AMERICUS — The Americus Theater and Cultural Authority decided at their meeting Tuesday to implement policies to encourage productions who rent the Rylander Theatre to use the Theatre’s E-tix system instead of coming up with their own unique tickets.

Brooks Nettum, Rylander’s managing director, said the E-tix system is more accountable and precise than each production developing its own ticket system.

E-tix operates by getting a percentage of each ticket sold. The Cultural Authority voted to lower this percentage so acts would be more inclined to use the E-tix system.

Russell Thomas, Authority member, said the Friends of the Rylander, a private entity that raises funds for the Theatre, has seen a dramatic increase in membership over the last few months.

Nettum said that Jeff Williams, an art deco-inspired artist, will be featured Jan. 25, at the Rylander. For over a decade, Williams — an Atlanta based artist— has been inspired by the formal and flamboyant life style of the art deco. His work has been described as a mirror image of his own life. Williams grew up with five older sisters — enhancing his incredible eye for style and design. His images range from brightly colored galas to sultry sophisticated scenes captured in more subdued palettes: nothing like his multi-faceted personality, according to information distributed by the Rylander.

Williams has been painting since his childhood but was formally trained at the Art Institute of Atlanta. After spending some time in Europe, Williams became inspired by the “old masters” — an influence that sparked his interest in using stain washes. This technique added more depth and intensity to his work, reflecting a theme of “la bonne vie” or the good life. Williams has participated in many festivals throughout the United States and now his work is mainly found in galleries or in private collections. He also been featured in magazines such as Florida Designs, Pal Beach and Naples Times of Florida, Jezebel, Airtran Magazine and High Class Living Magazine of New Jersey, according to the Rylander.

Nettum said Williams was born in Americus and has a sister that still lives here. She also said “The Man from Plains,” a documentary about former President Jimmy Carter, will screened at the Theatre February 16.

Suzanne Freeman, Cultural Authority’s treasurer, said Tuesday that the Theatre was in a “positive cash flow” state. Authority chairperson Kent Sole said the City of Americus allocated approximately $119,000 to the Authority for the year 2008.