See The Giver

This weekend, and this weekend only, JSU’s Alpha Psi Omega (APO) presents the stage adaptation of “The Giver,” Lois Lowry’s Newberry Award winning book. We asked student Director and APO President Alexis Loren Robinson to share about this upcoming production.

Tell me about APO and this weekend’s production selection.
We are a theatre honor society. We are a group of theatre artists dedicated to spreading theatre as far as we can within our community. Each year we do a children's show to reach local youth, and this year, that show is The Giver.

As President of APO, what do you love most about theatre & how did you get into JSU’s drama department?
I love that theatre has a story for everyone. I am actually a transfer student. I initially went to Berry College in Rome, Georgia, but never felt quite at home there, so I transfered here on word of mouth and never looked back!

As the director, what about “The Giver” story do you enjoy most?
I have always loved The Giver. I read the book around age 11 and have always held it dear to me heart. I think Jonas' determination to see the world change is what I love most about this particular story.

What do you want audiences to gain by seeing a performance?
I want them to understand someone else's perspective a little better after watching this piece.

What’s been your favorite element of production development for “The Giver?”
My favorite part has been watching my actors figure out this strange world in which the play is set. There are so many things, pieces of information, that paint a bigger picture that becomes pretty disturbing the more you look into it.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned through this production?
I have learned that all good things take time. This is my first mainstage show, and all of the technical elements have been theoretical up until recently. It is so rewarding to see something that you've seen in your head, for months, come to life before your eyes. It is pretty magical.

Why should visitors and residents come to Stone Center this weekend and see the show?
This show has heart. It is designed to make you look through a child's eyes at the promise of a new tomorrow. The messages in this show ring true for all ages.

Get your tickets for April 20-21 at 7:30 PM or April 22 at 2:30 PM at JSU's Ernest Stone Performing Arts Center, 11th Street NE, in Jacksonville.

Something for Everyone

Where can you go to walk beside peaceful waters and be surrounded by mountain views and soak up sunshine and

clear blue skies?

Choccolocco Park is a great recreational facility for all ages and interest. With trails ranging from  one mile to 5K and with very little elevation change, it’s perfect for an afternoon outdoors and for learning, with panels telling the region’s history stretching back thousands of years including the  spiritual heritage of the park where a thriving Native American town once was.

Now, the park is also home to more than 300 acres of baseball, softball, track & field, and soccer amenities too. With more than 10 baseball and softball fields, the park is also home to a complete track and field facility, featuring an eight-lane rubberized track built to NCAA regulations, locker rooms, grandstands, restrooms, storage facility, and sports medicine room, capable of hosting events like the hammer throw, steeplechase. javelin, pole vault, long-jump, triple long-jump, high jump, discos throw, shot put, and more.Currently, the park also features four AHSAA and NCAA regulated soccer fields.

Choccolocco Park also features two great playgrounds including a fully accessible Boundless Playground, built for  people of all ages, abilities, and disabilities.

This weekend, see the Gamecocks Baseball team in action at Choccolocco Park! #ExploreMore

Sounds of Fall

For 60 years, as football season approaches, the echos of the drumline signal the Jacksonville State University Marching Southerners are ready to take the field. Some locals "sneak" into practice to admire the sound of around 500 musicians, color guard and marching ballerinas, or drive around town with their windows down to take in the sounds of the Southerners.

Although the first band for JSU was formed around 1923, and the first full time band director did not start until 1948, in the fall of 1956, the Marching Southerners and Ballerinas made their official debut.
The Marching Southerners' unique sound reminds one more of a orchestra than a typical marching band. Their unique sound is packed with trumpets, bass trombones and 20-J tubas. Their look is military-like in precision and artistic in formations.

The Marching Southerners have played in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee and on the U.S.S. Missouri for the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Crowds rise to their feet in applause after each and every performance. Once you see them perform, in person, you'll understand why they're regarded as one of the best marching bands in the land.

Drop the Keys

 
Calhoun County is blessed to have the longest paved rail to trail project in the US running through its heart, connecting the cities of Piedmont, Jacksonville, Weaver and Anniston. Cities like Anniston and Oxford are developing bike share plans that include bike routes and lanes. In the meantime, you can see much of our County while staying on your bike.

Our part of the trail picks up 13 miles outside  Piedmont at the State Line, where it connects to Georgia's Silver Comet trail leading into Smyrna.

The City of Piedmont maintains this entire section, which wanders through and along the edge of the Talladega National Forest and includes beautiful views of Terrapin Creek, intersects with the Pinhoti Hiking Trail and surrounds you with picturesque landscapes including Dugger Mountain. As you enter Piedmont, trail users frequent the Eubanks Welcome Center, for the facilities or the hospitality and history one finds there. The trail runs through Piedmont's quaint downtown, which includes the infamous Solid Rock Cafe, with it's delicious occasional Sunday buffet, menu favorites like Chicken Salad, and the always refreshing Powerade slushie.

Continuing for about ten miles, trail users make their way to Jacksonville, via Germania Springs Park. The trail then enters the campus of Jacksonville State University, just a few hundred yards from many notable restaurants like Cooter Brown's Rib Shack, Effina's, Java Jolt and much more! Along the trail, the Jacksonville Train Depot, much like Eubanks, is another stop that trail users frequent for facilities and may be asked to sign in for tracking trail visitors.

Making their way to the south, trail users pass the Jacksonville Community Center, Jacksonville's Kitty Stone Elementary and Jacksonville High, before entering Weaver. Near the community center as well as the schools, users will notice trail spurs for locals to use in safely accessing the trails. As they cross Weaver's Main Street, users will notice Elwell Park, complete with parking adjacent to Weaver's Police Station, a great trail head if trail users plan to leave their car over night.

While the trail currently goes a short distance into Anniston, plans have been developed to continue the trail to what was once Fort McClellan via a spur as well as completing the old rail-bed to the downtown area, connecting users to Amtrak's Cresent Line Route in Anniston as well as the Coldwater Mountain Bike Trails.

In addition, as one may notice on Strava and other route tracking apps, there are also several road routes area cyclist frequent, including the Dugger Mountain Wilderness, DeArmanville and Golden Springs, Skyline Drive at Cheaha State Park and much more. 

Calhoun County Arts Groups & Collectives

From growing arts scenes, events and venues, Calhoun County has many talented artists, whether musicians, painters, photographers, writers or other art forms. Various groups allow these artists to collaborate and develop works and events together to make Calhoun County a great place to work, live and visit.

Arts Collective Jacksonville

This group of artists has partnered with businesses, the City of Jacksonville and Jacksonville State to create events and created a community innovative and collaborative artists to build opportunities to show works, share resources, and support projects of others.

Jacksonville Arts Council

This group was created to coordinate and assist with cultural activities and develop outlets for arts in the Jacksonville Community. These artists and those passionate about arts organize historical, craft and community events that showcase local talent. 

The Anniston Council on the Arts & Humanities 

This organization is a "catalyst" for creative economy, implementing socially engaged art and projects that respond to challenges in the community, leverage the creativity of citizens, and aim to create opportunity. 

Artworks Alliance
This organization of artists and art supporters bring together those in and around Oxford to create special events, competitions, collaborations, community programs and promote artists, musicians, actors, dancers and writers in the community. 

Terrapin Creek Music and Arts Collective 

This Piedmont group works with the goal of promoting local artists and introducing the artists to the community and together to create. From free music events to festivals and more, this group organizes community activities. 

"Sweet Home Alabama"

There's one place that can completely capture those "skies so blue," Cheaha State Park. Home to Alabama's Highest Point and the JSU Mountain Center, the park also hosts hiking trails, including the Pinhoti, mountain bike trails, a handicap accessible walkway to Bald Rock, an observation tower at the highest point, campgrounds, cabins and chalets for rent, a motel and restaurant, museums and so much more!
Towering 2,407 feet above sea level, Creek Indians named this spot "Chaha," or high place, with views that seem to go on forever in the heart of the surrounding Talladega National Forest.
Surrounded by natural beauty, this location is perfect for a picnic, photographs and events. There are so many recreational opportunities! Come enjoy tranquility and stand in awe of the surroundings.
Cheaha State Park also offers tons of programs for the whole family. From Pottery and Basket Weaving to campfire talks and discovery hikes, Cheaha has something for everyone.
*Make time to check out the Pulpit Rock Trail. Complete with Native American Trail Marker Tree Points, this short but steep walk offers the most rewarding view overlooking the lake and national forest. 
Adventure is waiting! Learn more at VisitCalhounCounty.com!

Dixie Youth Little League World Series

Come scout and discover future baseball stars during the Dixie Youth Little League World Series August 4 through 10 at Choccolocco Park in Oxford. 
August 4th, 36 teams will participate in skills competitions and the World Series Opening Ceremonies. Tournament play will begin August 5th. 
Choccolocco Park is an outdoor sports complex with state-of-the-art amenities for baseball, softball, track and field, and soccer. The park also has three walking paths that go around the historic Indian mound, a 30-acre lake, and plenty of green space in between, that connect for a total of 2.7 miles.
With amenities for every person in your family, including a Boundless Playground to include children of all abilities, Choccolocco Park welcomes you to come and enjoy our facilities to their fullest extent. 
Located just off Leon Smith Parkway near the Oxford Exchange and Commons, the park trails feature interpretive plaques capturing the history of the 19th century Muscogee (Creek) Nation that called Choccolocco home. 
Come discover this diamond of Calhoun County and all of its treasures. From delicious food to outdoor and cultural adventures, we've got it all and more! Check out VisitCalhounCounty.com! Adventure Awaits! 

Safety on the Water

Summertime is the perfect time to take advantage of the great paddling adventures Calhoun County has to offer. There are many exciting places to hit the water, but remember, safety first! Keep these five tips in mind for a safe and fun trip.


1. Wear a life jacket!

There have been multiple instances of drowning in Alabama this year, most could have been prevented if the individual was wearing a life jacket. Alabama law requires all children under the age of 8 to wear a life jacket while on the water. Although this law is aimed towards children, people of all ages should be wearing a life jacket at all times while in the water. This one piece of equipment, often overlooked, could mean the difference between life and death.

2. Take a course

Before beginning a water adventure, it is encouraged that first time paddlers take a safety course. There are many skilled instructors around the county that can teach paddlers basic safety and directional skills to make the trip easier to enjoy.

The Cheaha Canoe Club has classes for beginners and more skilled paddlers. This class is led by certified American Canoe Association instructors and requires an RSVP, as they only take small groups at a time.

Kids ages 9-18 can join the 4-H River Kids program. This program is designed to give kids the opportunity to acquire paddling skills, learn about ecology, and water safety. 

3. Never paddle alone

It is important to never get on the water by alone. In the event of an emergency, having an extra person to call for help or administer first aid can be very helpful. Plus, it’s always nice to share the adventure and beautiful scenery with a friend!

4. Know where you’re going

Be sure to make sure the area you’re paddling is appropriate for your skill level. Beginners should stick with Class I rapids, where the water is moving but still easy to manage. Review maps and trails to ensure you don’t end up in water that you cannot navigate.

5. Plan ahead

Check the weather conditions. Be aware of water and weather temperatures. If there is low visibility or fog, stay off the water. Check water levels. If the water levels are too high, it can be very dangerous. The currents may be too heavy and debris may clog up the rivers.

June Brides

Wedding season is upon us, which means many couples in Calhoun County are looking for the perfect place to say “I do.” The scenic views surrounding Calhoun County give couples a beautiful backdrop for their special day. We spoke with garden enthusiast turned wedding floral designer Kathryn Bowen of Kathryn Anne Weddings to find her picks for the best scenic wedding venues in the county.

Long Leaf Botanical Gardens & Event Center 

Tucked away behind the Berman Museum and the Anniston Museum of Natural History, The Long Leaf Botanical Gardens & Event Center offers a space for couples wanting a quiet and intimate wedding venue. 

There are options for either an outside ceremony, surrounded by a beautiful garden, or an indoor ceremony using the elegant event center. The gardens are still in progress, so this venue will only become more beautiful as time goes on. To get information on this venue, contact Gina Morey at (256) 237-6261 x325 or email gmorey@annistonmuseum.org. 

The Michael Wedding Barn

Formerly The Foundation Ranch, The Michael Wedding Barn is a beautiful venue for couples who want to be surrounded by the beautiful scenery Calhoun County has to offer. This 100 acre farm on Choccolocco Rd in Anniston, AL has many different locations for a ceremony, indoors and outdoors. The newly built, elegant barn holds up to 500 guests, perfect for any unexpected weather situations. For more information on this venue, email themichaelbarn@aol.com or visit their Facebook page.

SouthWind Plantation

Right off HWY 431 in Wellington, AL, the SouthWind Plantation is an elegant venue with stunning views anywhere you look. The 6,000 sq. ft. event barn was built from timber milled from trees that fell during the April 27, 2011 tornadoes that struck the area. This unique barn has two floors and can be used for both ceremonies and receptions. For couples wanting an outside affair, the area by a serene creek and large arbor would be a great option. Email southernladyenterprises@gmail.com for more information or call (256) 453-6323. 

Fiddler’s Green

This beautiful property in Jacksonville, AL is perfect for a classic outdoor affair. With several different areas for both the ceremony and reception, there is an option for everyone. The Main House, The Chapel, and the Cabin serve as a wonderful backdrop for a ceremony. A reception could be held in The Garden, the General Store, or The Cabin. Fiddler’s Green can accommodate up to 250 guests outside and 65 guests inside the chapel. For those interested, couples are welcome to use several antique decorations at no extra cost. To get more information on this unique venue visit www.fiddlersgreenalabama.com/weddings-receptions/.

Cider Ridge Golf Club

Located in Oxford, AL, this is an ideal venue for those wanting an intimate wedding. The newly renovated clubhouse can seat up to 60 guests inside and up to 80 guests outside. The 2 adjoining rooms and outdoor patio overlook the 18th hole and give guests the ultimate view of the mountains. The Cider Ridge Golf Club offers on-site catering, custom menu and wine selections, and bridal and groomsmen party gold packages. For more information, visit www.ciderridgegolf.com/weddings/ or call (256) 861-7222.

Wanting to bring the outdoors inside? Kathryn uses local greenery and flowers to incorporate the lush Alabama scenery into her designs, often times using flowers out of her own garden. Whether the bride is looking for more of a rustic look using wood and ferns, or a more elegant look with local flowers, any theme can use what Alabama has to offer. To get more information on Kathryn Anne Weddings, visit her website: http://kathrynanneweddings.com/ or check out her work on Instagram and Facebook

While summertime in Calhoun County is beautiful, the weather can be unpredictable. While speaking with Kathryn, she mentioned the importance of having a “Plan B” ahead of time. If couples are planning on an outdoor wedding, it is important to also plan for an inside affair either by renting a tent for guests, or checking with the venue to see what options are available. This should be done well in advance in order to avoid stress during the special day.

For more event venues, check out www.visitcalhouncounty.com/events/event-venues. 

Blog by: Mackenzie Corbin

Almost Like Home

From a long hidden tintype to recast medallions, modeled after the originals destroyed by fire, the Springwood Inn and former home of Anniston Founder Samuel Noble is full of history. Legend has it, negotiations were made on the porch to begin the local newspaper, The Anniston Star.

This home once stood on the site now occupied by Anniston High School, but in 1967, the property was seized. At that time, the Woodruff family owned the property, and decided to have the home moved, piece by piece, to be historically preserved on the outskirts of Anniston. The home stayed in the Woodruff family until 2014, when this cozy and quaint property in Booger Hollow was purchased by Bob and Carolyn Orchid.

Original moulding and accents detail the house, furnished with the Orchid's beautiful french and antique furniture, capturing the 130 years this home has seen. The front porch has a breathtaking view of the highest point in Alabama, Mount Cheaha.

Each morning, gourmet breakfasts are served to guests, and optional wine tastings are available in the evening. Movie showings are available for guests in the theatre room, featuring a stained glass window acquired by the Woodruff family from the Noble Opera House. The accommodations are beautifully surrounded by nature, ponds, streams and spring blossoms, nestled in a private and picture perfect location for weddings and events. 

Book your stay now, and find the many reading nooks or simply spots to relax and enjoy your stay in a piece of Anniston's history.

Perfect for Pickers

Calhoun County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a haven for history buffs and "American Pickers" fans.
From antique shops to markets, Calhoun County has everything you could want, as well as things you like and didn't know you needed.

Anniston Galleries has general line of antiques from the 18th and 19th century.
906 Noble Street, Anniston, AL 36201 - (256) 236-3741

Auction Treasures has antiques, glassware, clothes, furniture, re-purposed & handcrafted furniture, tools, jewelry, housewares & home décor.
1005 Gurnee Ave, Anniston, Alabama 36201 - (256) 294-1764

Calhoun Pickers is a 36,000 square foot Antique Mall  and Indoor Market with more than 180 vendors selling a combination of Antiques, Crafts, Art, Jewelry, and Furniture.
801 Wilmer Ave, Anniston, AL 36201 - (256) 403-6865

Apple Barrel Antiques is a huge two story log building, housing any antique treasure you can imagine. They also buy gold and silver. 

1906 US Highway 78 E, Oxford, Alabama 36203 - (256) 835-1937

Birds of a Feather Vintage Antiques & Restorations is filled with wonderful, unique and vintage items,furniture, jewelry, gifts, architectural, and art.

502 Main St, Oxford, Alabama 36203 - (256) 403-2991

Cotton Antiques and Collectibles has a little bit of everything and something for everyone. Located in downtown historic Oxford, this building dates back to the late 1800s. 

518 Main St, Oxford, Alabama 36203 - (256) 835-6000

Timeless Treasures Antique Mall is a multi dealer mall, carrying a range of antique furniture, from French and European to early American, a large variety of glassware and more collectibles.
230 Davis Loop, Oxford, Alabama 36203 - (256) 832-0500

Crows Nest Antiques and More has antiques with an array of items to choose from. This Store is very unusual and has a lot to choose from !

2631 US Highway 431, Anniston, Alabama 36206 - (256) 343-8822

Olde South Antique Mall has everything from Antiques, collectibles, books, coins, currency, jewelry, advertising, furniture, knives, primitives, tools, military, records and vintage clothing.

405 Pelham Rd N, Jacksonville, Alabama 36265 - (256) 435-7670

Antique Corner has beautiful and eclectic items from yesterday and today. They have antique dishes, furniture, art, cooking utensils, holiday items...the list is endless.

101 N Center Ave, Piedmont, Alabama 36272 - (256) 283-4943

Valley Antiques & Collectibles has about two dozen dealers in 4,500 square feet of shopping space, with everything from vintage textiles and glassware to antique furniture and niche collectibles. 

6312 US Highway 431, Alexandria, Alabama 36250 - (256) 820-0025

Tail Feathers sells home decor pieces, local art and painted furniture. 

101 Clinton St SE, Jacksonville, Alabama 36265 - (256) 283-5075

Puttin' On the Ritz has jewelry, clothes, games, and more collectibles. 

2255 Pelham Road S, Jacksonville, AL 36265 - (256) 435-1999

Dishman Antiques is a 27,000 square foot mall of fine antiques and collectibles located between Anniston and Gadsden. 

10770 U.S. Hwy 431 N, Wellington, AL 36279 - (256) 892-2424