Visitors
Blog >
Something for Everyone this Weekend!
You name it and I bet you'll be able to find it this weekend…at least where fun stuff is concerned! Even your dog is going to love getting out and enjoying life. Because finally there's an event that is just for best 4-legged friends! It’s the 2nd Annual Relay for Dogs this Saturday (March 27) from 9:00am-2:00pm at the CSU Women's Soccer Facility (Main Campus). It’s a fun-filled doggie day in the park that includes food, a pet photographer, games, activities, demonstrations, exercise and it all benefits a great cause…the American Cancer Society. If you are planning to go and have already registered, remember you MUST have written proof of your dog’s current rabies vaccination, otherwise they won’t let you in. This is just for the health of all the pups that attend. Registration fee, which is $15 in advance and $20 on gets your dog a bandana and a cool goodie bag. Non-canines are admitted free! (706) 888.4857 www.relayfordogs.com
Could there be a better combination than shopping for really cool stuff in springtime? The Springer Opera has hit a home-run with this event called “Spring Market” because it’s all about shopping…and helping out the Springer and it’s productions, theatre academy and the preservation of this National Historic Landmark. They’ll have lots of vendors set up in the Grand Lobby of the Springer with items like jewelry from Silpada Designs, Cookie Lee Jewelry, Broadway Jewelry & Beads, soaps, candles, monogrammed ware, baskets and more. This is a great thing to do on your lunch hour Friday because they’ll even have box lunches available for purchase. It all takes place Friday (March 26) from 11:00am-2:00pm and 4:00-7:00pm. (706) 327.3688 www.springeroperahouse.org
Here's something kids in the family will enjoy…it's the 2nd Annual Children's Open House with CSU's Schwob School of Music. They'll have everything from an instrument petting zoo, musical games to live musical performances. It all happens at RiverCenter's Legacy Hall on Saturday and admission is free. (706) 649.7225
This one has fun written all over it! It’s Columbus’ first ever food & wine event called “Toast of the Town!” It’s a symphony of food and wine that includes tasting of a variety of fine wines paired with foods ranging from excellent cheeses to decadent chocolates…and this all benefits the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. They’re bringing in vintners from across the country as well as regional chefs, restaurants and vendors and a silent auction that’ll have everything from a wide variety of wines, trips and treasures related to food and wine. And there will be a MarketPlace where you can purchase food and wine specialty items. Admission is $75, but remember…it's a fundraiser! (706) 256.3640 www.csoga.org
If you’ve got a bad case of spring fever and need to get out and take a bike ride, this one’s for you! It’s the annual Wheels O’Fire Century Cycle Tour & Mountain Bike Trail that winds through Harris County this Saturday and Sunday. What’s great about this is you can be a complete beginner or an advanced cyclist because they offer rides starting at 26 miles, then moving up to 45, 68 or 101 miles! The courses vary from rolling hills to strenuous terrain, so pick which one works best for you. And something new this year is the 15 or 30 Mile Mountain Bike Trail. A portion of the proceeds from registration benefits the Harris County Volunteer Fire Fighters. Rain or shine event! Everything kicks off at Harris County Carver Middle School, with registration from 7:30-8:30am and the courses open at 8:45am. Cost to participate is $40 for adults, $30 for Military, and $20 for ages 17 & under and that includes a T-shirt, breakfast, lunch, and more! (888) 478.0010 www.harriscountychamber.org
Since you're getting your bike back on the road, you might want to check out this Bike First Aid Course at Ride on Bikes this Saturday from 10:00am-12:00pm. They’ll be showing you all you need to know to keep your bike in stellar shape with some basic bike maintenance. Class will be held in the median of the 1000 block of Broadway. Cost to attend is $19.
Remember, this is just a sampling of what's going on this weekend, so make sure you explore the Community Calendar to find out more!
Now…go have some fun,
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Spring is in the Air!
Spring officially starts this Saturday, so let the outdoor fun begin! Here are a few things going on this weekend that might tempt you to have a little fun…
One of the largest events in the entire region happens in Columbus this weekend! It’s the 13th Annual Thunder in the Valley Air Show at the Columbus Airport. If it has ever flown or is flying today, chances are good that you’ll see it in action or on display…anything from a B-25, an F-18, Cobra and Sea Dragon Helicopters and maybe even an Osprey. There will be all sorts of aerial performances, airplane and helicopter rides, military ground displays, kid’s carnival and great food. This is a major fundraiser that helps youth organizations in the Chattahoochee Valley. It all takes place this Saturday & Sunday (March 20 & 21) from 10:00am-5:00pm. Admission is $8 in advance, $10 at the gate, and it's free for ages 6 & under. Here's the skinny on parking: you can park at the airport for $10, across the street at WalMart for $5 or you can take a free shuttle that will be picking up at the old Sears parking lot at the corner of Macon and Rigdon Roads. www.thunderinthvalleyairshow.com
Ok, we'll tread lightly here because this is a sensitive subject for some of us. Let’s face it…we’re all getting older and for the females among us and the men who are a part of our lives, we get to experience this wonder called menopause! It’s pretty much a fact of life so why not make the most of it and celebrate it…at least between hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and chocolate binges! That’s what this show’s all about…it’s “Menopause the Musical” at the RiverCenter. Set in a department store, 4 women with seemingly nothing in common but a black lace bra meet by chance at a lingerie sale and the rest you just have to see and experience at the production. And guys, don’t be afraid of this…it is hilarious (more than 11 million people worldwide have seen this production) & you just might learn something! There are only going to be 2 performances (Saturday at 8:00pm and Sunday at 2:00pm), so if you want tickets, you need to call pronto to get yours before it sells out. Admission is $37.50, $42.50, and $47.50. www.rivercenter.org
There’s some “cool” stuff going on at Port Columbus this weekend with another in their series of “Cool History”…this one’s all about Marines of the South. It’s a living history program so you’ll see guys all decked out in Civil War uniforms and they’ll be demonstrating what life was like for them and what sort of tactics these Marines used. They’ll do cannon firings, drill and small arms demonstrations, amphibious landings and re-creations of events from the Civil War involving Southern Marine units. The main bunch of reenactors coming to town for this one are all the way from Cincinnati, Ohio and other “sailors & marines” from Georgia and Florida will be part of the events as well. It's all day Saturday and Sunday (10:00am-5:00pm) and it's regular admission to get in: $6.50 for adults, $5.50 for Seniors and Military and $5 for students…that's a great deal! www.portcolumbus.org
Here's something a little different. Put on your sweats or yoga pants, bring your towel or mat and hit the front lawn of the Columbus Library this Saturday for the largest yoga class Columbus has ever seen! So if you been wanting to try yoga to see if this is a good workout fit for you, this is a good way to check it out. They’ll also have a couple of local doctors on hand doing seminars on nutrition, fitness, the importance of sleep and rescuing your children from addictive behaviors such as texting, playing video games and more! Participants even get a free, healthy lunch!! It's taking place from 10:30am-1:00pm and there's no cost to join in the fun. www.thecolumbuslibrary.com
Or how about some classic Broadway Friday night? Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess celebrates its 75th Anniversary in 2010 and RiverCenter for the Performing Arts joins in the festivities with a brilliantly updated production featuring a cast of 30 with a live orchestra. Only one performance for this one…Friday, 7:30pm Admission: $10, $49, $56 www.rivercenter.org
Remember, this is just a sample of what's going on this weekend and you can find out more by exploring the Community Calendar.
Now, go have some fun!
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Wednesday, March 17, 2010
It’s a bird, it’s a plane…
It really is a plane! If you see some different types of aircraft flying around the sky this weekend, don't be alarmed It's just the 13th Annual Thunder in the Valley Airshow. Going on Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM, at the Columbus Airport, it's an event you don't want to miss. Demonstrations, helicopter and plane rides, a kids carnival, yummy food vendors and more will all be onsite for your entertainment and enjoyment. Tickets are $10 and parking at the airport is $10, parking at Wal-mart is $5 and you can park for FREE at the old Sears building on Macon Road and take the FREE shuttle to the event. The weather is going to be BEAUTIFUL this Saturday so use this as your excuse to skip the housework and play outdoors, since this event benefits youth organizations in the Chattahoochee Valley area.
Categories: Events, on Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Early Spring Fever!
Admit it…the warmer it gets, the more we want to get outside and play! Sounds like an early case of Spring Fever to me, so here are a few things you might want to check out.
If you don’t already know this little bit of trivia, Columbus was the last battle of the Civil War and Charles A. Misulia has written his debut novel on this subject, entitled Columbus, GA 1865: The Last True Battle of the Civil War. This incredibly deeply researched book tells the story of James H. Wilson’s cavalry campaign through Alabama and Georgia, leading to the capture of Columbus, GA. Friday night (5-8pm) at Port Columbus, you can meet the author and hear a presentation on the book and the research involved, in the shadow of the CSS Jackson remains, burned by Wilson’s troops after the battle. This event is free and open to the public. Port Columbus is located at the corner of Victory Drive and Lumpkin Blvd…you can't miss it…just look for the USS Water Witch! (706.327.9798 or www.portcolumbus.org.)
On Saturday you and your dog can get some exercise while supporting a good cause. It’s the Open Door Community House’s 23rd Annual Open Door Walk Classic, with a 4-mile walk that heads south from Open Door, catches parts of the RiverWalk and circles back. People are encouraged to bring their dogs as dog bowls are situated along the route and food and live music are provided at the end of the walk. A new twist to this year’s event is the PAW contest, in this case PAW stands for Precious, Adorable, and Well-behaved. Dogs will be divided into 2 categories and will be judged on how well they interact with other dogs and humans. What a great way to spend a Saturday morning! The event will be held from 8:30-11:30am and is only $5 for the PAWS Contest. For more information, call (706) 323.5518.
On Mon, Mar 15 the Irish Guards and the Pipes, Drums, and Dancers of The Royal Regiment of Scotland will march into RiverCenter as part of the group’s debut tour of the United States. The Band of the Irish Guards was formed in 1900 on the wishes of Queen Victoria and there is tradition in the British Army of bands providing musical support to troops in active service. Musicians are also trained to support the Army Medical Services. You don’t want to miss the pomp and circumstance of this fantastic performance! Tickets for this run from $18-$39 and you can find out more at www.rivercenter.org.
Don't forget to make it a habit to check out the Community Calendar to find out about more events going on in and around Columbus.
Now, go have some fun!
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, Ft. Benning-Military, on Thursday, March 11, 2010
Family First
We all know there's nothing more important than family. Especially in this day and age where families are spread out across the country, unlike days past, where family stayed close by each other. This makes it harder for families to stay connected and stay in touch, which is why reunions are so vital. Because we know how critical family reunions are and how stressful planning one can be, the Columbus CVB hosted a Family Reunion Workshop at the Columbus Public Library on Saturday, March 6. It was a complete success, with over 15 eager to learn planners in attendance. The CVB walked them through the resources and talent we can offer as well as the resources available throughout the city. Many questions were asked and you heard the phrase, "Wow! I didn't know that!" uttered frequently.
If you or someone you know is planning a family reunion, please let them know that the Columbus CVB is ready and willing to help make their reunion the best it can be. Give us a call at 706.322.1613 and find out how we can help!
Categories: Events, The Good Guy File, on Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Can you walk the walk…The RiverWalk, that is.
The Chattahoochee RiverWalk is outdoor 15-mile linear park that hugs the banks of the Chattahoochee River. It has become a recreational mecca for cyclists, runners, and those that just want to enjoy the natural beauty of the river. The relationship between the river and Columbus is a long and interesting one and the RiverWalk helps to tell that story. If you have never taken the time for a leisurely stroll along the RiverWalk, I urge you to do so. If you would like a sneak peek of the RiverWalk, click here to see a short video…but it in no way does justice to experiencing the serenity and beauty of this Columbus treasure firsthand.
Categories: River Fun, on Friday, March 5, 2010
You Gotta Love a Weekend!
There's definitely a hint of Spring fever in the air and it actually looks like a good weekend to get out and do stuff…fun stuff, that is! So here's a quick rundown of just a couple of things you should put on your to-do list.
I don’t know about you, but life seems to be moving pretty fast. Hard to believe we’re in March already…so maybe we all need to slow down just a bit and do something fun and all it entails is you, a kite, and a nice breeze in the air! It’s time for the Annual Kite Rally at Florence Marina State Park, which just happens to be one of the prettiest places around to unwind. What’s so great about this event is it’s something you can do on your own or pile up a bunch of friends & family, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a day in the sunshine. You can bring your own kite or they’ll have all the fixin’s there for you to make one and it will just cost you $2. They’ll also be giving out prizes for the best kite and highest flyer. Florence Marina is about a half-hour south of Columbus in Omaha, GA. (229)838.4706.
If you’re in the mood for a little art, antiquing, plant shopping, or cooking this weekend, you can do it all at the 6th Annual Art & Antique Show and Sale to benefit Columbus Museum. This is one of the premier antique, decorative and fine art events in the country, and it features over 30 nationally acclaimed antique dealers & regional artists. There’ll also be special lectures by an interior decorator & gardening and cooking experts…also some incredible raffle prizes (check out the Museum’s website and take a look at one of the prizes—a platinum & diamond ring valued at almost $6500!) This is the major fundraiser for the Cols Museum & helps make many exhibitions and educational programs possible. It'll all be held at the RiverMill Event Center (3715 First Ave) Friday and Saturday from 10:00am-6:00pm and Sunday from 12:00-5:00pm. Admission is $10 and is good for all three days. (706.748.2562 or www.columbusmuseum.com.
Ooo, La La! Check out the Columbus Symphony Orchestra this Saturday night at RiverCenter for their "French Impressions" performance. They'll give you a sampling of French music with works from composers like Debussy and Ravel, plus they're welcoming special guests, the Hamann Sisters. The performance starts at 7:30pm and tickets are $36. (706) 256.3612 or www.csoga.org.
“The wind will be sweeping down the plains” at the Springer Opera House this weekend with the opening of their next performance…”Oklahoma!” This was the first collaboration between the legendary team of Rogers & Hammerstein and some say it’s their best! Set in the western Indian Territory at the turn of the century, it’s all about the rivalry between farmers and cowboys…and of course a lovely young lass for them to fight over! This is another one of those plays that may never have had the chance to see on stage, but you know some of the classic songs… Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin', The Surrey with the Fringe on Top, and of course the show-stopper…Oklahoma! You can catch this through March 20 and tickets are $38. (706) 327.3688 or www.springeroperahouse.org.
If any act embodies the place country music has evolved to in the new century, it is Rascal Flatts. Since they formed a decade ago, the trio has helped change the face of popular music! They are on their “Unstoppable Tour” and Columbus is lucky enough to be one of the stops on this tour. Not only do we get to enjoy this incredible band, but they’ll also be welcoming special guest, Darius Rucker. He’s best known as the lead singer for Hootie & The Blowfish but he’s also had a solo career in R&B and in 2008 he embarked on a solo career in the world of Country music, which intrigued a lot of folks because of his rock & pop music roots, but looks like he’s right at home because this past November he won the Country Music Association New Artist of the Year award! One show only Friday, March 5 at 8:00pm and tickets are $59.75. (706) 653.4460 or wwwcolumbusciviccenter.org.
Don't forget to visit www.columbusgacalendar.com to find out more events going on in and around the area!
Now, go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Columbus hosts The Regional Visitor Center Annual Meeting
On February 24 - 26, 2010 approximately 50 Visitor Center representatives from across the Southeast were in Columbus, GA for their Annual Meeting. They had informational sessions all day at the historic Trade Center, with a little bit of free time thrown in to explore our beautiful city. On Wednesday night they had a fantastic dinner at the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus. The atmosphere was wonderful and Country's catering was, of course, fantastic…steak, fried catfish, cheesy grits, hushpuppies, banana pudding, buttermilk pie, and chocolate chess pie…wow, I'm hungry again just thinking about it. Thursday night the participants did a dine around in our Uptown area where they ate at restaurants such as The Fresh Fish Market, Country's on Broad, The Cannon Brew Pub, Downstairs at the Loft, Houlihan's, and Locos Amigos Cantina. They'll finish up on Friday with a scavenger hunt and then head home, hopefully having learned a lot and leaving with some great memories of Columbus.
We want to say thank you to this group of great people for coming to Columbus and allowing us the opportunity to host their Annual Meeting. We hope to see them all again very soon!
Categories: Events, The Good Guy File, History, on Thursday, February 25, 2010
Tourism IS Economic Development!
We have the new Economic Impact numbers for FY 2009 and they are impressive. Based on a Tourism Impact Analysis done by Columbus State University, in FY 2009, we had 1.5 million visitors to Columbus, $359 million was generated in annual visitor expenditures, and 6,900 jobs exist because of tourism. Plus, for every $1 the CVB spent on advertising, Columbus received $11 return on investment.
I definitely think the word is getting out there about Columbus, and what a fantastic place it is to visit!
Categories: The Good Guy File, on Thursday, February 25, 2010
Strike One…
"Strike One!...Safe!...You're Out!" Those are just some of the phrases you'll hear shouted this weekend at South Commons Softball Complex for the National Fastpitch Coaches Association's 2010 Leadoff Classic. 23 colleges will have teams in this tournament, including 2 local favorites, the Auburn Tigers and the GA Tech Yellow Jackets. This event is one of college softball's premier tournaments. Opening ceremonies begin Friday, February 26 at 10:45 AM and it's time to play ball at 11:00 AM, at which time there will be 6 games going on simultaneously. If you decide you want to see some of the action this weekend, tickets can be purchased at the gate. It's sure to be an awesome display of athletic ability!
Categories: Events, on Thursday, February 25, 2010
Fun Stuff for Everyone this Weekend!
We're winding up February, so needless to say, we all have a touch of Spring fever already! So if you're looking for some fun stuff to do this weekend, here's a sample of what's going on.
This event isn’t happening until Sunday, but you need to get it on your calendars now! It’s the Columbus Comic Book Show at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center and they have all sorts of cool things going on that day. If it has to do with comics, toys, cards, games, and more, it’ll be going on! They’ll also have lots of activities for kids, costume characters, and if you’ve never been into the planetarium to see a show, you can catch a LASER Beatles or LASER Metallica, or really get the full experience with a showing of Star Trek 2009 at 1:00pm. And if you think comics are just kids stuff, did you hear about the 1938 Superman comic that cost a dime to buy when it was released…it just sold for $1 million!!!! All the events take place from 11:00am-4:00pm and admission is only $4. The Space Science Center is located on Front Ave. For more scoop on this one, call (706) 649.1477 or www.ccssc.org.
One of the most prestigious guitar symposiums in the country happens right here in our own backyard at CSU’s Schwob School of Music! The 11th Annual Guitar Symposium is going on this weekend and some of the best guitarists from around the world will be here to not only perform, but to also educate. In fact, some of these artists will be holding master-classes and giving lectures, but not to worry, there will be a whole lot of guitar playing going on with guest artist concerts and an international competition with divisions for middle school through professional levels. Believe me when I tell you this isn’t just a local thing, but guitar artists from Chile, Italy, Canada and other countries will be here for this event! The symposium is this Saturday and Sunday (Feb 27 & 28) in Legacy Hall at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts (Broadway). Tickets are $20. For more info, call (706) 649.7225.
Here’s a great thing to do for lunch on Sunday, because not only do you get a delicious bowl of soup (and bread, dessert, & drink!) but you also get to pick out and keep your handmade bowl and you’ll be helping out the Second Harvest Food Bank to help feed local children. Great idea! It's this Sunday from 11:00am-3:00pm at the Northside Supercenter (8151 Veterans Parkway). Adults: $10, Kids: $5. To find out more, call (706) 576.5475.
After this concert brought the house down last year, they are bringing it back by popular demand! It’s the 2nd Annual Elegant Evening of Gospel at RiverCenter Friday night (Feb. 26). And it’s all sorts of gospel music…you’ll hear choirs from 4th Street and Good Hope Baptist Churches, St. Thomas Episcopal Church, The Raspberry Singers, Brother Together and more. And Rev. JH Flakes from 4th Street Baptist Church will be there, and I don’t care what you believe in, hearing him speak is a treat! So why are all the gospel choirs coming together? It’s a fundraiser to benefit the 4th Street Daycare Center, who because of fundraisers like this, are able to offer really good childcare and do it so folks can afford it! It'll take place in the Bill Heard Theatre at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts beginning at 7:30pm. Admission is $30. (706) 324.2055 or www.4thst.org.
If watching the Olympics have gotten you all pumped up about sports, then you’re going to love this one! It’s the 15th Annual National Fastpitch Coaches Association’s Leadoff Classic and it’s all taking place at the South Commons Softball Complex. What this means is that THE best collegiate fastpitch softball players will be here all weekend vying for one of the most sought-after titles in the world of fastpitch softball! Schools competing include Georgia Tech, Florida State, Michigan, Auburn, Mississippi State, and Illinois and that’s just a few of the teams because 23 colleges will be competing. Each team will play 5 games and the team with the best record will be crowned the 2010 NFCA Leadoff Classic Champion! Games get underway Friday and Saturday at 11:00am and Sunday at 10:00am. Daily tickets for adults are $10 and kids are only $7. You can also get 3-Day Tournament passes for $25 for adults and $15 for ages 12 & under. Check out www.columbusgasports.com or call (706) 660.1996 for more info on this one.
See, there's something for everyone this weekend! The only you have to do is pick the one…or ones…you want to be a part of! Remember, this is just a taste of the events happening this weekend so go to the Community Calendar to see a complete listing of events in and around Columbus, GA.
Go have some fun,
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Let’s Set The Stage…
If you love theatre, arts, history, or just beautiful historic buildings, you are sure to fall in love with the Springer Opera House. If you've never been, click here take a sneak peek at this magnificent facility. The Springer has a Main Stage Season, A Children's Series, and a Studio Series. For more information about their season or the theatre itself, visit www.springeroperahouse.org.
Categories: Arts, Good Eats!, The Good Guy File, History, on Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Reasons to love Columbus, GA
Hey there!
A couple of months ago we kicked off our "51 Reasons" campaign. I have been putting different reasons out there on all of our social media sites and have asked others to send me the reasons they love Columbus and I wanted to share a few of the responses I received:
"Its a big city without the big city feel—laid back and comfortable."
"Love Lake Bottom, Cooper Creek, Flat Rock, & the RiverWalk."
"Personal, spiritual and professional growth!"
"The birthplace of Coca-Cola!!! 
"
This is just a little of the wonderful feedback we received about this wonderful city. If you have a reason you love Columbus, please feel free to share! Thanks!
Categories: The Good Guy File, River Fun, on Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Tons of Fun this Weekend in Columbus, GA!
Don't let the mid-winter slump get you down…there's plenty of fun stuff to get out and do! Here's a quick list of just a few of the events going on this weekend.
Just the name of this one makes you feel good! Remember the biblical phrase that promises people being fed honey out of the rock? Well, this event is called “Sweet Honey in the Rock” and this metaphor about honey and rocks really captures the essence of these African-American women and the performance they give. The group’s repertoire is steeped in the sacred music of and songs of struggle for justice everywhere…something we can all relate to! So you’ll hear a little bit of everything…blues, spirituals, reggae, African chants, ancient lullabies and even some jazz improvisation. They are an internationally renowned a cappella ensemble, and they sometimes incorporate percussion instruments and that makes for some interesting harmonies and rhythms. It's taking place at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts on Friday, February 19 beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets range from $10-$42. To order tickets, call (706) 256.3612 or www.rivercenter.org.
If you are a bride-to-be, or just wish you were, listen up because there is a huge event going on Sunday that you need to check out! It’s the Ultimate Bridal Expo and it’s going to be held at the RiverMill Event Center (3715 First Ave). There will be more than 60 vendors from around the region along with a Formal Elegance fashion show at 3:30pm. The first 300 people to attend will receive a free tote bag filled with all sorts of good stuff like coupons, giveaways, and more. Of course they’ll have free samples, delicious food, and door prizes. But here’s the really good part if you’re planning a wedding…one special bride will win a catered rehearsal dinner for up to 30 people from award-winning Chef Jamie Keating at RiverMill Event Center! Admission is only $3 for brides and $5 for guests. For more info, call (706) 576.6252.
If you've been watching this year's Winter Olympic Games and have gotten inspired by all the figure skating, here's your chance to get on the ice this Sunday at the Columbus Civic Center! They'll have two sessions for skating…2:00-3:30pm and 4:30-6:00pm. Admission is $7 and skate rental is $3. Details at (706) 653.4482 or www.columbusciviccenter.org.
Now, we all have to eat dinner this weekend, so why don’t we make it into more fun than just putting food on a plate? Let’s check out Sherlock’s Mystery Dinner Theatre latest called “Therapy Can Be Murder!” Tony Dobbins, the famous billionaire self-help guru, has returned to his hometown of Columbus to host his well-known seminar “Unleashing the Hero Within You,” to an invited audience of unappreciated sidekicks and background characters from the world of TV, literature, and pop culture. All is well until someone makes other plans and knocks him off!! Now we get to become the detectives and figure out who-dunnit! Besides a great show, you get a delicious 3-course meal. Reservations a must! It's all happening at the Columbus Marriott (Front Ave) every Friday and Saturday night thru April 3 beginning at 7:00pm. Tickets are $45 per person, but remember that includes the dinner and the show! You can make reservations by calling (706) 718.7494 or visit www.sherlockscolumbus.com.
Here’s a type of music you don’t hear everyday…mainly because it’s never been done before! The RiverCenter is hosting an unusual musical group next Tuesday called Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile. These guys formed in 2006 and they are already playing to sold-out crowds around the world. After you hear them, you have to ask the question, Why didn’t someone think about mixing bluegrass, jazz and classical music together sooner?...because that’s how they mix it up to come up with something totally unique! Punch Brothers is composed of 5 really talented musicians who play anything from the mandolin, fiddle, to the banjo and get this, their first album (which received a Grammy nomination) is called “How to Grow a Woman from the Ground.” Tickets are $10, $26, and $32 and can be ordered by calling (706) 256.3612 or www.rivercenter.org.
Remember, this is just a taste of what's going on this weekend, so make sure you check out the Columbus Community Calendar to find out about more events going on.
Go have some fun!
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, Good Eats!, Shopping, on Thursday, February 18, 2010
A Weekend of Laughter, Music, Words…and Love?
Hey, don't forget it's Valentine's Day this weekend, so grab your sweetie and make some plans to get out and have some fun! Here's a sample of what's going on, but don't forget, you can always check the Community Calendar to find out about these events and more. The calendar is pretty cool in that you can search for events by date, location, organization or type. Now…on with the show!
How about we have a little laughter in our lives this weekend!? This ought to do the trick…it’s Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Big Happy Family at the Columbus Civic Center. Madea is back after 5 long years of being off the stage. And Tyler Perry says that if you’ve never seen a Madea play, then you haven’t seen Madea at all! He based Madea on an aunt who lives in Georgia, as well as on his mother (sad note…she recently passed away.) Now remember that HE plays Madea, who is a grandma that dispenses wisdom in a "no-nonsense manner," and the fact that he’s 6’5” and is wearing a wig and a dress makes it all the funnier! FYI: The nickname "Madea" comes from a Southern African-American contraction of the words "mother dear." The play will take place on Sunday with two performances—3:00pm and 7:00pm. Tickets are $52.50 and $57.50. You can get tickets or more details by calling (706) 653.4460 or www.columbusciviccenter.org.
Here’s another great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your sweetie! The Columbus Jazz Society is having their monthly concert and jam session at the Liberty Theatre and they are welcoming special guests, The Solar Quintet. This is one of those groups where the musicians are so talented that they can do it all…from fusion to Latin to traditional Jazz. And something else interesting about this band is that there isn’t a bandleader, so their rehearsal process is more like collaboration and discovery…it’s all about the innovation. This one you can really make a great night of because you get the concert, the jam session, and they’ll even be serving hamburgers and hot dogs thanks to CSUs Music Fraternity! Big date night potential here… Everything kicks off at 6:00pm with the concert and the jam session starts at 8:00pm. Admission is only $10. The Liberty Theatre is located at 813 8th Ave in Columbus. (706) 660.9295 or www.columbusjazzsociety.com.
So, we have to have a little romance this weekend and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra has just the thing! It’s a really unusual performance that involves live musicians and a silent movie. In fact, it’s one of the best silent movies ever…Charlie Chaplin’s “City Lights.” It’s one of those movies that will make you laugh and make you cry with no one ever uttering a word! (The final scene in the movie will really touch your heart!) But not only do we get to see this great movie, but the CSO will be in the pit providing a live musical score as a compliment to the movie. And, they’ll be serving champagne and strawberries before the concert! This all takes place in Bill Heard Theatre at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts on Sunday beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets range from $28-$36. (706) 256.3612 or www.csoga.org.
Now, this sounds pretty intriguing! It’s an original stage play called “Words” & the plot sounds really interesting. It all takes place in a small Georgia town and centers around a character named Darlene Russell, who is anything but nice…in fact, most folks refer to her as DarMEAN! The only thing big enough to stop this mean machine is a small lump in her breast. She has to get cancer treatment and is forced to leave her restaurant in the hands of the employees she’s been mistreating. Remember the old saying “When the cat’s away, the mice will play?” That’s just what happens here, but when Darlene returns from her treatment, she is a completely different person and has done a complete turn-around in her personality. Looks like this one’s going to be filled with laughter and tears! This is also taking place at the Liberty Theatre Cultural Center this Friday at 8:00pm, Saturday at 3:00pm and 8:00pm and a Sunday matinee at 3:00pm. General admission is $15, tickets for military, students and Seniors are $13. For more info, call (706) 561.8065.
And finally, you can't get much more romantic than sitting under the stars with your special someone! Not only could this be a romantic night, but you might also learn something about the stars in the heavens. The crew at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center are hosting an "Astronomy Night" at Providence Canyon this Saturday night beginning at 7:00pm. You can take your own telescope or you can gaze through the ones the Science Center will have set up. No admission charge for this one! (706) 649.1470 or www.ccssc.org.
Cards, flowers, and chocolate are nice, but making a memory with your sweetheart is even better, so get out and have some fun this weekend! Ok, maybe chocolate wouldn't be a bad idea either…
shelby
Categories: on Thursday, February 11, 2010
Hey there! How are you today?
"Hey there! How are you today?" Just these few words, especially when coming from a stranger, can have a big impact. I've noticed more and more lately that it really brings a smile to my face and makes my day a little better when someone I don't know, that I just happen to pass while walking down the street, smiles and says, "Hey! How are you? Have a great day!" So I have started greeting people too. It, hopefully, not only makes them feel better and noticed, but makes me feel good too. Now, I'm not saying you are not going to get some weird looks or the cold shoulder or maybe a response that you don't want to hear…that is going to happen. Some people just don't get it. But don't let that stop you.
Keep smiling. Keep saying "Hi!" I recently spoke to someone I passed in a parking lot, just a simple "Hi, how are you?" and she responded, kept going then stopped, turned around and said to me, "That is what I love about the South. How people you don't even know are so friendly and warm. Everybody here is always quick to smile and make you feel welcome." It turns out she was visiting Columbus for her son's graduation from Fort Benning. So next time you are walking down the street or down a hallway, smile at the people you pass and say hello…it costs you absolutely nothing and benefits everyone.
Categories: The Good Guy File, on Thursday, February 4, 2010
It’s a Broadway on Broadway Weekend!
There's a nice mix of fun stuff to get into this weekend and here's a sneak-peek at just a few of the things you might enjoy!
The folks at FDR’s Little White House (Warm Springs, GA) have a great way to celebrate Black History Month…by saying “thank you” to the Tuskegee Airmen! This is one you’ll want to make sure to have a camera with you and maybe even an autograph book because these guys are truly American HEROES! The Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first Black military airmen, escorted bombing missions throughout North Africa, Sicily and Europe during WWII, flying over 15,000 combat sorties and did it with an almost perfect record. There is even a special exhibit on display this year from Kennesaw State University titled, “The Tuskegee Airmen: The Segregated Skies of World War II.” It's all happening this Saturday (Feb 6) from 10:00am-2:00pm and admission is only $5-$8. For more details, call (706) 655.5870 or visit the state park on the web.
OK, so this is, without a doubt, one of the best events to come along in a long time because it’s really different, benefits an incredible organization…Columbus Hospice, and involves purses and pets! It’s called “Purse Party for Pets” and it’s happening this Saturday from 11:00am-1:30pm at Green Island Country Club (Standing Boy Road) and it’s just what it sounds like…ladies and pet lovers…you’re going to love this concept. They’ll be having live auctions and silent auctions on all sorts of purses, a champagne brunch, and all the proceeds benefit this program. Columbus Hospice has been selected as one of the first three hospices across the country to become part of the Pet Peace of Mind program, which provides Columbus Hospice patients and caregivers the assurance that someone understands the role of their Pets in contributing to their emotional and spiritual well being. So if pets need grooming or a vet visit, or need pet food, this program helps take care of all those issues. What a great idea! Admission is $30 and that includes the brunch. You can find out more at (706) 243.0044 or www.columbushospice.com.
Bird lovers, take note on this one! It's time for the Great Backyard Bird Count and Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center (South Lumpkin Road) is a part of this national, 4-day long program that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where birds are across the continent. Anyone can participate from beginning bird-watchers to experts. FREE to participate! It's taking place this Saturday (Feb. 6) beginning at 10:00am. They can tell you more at (706) 687.4090 or check out http://oxbow.colstate.edu/ .
Here’s a great idea for some Sunday afternoon fun! The tremendously talented bunch with the Youth Orchestra of Columbus (YOGC) are doing something really cool where you’ll get entertained and have a delicious lunch! It’s called “Best of Broadway Pops Concert & Luncheon” and they’ll be performing Broadway favorites from Phantom of the Opera, Fiddler on the Roof, Sound of Music, West Side Story, Cats and lots more. You can even purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win some great prizes. By attending events like this, you’ll be encouraging these young musicians, they’ll be entertaining you, and it’ll help YOGC to continue providing an extraordinary experience for this group. All proceeds will benefit the YOGC. For the lunch buffet and the show, admission is $30 for adults and $15 for kids. Lunch begins at 12:30 and the performance will start at 1:00pm and it's being held at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center. You have to make reservations, so call (706) 256.3614 or visit http://yogc.org/ .
Speaking of legendary Broadway shows, look what’s coming to the RiverCenter next Tuesday & Wednesday (Feb 9 & 10)! It’s the longest-running American Broadway musical ever, it’s truly “one singular sensation…it’s “A Chorus Line!” Winner of 9 Tony Awards (including Best Musical) and the Pulitzer Prize for drama, it’s absolutely the musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and has put everything on the line to achieve it. The story and music revolve around 17 dancers at an audition and they are giving it all they’ve got as they fight for this chance to dance in a Broadway show. 2 shows only next Tuesday and Wednesday and they both begin at 7:30pm. Tickets are $42.50, $47.50 and $52.50 and are available at (706) 256.3612 or www.rivercenter.org.
There's actually quite a bit to do this weekend and you can find out more by visiting the Community Calendar . New info is always being added so check it frequently!
Go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, Good Eats!, History, Shopping, on Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Weekend Bound!
Ready for a little weekend fun? Here's a list of just a few of the things going on that you might want check out.
We are very lucky to have so many different types of arts organizations in Columbus, so no matter what type of art you like, you’re bound to find it. Just look at this weekend…not many cities our size can boast of having an extremely talented ballet company like the Columbus Ballet and we get to see them, as well as a special performance from the Montgomery Ballet (a professional ballet company). The Montgomery Ballet will be performing the story of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” complete with music from Mendelssohn. Some of the senior dancers from the Columbus Ballet will get to perform in this as well. The Columbus Ballet will open the program with the Act II of Swan Lake, which is a complete ballet within itself! It's all happening in the Bill Heard Theatre at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts on Saturday (Jan. 30) with performances at 2:00pm and 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 & $25. Find out more by calling (706) 256.3612 or www.rivercenter.org .
There’s no better place in this country to garden, so if you have a green thumb or would like to learn how NOT to kill plants, then check out the 24th Annual Southern Gardening Symposium going on this weekend at Callaway Gardens. They’re bringing in experts from all over to talk about anything from including water features in your garden, a one-stop gardening marketplace, all sorts of hands-on workshops, and silent & live auctions for unique plants and garden items. This one’s a little pricier than most things we talk about, but you can spend this much in one trip to the nursery, only to have the plants dead within a week if you don’t plant things the right way! Besides, the admission of $225 includes and evening reception, two continental breakfasts, a box lunch, banquet, as well as the programs and materials. If you want more details, head to their website at www.callawaygardens.com or call (706) 665.5153.
If you just need to get outside and do a little communing with nature, then inhale & exhale deeply and check out the Saturday Nature Walk at Oxbow Meadows! It’s a great way to experience nature up close and personal and clear your mind at the same time. CSU staff will take you on a leisurely walk along the trails at the Oxbow Meadows Environmental Park this Saturday beginning at 8:00am. You’ll look at plants, birds and other wildlife…that are, believe it or not, right in the middle of the city! You don’t have to be an experienced hiker or have a vast knowledge or the great outdoors…in fact, beginners (ages 8 & older) are welcome and encouraged. Make sure you wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather, and if you have them, bring a field guide and binoculars. If you don't have them, they’ll provide loaners. Oxbow Meadows is located on South Lumpkin Road and their phone number is (706) 687.4090.
So here’s a guy that I’m not that familiar with, but after doing a little research on the internet, this might be someone I’d like to get matched with on E-Harmony! Talking about country-star Jamey Johnson, who’ll be in concert at the Civic Center Friday night (8:00pm). He is an unbelievably talented songwriter & has exploded onto the scene also as a singer and performer. He was raised outside Montgomery in a family that was poor but highly musical. He’s a study in contrasts—raised in a devout household, yet he spent part of his youth drinking beer and playing country songs at night on the tombstone of Hank Williams. He has a backwoods upbringing, but is a formally trained musician who knew music theory as early as junior high school. He is deadly serious about his music, yet has an outrageous sense of humor…not to mention his piercing pale–blue eyes and biker beard, he looks like a hell raiser, but he has the heart of a poet. Sounds like my kind of guy!! Tickets are $22.50 & $32.50.
And don't forget, there are a couple of really good stage performances you should catch…Inherit the Wind at the Springer Opera House and Gaslight with The Family Theatre (2100 Hamilton Road.)
That's just a sample of what's going on this weekend. You can explore the Community Calendar for a complete listing of events and activities.
Go have some fun,
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, Good Eats!, History, on Wednesday, January 27, 2010
All the World’s a Stage…
Looks like a weekend full of great theatre and fun on ice!
First up, it’s been called one of the greatest plays of the past century and it’s being performed at one of the greatest theatres in the country…“Inherit the Wind” at the Springer Opera House. It’s the story of a schoolteacher who is arrested for teaching Darwin's theories. He is defended by a very famous lawyer and is prosecuted by a fundamentalist politician. The story is based on the 1925 "Scopes Monkey Trial" with debates between Clarence Darrow & William Jennings Bryan when they squared off in a Tennessee courtroom—a lot of the script is taken from the transcripts of that trial. Did you know this trial might have happened in Georgia instead of Tennessee if it hadn’t been for the Columbus Enquirer-Sun? Hmmmm…....
Find out why at this production going on now through February 6 at 7:30pm and a Sunday matinee (January 31) at 2:30pm. Admission is $35 and you can get tickets and more information at (706) 327.3688 or www.springeroperahouse.org.
Here’s a group that has been called one of America’s finest professional male vocal ensembles. It’s a group of guys called “Cantus” and they are known nationally and internationally for their broad repertoire, bold singing, and engaging stage presentations. They have this uncanny ability to span all periods and genres and wherever they go, audiences and critics can’t say enough good things about them. Not many vocal groups can claim to be able to do anything from Gregorian chants, to contemporary sacred works, then go back to Renaissance times, then switch to world music and even throw in a little pop music before they’re done! You can catch this performance at the RiverCenter's Legacy Hall on Sunday (January 24) at 4:00pm. Tickets are only $20. For more info, call (706) 649.7225 or visit www.rivercenter.org.
Lace up your skates and head to the Civic Center this Sunday (January 24) for 2 sessions of ice skating…there's one from 2:00-3:30 or you can attend the 4:30-6:00pm session. You can bring your own skates or you can rent a pair for $3. Admission is $7. To find out more, call (706) 653.4460 or www.columbusciviccenter.org.
I don't know about you, but I LOVE classic movies and one of my all-time favorite movies is “Gaslight,” the thriller starring Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer, so I got really excited when I saw where The Family Theatre is putting on a production of “Angel Street,” which was the Broadway production that later was turned into the movie “Gaslight.” Angel Street tells the demoniac story of the Manninghams of London. So Mr. Manningham does this real fake-out number on his wife pretending to be kindest of men, but he’s really torturing her psychologically, trying to make her think she is going insane. He’s trying to make her think she is cuckoo crazy! A nice bonus with this one is if you take a canned good, the Family Theatre will donate it to the Valley Rescue Mission AND take a dollar off your ticket. The production will be held this Friday & Saturday (next weekend as well) beginning at 7:30pm at 2100 Hamilton Road. Admission is $10, Seniors & Military tickets are $8, and Student are $6. You can make reservations or get more details at (706) 536.8052 or www.familytheatre.org.
Looks like there’s a lot of great theatre to take in this weekend and this one is good for kids of all ages! It’s “Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business” being brought to us by CSUs Department of Theatre…their first performance of the year. Kids of all ages are familiar with and love the Junie B. Jones series of books because children and adults of all ages can relate to, and empathize with, Junie’s predicaments! It’s all about seeing the world through the eyes of a child…where kindergarten is a place to make new friends and NOT watch TV and your new baby brother could very well be a monkey! For fans of this series, you’ll be glad to know that this adaptation takes what’s on the page & puts it on the stage…just in a musical format! The production will be held on the Mainstage of CSUs Theatre on the Park at the RiverPark Campus in Uptown Columbus. You can catch a performance now through Saturday at 7:30pm and there are also matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2:00pm. General admission is $10, for Seniors, Children, Active Duty Military and CSU Alumni admission is only $5. You can get more scoop on this at (706) 507.8444 or at the CSU website.
And don't forget that our beloved Columbus Cottonmouths will take to the ice this Saturday (January 23) to play against the Pensacola Ice Flyers at 7:30pm at the Civic Center. Tickets range from $12-$22. Go Snakes!!! Get more details at www.cottonmouths.com.
There's always a lot to get out to see and do…and remember, one of the best resources to find out where all the fun stuff is happening, is the Columbus Community Calendar.
Have a great weekend…go have some fun!
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Post-Holiday Fun
Just because the holidays are now officially over doesn't mean there isn't plenty of fun stuff to get out and do! Here's just a sampling of things you and your family or friends can check out this weekend.
Remember last week how we kicked things off with something sweet & romantic like the big Wedding Extravaganza? Not so sweet this week because we’re getting down & dirty with an event at the Columbus Civic Center called “Best of the Best—18: The Real Deal!” This is an action packed night of world class Mixed Martial Arts showcasing a lot fighting and punching! It’s an 11-bout card that will feature fighters from around the country as well as the Columbus area. I didn’t know this but Mixed Martial Arts fuses techniques from around the world and developed throughout history to create this sport. So just how wild is this going to be? The press release I read said they’re not responsible for blood splashed on clothing of those seated in first 10 rows!!!!
Wow. It's all happening this Friday night (Jan 15) beginning at 7:30pm. (Doors open at 6:30pm) Admission is $45 if you want to sit ringside, other reserved tickets are $25 & $35. The Civic Center can give you more details at (706) 653.4460 or www.columbusciviccenter.org.
…And now for something completely different! Our world-class Columbus Symphony Orchestra will be taking to the stage at RiverCenter for a performance called “Two Great Symphonies” this Saturday night. This one will focus on two of the greatest classical musical minds of the 20th Century—Mahler and Shostakovich. And something a little different the CSO will be doing is featuring live performance notes & musical demonstrations from the stage…so you’ll get entertained and educated at the same time! By the way, when Mahler wrote Symphony No. 10, he was at the peak of his musical career, but his personal life was in the gutter because he found out his wife was getting busy with an architect, so he went to Sigmund Freud for help…then he died! Who said classical music was boring… Tickets are $36 and you can get them by calling (706) 256.3612 or at the CSOs website-www.csoga.org.
There are also several nice events going on to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, including the 14th Annual MLK Unity Parade of Excellence that will kick off this Saturday (Jan 16) at 1:00pm on Colin Powell Parkway in Phenix City, crossing over the 13th Street Bridge into Columbus, then south on Broadway, ending at 9th Street.
Then, it's the first ever Martin Luther King Gospel Concert this Saturday at the Civic Center…and the featured performers in this concert, The William Brothers, are amazing! Few gospel groups can equal the Williams Brothers in terms of longevity and popularity. The trio dates back to 1960, when Doug and Melvin's father, the late Leon "Pop" Williams founded the group. The Brothers have received a Grammy nomination in the category of Best Soul Gospel Album ("This Is Your Night"), won two Stellar Awards & earned a gold record. These guys are so incredibly talented that they’ve been on stage performing with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Amy Grant & James Taylor! The show starts at 6:30pm and tickets are $22.50 in advance and $27.50 at the door. You can get more information by calling (334) 614.8903 or www.columbusciviccenter.org.
So far, we’ve had a little classical and a little gospel music, so let’s make room for a little bit of Broadway! Plus, this will give you something to look forward to doing the first of next week. It’s “Camelot” at RiverCenter next Tuesday & Wednesday (Jan 19 & 20) and it’s musical theatre at its best! It is, of course, the sumptuous tale set in a land where honor and chivalry reign and all is well until Queen Guenevere breaks King Arthur’s heart when she falls in love with young Lancelot. This one contains some of the most hauntingly romantic songs of any Broadway production…”If Ever I Would Leave You,” “I Loved You Once in Silence,” & “Follow Me.” Looks likes this is going to be quite a performance! Tickets are $39.50, $44.50, & $49.50 and you can get them by calling (706) 256.3612 or www.rivercenter.org.
Get in a little ice hockey action this Sunday at 4:00pm at Columbus Civic Center when the Columbus Cottonmouths take on the Fayetteville FireAntz. Tickets range from $12-$22. You can get all the details at (706) 571.0086 or www.cottonmouths.com.
Don't forget you can find info about all of these events and lots more at the Columbus Community Calendar.
Go have some fun…
shelby
Categories: Arts, Events, History, on Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Does anything beat the smell of bbq wafting through the summer air? - link details
Protect your eyes with new sunglasses from Columbus Eye Associates! - link details
Come to the Infantry Museum on Sat. for the Ft. Benning Sergeants Major Association Armed Forces Day Celebration! link details
Have you noticed all the new sculptures in Uptown Columbus? details
Fort Benning will hold it's annual Memorial Day Observance at the NIM parade field on May 24th at 9 a.m. link details