Within a matter of secs Priscilla Esser replied. Her tweet simply read: “Ron & Cheng’s Kitchen. You’ll dig it.” I trust her taste. I pulled up to the strip mall’ish location & read the banner hanging out front, “Chinese Food & Home Cook’N” – WHAT? I’m not sure that I’m up for this Funky Food Fusion. Could Priscilla actually “Linda Lovelace” this? Christie Brinkley’s famous line in National Lampoon’s Vacation comes to mind. “Well, are you gonna Go For It?” So, I do. Ron & Chengs Kitchen on Tom Hill Blvd is actually worth the try. A quirky Chinese/Southern Home cooking combo but indeed it is funky enough that I really dug it. 2 meats & 2 Vegetables: Fried Porkchop, General Tso’s Chicken, butter beans, egg roll & cornbread. East met West all on one divided Syrofoam plate. I even “liked” it on UrbanSpoon. Y’all go check it out, 行吗？(OK?) I promise, there is a Happy Ending in store for you.

“Bring It On!” I say when recently challenged to a blind vodka taste test by National Distributing rep Kim Reynolds. Kim, knowing I’m a die-hard Grey Goose fan said she had a brand I was sure to favor over the Goose. Not Likely, I say. It was a Friday afternoon and work was slow so why not have a little fun and prove the little lassy wrong. I know my vodka and I like a sure thing. Kim enters The SoChi Gallery with a stockpile of vodka. She might as well have been wearing a Santa suit because it sure felt like Christmas. She preps for the taste test in the kitchen – out of my sight – then re-enters the scene with 6 numbered cups of vodka. Placing them before me she throws down the gauntlet. “Drink Up! she commands. I oblige. I am instructed to place the ones i like in one area and the ones I dislike in another area. I like vodka. In fact, vodka makes a great chaser for a Starbucks Latte as that was all that was on my stomach. As the tasting continues I ask myself, “Spit or Swallow?” Hell, we aren’t at a fancy Sonoma winery so “Swallow” it is. However the whole BLIND part of the taste test starts to take on a new meaning…will I be able to see once it’s all over? Taking my research seriously, I taste and re-taste them all. At the conclusion I have chosen a winner. In all fairness I must report my findings. Here is how I ranked them. In order of most liked to least liked: #1. Van Gogh Blue #2. Absolut #3. Grey Goose #4. Smirnoff #5. Ketel One #6. Stoli. At the conclusion of the test, she claimed victory stating the the Van Gogh was indeed her brand. Kudos to the girl who took this Out of the Box and into The SoChi Gallery! And the sobering result was that I did choose her hooch over my Goose. She Blinded Me With Science.

Want to be in pictures? Three short films will be filming around Macon during the summer months of July, August and September and they all require extras. The winners of Gateway Macon’s “Macon Shorts” film competition will be here filming. One of these filmmakers is James Kicklighter of Savannah whose last film FOLLOWED was filmed in Macon back in December. He will be here this summer filming “Final Acts” about aging movie star returning to her roots. The second film is entitled “Superhero” which will be directed by Kristin Wright of Atlanta. As you may have guessed ….it involves a costume. The third film is the story of a con artist entitled “The Razzle” by director Joseph Guay of Atlanta. Beware, if some Wise Guy approaches you and asks if you feel lucky – run! He just may be trying to seduce you into playing a board game that you are sure to loose your shirt over. The three films will premiere in November at a red carpet affair in Downtown Macon. For more info on the Macon Shorts film competition or if you’d like to be an extra in one of the films, contact Gateway Macon.

The Macon Film Festival is now accepting entries for the 7th annual festival which takes place February 16-19, 2012. Commonly referred to as a “filmmakers film fest” but perhaps more accurately called the “friendliest little effin’ film festival in the country” by filmmakers from all over the globe. Perhaps the MAGAtini (the festival’s signature cocktail) has a little something to do with that. To submit: Log onto the website and click on “Withoutabox submit your film here” tab.

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE BAND

July 23. Heroes Music Festival’s Battle of the Bands. Macon City Auditorium – winner will perform on stage at Heroes MF in Sept at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

July 27. Big Screen Movie Night: School of Rock @ Tattnall Park. 8pm. Free Event.

July 30. Bragg Jam. 36 bands. Multiple venues. $20.
Singer/Songwriters & Bands: Gateway Macon‘s MACON MUSIC PROJECT. One winner receives a $25,000+ music production package.
Deadline for entry: August 15th.

YOUR COMMENTS ARE AMUSING & WELCOME!

So-Chi-lize [soh-chee-lies] verb, -ized, -izing. –verb (used with object)
1. The art of mixing and mingling in The SoChi District.

Gateway Macon Announces Macon Shorts Film Competition Finalists

MACON, GA – Lights! Camera! Action! Gateway Macon is pleased to announce the three finalists of their Macon Shorts film competition. Each project will be awarded $3,000 to go toward the production of their 5-10 minute short film.

They are “Superhero” by Kristen Wright (in association with Jeff Shipman) of Atlanta, GA; “The Razzle” by Joseph Guay of Atlanta, GA; and “Final Acts” by James Kicklighter of Savannah, GA.

The selected films will be shot in and around Macon during July, August and September. The three films will be judged by film industry professionals during the month of October. A red carpet premiere will take place in November where the final awards will be presented. The Macon Shorts First Place winner will receive $3,000, Runner Up will receive $2,000 and Honorable Mention will receive $1,000.

A long list of Macon locations will be used in the films. The filmmakers are also looking to cast a number of the parts in the films from Macon’s abundant pool of local talent.

The three finalists will submit their shorts to film festivals
around the country. Credits in the three final films will include an acknowledgement of the Gateway Macon Initiative as a presenting producer, list the gatewaymacon.org website and state ‘Filmed entirely on location in Macon, Georgia – For more information, contact the Macon Film Commission.”

Superhero, Kristen Wright (Atlanta)
Synopsis:
“Superhero” follows the story of Margot, a young girl coping with the death of her parents by wearing a homemade Superwoman costume. She doesn’t know exactly when she started wearing the costume or why it makes her feel better, but somehow it has become her new skin. With the help of a few friends, and a unique comic book club, Margot takes her first steps back into the real world; and finds a new costume to wear.
Biography:
Kristin Wright Is an accomplished director, actor, and published writer with degrees in Theater and Speech Communications from the University of Georgia. She currently pairs filmmaking with her day job at Habitat For Humanity International Headquarters in Atlanta, GA.

The Razzle, Joseph Guay (Atlanta)
Synopsis:
“The Razzle” is a true story about 3 generations of Street Gamblers
with an illegal game, made up of only 8 marbles and a wood box, that generated millions of dollars for street grifters and gambling agents from 1952 until today.
Biography:
Joseph Guay is an Atlanta-based artist and photographer. His large format photography has also been featured in the The American Music Awards, Bravo Television Network and the Farrelly Brothers’ feature Film Hall Pass with Owen Wilson. He has photographed Elton John & Leon Russell for Rolling Stone Magazine, art directed and photographed the rock band Collective Soul’s 8th studio album and has been the assistant-curator of the Sir Elton John Photography Collection for the last three years.

Final Acts, James Kicklighter (Savannah)
Synopsis:
“Final Acts” is the story of a revered actress’ return to her roots as seen through the lens of an aspiring filmmaker, exploring the tenuous relationship between life and performance.
Biography:
James Kicklighter is the Co‐Chairman of JamesWorks Entertainment, recently featured in the Examiner.com’s “Top CEOs Under 25” series, and was a screener for the 2009 International Documentary Association’s Distinguished Feature Award. His most recent film Followed, shot in Macon, Georgia is now on the film festival circuit. The film recently won the Audience Choice Award at the National Film Festival for Talented Youth.

Gateway Macon Initiative’s mission is a community collaboration of 30+ organizations that are collectively promoting Macon, Georgia’s creative edge, uncommon spaces and unique opportunities. Funding of the innovative initiative by the Peyton Anderson Foundation was announced October 1, 2010. A primary goal is to connect efforts to promote Macon to a regional, statewide and national audience. The Gateway Initiative is a multifaceted, highly strategic plan of work that builds on the momentum of existing efforts among the community’s diverse organizations to encourage investment and promote Macon’s sites, events, cultural scene, livability and affordability.

For More Information on the Gateway Initiative Contact:
Beth Dunwody
The Gateway Initiative
577 Mulberry Suite 830
Macon, Georgia 31201
478.314.2231
beth@gatewaymacon.org
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It’s that time of year again. My wife & kids have flown the coop (a good thing since her cooper was demolished) for the summer and enjoying life in a northern town. I’m left navigating the SoChi life as a bachelor. The biggest hurdle is food. Once I’ve depleted the last of my wife’s past purchases left in the fridge & freezer it’s off to the market. To my chagrin, the Ghetto Kroger is not as easily navigated as the Starbucks drive-thru. Admittedly, I lack the shopping gene. Going to the grocery store is like looking for a raisin in a haystack. The illusive raisin, I can never find the damn things. And still, after I leave the market I can’t really make anything out of the stuff I bought. I’m not a cook. So, I depend upon the kindness of friends who do cook. This IS a blatant hint for dinner invitations!

Hark, the herald angels sing … In this case it was Atlanta uber publicist Toren Anderson inviting me down to Savannah for some R&R&R(estaurants.) As quick as you can say “Arriba! Arriba!” I was Speedy Gonzales-ing it down I-16. There is something about the low country that makes me happy. The majestic oaks dripping in Spanish moss wave me in like a checkerboard flag to a race car driver beckoning me in for a pit stop.

Waiting for me at the finish line was the Dresser Palmer House. Built in 1876 this inn boasts that it’s front porch is the longest in Historic Savannah. Upon check-in I was taken on a fascinating tour of the house, which was a history lesson & architectural tour rolled into one. I indeed won the race because my prize was the Johnny Mercer Suite, named for the famed American lyricist who was born in Savannah. It’s the largest room in the inn with wall-tall windows that you can walk through to enjoy the balcony that overlooks E. Gaston Street. Home is where the hearth is and I was glad that my hearth was the Dresser Palmer House.

The fallen tree didn’t crush my luck as I made a few foodie homeruns while in Savannah! The first surprise was Ele Fine Fusion an elegantly modern mix of chic architecture & interior, sexy lighting, vibey world music and devastatingly divine dishes. This foodie haunt is the total package. Ele’s Spicy Tuna Tartare (spelled “Tar Tar” on the menu) has got to be Savannah’s Best Bite! This dish will be served in Heaven as it perfection on a plate.

Leoci’s Trattoria was a quick walk from the Dresser Palmer House. Chef Roberto Leoci serves authentic Italian cuisine with Savannah’s best local ingredients. They had me at the Silician olives which were placed on the table as soon as we sat down. One thing is for sure, their Beet Salad is mind-blowing! I know, beets suck, but this spring mix is a mind-changer. So good in fact that I returned the next day to share a bit with South Magazine publisher Michael Brooks just before hitting the road for home.

No trip to Savannah would be complete without a trip to Back in the Day Bakery. Unfortunately they didn’t have my favorite veggie tarts but I stocked up on several Blueberry Pie tarts, Bourbon Bread Pudding bars, Star Brownies & Cheryl’s Brownies to bring home. I popped in one of my all-time favorite favorite Starbucks locales and grabbed a triple venti latte for the ride back to Macon.

Home & MINI-less I got an invite to the Porsche World Roadshow at Turner Field in Atlanta. Determined to decide for myself if the fabled “Porsche, there is no substitute” held water, I zoomed to Atlanta in my Nissan rental. While test driving 10 Porsches, I got my speed freak on and along the way overcame my fear of Spyders and found my true soul mate. Her name: Carrera. I can deduce that Tom Cruise was right about something. There truly is no substitute!

WEED & OTHER MIND-ALTERING SUBSTANCES

Light it up and enhale another season of WEEDS. Mondays @ 10p on Showtime.

Check out the Instagram iPhone App. Take a photo, choose from about 16 filters and then send to your Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Flickr & FourSquare accounts with one touch of the “done” button. Oh yes, and it’s a Free App.

“CYourself” Post a photo of yourself with a the letter “C” in it and Showtime Networks will donate $5 to the American Cancer Society. It’s an ingenious social networking promotion for the new season of the networks’ show The Big C. If you have the Instagram app just tag it: #CYourself

FUTURE LOVE PARADISE

July 1 – 16. The cult film “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” transforms into a live musical at Theatre Macon. They are selling prop bags to complete your Rocky Horror experience at the box office for $1.00. Theatre Macon is encouraging attendees to come dressed as their favorite Rocky Horror character. When I went the other night one die-hard fan was dressed in only a bra … Dammit Janet, I love you!

July 7. The Psychedelic Furs @ The Masquerade in Atlanta. 8pm.

July 8. Big Screen Movie Night: “FIELD OF DREAMS” presented by the Macon Film Festival and the College Hill Alliance. Thursday. July 8th @ Tattnall Park. 8pm. Free Event. Bring chairs, blankets & a picnic.

July 10. Second Sunday @ Sunset. Washington Park. 7pm. Free Event. Donna Hopkins Band performing.

July 23 – Heroes Music Festival’s Battle of the Bands. Macon City Auditorium – winner will perform on stage at Heroes MF in Sept at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

July 27 – Big Screen Movie Night: “School of Rock” @ Tattnall Park. 8pm. Free Event. Air guitar contest – winner gets tickets to Bragg Jam Festival.

July 29 – 31. Gilroy Garlic Festival. Gilroy, California. The 33rd annual “Ultimate Summer Food Fair”; three days of incredible food, beverages, arts & crafts and live entertainment. 30 miles south of San Jose off Highway 101.

July 30. Bragg Jam Music Festival. 36 bands. Multi-venues. $20.

Calling all Singer/Songwriters & Bands…Gateway Macon‘s MACON MUSIC PROJECT. One winner receives a $25,000+ music production package. Deadline for entry: August 15th.
For details: ItsHotterHere.com

Sept. 8 – 11. Heroes Music Festival. Atlanta Motor Speedway.

Sept. 9 – 11. Evening of Respect. Macon, Georgia Celebrates 70 Years of Otis Redding.

Tweet-worthy quote:
“The 4th of July combines the two things Americans love most in one day: alcohol and explosives.” – David Letterman

YOUR COMMENTS ARE AMUSING & WELCOME!

MACON ANTHEM RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

MACON, GA – Macon’s newest anthem “A Little More Soul” is now a national award winner. Gateway Macon and Bright Blue Sky Productions are the proud recipients of multiple 2011 Bronze Telly Awards that were presented on April 12th in Las Vegas. “A Little More Soul” won an impressive four Telly awards in the Charitable/Non-Profit, Award for Sound/Sound Design, Videography/Cinematography, and Campaign/Non-for-Profit categories.

The music video “A Little More Soul” is just one of the innovative approaches that the Gateway Macon initiative is using to promote the city of Macon with their “It’s Hotter Here” campaign. The Gateway Initiative, funded by the Peyton Anderson Foundation, is a community collaboration of 36 organizations that are collectively promoting Macon’s creative edge, uncommon spaces, and unique opportunities.

The award winning video was filmed entirely on location in Macon and was co-produced by Elliott Dunwody of Bright Blue Sky Productions and Tabitha Walker of Big Hair Productions using local talent and crew including Director of Photography, Stephanie Shadden. The original song, “A Little More Soul”, was written by Tony Reyes who provides the lead vocals, along with Sonny Spoon who wrote & performed the hip hop segment. The song, recorded at Macon’s Muscadine Studios, was produced and arranged by percussionist, Steve Moretti who is also heard on drums. The string section is comprised of Robert McDuffie, Amy Moretti and the students from the McDuffie Center for Strings. Complete credits and artist bios, including Chuck Leavell and Peter Stroud, are provided online. The song can be downloaded for free on the Gateway Macon website http://www.ItsHotterHere.com, which provides a link to the music video. It can also be viewed on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KprZI5EL3FM

The Telly Awards honor the very best local, regional, and cable television commercials and programs, as well as the finest video and film productions, and work created for the Web. The Gateway Macon entry was judged by past Telly award winners who are among the country’s top advertising and production professionals.

###

For More Information on the Gateway Initiative Contact:
Beth Dunwody
The Gateway Initiative
577 Mulberry Suite 830
Macon, Georgia 31201
478.314.2231
beth@gatewaymacon.org

The 6th Annual Macon Film Festival was a indeed Better, Stronger, Faster thanks to the $6 million dollar team consisting of Tabitha Walker, Elliott Dunwody, Stephanie Shadden, Julie Wilkerson, Diana Sullivan, Sylvia Boykin, Priscilla Esser, Blaine Whittle, Craig Coleman, Tony Long, Tony Long, Jr, BJ Dunwody & Terrell Sandefur (me).

1,500+ attendees, 114 independent films, 6 Special Screenings (“Freedom Riders“,”Black, White and Blues“,”The Fat Boy Chronicles“, “The Kid“, “Get Low” & “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels“), 3 screening venues (The Cox Capitol Theatre, The Douglass Theatre and the Macon Marriott City Center), Workshops @ The 567 Center for Renewal, a first year Festival Headquarters @ 567 Cherry Street, After Parties each night (Le Galerie, The Emerson Brownstone & The SoChi Gallery) where the famous MAGAtinis flowed. (Factoid: The MAGAtini, the signature cocktail of the Macon Film Festival, is known amongst filmmakers throughout the world!)

Over 75 filmmakers from as far away as Los Angeles, New York, Japan, Spain and London made the trek to Macon for the 4 day fest. “It may not be the biggest festival in the world, but it certainly is the friendliest” repeatedly stated by British director, Nick Moran who’s film “The Kid” was Saturday night’s special screening. Moran is better known for his acting roles including his turn as “Eddy” in Guy Ritchie’s “Lock, Stock & Two Smoking Barrels” and “Scabior” in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.”

Filmmakers call the Macon Film Festival ”The Friendliest Effin Film Festival in the Country” and we work hard at making that tag line a reality. Bottom line, filmmaking is Economic Development. Macon has everything (except a sound stage) to attract filmmakers to consider us a location for their projects. A BIG thank you to all the sponsors, attendees, volunteers & media who participated in this year’s fest … Combined, we all make this place more attractive to the folks who will bring their next film project here.

March is here and SoChi’s Red Carpet Season is now behind us. The Carpet Burns have almost healed.

FUTURE LOVE PARADISE

Pink Decadence Party. March 19th @ The SoChi Gallery.
Cherry Blossom Festival. March 18 – 27.
OMD @ The Loft in Atlanta. March 14th. 8pm
EyeCon-The Vampire Diaries March 25-27
Macon Gardens, Mansions & Moonlight. April 29 – May 1, 2011
Echo & the Bunnymen @ The Masquerade. May 5th. 8pm

Gilroy Garlic Festival. Gilroy, California. July 29 – 31, 2011. The 33rd annual “Ultimate Summer Food Fair”; three days of incredible food, beverages, arts & crafts and live entertainment. 30 miles south of San Jose off Highway 101.

Heroes Music Festival Sept. 8 – 11.

Quip worthy of a Facebook post:
“Go where you’re celebrated, not where you’re tolerated.”

YOUR COMMENTS ARE AMUSING & WELCOME!

MACON FILM FESTIVAL SET TO REEL IN FILMMAKERS & MOVIE BUFFS

Macon, GA – The 6th Annual Macon Film Festival will launch on February 17th at the Cox Capitol Theatre, The Douglass Theatre and the Marriott City Center in historic downtown Macon. With over 100 film submission screenings and 4 new categories of awards, organizers are gearing up for the biggest event to date. The film festival will continue daily through Sunday, February 20th.

The Macon Film Festival was created to celebrate the art and craft of the moving image, and to introduce independent films that rarely appear in Macon, Georgia. Macon Film Festival is dedicated to entertaining, educating, and inspiring audiences and filmmakers alike by offering innovative and imaginative films both mainstream and independent in nature. We also strive to introduce visiting filmmakers and guests to the Central Georgia community, and to promote film production in the area. The festival is open to filmmakers working in all media, genres, and themes.

2011 Macon Film Festival – Special Screenings
Thursday, February 17th @ 7:30pm “Freedom Riders”
Friday, February 18th @ 8:15pm “Black, White and Blues”
Saturday, February 19th @ 10am “Fat Boy Chronicles”
Saturday, February 19th @ 8:30pm “The Kid”
Sunday, February 20th @ 7:00pm “Get Low”
Q&A Session to follow each special screening with special guests.

Macon Film Festival will take place February 17th – 20th at the Cox Capitol Theatre, The Douglass Theatre & the Marriott City Center. 478-257-6391.
For more information or to view the full screening schedule, log on to www.maconfilmfestival.com or Facebook event page @6thAnnualMaconFilmFestival.
Tickets are now available online at www.maconfilmfestival.com/festival/ticket-information
Admission for the Thursday day blocks is free thanks to a grant from the City of Macon administered by Macon Arts Alliance. Free admission to all day blocks for students with a valid college ID.

Terrell Sandefur, Media Contact
terrell@terrellsandefur.com
478.319.0243
# # #

I think that if people want to build their perfect city, why can’t they do it in reality. That’s all I’m saying. I love the city in which I live. It’s called Macon, Georgia. I work diligently to make her my perfect city. I have created a destination…it’s called SoChi – and it’s Real. It stands for “South of Chichesters.” The SoChi District is Midtown & Downtown Macon.

I love architecture, classic & otherwise. It’s one of Macon’s greatest assets. My home is a 1929 house in the historic district. My wife & I did a massive renovation to it making it perfect for us. I bought a fire ravaged building in downtown and did a complete renovation turning it into what is now The SoChi Gallery.

Building the city of my dreams is my reality. I live it everyday. You are all invited to play!

You can purchase your SoChi Destination Sticker @ Petals Flowers & More, JoeD’s on Ingleside, Caufield’s Vintage & the SoChi Gallery.

If you haven’t yet heard of Groupon, you will. The” group coupon” hits Macon this month. 50% – 90% savings at local businesses.
Membership is FREE! Sign up today and start receiving your “Deal of the Day!” With the economy in the toilet, Groupon could be a savior and coax would-be shoppers to spend.

Have you seen the movie Black Swan? This is one dark bird that swims in a very deep lake. A total must see and not for the faint of mind. This psycho-sexual thriller is about as much a ballerina movie as Mickey Rourke’s “The Wrestler” was a wrestling movie. Both exceptional! Natalie Portman will be nominated for an Academy Award for this one.

The latest zombie flick was filmed in Macon during the month of December. Locations included Wesleyan College, Mercer University, The Terminal Station, Carey Pickard’s house & The SoChi Gallery. For a sneak peek click –> “Followed”

The 6th Annual Macon Film Festival is February 17th-20th. This year’s festival will be “Better. Stronger. Faster.” just like the 6 million dollar man. Films will be shown at the Cox Capitol Theatre, The Douglass Theatre and the Marriott City Center Hotel. I invite you all to participate. Tickets go on sale January 20th.

If you would like to volunteer to work at the festival, email your contact info to: MagaVolunteers@gmail.com

2011 MACON FILM FESTIVAL TICKET INFO

All Access Pass $100
All Access Passes are good February 15 and February 17 – 21 for priority seating at all Daytime and Evening Block Screenings, including Special Screenings and the Awards Ceremony. All Access Passes also include admission to After Parties. All Access Passes do not guarantee admission to any screening. All Pass holders should arrive at the venue 30 minutes prior to the screening for admittance, which is on
a first come / first served basis.

Screening Pass $50
Screening Passes are good February 15 and February 17 – 21 for priority seating at all Daytime and Evening Block Screenings, including Special Screenings and the Awards Ceremony. Screening Passes do NOT include admission to After Parties. Screening Passes do not guarantee admission to any screening. All Pass holders should arrive at the venue 30 minutes prior to the screening for admittance, which is on a first come / first served basis.

Daytime Block Ticket $10
Daytime Block tickets are good for all Daytime Screenings at Cox Capitol Theatre, The Douglass Theatre and The Macon Marriott City Center Hotel. Daytime Block tickets do not guarantee admission to any screening. Ticket holders should arrive 20 minutes prior to the screening for seating after all Pass Holders have been admitted.

*Thanks to the generosity of Macon Arts Alliance, Thursday Daytime Block tickets are free to the public.

Evening Block Ticket $15
Evening Block tickets are good for all Evening Screenings at Cox Capitol Theatre, The Douglass Theatre and The Macon Marriott City Center Hotel, including Special Screenings and the Awards Ceremony. Evening Block tickets do not guarantee admission to any screening. Ticket holders should arrive 20 minutes prior to the screening for seating after all Pass Holders have been admitted.

*The Tuesday evening screening of Bibb County International Film Competition winners is free to the public.

Tickets will be on sale January 20, 2011 at www.maconfilmfestival.com and beginning February 16, 2011 at the Festival Box Office (location and box office hours TBA). For more information or for ticket vouchers and gift certificates, email info@maconfilmfestival.com.

QUIPS WORTH USING AS A FACEBOOK STATUS:
“It’s not what you are that counts, it’s what they think you are.”
— Andy Warhol
“With regards to societal cobwebs and social traps: Be a Spider. Not a Fly.”
– Terrell Sandefur

COMMENTS ARE AMUSING & WELCOME!

I also know that green isn’t just the color of dead, rotting flesh. Zombies are shuffling all the way to the bank. AMC’s The Walking Dead (filmed in Atlanta) is the most watched drama series among 18-49 adults in basic cable history and was just nominated for a Golden Globe award.

The dead have walked south and are strolling the streets of Macon. Followed directed by James Kicklighter began filming here this week. Followed is the story of a socially-responsible college professor whose perfect world is threatened by the appearance of a tag-along zombie child. As I write this The SoChi Gallery has been transformed into an upscale restaurant for a scene in the movie. Lights! Camera! Zombie Action!

Las Vegas Blvd has its share of the walking dead….a evidenced by all the ELVISes I saw while in Vegas last week. A group of us went to Vegas to represent the Macon Film Festival at the International Film Festival Summit. And…we ended up snagging the Best Program award. Thanks to the talents of local design firm Burt & Burt Designs & Stephanie Shadden.

The Macon Film Festival is February 17th – 20th, 2011. We are now looking for sponsors & advertisers. If you’re interested in appearing in our national award-winning program, shoot an email to: Terrell@TerrellSandefur.com

DECEMBER BRAIN FOOD

You know “It’s Hotter Here” in Macon, right? The new Gateway Macon Initiative is community-wide collaboration designed to showcase Macon’s creative edge, its uncommon spaces, and growing opportunities . Fan their Facebook Page and check out the new music video “A Little More Soul” on their website.

Good Eats: Vingenzo’s in Woodstock, Ga. The hand-crafted cheeses are worth the drive! This is a do not miss for your next trip to Atlanta’s north side.

Ice Skating at The Centreplex. Now thru Jan. 2nd.

“Scrooge” @ The Grand Opera House. Dec. 15th

Save the Halls: A Christmas Celebration. Dec. 17th @ Library Ballroom. 8pm. (Music & Sports halls of fame) Log on http://www.savethehalls.com and sign the petition.

“The Electric Social” @ The SoChi Gallery. Dec. 17th @ 9pm. Best in Electronic music. DJ sets by: Sector 478, Street Urchin, Dark Shadow, Element, Structure

All About Animals Benefit concert @ Cox Capitol Theatre on Dec. 18th to benefit Macon’s only no-kill shelter. Performing: Ty Herndon, Mike Kinnebrew, Nick Malloy Band, Molly Stevens, Whitney Layne & Jaycie Ward. Tix: $15 Gen Admission, $25 Reserved Seating. 478-257-6391

Dec. 21. Big Screen Movie Night “Polar Express” at the Terminal Station. 7pm. FREE. Bring blankets & chairs.

Dec. 31st. NYE Party @ The SoChi Gallery “New Years Eve of Downtown Decadence with Champagne Wishes & P.B.R. Dreams.” Live performances by: Jubee and the Morning After, Back City Woods, The Royal Fireworks – coordinated by Thompson Entertainment

Macon-filmed STUCK! directed by Steve Balderson is now available on DVD $24.95…add to your queue on NetFlix or buy it on DVD @ Dikenga.com

YOUR COMMENTS ARE AMUSING & WELCOME!

Excuse me while I suck down a Fabulous Bastard from my barstool at Lemongrass Thai Bistro and gather my focus.

OK. My buddy Joseph Guay & I packed our scripts and flew out to the left coast for a planned 4-day “Razzle/Dazzle” pitch to a handful of movie industry folks. Our objective: taking this great idea from the paper to the big screen. We had some productive meetings at some cool eateries across L.A. (for those of you who follow me on Facebook & Twitter, it was like you were along for the ride.) Movie people opt to meet at restaurants & bars over boardrooms and I totally dig that! Long story short, we found an executive director for our film. Now the real work begins.

Coffee is a kind bean. I learned long ago that my creative juices flow from an espresso machine and come in the form of a Latte – the more venti the better. I FourSquared my way through the city, never gracing the door of the same Starbucks twice.

I ♥ L.A. !!! It’s my kind of city. “Liquid Gold” Lattes on every other corner.

Man can not survive on Lattes alone. The more memorable eats included a spicy dinner at the rock’n roll gritty TOI Thai with super hot Pleasant Gehman (Star of the Macon-filmed “Stuck!”) who regaled us with tales of being recently sawed in half on a Las Vegas stage and her latest film “The Casserole Club” about Swinging in the 60′s. (check out Maconite Maryann Bates’ exellent movie stills from the set.) We had some sumptuous sushi at a sidewalk table at Sushiya between the cold couple sitting next to us and the hot red Ferraris parked on Sunset Blvd. By far, the most unforgettable dish was “Mom’s French Toast” @ The Griddle Café on Sunset Blvd. Our server had the look of a serial killer with dead eyes and yet gave some “killer” food suggestions. “Tony” turned me on to the BEST French Toast I’ve ever had in my life! If you are in L.A., The Griddle Café is a MUST! Excellent food and fairly quick service…especially if you work the hair flip.

Footballer Steve Bartkowski’s wife, Sandee, invited us out to Malibu for dinner & drinks one night…all I can say is: WOW! “I … just adore a penthouse view…darling I love ya but give me my Malibu!” This was way better than my last trip to Malibu where I got in this weird other-wordly convo with a spaced-out Gary Busey.

Another friend invited us onto the set of NBC’s “Parks & Recreation” where we watched one scene being shot. Amy Poehler gets locked in a room at a cat-filled bed & breakfast.

Ok, back to the being held hostage part….we were invited out to Burbank for the final rehearsal of Elton John & Leon Russell’s tour of their new album “The Union.” The Friday rehearsal was rescheduled for Tuesday. We were scheduled to fly home on Sunday…they asked us to stay…so we did. Elton wanted Joseph to photograph the session. This was the opportunity of a lifetime! We get there…along with T.Bone Burnett, Bernie Taupin, Elton John, Leon Russell and Allman Brothers fan & Academy Award winning director Cameron Crowe. Now picture this…The full orchestra behind two pianos…in front of the pianos were two couches where I sat and enjoyed the most amazing private concert.

Elton started it off with “Levon” & “Tiny Dancer.” The audience: me, T Bone, Bernie, Cameron, the sound guys & Cameron’s film crew. Enter: The Goose Bumps! Joseph’s photos (including the following) have made world-wide media.

* Rolling Stone has given “The Union” 5 Stars. The CD will be in stores this week.

A shout out to my groovy brother-in-law, Tony Williams, for putting us up & putting up with us!

*** THRILL KILL CULT ***

Thriller Dance Practice. Every Thursday in October @ 7pm. Tattnall Square Park – directly across from Mercer University.

Netherworld Haunted House – Atlanta, Georgia. “Netherworld is a pinnacle haunted house attraction that truly transforms actors into horrific monsters of fright. This haunt is the industry leader in developing new scare techniques utilizing the perfect balance of live actor/animatronic scare zones. Outside the entrance, a dedicated army of monsters scare patrons before ever even entering the doorway. “America’s scariest haunted house.” –USA TODAY

If you’d prefer to get your fright on a little closer to home..check out The F.E.A.R. Institute. Third Street, Downtown Macon. October 22, 23, 27-31. 8p – Midnight.

Spirits in October. Oct 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30. $20 Adults, $10 Students.

“The Little Foxes” @ Theatre Macon. October 22 – 30. Call for tix: 746-9485.

Drag Queen Bingo @ The Hummingbird. Thursday, Oct. 28th. 7p -9p.

Big Screen Movie Night: “The Birds” @ Riverside Cemetery. Thursday, Oct. 28th. 8pm. FREE.

The 4th Annual Thriller Dance will be on October 30th @ 7pm.

Serial Killers are the new Black!
The Kill Room Halloween Party @ The SoChi Gallery. Oct. 30th @ 10p. Signature Cocktail: The Killer Cosmo. Attire: Fashion Victim. if you can’t figure that out: think “Serial Killer” or “Victim” attire. Music by DJ Dirty.

Brett Butler LIVE! @ Cox Capitol Theatre. Nov. 5th @ 8pm. Tix: $40 Floor/Reserved Seating, $25 Balcony/General Admission. 478-257-6391.

Fly South Fest. Nov. 6th. 2p ’til 10:30p. Amerson Water Works Park.

Made-in-Macon film “Stuck!” is now available for Pre-Order.

The Macon Film Festival is calling for sponsors for the 2011 film festival. Be Cool & Sponsor one of the hottest events in Macon! For more info, email me @ Terrell@TerrellSandefur.com

Calling all SoChilites! Show your SoChi pride by slapping a SoChi destination sticker on the back of your car. Buy yours @ The SoChi Gallery. 534 Second Street, Macon, GA 31201. 478-238-6630.

HALLOWEEN QUIP WORTH TWEETING ABOUT:
“I recognize your writing, Weezer. You have the penmanship of a serial killer…” – Claree, Steel Magnolias

COMMENTS ARE AMUSING & WELCOME!

F.E.A.R. Institute Haunted House opens Tonight! 450 – 3rd Street. $13 / $11 with Student or Military I.D.

“Oil & Ink” Art Opening for comic artists Craig Hamilton, Steve Scott & Ray Snyder. And Ceramics by Michael Schmidt. 5-8p Macon Arts’ Gallery on First Street. FREE. Wine & Hors. The exhibit is up during the month of October.

Rick Hutto’s Book Launch “A Peculiar Tribe of People: Murder & Madness in the Heart of Georgia” @ Market City Café. 6p – 8p

Famed Fiddler Robert McDuffie @ the Grand Opera House. 7pm. SOLD OUT

Tony Joe White blues concert @ Cox Capitol Theatre.

Cult of Riggonia CD Release Party @ Grant’s Lounge. 8 pm.

Contemporary Arts Exchange on Mulberry St. Open House 6p – 8p.….stroll through the galleries and meet all the artists.

Caleb Grimes & the Scott Little Band @ The Hummingbird. 10p.

Greek Festival @ Holy Cross Greek Church. 859 First Street. Oct. 1st – 3rd

“The Social Network” (Facebook movie) opens tonight … the creation of Facebook. Mark Zuckerberg & his 5,000,000 friends.

FUTURE LOVE PARADISE

F.E.A.R. Institute Haunted House. Weekends through October.

Netherworld Haunted House opens tonight in Norcross, GA. Ranked the #1 Haunted House in America by USA TODAY. $22 or $27/person.

Cherry Blossom’s LEVEE FEST. Saturday, Oct. 2nd $10 / BBQ Cookoff, Kids world, live music beginning @ 11am. Corey Smith @ 8pm.

Heart of the Dragon Festival. Lake Tobesofkee. Racing Dragon Boats to benefit the Big Brothers & Big Sisters organization. Saturday, Oct. 2nd. 9a-1p.

Macon Book Fair @ the City Auditorium. Saturday, Oct. 2nd. 10a – Noon.

Macon Musicians Guild Concert EVERY TUESDAY @ 9pm @ The Golden Bough Bookstore on Cotton Ave. Local musicians & songwriters perform. FREE.

Every Thursday night in October, choreographer Pilar Wilder will teach you the Michael Jackson Thriller Dance moves. Classes every Thursday night in October @ 7pm. FREE.

Drag Queen Bingo @ The Hummingbird on Thursday, Oct. 14th & 28th.

“Death Trap” @ Macon Little Theatre. Oct. 15th – 24th.

Drink ‘N Draw @ Mellow Mushroom. Thursday, Oct. 21st

Night at the Museum BUG SLEEPOVER. For Children 8 to 12 yrs of age. Friday, Oct. 22nd. Museum of Arts & Sciences.

“The Little Foxes” @ Theatre Macon opens Oct. 22nd – Oct. 30th.

Brett Butler stand up comedy show at Cox Capitol Theatre. Wednesday, Oct. 27th.

Macon Film Festival & College Hill presents: “THE BIRDS” in Riverside Cemetery. FREE. 8pm. Thursday, Oct. 28th.

Abby Owens performing at Smith’s Old Bar in Atlanta. Oct. 28th

Savannah Film Festival. Oct. 30th-Nov 6th. Special Guests this year will be Isabella Rossellini, Ian McKellen & Liam Neeson.

The 11th Hour presents The Thriller Dance – downtown Macon. Oct. 30th. 7p

“The Kill Room” Halloween Party @ The SoChi Gallery. Serial Killers are the new Black! Sat, Oct. 30th @ 10pm.

BOOK YOU HOLIDAY EVENTS @ THE SoChi Gallery…now: 478-238-6630