 101 W. Hancock St. 10:30 p.m.

TUESDAY Farmer’s Market Milledgeville Marketplace Downtown Milledgeville W. Hancock St. 4 to 7 p.m. weekly Jazz Night Amici Italian Café 101 W. Hancock St. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Bluegrass Jams PJ’s Steakhouse 3050 Highway 441 N. 7 to 9 p.m.

(478) 453-0060 Trivia Night Mellow Mushroom 2588 N. Columbia St. 8 p.m.

(478) 457-0144 WEDNESDAY Trivia Night Buffington’s 120 W. Hancock St. 8:30 p.m.

THURSDAY Team Trivia Night Pickle Barrel Café 1892 N. Columbia St. (478) 452-1960 Hookah Metropolis Café 138 N. Wayne St. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

(478) 452-0247 Live Music Asian Bistro & Grill 124 W. Hancock St. 11 p.m.

Live Music Mellow Mushroom 2588 N. Columbia St. 8 p.m.

Dallas Martin Band Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283

FRIDAY Jazz/Blues Night Aubri Lane’s 114 South Wayne St. 6 p.m.

August 12-13 Live Music Deepsteep Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283

Live Entertainment The Brick 136 W. Hancock St. Mark the Magic Man 6 p.m.

(478) 452-0089 EVENTS July July 29-30 Live Music Joe Olds Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August August 2 Live Music Oconee Regional Symphony Orchestra Audition Porter Hall, Room 203 7 p.m.

August 5 Art & Entertainment First Friday Downtown Milledgeville 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

August 8 Photography Photography Class with Danielle Fields Fields Photography & Framing Wayne Street 6 p.m.

(478) 451-9992 August 11 Live Music

August 18 Live Music Ronnie Pittman’s Birthday Bash Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August 19 Live Music Ying Yang Twins & Dem Franchize Boyz Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August 20 Live Music Dakota Rose Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August 21 Live Music Cowboy Church Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August 26 Live Music Rx Band Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August 27 Live Music Daniel Lee Band Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 August 27

Live Music Mikel Knight (Country rapper) Cowboys 2657 N. Columbia St. (478) 453-3283 ONGOING Art Exhibit Curtis Stewardson: “A Solo Show” Through September 21 Georgia College Museum (Focus Gallery) 221 North Clarke Street (478) 445-4391 Art Exhibit “The Surveyed Extent by Sandra Trujillo” Through September 21 Georgia College Museum (Entry Gallery) 221 North Clarke Street (478) 445-4391 Art Exhibit “Labor Behind the Veil” Old Governor’s Mansion Tours by appointment only (478) 445-4545 Art Exhibit “The Collections Tour” Old Governor’s Mansion Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

(478) 445-4545

E-mail your events to ndavis@unionrecorder.co m. Please include time, date, location, including address, cost and a contact phone number.