Remembering The Flame
In the chronicle of Statesboro lore, many remember the legendary nightclub, The Flame. Situated off of Chandler Road, the somewhat notorious nightspot opened Friday, November 13, 1970 and catered specifically to Georgia Southern students, faculty and staff. A group of Statesboro investors called College Center Incorporated conceived of the establishment. When the club opened, patrons could pay five dollars per month or two dollars for admission as a non-member. Over the years, The Flame became a venue for local and regional bands like The Critical Mass and Wheatstone Mission.
The November 24, 1970 edition of the George-Anne covered the opening weekend. A description of the interior decor is enough to take you straight back to the days of disco:
“The color scheme includes cadet blue, oxblood gold, and lime green. An optical illusion of vertical stripes is behind the bar. The entire club has blue-green carpeting, except for the green-checkered dance floor.” In addition to visual stimulation courtesy of the decor, the club featured pool tables, pinball machines, a jukebox, and a bar serving affordable libations. By catering to the university crowd exclusively, the Flame provided a space for students to blow off steam, decompress after classes, and enjoy live music and entertainment. One writer called it “the closest Statesboro has to big city entertainment ” in 1977.
The club had the tragic fate of living up to its namesake and burning down not once, but twice. It also came under fire (figuratively this time) for its lack of parking, and contribution to dangerous pedestrian traffic off of Chandler Road. With its demise, many students and alumni lamented the loss of their favorite haunt and an iconic piece of campus life. Whether alumni called it “The Flame” or its “classier” nickname “Le Club Flambeau,” many who attended Georgia Southern in the 1970s and 1980s remember the club as an iconic facet of campus culture.”
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Statesboro Landmark Coloring Pages
Statesboro Landmarks Coloring Page
Looking for a few extra activities while the kids are at home? If you have a printer, feel free to click on any of these images for a printable PDF coloring page. There are also facts and summaries of each landmark you can use to teach your kids a little something about Statesboro.
The first coloring page is all of the landmarks combined and based on a vintage-style print available at the Statesboro Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Averitt Center for the Arts
This beautiful building, constructed in 1911, was originally the Bank of Statesboro. Sadly, the bank closed down in 1932 after it could not recover from a “run on the bank” during the Great Depression.
The City bought the building in 1997 after decades of various uses and they established a community arts center for the downtown area.
The Averitt Center for the Arts has been very careful to upkeep the historical integrity of the building, and the old Bank of Statesboro now contains art galleries, visual and performing arts studios, classrooms, and office space.
Bulloch County Courthouse
The centerpiece of downtown Statesboro is the Bulloch County Courthouse. The courthouse was deliberately placed at a high point to permanently make it the most prominent landmark around. The commercial hub of the city developed around the courthouse square.
The courthouse was built in 1894 and renovated in 1914. Since then it’s been renovated several times using many different colors of brick. It was eventually completely coated in white plaster until the county commission decided to restore the courthouse to it’s original look by removing some of the plaster and painting over the rest. The courthouse is still in use today!
Eagle Nation on Parade
Eagle Nation On Parade is a public art project that salutes the University’s traditions, celebrates the unity of campus and community, contributes to the economic vitality and quality of life in Statesboro, and supports student scholarships and research.
These eagles can be seen all over Statesboro, each painted with a different theme. Create your own theme on this eagle!
For more information on Eagle Nation on Parade CLICK HERE
Emma Kelly Theater
Originally called the Georgia Theater, it was constructed in 1936 in the Art Deco style, reflecting the glamour of Hollywood. It was among the first of its kind to offer air conditioning and steam heat, as well as a coffee shop in the library.
The theater was operated as a movie theater until the 1970s, previewing movies such as Gone With The Wind in 1940.
In 1997, the City of Statesboro purchased the building for renovation as part of the Averitt Center project.
It was decided the theater would be named after local legend Emma Kelly, the “Lady of 6000” songs. She was dubbed this title by songwriter Johnny Mercer. Kelly sang for many U.S. Presidents and appeared in John Berendt’s ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.’
Allen E. Paulson Stadium
Paulson Stadium is the 25,000 seat home of the Georgia Southern Eagles Football team. It completed construction in 1984 and coined “The Prettiest Little Stadium in America” by legendary Coach Erk Russell. It has also become known as “Our House” by Eagles fans.
The stadium was named after the founder and owner of Gulfstream Aerospace, Allen E. Paulson, who donated $1 million to the project. A $10 million renovation was completed in 2014.
Fun Fact: The first touchdown in Paulson Stadium is credited to Tracy Ham (quarterback) after a 36 yard run in September of 1984.
City Hall / Historic Jaeckel Hotel
The current City Hall was once the social center of town. In 1905, the Jaeckel Hotel opened its doors to the booming tourist city. The hotel was constructed by local architect AJ Franklin for Berlin–native Gustave Jaeckel.
The first floor of the hotel contained a grand dining hall and gentlemen and ladies parlors. The porch on the second floor once sported a garden and canvas cover for use in the warm months.
The hotel played host to many guests like: Henry Ford, William Jennings Bryan, former Secretary of State; Blind Willie McTell who played countless songs on the hotel steps, and Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1935.
In 1994, the city purchased the hotel, and after a $1.5 million renovation, readapted it to become City Hall. The historic character of the Jaeckel is still present in the building and the old neon sign for the hotel hangs on the east side.
Happy Coloring!
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Caffeine Cravings & Beyond
More than just a cup of coffee! Check out Three Tree Coffee Roasters when you Visit Statesboro.
Fall into Fun in November
November in Statesboro is packed full of live performances, fall themed events, and family fun!
Click the thumbnail below to see the November newsletter:
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“The Platters” Bring Their “Magic Touch” to Georgia Southern’s Performing Arts Center
The Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern is thrilled to welcome the illustrious Motown group The Platters for an exciting performance as a part of their 2018-2019 Main Stage Season. Tickets are on sale now and going quickly for the Sunday, October 14, 2018 matinee.
Formed in 1952, The Platters crashed through the music industry’s racial barriers and onto the rock n’ roll scene to become one of the century’s most important, famous vocal groups. Propelled by the success of their debut single, the romantic ballad “Only You (and You Alone),” the group went on to entertain America and the world for decades.
Their extensive soulful repertoire includes favorites such as “Enchanted,” “Magic Touch,” and No. 1 hits “My Prayer,” “Twilight Time,” and the incomparable “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” The current lineup includes veteran performers of film, stage, and screen, Wayne Miller, Adele Galinda “DD” Grey Martin, Lance Bernard Bryant, and Kenny Williams. Today, The Platters continue to captivate audiences of all ages worldwide with great storytelling, soaring voices, and dazzling choreography.
Performing Arts Center Director Stacie McDaniel notes, “We could not be happier to get to share the joy of The Platters with audiences here in Statesboro, GA. The Motown style of music still speaks to so many and helps us relive such a storied moment in rock and roll history. Plus it’s just a great time! I would not be surprised to see the audience dancing in the aisles!”
Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for youth 17 and under, and are on sale now at the Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern Box Office. Discounts are available for Georgia Southern students and faculty/staff. Group rates for groups of 10 or more are also available. Visit the Box Office in person Monday-Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, or purchase tickets over the phone at 912-478-7999 or online at www.georgiasouthern.edu/pac.
Please contact Stacie McDaniel for more information:
[email protected]
912-478-0830
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Kickoff September in Statesboro!
Georgia Southern Eagle Football is back and nobody celebrates the season better than True Blue fans! The excitement doesn’t stop there, though! September in Statesboro is bursting at the seams with live music including country music legend Tanya Tucker, Victor Wainwright and the Train, and a celebration of the music of Tom Petty. Bring the kids to Brooklet for the 29th Annual Peanut Festival and be sure to get tickets early for The Addams Family Musical at the Averitt Center for the Arts. Check out our weekly calendar to see where you can kick back with karaoke or trivia and be sure to put the Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market on your “to do” list when you Visit Statesboro..
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Country Legend TANYA TUCKER To Play at Georgia Southern’s PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
The Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern is excited to present famed country music artist Tanya Tucker for the opening performance of their 2018-2019 Main Stage Season on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at 7:30 pm. Season packages are on sale now, and single tickets will be on sale starting August 20.
For decades, Tucker’s sultry voice and vivacious stage presence have helped to make her one of the most admired and respected female artists in country music. A defining voice of the genre and a modern-day legend, Tanya Tucker’s reign has included 23 Top 40 albums, 10 No. 1 hit Billboard singles, and numerous awards, including two Country Music Association (CMA) awards, two Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards, three Country Music Television (CMT awards), and 10 Grammy nominations.
From her signature classic songs to the unforgettable sass and soul of her voice, Tucker has paved a path in country music and beyond through an unprecedented level of success and continues her longevity today due to a natural, undeniable talent. Come see this legend live, as she performs all of her biggest hits, including “Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone),” “Love Me Like You Used To,” “Strong Enough to Bend,” “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane,” and the classic favorite, the song that made her a star, “Delta Dawn.”
Says Performing Arts Center Director Stacie McDaniel, “Hosting Tanya Tucker here at the Performing Arts Center is like a dream come true. I grew up on her music, and she is without a doubt one of the powerhouses of the country music genre. I can’t wait! We are anticipating huge crowds for this show, so get your tickets fast!”
Tickets are $27 for adults and $15 for youth 17 and under, and are on sale now at the Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern Box Office. Discounts are available for Georgia Southern students and faculty/staff. Group rates for groups of 10 or more are also available. Visit the Box Office in person Monday-Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, or purchase tickets over the phone at 912-478-7999 or online at www.georgiasouthern.edu/pac.
Please contact Stacie McDaniel for more information:
[email protected]
912-478-0830
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Don’t Miss “Mutts Gone Nut”s at the Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern
Expect the unexpected as The Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern University welcomes canine comedy show “Mutts Gone Nuts” on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm. Tickets for this show are on sale now and going fast!
Since 1985, comedy duo Scott and Joan Houghton have brought their unique blend of physical comedy and circus arts to audiences from Las Vegas to Tokyo. In 2005, they turned their attention to a creating a comedy dog act. Their nine amazing canine partners are all adopted from animal shelters and rescues, and have been trained with positive, reward-based training methods.
This top-notch presentation includes incredibly high-flying Frisbee dogs, tightwire dogs, dancing dogs, magic dogs, and of course, the one and only Sammie the Talking Dog! Mutts Gone Nuts is sure to unleash havoc and hilarity as the Houghtons attempt to match wits with their mischievous mutts in a family-friendly performance that has been leaving audiences across the country howling for more.
Says Performing Arts Center Director Stacie McDaniel, “I could not imagine a more fun way to end our season here at the PAC. Our whole staff has been waiting all year for this event. The show itself is going to be incredibly funny, but I also love that it’s bringing some much-needed attention to the dogs themselves, who have all been adopted from rescues – look how far they’ve come! Such a super-talented group of animals.”
Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for youth 17 and under, and are on sale now at the Performing Arts Center at Georgia Southern Box Office. Discounts are available for Georgia Southern students and faculty/staff. Group rates for groups of 10 or more are also available. Visit the Box Office in person Monday-Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, or purchase tickets over the phone at 912-478-7999 or online at www.georgiasouthern.edu/pac.
2 Shows on April 28th: 2pm & 7:30pm
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Georgia Southern Theatre & Performance Closes the Season with Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure
by Chatise R. Smith –
In a world where morality is being mandated, Shakespeare explores the hypocrisy of sexual politics. Angelo, a strict, moralistic politician, has been appointed by the Duke to govern in his absence. Angelo uses his new authority to clean up the city. Until he meets Isabella, a young nun whose brother is facing death as a result of Angelo’s laws. He makes her a bargain, if she sleeps with him, her brother goes free.
The age old tale of injustice depicts what happens when an immoral ruler imposes moral laws in a society devoid of forgiveness. This production’s contemporary setting emphasizes the universal nature of Shakespeare’s work as it comments on the sexual and moral politics of modern America. In this time of #metoo the play is even more prevalent to a modern audience. A New York Times review of the Polonsky Shakespeare Centers production claimed: “Measure for Measure includes some of the finest moral argumentation in the canon: thrilling back-and-forths between well-matched antagonists with a great deal on the line.”
Measure for Measure opens Wednesday, Apr. 4 and runs through Wednesday, Apr. 11. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee performance on Sunday, Apr. 8 at 2:00 p.m. in the Georgia Southern Center for Art & Theatre Black Box. There will be no show on Monday, Apr. 9.
Student and youth tickets are $6. Faculty, staff and community tickets are $12. All seating is general admission. Group prices are available, contact the box office for information. The house opens at 7 p.m., and we encourage audience members to arrive no later than 7:15 p.m. to ensure good seats. The balcony will serve as overflow seating. Call the Box Office at 912-478-5379 to make reservations.
The box office is open from 1:45 to 3:45 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, as well as 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday for ticket purchases, and reopens at 6:00 p.m. on performance days. Tickets can also be purchased through Marketplace on the GSU web site at http://class.georgiasouthern.edu/cat/season.
Measure for Measure: Written by William Shakespeare and directed by Professor Lisa L. Abbott. Press release by Chatise R. Smith.
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Summer Bucket List For the Young Statesborian
There’s nothing quite like summer in the South; large, sweaty glasses of sweet tea, sunny snoozes by the pool or pitching the perfect cast are just a few ingredients to make one fine summer.
For the young adult hanging around in Statesboro this summer, you’ll want to check out this list in order to take full advantage of your time off. Take some time away from binge-watching your latest Netflix show and see what’s out there!
The Jumping Place Skydiving Center
If you’re seeking your next adrenaline fix, look no further than The Jumping Place. Located on Airport Road in Statesboro, this team of certified professionals — and adventure junkies themselves — offer the ultimate skydiving experience for divers of all skill levels.
Eagle Creek Brewing Company
For all you beer connoisseurs looking to expand your palate, ECBC is your spot. With several brews of all personalities to choose from, you’ll be sure to find your new favorite go-to beer! Tours are available Thursday and Friday from 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Friday evenings from 5:00pm to 10:00pm, and Saturday from 2:00pm to 10:00pm. Come spend your weekend with Eagle Creek!
Free Spirit Pottery & Glass
Free Spirit Pottery & Glass is just the place to hone your artistic abilities. Located in the heart of downtown Statesboro, get your girls together for lunch and spend the afternoon crafting your own piece of pottery! You can book your own personal event here.
Firecracker Fest at Mill Creek Park
Sure to be the most explosive event of the summer, celebrate 4th of July at the Firecracker Fest at Statesboro’s Mill Creek Park. Spend the day kicking back with your own picnic, live music, and a grand finale fireworks show to top it all off.
Karaoke Night at Gnat’s Landing
Food, drinks, and karaoke are arguably one of the world’s best combinations; Gnat’s Landing offers all three on Friday nights. Whether you’re rehearsing for your next open mic night or just want to sing somewhere else other than the shower, you will be sure to have a blast (not to mention the seafood is incredible!)
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