My sister, Dorothy, lives in Charleston, S.C. Actually, she lives in Mount Pleasant, which is just over the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, which connects Charleston to Mount Pleasant.
She called last week, saying there's a new barbecue restaurant, Ray's BBQ, in Mount Pleasant and she just had to go.
When she was standing at the counter, waiting to order, she noticed "Scrambled Dog."
When it was her turn, she said, "I didn't think anyone around here knew what a scrambled dog is."
The guy looked at her, and said, "I bet you're from Columbus."
It was Ray, the owner, who told her that he left Columbus when he was in his early 20s.
Ray told her that his under-the-counter sauce is as close to the one used by the legendary Chicken Comer. And his chili for the scrambled dog is as close to the equally legendary Lieutenant Stevens at Dinglewood.
Dorothy had the ribs the first time she went and said they were excellent. Last Saturday, she had the scrambled dog and told Ray that the chili is not as spicy as she'd like. He agreed, but said parents like their kids to have the scrambled dogs and that's why he keeps it pretty mild.
He told Dorothy he used to be in our sports department. Unfortunately, she didn't get his last name and I can't remember a Ray working with us.
Later on this week, I'm going to give Ray a call. I think he'll make a great story for our Life & Taste pages.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
George Michael concert set for July 31 in Atlanta's Philips Arena
I got an e-mail just now that British pop star George Michael will begin his first North American tour in 17 years on June 17 in San Diego.
The "25 Live Tour" comes to Atlanta's Philips Arena, 1 Philips Drive, at 8 p.m. July 31.
Tickets are $47, $87 and $152, and go on sale at 10 a.m. April 5.
Tickets will be available locally through area Publix grocery stores, by calling 404-249-6400 or by going to www.ticketmaster.com
I actually had tickets for his concert in Atlanta 17 years ago in Fulton County Stadium.
My friend Linda Szabo, who is the executive director of the March of Dimes, had gone on her phone and kept calling and calling until she got through and bought five tickets.
The afternoon of the concert, we met at her house. It was Linda; her sister, Laura; their brother, Bobby and his then-girlfriend. And me.
We all got into Linda's car and were on the way to the concert.
We parked and Linda started rummaging in her purse to get lipstick or a brush or something.
I think it was Laura who asked about the tickets.
Linda rummaged some more and turned on her brother, "This isn't funny." The tickets were nowhere to be found.
We found a phone and when she called home, her mother said the tickets were on the dining room table.
Poor Linda was soooo upset. The rest of us laughed it off. We had dinner somewhere and as we passed the stadium, Bobby, who was in the back, said, "Oh, I think he's singing that monkey song!"
That had us laughing.
Linda made some excuse to Ticketmaster and got her money back.
But ever since then, no matter if the event is in town, my mother and my siblings always ask, "Do you have the tickets?" In fact, we have to see them!
I bet the Szabo family does the same thing.
Linda hates to be reminded of this incident. But I had to, Linda.
The "25 Live Tour" comes to Atlanta's Philips Arena, 1 Philips Drive, at 8 p.m. July 31.
Tickets are $47, $87 and $152, and go on sale at 10 a.m. April 5.
Tickets will be available locally through area Publix grocery stores, by calling 404-249-6400 or by going to www.ticketmaster.com
I actually had tickets for his concert in Atlanta 17 years ago in Fulton County Stadium.
My friend Linda Szabo, who is the executive director of the March of Dimes, had gone on her phone and kept calling and calling until she got through and bought five tickets.
The afternoon of the concert, we met at her house. It was Linda; her sister, Laura; their brother, Bobby and his then-girlfriend. And me.
We all got into Linda's car and were on the way to the concert.
We parked and Linda started rummaging in her purse to get lipstick or a brush or something.
I think it was Laura who asked about the tickets.
Linda rummaged some more and turned on her brother, "This isn't funny." The tickets were nowhere to be found.
We found a phone and when she called home, her mother said the tickets were on the dining room table.
Poor Linda was soooo upset. The rest of us laughed it off. We had dinner somewhere and as we passed the stadium, Bobby, who was in the back, said, "Oh, I think he's singing that monkey song!"
That had us laughing.
Linda made some excuse to Ticketmaster and got her money back.
But ever since then, no matter if the event is in town, my mother and my siblings always ask, "Do you have the tickets?" In fact, we have to see them!
I bet the Szabo family does the same thing.
Linda hates to be reminded of this incident. But I had to, Linda.
The 2008-09 Columbus State University theater season
When my buddy April Waldron e-mailed me the Columbus State University department of theater's 2008-09 season, I had to blink.
I won't pretend to know a lot about theater, but I had never heard of any of these plays.
I really think that's a good thing, especially for the kids who are majoring in theater.
I mean, it's great to see shows that you know, but I always like new shows better. Well, OK, not always, but it's interesting to see what people are doing now.
The season kicks off with "Bat Boy: The Musical," 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9-11 and 2 p.m. Oct. 12 on the Mainstage. If you are a regular reader of supermarket tabloids, this is right up your alley. It's about a half-boy,half-bat who is found in a cave at Hope Falls, Va. He's adopted by a doctor's family and becomes educated. The problem is: Will the town accept him?
"Boy Meets Girl" is 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20-22 and 2 p.m. Nov. 23 on the Mainstage, and is a psychological thriller about a romance gone awry. A reporter goes on a blind date, who turns into a stalker. It's for adult audiences.
"The Cripple of Inishmaan" is 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12-14 and Feb. 20-21 and 2 p.m. Feb. 15 in the Studio. Written by Martin McDonagh, it's a dark comedy. When the residents of the small town of Inishmaan heard that a Hollywood producer is making a movie nearby, Billy, the cripple of Inishmaan, decides that he's going to be the next big star. The whole town watches to see what happens.
"Machinal" can be seen 7:30 p.m. April 2-4 and 2 p.m. April 5 on the Mainstage. It's a 1928 Broadway hit that is loosely based on the 1927 murder of Ruth Snyder, the first woman put to death in the electric chair.
The Family Series is new this season.
The first show is "Cows Don't Fly and Other Known Facts," 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11-12, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 and 2 p.m. Sept. 14 on the Mainstage. It's based on the popular children's books, "The Cow Who Wouldn't Come Down," "The Pig Who Ran a Red Light" and "The Goose Who Went Off in a Huff." It's about a world where extraordinary things happen on a regular basis.
The final show of the Family Series is "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day," which can be seen 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15-16, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 2 p.m. Jan. 18 on the Mainstage. It's about Alexander who is having the worst day imaginable. The author, Judith Viorst, adapted her book into a play and made it into a musical.
I e-mailed the season to a friend of mine, who had just one word for the choice of shows: "Awesome."
And this is a theater professional I trust.
I can't wait to see these shows.
You have several options for season tickets. Package A is the Mainstage shows of "Bat Boy," "Boy Gets Girl," "The Cripple of Inishmaan" and "Machinal" for $52. Package B is the Family Series of "Cows Don't Fly" and "Alexander" for $16. Package C is for both Mainstage and Family Series for $68.
Single tickets go on sale at 11 a.m. Sept. 9. The Family Series plays are $10, $5 for seniors, children, active military and CSU alumni. "Bat Boy" is $20, $18 for seniors, children, active military and CSU alumni. The dramas and comedies are $15, $13 for seniors, children, active military and CSU alumni.
Call 706-507-8444.
I won't pretend to know a lot about theater, but I had never heard of any of these plays.
I really think that's a good thing, especially for the kids who are majoring in theater.
I mean, it's great to see shows that you know, but I always like new shows better. Well, OK, not always, but it's interesting to see what people are doing now.
The season kicks off with "Bat Boy: The Musical," 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9-11 and 2 p.m. Oct. 12 on the Mainstage. If you are a regular reader of supermarket tabloids, this is right up your alley. It's about a half-boy,half-bat who is found in a cave at Hope Falls, Va. He's adopted by a doctor's family and becomes educated. The problem is: Will the town accept him?
"Boy Meets Girl" is 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20-22 and 2 p.m. Nov. 23 on the Mainstage, and is a psychological thriller about a romance gone awry. A reporter goes on a blind date, who turns into a stalker. It's for adult audiences.
"The Cripple of Inishmaan" is 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12-14 and Feb. 20-21 and 2 p.m. Feb. 15 in the Studio. Written by Martin McDonagh, it's a dark comedy. When the residents of the small town of Inishmaan heard that a Hollywood producer is making a movie nearby, Billy, the cripple of Inishmaan, decides that he's going to be the next big star. The whole town watches to see what happens.
"Machinal" can be seen 7:30 p.m. April 2-4 and 2 p.m. April 5 on the Mainstage. It's a 1928 Broadway hit that is loosely based on the 1927 murder of Ruth Snyder, the first woman put to death in the electric chair.
The Family Series is new this season.
The first show is "Cows Don't Fly and Other Known Facts," 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11-12, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 and 2 p.m. Sept. 14 on the Mainstage. It's based on the popular children's books, "The Cow Who Wouldn't Come Down," "The Pig Who Ran a Red Light" and "The Goose Who Went Off in a Huff." It's about a world where extraordinary things happen on a regular basis.
The final show of the Family Series is "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day," which can be seen 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15-16, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 17 and 2 p.m. Jan. 18 on the Mainstage. It's about Alexander who is having the worst day imaginable. The author, Judith Viorst, adapted her book into a play and made it into a musical.
I e-mailed the season to a friend of mine, who had just one word for the choice of shows: "Awesome."
And this is a theater professional I trust.
I can't wait to see these shows.
You have several options for season tickets. Package A is the Mainstage shows of "Bat Boy," "Boy Gets Girl," "The Cripple of Inishmaan" and "Machinal" for $52. Package B is the Family Series of "Cows Don't Fly" and "Alexander" for $16. Package C is for both Mainstage and Family Series for $68.
Single tickets go on sale at 11 a.m. Sept. 9. The Family Series plays are $10, $5 for seniors, children, active military and CSU alumni. "Bat Boy" is $20, $18 for seniors, children, active military and CSU alumni. The dramas and comedies are $15, $13 for seniors, children, active military and CSU alumni.
Call 706-507-8444.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Tiffany McGinnis
Years ago, I met Tiffany McGinnis. She was still in high school and was involved in the scene downtown at the old Human Experience Theatre. These kids would hang out after shows at T.H.E. Theatre's rave parties. She was an interesting young woman.
It turned out that I'd known her mother, Callie McGinnis a long time. Callie is the librarian of the Schwob Memorial Library on the Columbus State University campus.
Tiff grew up and moved to London.
I got this e-mail from Callie this morning that I wanted you to see.
"I want to share Tiffy's latest masterpiece with you — an animated video that tells a tale that I discovered years ago while tracing family roots in Scotland. It just goes to show you that young people do sometimes pay attention to the family stories that you tell them! The video is entertainment and history combined.
"It's a folk tale about a legendary character who has the same name as one of my North Carolina Scots ancestors — Dushee Shaw. The folk tale tells of a dwarf named Dushee Shaw who lived on the Isle of Jura, in the Southern Hebrides, in the late 16th century. The tale has been passed down for many generations.
"To view the 8-minute video, go to http://www.drawpictures.co.uk/ (this is the agency that's representing Tiff). Click on Young Guns — then on Tiff's icon. You'll see the clickable icon for "Black Fairy" (top left corner).
"In London Tiffy's still doing her music — under her stage name Crazy Girl. However, she's evolved into a multi-media artist. For this video she did the script, plus all the drawings and the animation; she composed the music and she's the narrator! She got a real piper to play the background bagpipes!"
I hope you go to the Web site and check out "The Black Fairy." It's a really innovative video. Very entertaining and lots of fun.
This girl's gonna go places.
I won't be surprised if she's nominated for an Oscar one day for one of these.
It turned out that I'd known her mother, Callie McGinnis a long time. Callie is the librarian of the Schwob Memorial Library on the Columbus State University campus.
Tiff grew up and moved to London.
I got this e-mail from Callie this morning that I wanted you to see.
"I want to share Tiffy's latest masterpiece with you — an animated video that tells a tale that I discovered years ago while tracing family roots in Scotland. It just goes to show you that young people do sometimes pay attention to the family stories that you tell them! The video is entertainment and history combined.
"It's a folk tale about a legendary character who has the same name as one of my North Carolina Scots ancestors — Dushee Shaw. The folk tale tells of a dwarf named Dushee Shaw who lived on the Isle of Jura, in the Southern Hebrides, in the late 16th century. The tale has been passed down for many generations.
"To view the 8-minute video, go to http://www.drawpictures.co.uk/ (this is the agency that's representing Tiff). Click on Young Guns — then on Tiff's icon. You'll see the clickable icon for "Black Fairy" (top left corner).
"In London Tiffy's still doing her music — under her stage name Crazy Girl. However, she's evolved into a multi-media artist. For this video she did the script, plus all the drawings and the animation; she composed the music and she's the narrator! She got a real piper to play the background bagpipes!"
I hope you go to the Web site and check out "The Black Fairy." It's a really innovative video. Very entertaining and lots of fun.
This girl's gonna go places.
I won't be surprised if she's nominated for an Oscar one day for one of these.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
"Dancing With the Stars"
I kind of thought that Adam Corolla would go home last night. But somehow, he was saved.
It was Penn Jillette who is headed back home to Las Vegas. On "Good Morning America" this morning, he said he wanted to get back home and back to doing his show.
I did think Monica Seles would go home. And she did. As good as she was on the tennis court, she was a stiff on the dance floor.
But it was kind of poignant when she said being on the show was her prom. She was playing tennis and never got to do all the things teenage girls do. And she got to dress up, wear make-up and have her hair done.
Well, that doesn't mean she has to stop! She looked great.
So far, my favorite, Jason Taylor, looked terrific. Kristi Yamaguchi also is a contender to win this season.
I don't know if Marlee Matlin will be able to ride her "I'm profoundly deaf" thing the whole way. What she's doing is amazing. I mean, I can hear, and I can't dance as well as she does.
But I'm going with the football player.
It was Penn Jillette who is headed back home to Las Vegas. On "Good Morning America" this morning, he said he wanted to get back home and back to doing his show.
I did think Monica Seles would go home. And she did. As good as she was on the tennis court, she was a stiff on the dance floor.
But it was kind of poignant when she said being on the show was her prom. She was playing tennis and never got to do all the things teenage girls do. And she got to dress up, wear make-up and have her hair done.
Well, that doesn't mean she has to stop! She looked great.
So far, my favorite, Jason Taylor, looked terrific. Kristi Yamaguchi also is a contender to win this season.
I don't know if Marlee Matlin will be able to ride her "I'm profoundly deaf" thing the whole way. What she's doing is amazing. I mean, I can hear, and I can't dance as well as she does.
But I'm going with the football player.
Historic Columbus Foundation
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation does a great job, but did you know that our very own Historic Columbus Foundation is seven years older?
That's right. The HCF is 42 years old and the Georgia Trust is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year with its annual meeting in Columbus next weekend.
It means that for the past year, the HCF staff have been busy planning the meeting.
The last time the state meeting was in Columbus was 2000. It was at that meeting that MidTown Inc. was born.
"Greg Paxton, the former head of the Georgia Trust and Teresa Tomlinson and John Sheftall had a casual conversation" about the next big area that needed attention in Columbus, said former HCF executive director Susan Lawhorne.
Tomlinson now heads MidTown Inc., while historian Sheftall is a MidTown resident.
When HCF was asked to host the meeting again this year, Lawhorne decided the theme would be "Discover Columbus: MidTown, Uptown . . . Rivertown!"
"We're always trying to promote MidTown," said Carroll Hudson, the HCF director of development and marketing. "There is so much happening in MidTown."
Next weekend's Spring Ramble isn't just about MidTown, though. There will be rambles through downtown Columbus and Bibb City's RiverMill Event Centre.
In Columbus the designated historic areas are the original downtown Historic District, High Uptown, Dinglewood, Wynn's Hill–Overlook, Peacock Woods–Dimon Circle, Hillcrest–Wildwood Circle, Wynnton Village and Liberty Heritage.
"Columbus is such a great site," said Traci Clark, the Georgia Trust's director of communications. "You have so many historic buildings and houses. It's a beautiful town. We're looking forward to coming back to celebrate our 35th anniversary."
"A lot of the local ones got their start first," Clark said. "In 1973, we saw a need for a statewide organization. One of the early projects was helping to save the Fox Theatre here in Atlanta.
"A lot of times, saving an important building in the area is the impetus for organizing these groups," Clark said.
In Columbus, HCF began after the success of saving the Springer Opera House.
Hudson says it takes a lot of planning and a lot of volunteers to organize an event like this.
"We have to find the best sites to showcase our city," Hudson said. "We have about 60 volunteers working."
In the eight years since the Georgia Trust was here last, she was astounded to find all the new sites, including the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, the Columbus State University fine arts division's downtown headquarters, the renovation of the Eagle/Phenix Mills and RiverMill Event Centre, the Columbus Public Library and the 21st Condominiums.
"In a way, it's a great way to show off these homes and real estate," Hudson said.
IF YOU GO
What: "The Spring Ramble: Discover Columbus: Midtown, Uptown . . . Rivertown!," the annual meeting of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation
April 4: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. registration at the Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road. Midtown Ramble, tours of the Columbus Museum and the museum's Olmstead Garden, Wynnton Arts Academy Library, Butt-Banks House, Hillcrest, the Illges-Norman House, the Carson McCullers House and the Midtown 21st Condominiums, 1-4 p.m. Cocktails at Dinglewood, dinner at Gordonido and dessert at the Wynn House, 6-9:30 p.m.
April 5: Registration at 8:30 a.m.-noon, RiverMill Event Centre, 3715 First Ave. Annual meeting and preservation awards ceremony, 9 a.m.-noon, RiverMill Event Centre. Lunch & Learn, includes tours of the former historic cotton mill at the RiverMill Event Centre, noon. Uptown Rumble, with tours of the Eagle-Phenix Condos, W.C. Bradley Co. Museum, Springer Opera House, Columbus State University River Park Campus, the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus and the Ma Rainey House, 1-5 p.m. 35th anniversary reception and dinner, Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 6 p.m.
April 6: Brunch in Historic Linwood Cemetery, with tours of the cemetery, 9-11 a.m.
Tickets: $205 for the whole weekend; $155 for Saturday-Sunday; $85 for Friday only; $95 for Saturday only; $27 for the Sunday brunch; $25 for students (no meals included); $20 for children 13 and younger (no meals included)
Registration deadline: 5 p.m. April 4, Columbus Public Library
Joining the Georgia Trust: $35; $50 for families
Information: 706-322-0756
That's right. The HCF is 42 years old and the Georgia Trust is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year with its annual meeting in Columbus next weekend.
It means that for the past year, the HCF staff have been busy planning the meeting.
The last time the state meeting was in Columbus was 2000. It was at that meeting that MidTown Inc. was born.
"Greg Paxton, the former head of the Georgia Trust and Teresa Tomlinson and John Sheftall had a casual conversation" about the next big area that needed attention in Columbus, said former HCF executive director Susan Lawhorne.
Tomlinson now heads MidTown Inc., while historian Sheftall is a MidTown resident.
When HCF was asked to host the meeting again this year, Lawhorne decided the theme would be "Discover Columbus: MidTown, Uptown . . . Rivertown!"
"We're always trying to promote MidTown," said Carroll Hudson, the HCF director of development and marketing. "There is so much happening in MidTown."
Next weekend's Spring Ramble isn't just about MidTown, though. There will be rambles through downtown Columbus and Bibb City's RiverMill Event Centre.
In Columbus the designated historic areas are the original downtown Historic District, High Uptown, Dinglewood, Wynn's Hill–Overlook, Peacock Woods–Dimon Circle, Hillcrest–Wildwood Circle, Wynnton Village and Liberty Heritage.
"Columbus is such a great site," said Traci Clark, the Georgia Trust's director of communications. "You have so many historic buildings and houses. It's a beautiful town. We're looking forward to coming back to celebrate our 35th anniversary."
"A lot of the local ones got their start first," Clark said. "In 1973, we saw a need for a statewide organization. One of the early projects was helping to save the Fox Theatre here in Atlanta.
"A lot of times, saving an important building in the area is the impetus for organizing these groups," Clark said.
In Columbus, HCF began after the success of saving the Springer Opera House.
Hudson says it takes a lot of planning and a lot of volunteers to organize an event like this.
"We have to find the best sites to showcase our city," Hudson said. "We have about 60 volunteers working."
In the eight years since the Georgia Trust was here last, she was astounded to find all the new sites, including the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, the Columbus State University fine arts division's downtown headquarters, the renovation of the Eagle/Phenix Mills and RiverMill Event Centre, the Columbus Public Library and the 21st Condominiums.
"In a way, it's a great way to show off these homes and real estate," Hudson said.
IF YOU GO
What: "The Spring Ramble: Discover Columbus: Midtown, Uptown . . . Rivertown!," the annual meeting of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation
April 4: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. registration at the Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road. Midtown Ramble, tours of the Columbus Museum and the museum's Olmstead Garden, Wynnton Arts Academy Library, Butt-Banks House, Hillcrest, the Illges-Norman House, the Carson McCullers House and the Midtown 21st Condominiums, 1-4 p.m. Cocktails at Dinglewood, dinner at Gordonido and dessert at the Wynn House, 6-9:30 p.m.
April 5: Registration at 8:30 a.m.-noon, RiverMill Event Centre, 3715 First Ave. Annual meeting and preservation awards ceremony, 9 a.m.-noon, RiverMill Event Centre. Lunch & Learn, includes tours of the former historic cotton mill at the RiverMill Event Centre, noon. Uptown Rumble, with tours of the Eagle-Phenix Condos, W.C. Bradley Co. Museum, Springer Opera House, Columbus State University River Park Campus, the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus and the Ma Rainey House, 1-5 p.m. 35th anniversary reception and dinner, Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 6 p.m.
April 6: Brunch in Historic Linwood Cemetery, with tours of the cemetery, 9-11 a.m.
Tickets: $205 for the whole weekend; $155 for Saturday-Sunday; $85 for Friday only; $95 for Saturday only; $27 for the Sunday brunch; $25 for students (no meals included); $20 for children 13 and younger (no meals included)
Registration deadline: 5 p.m. April 4, Columbus Public Library
Joining the Georgia Trust: $35; $50 for families
Information: 706-322-0756
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra and the Cleveland Orchestra
Giancarlo Guerrero is the guest conductor who will be leading the Cleveland Orchestra when it gets here Sunday for a 4 p.m. concert in the Bill Heard Theatre, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway.
We're very lucky to get this orchestra in town. It's considered to be one of the "Big Five" orchestras in the country, along with New York, Chicago, Boston and Philadelphia.
The program includes Sierra's "Fandangos," Ravel's "Suite No. 2 from "Daphnis and Chloe" and Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition." Tickets are $55, $65 and $75.
I spoke to Guerrero on the phone while the orchestra was in Florida. They performed in St. Petersburg Monday and have several concerts in Miami, before heading here on Sunday.
He was funny and warm. He laughed a lot. Guerrero said he began as a percussionist in the back of the orchestra, but he dropped one stick and moved to the front.
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra conductor, George Del Gobbo, is also very warm and funny. When I asked him for a quote about the Cleveland Orchestra, George very graciously sent me something and ended with this plea:
"Please don't forget to remind people that they can warm up their 'symphony ears'
by attending the Columbus Symphony concert the night before. Then they can
compare the difference $60,000,000 a year makes in the sound of an orchestra."
When I asked if it was true that the Cleveland Orchestra's budget was that much, he said, "I don't know for a fact what the Cleveland Orchestra budget is, but I'd bet it's in that neighborhood. The CSO budget is around $800,000. I would guess they spend between $10-$15 million a year on orchestra salaries alone."
Wow!
That means our orchestra, which in my opinion, is one of the best in the Southeast, can really compete with the Cleveland Orchestra.
If you haven't seen our orchestra lately, I suggest you go to the concert Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in the Heard Theatre.
Violinist Rachel Barton Pine will be the guest soloist. The program includes "Variations on a Theme by Haydn" and "Symphony No. 3" by Brahms and "Violin Concerto" by Dvorak.
Even the ticket prices are a bargain — $21-$35; $10 student rush tickets 30 minutes before the concert; $5 for children 11 and younger.
Call 706-256-3612 for either concert.
We're very lucky to get this orchestra in town. It's considered to be one of the "Big Five" orchestras in the country, along with New York, Chicago, Boston and Philadelphia.
The program includes Sierra's "Fandangos," Ravel's "Suite No. 2 from "Daphnis and Chloe" and Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition." Tickets are $55, $65 and $75.
I spoke to Guerrero on the phone while the orchestra was in Florida. They performed in St. Petersburg Monday and have several concerts in Miami, before heading here on Sunday.
He was funny and warm. He laughed a lot. Guerrero said he began as a percussionist in the back of the orchestra, but he dropped one stick and moved to the front.
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra conductor, George Del Gobbo, is also very warm and funny. When I asked him for a quote about the Cleveland Orchestra, George very graciously sent me something and ended with this plea:
"Please don't forget to remind people that they can warm up their 'symphony ears'
by attending the Columbus Symphony concert the night before. Then they can
compare the difference $60,000,000 a year makes in the sound of an orchestra."
When I asked if it was true that the Cleveland Orchestra's budget was that much, he said, "I don't know for a fact what the Cleveland Orchestra budget is, but I'd bet it's in that neighborhood. The CSO budget is around $800,000. I would guess they spend between $10-$15 million a year on orchestra salaries alone."
Wow!
That means our orchestra, which in my opinion, is one of the best in the Southeast, can really compete with the Cleveland Orchestra.
If you haven't seen our orchestra lately, I suggest you go to the concert Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in the Heard Theatre.
Violinist Rachel Barton Pine will be the guest soloist. The program includes "Variations on a Theme by Haydn" and "Symphony No. 3" by Brahms and "Violin Concerto" by Dvorak.
Even the ticket prices are a bargain — $21-$35; $10 student rush tickets 30 minutes before the concert; $5 for children 11 and younger.
Call 706-256-3612 for either concert.
Monday, March 24, 2008
The Doo-Nanny
One year, I had to work on a Saturday. The metro editor sent me to Pittsview, Ala., to cover the Do-Nanny.
I'd known Frank Turner for years and years and never went to his folk art festival. I wrote about it year after year, but never went.
I was a little nervous because being in rural Alabama makes me that way. People are very nice. I just keep thinking I'm going to find some huge snake in my path.
I had a blast out at that year's Do-Nanny. And there were no snakes anywhere.
This year, Frank has turned over the event to Butch Anthony. This year's 12th annual Outsiders Outside Doo-Nanny has moved to Butch's spread in Seale, Ala. You probably noticed he slightly changed the name by adding one more "o."
It's 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday at 41 Poorhouse Road. Yes, Butch lives on Poorhouse Road!
As always, there will be artists selling their goods. This year, there will be more than 40 of them. Music will be by the Mad Tea Party of Asheville; Adam Bork from Marfa, Texas; Jake Fussell from Oxford, Miss., and the Steps from Austin.
Because it is Anthony, there will be some unusual events, including Evil Boll-Weevil, who is allegedly the late Evil Knievel's third cousin. He will try to jump 29 Tonka trucks on a jet-powered bicycle.
There will be a solar display and a worm-powered outhouse. Another Butch touch!
He promises free guided tours of his Museum of Wonder. You're in luck. It usually costs a quarter to get into the Museum of Wonder. What a deal.
Food will be provided by the Possum Trot BBQ and seafood by the Food Pimp of Seaside, Fla.
At dark, the Doo-Nanny Short Movie Fest will begin, featuring acclaimed filmmaker Les Blank's new documentary on tea.
For those so inclined, there will be free camping. As you probably guessed, I will not be one of those camping. I don't want to tempt fate. If I'm camping, then there will surely be snakes somewhere.
Then on Sunday, there will be biscuits for breakfast and a live Mexican wrestling championship bout. What?
Like I said, it's Butch.
To get the Doo-Nanny, take U.S. 431 west to Seale. Look for two water towers. As you get close to the water towers, turn left on Ala. 169. The first right will be Poorhouse Road. Follow the signs. If you get lost, blame Tim Chitwood. Tim and Butch have been buddies since they were kids. Tim's been out to Butch's place lots of times.
I've been invited, but I've never been out there. I mean, I have seen some things in his Museum of Wonder, and he's got this huge rattlesnake in a jar full of formaldehyde. Sure, it's not alive. But it was once and Butch found it on his property.
But Saturday, with that many people out there, even the snakes will be hiding. I think. I'll see you out there.
For more information, call Anthony at 334-855-9547.
I'd known Frank Turner for years and years and never went to his folk art festival. I wrote about it year after year, but never went.
I was a little nervous because being in rural Alabama makes me that way. People are very nice. I just keep thinking I'm going to find some huge snake in my path.
I had a blast out at that year's Do-Nanny. And there were no snakes anywhere.
This year, Frank has turned over the event to Butch Anthony. This year's 12th annual Outsiders Outside Doo-Nanny has moved to Butch's spread in Seale, Ala. You probably noticed he slightly changed the name by adding one more "o."
It's 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday at 41 Poorhouse Road. Yes, Butch lives on Poorhouse Road!
As always, there will be artists selling their goods. This year, there will be more than 40 of them. Music will be by the Mad Tea Party of Asheville; Adam Bork from Marfa, Texas; Jake Fussell from Oxford, Miss., and the Steps from Austin.
Because it is Anthony, there will be some unusual events, including Evil Boll-Weevil, who is allegedly the late Evil Knievel's third cousin. He will try to jump 29 Tonka trucks on a jet-powered bicycle.
There will be a solar display and a worm-powered outhouse. Another Butch touch!
He promises free guided tours of his Museum of Wonder. You're in luck. It usually costs a quarter to get into the Museum of Wonder. What a deal.
Food will be provided by the Possum Trot BBQ and seafood by the Food Pimp of Seaside, Fla.
At dark, the Doo-Nanny Short Movie Fest will begin, featuring acclaimed filmmaker Les Blank's new documentary on tea.
For those so inclined, there will be free camping. As you probably guessed, I will not be one of those camping. I don't want to tempt fate. If I'm camping, then there will surely be snakes somewhere.
Then on Sunday, there will be biscuits for breakfast and a live Mexican wrestling championship bout. What?
Like I said, it's Butch.
To get the Doo-Nanny, take U.S. 431 west to Seale. Look for two water towers. As you get close to the water towers, turn left on Ala. 169. The first right will be Poorhouse Road. Follow the signs. If you get lost, blame Tim Chitwood. Tim and Butch have been buddies since they were kids. Tim's been out to Butch's place lots of times.
I've been invited, but I've never been out there. I mean, I have seen some things in his Museum of Wonder, and he's got this huge rattlesnake in a jar full of formaldehyde. Sure, it's not alive. But it was once and Butch found it on his property.
But Saturday, with that many people out there, even the snakes will be hiding. I think. I'll see you out there.
For more information, call Anthony at 334-855-9547.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Broadway in Atlanta
Broadway Across — Atlanta announced its new season, which includes blockbuster hits as well as a brand-new show.
One of the shows, "Jersey Boys," is a Tony Award-winning show that has been selling out on Broadway since it opened in 2005. It will close the season with four weeks of familiar songs by the Four Seasons, May 27-June 21, 2009.
All shows are at the Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. N.E. Performances are 8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday.
The 2008-09 season opens the four-week run of "Wicked." This tells the story of two girls who meet in the Land of Oz. One has emerald green skin and is smart, fiery and misunderstood; the other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. One becomes the Wicked Witch of the West and the other Glinda the Good Witch. When the tour was in Atlanta in 2006, it set box office records and sold out in record time. Dates are Oct. 8-Nov. 2.
"Ain't Misbehavin' " is on its 30th anniversary tour and features the music of Fats Waller. It stars 2003 "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard and Frenchie Davis, the 2003 "American Idol" contestant and star of "Rent" on Broadway. Dates are Nov. 18-23.
"A Chorus Line," about dancers auditioning to be cast in a new Broadway show can be seen March 3-8, 2009.
"Happy Days," a new musical based on the ABC hit television show with pals Richie, Potsie, Ralph Malph and The Fonz, can be seen March 31-April 5, 2009.
"Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" is based on the 1968 movie about a flying car. Dates are April 21-26, 2009.
"Jersey Boys," the musical revue based on the story of how four boys from New Jersey — Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi — became the Four Seasons. It can be seen May 27-June 21, 2009.
Season tickets are $105-$399. Subscriptions can be ordered by calling 800-278-4447 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday or by going to www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com
Single tickets go on sale six-to-eight weeks before the show.
One of the shows, "Jersey Boys," is a Tony Award-winning show that has been selling out on Broadway since it opened in 2005. It will close the season with four weeks of familiar songs by the Four Seasons, May 27-June 21, 2009.
All shows are at the Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree St. N.E. Performances are 8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday.
The 2008-09 season opens the four-week run of "Wicked." This tells the story of two girls who meet in the Land of Oz. One has emerald green skin and is smart, fiery and misunderstood; the other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. One becomes the Wicked Witch of the West and the other Glinda the Good Witch. When the tour was in Atlanta in 2006, it set box office records and sold out in record time. Dates are Oct. 8-Nov. 2.
"Ain't Misbehavin' " is on its 30th anniversary tour and features the music of Fats Waller. It stars 2003 "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard and Frenchie Davis, the 2003 "American Idol" contestant and star of "Rent" on Broadway. Dates are Nov. 18-23.
"A Chorus Line," about dancers auditioning to be cast in a new Broadway show can be seen March 3-8, 2009.
"Happy Days," a new musical based on the ABC hit television show with pals Richie, Potsie, Ralph Malph and The Fonz, can be seen March 31-April 5, 2009.
"Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" is based on the 1968 movie about a flying car. Dates are April 21-26, 2009.
"Jersey Boys," the musical revue based on the story of how four boys from New Jersey — Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi — became the Four Seasons. It can be seen May 27-June 21, 2009.
Season tickets are $105-$399. Subscriptions can be ordered by calling 800-278-4447 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday or by going to www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com
Single tickets go on sale six-to-eight weeks before the show.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
High Heels Poker Tour
A few years ago, my brother decided he wanted to vacation in Las Vegas with his sisters. So we all went except our sister Nancy. I can't remember why she didn't go.
But four of the Okamoto siblings went to Vegas.
The first thing we did when we got out of the plane and into McCarran International Airport was check out the slot machines right in the middle of the place. Fred said for luck, we should all play one of them. We said OK. When I reached for my wallet, it wasn't there.
I went back to the plane, and there it was, right where it fell out when I went into my huge bag to get something.
Thank goodness Fred wanted to play the slots!
We had a great time while we were there.
When we got back, a friend asked if I played any card games. My sister Dorothy, who had not gone back home yet to Charleston, snickered. "She can't add," she told my friend.
It's the truth. I could never play blackjack just because I can't add unless I was counting on my fingers or had a piece of paper or a calculator.
And I can't make heads or tails out of poker. I swear I used to watch those celebrity poker games on Bravo. I still don't get it.
So I had to laugh when I got this e-mail about the High Heels Poker Tour. It's the first all-women's poker tour on the East Coast and there's going to be a tournament March 29 in the Seminole Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Fla. Yes, that's where Fred was a police officer. And that's the very same hotel where Anna Nicole Smith died last year.
I've been to the casino and lost a few bucks there.
If you're a woman and a poker player and want a chance to play in the World Series of Poker, here's your chance.
It's a no limit Texas Hold 'Em tournament. The winner will get a seat in the World Series of Poker Main Event, hotel accommodations, airfare and spending money or $10,000 in cash.
It will cost $450 to register.
For more information, go to www.highheelspokertour.com
But four of the Okamoto siblings went to Vegas.
The first thing we did when we got out of the plane and into McCarran International Airport was check out the slot machines right in the middle of the place. Fred said for luck, we should all play one of them. We said OK. When I reached for my wallet, it wasn't there.
I went back to the plane, and there it was, right where it fell out when I went into my huge bag to get something.
Thank goodness Fred wanted to play the slots!
We had a great time while we were there.
When we got back, a friend asked if I played any card games. My sister Dorothy, who had not gone back home yet to Charleston, snickered. "She can't add," she told my friend.
It's the truth. I could never play blackjack just because I can't add unless I was counting on my fingers or had a piece of paper or a calculator.
And I can't make heads or tails out of poker. I swear I used to watch those celebrity poker games on Bravo. I still don't get it.
So I had to laugh when I got this e-mail about the High Heels Poker Tour. It's the first all-women's poker tour on the East Coast and there's going to be a tournament March 29 in the Seminole Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Fla. Yes, that's where Fred was a police officer. And that's the very same hotel where Anna Nicole Smith died last year.
I've been to the casino and lost a few bucks there.
If you're a woman and a poker player and want a chance to play in the World Series of Poker, here's your chance.
It's a no limit Texas Hold 'Em tournament. The winner will get a seat in the World Series of Poker Main Event, hotel accommodations, airfare and spending money or $10,000 in cash.
It will cost $450 to register.
For more information, go to www.highheelspokertour.com
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Dancing with the Stars
I think I'm obsessed with this show because I love dancing. OK, I love to watch good dancers.
I'm not any good, but I can tell a good dancer from a bad one just by watching their technique or lack of one.
Since this show started, after watching the "stars" dance once, I've been able to pick the eventual winners. Except twice — the first one when the soap opera girl, Kelly Monaco won (John Hurley should have) and when Emmitt Smith won (I, of course, picked Mario Lopez).
This year, I missed the men dance because I was out to dinner with my co-workers. But I saw enough when they showed the recap. I'm still sticking with Jason Taylor.
I did watch last night's show when the women danced. And Kristi Yamaguchi looked the best.
I may have to change my mind.
I'll wait until I see one more dance.
I'm not any good, but I can tell a good dancer from a bad one just by watching their technique or lack of one.
Since this show started, after watching the "stars" dance once, I've been able to pick the eventual winners. Except twice — the first one when the soap opera girl, Kelly Monaco won (John Hurley should have) and when Emmitt Smith won (I, of course, picked Mario Lopez).
This year, I missed the men dance because I was out to dinner with my co-workers. But I saw enough when they showed the recap. I'm still sticking with Jason Taylor.
I did watch last night's show when the women danced. And Kristi Yamaguchi looked the best.
I may have to change my mind.
I'll wait until I see one more dance.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
School plays
I always get requests that I do stories about high school and middle school plays.
I always decline.
"Why? This is going to be a great production," is what I hear from the teachers and parents. Oh, my goodness, the parents and grandparents that I hear from!
I'm sure these shows are all wonderful. It's just that I don't have time. I barely have time to do what I'm doing now.
The arts is getting to be big business in Columbus.
Besides the Springer Opera House and the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, we've got the Liberty Theatre, Columbus State University's fine arts complex and now the Chattahoochee Shakespeare Co. I'll say it again: I barely have time to cover all of these events.
We always put the shows that the Family Theatre does. That's one organization I really haven't had time to cover. And I'd cover their shows before I do high school and middle school plays.
In fact, the Family Theatre is producing "Our Town" right now. It can be seen at 7:30 p.m. March 21-22 and March 28-29 in the Rose Hill Baptist Church, 2100 Ham
ilton Road.
This is Jean Morris and Ed Summey and Mr. and Mrs. Webb. It's been a while since Ed's been in a show in Columbus, so it's great to see him back on stage. And Jean is married to my very first editor. Ralph Morris was my first editor here at the Ledger-Enquirer 33 years ago. They moved back to Columbus after he retired as publisher of the newspaper in Highlands, N.C.
The play by Thornton Wilder is set in Grover's Corners in a 1930-era theater. The stage manager creates the show that tells the history of the town from 1901-13.
Tickets are $10, $8 for students and seniors; $30 for a family.
Call 706-536-8052
I truly do not have anything against student productions. It's just that if I do a story about one, I'd have to do a story about each one. And again, I simply don't have the time to do my job and then cover high school and middle school shows. I just will not do it.
Brookstone School does a big musical every spring.
This year, it's “Damn Yankees.” You can see it at 8 p.m. March 27-29 in the Turner Fine Arts Center on the Brookstone campus, 440 Bradley Park Drive. Tickets are $12, $10 for students in advance. They are $14, $12 for students at the door. They go on sale Thursday.
This photo features Frank Schley as the devilish Mr. Applegate and Rachel Martz
as his sexy sidekick Lola.
Call 706-324-1392
I always decline.
"Why? This is going to be a great production," is what I hear from the teachers and parents. Oh, my goodness, the parents and grandparents that I hear from!
I'm sure these shows are all wonderful. It's just that I don't have time. I barely have time to do what I'm doing now.
The arts is getting to be big business in Columbus.
Besides the Springer Opera House and the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, we've got the Liberty Theatre, Columbus State University's fine arts complex and now the Chattahoochee Shakespeare Co. I'll say it again: I barely have time to cover all of these events.
We always put the shows that the Family Theatre does. That's one organization I really haven't had time to cover. And I'd cover their shows before I do high school and middle school plays.
In fact, the Family Theatre is producing "Our Town" right now. It can be seen at 7:30 p.m. March 21-22 and March 28-29 in the Rose Hill Baptist Church, 2100 Ham
ilton Road.This is Jean Morris and Ed Summey and Mr. and Mrs. Webb. It's been a while since Ed's been in a show in Columbus, so it's great to see him back on stage. And Jean is married to my very first editor. Ralph Morris was my first editor here at the Ledger-Enquirer 33 years ago. They moved back to Columbus after he retired as publisher of the newspaper in Highlands, N.C.
The play by Thornton Wilder is set in Grover's Corners in a 1930-era theater. The stage manager creates the show that tells the history of the town from 1901-13.
Tickets are $10, $8 for students and seniors; $30 for a family.
Call 706-536-8052
I truly do not have anything against student productions. It's just that if I do a story about one, I'd have to do a story about each one. And again, I simply don't have the time to do my job and then cover high school and middle school shows. I just will not do it.
Brookstone School does a big musical every spring.This year, it's “Damn Yankees.” You can see it at 8 p.m. March 27-29 in the Turner Fine Arts Center on the Brookstone campus, 440 Bradley Park Drive. Tickets are $12, $10 for students in advance. They are $14, $12 for students at the door. They go on sale Thursday.
This photo features Frank Schley as the devilish Mr. Applegate and Rachel Martz
as his sexy sidekick Lola.
Call 706-324-1392
Monday, March 17, 2008
Deli Day
I love Deli Day!
This year's is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. April 3 at Temple Israel, 1617 Wildwood Ave.
As usual, it features a quarter-pound Kosher corned beef sandwich, coleslaw, pickle, potato chips and iced tea for $9. Homemade desserts are $3.50 each.
As much as I loved the corned beef, it's the desserts I go for every year.
It's to die for. Really.
And the money goes to benefit the hungry in the Wynnton area who are served through the houses of worship in that area.
Up until last year, I just went and ate and socialized with everyone.
Last year, my friend Gail Greenblatt said I needed to see what all those ladies (and some gentlemen) did to pull this off. I can tell you that after making countless sandwiches, I was happy to sit down and eat.
I'm doing it again this year.
If you want more information, call 706-323-1617.
This year's is 11 a.m.-2 p.m. April 3 at Temple Israel, 1617 Wildwood Ave.
As usual, it features a quarter-pound Kosher corned beef sandwich, coleslaw, pickle, potato chips and iced tea for $9. Homemade desserts are $3.50 each.
As much as I loved the corned beef, it's the desserts I go for every year.
It's to die for. Really.
And the money goes to benefit the hungry in the Wynnton area who are served through the houses of worship in that area.
Up until last year, I just went and ate and socialized with everyone.
Last year, my friend Gail Greenblatt said I needed to see what all those ladies (and some gentlemen) did to pull this off. I can tell you that after making countless sandwiches, I was happy to sit down and eat.
I'm doing it again this year.
If you want more information, call 706-323-1617.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Thunder in the Valley
A couple of years ago, on a Saturday of Thunder in the Valley, I went outside to get the paper.
I saw our neighbor, Gladys Davis, standing at her fence, looking up in the sky.
I asked if she were OK, and she said she remembered the sound of the planes.
Duh! Of course, she did. She grew up in England and as a young woman heard the planes fly over London.
I had left the front door open and when I walked up to the door, my mother was standing there.
She too, was remembering the sound of the planes. She was half-way around the world from England, but she was remembering the bombing of Tokyo.
It's funny how we remember sounds.
Sometimes when I hear helicopters, I think of the summer when I was 16 and working at the Kue Hospital on Okinawa.
I made the mistake one day of being near the entrance of the emergency room. All of sudden, the doors flew open and I could hear the helicopter and wounded soldiers being wheeled in. These were seriously wounded young men. I never spent my break near there again.
So Thunder in the Valley is a fun event for young and old in Columbus and the area.
But for two ladies from a different generation, it's a reminder of World War II. And the hardships they suffered.
I saw our neighbor, Gladys Davis, standing at her fence, looking up in the sky.
I asked if she were OK, and she said she remembered the sound of the planes.
Duh! Of course, she did. She grew up in England and as a young woman heard the planes fly over London.
I had left the front door open and when I walked up to the door, my mother was standing there.
She too, was remembering the sound of the planes. She was half-way around the world from England, but she was remembering the bombing of Tokyo.
It's funny how we remember sounds.
Sometimes when I hear helicopters, I think of the summer when I was 16 and working at the Kue Hospital on Okinawa.
I made the mistake one day of being near the entrance of the emergency room. All of sudden, the doors flew open and I could hear the helicopter and wounded soldiers being wheeled in. These were seriously wounded young men. I never spent my break near there again.
So Thunder in the Valley is a fun event for young and old in Columbus and the area.
But for two ladies from a different generation, it's a reminder of World War II. And the hardships they suffered.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Mistakes
I hate it when we make mistakes in the To Do calendars.
Organizations who can least afford to buy advertising in our newspaper count on our calendars to get the word out that they've got something going on that you and I can go to.
For one reason or another, we didn't get the word that some events had changed.
I hope those of you who bought tickets will see this one in particular. The performances of "An Inheritance of Murder!," the first murder mystery by the Columbus Mystery Theatre, have been canceled. The shows were originally scheduled for tonight and Saturday. Refunds are available by calling 706-536-4054.
The second one is next week, so I hope you just penciled in the date and can make it to the "real" date. The date for the Dan Tepfer Trio with Shirantha Beddage concert has been changed. The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Studio Theatre, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway. The program includes "Oxygen," "Sweet Talk" and "Cornelius" by Tepfer and "The Pier," "Skippin' the Grits" and "Against Time" by Beddage. Additional selections will be announced from the stage. Tickets are $5. 706-256-3612.
I apologize to the Columbus Mystery Theatre and to CSU's Schwob School of Music.
As frustrating as this may be to you, it's more so for me. We are addressing the problem here at work. We'll always make boo-boos — everyone does — but perhaps not so often.
Organizations who can least afford to buy advertising in our newspaper count on our calendars to get the word out that they've got something going on that you and I can go to.
For one reason or another, we didn't get the word that some events had changed.
I hope those of you who bought tickets will see this one in particular. The performances of "An Inheritance of Murder!," the first murder mystery by the Columbus Mystery Theatre, have been canceled. The shows were originally scheduled for tonight and Saturday. Refunds are available by calling 706-536-4054.
The second one is next week, so I hope you just penciled in the date and can make it to the "real" date. The date for the Dan Tepfer Trio with Shirantha Beddage concert has been changed. The concert will be at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Studio Theatre, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway. The program includes "Oxygen," "Sweet Talk" and "Cornelius" by Tepfer and "The Pier," "Skippin' the Grits" and "Against Time" by Beddage. Additional selections will be announced from the stage. Tickets are $5. 706-256-3612.
I apologize to the Columbus Mystery Theatre and to CSU's Schwob School of Music.
As frustrating as this may be to you, it's more so for me. We are addressing the problem here at work. We'll always make boo-boos — everyone does — but perhaps not so often.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
I'm sick!
I feel yucky.
I stayed home Tuesday and Wednesday and dragged myself to work today.
I feel worse today than I did yesterday!
Maybe it's just work I'm allergic to?
I'm going home in a few. I hope I'll feel better tomorrow and come in ready to go back to work!
I stayed home Tuesday and Wednesday and dragged myself to work today.
I feel worse today than I did yesterday!
Maybe it's just work I'm allergic to?
I'm going home in a few. I hope I'll feel better tomorrow and come in ready to go back to work!
Monday, March 10, 2008
The Climate Change
In the past year, Jens Rasmussen has given his slide show about the climate change for more than 20 groups. Jens is the resident artist at the Springer Opera House has appeared in "A Christmas Carol" and "To Kill a Mockingbird," and is currently in "Carousel." He'll tackle the role of a priest accused of inappropriate behavior in "Doubt" next month.I was talking to my niece, Jessica, about Jens and "An Inconvenient Truth."
Her response?
"Duh! People should know that. They don't need to see a movie."
Well, Jess, a lot of people don't believe that there is a problem.
Jens applied to the Climate Project for further training after he saw the movie. A year later, he was in Nashville with 999 other people who thought like he did.
He was trained by a lot of scientists and activists as well as the movie's narrator, Al Gore.
Here's what Gore wrote: “Jens Rasmussen is an outstanding example of the millions of Americans who have been energized by the call to action on the climate crisis. We are so pleased that he’s made a serious commitment to this challenge by coming to Nashville to become part of this unprecedented grassroots effort. Jens will be spending the next year making presentations all over the country, discussing how individuals and businesses, schools and other organizations can be a major part of the solution to the growing crisis of global warming.”
Last year, Jens presented the slide show at the Columbus Public Library to a small, but very interested group of local residents.
"Lots has changed in Georgia in a year," Rasmussen said. The drought, of course, has been a big topic the past yea
r, and is becoming a more and more urgent problem, he said.So when the Go Green Committee of the Columbus State University Student Government Association asked him to present the slide show, he gladly said yes. He will present it twice on Tuesday.
Nicole de Vries, a CSU graduate business student, is an SGA senator who began the Go Green movement on campus, and asked Rasmussen to participate. She admits never having seen "An Inconvenient Truth" until she attended a "Two Percent Solution" conference where the
Academy Award-winning documentary was shown.
Like Jens, after watching the movie, she was motivated to do something.
Nicole and a committee of CSU students, staff and professors are trying to make the campus more energy efficient.
"We have recycling bins for paper, but the paper is thrown away," she complains. "There's one container for cans."
She thinks there should be recycling bins in the cafeteria especially, and in each building on campus as well as in each dormitory.
"It's really exciting," Rasmussen said of the Go Green committee's efforts, which will include tip sheets for students on how to make life more sustainable on campus.
"We're starting at the bottom and working up," Nicole said. "We're hoping the board of Regents will listen."
Jens made his presentation in New Orleans last fall and he said the experience was "sobering." People who think New Orleans is back to normal by just watching footage of Mardi Gras have no idea that entire neighborhoods are still ghost towns, he said.
I don't know what you'll be doing tomorrow, but I plan to see one of Jens' presentations. I hope to see you there.
What: Actor and activist Jens Rasmussen will present a slide show on global warming as part of Columbus State University's Student Government Association's Go Green initiative for March. Includes informational displays by the Columbus Water Works, the Georgia Forestry Commission, CSU SGA
When: Noon and 1 p.m. Tuesday
Where: CSU's Davidson Student Center auditorium on main campus
Tickets: Free
Information: Nicole de Vries at 706-507-8835
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Hiss Columbus
Yes, I was a judge at this year's Second Hiss Columbus "pageant."
And I lived through it.
I even touched a snake. That doesn't mean I'm still not afraid of them. I still have an unreasonable fear of those slithery animals.
This is the winning reptile, Zeus, a boa that is owned by Michael Elston. I forget what kind of boa it is.
It is huge. You can't see it in the picture, but I know that snake was looking at me. It did flick its tongue at me several times.
When Michael brought Zeus to the judges' table, I did reach out to touch him. My fellow judge, Miller Robson, told his 4-year-old daughter that it felt like "Mommy's purse."
I wouldn't go that far.
Ed Bostic was the head judge because this is his second time judging.
I was relieved that I didn't have to get real close to them. This is about the closest I want to get to a boa constrictor. Michael asked if I wanted to hold him.
Why would I want to hold a 50-lb. snake?!
In fact, I asked a little girl who was showing her lizard to us if she'd rather have a dog. She said she wanted a dog, but she got a lizard.
What kind of parent would rather give their child a lizard instead of a dog?
And then one boy showed up with battle scars. His snake actually bit him and wouldn't let go. He had bite marks on his hand.
I get bitten by Chipper all the time, but I'd rather get bitten by my little Chihuahua than a snake.
Jill Carroll, the education director at Oxbox Meadows Environmental Center, put this whole thing together. Seriously, it is a great event. It shows children that they should not be afraid of reptiles and educates him about the poisonous vs. non-poisonous reptiles. And to respect them.
There were lots of people there. In fact, Jill said that was the biggest crowd they ever had.
Some of the reptiles weren't doing so well because it was cold, but I guess that's why the owners were holding them.
One lizard was gorgeous. The owner said he was cold so his color was a little dull. He came back after he'd been out in the sun and he was this brilliant yellow and green — as pretty as a lizard can be, I'm guessing.
Anyway, I'm glad I went and if Jill wants me back next year, I'll be there.
Friday, March 7, 2008
The Weather Channel
I was checking the local weather this morning on the Weather Channel and there was Samantha Mohr.
She was Miss Columbus and became Miss Georgia 1985. She was highly touted as a contestant and was predicted to win. I remember Richard Hyatt going to Atlantic City that year to cover the pageant. That was the first and only time the Ledger-Enquirer covered Miss America.
Alas, I don't think she made it into the Top 10.
Mohr worked in Houston, Phoenix and San Francisco as a meteorologist before moving to Atlanta.
I guess I wasn't paying attention because she's been back in Georgia since last summer. I went to the Weather Channel Web site and it said she does the weekends, so that's probably why I didn't notice her. I don't check the weather on weekends because I don't worry about what to wear to work!
Welcome back, Samantha!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Christian won!
Christian Siriano, the 21-year-old twit won "Project Runway" last night.
Maybe I shouldn't call him names. But he was just so annoying. I do have to admit his clothes looked more haute couture than the others.
I was hoping Rami would win. I loved his clothes, especially the evening gowns. I don't know why they kept harping about his color choices. At least he used color.
Jillian's clothes were probably the most wearable. I would actually wear some of her clothes. Of course, they'd have to be cut way down from those 6-foot-tall model sizes.
I love this series. I've watched it from the very beginning. And I'm one who pooh-poohs reality shows.
Next? "Top Chef." OK, so I like those two shows and "Dancing With the Stars." Three reality shows. I gave up on the fourth ("So You Think You Can Dance") last season.
I still want to see Ralph Wimberly on "Project Runway." He is the most wonderful costume designer the Springer Opera House has ever had. And he made several dresses for several Miss Georgia winners that were incredible.
And I want to see Austin Scott on "Top Chef." I think he would kick butt on that show.
Tell me what you thought of last night's outcome. And who else should be on some of these shows.
Maybe I shouldn't call him names. But he was just so annoying. I do have to admit his clothes looked more haute couture than the others.
I was hoping Rami would win. I loved his clothes, especially the evening gowns. I don't know why they kept harping about his color choices. At least he used color.
Jillian's clothes were probably the most wearable. I would actually wear some of her clothes. Of course, they'd have to be cut way down from those 6-foot-tall model sizes.
I love this series. I've watched it from the very beginning. And I'm one who pooh-poohs reality shows.
Next? "Top Chef." OK, so I like those two shows and "Dancing With the Stars." Three reality shows. I gave up on the fourth ("So You Think You Can Dance") last season.
I still want to see Ralph Wimberly on "Project Runway." He is the most wonderful costume designer the Springer Opera House has ever had. And he made several dresses for several Miss Georgia winners that were incredible.
And I want to see Austin Scott on "Top Chef." I think he would kick butt on that show.
Tell me what you thought of last night's outcome. And who else should be on some of these shows.
"The Vagina Monologues"
Back in 2003, Donna Baudoin, now Donna Antrim, directed "The Vagina Monologues" for the first time in Columbus.
The play by Eve Ensler is a series of monologues about women talking about their vaginas. It's funny and sad at the same time.
Ensler began V-Day (the "V" stands for victory, Valentine and vagina) and allows theaters to present the play on one day without having to pay royalties. All of the money from ticket sales goes to a local organization.
This year, Troy Heard's Chattahoochee Shakespeare Co. will present "The Vagina Monologues" at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. March 22 at The Loft, 1032 Broadway. The money will go to the Sexual Assault Support Center.
Tickets are $20.
V-Day has raised more than $50 million since Ensler began it 10 years ago. It's a movement to end violence against women and girls and raise money and awareness through these benefit performances of "The Vagina Monologues." Last year, more than 3,000 V-Day events took place around the world.
For tickets, call 706-596-8141 or go to www.theloft.com
For more on V-Day, go to www.vday.org
The play by Eve Ensler is a series of monologues about women talking about their vaginas. It's funny and sad at the same time.
Ensler began V-Day (the "V" stands for victory, Valentine and vagina) and allows theaters to present the play on one day without having to pay royalties. All of the money from ticket sales goes to a local organization.
This year, Troy Heard's Chattahoochee Shakespeare Co. will present "The Vagina Monologues" at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. March 22 at The Loft, 1032 Broadway. The money will go to the Sexual Assault Support Center.
Tickets are $20.
V-Day has raised more than $50 million since Ensler began it 10 years ago. It's a movement to end violence against women and girls and raise money and awareness through these benefit performances of "The Vagina Monologues." Last year, more than 3,000 V-Day events took place around the world.
For tickets, call 706-596-8141 or go to www.theloft.com
For more on V-Day, go to www.vday.org
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Missing my favorite stores
One of my sisters had a birthday last Saturday and that's when I realized how much I missed the Disney store at Peachtree Mall.
Nancy absolutely loves Winnie the Pooh. I'm more of the Tinkerbell/Piglet girl. But Nancy is crazy about Pooh.
Buying birthday and Christmas gifts used to be so easy. All I had to do is make a trip to the mall and buy the new Pooh merchandise.
Now I discover the Sanrio store is gone! Where am I going to find all my Hello Kitty stuff now?
Going back to the Disney store, another reason I loved going in there was to see my friends, Jeff and Jennifer Camp. I'd known those two kids since they were in high school and just beginning to date. The next thing we knew, they were a committed couple as they finished high school and then Columbus State University.
Jeff was a technical theater geek and Jen was the singer. And what a singer!
One year, the music department did "Die Fledermaus." Joseph Golden, the opera professor, asked me to be part of the opera. When I quit laughing, he explained that he wanted to me to be background scenery. That, I could do. I just put on this gorgeous emerald green gown and sat in the box that was built on the stage. Russ Wall was the other guest in the opposite box.
It was fun. I had a great "date" named Andre, who was a violinist. He was on injured reserve, so he couldn't play in the orchestra. I'm sure his friends in the orchestra were laughing at him because he had to sit with an old woman for a couple of hours.
Jen played Adele and sang one of the most famous arias in the world, "Mein Herr Marquis." You may know it as "Adele's Laughing Song." You can count on a Miss Georgia contestant mangling the song every year. Jen sang it beautifully, of course.
Jeff and Jen moved to Orlando to work at Walt Disney World, and they've been doing very well there, both professionally and personally.
I was so happy last fall when I found out that they were expecting their first baby. And really happy to hear that they had a boy last Wednesday. His name is Carson Gregory and I haven't seen a photo yet, but I'm sure I'll get one soon.
So congratulations, kids! I can't wait to see him in person.
Nancy absolutely loves Winnie the Pooh. I'm more of the Tinkerbell/Piglet girl. But Nancy is crazy about Pooh.
Buying birthday and Christmas gifts used to be so easy. All I had to do is make a trip to the mall and buy the new Pooh merchandise.
Now I discover the Sanrio store is gone! Where am I going to find all my Hello Kitty stuff now?
Going back to the Disney store, another reason I loved going in there was to see my friends, Jeff and Jennifer Camp. I'd known those two kids since they were in high school and just beginning to date. The next thing we knew, they were a committed couple as they finished high school and then Columbus State University.
Jeff was a technical theater geek and Jen was the singer. And what a singer!
One year, the music department did "Die Fledermaus." Joseph Golden, the opera professor, asked me to be part of the opera. When I quit laughing, he explained that he wanted to me to be background scenery. That, I could do. I just put on this gorgeous emerald green gown and sat in the box that was built on the stage. Russ Wall was the other guest in the opposite box.
It was fun. I had a great "date" named Andre, who was a violinist. He was on injured reserve, so he couldn't play in the orchestra. I'm sure his friends in the orchestra were laughing at him because he had to sit with an old woman for a couple of hours.
Jen played Adele and sang one of the most famous arias in the world, "Mein Herr Marquis." You may know it as "Adele's Laughing Song." You can count on a Miss Georgia contestant mangling the song every year. Jen sang it beautifully, of course.
Jeff and Jen moved to Orlando to work at Walt Disney World, and they've been doing very well there, both professionally and personally.
I was so happy last fall when I found out that they were expecting their first baby. And really happy to hear that they had a boy last Wednesday. His name is Carson Gregory and I haven't seen a photo yet, but I'm sure I'll get one soon.
So congratulations, kids! I can't wait to see him in person.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
RiverCenter announces its 2009-09 season
When I found out that the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts was no longer doing business with Adam Epstein's Theatre Council, the Chicago-based company that handled the Broadway in Columbus series, I thought it was a big mistake.
I mean, Adam had access to a lot of shows because he was booking them for multiple theaters around the country.
After I found out what the RiverCenter has in store for next season, I have to eat my words.
It is a fantastic season!
"It's a good season," said RiverCenter executive director Enoch Morris. "I'm excited."
So am I.
In seasons past, the Broadway series was announced in mid-June, months after the International, Variety and Discovery series were announced. This year, it's the first to be announced.
Morris made the announcement a few minutes ago before the start of "Ring of Fire."
Patrons at tonight's “Ring of Fire” show will find order forms were placed on each season subscriber's seat. New subscribers could also buy their tickets, though their seat assignments will not be given out until the current season subscribers turn in their forms.
The season opens Nov. 17-18 with "The Pajama Game," the Tony Award-winning show about a feisty employee in a factory that makes pajamas. Songs include "Steam Heat," "Hey There" and "Hernando's Hideaway."
"Nunsense," Dec. 2-3, is about the Little Sisters of Hoboken who discover their cook, Sister Julia, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters. They need money to bury five of them, so they put on a variety show. It stars Sally Struthers.
"Ain''t Misbehavin'," Jan. 20-21, is on its 30th anniversary tour. The 1978 hit stars 2003 "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard and 2003 contestant Frenchie Davis, who recently finished a run on Broadway in "Rent." It's based on songs by Fats Waller.
"The 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," March 9-10, is the Tony Award-winning musical about six young people competing in a spelling bee.
The season ends with "The Drowsy Chaperone," May 5-6. It's a new musical about a man who buys his favorite cast album for a 1928 hit called "The Drowsy Chaperone," about a celebrity bride and her wedding day. While listening to the album, the musical magically comes to life.
When the Springer Opera House did "Ain't Misbehavin' " in 1994, it became my favorite musical there. Of course, the cast was fabulous and the director (Mercedes Ellington) divine. No other production could touch that one. So, of course, I'm curious to see the 30th anniversary of the show.
Columbus State University did "Nunsense" in 1992 and it was the funniest thing I'd seen in a long time. I still giggle thinking about Nancy Shores as the mother superior.
The two new musicals are ones I want to see. And if Harry Connick Jr. was in the tour of "The Pajama Game," I'll be first in line to buy tickets. But he's not.
Let me know what you think of this line-up.
TICKET INFORMATION
Season tickets: $160.50-$200.50, on sale now
Single tickets: Go on sale six weeks before each show
Information: 706-256-3612
I mean, Adam had access to a lot of shows because he was booking them for multiple theaters around the country.
After I found out what the RiverCenter has in store for next season, I have to eat my words.
It is a fantastic season!
"It's a good season," said RiverCenter executive director Enoch Morris. "I'm excited."
So am I.
In seasons past, the Broadway series was announced in mid-June, months after the International, Variety and Discovery series were announced. This year, it's the first to be announced.
Morris made the announcement a few minutes ago before the start of "Ring of Fire."
Patrons at tonight's “Ring of Fire” show will find order forms were placed on each season subscriber's seat. New subscribers could also buy their tickets, though their seat assignments will not be given out until the current season subscribers turn in their forms.
The season opens Nov. 17-18 with "The Pajama Game," the Tony Award-winning show about a feisty employee in a factory that makes pajamas. Songs include "Steam Heat," "Hey There" and "Hernando's Hideaway."
"Nunsense," Dec. 2-3, is about the Little Sisters of Hoboken who discover their cook, Sister Julia, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters. They need money to bury five of them, so they put on a variety show. It stars Sally Struthers.
"Ain''t Misbehavin'," Jan. 20-21, is on its 30th anniversary tour. The 1978 hit stars 2003 "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard and 2003 contestant Frenchie Davis, who recently finished a run on Broadway in "Rent." It's based on songs by Fats Waller.
"The 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee," March 9-10, is the Tony Award-winning musical about six young people competing in a spelling bee.
The season ends with "The Drowsy Chaperone," May 5-6. It's a new musical about a man who buys his favorite cast album for a 1928 hit called "The Drowsy Chaperone," about a celebrity bride and her wedding day. While listening to the album, the musical magically comes to life.
When the Springer Opera House did "Ain't Misbehavin' " in 1994, it became my favorite musical there. Of course, the cast was fabulous and the director (Mercedes Ellington) divine. No other production could touch that one. So, of course, I'm curious to see the 30th anniversary of the show.
Columbus State University did "Nunsense" in 1992 and it was the funniest thing I'd seen in a long time. I still giggle thinking about Nancy Shores as the mother superior.
The two new musicals are ones I want to see. And if Harry Connick Jr. was in the tour of "The Pajama Game," I'll be first in line to buy tickets. But he's not.
Let me know what you think of this line-up.
TICKET INFORMATION
Season tickets: $160.50-$200.50, on sale now
Single tickets: Go on sale six weeks before each show
Information: 706-256-3612
Monday, March 3, 2008
Little visitors
Today, Gail Cantrell brought her long-haired Chihuahua, Teddy, to the newspaper. To my surprise, she also had Petey, Teddy's baby boy. Teddy is black and tan, but Petey is fawn and white. And so cute. And tiny.
My little Chipper, who is also a long-haired Chi, is a giant compared to those two boys.
Gail's 10-year-old daughter, Kacey, is using Cody Cheyenne as her stage name, and has been going to auditions all over the country. Here's Kacey with Petey.
Perhaps Cody Cheyenne will be the next big thing.
We've had local people on television, including Shari Parry, who was a star in Lifetime's "Any Day Now." Pacelli grad Chris Elwood started a new season of "Flipping Out" last week.
We'll find out by the end of the month if she got a role in two movies.
And I'll let you know which project she'll end up doing.
So break a leg, Cody Cheyenne.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Yikes!
It doesn't pay to get sick or even just take a day off.
I had some problems with my contacts Thursday night and when I got up Friday morning, my left eye was swollen shut. I looked like I'd been crying for a week. But with just one eye.
It was unsightly, so I called in and said wasn't coming in. I wasn't sick, just vain.
I did a phone interview from home on Friday and did another interview at the Liberty Theatre Saturday afternoon. Fortunately, by late afternoon Friday, my face looked normal.
That meant I had to come in today.
But that's OK because it's quiet and I got a lot done.
I read my e-mails and I discovered that Jill Carroll of the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center wants me to judge the Hiss Columbus Pageant.
That's where the "Yikes!" comes in.
I'm deathly afraid of snakes. But I told Jill that I would fight my fears and be a judge.
After all, it's probably safer than my stint judging the Little Miss Columbus Pageant a few weeks ago!
The Hiss Columbus Pageant is March 9. She promised that I wouldn't have to get up-close-and-personal with any of the snakes.
Come on by and see how I'm holding up.
The "pageant" is part of the Eighth Annual Reptile Festival at noon-4 p.m. You can see native and exotic snakes, lizards, turtles and alligators. Tickets are $2.
Call 706-697-4090 for more information and if you want to enter your reptile.
I had some problems with my contacts Thursday night and when I got up Friday morning, my left eye was swollen shut. I looked like I'd been crying for a week. But with just one eye.
It was unsightly, so I called in and said wasn't coming in. I wasn't sick, just vain.
I did a phone interview from home on Friday and did another interview at the Liberty Theatre Saturday afternoon. Fortunately, by late afternoon Friday, my face looked normal.
That meant I had to come in today.
But that's OK because it's quiet and I got a lot done.
I read my e-mails and I discovered that Jill Carroll of the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center wants me to judge the Hiss Columbus Pageant.
That's where the "Yikes!" comes in.
I'm deathly afraid of snakes. But I told Jill that I would fight my fears and be a judge.
After all, it's probably safer than my stint judging the Little Miss Columbus Pageant a few weeks ago!
The Hiss Columbus Pageant is March 9. She promised that I wouldn't have to get up-close-and-personal with any of the snakes.
Come on by and see how I'm holding up.
The "pageant" is part of the Eighth Annual Reptile Festival at noon-4 p.m. You can see native and exotic snakes, lizards, turtles and alligators. Tickets are $2.
Call 706-697-4090 for more information and if you want to enter your reptile.
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