the LocaL, March 2026

PAWS Humane Society

The Yard Officially Opened February 27

ART & MUSEUMS Calendar

COLUMBUS JAZZ SOCIETY

How the Jazz Rhythm Section Builds the Music from the Ground Up

AROUND TOWN Calendar

CineForge Co-op

Actors Spotlight: Emerging Talents On Stage & Screen

A Tribute to Brian Waters

Mixed Doubles

A Portrait of Connection at The Do Good Fund

Still Boxing

Jerry Farber Turns 88 at The Loft

GiGi’s Playhouse

Building a Place to Belong

As I’ve worked through the stories in this month’s issue, a quiet theme kept rising to the surface: showing up. Not the glamorous kind. Not the highlight-reel version. Just the steady, consistent act of being there.

We honor my friend Brian Waters in these pages, and in doing so, I was reminded how much presence truly matters. While gathering photos for his tribute, I came across an image of him on the mic, haloed in a soft white haze, doing what he loved. At the very bottom, he had written, “Thank you. Good night.” It felt simple, almost casual. And yet somehow it said everything. A performer’s sign-off. A gracious closing. In remembering Brian, we’re reminded that showing up for your friends, for your community, and for your calling leaves a mark that lingers long after the lights dim.

On a different stage entirely, Jerry Farber is celebrating his 88th birthday the way he always has—by stepping up to the mic at The Loft and making people laugh. In the process of telling Jerry’s story, I had the chance to talk to Buddy Nelms about those early Loft days and what it took to build something that would last. Nothing about it was flashy. It was built the way most meaningful things are built—through risk, belief, and the decision to keep going. Eighty-eight years in, Jerry is still saying yes to the stage. That kind of longevity isn’t about spotlight. It’s about commitment.

That same spirit runs throughout this issue. Paul Rowe shines a light on the next generation finding their footing in local theater, young performers learning their craft one rehearsal at a time. In our jazz column, The Engine of Swing: How the Jazz Rhythm Section Builds the Music from the Ground Up, we’re reminded that what carries the melody forward is often the steady foundation beneath it. As we look ahead to the Annual Jazz Soirée on April 4—where local jazz legends will be honored—we’re reminded once again that the music continues because people continue to show up. Advance tickets are available now at GetLocalTix.com.

You’ll also find our calendar packed with opportunities to do exactly that—show up. Concerts, exhibitions, performances, gatherings. None of them happen by accident. They happen because people commit to creating something and inviting the rest of us in.

This month also brings meaningful growth for our region with the expansion of GiGi’s Playhouse and the opening of two Down Syndrome Achievement Centers serving families across Georgia and Alabama. On March 21, World Down Syndrome Day, the community will gather for the GiGi’s 5K Dash for Down Syndrome. It’s a powerful reminder that inclusion and support don’t happen in theory—they happen when people show up for one another.

At The Do Good Fund, Mixed Doubles, a community portrait series by Teri Slotkin, invites everyday citizens to step in front of the lens and become part of the story themselves. It’s a simple but powerful act: standing there and saying, “I’m here.” You don’t have to be famous. You just have to show up.

Grief and celebration sit side by side in these pages. Legacy and new beginnings share the same space. The steady rhythm underneath it all is presence.

I’m grateful to keep showing up for this work each month— to build these pages with intention, to represent the businesses who trust us well, and to honor the stories that shape this city. None of it is accidental. None of it is taken lightly.

Thank you for reading.

Thank you for supporting local.

And thank you for showing up.

Monica Jones Publisher, The LocaL

facebook.com/thelocalcolumbusga issuu.com/thelocalcolumbus

What We Are All About.

The mission of the LocaL magazine is to bring you the best in art, music, food and fun from Columbus and the surrounding area. Locally owned and operated, we work to improve and expand community relationships through promoting positive events, people and stories. When good things are happening, we will be here to help you get involved. Our monthly print issues feature stories and events that comprise and drive the ongoing surge toward a more beautiful community. This magazine exists because we who work on it believe in actively engaging with community improvement, and we invite you to join us, not only by reading these pages, but also by taking part in any of the many wonderful events we feature.

The Yard

Officially Opened February 27th

BRINGING A NEW

Columbus has a new place to gather, connect, and let the zoomies run wild. The Yard officially opened its gates on February 27, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the community into this one-of-a-kind social space designed for dogs and their people.

The Yard was created with a simple idea in mind: dogs deserve a safe, engaging place to run and play, and their humans deserve a welcoming space to relax, socialize, and build community.

From open play areas that encourage healthy exercise to comfortable spaces for people to gather and unwind, The Yard offers something for everyone. Carefully planned features allow dogs of different sizes

and temperaments to feel comfortable and confident. Safety and positive socialization are top priorities, helping create an atmosphere where both pets and their people can feel at ease. Whether your pup loves to sprint full speed with new friends or prefers to explore at their own pace, there’s room to do it here.

For pet parents, it’s a chance to meet fellow dog lovers, swap stories, share training tips, and enjoy the simple joy that comes from seeing a happy, tired dog at the end of the day. In a world that often feels rushed

and disconnected, The Yard offers a place to slow down and connect face to face.

Opening day on February 27 marked the beginning of what we hope will become a vibrant hub for connection. We’ve already seen joyful reunions, new friendships forming, and plenty of happy, tired dogs heading home after a full day of fun. The energy has been contagious, and the sense of community is already taking root.

The Yard is built around belonging. We are proud to bring this concept to Columbus and look forward to watching it grow into a gathering place that strengthens the bond between dogs and their humans while bringing neighbors together through their shared love of four-legged family members.

The park is open at 1432 5th Avenue Monday through Sunday, from 6am – 9pm, with staffed hours for our coffee and beverage bar varying depending on the day. We offer yearly, monthly, and daily memberships for your dog – and humans are always free.

We invite the community to come see what The Yard is all about. Whether you’re a long-time dog owner or new to the world of wagging tails, there’s a place for you here.

½ off Tuesdays at the Columbus Collective Museums Immerse yourself in a maze of thrifting and discovery. Originally the Lunch Box Museum, now also the Royal Crown Cola Museum, The Chero-Cola Museum, The Nehi Drink Museum, The Georgia Radio Museum, The Tom Huston Peanut Museum, a Car Museum and more. Over 1,000 lunch boxes will just get you started. Local Readers get ½ off their ticket price every Tuesday. Open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday - Saturday , 3218 Hamilton Road, Columbus Tours at the Springer Springer Tours is an unforgettable evening of history, mystery, and the unexplained. Are you brave enough to face the possible ghosts that haunt our historic theater? Please be aware that this is a 45-minute walking tour that will involve navigating multiple staircases within the Springer. For ages 12 and up. Tickets are available at their Box Office at 706-327-3688. 8 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 11 p.m. , Springer Opera House, 103 East 10th Street, Columbus

Sketching Under the Skylight

Come and join us for our monthly figure drawing series to catch the creative spirit while drawing under the Center’s skylights. This free event happens every second Thursday of the month and is open to the public of all ages and skill levels. Just bring your own supplies. The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

Exhibition: America Fantastica: Memories, Dreams, and Chance

Step into a surreal, interactive exhibition inspired by key moments in American Surrealism, featuring immersive elements and a hands-on exquisite corpse drawing experience. Daily, The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Drop In Tour:

Celebrating the Columbus Museum Collection

Join a COMU docent for a guided tour highlighting The Columbus Museum’s permanent collection. No registration required. Every Saturday, 2 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Look at Lunch

Spend your lunch break at COMU with a 20-minute gallery presentation followed by lunch in the courtyard. Bring your food or purchase from the Museum Café. Every 2nd Tuesday, 12:15 p.m. - 12:45 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

A Bad Case of Stripes

Springer Opera House presents a lively musical adaptation of David Shannon’s beloved book, following Camilla as she learns the importance of embracing her true colors. February 28–March 8 , various dates and times, Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus

Exhibition: Bo Bartlett: Paintings from the HomeFront Georgia-born artist Bo Bartlett has been heard to whisper in confidence that he is unofficially “retiring”. No one knows what that means or what it may look like, but apparently work is continuing in the privacy of his studios both in Georgia and in Maine. Through - March 14 , The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

Mixed Doubles: Community Portrait Series

The Do Good Fund transforms its gallery into a portrait studio, inviting pairs from across Columbus to be photographed in celebration of human connection. Sessions are free, open to all ages, a nd each pair receives a copy of their portrait. March 3–11, The Do Good Fund Gallery, 111 12th Street, Uptown Columbus

Making Bank:

Money and Columbus Financial Institutions

This exhibition utilizes artifacts in the Museum’s permanent collection and object loans from individuals and local financial institutions. It also features historic coins and banknotes, placing a special focus on the artistry and symbolism of designs used on these commonplace objects. Through - March 26 . The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Exhibition: Elizabeth Brim

A homecoming exhibition honoring Columbus native Elizabeth Brim, a pioneer of contemporary blacksmithing known for transforming traditionally feminine objects into powerful works forged in iron. Public reception March 26, 6–8 p.m. , with a screening of Iron Pearls at 7:30 p.m. On view through April 25 , The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

Exhibition: We Are the Drum and the Scribe: Black Art in America Collection

An exhibition highlighting works from the Black Art in America Collection, celebrating and preserving the visual legacy of African American artists while amplifying voices across generations. On view through May 16 , The Bo Bartlett Center, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus Exhibition: Georgia’s Fall Line

This exhibition explores the industrial and military history of Georgia’s Fall Line communities, highlighting manufacturing, textile mills, trade networks, and regional development through works from The Columbus Museum and partner institutions statewide. March 3–August 2 , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Art Unwrapped: American Portraits

Explore the history and evolution of portrait painting in America with Jonathan F. Walz, Ph.D., Curator of American Art. Discover how artists have captured the essence of their subjects, from early colonial figures to contemporary icons. Thursday, March 5, 5:30 - 6:15 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Exhibition:

BOGO Mysticism, Works by Cooper Holoweski

This exhibition explores contemporary mysticism and consumer culture through vibrant, experimental works that blend playful symbolism with the uncanny. Reception March 10, 5:30–7 p.m. , Corn Center for the Visual Arts, Illges Gallery. On view March 9–April 18, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. , CSU Illges Gallery, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

CSU Student Juried Art Exhibition

The 2026 CSU Student Juried Art Exhibition showcases outstanding work by students across the Department of Art. Selected through a competitive juried process, the exhibition highlights diverse mediums, innovative ideas, and emerging voices in contemporary art, offering a glimpse into the next generation of artists. March 9April 18, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. , CSU Schley Gallery 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

The Stinky Cheese Man

Griffin Theatre Company brings a fast-paced, 60-minute adaptation of The Stinky Cheese Man & Other Fairly Stupid Tales, flipping classic fairy tales into a playful, absurd adventure for kids and families. T uesday, March 10, 9:30–11:30 a.m. , RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Artspeak: Hannah Smith and Tia Ricks

This reading event features journals, essays, and book excerpts on art theory, philosophy, and artists’ lives, presented by faculty and students from the Department of Art. The program aims to rekindle the importance of reading and discussion as vital practices for reflection, dialogue, and connection within the arts community. Thursday, March 12, 12:15 - 1:15 p.m. , CSU Illges Gallery, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

Open Rehearsal with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra

Attend a free, family-friendly rehearsal as the orchestra prepares for “North vs. South: The Battle of the Baroque,” offering a behind-the-scenes look at the ensemble. Saturday, March 14, 2:30–5 p.m. , RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus North vs. South: The Battle of the Baroque

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra performs works by Vivaldi, Corelli, Torelli, and Handel in an evening program contrasting the brilliance of Baroque Europe, with a reception during intermission. Saturday, March 14, 7:30 p.m. , RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Exhibition: Monica Ikegwu: Through the Veil

In her first solo museum-organized exhibition, Monica Ikegwu presents oil portraits exploring themes of concealment and revelation, often veiling her subjects to question visibility and identity. March 15–July 19 , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Shen Yun

Based in New York, Shen Yun’s mission is to revive the best of 5,000 years of civilization. Combining the expressivity and athleticism of classical Chinese dance with traditional stagecraft, an East-West live orchestra, and innovative backdrops, Shen Yun is being hailed as a breakthrough in performing arts. This is what you have been waiting for. Tuesday, March 17, 7:30 p.m. , RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Hairspray the Musical

It’s 1962 in Baltimore, and the lovable plus-size teen, Tracy Turnblad, has only one desire – to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob, Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network... all without denting her ‘do! March 20 - 29 , Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus Mixed Doubles Exhibition Opening Reception Celebrate the community portrait series capturing the people who make Columbus what it is during the exhibition’s opening reception. Saturday, March 21, 5 p.m. , The Do Good Fund Gallery, 111 12th Street, Uptown Columbus

The Thorn

An immersive production depicting the story of Christ through music, drama, aerial acts, dance, and special effects, presenting a sweeping portrayal of love, sacrifice, and redemption. March 24 & 25, 7 p.m. , RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Want to see your event listed here? Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com

THE ENGINE OF SWING

By Arreasha Z Lawrence

How the Jazz Rhythm Section BUILDS THE MUSIC FROM THE GROUND UP

When audiences applaud a blazing saxophone solo or a trumpeter’s high-note finale, they are responding to the most visible spark in jazz performance. But beneath every soaring improvisation lies something less flashy and far more essential: the rhythm section.

Composed primarily of piano, bass, and drums, the rhythm section is the engine room of jazz — generating pulse, harmony, momentum, and mood. Without it, even the most virtuosic solo would drift untethered. With it, a simple melody can ignite.

From The Seed (now at 33 West 14th Street) to concert halls at Schwob School of Music and around the world, the rhythm section has shaped not just how jazz sounds, but how it feels.

At the center of the rhythm section stands the bass. Whether upright acoustic or electric in more modern

settings, the bassist provides the harmonic and rhythmic backbone of the ensemble.

In much of traditional and swing-era jazz, bassists “walk” — playing steady quarter notes that outline the chord progression while creating forward motion. This walking bass line acts like a heartbeat, grounding the band and guiding soloists through harmonic changes.

“It’s the glue,” many musicians say. And it’s true:

the music with syncopated chord voicings, responding to soloists in real time. Comping became a conversation: a sharp chord here to encourage a phrase, a subtle voicing there to shift the mood.

In modal jazz, pioneered by Miles Davis and others, pianists often created spacious harmonic landscapes, allowing soloists more freedom. In every era, however, the piano’s role remains constant: shaping harmony, reinforcing rhythm, and supporting the story unfolding in the melody.

Behind the kit sits the drummer — the architect of swing. To the untrained ear, jazz drumming might seem chaotic, but it is anything but. At its core lies a steady ride cymbal pattern — a flowing, uneven pulse which gives jazz its signature swing feel. Unlike the rigid backbeat of rock music, jazz rhythm breathes. It pushes and pulls, creating tension and release.

The drummer balances subtlety and power. The hi-hat snaps closed on beats two and four, reinforcing swing’s lilt. The snare and bass drum add accents known as “dropping bombs” in bebop — unpredictable hits that energize the music and challenge soloists.

Rather than merely marking time, jazz drummers engage in dialogue. A drummer might echo a saxophonist’s rhythmic phrase or build intensity beneath a trumpet’s crescendo. This interactive style transforms

the bass connects harmony to rhythm. By emphasizing chord tones and subtle passing notes, the bassist not only keeps time but also clarifies the structure of the tune. If a soloist experiments melodically, the bass ensures the band never loses its way.

In bebop and modern jazz, bass lines can grow more intricate, responding conversationally to the soloist. But even in its most adventurous forms, the bass maintains one crucial job: keeping the foundation solid.

If the bass anchors harmony, the piano gives it color. The jazz pianist occupies a uniquely versatile position. With ten fingers capable of harmony, rhythm, and melody at once, the piano bridges the gap between rhythm and lead instrument.

In early jazz and stride piano styles, players such as James P. Johnson and Fats Waller used the left hand to maintain a strong rhythmic pulse while the right hand danced through melodies and embellishments. As jazz evolved, so did piano technique.

By the bebop era, pianists like Bud Powell refined the art of “comping” — short for accompanying. Rather than continuously playing full chords, they punctuated

the rhythm section into a living, responsive organism.

Great drummers — from Max Roach to Art Blakey to Elvin Jones — expanded the instrument’s expressive range. They demonstrated that rhythm in jazz is not background noise; it is storytelling.

What distinguishes a jazz rhythm section from its counterparts in other genres is its interactivity. In classical music, accompaniment often follows strict notation. In jazz, the rhythm section improvises alongside soloists. Every performance is a unique collaboration.

The bassist might alter a line to reflect a soloist’s unexpected turn. The pianist may introduce a reharmonized chord to spark new ideas. The drummer could shift dynamics to build anticipation before a climactic phrase. This interplay creates elasticity. The music stretches and compresses without breaking. Tempo may subtly fluctuate, guided by collective intuition rather than a mechanical metronome.

In small ensembles — trios and quartets — this conversational quality becomes especially apparent. In a piano trio, for example, the absence of horns means the rhythm section becomes the main voice. Bass and

drums do more than accompany; they shape melody and structure in equal measure.

Beyond structure, the rhythm section determines mood. A lightly brushed snare drum and gentle bass line can create intimacy. A forceful walking bass and driving ride cymbal can transform the same tune into a high-energy swing number. Even silence — a brief pause in comping or a momentary drop in volume — can heighten drama.

Dynamics, texture, and tempo shifts originate largely within the rhythm section. While soloists often command attention, it is the rhythm section that guides emotional pacing.

Consider the difference between cool jazz and hard bop. In cool jazz, rhythm sections favor restraint, subtlety, and space. In hard bop, they lean into bluesy grooves and assertive rhythms. The contrast demonstrates how foundational players shape genre identity itself.

As jazz evolved, so did the rhythm section.

During the swing era, big bands required tight coordination and steady grooves for dancers. The rhythm section’s primary role was propulsion. Bebop reduced ensemble size and increased harmonic complexity. Rhythm players adapted by becoming more interactive and rhythmically daring.

The 1960s brought freer forms. In avant-garde jazz, bassists and drummers sometimes abandoned traditional timekeeping, exploring texture and abstraction instead. Jazz fusion of the 1970s introduced electric instruments and rock-inspired rhythms, expanding tonal possibilities. The rhythm section grew louder, more groove-oriented, and sometimes funk-driven.

Perhaps the rhythm section’s greatest paradox is its relative invisibility. Audiences may leave a performance humming a horn player’s solo, unaware of the intricate coordination beneath it.

Yet musicians know the truth. A weak rhythm section can sink a performance; a strong one can elevate even modest melodies into something transcendent. The finest rhythm players listen constantly. They anticipate shifts before they happen. They leave space when needed and step forward when called upon. Their success lies not in domination but in collaboration. At its heart, jazz is about freedom within

structure. The rhythm section provides that structure — steady but flexible, grounded yet responsive. Piano, bass, and drums are the soil from which improvisation grows. They are the pulse that makes toes tap and heads nod. They are the reason jazz swings.

On Saturday, April 4 at 7 p.m., the engine takes center stage. The Annual Soiree honors the Jazz Legends who have carried the rhythm section forward — the quiet architects of swing whose work keeps the music grounded and alive. Join us in celebrating the heartbeat behind the horns. Tickets available at GetLocalTix.com and ColumbusJazzSociety.com. u

Weekly Swing Dance

Monday scaries? Not anymore. Come learn how to swing dance and twirl your cares away every Monday night at First Presbyterian Church in Uptown Columbus. 6:30-7 Beginner lesson (free with admission), 7-8:30 Dancing. Every Monday, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. , First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbu s

Tuesday Trivia with April Norris

Fun trivia with an even funner host. Come out to The Bottom every Tuesday and work your brain, while enjoying some tasty cocktails and food from your friends from the Wicked Hen. Every Tuesday, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. , The Bottom (upstairs from the Wicked Hen), 1350 13th Street, Columbus

Story Time with Grammy Trish

Join us for Story Time with Grammy Trish where she’ll read charming children books and engage with your little ones. Every Wednesday at 11 a.m. , Columbus Bound Bookshop, 1328 13th Street, Columbus

Sweet South Music Revival @ The Loft

Enjoy music of the American South. Gospel, Blues, Soul, Funk, Zydeco, Jazz, Americana, and more. With Jesse Shelby & Jason Ezzell. Wednesday nights, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. , The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus

Crown and Comedy Night @ The Loft

It’s always laughs at the Loft as our favorite hostess with the mostest Lil’ Bit takes the stage to introduce the best comedians around. Every Thursday, 7:30 p.m. , The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus

Live Music @ The Bottom

Good friends and oxymoronic experiences. With live music most Wed, Thurs and Friday’s. Check their social media for the latest updates. Bottom’s UP! Open Monday - Saturday, 4 p.m.12 a.m. , The Bottom, 1350 13th Street, above the Wicked Hen Restaurant, near Lakebottom Park, Columbus

Second Saturday Tours at Historic Westville Village

A 45-minute site tour led by our Director of Programs and Education. These tours will provide a great overview of Historic Westville Village and are free with museum admission. Tour begins at the Thornton Visitor Center. School groups and large organizations can contact us at education@westville.org. Every 2nd Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. , Historic Westville, 3557 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus

Salsa Sundays!

Grow your dance skills with BailaMo in a fun, judgment-free environment. Offering Beginner / And Intermediate. Drop ins are welcome. Every Sunday, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. , Art of Yoga, 4924 Armour Road, Columbus Full Moon Market

This is not me-maw’s craft market. Catch the vibe with our select makers and curators. Food trucks and always good vibes. Tuesday, March 3, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. , The Vibe on 6th, 1301 6th Avenue, Columbus

Full Moon Ride

We will ride at a conversational pace with just a few miles to our destination. We’ll have some great music and will stop at a local spot to grab a beverage. Rentals are available but be sure to reserve in advance. Tuesday, March 3, 8 p.m. , Ride On Bikes, 1036 Broadway, Columbus

Workshop:

An Introduction to Mokuhanga with Florence Neal

Explore the fundamentals of Japanese water-based woodblock printing in this hands-on workshop covering carving, inking, and printing techniques. Registration is required through the Illges Gallery. March 3–5, 1:30–4 p.m. , CSU Illges Gallery, 921 Front Avenue, Columbus

Food & The Soul of America Series:

Feeding Washington’s Army

Senior Historian Ricardo A. Herrera explores how Washington’s army survived the brutal winter at Valley Forge and the

logistical fight to prevent starvation during the Revolutionary War. Wednesday, March 4, 6 p.m. , Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

David Diamond Reading & Recital Series

Students from Columbus State University’s creative writing program and Schwob School of Music come together for an evening pairing original literary works with live guitar performance by students of Andrew Zohn. Wednesday, March 4, 6–7 p.m. , Studio Theatre at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus

Bay and Barrel: A Southern Bourbon & Wine Dinner

A four-course dinner paired with selections from Frey Ranch Distillery and curated wines by Master Sommelier Michael McNeil, serving as a preliminary event for Toast of the Town. Tickets available at ToastColumbus.com. Thursday, March 5, 6–9 p.m. , 11th and Bay Southern Table, 1050 Bay Avenue, Columbus Toast of the Town

The annual Grand Tasting showcases local and regional breweries, distilleries, wineries, spirits, and restaurants for one evening of sampling and celebration. Friday, March 6, 7–10 p.m. , Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus

Liberty Theatre Walk/Run 5K

This family-friendly 5K invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to run, jog, or walk in support of the historic Liberty Theatre. Proceeds benefit arts, cultural programming, and community events in Columbus. Saturday, March 7, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. , Liberty Theatre, 813 8th Avenue, Columbus Peachy Eats Food Truck Festival

The Peach Shoppe and Street Food Saturdays kick off their 2026 collaboration with a full-scale food fest featuring a wide variety of savory and sweet food truck favorites. Come hungry and enjoy a day built around great eats and community vibes. Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. , The Peach Shoppe & Co., 900 Front Avenue, Columbus Wheels and Deals x Vibe on 6th

This special collaboration market brings together crafters, vintage vendors, collectors, and small businesses for a curated mix of thrifted finds, handmade goods, retro treasures, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Saturday, March 7, 12–6 p.m. , The Vibe on 6th, 1301 6th Avenue, Columbus

Urban Mountain Bike Race at Ride On Bikes

Riders tackle a downtown course featuring obstacles, wooden banked turns, jumps, and laps through the shop and courtyards. Timed heats determine the top three finalists based on laps completed. Saturday, March 7, 1 p.m. , Ride On Bikes, 1036 Broadway, Columbus

Haunting at Old Seale Courthouse

Experience an evening of ghostly tales and paranormal exploration at the historic Old Russell County Courthouse, led by Stacy Brown Jr. of OutKast Paranormal and presented by Squatch Seekers of the South. Saturday, March 7, 7 p.m. , Old Russell County Courthouse, 5 Jackson Street, Seale Artful Babies (Ages 6-24 months)

Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, this drop-in program encourages early learning through play, discovery, and shared experiences in a museum setting. Saturday, March 7, & Tuesday, March 10, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. , The Columbus, Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

After School Art Break

Join us in the Studio each month for a new artmaking project inspired by an object from the COMU collection. Explore different materials, spark your imagination, and take home a one-of-a-kind creation—no registration required. Tuesday, March 10, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Michael Twitty: Recipes from the American South

James Beard Award-winning author Michael W. Twitty leads a lively discussion on the origins, myths, and evolving legacy of Southern food, exploring its stories, traditions, and cultural impact. Thursday, March 12, 6–7 p.m. , Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Dancing Stars of Columbus

Local leaders will take the stage for the 17th annual Dancing Stars of Columbus, benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association, Georgia Chapter. Thirteen community “Stars” are paired with 13 professional dancers to compete in a one-night gala dance

competition. Supporters can vote online to help raise funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Thursday, March 12, 6 p.m. , Columbus Convention and Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus

So Long and Goodnight: Emo-themed Friday the 13th Bash

Enjoy music, corn hole, food, and prizes, including awards for the top three Emo outfits. The Buzz Board and Fizzed & Fueled will be on site, and Light & Company Salon will offer Emo hair extensions next door. Friday, March 13, 2 p.m. , 1414 33rd Street, Columbus

St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a five-stop bar crawl featuring drink specials, free swag, and a cash prize for best dressed leprechaun. $20 wristbands grant access to participating locations including Stirrup Trouble, The Tap, Whiskey Rail, The Hooch, and 18th Amendment. S aturday, March 14, 2–8 p.m. , Participating Bars in Uptown Columbus Naturalist Symposium at Columbus Botanical Garden

A three-day celebration of nature featuring Science & Sips with a photography showcase and film screening, a regional Speaker Day with a keynote by Janisse Ray, and a family-friendly Kids Day bioblitz exploring birds, bugs, and blooms. Friday, March 13, 5–8 p.m.; Saturday, March 14, 8:45 a.m.–2 p.m.; Sunday, March 15, 1–4 p.m. , Columbus Botanical Garden, 3603 Weems Road, Columbus Velcro Pygmies

Known for their high-energy performances, crowd-pleasing rock classics, and party vibes that keep the dance floor full and the drinks flowing. This is the kind of band that turns a regular night out into a full-blown rock show. Grab you r tickets now at GetLocalTix.com. Friday, March 13, 9 p.m., The Varsity Sports Bar & Grill, 3745 Highway 80, Phenix City Tulip Fest 2026 at Fields of Grace

Celebrate spring among 60,000 blooming tulips with floral displays, artisan vendors, food trucks, games, and STEAM activities for kids. This family-friendly festival supports Fields of Grace’s retreats and restorative programs for women and caregivers. March 8–9, 15–16, and 22–23, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. , Fields of Grace Flower Farm, Ashmore Road, Shiloh Grits & Greens Live at The Loft

A four-piece blending rock and roll with a soulful, jam-driven edge takes the stage for a late-night set built on dynamic musicianship and gritty grooves. Friday, March 13, 9:30 p.m., The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Cookies with the Easter Bunny

Make this a morning of family fun. Enjoy cookie decorating, face painting, arts and crafts, meeting the Ea ster Bunny, and more. Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus Mini Makers (Ages 2–4)

This drop-in program invites little artists to explore new materials and create mini masterpieces while encouraging imagination and hands-on learning. Designed for ages 2–4. March 14 & 17, 10:30–11:30 a.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Yoga at the Museum

Start with a short mindfulness exercise then relax with a gentle, all-levels yoga session led by Sue Tomkiewicz. Some yoga mats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is required. Saturday, March 14, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus Mardi Gras Parade and Festival

The Fountain City Mardi Gras Association brings its 9th annual celebration to Uptown with vendors, food trucks, youth attractions, and a parade that loops along Broadway so you can catch it twice. A 5K run and 1-mile walk kick off the day. Attendance is free; som e activities require registration. Saturday, March 14, 12 noon, Broadway between 10th and 12th Streets, Uptown Columbus

Adult Workshop: Surrealist Shadowboxes

Create a one-of-a-kind shadowbox inspired by America Fantastica: Memories, Dreams, and Chance while exploring Surrealist concepts through hands-on design. Materials are provided; participants are welcome to bring small personal trinkets to incorporate. Saturday, March 14, 2–4 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Big Dog St. Paddy’s 5K

Saturday, March 14, 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. , 1100 block of Broadway, Columbus

AJ Robinson Live in Concert

Local 14-year-old singer-songwriter AJ Robinson takes the stage for a high-energy, full-band community concert featuring original songs and crowd-favorite covers. This family-friendly evening is free to attend, with food concessions available for purchase. Saturday, March 14, 7 p.m. , Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 901 Front Avenue, Columbus State of Emergency Concert

(YFN Lucci + Finesse2Tymes & more)

A high-energy hip-hop concert featuring YFN Lucci with Finesse2Tymes, BunnaB, Belly Gang Kushington, and more in one stacked lineup. Doors open early; clear bag policy enforced and jacket recommended as the venue can be chilly. Saturday, March 14, 8 p.m. , Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street, Columbus

Dixie Red Live at The Loft

The band returns to one of their favorite downtown stages for a late-night set, bringing their signature sound back to Broadway for another weekend crowd. Saturday, March 14, 9:40 p.m. , The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Say “I Do” at COMU Bridal Show

Meet local vendors and explore venue options while planning the details of your big day. Admission is $5 per person. Sunday, March 15, 1–3 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Lucky to Be Local Adult Prom

Stirrup Trouble hosts a community-focused adult prom celebrating local small businesses, with awards presented to five standout businesses instead of a traditional prom court. Nominations are open, with finalists a nnounced March 5 and voting continuing through 9 p.m. the night of the event. March 19, 8 p.m. , Stirrup Trouble, 900 Front Avenue, Columbus

Friends of the Libraries Annual Spring Book Sale

Browse a wide selection of gently used books across genres. All books are priced at $2 or less, with cash, check, debit, and credit cards accepted. March 20–21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; March 22, 1:30–5 p.m. , Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Road, Columbus

Heroes of America Marathon

Runners and spectators gather to honor American heroes during this annual race featuring a marathon, half marathon, and 5K. Saturday, March 21, 8 a.m. , 800 Front Avenue, Columbus

GiGi’s Playhouse Chattahoochee Valley 5K

Join runners, walkers, and families for a community 5K supporting the launch of GiGi’s Playhouse Achievement Centers in the Chattahoochee Valley. Proceeds help provide free educational and therapeutic programs for individuals with Down syndrome, promoting acceptance and inclusion for all. Saturday, March 21, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. , Woodruff Park, 1000 Bay Avenue, Columbus

“Driving Out” Domestic Violence Car, Jeep & Motorcycle Show

This family-friendly car show welcomes vehicles and spectators alike, with 100% of proceeds supporting Hope Harbour and its work serving victims of domestic violence. Admission is free; vehicle registration is $35 in advance or $40 day of show. Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. , Rally Point Harley-Davidson, Columbus

Spring Kickoff Outdoor Market

Shop more than 200 local businesses at this annual outdoor market featuring live music, food trucks, and seasonal specials. Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m. , 2301 Airport Thruway, Columbus

UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball

An elegant evening of celebration and philanthropy benefiting UNCF, bringing community leaders together to raise scholarship funds that help students pursue higher education. Saturday, March 21, 7 p.m. , Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus 7th Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival

More than 40 singer-songwriters perform over 80 shows across seven intimate venues throughout historic downtown Opelika, creating a multi-day listening-room experience

for dedicated music fans. March 26–29 (begins at 8 p.m. on March 26 and concludes at 5:30 p.m. on March 29) , Downtown Opelika, 827 S Railroad Avenue, Opelika

Micro Wrestling

A full-scale professional wrestling show featuring an allstar cast under five feet tall takes over Chattabrewchee for an evening of high-energy matches, including singles bouts, a venue-wide brawl, and a championship rumble main event. This all-ages event also includes post-show meet-and-greets and autographs. Friday, March 27, 7–9 p.m. , Chattabrewchee Southern Brew House, 1301 6th Avenue, Columbus Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Ceremony

The National Infantry Museum hosts a public ceremony honoring the service and legacy of Vietnam War veterans, featuring guest speaker CSM (R) Martin Celestine. The weekend also includes guided tours and free screenings of Vietnam-era films. Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. , National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus

WILD FLOW HER Fine Art Show & Pop-Up Market

This International Women’s Month celebration features 30+ vendors, local art, food trucks, and live music in a communityforward downtown gathering. An artist reception with wine and light bites kicks things off the evening prior. Artist Reception: March 27, 6–8 p.m.; Main Event: March 28, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. , Stirrup Trouble, 900 Front Avenue, Columbus Family Saturday at the Museum

Families are invited to explore the museum together during this monthly drop-in program featuring hands-on activities inspired by the permanent collection and special exhibitions. Each visit offers new ways to engage with art and history in a fun, interactive setting for all ages. Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.–12 noon , Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus

Junior League of Columbus Character Breakfast

Families are invited to enjoy breakfast alongside beloved princesses, superheroes, and other favorite characters, with photo opportunities and interactive experiences throughout the morning. Proceeds support the Junior League’s community initiatives. Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. , Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue, Columbus Spring Food Truck Festival

Featuring 25+ local and regional vendors serving everything from street tacos to seafood and sweet treats. Admission is $5 per person, with children 10 and under free, benefiting Uptown’s year-round community programming. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the gate. Saturday, March 28, 11:30 a.m. , Woodruff Park, Uptown Columbus Night Flight Band Live at The Bottom

Be part of the first official booking at The Bottom as Night Flight Band takes the stage for a Saturday night set and helps kick off a new chapter for the venue. Saturday, March 28, 7 p.m. , The Bottom, 1350 13th Street, Columbus Hotel Fiction with The Normas & Elijah Johnston

Alternative rock band Hotel Fiction brings their Athens-bred sound to The Loft for a high-energy night of loud guitars and packed-room momentum, joined by supporting acts The Normas and Elijah Johnston. Doors open at 7 p.m., music starts at 8 p.m., and this is a 21+ event with early bird tickets at $20 and $30 at the door. Saturday, March 28, 8 p.m. , The Loft, 1032 Broadway, Columbus Open Studio at COMU

Join us daily in the Studio as we explore a different object from the Museum’s collection each day to use as inspiration for an art making activity. March 31 - April 3, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. , The Columbus Museum, 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus 2025–2026 Lecture Series: This Is a True Story

Historian Dr. Robert Brigham shares his personal connection to the Vietnam War while examining its broader impact on American families and social norms. Thursday, April 2, 7 p.m. , National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus

Want to see your event listed here?

Email:events@thelocalcolumbus.com

Actors Spotlight

Emerging Talents On Stage & Screen

By Paul Rowe

F or this month’s CineForge entry, I sat down with three of our area’s standout stage and screen talents: Emma Gaines, Mikayla Hutchinson, and Talen Hutchinson, to talk shop.

Fresh off starring in a locally made feature film alongside Emmy-nominated and screen legend actress Dee Wallace, the conversation naturally drifted through origin stories, collaboration, stage versus screen, community, and what comes next. By pure coincidence, we happened to be talking during ThesCon weekend, Georgia’s major three-day thespian conference, right here in Columbus.

What follows are a few moments from that conversation, offering small windows into their journeys, experiences, and thoughts.

GROWING UP & TOGETHER

“I’ve lived in Columbus my entire life,” Emma says. “One of my first theatre experiences was The Little Princess. I played schoolgirl number one of twelve. A real breakout role,” she jokes.

Homeschooled with plenty of free time, Emma filled it with creative exploration and … sibling employment. “I made my brothers be in shows. I wrote songs, choreographed dances, and charged a penny to get in. That was kind of my childhood.”

Mikayla’s start looked different, but she possessed the same impulse. “I tried everything growing up: sports, pottery, all of it,” she says. “Nothing stuck. But I was always pretending. Dressing up, playing teacher, playing make-believe.”

That pretending found direction when she auditioned for her first play. “I didn’t get the role I wanted, and I was furious. But once I got onstage, I fell in love with it. It was the outlet I didn’t know I needed.”

Talen remembers a similar moment of discovery. “My first role was a duckling in The Little Mermaid Jr. I had a reed stuck in front of my face the whole time,” he laughs. “But once I got a bigger role, I realized how much fun it was to play pretend and be someone else.”

Emma, Mikayla, and Talen have a long history of friendship. Emma and Mikayla were childhood friends and lived down the street from one another.

“We made terrible little movies,” Emma says. “Pirate

movies that no longer exist. We were just kids creating.”

Mikayla and Talen met at Family Theatre, the long-running community theatre in Columbus. During Talen’s first production there, Little House on the Prairie: The Musical, Talen played Almonzo Wilder, while Mikayla portrayed Mary Ingalls.

“We could’ve crossed each other’s path sooner at the Springer or in a film,” he remembers, “But we met each other at the right time.” Talen and Mikayla married in December of 2024.

Over time, a special kind of trust evolved for these friends and creatives.

“I trust Mikayla and Talen morally, creatively, intellectually,” Emma says. “I know they’ll make good decisions. That’s rare.”

For Mikayla, that trust has been essential. “When I was going through a really hard time during production, Emma was a safe place,” she says. “I knew I could mess up and try again without being judged.” Talen describes that trust as freedom. “Working with people you trust gives you creative liberty. They tell you what they want, and then they let you build toward it. That’s when the best work happens.”

They’re quick to point out that collaboration is about

recognizing and allowing for each other’s strengths.

“You can watch a show and tell who did what,” Mikayla says. “That lighting? That’s Talen. That writing? That’s Emma. Everyone brings something specific, and it all comes together.”

STAGE VS. SCREEN

All three agree the mediums ask different things of performers and come with their own challenges.

“Theatre and film use completely different muscles,” Talen says. “On stage, you give more. On film, you pull it back, and you still have to be just as expressive. You’re yelling without yelling.”

Mikayla describes it as exterior versus interior. “In theatre, you’re reaching the back row. On screen, it’s just you and the viewer. If you do too much, it feels false.” Emma approaches the difference conceptually. “Film has layers. The camera, the audience, the characters. Theatre is more direct,” she says.

There’s also the difference in feedback.

“Theatre gives you instant connection,” Mikayla says. “You hear the laughter. You hear people breathing. You feel it immediately.”

“With film,” Talen notes, “you have to wait. You don’t know how people will react for months.”

SEEING IT ON THE BIG SCREEN

Watching their latest feature film in January 2026 at the Springer Opera House, to the attendance of three-hundred plus attendees, was both exhilarating and terrifying.

“That was the biggest I’ve ever seen my face,” Talen says. “I was nervous the entire time. When it ended, it was just relief. We did it.”

“I don’t really have a reference point. I kept telling myself the work was done,” Emma says. “It’s out of your hands.”

For Mikayla, the premiere highlighted how invisible filmmaking often is. “I wish people could see the behindthe-scenes work. The sleepless nights, the fundraising, the problem-solving,” she says.

They all emphasize how collaborative the project felt.

“Everyone was allowed to use their gifts,” Emma says.

COMMUNITY & OPPORTUNITY

Emma talks about the importance of opportunity and community theatre: “What Family Theatre gave us was accessibility. You could step in, try something, mess up, and learn, without fear. That kind of environment is everything

when you’re young.”

Talen adds, “Family Theatre is our home. It’s where we were trained, where we learned how to collaborate, and why we feel confident enough to go out and try new things.”

“If you want to support the arts, go to things. Go see a show. Go to a reading. Go to exhibitions. Be with people. That’s what’s real,” says Mikalya.

Talen pushes back on the idea that art belongs only to professionals. “People say, ‘I could never act.’ But you were acting on the playground. Anyone can create. You don’t have

to do everything, just show up.”

Emma also challenges the myth of the lone artistic genius. “Art doesn’t happen in a vacuum,” she says. “The important thing is making things with other people.”

Mikayla leaves a final note on the importance of community theatre. “My family always championed the arts, and Family Theatre was such a big part of that. I learned so much growing up there, and I wish more people could see the value in supporting the arts the way that space does.”

LOOKING FORWARD

Mikayla, Talen and Emma are currently developing a nomadic theatre company among other notable endeavours and exploration.

“Art doesn’t need walls,” Mikayla says. “We want to create theatre where people already are. More details on that soon,” Mikayla promises.

“I want to be everywhere, big places, small places, and make an impact,” Talen says. “Art makes people want to make more art.” Talen has recently been cast in Hairspray, the Broadway musical, in a yet to be announced role.

Emma is additionally focused on building a long body of work. “Theatre, exhibitions, maybe an MFA someday,” she says. “And eventually bringing everything I learn back to Columbus.”

Upcoming Events They Would Like To Highlight Include:

Family Theatre’s Anne of Green Gables, The Musical, running in April and early May (visit familytheatre.org for tickets and details).

Mixed Doubles, a Do Good Fund initiative taking place March 3 - 11, a free portrait series celebrating the relationships that define our city wherein each participating pair receives a complimentary portrait. The series will be exhibited at The Do Good Fund Gallery in late March (learn more at dogoodfund.org).

Hairspray at the Springer Opera House, starting March 20th (visit springeroperahouse. org for tickets and details).

CLOSING

Whether onstage, onscreen, or somewhere unexpected, Emma, Mikayla, and Talen are part of a growing creative current in Columbus.

Their journey underscores a truth that applies onstage, onscreen, or any format: when ideas can be shared freely and people feel safe enough to try, fail, and try again, the best and most fulfilling art can happen. And when life gets heavy, having a trusted friend to lean on makes all the difference, especially when the production must go on. u

By Monica Jones

Brian Waters was one of those people who changed the direction of your life without even realizing it.

Years ago, during my very first radio interview, I was sitting in Dave Nahley’s office, unsure of myself and not even convinced I belonged there. Brian walked past the door, glanced in, looked at Dave, and said, “Oh, hire her. Hire her.”

Just like that.

He probably kept walking. He probably didn’t think twice about it. But that moment gave me a confidence boost I didn’t even know I needed. That interview catapulted a career I never could have imagined. It eventually led to owning my own business and years in radio that shaped who I am.

That was Brian. He saw people, believed in them, and said it out loud.

Brian Daniel Waters was born September 14, 1965, in Montgomery, Alabama. He grew up in Opelika, attended Auburn University, and began building what would become a more than thirty-five-year career in radio. Rock, CHR, Country, Urban, AC, Spanish, News Talk, Gospel. If there was a format, he understood it.

He served as Operations Manager for Clear Channel Radio from 1994 until 2009, overseeing programming across Columbus, Albany, and Newnan. Later, at PMB Broadcasting, he was Program Director, Music Director, and Morning Show Host at 103.7 Lite FM and Classic Rock 105.5.

At Brian’s service, friends and colleagues filled the chapel, each carrying their own version of him. Some knew the public voice. Others knew the private friend. Many knew both. Dave Nahley, who worked alongside Brian during the Clear Channel years, stepped forward to speak about that era.

“That was the time when a coworker became a great friend,” Dave said. “I was on the sales side, and Brian ran pretty much everything. The music for each station, the on-air talent, promotions. It all funneled through his office. Anything we did to succeed in ratings and revenue, Brian was responsible for.”

Sales and programming were often friendly rivals, but Dave said Brian made him feel like part of the on-air staff. When a client needed backstage passes or special access, Brian made it happen. He had a drive to succeed that elevated everyone around him.

Brian’s standards were high. Aimee Davis, who once did mornings with him, laughed as she recalled working overnights for Rock 103—a classic rock station—and trying to slip a Nine Inch Nails track into the playlist. It was late. She figured maybe she could get away with it. She didn’t. Brian called almost immediately.

She tells it with a smile now. He wasn’t being harsh; he was being Brian. Format integrity mattered to him. Consistency mattered. The listener mattered. Radio, in his mind, was a promise—and he intended to keep it.

Through radio, he was bigger than life to thousands of

listeners. He once interviewed Bob Dylan. He had stories about Eddie Van Halen and Sammy Hagar. He found himself in a hotel sauna with Jimmy Page and somehow walked away with a concert invitation. He told those stories with animated precision, using his hands to pull you into the moment.

But the measure of Brian was never fame. It was loyalty.

Mamie Pound said it best at his service: “Friends are not automatic; people fold into each other. Friendship is a million tiny shared experiences. One day you wake up and realize this is one of your people.”

By Monica Jones

Brian was that person. He refused to turn off his ringer overnight in case someone needed him. He kept his word, even if that meant showing up for a 7 a.m. boat date the Sunday after a party. When he said he would be there, he was there. That same loyalty extended beyond his inner circle. During the pandemic, when businesses across our community were struggling, Brian used his platform and influence to promote

them, encourage them, and help them stay visible. In 2019, after a storied radio career, Brian became an Advertising Account Executive with OnMedia. Without prior sales experience, he quickly became the company’s top producer and remained so. He understood something simple: people matter.

His impact extended deeply into this community. He served nearly a decade with PAWS Humane, including as board president. He created the Barks and Blues Concert Series

along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. He served on the board of Midtown Columbus Incorporated. He emceed Steeplechase, Midtown Mingle, events at the Phenix City Amphitheater, and countless gatherings throughout the Valley.

He loved historic preservation and poured himself into his 1920s home on Hilton Avenue, always painting, polishing, tending his gardens. He loved his pets—Benji, Minwe, and Franklin. He loved Auburn football. He loved music of all genres. He once made us all sit down and watch FM because he loved the culture of radio and the people who lived it.

Patty Bass Chappel spoke of the quiet ministry of his friendship. During the pandemic, when the world felt heavy and uncertain, he cooked. He fed people. He lifted spirits. Destin beach trips became sacred traditions filled with ribs, margaritas, sunsets, and laughter.

“His legacy is love,” she said. “Steadfast, loyal, joyful, and eternal.”

In his final weeks, Mamie shared that the phrase he repeated most often was simple: “I love you.” He wanted each of you to know how much he loved you. He wanted you to know that you made a difference in his life. And if he could have stayed longer, he would have.

Brian loved his friends fiercely. Not just a few, not just the ones who stood at a podium, but the many who filled rooms with him over the years. The concert companions. The boat captains. The late-night callers. The coworkers who became family. The neighbors. The board members. The ones who raised their hands in that chapel. The ones who could not be there

but felt the loss just as deeply.

In the chapel that day, hands were raised when asked who had checked on him, who had sent encouragement, who had loved him.

The room answered.

Brian Waters made a difference. Not just in ratings books or major markets or celebrity encounters, but in hallways, kitchens, text messages at midnight, board meetings, backyard gardens, and quiet moments when someone needed to be reminded they mattered.

The physical world has lost a body that held a great soul. But the spirit that animated him—the storyteller, the mentor, the friend—is not reduced to silence. It lives in every story we tell, every song we turn up, every business he helped build, every life he nudged forward.

Thank you, Brian.

Good night. u

Mixed Doubles

A Portrait Of Connection At The Do Good Fund

There’s something powerful about walking into a gallery and realizing you might be part of what hangs on the walls. So this March, The Do Good Fund isn’t just presenting an exhibition — it’s inviting Columbus to step into it.

From March 3–11, The Do Good Fund Gallery will

transform into a portrait studio for Mixed Doubles, an ongoing photographic series by New York-based photographer Teri Slotkin. Instead of polished openings and quiet observation, the space will hum with conversation, laughter, and the subtle nervous energy of

people sitting down to be seen — together.

By Monica Jones

The concept is simple and surprisingly moving: portraits of pairs.

In this case, “pairs” does not just mean couples in the traditional sense, but any two people connected by a meaningful relationship. Student and teacher. Coworkers

who survived a tough season together. A runner and the friend who kept them accountable. A barista and a regular who know each other’s order by heart. Grandparent and grandchild. Coach and player. Neighbors who became chosen family.

Portrait sessions are free, open to all ages, and require zero experience in front of a camera. Each pair will receive a complimentary copy of their portrait, and the images will later be exhibited inside The Do Good Fund Gallery.

The Do Good Fund has built its reputation around accessible, community-centered photography. Its exhibitions regularly spotlight powerful documentary work and contemporary photography that connects local audiences to national conversations. With Mixed

Doubles, the gallery turns the lens back toward Columbus itself.

Slotkin, whose career spans more than five decades, is no stranger to socially engaged art. A graduate of Douglass College at Rutgers and NYU, she served as a staff photographer at Goldman Sachs and was a founding member of Collaborative Projects (Colab), an influential artist collective. Her work intersects artistic experimentation and human connection — and people remain her primary subject.

But Mixed Doubles isn’t about technical perfection or dramatic lighting. It’s about the space between two people.

“Mixed Doubles began as a way to slow down and pay attention to how people show up for one another,” Slotkin has said. “Each pair brings their own history into the frame.”

That history doesn’t have to be dramatic. Sometimes it’s built in small, daily exchanges. The teacher who stayed late or the coworker who covered your shift. The neighbor who checked on you during a storm. The friend who listened when things fell apart.

Columbus is a relational city. We tend to build through conversation. Through collaboration. Through showing up.

What makes this iteration of Mixed Doubles especially compelling is the setting itself. The Do Good Fund has long positioned photography not as something distant or elite, but as something lived and accessible. The gallery’s mission centers on collecting and exhibiting photography that reflects the American South while inviting audiences into meaningful dialogue. By converting the gallery into an active studio, the organization quite literally blurs the line between observer and participant.

Instead of standing a polite distance from the artwork, Columbus residents will be part of it.

There’s vulnerability in that. Sitting for a portrait — especially beside someone who matters to you — requires a certain openness. You can’t hide behind your phone. You can’t edit the moment afterward. You show up as you are, in relation to another person.

That relational element is what elevates this beyond a typical community photo project. Slotkin is documenting bonds, not simply photographing faces. It’s the way two people lean slightly toward one another. The subtle mirroring of posture.

The unspoken shorthand that develops between people who have shared time.

And later, when those portraits line the gallery walls, viewers won’t just see individual stories — they’ll see a collective portrait of Columbus itself. A mosaic of partnerships which reveal what sustains this city: mentorship, friendship, loyalty, collaboration, care.

For participants, the experience may last only a short session in front of the camera. For the community, the impact lingers longer. These images become artifacts — reminders of who stood beside us at a particular moment in time.In a world obsessed with curated perfection, Mixed Doubles offers something more honest.

Bringing Mixed Doubles here happened through a personal connection with Columbus native Florence Neal, founder of Kentler International Drawing Space in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neighborhood. With support from a Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance grant and Visit Columbus GA, the project expands beyond exhibition into participation — removing barriers and inviting the public directly into the creative process. At a time when so many cultural conversations revolve around division, speed, and digital distance, Mixed Doubles offers something almost radical: a pause.

The exhibition opens with a reception and artist presentation on Saturday, March 21, from 5–7 p.m. at The Do Good Fund Gallery, located at 111 12th Street, Suite 103. The gallery is open Wednesday through Friday from 1–5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

If you’ve ever wanted a portrait that feels less like a headshot and more like a record of who stood beside you, this is your invitation. Columbus, step into the frame. u

Jerry Farber

STILL BOXING

to quietly fade into the background because a calendar suggests he should. For him, staying active isn’t about ego. It’s about staying connected — to audiences, to friends, to purpose.

Jerry’s life has never been just comedy. He’s spent years volunteering and working in service, including long stretches connected to homeless outreach. He talks about people like they matter, even when the world has decided they don’t. At a certain age, he said, people can begin to feel like the next big thing waiting for them is

STurns 88 At The Loft

By Monica Jones

ome people slow down at 88. Jerry Farber books another show.

“I’m still in the ring,” he said. “It’s late rounds, but I’m still boxing.”

He was in Atlanta for a run of shows when we spoke — quick, warm, already moving — still stacking gigs like it’s a competitive sport. That’s Jerry.

When I asked him how he’s still doing it, he didn’t go for the easy line. No talk of discipline, vitamins, or mythical fountains of youth. Instead, he talked about friends.

“People go to bed and don’t have one friend they can count on,” he said. “Not even someone to buy them a grilled cheese sandwich. It makes me sad.”

It says a lot about who Jerry is. He isn’t chasing fame. He isn’t trying to prove anything. He simply refuses

the grave. He fights that feeling the only way he knows how: by staying useful, by staying in motion, and by giving himself something to look forward to.

And yes, by making people laugh.

Because if there’s one thing Jerry believes in as much as purpose, it’s joy. He owns a shirt that reads, “My karma ran over my dogma,” and somehow that’s both a punchline and a worldview. It sums up his ability to poke fun at life without becoming bitter about it. There’s a lightness to him — not careless, but intentional, as if he’s decided laughter is a better companion than regret.

How Jerry and The Loft Became a “Classicory”

If Jerry is the kind of performer who turns a room into a living thing, Buddy Nelms is the kind of venue owner who understands why that matters.

When I asked Buddy how he and Jerry first linked up, he didn’t offer a neat, linear answer. “Jerry’s an enigma,” he said. “He has his own… classicory.” It’s a word Buddy coined years ago, and it fits. Some people don’t land in categories. They create their own.

Their story stretches back to the Olympic years, when Buddy was producing shows in Athens. One of those comedy nights featured Jerry opening for the legendary James Gregory. Buddy remembers standing offstage with Gregory, cigarette in hand, watching Jerry perform his now-famous Georgia Bulldog superfan bit.

“He pulls out these funky teeth,” Buddy said, laughing at the memory, “sticks them in, puts a ball cap around his head, turns into this Georgia redneck football fan … and nails it.”

Gregory was laughing so hard he didn’t want to

follow him. “That dude is killing me,” he said. “I can’t go on behind him!”

It’s easy to picture it — the teeth, the hat, the exaggerated drawl — a character so familiar that everyone in the room knew exactly who he was talking about. That ability to reflect a crowd back at itself is a rare skill.

That was Buddy’s first real introduction to Jerry. It wouldn’t be the last. Over the years, their paths crossed again and again, not just through shows but through shared belief in what live entertainment does for a community. The Loft has hosted countless acts, but there’s something different about performers who grow alongside a venue — who become part of its rhythm and history.

“Jerry has such a huge heart,” Buddy says. “He’ll volunteer for any worthy nonprofit. Anything with animals. Anything with people. He just wants to give people a sparkle.”

Buddy recalled a story Jerry told him about playing pinball in New York. Every time the metal ball hit a light, it flashed

and made a sound. That, Buddy said, is what he wants to do for people. He wants to light them up. To create a spark.

That’s Jerry’s legacy. Not just the years. Not just the shows. The light he leaves behind in rooms long after the curtain closes.

A Night That’s Bigger Than a Birthday

On Thursday, March 12, Jerry Farber brings that light back to The Loft for an 88th birthday celebration that’s part comedy, part music, and part community reunion. He’ll be joined by special guest comedian James Etchison, with music from April Norris and Mark Sasser of

Kindred Spirits.

Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. at The Loft, 1032 Broadway.

Jerry is still in the ring. He’s still swinging. And for one more night, Columbus gets to step into that corner with him — not just to celebrate a birthday, but to celebrate the kind of spirit that refuses to dim. u

GiGi’s Playhouse

Building a Place to Belong

By Monica Jones

When you talk to Jan Kent, you hear two things at once: steel and softness. Steel in her determination. Softness in the way she says her daughter’s name. Josie is nine years old. She loves big nights out, being part

of a team, and showing up in the world with that kind of grin that makes you grin back. She also has Down syndrome –and according to Jan, that is not a personality trait.

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that people with Down syndrome are just sweet and happy all the time,” Jan told me. “If you say that, I know you’ve never spent real time with them. They have emotions just like we do.”

It sounds like a small correction, but it carries weight, because when a child is born and a diagnosis follows, there’s a moment many families don’t talk about out loud. You had a picture in your mind. You thought you knew the road. Then the map changes.

“You have to go through a mourning stage,” Jan said. “That whole world you thought you were going to have suddenly isn’t going to look the way you imagined.”

I asked how Josie has changed the way Jan sees success. She paused. Really paused. “For Josie,” she said, “success might not be being the first person across the finish line. It might just be crossing it.” That shift, from first place to participation, from trophies to resilience, reshapes everything. It also helps explain why Jan and a volunteer startup team are working to bring something major to the Chattahoochee Valley: not one, but two GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Centers, one serving Columbus/Phenix City

and one serving Auburn/Opelika.

GiGi’s Playhouse offers completely free, research-based programs for individuals with Down syndrome, from birth through adulthood. Programs include literacy, math, speech, social skills, fitness, career development, and independent living. Because traditional therapies are often insurancedriven, families can end up stuck on waiting lists for months. “There are very few resources in our area,” Jan explained. “We have the people, but we don’t have the community set up here. Our individuals need a place to belong. They need people that believe in them.”

Because GiGi’s isn’t insurance-driven, goals aren’t determined by outside systems. “There’s nobody overhead telling you what your limitations are,” she said. “It’s based on the individual.” That means programs can be more flexible, more personal, and more focused on real life outcomes. It’s not just therapy. It’s tutoring. It’s confidence-building. It’s skill development. It’s belonging.

That sense of belonging becomes even more critical as individuals get older. Jan shared something that a lot of families quietly fear: after high school, resources can drop off dramatically. “Once their child transitions out of high school, there is nothing for them at all,” she said. Then

there’s the question most parents of children with special needs carry, whether they say it out loud or not: what happens when we’re gone?

That’s why GiGi’s isn’t just a feel-good nonprofit story. It’s infrastructure. It’s a long-term investment in independence and quality of life, not only for individuals with Down syndrome, but for families who want their children to thrive in a world which too often underestimates them. “In five years,” Jan said, “I think we’re going to see individuals that are benefiting society and able to give back in so many different ways.”

The movement has already sparked a strong response locally, and you can hear Jan light up when she talks about

teams forming around the mission. One team, Benji’s Brigade, has raised over $3,000 in less than two weeks. “I’ve never met Benji,” Jan laughed. “Don’t know the family. But they’ve got a ton of people on their team, and I love them.”

She also shared how “Josie’s Outlaws” became more than just a team name. When Josie was three months old, friends and family rallied around her for their first buddy walk and called themselves Josie’s Outlaws. What began as a single event has since grown into a steady circle of people who check on her, pray for her, and show up for her.

That spirit is exactly what the upcoming Dash for Down Syndrome is built to celebrate. The 1st Annual GiGi’s 5K Dash

for Down Syndrome takes place March 21, at Woodruff Park and includes a 5K, a onemile fun run, and a kids dash, welcoming participants of all abilities to run, walk, or roll. March 21 also happens to be World Down Syndrome Day (3/21), a date that represents three copies of the 21st chromosome. Many people celebrate by wearing mismatched socks, a simple and playful symbol of difference, uniqueness, and acceptance.

If you’re reading this and you don’t have a lived experience with Down syndrome in your immediate household, here’s the truth: this story is still yours. These are our neighbors. Our classmates. Our coworkers. Our community. “Everybody deserves a chance to be their best self,” Jan said. GiGi’s Playhouse aims to be a gateway for that through practical support, opportunity, and belief.

To get involved, learn more, volunteer, donate, or sign up for the Dash for Down

Syndrome, visit gigisplayhouse.org/chattahoocheevalley. And if you show up on March 21 in mismatched socks, just know you’re part of something bigger than a race. You’re part of a community choosing to believe in every child crossing their own finish line. u