| | Issue #19.07 :: 09/12/2007 - 09/18/2007 | Metro's Best Arts, Media & Celebrity
All the nominees you love, and love to hate!
| BY METRO SPIRIT
| AUGUSTA, GA. - 68. Metro’s Best Local Visual Artist
Lillie Morris — The owner of Broadstrokes Gallery in Evans is actually working on her second career, having spent 30 years in health care. “I just feel so privileged to be able to express my artistic abilities at this stage in my life. I don’t take it for granted.” Many of her images depict things common to the South and the waterways of the area. They’re beautiful, relatable and often combine her dual love of music and art, particularly when there’s a Celtic bent to it. But she also makes sure to showcase other artists regularly in her gallery. “It helps people realize what a wealth of talent we have in the Augusta,” Morris said. Visit broadstrokesgallery.com.
Rhian Swain-Giboney — By day, this redheaded fury is the president of Red Wolf, Inc., an award-wining design and public relations firm in Martinez. But every free moment outside of work and family is spent on creating, from painting to photography and even blogging. The 2006 Augusta Advertising Federation (AdFed) Silver Medal Award went to this sassy business owner and artist who is known for her infectious laugh and positive attitude as much as her award-winning design. Visit redwolf-inc.com.
billy s — This well-known local personality paints bright, fun images that make people feel good. “I love what the colors do to us. I’d hope to help the viewer see or feel something in a different way. And maybe even get a smile out of them,” he said on his website, billysworld.net. "I am very happy that so many people dig what I am doing, it keeps me busy,” he said. He’s also the founder of S, his local rock band that has become a staple on the local and regional club circuit. “I am very happy that so many people dig what I am doing, it keeps me very busy.” Visit myspace.com/billysart.
Chris Murray — Readers love this artist for his quirky sense of fun. Whether it is his art vending machine at Bee’s Knees or his exhibit of original dioramas at Tire City Potters, Murray says the appeal of his art has something to do with the earth’s gravitation and the stars. One day, he hopes, he’ll raise a family of ducks on a happy commune together and create art. “Although,” he cautions, “we would take every precaution possible to be sure that our happy commune does not turn into a cult.” Murray is also an illustrator for The Metro Spirit.
Jay Jacobs — If there’s an art event in town, you’ll meet this casual creator, chatting up his many friends and acquaintances. His art is fun and easy to relate to, he says, “because it isn’t highbrow. You don’t have to figure out what style it is or how to classify it. It’s silly and approachable.” And even if no one ever saw his work, he’d still be creating it for the sheer enjoyment of it. Jacobs is also the cartoonist for The Metro Spirit.
Sue St. Cloud — North Augusta artist Sue St. Cloud’s work is the only art you can throw through a window. She uses rocks as her canvas. “I chose them because it’s interesting to work with, and it’s unique,” St. Cloud said, and “for people to enjoy art in a lasting way, because these rocks will last.” People give her photographs of animals and she uses them to recreate images, particularly for collectors. She is the August artist of the month at the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce., and you can see her work at Elduet's Treasures of the World on Broad Street in downtown Augusta.
69. Metro’s Best Literary Luminary
Karin Gillespie — This former editor of Metro Augusta Parent magazine is the author of a series of books about Southern ladies that are set in the thinly-disguised CSRA: “Bet Your Bottom Dollar,” “A Dollar Short,” and “Dollar Daze.” She recently teamed up to write “The Sweet Potato Queens’ First Big-Ass Novel,” with author Jill Conner Browne. Next up: “Earthly Pleasures,” under the pen name Karen Neches. Visit karingillespie.com.
Naomi Williams — Retired schoolteacher Naomi Williams spent 42 years teaching English in public and private schools. She is a resident of Augusta, but was born in the lowcountry of South Carolina. She set her novel, “Two Rivers,” in the place of her birth. She is currently working on a second novel, “Jacob’s Daughter.”
Edward Cashin — A native of Augusta, Edward J. Cashin is the director of the Center for the Study of Georgia History at Augusta State University, as well as a beloved professor emeritus. He has authored 14 book on Georgia history, including his most recent, “William Bartram and the American Revolution on the Southern Frontier.” Other titles include: “The Story of Augusta,” “General Sherman’s Girlfriend and Other Stories About Augusta,” and “Paternalism in a Southern City: Race, Religion and Gender in Augusta, Georgia.”
Don Rhodes — An editor for Morris Communications, Rhodes is best known for “Ramblin’ Rhodes,” the longest running country music column in America, 36 years and still rambling. He’s been nominated repeatedly to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in the non-performer category. His works include: “Down Country Roads with Ramblin’ Rhodes: Collected Columns,” “Ty Cobb: Safe at Home,” and “Entertainment in Augusta and the CSRA.”
Rich Everitt — This Harvard-educated author has awards for investigative reporting, public service reporting and producing for his work in television journalism. He was the first television news reporter to infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan and return with video. His new book is “Falling Stars: Air Crashes that Filled Rock & Roll Heaven.” He lives in Augusta with his wife, Susan, and daughter, Ellen, and can be seen fronting the acoustic folk trio, The Blind Willies. Visit richeveritt.com.
70. Metro’s Best Local Performing Arts Troupe or Theater
Harlem High School — In the world of performing arts, high schools don’t play a starring role. Not so at Harlem High, where teacher Roy Lewis’ crew was invited to Scotland for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. “We have a very active drama group and we have a drama booster club that works very hard,” said Assistant Principal Ellen Lewis. “It’s a very nurturing supportive dept. that we have. Mr. Lewis brings out the best of everyone who comes through the dept. He’s been exceptional over the last 15 years.” Call 706-399-7978 or visit harlemdrama.com.
Le Chat Noir — In only its second season, the little theatre that could has the local arts community all shook up. From genre-bending “dramadies” like “Torch Song Trilogy” to button pushing plays like “Killer Joe,” this town’s never seen anything like this searing start-up. “I believe all forms of art dramatically — no pun intended — enhance the quality of life for any community,” said co-owner Richard Justice just before they opened their first season. “They are just a vital part of any community.” And after one season, the community can’t seem to do without them. Call 706-722-3322 or visit lcnaugusta.com.
Behind the Masque — This troupe of guerilla performing artists founded by the late Augusta Ballet dancer Jaime Burcham helped build First Friday with their merry band of fortune tellers, stilt walkers, jugglers and musicians. Look for them where you least expect them, or hire them for your own backyard circus! Visit behindthemasque.org.
<B>The Augusta Players<B> - Augusta boasts the oldest community theatre in the state of Georgia with this 62-year-old performing arts group, founded in 1945. Their annual production of “A Christmas Carol” is an area tradition, and with musicals like “Grease,” “Hello, Dolly” and “The Wizard of Oz,” along with a solid educational children’s theater, Broadway can be found on Broad Street. Visit augustaplayers.com.
The Imperial Theatre — Founded in 1918, this theatre is listed on the national register of historic places, having played host to greats like Charlie Chaplin and Anna Povlova. Now enjoying a resurrection as a movie theater and performing arts venue, it hosts sellout acts like Delbert McClinton and the upcoming show with the Avett Brothers. Visit imperialtheatre.com.
71. Metro’s Best Local Festival
Border Bash — This annual interspecies battle for dominance pits beast against fowl – or, more specifically, dawgs against cocks – while fundraising for the MCG Children’s Medical Center. More than 10,000 fans of the University of Georgia and the University of South Carolina enjoy friendly rivalry and… not-so-friendly whoopins on the field every year. The event annually raises more than $40,000 to benefit programs and services at the hospital. Visit borderbash.org.
A Day in the Country — For 22 years, the annual music, arts and crafts festival has highlighted both up-and-comers and headliners in Nashville’s music scene while raising money for the Augusta Sertoma Club & Sertoma Charities. The appeal? Casual, contemporary and, of course, country. It’s also a family affair, with children 6 and under admitted free with adult admission. Visit kicks99.com.
The Greek Festival — This popular free festival has been a cornerstone of cultural awareness in Augusta for decades. The two-day celebration has expanded to four days of Greek music, performing arts, arts and crafts, children’s activities and, of course, Greek food. This year, they’ve even added a drive-thru for convenience at the location of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church at 953 Telfair St. Visit holytrinityaugusta.com.
First Friday — The monthly street party in downtown Augusta is a hit with the locals and residents from around the region who come out for live entertainment, gallery shows, unique shopping and great food in the city’s historic center. Now run by the Greater Augusta Arts Council, the previously troubled festival has a bright future. Visit augustaarts.com or myspace.com/firstfridayaugusta.
Arts in the Heart — The second offering by the Greater Augusta Arts Council to make this list, this festival attracts upwards of 50,000 people a year to downtown Augusta to celebrate the visual, performing and cultural arts. The Young Artists Market and the Literary Village are just two of the more recent additions to this something-for-everyone extravaganza. Visit artsintheheart.com.
72. Metro’s Best Local Radio Personality
Bill West, The Bull — Bill West comes to Augusta by way of a country station in Savannah with his wife and 6-year-old son, all three country fans. It’s that appreciation of country music that makes West a good DJ. “I try not to get in the way of the music, and I also try and talk about what people in town are interested in. Simple as that,” he said. It’s probably why his mid-day show was recently ranked No. 1 in the ratings. Find him on your radio dial at 102.3, look for him at The Country Club or visit bullcountry.com.
Fattz & Cher, KISS 96.3 — For 13 years, listeners have tuned in to Kiss 96.3 for “Fattz and Cher’s Throw Back Classic” and “Topic Tuesdays” from 6-10 a.m. each weekday morning. Their blend of humor and local, national and entertainment news sits just right with their R&B playlist. Get up for the Old School Breakfast Party and stay for their advice on love, marriage, relationships, family and more. Visit 963kissfm.com.
Jordan Zeh — “Zeh” isn’t even close to being one of the most controversial personalities in local radio. Still, his show isn’t for everyone. “I think it’s a dark comedic show but at the same time I think it’s fun. It’s not my intention to offend everybody. I’m just going to say what I’m going to say, and if that offends you, I’m sorry. Somebody’s the target of every joke,” he said. He relishes the creative process that leads him to the on-air shows, and his ultimate goal is to write for film or television. Visit 95rock.com.
Harley Drew — Next year, this well-known morning host will mark his 50th anniversary on the air, and he hopes to simply keep on keepin’ on in his current position at WGAC News/Talk 580. “Radio is so much fun and personal. I love the direct communication you have with listeners and the feeling of involvement with the community,” he said. He keeps things upbeat and positive, and tried to treat each caller with respect. “There is nothing like talk radio and every day is a new adventure.” Visit wgac.com.
Austin Rhodes — For 15 years, Austin has been the commentator for WGAC News/Talk 580, and that’s the way he thinks it should be, especially with the advent of portable digital music players. “Radio is best used as a delivery device for news and information,” he said. He hopes to ride that wave for 30 more years. ‘Til then, he’ll keep getting to the bottom of the rumor mill, sorting out the news, scandal and intrigue that makes Augusta one of the most newsworthy towns around. Visit wgac.com.
73. Metro’s Best Local TV Reporter
Richard Rogers, WRDW, Channel 12 — Richard Rogers has been the co-host of WRDW’s evening news since 1993, with his award-winning partner Laurie Ott. But he’s no slouch himself. He’s won Best Specialized Reporting by the Georgia Associated Press twice, and Associated Press awards for Best Newscast, Best Feature and Best Series. When he isn’t playing drums on his vintage set, or spending time with his family, he enjoys a round of golf. The WRDW Web site relates that Rogers’ 7-iron once slipped out of his hand at the Augusta National and into the water on hole 16. “That club will spend many more nights at the National than I ever will,” he said. Visit wrdw.com.
Laurie Ott, WRDW, Channel 12 — She’s no stranger to awards, having been awarded Personality of the Year by the Georgia Association of Broadcasters two years in a row. But what really keeps her in the hearts of viewers of WRDW Channel 12 is her tireless work for children’s charities. Ott recently announced a step away from television, taking a job with Wounded Warriors. But we bet it won’t be the last Augusta will see of her. Visit wrdw.com.
Liz Hill, NBC Augusta, Channel 26 — This fresh-faced newbie to the area is far from inexperienced. She worked at WDRB in Louisville, FOX News in D.C. and interned for Speaker of the House J. Dennis Hastert on Capitol Hill. “What I love about television is that it’s now, it’s immediate and it’s always changing,” she said. She won Outstanding Broadcast Journalist from the Society of Professional Journalists, and Best of Broadcast from the Daily News. “I hope that through journalism I can in some way be a voice for the voiceless, kill off negative stereotypes and open up dialogue,” Hill said. Visit nbcaugusta.com.
Brigette Williams, NBC Augusta, Channel 26 — Williams is on a roll this year, having already won Best Anchor/Reporter from the Georgia Associated Press Broadcasters Association, “but I’m striving to do award-winning work daily,” she said. “Some people buy into glamorous stereotypes about TV, but if you look beyond hair, make-up and clothes, you’ll find storytellers. Finding, writing and telling a great story is my No. 1 priority.” She can currently be seen as the co-anchor of NBC Augusta News at 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. Visit nbcaugusta.com.
Brad Means, WJBJ, Channel 5 — A native of Jacksonville, Fla., Means earned a degree from the University of Alabama. He worked in Alabama, South Carolina and Georgia before joining WJBF in 1998 as anchor and assistant news director. He anchors the 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts. Visit wjbf.com.
74. Metro’s Best Photographer
Duane Brown — Augusta filmmaker Duane Brown has experimented with cameras most of his life. “When I was in high school I did a lot of unnecessary things in the dark room. I’d really stray away from the curriculum—overlapping negatives, cross-processing. I was a frustrating student.” Although he shoots primarily digital when working, he’s never afraid to go back to his teenage tendencies. “I still like to shoot 110 film for the grain. It’s beautiful. It can’t be replicated. Polaroid transfers, medium format, infrared e-6…the possibilities are endless. It’s a medium that can never be exhausted.” Visit duanebrown.com.
Barry Koenig — Barry Koenig Photography has been providing services to the Augusta area since 1997. The owner, Barry Koenig, has been photographing professionally for over twenty years. They experience in wedding, children, family, business and athletic photography. They are located at 375 Highland Avenue in Surrey Center. Call (706) 737-9290 or visit barrykoenigphotography.com.
Michael Johnson — Since taking early retirement from the Medical College of Georgia as a biomedical engineering technician, I have been able to further my interest in photography. My second career has taken me throughout the United States and abroad. My camera has opened doors for me and allowed me to meet countless celebrities, including Garth Brooks, Willie Nelson, BB King and several politicians, most notably, President Bill Clinton. I love Augusta, and photographing its people and events. It has been said that when people see me at an event, they know they're in the right place. "That Sightings Guy." Visit mejphoto.easyphotoview.com.
Kevin Jiminez — Kevin is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). Kevin also holds the Georgia Fellowship Degree (GFD) through the Georgia Professional Photographers Association (GPPA). Kevin Has won several awards with his portraits through the GPPA. Currently Kevin is on the Board of Directors of the GPPA as well as a member of the Southeastern Professional Photographers Association (SEPPA). Visit kevinjphoto.com.
Tim Conway — Tim Conway Photography has been providing photography services to families and businesses for over 20 years. Tim’s portrait division captures families and children in outdoor environmental locations and unique in studio B/W portraiture. His corporate division handles the photography needs of local companies as well as Regional and National clients. Excellent customer service and quality have made Tim Conway Photography an Augusta favorite. Call 706-729-9900 or visit timconwayphotography.com.
75. Metro’s Best Athlete from the CSRA
William Avery — William Avery, born in Augusta, was just a sophomore at Duke University when he was drafted No. 14 in the 1999 draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Avery was named Honorable Mention All-America by the Associated Press in 1999, after he helped lead Duke to the 1999 NCAA Championship game.
Charles Howell, III— This Augusta native is currently ranked 8th on points standing in the FedEx Cup and 28th in the world on the PGA tour. In his career, he has won nearly $15 million. At one point this season, ESPN exclaimed, “Howell is possibly the best player in the world right now other than Tiger.”
Vaughn Taylor — This Augusta native has posted three victories and 17 top-10 finishes in just over 100 PGA events. He’s won more than $5 million, yet with all the wealth and fame golf is bringing Taylor, he and his family still reside in Augusta. Taylor told the Metro Spirit, “I love Augusta, and the people. This is my home. I have my family and everything I need right here.”
William Perry — William “The Refrigerator” Perry, born in Aiken, S.C., had a nine-year stint in the NFL. He was a first-round draft pick in the 1985 draft. His Super Bowl ring remains the largest ever made. Now retired, “The Fridge” remains available for meet and greets, autograph signings and special appearances.
Grady Blanchard — With a school record 14 wins in the 1994 season, he helped Evans High win a state championship. He went on to pitch for Georgia Southern and Augusta State University. He holds a Peach Belt Conference record for most passed balls.
76. Metro’s Best Local Rabble-rouser
Marion Williams — Whether it’s a drag strip, a vote for mayor pro tem or the city administrator’s hard drive, Augusta Commissioner Marion Williams manages to find a place at the center of the controversy.
Woody Merry — The driving force behind CSRA Help, Woody Merry has fought for new procedures on the Augusta Commission, against the drag strip and against moving people out of Hyde Park.
Austin Rhodes — WGAC talk show host Austin Rhodes has made a career out of controversy. This year he was picketed by protesters yet his station still comes out No. 1 in the ratings.
Rev. Randy Payton — The downtown street ministry of Rev. Randy Payton works with the physically handicapped, the elderly and children at risk. And he’s looking for sponsors.
What’s a rabble-rouser? — We just wrote the questions. You made up this answer.
If you would like for us to include your photos with the ballot over the next month, e-mail a high-resolution photograph to stacey.hudson@metrospirit.com. | |
|
| |
Comments (0)
