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Athens Rising p. 7 · Holiday Guide p. 8 · Art Notes p. 13 · Boo Ray p. 18 · Pylon p. 21 · Rusko p. 27

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pub notes Century of Progress In New York after Thanksgiving and desperate to catch a glimpse of the Tech-Georgia game, I asked a young bartender if he would mind changing the channel. He gladly did, but not before asking, “Hey, did you see Herschel play?” He was impressed that I had, and I was struck with his knowledge of perhaps our best player ever. Anybody of age at the time remembers where he or she was when the freshman tailback in his first game ran through and over a University of Tennessee defender named Billy Bates, scoring a touchdown and indelibly announcing that a whole new level of force had upped the ante in offensive football. The game was in Knoxville and not televised, so most of us heard it on the radio, described by the inimitably lilting growl of Larry Munson in full cry.

You had to have been there to have that memory, …further evidence and “being there” is the stuff of the power of great of memories and of good journalism. events to summon My friend and former partthe adventurous who ner Chuck Searcy, as much as anyone I’ve known, has a want to be there in Zelig-like ability to be where the action. the action is. He was in Vietnam during that conflict; he was in the midst of the student agitation on the University of Georgia campus that eventually caused regime-change there; he was in the McGovern campaign in less-than-hospitable south Georgia; he worked in the Carter administration in Washington; he worked for Sen. Wyche Fowler; he was in eastern Europe when communism and the Berlin Wall fell; he heads up a veterans’ program in Hanoi eradicating land mines as that country and the United States continue to heal old wounds.

My friend Bucky Redwine, easing toward his 86th birthday on New Year’s Eve, flew P-51 Mustangs off Iwo Jima, accompanying B-29s on bombing runs over Tokyo. Watching the recent History Channel series on World War II brought home again what Bucky and all the other Athenians like W.C. Causey, Buck Griffin, Jim Barrow and Randolph Holder went through. They and so many others were in those battles we now watch on TV. Locally, there are so many music-scene moments that have defined our culture that almost everybody was there at one or another of them, the further back the rarer: The B-52s’ first show at the house across from the Taco Stand, R.E.M.’s first public performance, at St. Mary’s Church (I think Chuck was there); further back, Gamble Rogers’ appearances at The Last Resort (Brad Herring, out in Bishop, has some of these on CD).

The fire made practically every show at the Georgia Theatre a were-you-there historic moment, and all signs are that there’s still a lot of history to be made in the Theatre.

In a conversation with friends Chris and Claire Foster, of Decatur, it came to light that his father and her father, long before there was any family connection, had both traveled from Georgia to Chicago to be present at the Century of Progress International Exposition in 1933. My wife, Gay, exclaimed that her father, too, with a couple of friends had driven an old Model T Ford from Habersham County to the fair and had run out of money, forcing them to sell the car piecemeal in the attempt to pay their way home, which was finally accomplished by hitchhiking separately.

I piped up that both my parents attended the Exposition, driving up from Georgia with another couple, coming back by way of Niagara Falls, and stopping back through Pittsburgh, where their companion, an attorney, attempted to collect from the City of Pittsburgh money owed for the granite curbing there that was cut from a Greene County quarry.

All four of us had parents at the Century of Progress, whose offspring would marry and become friends, further evidence of the power of great events to summon the adventurous who want to be there in the action. (Gay’s father and mine were also present for the 1929 Yale-Georgia game that inaugurated Sanford Stadium—hers in a pine tree on Ag Hill above the stadium, mine on an overturned water bucket on the sideline).

Our music scene here in Athens has the potential almost every night in any given week for a once-in-a-lifetime show of a new band or established musicians reaching new heights. To be sure you don’t miss the action, all you have to do is keep on showing up, working on your own century of progress.

Pete McCommons editor@flagpole.com

THIS WEEK’S ISSUE: News & Features City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Athens News and Views

A new farmers’ market, two Dopes on water and the return of Paul Broun, Jr.’s Krazy Korner!

Athens Rising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 What’s Up in New Development

Adapting some of Atlanta’s urban development ideas for Athens’ smaller scale.

Arts & Events Miscellany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Out and About Around Athens This week: new bars and new friends.

Art Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

COVER DESIGN by Kelly Ruberto featuring artwork by Lou Kregel

Puppets on a String

Alexei Gural’s shadowbox collages play with scale to delightful effect.

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Music Highs and Lows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 A Decade in Review with Pylon

Vanessa Briscoe Hay and Michael Lachowski give their take on the aughts.

Box It Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 The Season’s Best Box Sets!

Great gift ideas for the music fan in your life.

CITY DOPE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 CITY PAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 CAPITOL IMPACT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 ATHENS RISING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 HOLIDAY GUIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 MISCELLANY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 ART NOTES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MOVIE DOPE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 MOVIE PICK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 THREATS & PROMISES. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 JON GUTHRIE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

BOO RAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 PYLON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 BOX SETS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 RECORD REVIEWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 THE CALENDAR!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 BULLETIN BOARD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 ART AROUND TOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 COMICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 REALITY CHECK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 EVERYDAY PEOPLE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

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This week at Flagpole.COM

23

 Ort reports on a road trip to Philly (will there be cream    

cheese?)

This week, our own Cobbloviate tackles athletics vs. scholarship New blogs from Grub Notes, Film Notebook and Miscellany Take the “End of Decade Athens Music Survey” and tell us your favorite artists, concerts and releases from the aughts!

Talk back to us at the Letter to the Editor link.

CONTACT US:

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Pete McCommons ADVERTISING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Alicia Nickles PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner MANAGING EDITOR Christina Cotter ADVERTISING SALES Anita Aubrey, Melinda Edwards, Jessica Pritchard MUSIC EDITOR Michelle Gilzenrat CITY EDITOR Dave Marr CLASSIFIEDS, DISTRIBUTION & OFFICE MANAGER Paul Karjian AD DESIGNERS Ian Rickert, Kelly Ruberto CARTOONISTS James Allen, Cameron Bogue, Missy Kulik, Chelsea Lea, Jeremy Long, David Mack, Josephine Roach, Matthew Ziemer ADOPT ME Special Agent Cindy Jerrell CONTRIBUTORS Charles-Ryan Barber, Christopher Benton, Rebecca Brantley, Tom Crawford, David Eduardo, Elaine Ely, Tony Floyd, Andre Gallant, Jeff Gore, Gordon Lamb, Bao Le-Huu, David Mack, Matthew Pulver, Alan Sculley, Jordan Stepp, Jeff Tobias, Drew Wheeler, Kevan Williams CIRCULATION Charles Greenleaf, Harper Bridgers, Jimmy Courson, Swen Froemke, Anthony Gentilles WEB DESIGNER Ian Rickert ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Maggie Summers EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Erin Cork MUSIC INTERN Charlie Stafford ADVERTISING INTERNS Melanie Foster, Teresa Tamburello

VOLUME 23 ISSUE NUMBER 50

STREET ADDRESS: 112 S. Foundry St., Athens, GA 30601 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603 EDITORIAL: (706) 549-9523 ADVERTISING: (706) 549-0301 FAX: (706) 548-8981 ADVERTISING: ads@flagpole.com CALENDAR: calendar@flagpole.com COMICS: comics@flagpole.com EDITORIAL: editor@flagpole.com LETTERS: letters@flagpole.com MUSIC: music@flagpole.com NEWS: news@flagpole.com WEB SITE: web@flagpole.com

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Water Matters: In a Dec. 10 conference call hosted by the Georgia Water Coalition, Alliance for Water Efficiency President and CEO Mary Ann Dickinson had some pretty direct advice for Sonny Perdue’s Water Contingency Task Force. Citing per-capita water use reductions in cities like Seattle, Boston and San Antonio of up to 49 percent through longterm commitments to conservation, Dickinson recommends taking similar action in response to Georgia’s water crisis. That means leak detection and abatement, retrofitting for high-use commercial and industrial sectors and expanded residential programs, for starters. These solutions cost money, says Dickinson, but are “a bargain” compared to, say, construction of new reservoirs: one of the focuses of the Task Force’s current plan.

Speaking of Water: The Dope’s predecessor and revered mentor Ben Emanuel, now devoting his considerable energies to the Georgia River Network, is editing— with GRN director April Ingle—a blog called Georgia Water Wire. It’s a frequently updated compendium of informative entries on state water issues, with copious, well-chosen links, and the astute commentary you’d expect from its co-author. Go—run!—to gawaterwire.wordpress.com.

p.m., Friday and Saturday at 195 Paradise Blvd.

Biking Gets Easier, More Fun: The Classic Center Cultural Foundation has commissioned two very cool, artistic bike racks for the sidewalks in front of and behind the Classic Center’s auditorium. The racks on Thomas and Foundry Streets, created by Joshua Jordan and Michael Ely, will be unveiled at a public ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17 at the corner of Thomas and Hancock.

Congratulations to Michael and Josh, and to the Classic Center for filling a glaring need in a creative, productive way.

Roaster Parking Update: The parking lot issue at the Tasting Room at Jittery Joe’s Coffee Roasting Co. remains a developing situation; the Dope recently asked Joe’s

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To Market, to Market: The weekend of Dec. 18 & 19 will mark the opening of the new Sacred Earth Growers Cooperative farmers’ market in the Jittery Joe’s CEO Bob Googe is interviewed by a video crew from parking lot of Flora Hydroponics off CNN in the East Broad Street Tasting Room Dec. 9.

Newton Bridge Road. Co-op manager James Hollis tells the Dope the market President Michael Ripps for some skinny. will feature six produce vendors (all Certified The option of solving the problem—a county Naturally Grown), two organic dairy and two provision against renting “standalone” lots organic meat vendors, as well as hand-crafted for parking—by buying the property isn’t goods by Sacred Earth Artisans. Jittery Joe’s off the table, but “it’s unlikely,” Ripps says.

Coffee, Righteous Juice and Kelly’s Authentic Jittery Joe’s will continue to pursue a solution Jamaican will also be plying their ready-towith the ACC commission, and if that can’t be-consumed wares onsite. The market will be worked out by the end of February, the be closed for Christmas, but will reopen the business will move—leaving what is now a following weekend to begin what will be a unique, thriving business near downtown an year-round schedule. Almost everything sold empty building surrounded by lots that are at Sacred Earth will come from within 100 not for parking. The chances of that happenmiles of Athens, Hollis says, and perhaps more ing, according to Ripps, are “about 50/50.” importantly, one of the market’s key aims will be to keep prices in line with those at local Dave Marr supermarkets. It’s open 2–7

Paul Broun, Jr.’s Krazy Korner Being in bed with Big Business, Congressman Broun knows a thing or two about stimulation. Broun’s latest big idea is to halt the 30 percent completed federal stimulus package in order to cut taxes, mostly on rich folks and corporations. Broun calls it a “REAL stimulus for REAL Americans” [emphasis Broun’s]. I’m not sure what that implies about the 95 percent or so of Americans who have benefited thus far from the president’s stimulus act.

REAL Americans are apparently the super-wealthy and the corporate elite, who stand to benefit spectacularly from Broun’s plan. The bill includes a massive, unprecedented corporate tax break so REAL Americans like Goldman Sachs and Exxon-Mobil can finally catch a break. What’s more, those REAL Americans who are actually foreign-owned corporations get tax breaks, too! Also included is a capital gains tax cut, mostly benefiting the wealthy owners of pricey assets.

But the bill’s fine print reveals its priorities most clearly: Broun’s REAL Americans, the corporations and blue bloods, have their massive tax cuts applied retroactively to Dec. 31, 2008. Meanwhile, the one tax break for the little guy, a curious reduction in FICA/Social Security tax rates, only takes effect “on or after the first Jan. 1 after the date of the enactment of this Act.” That’s putting the “trick” in trickle-down economics.

[Matthew Pulver]

Dave Marr

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city pages Restaurant Looks at Expansion to Help Nurture Food Startups On a recent Thursday morning, Flagpole showed up at Buffalo’s Southwestern Café with a full stomach. Sharon Roberts, owner of the Alps Road restaurant, and her staff hadn’t quite prepped lunch for the day, but she was excited to show off a possible small business boost in a troubled local economy.

Just off the restaurant’s main kitchen is a storage room Roberts wants to convert into a “community kitchen,” an entrepreneurial incubator that culinary start-ups will be able to take advantage of without the hassle of restaurant overhead. Back-up cookware, freezers and extra tables fill a room that, when renovated, could be a prep station stopover for farmers on their way to market or a cooking space for small caterers, all for rent on an as-needed basis.

Shannon McBride, co-owner of the neighboring Rolling Pin culinary shop and an advisor to Roberts on the project, says there are restaurants in town that cater but don’t have kitchens big enough to handle some jobs.

A community kitchen would benefit those who have to “turn down business because they don’t have the facilities.” Entrepreneurs, eager to make and sell their own pasta, granola or canned produce, but lacking certified facilities, could use the kitchen to package their food products. Even university faculty and local food activists are interested in the space, McBride says, as a potential site for a nutrition and food systems education program.

All this depends, of course, on the sudden appearance of a lot of money to build some extra storage and outfit the facility.

From the restaurant’s dining room, any number of doors and hallways lead to storage

rooms, banquet areas and, eventually, into a cavernous hall where a floor-to-ceiling American flag backlines a Christmas tree as tall as the ceiling fans.

“We are always thinking outside the box, trying to survive in this market. We chose this location because of the unique space, and that’s a good thing, but it’s also a big challenge to pay for it,” Roberts says.

“The big back room,” as Buffalo’s calls it, hosts breakfasts for civic groups a few times a week and books live entertainment at night, and Roberts is eager to extend the building’s reach into the community. Buffalo’s, like most businesses, is struggling and innovating these days, and the shared kitchen could provide extra income for the restaurant, as well as a helping hand for small, independent projects that operate outside the usual fixed-asset framework.

Roberts and her business partner and husband, Rick, learned quickly the importance of community connections when they moved to Athens from Dacula in 2004, buying the restaurant in the midst of a remodel. They reached out to the Chamber of Commerce, joined boards of non-profits and involved themselves in small business promotion. While a community kitchen would further entrench the couple in the city, the plan isn’t purely selfless. On top of the extra rent income, Buffalo’s would gain its own catering kitchen.

But if the community kitchen plan works out at Buffalo’s—if Athens can sustain such a food-business incubator—McBride would like to see the project move to another location with “even more space and more services,” and focus on educational components that would help “everyone have access to better quality foods.”

As it stands, with all good intentions, the community kitchen is “still seeking funding,” Roberts says.

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FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

It’s no surprise that the Georgia media has been consumed with the recent scandals erupting at the state Capitol over legislators and their alleged affairs with lobbyists. Any assignment editor with a pulse will tell you that sex is what brings readers and viewers to a story. We may be overlooking a story that is much more important to the state’s future: the continuing failures in our banking system.

In the 18 months since the construction industry collapsed, there have been 29 banks in Georgia shut down by regulators. That accounts for nearly 10 percent of the banks here and is larger than the number of bank failures in every other state. These bank failures are bad news, because they prolong the recession that has destroyed businesses and jobs across the state. With fewer banks to make loans, and with banks that are still operating more reluctant to extend credit, people who want to start or expand a business can’t get the money to do it.

When businesses cannot expand, then jobs aren’t created—which is a major reason why the state’s unemployment rate has exceeded the national jobless rate for the past few years.

Georgia’s bank failures have had a national impact as well. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), which was created during the Great Depression to prevent runs on failing banks, guarantees that you won’t lose the money you deposit in a bank. The FDIC has guaranteed the deposits at each of the 29 banks closed in Georgia at a combined cost to the agency’s insurance fund of close to $5.4 billion. The Georgia losses were a big factor in the FDIC’s announcement in November that its insurance fund has now gone into the red, with a negative balance of $8.2 billion as of the end of the third quarter. That disclosure should scare the pants off anyone who’s concerned about the current condition of the economy.

Oddly enough, Georgia lawmakers don’t seem to be concerned about the matter at all. At a budget hearing for the state banking department a few weeks ago, legislators were told that the number of bank examiner positions at the department had been reduced last year because of budget shortfalls and would be reduced again because of more budget cuts that are planned. The lawmakers asked a few desultory questions and moved on to discuss other matters. Not one of them suggested that perhaps the state should hire more examiners to help prevent future bank failures, in spite of the critical situation of our banks.

Rob Braswell, commissioner of the state banking department, said he isn’t sure that having more bank examiners on the payroll would have made much of a difference anyway. State examiners often spotted problem areas with banks that had made too many real estate or construction loans, but their advice to the banks’ executives was frequently ignored, Braswell said.

“It’s like a police officer telling drivers the streets are slick and they should slow down—if they continue to go 55 miles an hour, they can still go into the ditch,” he said. “We don’t manage the banks. We can make the recommendation, but they don’t have to follow it.”

Back when the housing boom was in full force and banks were making money hand over fist, it was hard to get anyone to pay attention to the problems that might lie ahead, Braswell said.

“It seemed to many this market was going to continue for months down the road,” he noted.

Every boom comes to an end, which is what happened to the construction industry in Georgia. The crisis in our banking system has not yet ended—and there’s no indication that it will any time soon.

Tom Crawford

athens rising What’s Up in New Development extend and connect the urban fabric, making the whole city more economically healthy.

Technology Square, across Atlanta’s downtown connector from the main Georgia Tech campus, is an example of a major university using its urban edge as an asset. Reclaiming Midtown parking lots, Tech built a district of mixed-use buildings with offices, academic space and ample room for research and startup businesses that benefit from close proximity to the school. The bridge between the campus and the square functions as a green space, seamlessly connecting the two areas and making the highway below nearly unnoticeable.

Could such a project work here and help to bring in the types of jobs and research Athens has long coveted? The concept of Highway 316 as a biomedical research corridor has always seemed a bit strange to me, given the lack of anything valuable in the middle of it.

If businesses are going to locate anywhere, wouldn’t they rather be near one university than 45 minutes from two? UGA’s surface lots along Thomas and Oconee Streets might be better used for just such a mixed-use district, providing a destination for such businesses.

One last project worth considering is the Midtown Mile, part of a greater scheme to redevelop the entirety of the Peachtree corridor.

The Midtown Mile aims to revive Midtown by encouraging highdensity development with plenty of retail along one specific stretch of Peachtree, creating a district to Could some of UGA’s surface parking lots—like this one in the rival Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. shadow of North Campus (and the North Campus Parking Deck)— They’ve been successful so far, with eventually be the sites of new research facilities? many new towers built along the stretch, and existing suburban-style The Athens area has at least one rail-trail office towers planning to renovate their bases project in the works already, but there hasn’t to include retail structures. The concentration been much discussion as to what it will do of high-end retail that the area aims for will for surrounding areas, such as Oak Street or make the street a regional destination, bringWinterville Road. One site of particular intering tourism and businesses in. Streetcars may est in this era of water issues is the Hanson soon come down Peachtree Street to serve Quarry on Winterville Road, adjacent to the these new businesses and residents, possibly proposed rail-trail. The Vulcan Quarry in funded by stimulus money, along with new, Atlanta is being turned into a large reservoir more urban streetscapes. surrounded by a park. When our own quarry Transit may be what really makes this is tapped out, which may happen in the next corridor take off. Trains and streetcars aren’t decade or so, it could serve a similar purpose. just for moving people; they serve as engines At around 40 acres of surface area and several and managing tools for growth. This has hundred feet deep, it could come very close worked in places like Portland and Charlotte, to Bear Creek Reservoir’s capacity, sustaining and Atlanta is headed that way, between the Athens’ growth for years to come.

Peachtree Streetcar and the Beltline. Actively A Beltline-style system of trails with open incentivizing and encouraging high density space and redevelopment might also be sucalong one specific corridor might work well cessful in the burgeoning Railroad Arts for Athens, taking pressure off surroundDistrict, north of the CSX line which parallels ing neighborhoods and helping to give us a Boulevard. A rail-with-trail tying together more effective transportation system as well. the proposed Pulaski Creek Park, the North How about Broad Street? It could connect Oconee Greenway, and potential neighbordowntown with Beechwood and the Atlanta hood parks in Boulevard and Buena Vista Highway’s retail. would work well and help to address concerns The next time you’re in Atlanta, I encourabout neighborhood parks being scattershot. age you to check some of these places out It would also help connect the Railroad Arts and get a feel for what works and doesn’t.

District’s network of artists, artisans and Obviously the scales of development in the big small businesses to one another and the rest city aren’t appropriate here, but the concepts of town. If you took the trail a bit farther, behind them are sound and could be applied it could also tie other, more suburban neighon a local basis. Integration of what are typiborhoods together, as far as Homewood and cally considered disparate efforts is the key beyond. There are plenty of vacant parcels to these projects, and with the next round and buildings back there, which might become of SPLOST projects being picked, we need to greater assets to Athens (and generate greater think about how every government project can tax revenue) if they were part of a more serve multiple functions for the community. distinct place. These trails aren’t just specialinterest projects: they have the potential to Kevan Williams athensrising@flagpole.com Atlanta is an interesting place, and for all its issues with suburbanism and sprawl, there are some unique urban projects going on there. I’d like to highlight some of those projects this week, and look at how the lessons learned in Atlanta might help us succeed here in Athens. Although open space is a common element between them, these ideas aren’t just parks for parks’ sake. It is the integration of open space, infrastructure, transportation and the ability to spur economic growth that makes them so successful.

Possibly the most exciting thing going on in Atlanta is the Beltline. This concept was proposed in a thesis by Georgia Tech student Ryan Gravel and has since then taken off, spawning millions of dollars in public and private investment. Briefly, a loop of railroads and blighted industrial land around Atlanta’s urban core will be turned into a combination of parks, bike-ped trails, transit veins and mixed-use neighborhoods.

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Holiday Guide Flagpole’s Businesses Extend Season’s Greetings and Welcome Art — Retail & Galleries

Concerts & Events

Good Dirt Clay Studio and Gallery

OCAF Art Shoppe

510 N. Thomas St., 706-355-3161 Good Dirt is a spacious, well-equipped facility for people of all ages and abilities to explore clay and other media. Our schedule of winter classes (starting early January) in pottery, sculpture and tile is at www. gooddirt.net. Gift certificates for classes and workshops are available for holiday shopping. The Gallery @ Good Dirt will feature pottery by local artists through Dec. 23.

34 School St., Watkinsville, 706-769-4565 Stop by the Oconee Cultural Arst Foundation Art Shoppe Tuesdays– Saturdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m. through Dec. 23 for your last-minute shopping needs from 45 of the region’s finest artists. Paintings, jewelry,

398 Foundry St., 706-546-0950 “bob” isn’t merely a prefix to “sled,” it’s the only name you need to know for up-market styling products and holiday gift certificates! Travel-sized products from Pureology are perfect for stuffing stockings, and even the most discerning ladies on your list will be delighted to find a ghd styler under the tree. Gift certificates are available in any amount, so swing by early for the most thoughtful presents your loved ones are likely to receive!

293 Hoyt St., 706-613-3623 The halls, walls and cases of the Lyndon House Arts Center’s Gallery Shop are decked out with seasonal delights of all kinds. Handcrafted wreaths, ornaments, candles, cards, soap, scarves, purses, jewelry, stained and fused glass, wood containers, pottery, paintings, weavings and more are all created by local artists. You are sure to find something to please everyone on your holiday shopping list. Open: Tuesday–Saturday 12–5 p.m. or by appointment. Free parking.

DRee & Co

497 Prince Ave., 706-548-0770 Enjoy all things beautiful and relaxing this holiday season. Choose from the wonderful Aveda products for stocking stuffers, or easy to give gift cards in any dollar amount to use towards a relaxing spa treatment or for a new look for 2010. Extended holiday hours, open Sunday, Dec. 20 through Christmas Eve. Online booking available at www.dreeandco.com. New menu and packages February 2010. Become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Bars & Clubs 40 Watt Club

285 W. Washington St., 706-549-7871 This holiday season, there’s nothing cooler to get for the music fan in your life than a 40 Watt Club T-shirt or tickets to an upcoming show—including the Drive-By Truckers’ homecoming stand from Jan. 14–16 or Jonathan Richman’s return to Athens on Feb. 6. And don’t forget to come out for the 40 Watt Xmas Party on Friday, Dec. 18 with Lona. Santa Clay might even let you sit on his lap! www.40watt.com

Foundry Park Inn & Spa

295 E. Dougherty St., 706-549-7020 Looking for the perfect gift? Whether you want to treat someone to our award-winning Spa, a night on the town listening to the best live music in Athens at the Melting Point, spending the night in our hotel, or dining at the Hoyt House Restaurant, a Foundry Park Inn & Spa gift card is the perfect gift and good at any outlet. Don’t forget to join us for our Mardi Gras New Year’s Eve!

Alibi Saloon

50 Gaines School Rd., 706-549-1010 Marilyn and Rob invite you to kick off the Holidays at the Alibi Lounge (aka Marilyn’s Joint). We love our Troops so help us support The Afghan Soldier Project. We’re doing Toys for Tots too! Visit facebook.com/alibibar for details. Come by Dec. 11 for live music with Albatross, Dec. 12 for Karaoke, Dec. 18 to hear Forward Motion, Dec. 19. for our righteous Christmas Party (Say Merry Christmas!), and New Years Eve for a party with Grains of Sand!

256 E. Clayton St., 706-549-0166 Happy Holidays! This year let Allgood Lounge host your holiday party. With two floors, three full bars, pool tables, huge-screen TVs, build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, expanded wine list, 150+ craft, imported and domestic beers, 20 select beers on draught, and a large, heated patio, Allgood is ready to host any event. So let us deck your liver with loads of cocktails this holiday season. Happy Holidays and may all your hangovers be mild.

Office Lounge

2455 Jefferson Rd., 706-546-0840 Merry Christmas from the Office, Your Friendly Neighborhood Bar! This Christmas give back by attending “Strung Out Like the Lights at Christmastime” Friday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. Your $5 cover is donated to the Empty Stocking Fund, helping those in need this Christmas.

Dodd Ferrelle is joined by Bloodkin (acoustic), Workhorses of the Entertainment and Recreation Industry, Curley Maple, Clay Leverett and Burning Angels. Come by Saturday, Dec. 19 at 5:30 p.m. for our Christmas Party with Shortbus Allstars!

Tasty World

312 E. Broad St., 706-543-0797 Santa told me that people that don’t rock out for the holiday are getting switches and coal. He did. He really, really did. Or maybe that was Satan?

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160 Tracy St., Unit 1, 706-546-1061 Jump start your New Year’s Resolutions with us! Starting Jan. 17, Robin Grundstein, Registered Dietician and Amanda Martin, Certified Pilates instructor will lead you through 4 weeks of healthy eating and exercising right. Learn more about the program at our Open House, Jan. 10 from 3–4 p.m. B A L A N C E specializes in Pilates classes for Beginner, Pre- & Postnatal and Osteoporotic clientele. All mat classes are just $10, and your second mat class is FREE! www. balancepilatesathens.com

bob (SALON)

Gallery Shop at Lyndon House Arts Center

Allgood Lounge

b a l a n c e — a pilates + wellness studio

The HardCore Gym

scarves, ceramics, hand-made books, photography, fiber art, seasonal gifts and more, all in one location! Free parking. For more information, visit www.ocaf.com.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church

498 Prince Ave., 706-543-1294 Blue Christmas—This worship service is offered to bring comfort to those struggling to find joy in the holiday season. The Blue Christmas service is an ecumenical outreach open to all in the community. The liturgy includes quiet music, prayers, readings and a reflection of consolation, hope and comfort. More about this tradition can be found on the Internet by searching “Blue Christmas Liturgy” or “Longest Night Worship.” Sunday, Dec. 20.

Health & Beauty Advanced Massage Therapies

1363 S. Milledge Ave., 706-369-7595 Peggy Gugino offers a cozy winter time treat: Hot Stone Massage.

The heat from the stones deeply penetrates the muscles, increasing the blood flow to the tissues, thus accelerating the healing process.

Also, it feels wonderful! We have Gift Certificates and offer many styles of bodywork: Hot Stone, CranioSacral Therapy, Deep Tissue and more. Bob Klein, Amy Bramblett, Peggy Gugino, and Courtney DiCarlo wish you a joyous Holiday Season! For more information, visit www.

AdvancedMassageTherapies.com

240 Collins Industrial Blvd., 706-614-3399 The HardCore Gym offers extended hours and more classes in its brand-new facility. We specialize in fitness and Mixed Martial Arts for everyBODY. Give someone you love or, more importantly, yourself the gift of fitness and self-defense this holiday season. Train with World Class instructors in the number-one gym in Georgia. Whether you want fun, fitness, self-defense or competition, The HardCore Gym has it all under one roof. See www.thehardcoregym.com for more info.

Lock Nest Hair Studio

156A College Ave., 706-546-7288 Lock Nest would like to thank everyone for the past 17 years! We are located in the heart of downtown on College Ave. Let us transform your look with our “recession-friendly” prices! Gift certificates available. 20% off Biolage and American Crew products. We wish everyone peace, love and happiness this holiday season!

Rocket Salon

163 N. Jackson St., 706-353-0500 ‘Tis the season to celebrate with family and friends. Pamper and indulge yourself with a cut and color to spiff up before your parties begin. Rocket offers a variety of hair services in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Our fanatical fan-base consists of hipsters, rockers, professionals, students and ladies who lunch. Everyone is welcome. Pop in for a cup of hot chocolate and a complimentary consultation. Gift certificates available this holiday season.

VeinSolutions

195 King Ave., 706-353-2727 The Medi-spa at VeinSolutions offers cosmetic treatments such as microdermabrasion, peels, cutera laser skin rejuvenation and hair removal. We also carry Jane Iredale make-up, Results Rx and Obaji skincare products. VeinSolutuons, a division of Athens Vascular

specialists, provides comprehensive vein care with over 55 years of combined surgical experience, sclerotherapy and minimally invasive outpatient surgery. Call today for your free consultation with our board-certified vascular physicians and licensed esthetician. www. veinsolutions.com

Buffalo’s Southwest Cafe

Recreation

196 Alps Rd., 706-354-6655 We invite you to Buffalo’s for the holidays! Party in one of our private rooms, let us deliver the party to you OR gift cards are on sale now! For every $100 get $20 in Buffalo Bucks for you! Our annual White Buffalo Christmas will be held on Dec. 22 at 6 p.m. Select a buffalo tag, wrap the gift, and make a child’s Christmas special. Visit with Santa one and all!

BikeAthens

Clocked!

P.O. Box 344, 706-372-9529 Happy holidays from BikeAthens! Holiday traffic got you down? Try walking, biking or taking public transit! Give a cyclist a unique gift of Jittery Joe’s “Alternative Fuel” coffee or a donation in their name to our Holiday Bikes for Kids project! BikeAthens advocates for improved transportation choices in Athens. Find out more at www.bikeathens.com!

Ciné

234 W. Hancock Ave., 706-353-3343 CINÉ—downtown’s only arthouse cinema screens the latest independent and international films, documentaries, festival discoveries and classic movies. More than a movie theater, Ciné is a modern arts center, featuring an exhibit gallery by local visual artists and the versatile CinéLab space—great for events, parties and live performances. Ciné offers a variety of cocktails and treats, gift certificates and annual memberships, plus a Dinner + Movie combo package with neighboring restaurant, The National. More info and showtimes at www.athenscine.com.

The Classic Center Theatre

300 N. Thomas St., 706-357-4444 Give the gift of entertainment this holiday season with show tickets and gift certificates to The Classic Center Theatre. Upcoming shows include “The Wedding Singer” on Jan. 27, Shelly Garrett’s “Beauty Shop” on Feb. 27 and Michael Flatley’s “Lord of the Dance” on Mar. 2.

To purchase tickets or gift certificates, please call 706-357-4444, visit www.ClassicCenter.com for the full season calendar or stop by the box office in downtown Athens.

Restaurants A Tavola

237 Prince Ave., 706-549-7520 Serving authentic traditional and innovative Italian dishes and pizzas. We will be closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day and open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Please make your reservations now for our special New Year’s Eve dinner. Gift certificates available.

Through December when you purchase a $50 or more gift card you receive an extra $10 on the card. Happy Holidays!

Allen’s Bar & Grill

810 Hawthorne Ave., 706-353-6244 Celebrate this holiday season at the oldest bar and grill in Athens.

Since 1955, Allen’s has been a place for people of all walks of life to meet and have a good time. So, leave your cares at the door and come party with us this New Year’s Eve with The Grunttones! From our gang to yours… Have a safe and happy holiday! Visit www.allensbarandgrill. com.

Agua Linda Mexican Restaurant

1376 Prince Ave., 706-543-1500 2080 Timothy Rd., 706-543-0154 The holidays are just around the corner. Spend some time off with friends and family and enjoy the Taste of Mexico at your local Agua Linda Restaurant. Agua Linda is here to cater all your holiday needs from large groups to small groups so please call us and enjoy the holidays together. Happy holidays!

Barberitos Southwestern Grill

1860 Barnett Shoals Rd., 706-549-9954 1739 S. Lumpkin St., 706-548-1866 1880 Epps Bridge Pkwy., 706-354-0300 259 E. Clayton St., 706-549-9008 Bring the family to Barberitos Downtown, Eastside, Five Points, Epps Bridge or Watkinsville to refuel while holiday shopping. While you’re in, pick up the perfect stocking-stuffer: a Barberitos gift certificate. Also, don’t forget that Barberitos caters for corporate events and parties. Let Barberitos turn your holiday party into a fiesta! Go to www.barberitos.com to find the location nearest you. Happy Holidays from Pepe and your friends at Barberitos!

Big City Bread Cafe

393 N Finley St., 706-353-0029 Come in out of the cold, there’s plenty of room with our new expanded dining room! We are offering a wide variety of delicious holiday treats, order early for your family get-togethers. We offer catering services and full service dinner with beer and wine Mon.–Sat. from 5:30 -9:30 p.m. We will be open Christmas Eve 7 a.m.–3 p.m. and closed Christmas day.

259 W. Washington St., 706-548-9175 Bring your family and friends in for the best burger in town! Big tables and booths that can accommodate 8-15 people, or reserve our side room for parties up to 30. December-only specials: buy a $14 t-shirt get a second free—$100 book of gift certificates only $75—Monday nights, beer is 2 for price of 1—Tuesday nights, kids under 12 eat free— Sunday nights, Regular Burger, fries, soft drink $4.99!

Five Star Day Café

229 E. Broad St., 706-543-8552 2230 Barnett Shoals Rd., 706-613-1001 Bring home your favorite Five Star dish for the holidays. From collards and black-eyed peas for your New Year’s Day, to sweet potatoes, mac and cheese and squash casserole to round out your holiday dinner—we have it all. We are available for Holiday Parties and Catering.

We Are Open New Year’s Day! Gift certificates available for friends and family.

second to none, with specials provided by the mixologists daily. The restaurant has won the reader’s choice award (ABH) for “best sushi” two years in a row! The steaks at Shokitini are phenomenal, using only the best meats. Private karaoke rooms are ideal for Christmas parties and birthdays. Gift certificates also available. Closed on Christmas. www.shokitini.com

Taste of India

131 E. Broad St., 706-559-0000 Athens’ only Indian fine-dining cuisine, located across from the Arch. Head chef Ashok Kumar, with over 20 years of experience, offers a daily lunch buffet and an à la carte menu. We offer a richly varied menu of fresh, natural ingredients, wholesome sauces and flavorful spices. All of our food is natural and freshly prepared daily on premises with no additives or preservatives. We will be open on Christmas Day (reservations suggested). Happy Holidays!!

Transmetropolitan

145 E. Clayton St., 706-613-8773 1550 Oglethorpe Ave., 706-549-5112 Visit us throughout the holidays for daily lasagna specials, the Sunday Bloody Mary bar, pizzas, pastas, panini and salads. Try our Chicken Parmesan over linguini with pomodoro, it’s Blitzen’s favorite!

Happy Hour cheer begins each day at 4 p.m. Don’t be late, Comet and Vixen never are! Half-off bottles of wine every Wednesday upstairs at the downtown bar. On the nights Jessica the bartender is working, expect to see Cupid and Donner. They love her!

Gnat’s Landing

White Tiger Gourmet Food & Chocolates

The Grit

Willy’s Mexicana Grill

Harry Bissett’s

Retail

1080 Baxter St., 706-850-5858 Gnat’s Landing, located at 1080 Baxter St., GNAT-hens. Born in St. Simons, our unique Coastal Cuisine menu is a fit for anyone’s taste buds and our Beach Casual Food and Attitude is a nice stress reliever during the silly season. Reserve our back room for a private party or have us cater to your needs. Don’t forget, gift cards make a lovely gift! Stop by for details. We will be closed 12/24, 12/25 & 1/1. www. gnatslanding.net

199 Prince Ave., 706-543-6592 Out and about this holiday season? Gonna shop ‘til you drop?

Drop by The Grit, the toast of Athenian vegetarian cuisine. Located on Prince Avenue since 1991, The Grit offers delectable, down-home favorites, international specialties, and fabulous home-made desserts.

We’ve got something for everyone—even carnivores love us! Still shopping? Our Grit Cookbook is a perennial stocking stuffing favorite, along with gift certificates, t-shirts, Jittery Joe’s Grit Blend coffee, and Grit Granola. Now serving breakfast!

1155 Mitchell Bridge Rd., 706-552-1193 279 E. Broad St., 706-353-7065 Harry Bissett’s, celebrating Athens since 1986 with two great locations. This holiday season we are offering 10% off all gift card purchases over $100. Book your New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Brunch reservations now! Become a fan on Facebook for updates on upcoming events. We will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Happy Holidays!

Inoko Express, Atlanta Highway

3190 Atlanta Hwy., 706-425-8828 With gift certificates and special stocking-stuffers available, you can grab dinner and check someone off your list in as little as five minutes. Holiday shopping can leave you with so little time. Just give us a call while you’re out shopping, and we can have dinner ready to pick up on your way home. Experience the taste that Athens has loved since 1992 on the go.

The Original La Fiesta

995 Hawthorne Ave., 706-548-4261 Come to the original La Fiesta for authentic Mexican food cooked fresh daily. Stop by Mondays for the best deal in town—hardshell tacos for JUST $1! Daily food and drink specials. The Westside is the BEST side! Servings Athens since 1983. Happy Holidays!

Red Eye Coffee

at The Bottleworks, 297 Prince Ave., 706-369-6850 Hey, Athens! Come check out Red Eye, now celebrating our first full year in town. We specialize in the freshest single-cup brewed coffee, traditional espresso drinks, the finest loose-leaf tea in town and locally made gelato. Located in The Bottleworks on Prince, Red Eye features Counter Culture Coffee, which is harvested from around the world with special attention paid to both quality coffee and quality of life for producers at origin. Get excited about coffee again!

Shokitini

251 W. Clayton St., 706-353-7933 With a fun and vibrant atmosphere, Shokitini provides a perfect place to be “seen” downtown. The martini and sake selections are

217 Hiawasee Ave., 706-353-6847 This little restaurant does BBQ like nobody’s business, with Ken at the helm of the kitchen and Amanda keeping delicious homemade chocolates stocked. They provide friendly, down-home atmosphere and a full menu that includes many vegetarian and vegan options. Order gift boxes of chocolate in advance or just stop by. Live music, monthly art shows, pottery, jewelry and other art for sale. Gift certificates and catering available. Wishing you a purrfect White Tiger holiday!

196 Alps Rd., 706-548-1920 Willy’s Mexicana Grill offers a host of Fresh-Mex menu items made from scratch with only the freshest ingredients. Make someone happy on your gift list this year with a Willy’s gift card—perfect for college students, teachers and co-workers. Having a holiday party? Invite Willy’s to bring the great taste and service from our restaurant to your gathering—call 706-548-1920 to order now! Online ordering available for gift cards and catering at www.willys.com.

Athens Downtown Development Authority

220 College Ave., Ste. 400, 706-353-1421 Downtown Athens encourages you to SHOP LOCAL. Join us under the twinkling lights for unique shopping, delicious dining and holiday nights out on the town! Downtown Athens’ locally owned businesses welcome casual shoppers and provide a break from dreaded mall mayhem. Can’t decide? A Downtown Athens Gift Certificate always fits— accepted at over 60 of your favorite downtown businesses, they’re sure to please! Visit DowntownAthensGa.com for business listings and to purchase gift certificates, mugs, coffee and more!

Aurum Studios

125 E. Clayton St., 706-546-8826 Voted Best Jewelry and Best Art Gallery, Aurum has a fabulous selection of platinum, gold and silver jewelry, diamonds, pearls, stunning color and cool beads. Original designs, custom work and repairs are available from six in-house goldsmiths. The Aurum gallery of American crafts features pottery, glass, wood and paintings by talented regional artists—even Christmas ornaments! Let Aurum’s friendly staff help you find all the gifts you need—layaway, all charge cards and free gift-wrapping.

Cofer’s Home & Garden Showplace

1145 Mitchell Bridge Rd., 706-353-1519 Cofer’s has lighted covered greenhouses for finding that perfect Christmas tree. We carry only premium grown Fraser Firs from North Carolina. Sizes from 3 ft. to 10 ft. Ask about our Christmas tree delivery service for Clarke and Oconee counties! We can also pick up your tree after the holidays and recycle it for a small fee. Gifts for the gardener—Felco Swiss pruners, bird supplies and gift certificates.

The Cigar Shop

1720 Epps Bridge Pkwy., 706-850-5555 Athens’ only upscale cigar lounge is Now Open! We have a selection of over 250 types of cigars, plus several kinds of pipe tobaccos.

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HOLIDAY GUIDE

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cigar connoisseur. This is a great place, and we hope you will come and experience it for yourself! We are located in front of the Kroger Shopping Center on Epps Bridge Parkway.

Five Points Bottle Shop

1655 S. Lumpkin St., 706-543-6989 3685 Atlanta Hwy., 706-316-2337 This holiday season Five Points Bottle is stocking the shelves so you can stuff your stocking! Beer and liquor gift sets make a wonderful present and are available in all shapes and sizes. Come browse our huge inventory of seasonal brews just waiting for that beer-lover on your list. We’ll help you select the ideal wine to give your favorite connoisseur. Did we mention everyone’s favorite stocking stuffer? Minibottles! Remember, No Fake IDs, No Crybabies!

Flora Hydroponics

195 Paradise Blvd., 706-353-2223 Looking for a great gift for an avid gardener? We got it! Come visit Athens’ leading indoor gardening supplier. We have helped growers worldwide since 2006. As the temperature cools down, we offer all of the items you need to bring your garden indoors. Whether it’s lights, fertilizers or gardening accessories you are looking for, Flora has the items you need! We offer unique gift items such as Grobals, Earth Boxes and Hobby Greenhouses! Happy Holidays!

Half-Moon Outfitters

1225 S. Milledge Ave., 706-548-7225 Half-Moon Outfitters offers great customer service for getting you ready for your next adventure. Half-Moon features quality gear for adventure and travel by Patagonia, The North Face, Arc’Teryx, Mountain Hardwear, Petzl and more. Open daily for your shopping convenience.

Gift certificates available.

Helix

146 E. Clayton St., 706-354-8631 Have a peaceful, enjoyable shopping experience at Helix this holiday season! Choose from our large selection of stylish and artistic jewelry, housewares and stationery. For your child, fresh playful prints in clothes from Zutano and quality wooden toys. Deck your halls with original work by local artists. Bill Campbell’s pottery will thrill anyone on your list! With complimentary gift wrap and friendly service, Helix has everything you need to fill your holidays with cheer!

J’s Bottle Shop

1452 Prince Ave., 706-353-8881 J’s Bottle Shop and Cheer’s Package have the best prices and the best selection on holiday gift sets from your favorites like Crown Royal, Jack Daniel’s, Dewar’s, Glenmorangie, Jameson, Bailey’s, Kahlua and more! Champagnes, fine wines, single-malt Scotches, ultra premium vodkas, imported cigars, craft microbrews and exotic liqueurs bring warmth and cheer to the season. Make your gift sets special with free gift wrapping! Two convenient locations, the same great prices!

Junkman’s Daughter’s Brother

458 E. Clayton St., 706-543-4454 ‘Twas the day before Xmas/ the shoppers were manic/ Junkman’s is open, no need to panic/ We have earrings and lanterns/ jigsaws and t-shirts/ key chains and vases, handbags and short skirts/ comics and stickers, incense and bangles/ cool shoes and jackets, stuffed toys and candles/ Everything you would need for your special elf/ We make it so easy, there’s time to shop for yourself.

The Loft Art Supply

bag of cinders / Instead come see Athens’ lowest priced Fenders / We’ll help you find the right gifts so Christmas won’t be blue / Even Santa shops here, shouldn’t you, too?

year with a windchime! We have a wide selection of yard art, gardener gifts, natural body care products, locally grown herbs and gift certificates! Come see our winter wonderland! www.thymeafterthyme.com

Music Go Round

Video Link

Native America Gallery

World of Futons

P.S. Too

Services

www.musicgoroundlilburn.com, 706-931-9190 The best place to find cool used gear is Music Go Round. Located just a short drive from Athens, it is a destination store worth the road trip. Our huge inventory of guitars, amps, effects, drums, pro sound, brass, woodwinds, strings and keyboards changes because we buy hundreds more every week. Seriously, you will not believe how much gear we buy and sell. Come visit soon and be sure to bring trades!!

195 E. Clayton St., 706-543-8425 Native America Gallery is all decked out for the holidays and we have something special for everyone on your list. An amazing selection of sterling-silver jewelry embellished with turquoise, opal, gemstones or real flowers! Leather journals, zuni fetish carvings, felted wood purses from Nepal and fabulous scarves! Holiday Ornaments and Nativities—Complimentary gift wrap, hot cider and treats. Open Daily ‘til 8 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday nights! Native America Gallery– “Where You’re One of the Tribe!”

1055 Gaines School Rd., 706-552-2345 Are you looking for the perfect gift for that special someone this holiday? At P.S. Too you’ll find women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories in all of the latest styles. Not only will each purchase support a local business, all of the proceeds from P.S. Too sales directly help survivors of domestic violence. P.S. Too is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. We’re located in the Eastside Omni Club shopping center.

R. Wood Studio Ceramics

450 Georgia Dr., 706-613-8525 Shop Local! Give Handmade! R. Wood Studio Ceramics has been hand-crafting pottery for 20 years. We are located in a rustic warehouse, just east of downtown. Our pieces make great gifts and share a slice of Athens beauty. Our gift suggestions start with our large everything bowl or you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift in our oneof-a-kind section filled with thousands of handmade pieces. www. rwoodstudio.com

Sexy Suz Adult Emporium

50 Gaines School Rd., 706-850-6919 Sexy gifts for Christmas. Sexy Suz–making love better. Come check out our new expanded lingerie department featuring the finest lingerie selection in Athens (including brand new holiday lingerie), plus our new sexy shoe department. Whether it’s naughty stocking stuffers, massage oils, Kama Sutra, adult toys and novelties, games or our adult DVD selection, every adult has something to spice up their holiday gift giving. If it’s not sexy, we don’t carry it!

Smoker’s Den

289 College Ave., 706-546-8787 Our downtown store, The Smoker’s Den, is Athens’ first hookah lounge. Our store at 1086 Baxter St., Modern Age, has been Athens’ most unique gift shop, as well as the area’s premiere tobacconist. Our Humidor stocks dozens of cigar labels kept fresh for cigar enthusiasts.

Incense, Hookahs and Hookah accessories, Zippo Lighters, E Health Cigarettes and vaporizers. See us for all your smoking needs.

Southern Waterbeds & Futons

2026 S. Milledge Ave., 706-543-2288 VIDEO LINK is the LAST of the locally owned, non-chain independent video stores. ALL titles are for sale or rental. VIDEO LINK carries ALL the new releases and TV shows, but specializes in hard to find classics, foreign and cult movies. We heavily discount. VIDEO LINK is located 1 mile southeast of 5 Points in the Shoppes of South of Athens (across from Sons of Italy). We will be closed Christmas but open New Year’s Day.

2041 W. Broad St., 706-353-1218 Seasons Greetings from World of Futons near Red Lobster on Broad Street. See us for the best deals on living room and bedroom furniture.

We have locally made products in our store along with a variety of other items. We carry platform beds, case goods, mirrors, the largest selection of futon furniture and more at the best prices in town.

Established in 1984—we knew futons before futons were cool!! Happy holidays and happy futoning—come see us!

13 Roses Tattoo

598 W. Hancock Ave., 706-354-6613 Your friends and family will be impressed with your discriminating taste and gift that will last a lifetime—a New Tattoo! 13 Roses is Atlanta & Athens’ premier Tattoo Studio. Gift Certificates available and are valid at both Atlanta and Athens locations for all of 13 Roses’ award-winning Tattoo Artists. If you can imagine it, we can do it! Open ‘til 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve for late shopping elves! www.13RosesTattoo.com.

AAA Airport Express

www.aaaairportexpress.com, 800-354-7874 AAA Airport Express departs Athens and Atlanta 12 times daily. Our fare is $45 each way per person. There is a $5 off coupon in Flagpole and other publications in Athens. Please visit our website at www. aaaairportexpress.com or call us at 800-354-7874 or 404-767-2000 for more information and to make reservations. We can make your holiday travels merrier this year!

American Classic Tattoo and Body Piercing

1035 Baxter St., 706-543-7628 We offer the gift that always fits. American Classic Tattoos and Body Piercing offering fine custom and classic tattoos to suit your needs.

We offer gift certificates and a fine selection of body jewelry. Open Mondays-Saturdays, noon ‘til 10 p.m. www.americanclassictattoo.net

Backyard to Nature

4330 Highway 72 West, Colbert, 706-788-0559 We are a landscape and hardscape materials producer and distributor. Unlike plants, hardscape projects can be installed year round.

Smart gardeners get a jump on spring by putting in their pathways, patios, walls, borders, soil, soil amendments and mulch in the winter.

Boulders in the landscape add interest without the maintenance of watering and fertilizer. Beat the rush and order now. Through February, buy $50 in gift certificates and get another $10 free. We deliver anywhere. www.backyard2nature.com

1035 Baxter St., 706-548-5334 Come see us at out new bigger and better store! This is the time of year to purchase an easel for yourself or that special person on your shopping list. If you have the inspiration to make a special handmade gift or greeting yourself, we also have a large selection of imported papers, color, brushes and tools to create a unique gift. Books and gift sets are of course available at special holiday pricing.

3775 Atlanta Hwy., 706-543-4323 The original wood frame waterbeds started the sleep revolution in the ‘60s and are still popular today. You’ll rest in a semi-weightless state without pressure points, in soothing heated comfort. Great for all ages. We have a large showroom with waterbeds, futons, bunk beds, platform beds, lofts and matching furniture. We have plenty of UGA room décor and gifts, too. Same local owner since 1975. Open six days, 10 a.m. ‘til 7 p.m. Closed Sunday. Across from Georgia Square Mall. www.southernwaterbeds.com

Masada Leather and Outdoor

Skate Shop of Athens

Project Safe, Inc.

Musician’s Warehouse Showcase

Thyme After Thyme, Inc.

University of Georgia Independent and Distance Learning

238 E. Clayton St., 706-546-5014 In February 1975, a small leather shop was founded in downtown Athens with the idea of creating quality, hand-crafted leather work at a reasonable price. Now, over three decades later, MASADA has built a reputation as the state’s leader in fine leather accessories, comfort and hiking footwear, and outdoor apparel. We sincerely hope that you’ll visit our unique shop while you’re here and enjoy the rustic charm and Old-World atmosphere of an Athens landmark.

150 Crane Dr., 706-548-7233 Open every day until Christmas! Everything’s on sale; we don’t know where to begin! / Guitars, amps, drums, keyboards—you’re sure to win / The friendliest staff and no Grinches around / Now with one super location, close to the mall in town / Why settle for switches or a big

50 Gaines School Rd., 706-543-6368 Skater-owned and operated, we ride what we sell! Fully stocked with professional skateboards from Element, Plan B, Creature, Habitat, Krooked and more, safety equipment, accessories, footwear and clothing from Vans, Etnies, Draven, Independent, Es, Vox, Elwood, Spitfire and Emerica. Conveniently located just one mile from the Skate Park of Athens. Open 7 days a week—’til 6 p.m. Christmas Eve. All major credit cards accepted.

550 Athens Rd., Winterville, 706-742-7149 Looking for a gift that has meaning and a personal touch? We have the perfect presents! From unique ornaments to gifts that grow, we can help you give the best gifts in town. Create a combination of live plants, give a birdseed wreath, birdhouse, birdbath, or ring in the new

Bel-Jean Copy/Print Center

163 E. Broad St., 706-548-3648 Personalized stationery and note cards make a great gift for the finicky people on your list. We also specialize in creating custom-color Christmas cards, party invitations and calendars for the budget-conscious shopper. We have been locally owned and independently operated since 1983. Stop in today!

www.project-safe.org, 706-549-0922 The holidays are all about giving, and at a time when every penny counts it’s important to remember that even small donations make a big difference. At the Project Safe emergency shelter, items like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, personal toiletries, blankets and pillows are always needed. Donations can be brought to the Project Safe Thrift Store, located at the corner of Hawthorne and Prince Avenue in the Bell’s Shopping center, Monday through Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

www.georgiacenter.uga.edu/flagpole Wishing you Happy Holidays! Try UGA Online. We have Credit Classes. Drop/Add is easy. Check it out today!

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

11

miscellany Out and About Around Athens

1035 Baxter St. • 706-548-5334

THE WHITE BUFFALO’S

CHRISTMAS FOR CHILDREN

TUESDAY,

DECEMBER 22 at 6pm

All Children are invited to visit with Santa!

More Holiday Spirits: Last week, after writing on holiday drinking and local bar meetings, I took a quick trip across the Atlantic for a few days of continental consumption. On Sunday, after a 10-hour, wine-sedated flight, I had a quiet Athens evening: Maker’s Mark at The Globe, the Coen brothers at Ciné and red wine, lovely company and Nate Nelson at Farm 255.

On Monday, my “brief” meeting with musician and 40 Watt bartender Zack Hosey ended with last call at Max Canada.

Tuesday morning, I met with Bain Mattox, musician and bar manager at Five and Ten, to discuss a collaboration with Matt Downs and Chris Luken, bar man at The National, where I would, that evening, have dinner with a London-based photographer (with whom I had reconnected several months before at a bar in New York), Duncan, several other servers, artists, musicians and Doug Booher, who told me about his restaurant and bar project. Later, we would move to the Manhattan, where we met some other food industry and musician friends and, finally, to the 40 Watt.

The Drinking Scene: Athens’ music, art and food scenes are infinitely diverse and intricately linked, and they come together night after night at the bar. After three months in town—and far too many hours on barstools— I barely have scratched the surface of any.

Luken of The National were considering a similar project and even looking at the same space. After one meeting, their plans converged, and the resulting project should open in February.

“Chris and I have both had two kids in two years,” Mattox says, and he understands that for many of his peers, “going downtown is a big hassle.” Mattox walks to work and notes, “probably half the people at Ike and Jane walk up” from their neighborhoods. Normal Bar will serve as a central nightspot in the area and, further, host “any kind of special event that the neighborhood wants to have.” And most nights, an owner will be on-site. “I want people to feel like they can come and talk to the owner,” Mattox says, and that they know the person behind the bar.

Catering to the Normaltown, Boulevard and hospital communities, Normal Bar will be an “adult-friendly” spot where “you can talk to and run into friends” and casually grab a drink. “I don’t want anybody to feel like they need to be fancy,” Mattox says, and the bar will aim for “attainable simplicity,” with dark wood, warm colors, free snacks, special and classic cocktails (“I don’t think any of us considers himself a mixologist,” Mattox says), “fantastic but inexpensive wine,” and a “big focus” on beer, which will be on ice at all times and rotate seasonally on tap.

Rachel Bailey

Mer C r

196 Alps Rd. • Beechwood Center 706.354.6655

ute n i m Last ay Gifts e Holid 5 of th t Open by 4 n’s fines thru December 23 regio rtists a n atio c o l e Oconee Cultural Arts in on lry, e w e j ngs, photogr i t n i pa art, ulptu fiber mics, sc oks cera made bo ida hand ves, hol fts scar sonal gi sea

Foundation

34 School Street Watkinsville Tues-Sat 10am - 4pm 706 769-4565

www.ocaf.com

12

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

The Lincoln, a fire-grill restaurant with an adjoining bar, will fill an empty space in the Chase Street warehouses.

With each football season comes a new collection of nearly indistinguishable college bars, but in recent years locals have found greater variety beyond the campus realm, and several upcoming developments promise to expand these options further.

Athens’ nightlife, it seems, is growing up.

While local standards keep up their reputations, and music venues grow more sophisticated, some developers have raised the bar, literally. And soon, discerning Athenians will have two more hangouts—upscale establishments with thoughtful owners, mature clientele, tasteful menus and cozy interiors, all without downtown parking.

Cozying Up: Bain Mattox is a carpenter, bartender and member of the band Bain Mattox and Shot from Guns (his wife, too, is a musician, in the band Tin Cup Prophette).

I met him sitting at the Five and Ten bar; he was no less classy in carpentry clothes on a rainy morning. Mattox lives in the Boulevard area and had long imagined a neighborhood bar. When he began making plans to fill the Normaltown void, he learned that Matt Downs of Luna Bread and Ike and Jane and Chris

Getting Toasty: And in the fall, another burgeoning neighborhood will welcome its first restaurant and bar. The Lincoln, a firegrill restaurant with an adjoining bar, will fill a burnt-out space and garden in the Chase Street Warehouses. With a prominent New York design team and a New York-trained chef, Doug Booher will create a “destination restaurant,” with courtyard seating, an upper-level private dining room and “clean, well-prepared” rotisserie food from a “San Francisco-style” open wood-flame stove.

Booher owns a wood mill and plans to build spaces that are “comfortable” and “cozy without feeling like a period bar.”

Separate from the restaurant, but with the same name, Booher’s four-hundred-square-foot bar will offer table service, table reservations, specialty cocktails and a club cellar, where members can store their own wine. “We won’t have two-dollar beers,” Booher says, “and if you spill your drink, you’ll get kicked out.”

Two new places to drink, and a reason to practice holding my liquor—do liver transplant lists take reservations?

m

Elaine Ely misc@flagpole.com

art notes Puppets on a String Small Stages: For his latest series, local artist Alexei Gural has moved away from magazine clippings toward the use of Internet sources and his own photography in his dramatic collages. On display through December at Flicker Theatre & Bar, Gural’s small tableaus still depend upon the same motifs as his older works: clashes of scale, anachronisms and bizarre juxtaposition. Yet, in this series each jigsaw vignette seems more seamlessly and glossily joined together than his previous compositions. Each features a female figure, modeled by a local personality such as Rebekah Rogers from the band Creepy or Rebecca Van Damm from the band Major Love Event, who seems at once out of place and at home in her motley surroundings.

fauna to comics-inspired characters. While I’m not as interested in the collages made of insect parts and cut-out drawings, I love the detail and imagination of an adjacent seascape showing a sinking ship being devoured by an underwater creature, a garden of quasi-anthropomorphic animals and a gothic cathedral emitting swarms of black bugs. And what’s not to love about a gold cross picturing a papal figure casting down a fiery demon with the statement “Daemon gets served”?

It’s the End of the World: New works by architect and artist David Barron and former UGA sculpture professor Jim Buonaccorsi share the interior space of the Visionary Growth Gallery in Danielsville. Initially, it might seem that the works have little in common. Barron’s large, almost non-objective abstractions are comprised of more formal concerns, their prettily cadenced patterns of soft shapes and prismatic color the end goal. In contrast, Buonaccorsi’s imposing metal structures are all militaristic machismo. What joins the two artists featured in “Our Way the Only Way” thematically is a shared vision of the world as on a fast track to self-imposed destruction. It’s easy to see the sociopolitical message in Buonaccorsi’s “Backed Into a Corner,” a dark anti-monument made of army-green metal that houses on its lowest registers a “clusterfuck” bomb and on its upper level a hanging, gunmetal gray, fractured skeleton head. A text on the topmost pediment reads: “U.S. Causalities in Iraq—October Shadowbox collage by Alexei Gural at Flicker Theatre & Bar through 3, 2008—34,857.” Though December. it looks like an altarpiece or monument, it does not celJoseph Cornell’s multimedia works are ebrate the perceived glories of war: instead it the most immediate influences that come puts on display the grim facts of death. to mind when looking at Gural’s shadowbox Perhaps less readily apparent are similar collages, but an eclectic mix of historical art themes in Barron’s paintings. Similar to the references fills in the dense spaces of Gural’s drip paintings of Pollock, Barron’s homage excruciatingly precise cut-outs; passages lifted to the end of the world, “2012,” has figures from Old Master paintings co-exist alonghidden in the abstract tracery of sand and side pop-culture icons, while Pre-Raphaelite paint. The figures are quite specific, though; compositions are reconfigured to take on a the characters of Christ and Mohammed are more contemporary guise. Gural is open about engaged in a constant battle. The act of lookreferencing Cornell, admitting in his artist’s ing has to be a metaphor for the state of statement that although he does not utilize world affairs: while the two opposing figures the array of media Cornell did, both “share (i.e., the problem) aren’t easy to find, once the need for a small stage.” The most literal you do, the theme is obvious. illustration of this notion is a work illustratWhile the show certainly has dark overing a tiny puppet theater that depicts a girl tones, there are moments of humor and three times: she is barely hidden behind the lightheartedness. Buonaccorsi’s “Defense stage as she holds up a miniature marionette Spending” is an imaginary supply order. A version of herself who, in turn, controls the long wooden box houses a couple of 2 x 4 string of a third, smaller puppet. Thus, the boards, pointing to the wasted money and stylistic theatricality and forced artifice of his effort of military methods. Barron’s “Worlds diminutive stages are central to the themes of Apart” is a softly hued painting that pictures Gural’s work. two cellular shapes either joining or splitting, but the image seems to suggest rebirth and Exorcise Your Demons: Drawings and paintrenewal. The show will be up through January, ings by Noah McCarthy and James Greer are and if the “doom and gloom” of Barron and up at The Grit this month. The show consists Buonaccorsi’s messages is correct, I can’t of small, intricately detailed drawings, tiny think of a better place to be when the end assemblages and a series of black-and-white comes than Visionary Growth’s bucolic sculpworks that seems largely about a battle ture garden and gallery. between good and evil. The styles range from a Dürer-esque love of highly detailed flora and Rebecca Brantley

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

13

movie dope Some releases may not be showing locally this week.

2012 (PG-13) 2012 uses the conspiracy-theorist wet-dream of the Mayan calendar’s predicted Earth expiration date—Dec. 21, 2012—as the springboard for the biggest disaster picture ever. This audacious, awful flick makes Emmerich’s last cinematic sermon, The Day After Tomorrow, look downright documentarian and artful.

ANTICHRIST (R) Lars von Trier (Breaking the Waves, Dogville) likes to make a splash. His latest, a psychological horror torture porn drama, split Cannes but has failed to generate much buzz in the real world.

A couple (Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg), grieving the loss of a child, head to a cabin in the woods to save their marriage. But what was bad soon becomes worse. I’m always excited about new output from von Trier, so you can imagine how intrigued I am by his version of a horror flick.

ARMORED (PG-13) A crew of security guards (Matt Dillon, Laurence Fishburne, Jean Reno, Skeet Ulrich and Amaury Nolasco) enlist the new guy (Columbus Short) in a scheme to steal $42 million. Of course, it goes wrong, pitting the newbie against the vets. I’ll give you one guess who comes out on top.

AVATAR (PG-13) I am quite pumped—though not nearly stoked— for the return of self-proclaimed “King of the World” James Cameron. The astonishing auteur of Terminator, Aliens and Terminator 2: Judgment Day has not helmed a feature since his multiple Oscar winner, 1997’s titanic Titanic. In Avatar space marines must pacify a blue, alien warrior race so man can gobble up their valuable natural resource.

BLACK DYNAMITE (R) Another homage to blaxploitation, Black Dynamite stars co-writer Michael Jai White (Spawn) as the titular hero who must avenge his brother’s murder and right

neighborhood wrongs all the way to the White House (James McManus plays Richard Nixon himself). I kind of hope this movie actually makes it to Athens.

Winner of the Seattle International Film Festival’s Golden Space Needle Award for Best Film. With Arsenio Hall and “In Living Color”’s Tommy Davidson.

THE BLIND SIDE (PG-13) A rich white couple, Leigh Anne and Sean Touhy (Sandra Bullock and easygoing Tim McGraw), take in Big Mike, an African-American giant given up on by most of Memphis. They turn his life around; he eventually earns a scholarship to Ole Miss. He doesn’t really do anything to change their lives, although the movie insists that he does.

BROTHERS (R) Captain Sam Cahill (Tobey Maguire) is not only the perfect soldier; he is the perfect father and husband. After being redeployed to Afghanistan, Sam is declared KIA after his helicopter is shot down. His devastated wife Grace leans on her troubled brother-in-law, and Tommy helps her raise his nieces and remodels her pathetic kitchen. Then POW Sam comes back to life, and nothing is the same. I am a sucker for a good fraternal tale, and Brothers did not disappoint.

CAPITALISM: A LOVE STORY (R) A bit drier than firebrand filmmaker Michael Moore’s usual polemics, Capitalism: A Love Story is scary and depressing. Moore compellingly connects the dots between our elected representatives and the greedy bastards on Wall Street without forgetting we the little people that keep losing our houses.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (PG) Oscarwinning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis’ third foray into motion-capture animation is his most successful. ‘Oliday Spirit is piled in waist-high drifts, and the animation is absolutely gorgeous, if still perched on the edge of the “uncanny valley.” Carrey voices

multiple roles as Ebenezer Scrooge, young Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. His old Scrooge is the most successful. The problem with this newest version of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic is its familiarity.

THE COUNTRY TEACHER (NR) 2008. A gifted young teacher befriends a single mother and her teenage son in a tiny country town. Things get complicated when the teacher’s ex-

This is where I find my fashion inspiration. boyfriend arrives, forcing the teacher to confront his secret affection for his younger pupil.

COUPLES RETREAT (PG-13) Writers Vince Vaughn, Jon Favreau and Dana Fox also star in this lazily glued-together sitcom collage of misunderstandings about sex, massages, et cetera and platitudes about the hard work it takes to maintain the two-way street of a relationship.

CRAZY HEART (R) Jeff Bridges is being positioned for his fifth Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of hard-living country music singer Bad Blake. After a string of bad marriages, alcoholic Bad gets one last shot, thanks to a younger woman, journalist Jean Craddock (Maggie Gyllenhaal). He

M OVIE L ISTI NG S

Theater schedules often change after our deadline. Please call ahead.

ACC LIBRARY (706-613-3650)

The Country Teacher (NR) 7:00 (Th. 12/17)

BEECHWOOD (706-546-1011)

Beechwood movie times are only accurate through Dec. 17.

Visit www.flagpole.com for updated times.

2012 (PG-13) 4:30, 8:15 Armored (PG-13) 5:10, 7:20, 9:25 Blind Side (PG-13) 4:10, 7:00, 9:45 Brothers (R) 4:25, 7:25, 9:55 A Christmas Carol 3D (PG) 5:00, 7:15, 9:30 Everybody’s Fine (PG-13) 4:25, 7:35, 9:55 Fantastic Mr. Fox (PG) 5:20, 7:30, 9:40 Invictus (PG-13) 4:00, 7:00, 9:50 Ninja Assassin (R) 4:45, 9:35 Old Dogs (PG) 7:25 (no 7:25 show W. 12/16) The Princess and the Frog (G) 5:00, 7:15, 9:30 Riff Trax: Christmas Shorts (G) 8:00 (W. 12/16 only) The Twilight Saga: New Moon (PG-13) 4:15, 7:15, 10:00

CARMIKE 12 (706-354-0016)

Carmike 12 movie times are only accurate through Dec. 17.

Visit www.flagpole.com for updated times.

2012 (PG-13) 12:20, 3:40, 7:00 Armored (PG-13) 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40 Blind Side (PG-13) 1:25, 4:20, 7:10, 10:00 The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day (R) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:50 Brothers (R) 1:35, 4:15, 7:10, 9:50 A Christmas Carol 3D (PG) 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:50 Dave Matthews 3D (PG) 1:00, 3:15, 5:30, 7:45, 10:00

14

Everybody’s Fine (PG-13)1:25, 7:00 Fantastic Mr. Fox (PG) 3:30, 9:30 Invictus (PG-13) 1:20, 4:15, 7:10, 10:00 Ninja Assassin (R) 3:50, 9:30 Old Dogs (PG) 1:00, 7:00 The Princess and the Frog (G) 12:35, 2:50, 5:05, 7:20, 9:35 The Twilight Saga: New Moon (PG-13) 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:50

CINÉ (706-353-3343)

New York, I Love You (R) 9:45 (ends Th. 12/17) Paris (R) 7:00 (ends Th. 12/17) The Road (R) 5:15, 7:30, 9:45 (add’l times Sa. 12/19–Su. 12/20: 2:45) (no 9:45 show Su. 12/20) (starts F. 12/18) A Serious Man (R) 5:00, 7:15, 9:30 (no 9:30 show Su. 12/20) Where the Wild Things Are (PG) 4:45 (W. 12/16–Th. 12/17), midnight (F. 12/18), 2:30 (Sa. 12/19–Su. 12/20)

GEORGIA SQUARE 5 (706-548-3426)

Georgia Square Five movie times are only accurate through Dec. 17. Visit www.flagpole.com for updated times.

I Can Do Bad All By Myself (PG-13) 4:25, 10:00 Capitalism: A Love Story (R) 4:35, 9:55 Couples Retreat (PG-13) 4:30, 7:25, 10:00 The Fourth Kind (PG-13) 5:30, 7:50, 10:15 The Stepfather (PG-13) 5:25, 7:45, 10:10 Whiteout (R) 7:35 Zombieland (R) 7:40

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

also begins to mentor up-and-coming country music sensation, Tommy Sweet (Colin Farrell). Robert Duvall also stars in filmmaker Scott Cooper’s directorial debut, adapted from the novel by Thomas Cobb.

DARE (R) Three high school seniors—aspiring actress and good girl Alexa Walker (Emmy Rossum), her best friend Ben Berger (Ashley Springer, Teeth) and bad boy Johnny Drake (Zach Gilford of “Friday Night

Lights”)—become embroiled in an intimate, complicated relationship.

The trailer looks kind of CW-y. With Ana Gasteyer, Rooney Mara, Sandra Bernhard and Alan Cumming.

DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE MORGANS? (PG-13) Hugh Grant and Sarah Jessica Parker play the Morgans, an unhappily married city couple relocated to the wilds of Wyoming after witnessing a murder. One can imagine they will rekindle their love affair once they have left behind the hustle and bustle of city living.

AN EDUCATION (PG-13) Teenaged Jenny (Carey Mulligan) comes of age in the 1960s suburban London upon the arrival of David (Peter Sarsgaard), a playboy nearly twice her age. Mulligan is winning raves and positioning herself on the shortlist of potential Oscar dark horses. Director Lone Scherfig also helmed Italian for Beginners and bestselling novelist Nick Hornby (High Fidelity and About a Boy) adapted the memoir by Lynn Barber. Winner of the Dramatic World Cinema Audience Award, Cinematography Award, as well as a Grand Jury Prize nomination from the Sundance Film Festival.

EVERYBODY’S FINE (PG-13) Robert De Niro stars as widower Frank Goode, who travels across the country to visit his grown-up kids (Barrymore, Beckinsale and Rockwell), who all confided in their recently deceased mother.

Now Frank wants to know what is really going on with his not-so-perfect kids.

FANTASTIC MR. FOX (PG) A lock for a Best Animated Feature nomination come February, the first family film by Wes Anderson is also the most genuinely appealing and possibly most human feature the Oscar-nominated auteur has ever dreamed up (with the help of Mr. Roald Dahl, of course).

Anderson has crafted—quite literally as the animation is primarily accomplished via stop motion—a glorious storybook world.

THE FOURTH KIND (PG-13) The Fourth Kind, a Blair Witch-y alien abduction thriller, suffers comparisons to recent horror phenomenon, Paranormal Activity. In fact, The Fourth

Kind deserves a look. The chutzpah of filmmaker Olatunde Osunsanmi in his second film pays off. The writerdirector successfully combines fake interviews of purportedly real abductees with Hollywood-level recreations starring Milla Jovovich, Will Patton and Elias Koteas for a chilling genre flick that will have gullible filmgoers frightened for months.

GENTLEMEN BRONCOS (PG13) Science-fiction author Ronald Chevalier (the excellent, Emmynominated Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords, the band and the TV program) battles plagiarism charges leveled by a teenage writer, Benjamin Purvis (The Forbidden Kingdom’s Michael Angarano), homeschooled by his eccentric mother (Jennifer Coolidge). Napoleon Dynamite director Jared Hess tries to recover from his poorly received sophomore effort, Nacho Libre. Cowritten

by Hess’ wife, Jerusha. With Sam Rockwell and producer Mike White.

I CAN DO BAD ALL BY MYSELF (PG-13) The logline for Tyler Perry’s newest film featuring the writerdirector-producer-actor’s popular alter ego, Madea, reads exactly as his fans expect. Madea hands three young thieves over to their hard-living, blues-singing Aunt April who does not want to deal with them. But will these kids and a sexy new tenant (Adam Rodriguez) help April get her life on track? With Mary J. Blige and Gladys Knight.

INVICTUS (PG-13) Recently freed, newly elected South African President Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) attempts to unite his divided country through the sport of rugby. Along the way, he enlists national team captain Francois Pienaar (a beefed-up Matt Damon) in his quest to win the 1995 Rugby World Cup. In the trailers for Freeman’s third teaming with director Clint Eastwood (the almost-an-octagenarian’s fifth film in five years), I am having trouble seeing Mandela and not the Oscar winning actor.

THE LOVELY BONES (PG-13) Oscarwinning visionary Peter Jackson’s long-awaited adaptation of Alice Sebold’s bestseller finally comes to the screen. While the sumptuous trailer is jaw-dropping, advance word cannot quite make up its mind. Young Susie Salmon (Atonement Oscar nominee Saoirse Ronan,) watches as her family (Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon and Rose McIver) falls apart in the aftermath of her unsolved murder. With Michael Imperioli (“The Sopranos”) and Stanley Tucci as Susie’s neighborly killer.

ME AND ORSON WELLES (PG13) Director Richard Linklater’s latest stars Zac Efron and Claire Danes as two actors cast opposite one another in Orson Welles’ 1937 staging of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Efron plays aspiring actor Richard Samuels who falls for his older costar, Sonja Jones (Danes). The Oscar-nominated Linklater (Slacker, Dazed and Confused, School of Rock) loves to keep audiences guessing, but will anyone outside of his true fanatics want to see his first period piece since the 1998 Western, The Newton Boys?

THE MESSENGER (R) Films about the Iraq War still have not proved popular with audiences, but I’m Not There screenwriter Oren Moverman is

testing the waters with his directorial debut. A soldier (the buzzy Ben Foster) struggles with his conscience after falling for the widow of a fallen officer.

Woody Harrelson has been getting some positive pub. Winner of the Silver Berlin Bear and the Peace Film Award from the Berlin International Film Festival and two Best Film prizes from the Deauville Film Festival.

NEW YORK, I LOVE YOU (R) Shia LeBeouf, Natalie Portman, The Hangover’s breakout star Bradley Cooper, Blake Lively, Orlando Bloom, Robin Wright Penn, Hayden Christensen, Christina Ricci, John Hurt, Ethan Hawke, James Caan, Justin Bartha, Chris Cooper, Andy Garcia, Julie Christie, Eli Wallach, Cloris Leachman, Irrfan Khan and many, many more star in an anthology of love stories set in New York City.

NINE (PG-13) Rob Marshall brought Chicago to the screen with resounding, award-winning success. He now turns to the Tony Award-winning adaptation of Federico Fellini’s autobiographical film, 8 ½. Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Guido Contini, a famous film director struggling through a midlife crisis as he simultaneously tries to make a movie for which he cannot write the script and save his marriage. Michael Tolkin and the late Anthony Minghella adapted the Broadway book for film.

With Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Nicole Kidman, Sophia Loren, Kate Hudson and Fergie.

NINJA ASSASSIN (R) This flick looks totally badass. It also just looks bad. A rogue ninja, Raizo (Rain, Speed Racer), teams up with an Interpol agent (Naomie Harris, 28 Days Later and the last two Pirates of the Caribbean) to take down a shadowy secret society of assassins, the Ozunu clan. Director James McTeigue last helmed V for Vendetta for the Wachowski brothers.

OLD DOGS (PG) A spiritual followup to Wild Hogs, Old Dogs shares star John Travolta, director Walt Becker (Van Wilder), and old-man hijinks. Ben (Robin Williams) is a successful businessman who discovers he fathered twins. Naturally, he enlists his bachelor pal (Travolta) when asked to care for the kids for an extended period of time.

Costar Seth Green looks to be funny.

With Kelly Preston, Lori Loughlin, Matt Dillon and the late Bernie Mac in his final role.

ONG BAK 2 (R) I don’t really remember the first Ong Bak, though I know I saw it. (Rereading my own review of 2005’s The Protector reminded me that I preferred its 2003 predecessor, if that means anything to you.) Tien (Tony Jaa) must use his fighting skills to get revenge on the man who killed his parents. Director and star Jaa reportedly took a two month sabbatical before returning to finish shooting the movie with the help of writer Panna Rittikrai.

PARIS (R) 2008. In his most recent film since 2004’s The Russian Dolls, director Cédric Klapisch presents the intersecting stories of various characters living, loving and dying in Paris.

With an all-star cast featuring Juliette Binoche, Paris was nominated for three César awards.

PRECIOUS (R) Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire tells the story of an overweight, illiterate teen mother (Gabourey “Gabby” Sidibe), who is pregnant with her second child when she gets a chance to turn her life around at an alternative school. I never thought I would write that Mo’Nique is generating serious Oscar buzz with her portrayal of Precious’ abusive mother.

Can the Sundance favorite score with the larger moviegoing audience?

Public plugs from mega-producers and tastemakers Oprah and Tyler Perry should help. Written and directed by Lee Daniels. With Mariah Carey.

THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (G) See Movie Pick.

THE PRIVATE LIVES OF PIPPA LEE (R) Fifty-year-old Pippa Lee (Robin Wright) begins to quietly have a nervous breakdown after her much older husband (Academy Award winner Alan Arkin) moves them from New York City to a retirement home and has an affair with a younger woman.

Filmmaker Rebecca Miller (The Ballad of Jack and Rose) adapts her own book for her fourth feature. With Mike Binder, Winona Ryder, Maria Bello, Keanu Reeves, Blake Lively, Robin Weigert (“Deadwood”’s Calamity Jane), Julianne Moore and Monica Belluci.

RED CLIFF (R) During the Han Dynasty, two rival warlords, Sun Quan and Liu Bei, pool their resources to combat power-mad Prime Minister Cao Cao, who seeks to take over both men’s kingdoms. Director John Woo’s return is a triumph. The most expensive Asian production of all-time is also the number one domestically made film in China. Woo himself edited the twopart epic into two and a half hours for America’s short attention spans. Winner of five Hong Kong Film Awards.

THE ROAD (R) Man, I want this film to be good. The adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s highly acclaimed Pulitzer Prize winner has a lot of hype and expectation to live up to. Viggo Mortensen stars as the nameless, dying father, scouring the post-apocalypse for a future for his young son (Kodi SmitMcPhee). Aussie writer-director John Hillcoat has little to his name save a connection to Nick Cave. With Charlize Theron as the wife and mother.

THE ROOM (R) See Movie Pick.

A SERIOUS MAN (R) College physics professor Larry Gopnik (Michael Stuhlbarg) tries to be a serious man.

He winds up being more of an intimidated, infuriated man. The hilariously sad life of Larry Gopnick unfolds with a realism, slyly cut with trademark Coen surreality, easier to believe than

anything they have produced since Fargo. A Serious Man perfectly blends what the Coens’ love and do best, bleak humor and existential dilemma.

A SINGLE MAN (PG-13) Strong word of mouth precedes Tom Ford’s drama of an English professor, George (Colin Firth), who tries to go about his normal life after the death of his partner. The cast includes Julianne Moore, Matthew Goode, Ginnifer Goodwin and Nicholas Hoult (About a Boy). Filmmaker Ford fascinates; as a fashion designer, he turned around Gucci. By next year, he could potentially be a multiple award winning writer-director.

THE STEPFATHER (PG-13) The Stepfather stars Dylan Walsh as a man willing to kill for the perfect family.

Walsh’s five-season body of work on “Nip/Tuck” was a perfect audition reel to replace the original stepfather, Terry O’Quinn. The problem with the new Stepfather is liking it feels like I’m cheating on the old (1987) one, a tense thriller that didn’t need to be redone.

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: NEW MOON (PG-13) All Twilight hating aside, the second cinematic installment of the four-part series bests the first film, even with less of Robert Pattinson’s Edward—a loss tempered by the promotion of the mostly shirtless Taylor Lautner. Twilight true believers will have no trouble loving the follow-up as much, if not more than, its predecessor. Those not inducted into the ever-expanding cult will wonder what all the fuss is about.

UP IN THE AIR (R) Oscar-nominated director Jason Reitman’s follow-up to Juno stars George Clooney as Ryan Bingham, who lives out of a suitcase as he travels cross-country to fire people.

Newly tasked with mentoring a young employee, Natalie (Anna Kendrick), Ryan begins to see the emptiness of his traveling lifestyle once his company forcibly grounds him. Adapted

from Walter Kirn’s novel by Reitman and Sheldon Turner, who has nothing impressive on his filmography.

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE (PG) It is quite impressive what director Spike Jonze and cowriter Dave Eggers do with Maurice Sendak’s beloved 339 words. They expand upon his wild world, populated by giant-headed monsters and a boy in a wolfsuit named Max, with the same imaginative recklessness as Sendak.

WHITEOUT (R) Based on a comic

by Greg Rucka, Whiteout stars Kate Beckinsale as U.S. Marshal Carrie Stetko, who must track a killer before six months of darkness set in at Antarctica’s McMurdo Station. Director Dominic Sena previously helmed Swordfish and Gone in Sixty Seconds; those movies don’t quite build confidence for Sena’s latest. l THE YOUNG VICTORIA (PG) Emily Blunt stars as youthful monarch, Queen Victoria, in the turbulent early years of her reign. Rupert Friend stars as her enduring love, Prince Albert.

Blunt has already been nominated for a British Independent Film Award for Best Actress, and the overly British cast (Paul Bettany, Miranda Richardson and Mark Strong) is particularly well-built.

Jean-Marc Vallée directs a script from Oscar winner Julian Fellowes.

ZOMBIELAND (R) Zombieland is funny, surprising, violent; if horrorcomedy fans can name it, Zombieland’s got it. Columbus (Jesse Eisenberg), Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson), Wichita (Emma Stone), and her little sister, Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) trek across the a zombie-ravaged country in search of a safe place to call home.

Zombieland’s action-packed destination may strike one as rote, but the living dead-cluttered road leading there is as entertaining as Shaun of the Dead.

Drew Wheeler

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movie pick

threats & promises

Reason to Stay Up Late

Music News And Gossip

THE ROOM (R) I cannot believe The Room has been constantly playing in Athens for months, yet I’m only now getting around to seeing it.

I love bad movies. The Room, from baffling “auteur” Tommy Wiseau, hits the trifecta; it’s a crappy cult classic.

Opening with a discount font and a tinkly piano score that could be at home in a period piece set in 15th-century Spain, The Room promises Skinemax-level titillation. It does not quite deliver. Johnny (writer-producerdirector-starcharlatan Wiseau) is engaged to Lisa (Juliette Danielle), who embarks on an affair with Johnny’s “best friend,” Mark (Greg Sestero), for no apparent reason, which may be why she constantly reminds him that she loves him.

The Room might be the “Mona Lisa” of bad movies; its greatness lies in its mysterious smile, which a laughing Wiseau trots out at the oddest moments. Sold on the nullifying claims that it “is an electrifying black comedy” with “the passion of Tennessee Williams,” The Room has no identity. The chronic humor is unintended and often a result of the “passionate” dramatics. The film is less wellshot and well-lit than the super-soft-core

pornography it pretends not to be. Wiseau treats (and by treat, I mean tortures) us to several sex scenes (or just one, as the footage appears to be recycled) that spotlight the doit-all filmmaker’s rancid bodybuilder physique.

Yet it is Wiseau himself who makes this horrible movie so damn entertaining. The legend of his quixotic performance will only grow.

The inexplicable laughter, the Mickey Rourkeish monstrousness, the weird teen petulance combine into a compellingly watchable performance. When Wiseau is not in The Room, which happens more often than one would think (or want), he is missed. Fortunately, his enterprising spirit is a constant through his horrendous writing and incompetent direction.

The Room will leave you with so many questions that don’t need answering: Did Johnny and Lisa get married? What about Claudette’s cancer? Why do they want to throw the football so much? Why am I in a densely populated theater at one in the morning watching this strange, hysterical man vomit drama on the big screen?

Drew Wheeler

movie pick What Is Old Is New Again THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (G) How refreshing it is to watch an animated feature drawn by hand and not created entirely on a computer! The Princess and the Frog took years off my viewing self, transporting back to the days of Cinderella reissues and the heady 1990s renaissance, when the House of Mouse hand-crafted their new generation of classics—Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and The Lion King.

An updated retelling of The Frog Prince, The Princess and the Frog boasts Disney’s newest addition to their Princess brand, the first AfricanAmerican Princess, Tiana. In 1920s New Orleans, Tiana (v.

Anika Noni Rose, Dreamgirls) works two jobs so she can open a restaurant and fulfill the dream she shared with her father (v. Terrence Howard).

When she meets a prince, Naveen (v. Bruno Campos,), turned into a frog by the evil Shadow Man (v. Keith David), Tiana kisses him to achieve the fairy tale’s happily ever after. Not being an actual princess, all she accomplishes is her own transformation into a mucus-secreting frog. Yuck! Lost in the bayou, Tiana and Naveen seek the assistance of a trumpet-playing alligator, Louis (v. Michael

16

Leon-Wooley), and Cajun firefly, Ray (v. Jim Cummings), as they search for old Mama Odie (v. Jennifer Lewis), who can hopefully break the bad man’s spell.

The Princess and the Frog is directed by the duo behind The Little Mermaid and Aladdin, Ron Clements and John Musker, who channel the superiority of those efforts. References to past Disney classics give Princess the feel of a greatest hits album.

The film’s familiarity is not a knock. The Shadow Man’s number, “Friends on the Other Side,” swings to a catchy, villainous beat not unlike “Legend in Sleepy Hollow.”

Most of the parents leaving the theater seemed pleased, cajoling positive critiques from their children, but the amount of restlessness heard during the movie speaks louder. In particular, the film’s love ballad, “Ma Belle Evangeline,” is a showstopper, just not in the good way.

But those slow moments are few. After years of pale Pixar imitations, animation needed a hand-drawn refresher, and who better to provide it than the studio that started the genre 72 years ago?

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

Drew Wheeler

Hey there, everyone. As of this moment you have about one week left of shopping until you can announce that you’re officially broke.

But, before you leave town or simply tuck into some stay-at-home nog, pay attention to the town around you. It’s all happening right here.

Examples to follow…

Laff It Up: Jeff Capurso and Drew Vandenberg of Chase Park Transduction got word last week that their work is up for a Grammy award in 2010. Specifically, Capurso handled the editing and mastering, and Vandenberg did the mixing. Oh, which album?

Well, would you believe it’s My Weakness Is Strong by comedian Patton Oswalt? Yep, that’s the one. The album was recorded at the Lisner Auditorium at George Washington University in DC, released in August of this year and produced by erstwhile Athens homeboy Henry Owings. Congratulations to all involved!

Three Is the Magic Number: Local road warriors The Whigs will release their third fulllength recording on Mar. 2, 2010 through ATO Records. Titled In the Dark, the album is hotly anticipated according to the label, who, like all labels, announced this news to the world via a press release laden with critical praise from all over. Don’t you know by now that writers don’t want any opinions but their own?

I mean, geesh! OK, The Whigs so I joke. Sort of. In total reality, though, I sincerely hope this album breaks The Whigs wide open everywhere. If anyone in town has earned their success, they have. And, interpersonally, they’re tops in my book. The band has posted two new tracks at www.thewhigs.com/ music/in-the-dark-single.

And, If You Just Can’t Wait…: What are you doing on Friday, Dec. 18? Well, if you’re in Atlanta, why not head to the King Plow Arts Center (887 West Marietta St.) and catch the aforementioned Whigs playing a “Christmas Soiree” with Athens locals Futurebirds? The $20 ticket price may seem a bit steep, admittedly, but 1) it’s in Atlanta and 2) the King Plow Arts Center is a classy joint. Advance tickets are available at www.gallerygroupatlanta.com. You can check out Futurebirds over at www.myspace.com/futurebirds, but please try to ignore the eye-shattering, 2007 graphics on that page. The tunes are sweet, though.

Back Up: Although it’s basically in every rock nerd’s encyclopedia that Harvey Milk’s official debut album was the 1994 release My Love Is Higher Than Your Assessment of What My Love Could Be, there was, to paraphrase C.S. Lewis, a deeper magic from before the dawn of time.

That means the tapes containing what should have been Harvey Milk’s debut album will be released on the Hydra Head label on Jan. 26.

The tapes have been cleaned up and doubly remastered and sound killer. For more info see www.hydrahead.com.

Where’s (Jack) Loganville?: Athens treasure and legend Jack Logan has, in his words,

“dusted off the old four-track cassette deck and started to record more of that lo-fi trash that made Bulk the classic it was and is.” Just so you know, he’s being serious and sarcastic in the same sentence there. He’s referencing the 42-track 1994 album that took him from obscurity to the cusp of international celebrity. While Logan has recorded steadily since then—and notched his belt with several more releases—this revisiting of the four-track is welcome news. His new recordings are available over at www.jacklogantrax.blogspot.com, and you should check back regularly as he adds more.

Holidays on Ice: A massive night of country and country-influenced stuff is happening Friday, Dec. 18 at the Office Lounge, located in the Homewood Hills Shopping Center. Billed as “Strung Out Like the Lights at Christmas Time,” doors open at 6 p.m. The show is free, but please bring a cash donation for the Empty Stocking Fund, which helps needy families in Athens. In order of appearance,

the artists performing are: Clay Leverett, Bo Beddingfiled, Curley Maple, Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreation Industry, Dodd Ferelle, Bloodkin (acoustic) and The Burning Angels. I have serious doubts that there’ll be even a drop of liquor left in the place by the time this show is over.

Home for the Holidays: Cool news this week in the form of Athens band Victor Charlie reuniting for a gig on Thursday, Dec. 17 at the Caledonia Lounge. Led by guitarist Charlie Garland, the trio blends 1980s American indie rock with fuzz-laden metal riffs. That is, they’re a grunge band. But not one of those crappy bands that got super famous by being radio slick, rather, one of those forgotten ones that barely made it out of the basement. Mark Turiano is back on drums and new bassist Clay Hinson rounds out the lineup. Radiolucent and Omega Rising share the bill this night.

Listen in on Victor Charlie over at www.my space.com/victorcharlieband.

A Hellish Christmas: OK, so there’s a show happening at Canopy Studio on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 8 p.m. It’s called The Hellfire Cabaret and, according to its organizers, will feature “an assortment of riff-raffs and freaks, performances by Athens Rock Theater, Phoenix Dance Company and as many Canopy Trapeze Artists as [they] can hang from the ceiling.” Live music is to be provided by Mad Whiskey Grin. For more info, see www.my space.com/madwhiskeygrin.

Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

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Living the Dream

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JOSH PERKINS

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hen Athens musician Jon Guthrie was reported missing on Monday, Sept. 28 after he failed to show up for work at Kum’s Fashions downtown, his friends responded immediately. Messages were sent across the Internet via email and social networking sites; folks called everyone they could think of, and search parties were formed. When he was located with his car in a remote area of eastern Clarke County, the victim of a single-car accident, it was his friends who found him.

It’s an understatement to say Guthrie was well liked. A core part of the Athens rock and punk scene, he was a member of several bands as well as the creator of his own compositions.

He had packed just over a decade of professional musicianship into his 26 years and was eagerly sought as a session and fillin player. Significantly, he played alongside his father Michael Guthrie and uncle Herb Guthrie in the long-running Athens group The Michael Guthrie Band.

This week, in a show coordinated by his father and titled “Living the Dream,” 18 bands will perform at what will be the first annual Jon Guthrie Memorial Show. Every act playing has some connection to Jon—whether he played with them in the past or they were friends. He knew a lot of bands and people in bands, though, and there would be no way to include all of them on one stage in a single night. What this writer finds so compelling is the sheer mix of styles represented. Country roots, pop punk, hardcore, experimental pop, heavy metal, progressive psychedelia, British guitar pop and more will all have a place onstage.

The massive lineup features Supercluster, Guff, Heavy Feather (formerly Jackpot City), Hayride, Love Tractor, Kemp Jones (Silent Partner, Sunny-Side Up Band), Music Hates You, Michael Guthrie, Greg Veale (Ravenstone, Normaltown Flyers) with Rick Fowler, Athens, Choptop and Thunderchief, Gabriela Mejias (Joachim’s Dream), Bruce Neese and punk bands Burns Like Fire, So It Goes and Consult the Bones.

While best known as a member of others’ projects, Guthrie was a composer in his own right. Michael Guthrie discovered sketches for songs recorded on Jon’s Digitech looper and was surprised at how complete the recordings were. Jon had also been working with The Michael Guthrie Band on songs for its next release, which is to be named Here to Eternity. Jon’s recordings, which showcase influences as diverse as Robert Fripp and Joy Division, will be released at this show under the title Eternity 2.

“This is what Jon was trying to say musically. The overall mood is tranquility. Through his guitar he could express what he couldn’t always express as a kid,” says Michael Guthrie.

Owing to the huge lineup, the show starts early at 6 p.m. and will run all the way until 2 a.m., so be prepared for a long haul. Eighteen bands is a lot of music, and the variety to be presented is incredible. Jon Guthrie had quite a long reach for such a young man; this show is the proof of that.

Gordon Lamb

WHAT: Jon Guthrie Memorial Show WHERE: 40 Watt Club WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 19, 6 p.m.

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oo Ray is cool as hell, and that’s all there is to it. I am talking Clint Eastwood, badass cool—a modern-day cowboy with a motorcycle as his steed, ramblin’ from town to town on his own terms.

When you meet a free spirit like that, you just know he’s got stories to tell; they cling to him like cigarette smoke. For over a decade Boo Ray has spun his sordid tales and gritty Southern truths as a solo troubadour, traveling from his home in North Carolina though Texas, Nashville, Los Angeles and, of course, here in Athens. But within the past year or so he’s found a new outlet for his musings for which he has a surprising, natural gift: prose.

“Sometimes people think Southerners speak slower because we’re lazy or think slowly,” he says in one blog-style essay (booraystories. blogspot.com). “Not so. We speak slower because our love of words is so great that we can’t stand to part with them.”

His short stories are candid non-fiction pieces featuring a lively mix of characters— from his “coon-ass” poker buddies to the fiery women who have stolen—and broken—his heart.

“It wasn’t a personal diary,” he explains, “I just felt compelled to spin these stories.

People would… meet some of these characters in real life, these friends of mine, and they’d say, ‘I feel like I was just in a damn movie’ or ‘you need to write a book’ …Now I’ve got an agent from a publishing company talking to me about having an editor string it into a novel and publishing it in the new year.”

Of course, that doesn’t mean he’s putting music aside any time soon. In fact, Boo Ray is back in town with a new band and a new record, Bad News Travels Fast, and it’s filled with all the yarns that make his writing so endearing.

If you’re one of the 10,000 people who bought his last release, Flow, out of Boo Ray’s trunk, be prepared for a totally new sound and a new a approach. Whereas Flow featured a nine-piece R&B band complete with a DJ, two background singers and keys, Boo Ray says he went back to basics on the new album. He stripped things down to “the essential components of good music: good songwriting, good melodies, good harmonies… and a kickass rhythm section.”

Boo Ray found all these things and a good bit of inspiration to boot after an impulsive trip out to Los Angeles.

“I had read stories about Kris Kristofferson and Glen Campbell and Jerry Reed and I wanted part of it, ya know?” he says of his trip out West. “I had been there long enough to get homesick for sweet tea and fish and grits, and I noticed people out there liked the way I talk, and then the kind of songs that are on Bad News Travels Fast started coming out of me.”

“I was writing songs about being Southern, but also singing about blue jeans and L.A.,” he laughs. “I don’t know why people like to do that… Southern singer-songwriters, for some damn reason, like to sing about their blue jeans and about the fact that they made it to L.A. It’s a trip.”

Half of the album was recorded out in L.A. with a set of A-list collaborators: drummer Steve Feronne (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), Paul Ill (Christina Aguilera), Zander Schloss (Circle Jerks) and more.

The rest of the album was written while traveling through Texas and Nashville on “songwriting appointments,” teaming up with people like Colin Linden, who co-produced the O Brother Where Art Thou? soundtrack.

For those sessions, Boo Ray recruited some of the best Athenian players, like fiddler David Blackmon and guitarist William Tonks. “I am just lucky and fortunate that people dig the music that I make and like to play it,” he says.

But if Boo Ray is pleased with the set of musicians he’s recorded with, he is absolutely raving about the live band he’s put together.

“I’m crazy about this band. Everybody can play their ass off,” says Boo Ray of Athenians Daniel Marler (electric “GIT-tar”), Steve Abercrombie (bass), Nate Hale (drums) and Ann Innecken (harmonies).

“My take on this band is that it’s kind like a Dire Straits type of scene, but other folks are saying it’s kind of like old school Rolling Stones, Gram Parsons type of scene… My plan is to get some miles on this band. By the time we play 100 dates together we’ll be ready to do a record.”

Boo Ray is also looking forward to reuniting with his old buddy Benji Hughes for the show at New Earth Music Hall, a fellow North Carolina boy Boo Ray met out in Los Angeles.

He admiringly compares Hughes to quirky pop singers like Tom Jones and Leon Russell. And of course, as anyone at Hughes’ 40 Watt show can tell you, the guy is pretty wild onstage.

“If it’s a good night, he’ll get about four songs deep in the set and he’s gonna take his shirt off,” says Boo Ray, “and there’s not going to be anything left but a mane of red hair down to his belt and a beard as big as a muskrat on his face”—an endorsement if ever there was one.

Bad News Travels Fast is available now at www.booraylive.com.

Michelle Gilzenrat

WHO: Benji Hughes, Boo Ray, Part Bear WHERE: New Earth Music Hall WHEN: Friday, Dec. 18 HOW MUCH: TBA

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Most memorable show: Little Kings. Our ew bands are as closely linked to the first secret show. I was honestly touched at soul of Athens music as Pylon. Formed the outpouring of love that we were shown in 1979 by four kids with a taste for art that night. and dance music, Pylon quickly became As we were in the midst of sound check, the next big band from the scene, following people started running past the windows of closely on the heels of fellow merry-makers Little Kings and looking in. It began to dawn The B-52s. The band’s minimal tendencies and on me that a lot of people might actually danceable beats spread across the musical come to the show. Bob [Hay], Hana [Hay] and underground, paving the way for other Athens I started moving furniture into the lot outside. bands to break though to the mainstream.

My daughter Hana told me that the WUOG After two albums and a string of opening DJs were asking for information about where slots for U2, Pylon had stopped having fun. we were playing. I told her not to call them, There was little interest being shown from but Randy’s son Adam did and did make them major labels and the time just seemed right promise not to air where the show was. They to take a break. So Pylon broke up, and its didn’t and went off the air so that they could members started families and new careers. all come to the show.

But a little prodding from R.E.M. to open on When Curtis, Michael and Randy started its Green tour, along with the band’s cover playing “Cool,” I felt like I had come home of Pylon’s “Crazy,” brought Pylon back from again. It was so electric. Curtis said it was like retirement. The band opened the tour and cranking up a big, old aircraft engine! It still began work on its third album, Chain. But even that reunion was short-lived and soon Pylon 1979 dissolved.

After calling it quits a second time in 1991, many thought Pylon’s time in the spotlight was over.

But then the group exploded back on the scene with the now legendary secret show at Little Kings in 2004, kicking off an incredible five-year run.

Everything ended far too soon when guitarist Randy Bewley died suddenly in early 2009.

Though heartbroken, his friends finished worked. It was among the happiest moments work on the various projects that Bewley had of my life. I never ever thought that we would held dear, insuring his contributions would be ever play together again. I was as surprised as heard. Bewley’s guitar now shines on in both Supercluster’s debut, Waves, and the recent re- everyone else that it happened. issue of Pylon’s second album, Chomp More.

Least memorable show: Our last stop on As one of Athens’ biggest comeback stoa short northeastern tour in the fall of 2007 ries of the decade, we asked singer Vanessa to promote Gyrate Plus. I booked us into what Briscoe Hay and bassist Michael Lachowski to I thought was a Philadelphia club and which share some of their most memorable moments turned out to be a rock-and-roll-themed resof the ‘00s. taurant. We made the best of it, and so did our fans.

Vanessa Briscoe Hay

Best time at a show: Hearing the 20-something audience go bananas during the first chords of a Pylon song at the Part Time Punks Festival November, 2008. I found out later that the DJs who organized the festival had been playing Pylon during their sets for the last couple of months. When the L.A. kids heard us start playing this song, they suddenly realized that this was the band that they had been jamming on at the club.

Worst time at a show: Randy’s amp going kaput during AthFest 2005. Fortunately Bryan Poole wrangled one up from somewhere, and Michael was able to talk to the audience.

Single moment that defined this decade for Pylon: There is no one moment that could sum up everything. I am so glad that Pylon was able to be together and was able to actually perform again. It was nice to have a few small tours and to get up and have breakfast with the guys again. It was always our favorite meal of the day. I am also glad that my daughters Hana and Victoria had the opportunity to see Pylon perform live. We were always much better live than anything that we ever recorded. I am grateful to the DFA for reissuing our work and to friends like Paul Butchart, Jeff Calder, Maureen McLaughlin, Jennifer Blair, Philip Walden Jr., Garry Velletri, The B-52s, R.E.M., Hugo Burnham, Danny

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GIVE THE BEST GIFT UNDER THE TREE

Beard, Mike Turner and Rodney Mills for their help and support. I miss Randy tremendously, but I am grateful that we could reconnect as friends after all these years.

Michael Lachowski’s Most Memorable Moments:

1.

Aaron Wegelin contacted me and said he was in a band that wanted to do a show of Pylon covers. They were called Recent Title (after one of our songs), and I did the poster for the show. I was there with Curtis and Vanessa, having a blast and freaking out at the spectacle of having our music faithfully performed by others—a possibility that had never once crossed my mind. Mike Mills was teasing me about the bass. Fun! That was on Aug. 9, 2001.

2.

I was having an art opening at The Globe and Randy showed up out of the blue and reconnected with me after a long dry spell. Then he asked if I’d be up for relaunching Pylon. We worked it out where he asked Vanessa, and I asked Curtis. Soon we were at Nuçi’s Space trying to relearn our songs and each other.

3.

Curtis came to practice and said he was leaving in a week for Hawaii to direct construction for the TV show “Lost.” We decided to prematurely go public with our reformation, so I called Joey Tatum and asked if we could play at his brand-new bar the upcoming Thursday (which was later named Little Kings). I’d say that was the most memorable and one of the best live shows we’ve done.

4.

We were invited to play a one-day festival in L.A. last November, called Part Time Punks—which celebrates the post-punk era and sound. We stayed with our ex-manager Jennifer Blair in Echo Park, played nearby at the Echoplex, had so much fun being there and checking the other bands, then had one of the best performances and crowds of our career—just 13 months ago!

5.

I lost my twin and bandmate and band when Randy died this year. Randy gave me so much by getting me to form a band with him, and with all his guitar music, and all of his ideas and energy, and even allowing Pylon to happen again in this decade.

This was my best decade of Pylon—because it wasn’t expected, and because I can still taste it, and because I love Pylon.

WISH LIST: HOLIDAY BEERS LIQUOR GIFT SETS GIFT CERTIFICATES THE PERFECT WINE See Our Holiday Guide Write Up For More Ideas!

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Jordan Stepp

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

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A Holiday Happy Hour with

presents

Burnt Bacon Blues

•

R’n’B

•

Swamp

•

Jazz

•

Soul

•

Creole

Featuring: • • • • •

Oliver Wood (The Wood Brothers) Jon Liebman (The Electromatics) Chris Uhler (King Johnson) Dave Roth & very special guests

Thursday, Dec. 17, 6–9 p.m.

The Melting Point • $10 Happy Hour Show followed by Kate Morrissey & Ryan Monahan Show $5 Lisa Love, Editor of Georgia Music magazine, invites all our Athens area friends to a Holiday Happy Hour.

All proceeds benefit the Writers & Artists Fund for the non-profit magazine published by the Georgia Music Hall of Fame Foundation Inc. voted best burrito by Creative Loafing, Insite and Sunday Paper

burritonight?

Trivia night at Willy’s!

Join us for great fun and prizes Every Wed beginning at 8pm

we cater to a crowd!

www.willys.com 196 Alps Road Beechwood Promenade Mon – Sun, 11am - 10pm 706-548-1920

buy one get one 1/2 off expiration 1/31/10 • Willy’s Mexicana Grill

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call 706-548-1920 to place order

One coupon per customer per visit per offer. Not valid if sold, transferred or duplicated. Not valid for catering orders.

Cash value 1/100 of 1¢. Good only at Athens location. © 2009 Willy’s Mexicana Grill. Code: FP

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

Box It Up The Seaso n’s Best Bo x Sets!

T

he economy may have been in its worst recession since the Great Depression, but that didn’t stop record companies from putting out a bumper crop of box sets. Here’s a look at the best of the bunch, any of which would make great gifts this holiday season.

THE BEATLES

RICHARD THOMPSON

The Remastered Beatles Catalog Capitol

Walking on a Wire, 1968-2009 Shout Factory

In a busy year for special releases, there was no more celebrated or hyped event than the release of the entire and remastered Beatles catalog, which was released as box sets in stereo and mono and individually in stereo. Yes, the box sets are a bit pricey. But it’s worth every penny to finally hear with vivid clarity the 13 studio albums that make up what is still the greatest catalog of music from any act of the rock era. And for the technologically savvy, check out the innovative and gorgeously packaged appleshaped USB drive from EMI. Pull out the stem of the Granny Smith and you’ll find a drive filled with The Beatles’ 14 stereo titles, plus tons of visuals, rare photos, expanded liner notes and 13 mini-documentary films about the studio albums. Fully compatible with both PCs and Macs, this collection is as amazing to look at as it is to hear.

VARIOUS ARTISTS Woodstock—40 Years On: Back to Yasgur’s Farm Rhino

This six-CD set is simply the most complete audio document yet of Woodstock. It boasts 30-plus previously unheard performances, including a spunky version of “Bad Moon Rising” from Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Who storming through “Amazing Journey” and “Pinball Wizard,” and Joe Cocker rolling and tumbling through “Feelin’ Alright,” making it well worth its rather substantial price.

TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS Live Anthology Reprise

Anyone who has seen Petty and the Heartbreakers in concert knows this is one of rock’s very best live bands. This four-disc set spans performances from 1980 through 2007, and, as expected, there are stellar performances of many of the band’s hits. The Heartbreakers have also always had a special talent for covers, and Petty smartly included a generous number of outside tunes.

(Bo Diddley, Grateful Dead and Van Morrison are among those represented.) Still, even at 47 tracks, Live Anthology actually feels a bit thin.

How about a sequel, Mr. Petty?

Thompson may well be the most under-appreciated artist in all of rock. But this four-CD set is a great way to catch up. It traces Thompson’s entire four-decade career, offering a superb and thorough look at the genius of this gifted artist.

been the all-star band performances—no surprise considering where else will you see Bruce Springsteen and Mick Jagger trading vocals with Ringo Starr and George Harrison (among many others) playing behind them on The Beatles’ “I Saw Her Standing There”? Or how about Eddie Vedder joining R.E.M. for “Man on the Moon?” This threeDVD set assembles 43 such memorable musical moments—plus, as an extra treat, induction speeches and footage from rehearsals. This may

BIG STAR Keep an Eye on the Sky Rhino

Backtracks Columbia

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame & Museum Live Time/Life

The highlights of annual induction ceremonies for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have generally

This new four-CD set is hardly the first box set devoted to The King. And actually, the early 1990s sets, The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll (covering his 1950s output) and From Nashville to Memphis (devoted to the 1960s), remain the definitive sets. But if you want a full careerspanning collection, Elvis 75 is a good choice. It has all of Presley’s notable hits and a good sampling of the better album tracks from throughout his career.

Dolly RCA/Legacy

AC/DC

VARIOUS ARTISTS

ELVIS PRESLEY Elvis 75—Good Rockin’ Tonight RCA/Legacy

DOLLY PARTON

For a band that only released three studio albums, it’s pretty amazing to think that Big Star could justify a four-CD box set. But this is precisely the case with Keep an Eye on the Sky. Virtually every studio cut that made Big Star one of the most influential power pop bands in history is included, as are outtakes and a complete 1973 concert.

Despite the depth of this set, there is surprisingly little fat, just one pop thrill after another.

The venerable Australian band takes fans on a trip through its back pages with this set, available in two versions—the standard with a CD of studio rarities, a CD of live rarities and a DVD of videos, and a very worthy deluxe edition that features additional studio rarities, a second CD of live songs and a DVD of a 2003 concert from Germany. It’s telling that most of the material here is almost as essential as the band’s best albums.

active and vibrant ‘60s pop scene than Los Angeles.

not be quite like being there for the performances, but it’s not far off.

VARIOUS ARTISTS Where the Action Is: Los Angeles Nuggets—1965-1968 Rhino

The latest addition to the series of “Nuggets” box sets (devoted mostly to obscure pop gems from the mid-to-late-1960s) centers on one metropolitan area—Los Angeles.

Some acts included here will be familiar: The Doors, The Byrds and Warren Zevon, to name a few. Many other songs and bands are long forgotten. There are definitely some misses here. But there’s enough quality on Where the Action Is to suggest that few cities had a more

HALL & OATES Do What You Want, Be What You Are: The Music of Daryl Hall & John Oates RCA/Legacy

The best-selling duo in pop history, Hall & Oates has gotten a long-overdue box-set treatment.

The top-40 hits are all here, as are a number of unreleased live and studio tracks, making this box something special for long-time Hall & Oates devotees.

FRANK SINATRA New York Reprise

Four CDs and one DVD give a near-career-spanning survey of Sinatra in concert at several venues in his favorite town, New York City.

There are performances for each decade since the ‘50s. Throughout it all, Sinatra shows his mastery of jazz-inflected phrasing and his command of the live stage.

ROD STEWART The Rod Stewart Sessions 1971-1998 Warner Bros.

Forget the big hair and the bigger you-know-whats, this four-CD set proves that Parton is both an accomplished songwriter and a first-rate singer who was versatile enough to shift from pure country in the 1960s and ‘70s to the crossover sound of the ‘80s.

This four-CD set collects a bevy of alternate versions from Stewart’s vault of unreleased recordings.

Some songs (an alternate take of “Maggie May” with different lyrics) are mainly curiosities. But others, like the edgy “Innocent (The Killing of Georgie, Part III),” an unreleased sequel to “The Killing of Georgie” from the A Night on the Town album, are true finds.

THE DOORS

KENNY ROGERS

Live in New York Rhino

The First 50 Years Time Life

This six-disc set captures The Doors live with four complete concerts from January 1970. The band is especially energized during the two late-period shows included, as it runs through songs from its forthcoming Morrison Hotel album, some big hits and quite a few covers.

THE ROLLING STONES Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out: The Rolling Stones in Concert Abkco

This set adds five unreleased tracks to the famous original live album, as well as a disc documenting the performances from opening acts B.B. King and Tina Turner. It makes an already great live album even better, capturing The Stones, as well as King and Turner at their late-1960s peaks.

If you’re a fan of Kenny the crooner and his story songs like “The Gambler,” romantic ballads such as “She Believes in Me” and famous duets such as “Islands in the Stream” (with Dolly Parton), this three-CD set is for you. Three new songs included here are an extra bonus.

HANK WILLIAMS Revealed: The Unreleased Recordings Time Life

This three-CD set, a sequel to an earlier box set, The Unreleased Recordings, collects the best of the country legend’s performances on WSM radio in 1951. The songs, spiced with commentary from Williams, offer an up-close, authentic look at Williams at a late career peak.

Alan Sculley

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

23

record reviews THE LOVELY EGGS If You Were Fruit Happy Happy Birthday to Me

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This Lancaster, England male/ female, guitar/drums duo nearly sabotages If You Were Fruit by starting it off with the screeching and irritating “Sexual Cowboy.” The following track, “I Like Birds but I Like Other Animals, Too,” brings things into focus via fullon, mid-1990s pop dynamism (i.e., loud-quiet-loud), and this is where The Lovely Eggs begin to excel. The Lovely Eggs actually excel at two things: wellcrafted four-chord pop and achingly sensitive soft numbers. “Where’s My Animal?”, “If You Were Fruit” and “The Best Moon This Side of Town” exemplify the latter through tender instrumentation and barely-above-a-whisper vocals. The total heavy-metal-mixedwith-soft-indie-pop of “O Death” is really forgettable. Dammit if this album isn’t frustrating as hell. Nearly every other song is a pure gem, but they’ve cluttered it up so much with silliness and off-hand half thoughts that I feel like just programming my favorite tracks and skipping the rest.

Mind you, over half of this record is very, very good. And The Lovely Eggs are aesthetically together throughout the record because silliness is part and parcel of the band’s songwriting. I’m not much for comedy in rock and roll in the first place, and I realize I may be in the minority on this one. A lyric sheet would have been nice, too, because the band’s accents are pretty thick and occasionally impenetrable.

All that said, If You Were Fruit is the most representative album of the neo-C-86/DIY anglo-indie scene I’ve heard this year. Overall, it’s an aesthetic and ethic that’s worth embracing. You just might have to skip a few tracks to appreciate this manifestation of it.

Gordon Lamb

AARON JENTZEN Great Inventors Inferential Kid This five-song slice of Aaron

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FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

Jentzen’s voice is steady and assured in the lower registers, and his brand of pop isn’t exactly orchestral, but it’s heavily layered in a multi-instrumentalist’s dream. It’s intentionally textured throughout and completely thought-out. There are no accidents here.

The second track, “The Known World,” makes good use of Jentzen’s deliberate vocal pacing, and the urging in his voice matches the sweep of the tune nicely. He scores again on the fourth track, “People Like Us,” which utilizes sparse piano in its chorus but a full rhythm in its verses. A great addition to this EP would have been a lyric sheet as Jentzen’s voice functions not only as a relayer of lyrics but also as an instrument in its own right. It’d be nice to know exactly what he’s singing. His voice tends to be mixed equally with the instruments in too many parts.

Great Inventors has a few very good moments (the aforementioned and the fifth track, “Yesterday’s People”) but is hindered because, at EP length, there’s not enough of the great stuff to flesh it out. As such, it comes across as a shiny demo looking for soundtrack work.

Gordon Lamb

JULIAN CASABLANCAS Phrazes of the Young RCA The first song of Julian Casablancas’ solo bow Phrazes of the Young refrains: “Why can’t you ignore/ the things I did before?” It’s an interesting plea, considering that after two albums of diminishing returns, The Strokes never became the biggest band in the world, despite setting the agenda for a decade of me-too bands with an ear for minimal garage rock.

And Jules now lives in L.A., if you can’t tell from sunny-side-up single-of-theyear-finalist “11th Dimension.” Mr. “I-just-lied-to-get-to-your-apartment” also now has a wife and a kid on the way, if you can’t tell from the didactic phrases that he slings off throughout in his patented vibrato of bored-cool.

The set design here is dazzling, too, with elaborate electronic wizardry and elliptical riffs backdropping subversive genre exercises in synth-pop, gospel, new wave and folk. An example: off kilter, off-step bizarro centerpiece and country-song “Ludlow Street” analogizes wasted, whiskey-drunk picaresque with yuppycum-hipster-shit NYC gentrification, dangling the chorus with the Westernserial cliffhanger trope, “We’ll see soon enough!” Complete with banjo solo and an interstellar electro-Bollywood opening movement, the track is held together by Casablancas’ high and dry narrative that most closely parodies Johnny Cash. Strange. There are also serious nods to classical pianists, diluted pop-style, served up in a postmodernist vein not too dissimilar from Phoenix’s recent synth work in its aptly

titled Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix.

Complex stuff.

Sophisticated and completely original—and delivering an album that no one could have possibly expected— Casablancas’ clarity of vision combines a sense of music history with his oftcited talents of tricky lyricism, earworm hooks and infectious melodies. It’s very ADD, but Phrazes exudes the confidence of a classic album.

Christopher Joshua Benton

BLACK FEELINGS Black Feelings Alien8 This commanding debut by the Montreal trio is a writhing pit of postpunk bleakness, experimental tribalism, gothic darkness and cold-wave austerity. That may sound like a lot going on, but it all lines up in almost military-like formation and marches with a forceful sense of inevitability toward something intensely primordial. In effect, the fiercely percussive advance of Black Feelings storms through The Cure’s “The Hanging Garden” with the modern power of Liars. Canal-digging grooves, incantatory vocal drones and massive rises of guitar and synth commune in a rumble like some sort of black Mass.

It’s a pounding, sustained brand of intensity that induces a restless trance.

The impressively heavy “Hidden Dance” is as much mood as it is song, hanging in the air with an ominous sense of persistence and procession.

The groaning, subterranean undulations of “Golden Children” make an eerily ideal soundtrack for a rapturous group ceremony. And the aptly named “Eternal Bad Trip” is the musical expression of a boiling mental storm.

Dynamic, stirring and hypnotic, Black Feelings is the sound of an altered state, a sonic monolith that feels informed more by forces of nature than musical traditions.

Bao Le-Huu

ANIMAL COLLECTIVE Fall Be Kind EP Domino Animal Collective has become one of the most acclaimed bands in indie circles over the course of the last five years or so. For those unfamiliar with the group, the briefest possible description of its oeuvre is: experimental, predominantly electronic music with multiple vocal layers and “perfect percussion.”

With Fall Be Kind, the description still fits, even if it seems like the band is flirting with overzealously releasing material. The EP clocks in at 27:20 and contains some interesting segments to be sure, yet, one can’t help but wonder what exactly is fresh about this collection. Yes, experimentation is certainly present (several of the songs kind of switch from one idea to another at the halfway mark, which is a new approach), and, as usual, the roles of percussion and sampling have been pleasantly toyed with and inverted.

Tracks are anchored by repeating melodic themes then embellished with percussive elements, but this is standard Animal Collective. Also standard are multi-voice arrangements that come out damn lovely, but somewhere the magic (enthusiasm?) of pretty much every other Collective release has been diluted.

But Fall Be Kind still has a certain irresistibility that basically comes from the professional production. There is often so much going on in a given track that each listen offers a new vantage point, and every sound seems to have been enhanced with this in mind. If you only listen to one of these five tracks, make it “On a Highway;” it’s not the most danceable and upbeat, but it also seems to be the most earnest.

Tony Floyd

LUCERO 1372 Overton Park Universal Republic On their sixth studio album and major-label debut, the peerless altcountry rockers have taken a distinctly localized approach. Besides its name—which is the address of the loft where the band lived, practiced and recorded parts of 2003’s That Much Further West—this record delves lovingly into the rich soul tradition of their native Memphis. And though impressively extravagant, the garniture of horns and organs tends to blunt the typically lean poignancy of their searing punk soul, which is their currency and lifeblood. Still, the daring maturity here deserves much credit, and its contextual specificity gives it an undeniable soul. And, luckily, Ben Nichols’ defining, sui generis voice is hearty enough to anchor the luxe instrumentation and preserve the Lucero essence.

At its best on songs like “What Are You Willing to Lose” and the “Sounds of the City,” the robust arrangements work because the band’s big-hearted, interstate-loving drive is what pushes the action. The newfound robustness, however, provides welcome wingspan on slower ballads like “Hey Darlin’ Do You Gamble,” granting broader vista to the band’s signature heartbreak through tender pedal steel and organ crescendos.

Overton is a lush effort that marks expanded ambition and commendable reinvention for a group that’s maturing on an inevitable path toward countryrock legend.

Bao Le-Huu

the calendar!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEK

HOLIDAY DeadlinE: The deadline for getting listed in the Calendar will be WEDNESDAY, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. for the double issue of Dec. 23 & 30. Email calendar@flagpole.com.

Tuesday 15 EVENTS: Fuad Elhage (Casa Mia) Tango dancing! Bring a partner or make a new friend. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-227-4444 EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Choose unique gifts from the selection of cards, folk art, jewelry, pottery, knitted wear and more. Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 PERFORMANCE: Holiday Chorus (Borders Books & Music) The East Jackson High School Chorale, the Advanced Women’s Chorus and the Freshman Chorus perform two sets of holiday music. 4:30 & 5:30 p.m.

FREE! 706-583-8647 PERFORMANCE: Holiday Concert (UGA Hodgson Hall) A festive performance by the Georgia Children’s Chorus. 7 p.m. $5. 706-542-4400, www.georgiachildrenschorus.org PERFORMANCE: Holiday Concert (Oconee County Library) Local choral ensemble Arioso returns to treat you to beautiful classical and holiday music. 7 p.m. FREE! 706613-3650 LECTURES & LIT.: “What Is Solar Water Heating?” (ACC Library) Local green builder Tony Purcell discusses energy trends and the history, components and benefits of solar water heating. 7 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 MEETINGS: French Group (1000faces Coffee, 585 Barber Street) All-level French conversation group. Informal, welcoming and très bon! Every Tuesday.

7–8:30 p.m. FREE! 706-534-8860, www.1000facescoffee.com MEETINGS: Pub Theology (Trappeze Pub) Open conversations revolving around theology. Currently reading Marcus Borg and Dominic

Crossan’s The First Christmas. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-549-1915, cmccreight@fccathens.org GAMES: Board Game Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Choose from the classic assortment provided or bring your own! 6 p.m. FREE! www. myspace.com/flickerbar GAMES: Locos Trivia (Locos Grill & Pub) All three Athens locations of Locos Grill and Pub (Westside, Eastside and Harris St.) feature trivia night every Tuesday. 8:30 p.m.

FREE! www.locosgrill.com

Wednesday 16 EVENTS: Christmas Party (Roadhouse) Not a creature was stirring (not even a mouse!) until the party began at a bar called Roadhouse. Everyone’s invited to share in the food and festivities. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-613-2324 EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 EVENTS: New Cask Release (The Royal Peasant) Classic City Brew-Fest’s Owen Ogletree hosts an authentic UK-style cask. Enter free raffles for a chance to win beer, DVDs, beer chips and pint glasses.

5 p.m. 706-254-2739, www.classiccitybrew.com EVENTS: Signing and Singing (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Enjoy live performances from local school choirs, listen to an ensemble reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and meet six local authors, including Terry Kay, Gail Karwoski and Grady Thrasher, at this unique holiday lineup. Call for more information! 6–8 p.m. FREE! 7067694565, www.ocaf.com EVENTS: Wine Dinner (Speakeasy) Six courses paired with six wines.

Call for reservations. $40/person.

706-546-5556 ART: Opening Reception (Ciné Barcafé) For a collection of photographs by Christy Bush Fogarino documenting teenagers at rock concerts. 5:30–7:30 p.m, FREE! www. athenscine.com PERFORMANCE: Open Mic Poetry (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Hosted by Mr. Guppyfin. 11:30 p.m. www.myspace.com/flickerbar KIDSTUFF: Children’s Storytime (ACC Library) For children ages 18 months to 5 years. Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m., Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 KIDSTUFF: Eatin’ with the Critters (Sandy Creek Nature Center, ENSAT) Bring a sack lunch for an hour of learning about our world and the animals that inhabit it. For ages 3–5 with an adult. Call to register. 11 a.m.–noon, $0–$13 (scholarships available). 706-613-3615 KIDSTUFF: Kids Christmas Party (East Athens Community Center) Let loose with some of your holiday energy at this evening of arts and crafts, games and a visit from YOUKNOW-WHO (white beard, belly, funny hat)! For kindergarteners through fifth graders. 5–6:30 p.m. $3. 706-613-3593 KIDSTUFF: Wildcard Wednesday for Teens (ACC Library) Up next: Origami Boxes. Ages 11–18. Space is limited. 4 p.m. FREE! 706-6133650 MEETINGS: American Sign Language Study Group (Cups Coffee Café) All skill levels welcome. Come once or come weekly.

Newcomers welcome! 7–8 p.m.

FREE! www.myspace.com/aslstudygroup MEETINGS: Library Sewing Group (Madison County Library) Currently crocheting with double-ended crochet needles. Newcomers welcome.

1–3 p.m. FREE! 706-795-5597

Christy Bush Fogarino’s photography is part of her exhibit “Soundtrack to Nothing” at Ciné.

MEETINGS: Sitting Meditation Group (Mind Body Institute) Silent meditation every Wednesday. Noon.

FREE! 706-475-7329 GAMES: Dart League (Alibi) Every Wednesday! Bikers welcome. 8 p.m.

FREE! 706-549-1010 GAMES: Movie Trivia Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Where movie trivia meets performance art. Hosted by “It Boy” Jeff Tobias and sponsored by Vision Video. Prizes! Sign up at 8 p.m. Trivia starts at 8:30 p.m.

FREE! www.myspace.com/flickerbar GAMES: Sports Trivia (Beef ‘O’ Brady’s) Every Wednesday. 8:30 p.m.

FREE! 706-850-1916 GAMES: Trivia (Willy’s Mexicana Grill) Every Wednesday. 8–10 p.m.

FREE! 706-548-1920 GAMES: Trivia (Blind Pig Tavern) Think you know it all? 9:30 p.m.

706-548-3442 GAMES: Trivia Wars (283 Bar) Chris Creech hosts general knowledge trivia with different themes each week. Check the Facebook group “Trivia Wars!” for weekly updates and online question of the week.

8:30 p.m. (sign up) 9 p.m. (game starts). FREE! 706-208-1283

Thursday 17 Hope For Agoldensummer is playing at Flicker Theatre on Saturday, Dec. 19.

EVENTS: BikeAthens Art Bash (The Globe, Upstairs) Bid on local art inspired by alternative transportation in this silent auction and mixer!

6–10 p.m. FREE! www.bikeathens. com EVENTS: BikeAthens Art Bash Kickoff (The Classic Center) BikeAthens and the Classic Center Cultural Foundation bring utilitarian art to the public, unveiling two newly designed bike racks by Mike Ely and Joshua Jordan. Then, wheel on over to The Globe where the afterparty begins with a silent art auction. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.bikeathens.com EVENTS: Dessert Social and Art Reception (Main Street Yarns, 100 S. Barnett Shoals Rd.) Main Street Yarns hosts a dessert social alongside a reception for “Creepy and Cute at Christmas,” an exhibit featuring paintings, shadowboxes, marionettes and more by local artist Cindy Jerrell. 5–9 p.m. 706-7695531, www.mainstreetyarns.com EVENTS: Holiday Happy Hour (The Melting Point) Georgia Music Magazine hosts a holiday happy hour with Burnt Bacon. Proceeds benefit the Writers & Artists Fund for the non-profit magazine. 6–8 p.m. $10. www.meltingpoint.com EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 EVENTS: Holiday Open House (Georgetown Frames, 50 Gaines School Rd.) Local holiday arts and crafts abound! Get some shopping done or just enjoy the live music

and refreshments. 6–8 p.m. FREE! 706-549-3674 PERFORMANCE: Aerial Dance Recital (Canopy Studio) Canopy’s intermediate class performs a winter recital. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-549-8501, www.canopystudio.com KIDSTUFF: An Evening on The Polar Express (Winterville Library) Join the Winterville Library Board when they host a magical reading of The Polar Express and warm up with hot chocolate and treats! 6 p.m.

FREE! 706-742-7735 KIDSTUFF: Children’s Book Award Program for Home School Students (ACC Library, Storyroom) Discuss the nominations for the Georgia Children’s Book Award. For first through fifth graders. 3:30–4:30 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 KIDSTUFF: Homeschoolers Chapter Book Review (Madison Baptist Church) Elementary schoolage homeschoolers gather at the library to read a book together and talk about it. Every Thursday. 1 p.m.

FREE! 706-795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Merry Christmas Origami (Madison County Library) Use festive paper to make ornaments, boxes and more! For ages 9 and up. Dec. 17, 6:30 p.m. FREE! 706-795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Open Playtime (ACC Library) For children ages 1–3 with their caregivers. 10 a.m. FREE! 706613-3650 k continued on page 27

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

25

Eat. Drink. Listen Closely.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16

BURNING ANGELS w/ 90 ACRE FARM

Tickets $5

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 Georgia Music Magazine Holiday Happy Hour featuring

BURNT BACON

(featuring Oliver Wood (The Wood Brothers, King Johnson), Jon Liebman (The Electromatics), Chris Uhler (King Johnson) and veteran stand-up bassist Dave Roth) $10 Donation • Music 6-9pm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17

KATE MORRISSEY

RYAN MONAHAN

Tickets $5 • Music starts at 9pm

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18

SONS OF SAILORS

(featuring members of the TONY PRITCHETT BAND) Tickets $10 adv. • $13 at the door

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 Athens’ Original

RACK OF SPAM ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOW Tickets $10 adv. • $13 at the door

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26

RANDALL BRAMBLETT BAND Tickets $12 adv. • $15 at the door

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31

MARDI GRAS N E W Y E A R ’S E V E featuring

BONERAMA

and LIL’ BRYAN AND THE ZYDECO TRAVELERS Big Easy VIP Packages Available Call 706-549-7020

FRIDAY, JANUARY 8

CAROLINA CHOCOLATE DROPS Tickets $15 adv. • $20 at the door

SATURDAY, JANUARY 9

Georgia Theatre Benefit

KINCHAFOONEE COWBOYS Tickets $12 adv. • $15 at the door

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20 GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

LEO KOTTKE

Tickets $35 adv. • $40 at the door

TROMBONE SHORTY

THURSDAY, JANUARY 21

AND ORLEANS AVENUE Tickets $12 adv. • $15 at the door

COMING SOON LOCATED ON THE GROUNDS OF

1/22 - MOUNTAIN HEART, TOWN MOUNTAIN 1/29 - SUPERCLUSTER, MAGNAPOP, FLASH TO BANG TIME 2/4 - TAB BENOIT 2/6 - OWL CITY with LIGHTS & DEAS VAIL (SOLD OUT) 2/13 - FRANCINE REED 2/17 - BRANDI CARLILE, AMY RAY’S ROCK SHOW 2/27 - DIRK HOWELL BAND

295 E. DOUGHERTY ST., ATHENS, GA

706.254.6909

WWW.MELTINGPOINTATHENS.COM

FOR TICKETS & SHOWTIMES OR CALL THE BOX OFFICE 706.254.6909

26

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

THE CALENDAR! KIDSTUFF: Presents for Pets (Oconee County Library) Help bring some warmth to our homeless animal friends this season by making toys, treats and stockings for the local animal shelters. For ages 11–18.

5 p.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Tikes, Trikes and Strollers: Winter Wonderland (Greenway) Bundle up your toddlers for a brief nature walk! Reward yourselves for braving the cold with hot chocolate, refreshments, crafts and games. Call to register. 1–2:30 p.m. $2. 706-613-3615, www.athensgreenway.com KIDSTUFF: Youth Christmas Party (Lay Park) Activities include a visit from Santa, games, refreshments and goody bags. For ages 12 and under. 5 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3596 MEETINGS: Athens Homebrewers Club (Cups Coffee Café) Club dedicated to the enjoyment of beers, meads and ciders as well as the advancement of brewing knowledge through education. New and experienced brewers welcome. Don’t forget to bring a glass! 6:30 p.m. www. athenshomebrewers.com

Friday 18 EVENTS: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Daddi’s House, 73 E. North Ave., Comer) Catch a screening of Tim Burton’s 2005 remake of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book. 7 p.m. FREE! 706-797-2035 EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts

Thursday, Dec. 17 continued from p. 25

and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 EVENTS: Holiday Sneak Peak (Flora Hydroponics) Check out what’s new with the Sacred Earth Growers Co-Op. Find gifts for your favorite gardeners, pesticide-free produce and naturally grown dairy and meats. Dec. 18 & 19, 2–7 p.m.

FREE! 706-353-2223 KIDSTUFF: Elves Workshop (Sandy Creek Park) Youngsters are invited to join elves at the park’s workshop and make some lastminute holiday gifts. Open to ages 5–12. Call to register. 3:30–6 p.m. $8. 706-613-3631.

KIDSTUFF: Japanese Storytime (ACC Library, Storyroom) Led

by Hijiri Hattori, Japan Outreach Coordinator for Asian Studies with UGA. 5 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 KIDSTUFF: Music, Art and Drama (Madison County Library) Miss Debbie conducts creative free-for-all sessions for children big and small.

Act, paint or explore your other talents! 11:30 a.m.–noon (toddlers and kindergarteners), 1–1:30 p.m. (children and tweens). FREE! 706795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Preschool & Toddler Storytime (Madison County Library) This month’s themes are the letter C, author and illustrator Jean deBrunhoff and Christmas! For kids ages 2 to 5. 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706795-5597 MEETINGS: Drinking Liberally (Little Kings Shuffle Club) Informal, inclusive and progressive social group that gives left-leaning indi-

viduals a chance to talk politics.

First and third Fridays of every month. 6:30 p.m. athens@drinkingliberally.org

Saturday 19 EVENTS: Monty Python and the Holy Grail (Daddi’s House) Whether its your first time or your 40th, join the Monty Python league in their 1975 side-splitting and gutbusting quest for the Holy Grail. 7 p.m. FREE! 706-797-2035 EVENTS: Adoption Day (Pet Supplies Plus) Local animal rescue organizations bring their pups out for a chance at finding a home. Love connections made every Saturday!

11 a.m.–3 p.m. 706-353-0650 EVENTS: Christmas Party (Alibi) Jump on the holiday party circuit and celebrate with food, music and a gift exchange! FREE! 706-549-1010 EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 EVENTS: Holiday Sneak Peak (Flora Hydroponics) Check out what’s new with the Sacred Earth Growers Co-Op. See Dec. 18 Events.

Dec. 18 & 19, 2–7 p.m. FREE! 706353-2223 EVENTS: Red and Green Senior Fling (Columbus Avenue Senior Center, Columbus Ave. off of Baxter St.) Senior adults ages 55 and over are invited to this holiday party.

Delicious holiday food, festive music, a white elephant gift exchange and great company! 5–7:30 p.m.

FREE! 706-613-3603

The t

Theatre Gift Certificates Make G eat Gifts!

LIVE ON STAGE

The Wedding Singer Wednesday, January 27

Shell

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George Jones Friday, February 5

The

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Shelly Garrett’s Beauty Shop Saturday, February 27

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance Tuesday, March 2

Charlotte’s Web Thursday, April 8

k continued on next page

Thursday, December 17

Rusko

Lipizzaner Stallions (Grand Hall) Sunday, April 18

New Earth Music Hall Dubstep 101: Rusko is huge. When his name is mentioned in matterof-fact passing to the kid who works in the kitchen at the bar where I sling beers, it’s quickly determined: the UK-based DJ (born Christopher Mercer) is a digital pioneer, and his performance at New Earth Music Hall is kind of a big deal. Without hyperbole, Rusko is one of the most popular artists in the world. Perhaps that’s why, despite repeated attempts, his handlers decided against (even responding to our request for) an interview. The hard-hitting questions Flagpole readers want answered will have to wait—at least for answers from Rusko himself. Rather than piecemeal a story from Wikipedia entries, rephrased Pitchfork profiles and first impressions from MySpace video views and listens, we decided to discuss the enigmatic artist and dubstep with the kid from the kitchen.

What is dubstep? “The wobble and the grimy deep bass, a much deeper, prolonged— wa-wa-wa-wa-wa. Sometimes it’s trance-y,” he says, adding, “Sometimes it’s ambient.

Sometimes it’s psychedelic. Sometimes it’s breakbeat and hip-hop…” And what do these 140 BPM music-makers rely on to hone their craft? “You’re going to need DJ skills, of course, turntables—and they all have laptops with Ableton and Reactor, and there’s all kinds of software they use to manipulate the sound. They have bit crushers; they have everything you can think of that’s electronic, that’s not an instrument, that produces sound—that’s what they want,” says my cook-in-the-know dubstep source. “They don’t care about guitars anymore; they want to play a computer.” For the record (and the curious) a bit crusher, as defined by online source KVR Audio is, “An audio-processing effect which relies on the fact that reducing the bit depth of a sample introduces quantization distortion.”

Naturally drugs help, right? “It enhances it completely. It’s amazing what they can do,” he shares candidly (and anonymously). The musicians, or the drugs? “The combination! I’m only speaking from personal experience. I think there’s something less organic about this scene, and when you’re taking chemicals…” [David Eduardo]

Cirque Le Masque: Evolution Tuesday, April 27

Call, click or stop by the Box Office 706.357.4444 • www.ClassicCenter.com 300 N. Thomas St. • Downtown Athens

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

27

THE CALENDAR! ART: Holiday Market (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Local artists and crafters set up shop to sell their wares–all local, all handmade. Warm up with a hot toddy or spiced cider and find the perfect gifts for your favorite people this holiday season!

Tasty pies and Polish edibles, knitted creations for creatures big and small, scented soaps, unique jewelry and more. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. www. myspace.com/flickerbar PERFORMANCE: Athens Master Chorale (UGA Hodgson Hall) The AMC will be joined by an orchestra for their performance of Handel’s Messiah in this Christmas season concert. 8 p.m. $10, $5 (students).

706-542-4400, www.athensmasterchorale.org PERFORMANCE: Triple Velcro (Caledonia Lounge) Comedy duo feature D.J. Hammond and Chris “Rippy” McElveen. Reuniting tonight for the first time in a while! XXXmas Celebration. 10 p.m. www.caledonialounge.com KIDSTUFF: Breakfast with Santa (Memorial Park) Santa is terribly busy this time of year, but he knows how important breakfast is. Join him for crafts, activities and photos! Call to sign up. 8, 9 & 10 a.m. $6. 706613-3580 KIDSTUFF: Breakfast with the Grinch (Rocksprings Park) He’ll be posing for pictures with kids, whether he likes it or not. Ages 10 & under. Registration required. 10 a.m. $2. 706-613-3603 KIDSTUFF: Nature Trading Post (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Program intended to encourage personal nature exploration and raise awareness about ecological connections among young collectors. Participants earn points for their collected items (shells, rocks, animal bones, etc.). The points can be banked or used to trade for another object from the Nature Center’s Trading Post. Kids, bring an adult to participate! 11 a.m.–noon, FREE! 706-613-3615 LECTURES & LIT.: Book Signing (Borders Books & Music) Atlanta author Violette L. Reid talks about sorcery, slaughter and inner conflicts in her science fiction/fantasy novel, The First Chronicle of Zayashariya: Out of Night. 1 p.m. FREE! 706583-8647 LECTURES & LIT.: Book Signing (Borders Books & Music) Retired UGA Vice President for Public Service and Outreach Dr. Gene Younts speaks about his new book, Back on the Bus: Twelve Hundred Miles Through Georgia. 3 p.m.

FREE! 706-583-8647

Sunday 20 LECTURES & LIT.: Book Signing (Borders Books & Music) Children’s author and pre-K teacher Amanda Rochwick is out to inspire with her work, Little Bulldog, Big Dreams. 1 p.m. FREE! 706-583-8647 LECTURES & LIT.: Book Signing (Borders Books & Music) Members from the Jeanette Rankin Foundation discuss their first book, Daring to Dream. 3 p.m. FREE! 706-583-8647 GAMES: Full-Contact Trivia (Allen’s Bar & Grill) Sports-themed rules with diverse categories. 9 p.m.

FREE! www.allensbarandgrill.com

Monday 21 KIDSTUFF: Bedtime Stories (ACC Library) Every Monday. 7 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650

28

Saturday, Dec. 19 continued from p. 27

KIDSTUFF: Happy Holidays: School’s Out! (Memorial Park) Make crafts and snacks and play games at the zoo! Program relates to Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s Day festivities. Register for Dec. 21 and/or Dec. 22 by Dec. 17.

9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $15/day. 706-6133580, www.accleisureservices.com LECTURES & LIT.: Book Signing (Borders Books & Music) Local author Janice Pulliam discusses adoption, mother-daughter relationships, love and friendship in her first novel, Falling Through the Cracks. 4 p.m. FREE! 706-583-8647.

GAMES: “20 Questions at Transmet” (Transmetropolitan, Downtown) General trivia. Topics include sex, music, movies, science, history and much more. Check the Facebook Group “20 questions at Transmet” for weekly themes and the online question of the week. Every Monday. 8:30–10 p.m. FREE! 706613-8773 GAMES: Ping Pong (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Get your paddle ready for a riveting round of table tennis. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.myspace.com/ flickerbar GAMES: Pool Tournament (Alibi) Win prizes every Monday! 8 p.m.

FREE! 706-549-1010 GAMES: Team Trivia (Beef ‘O’ Brady’s) Get a team together and test your knowledge. Every Monday!

8:30 p.m. FREE! 706-850-1916 GAMES: Trivia (Alibi) Every Monday!

9 p.m. FREE! 706-549-1010

Tuesday 22 EVENTS: Star Wars Holiday Party (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Join Bea Arthur, Harrison Ford and the gang for a screening of the 1978 madefor-TV Star Wars Holiday Special.

Learn how cultures across the galaxy celebrate the season when you go home for the holidays with Chewbacca. FREE! www.myspace. com/flickerbar EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 EVENTS: Invasive Crafts Program (Greenway) Learn why kudzu, privet and honeysuckle aren’t really your friends. Then, make crafts out of specimens harvested from the Greenway! For all ages. Call to register. 10 a.m.–noon. $2. 706613-3615 EVENTS: Last Minute Gifts (Madison County Library) Never fear; the library is here! Supplies, instruction and inspiration available to all ages. Dec. 22, 6:30 p.m. & Dec. 23, 4 p.m. FREE! 706-795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Parkview Express (Parkview Community Center) All aboard! If you are looking for some adventure this holiday season, hop aboard the Parkview Express! Share Christmas treats, work on holiday crafts, participate in a candy cane hunt and enter a raffle to win a copy of The Polar Express. For kids ages 3–12. 5–7 p.m. $3. 706-613-3602, www.accleisureservices.com KIDSTUFF: Happy Holidays: School’s Out! (Memorial Park) Register for Dec. 21 and/or Dec. 22

by Dec. 17. See Dec. 21 Kidstuff. 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $15/day. 706-6133580, www.accleisureservices.com KIDSTUFF: White Buffalo’s Christmas for Children (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) Buffalo’s has been on Santa’s nice list this year, so expect him in attendance at this holiday party! Select a gift idea from the

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

Buffalo’s tree and bring it in by Dec. 20 or just chat with Santa. Call or stop by for more information! 6 p.m.

FREE! 706-354-6655 LECTURES & LIT.: Book Signing (Borders Books & Music) Children’s author Helen H. Kimbrough’s new book, Play Dates and Other Tales, includes four short stories, beautiful illustrations and a musical CD. 1 p.m. FREE! 706-583-8647 GAMES: Locos Trivia (Locos Grill & Pub) All three Athens locations of Locos Grill and Pub (Westside, Eastside and Harris St.) feature trivia night every Tuesday. 8:30 p.m.

FREE! www.locosgrill.com

Wednesday 23 EVENTS: Holiday Market (Lyndon House Arts Center) Peruse fine arts and crafts from more than 80 artists!

Through Jan. 2, Tuesday–Saturday, noon–5 p.m. 706-613-3623 EVENTS: Last Minute Gifts (Madison County Library) Never fear; the library is here! Supplies, instruction and inspiration available to all ages. Dec. 22, 6:30 p.m. & Dec. 23, 4 p.m. FREE! 706-795-5597 EVENTS: Movie Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) After movie trivia winds down, join Will Chamberlain as he hosts a screening of the heartwarming 1984 slasher flick, Silent Night, Deadly Night. 11:30 p.m.

FREE! www.myspace.com/flickerbar KIDSTUFF: Cookies for Santa (Lay Park) Decorate cookies to put out for Santa on his big day, but be sure to keep a few for yourself. Register by Dec. 18. 3 p.m. $1. 706-613-3596 KIDSTUFF: Santa’s Workshop (Broadacres Community Center) It’s not child labor if it’s fun! Kids ages 3–12 are invited to help Santa with some last-minute chores. Fill in for Santa’s depleted elf workforce and help feed the reindeer, decorate cookies, stuff the stockings and hang the lights! Call to register. 4–6 p.m. $3. 706-613-3603, www.accleisureservices.com MEETINGS: Sitting Meditation Group (Mind Body Institute) Silent meditation every Wednesday. Noon.

FREE! 706-475-7329 GAMES: Dart League (Alibi) Every Wednesday! Bikers welcome. 8 p.m.

FREE! 706-549-1010 GAMES: Movie Trivia Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Where movie trivia meets performance art. Hosted by “It Boy” Jeff Tobias and sponsored by Vision Video. Prizes! Sign up at 8 p.m. Trivia starts at 8:30 p.m.

FREE! www.myspace.com/flickerbar GAMES: Sports Trivia (Beef ‘O’ Brady’s) Every Wednesday. 8:30 p.m.

FREE! 706-850-1916 GAMES: Trivia (Willy’s Mexicana Grill) Every Wednesday. 8–10 p.m.

FREE! 706-548-1920 GAMES: Trivia (Blind Pig Tavern) Think you know it all? 9:30 p.m.

706-548-3442 GAMES: Trivia Wars (283 Bar) Chris Creech hosts general knowledge trivia with different themes each week. Check the Facebook group “Trivia Wars!” for weekly updates and online question of the week.

8:30 p.m. (sign up) 9 p.m. (game starts). FREE! 706-208-1283 * Advance Tickets Available

Down the Line MEETINGS: Athens Green Drinks 12/29 (Farm 255) An informal mixer for green-minded folks to discuss building, transportation and other sustainability issues in the Athens area. 6–8 p.m. www.athensgreendrinks.org

Saturday, December 19

Peachs Go Bar

Peachs is a doom metal band from right here in Athens. It takes pages from the books of Black Sabbath, Sleep and Om and spins them into chapters of brutal sludge. Flagpole recently caught up with drummer Navid Amlani.

Flagpole: How do you respond to accusations that your band name is a cynical ploy to piggyback on the success of Peaches, the indie rapper?

Navid Amlani: I categorically deny any such allegations.

FP: She clearly was around before you guys were.

NA: We honestly didn’t think about it. Honestly.

FP: You’d never heard of her.

NA: Nah, we’d heard of her; we just didn’t think about it. It just didn’t occur to us.

FP: So, are you basically saying that you find her music to be irrelevant and off the cultural radar?

NA: I don’t think that’s exactly what I was saying. I was saying that it just isn’t particularly relevant to us. Whether it has any cultural relevance was never a subject of debate for us. We decided that since we couldn’t come up with anything better that we all liked and were into, we’d just go with it, altered slightly to avoid lawsuits.

FP: How do you respond to allegations that your band name is a cynical ploy to piggyback on the success of Peaches, the soul food establishment?

NA: There was no malicious or cynical intent on any of our parts with regard to the band name. It’s there just because we thought it was funny; it entertained us, and we went with it. That’s all there is to it. There’s no deeper meaning therein.

FP: Okay. So you have no intention of starting a beef with Peaches the rapper or Peaches the restaurant in print?

NA: Absolutely not.

FP: …could you?

NA: Wait, what?

FP: I kind of wish you did.

NA: Yeah, well, I’m sorry, we’re not around for your entertainment in that regard. We only want to play music.

FP: Well… thank you very much.

NA: Is that it? Seriously?

FP: Uh… what are your influences?

[Jeff Tobias]

OUTDOORS: Blue Full Moon Hike 12/31 (Greenway) Once in a blue moon, you may actually see a blue moon; now is your chance! The next blue moon won’t occur until 2012, so don’t miss out. 6–8 p.m. $2. 706613-3615 EVENTS: Balance Open House 1/10 (Balance Pilates and Wellness Studio, 160-1 Tracy St.) Meet with instructors and learn about the studio’s various offerings, including nutrition classes, group walks and Pilates classes. 3–4 p.m. FREE! 706-546-1061, www.balancepilatesathens.com MEETINGS: Antarctica Expedition Informational Reception 1/10 (Call for location) The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UGA is organizing a trip to Antarctica, South Georgia Island and the Falkland Islands in January of 2011. The focus of the trip is to develop an understanding of the Antarctic environment and the adaptations plants and animals undergo for survival. 6 p.m.

FREE! 706-549-7350, olli.uga.edu EVENTS: Henry D. Green Symposium 1/29 (UGA Center for Continuing Education) The Georgia Museum of Art hosts the Henry D. Green Symposium of the Decorative Arts in its fifth year: “Neighboring Voices: The Decorative Culture of Our Southern Cousins.” Following a tour of five historic houses in Athens, Robert A. Leath will deliver a lecture on early decorative arts in the South. Register by Jan. 15. 706542-4662, www.uga.edu/gamuseum * Advance Tickets Available

Live Music Tuesday 15 283 Bar 10 p.m. 706-208-1283 DANCE PARTY A birthday blowout for Alfredo and Stan! “The dance floor will be at DEF CON 5.”

Alibi 9 p.m. FREE! 706-549-1010 KARAOKE With the singing cowboy.

Caledonia Lounge 9:30 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www. caledonialounge.com CALLOOH! CALLAY! Indie rock from Tuscaloosa with a folk bent, a la Fleet Foxes.

FIRE ZUAVE Dreamy, fun psych-pop based here in town.

The Melting Point 7 p.m. $3. www.meltingpointathens. com NORTH GEORGIA BLUEGRASS BAND An eclectic blend of traditional and contemporary acoustic music. Part of Melting Point’s weekly bluegrass series, the Terrapin Tuesday Bluegrass Series.

New Earth Music Hall 9:30 p.m. www.newearthmusichall.com MEAN MIC: END OF YEAR BASH Freestyle rap battle and a special grudge match beat battle. Hosted

by Elite tha Showstoppa and DJ Infamy with a special guest

performance from Greg Street, one of the biggest DJs in Atlanta!

Appearances by Prynce and Pill.

Tasty World Uptown 10 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/tastyworlduptown THE RON JOHNSONS Brand-new progressive rock band that incorporates Latin and jazz influences.

Wednesday 16 Caledonia Lounge 10 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www.caledonialounge.com LIONZ Southern jam-rock.

THIEVES MARKET Local alternative rock band.

THE WOODGRAINS Austin, TX foursome that mixes electronic sounds with metal drums.

Casa Mia 7 p.m. FREE! 706-227-4444 LUDWIG PORRAS Latin and Flamenco guitar.

Go Bar 10 p.m. FREE! www.myspace.com/ gobar DJS RAPEDOGG Local rockers Jeff Rapier and Zack “Z-Dogg” Hosey make up this rad DJ duo, spinning dance classics, punk, ‘80s and more.

The Melting Point 9 p.m. $5. www.meltingpointathens. com 90 ACRE FARM This acoustic trio from Watkinsville plays original Americana and covers.

THE BURNING ANGELS New local act that plays Americana soul.

Featuring Natalie Garcia on vocals and guitar Mark Cunningham on vocals, guitar and dobro, Josh Westbrook on drums and appearances by Adam Poulin on fiddle and Matt Dyson on dobro and banjo.

New Earth Music Hall 9 p.m. FREE! www.newearthmusichall. com HUMP DAY PARTY DJs from all the scenes come together for an “openended party.”

The Office Lounge 9:30 p.m. FREE! 706-549-0840 KARAOKE Every Wednesday with Lynn!

Rye Bar 10 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/ryebarathens BROCK BUTLER AND FRIENDS Perpetual Groove frontman weaves complex, inspired, loop-based soul jams.

Tasty World Uptown 8 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/tastyworlduptown JOSHUA WESTBROOK Local rock musician known for his work behind the drums in such bands as Hills Rolling.

Thursday 17 40 Watt Club 9 p.m. $6. www.40watt.com JOSH PERKINS EXPERIMENT IN SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY Longtime local songwriter Josh Perkins leads his group through original country, folk and Americana sounds.

BAIN MATTOX Multi-instrumental Athens singer/songwriter offers audiences acoustic-based college rock that’s both emotionally direct and emphatically heart-turning. This is a solo performance.

MR. FALCON High-energy, indie garage rock influenced equally by The Kinks and Pixies.

Alibi Thursdays, FREE! 706-549-1010 OPEN MIC/JAM Hosted by members of The Rattlers. Open to all musicians.

Allen’s Bar & Grill 8 p.m. FREE! www.allensbarandgrill. com KIP JONES Many of Jones’ tunes split between the reflective acoustic territory of Harvest-era Neil Young and the country-infused rock of ‘80s-era Steve Earle.

Caledonia Lounge 10 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www.caledonialounge.com OMEGA RISING Local hard rock outfit that plays alternative-sounding rock and roll informed by metal influences.

RADIOLUCENT Local band Radiolucent falls somewhere between bluesy Southern rock and the poppier side of alt-country.

VICTOR CHARLIE Alt-rock with grunge and metal influences.

Reunited after four years apart with a new lineup!

Farm 255 11 p.m. FREE! www.farm255.com MAPS AND TRANSIT Featuring Kyle Dawkins of Georgia Guitar Quartet, this local instrumental duo creates diverse soundscapes using a wide range of instrumentation–from the more traditional guitar and mandolin to experimental sounds made by radios or kitchen implements.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/flickerbar ECHO CANYON Local trio of Jim Wilson, Chuck Bradburn and Craig Lieske plays experimental music that is playful yet demanding with an otherworldly, delicate feel that evolves into metal power.

JEF AND CHIP Jef Whatley and Chip McKenzie of local garage rock band Still, Small Voice and the Joyful Noise perform as a duo.

Go Bar 11:30 p.m. FREE! www.myspace.com/ gobar “DR. FRED’S KARAOKE” Hosted by karaoke fanatic John “Dr. Fred” Bowers, every Thursday.

The Melting Point GA Music Magazine Holiday Happy Hour! 6 p.m. $10. www.meltingpointathens.com BURNT BACON Veteran Atlanta musicians who play a mix of blues, R&B, country and New Orleans jazz promise a musical journey through some of the styles that make the music of the South unique. Tonight’s show is a fundraiser for writers and artists of the non-profit GA Music Magazine.

9 p.m. $5. www.meltingpointathens. com RYAN MONAHAN Local musician who performs Brit-pop influenced indie-folk-rock, with impressive, Buckley-esque vocal prowess.

KATE MORRISSEY Best known throughout this corridor for her dark velvet voice that stands on its own, Morrissey’s songwriting is literate and sincere, and her conversational live shows come punctuated with an offbeat sense of humor.

New Earth Music Hall 9 p.m. $12 (adv), $15 (door). www. newearthmusichall.com RUSKO This UK artist is one of the most highly acclaimed masters of dubstep. See Calendar Pick on p. 27.

The Office Lounge 8 p.m. FREE! 706-546-0840 KARAOKE CONTEST Every Thursday with Ken! Rye Bar 9:30 p.m. $3. www.myspace.com/ ryebarathens “MAN GAVE NAMES TO ALL THE ANIMALS” Songwriter night featuring Efren, Eric Carter and David Nickle (Bloodkin), Shauna Greeson (Hola Halo), David Sturgis (Five-Eight), Joe Chalmers (Animals That Will Kill Yer Ass) and Jonathan Brill (Efren, Sweet Knievel).

Terrapin Beer Co. 5:30 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com CELL FEHRENBACH Acoustic folk that is hard-hitting, emotional and often funny.

Friday 18 283 Bar 11 p.m. FREE! 706-208-1283 EASYRIDER “Piloting the dance floor to party island.”

DJ MAHOGANY Freaky funk, sultry soul, righteous R&B, and a whole lotta unexpected faves as DJ Mahogany dips into his bag of goodies from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Dance party begins after the live music.

40 Watt Club 40 Watt Christmas Party! 9 p.m. $6. www.40watt.com TIMI CONLEY The current Kite to the Moon frontman and ex-Fuzzy Sprout

will play new tunes off his new solo record Nerd Sexy.

IBILISI TAKEDOWN This Athens band plays energetic Southern rock and sultry blues punctuated by fiddle, harmonica and guitar.

KAITLIN JONES AND THE COUNTY FAIR Local folk guitarist/ vocalist Kaitlin Jones’ five-piece electric band performs a set of Americana-tinged tunes that feature guitars, bass, drums and keys.

LONA The flagship band for local songwriter, guitarist and drummer Clay Leverett (The Chasers, Now It’s Overhead, Bright Eyes). The band sends out more than a little country and more than enough gutsy, midtempo rock.

Alibi 9 p.m. FREE! 706-549-1010 FORWARD MOTION Rock covers and originals.

You are invited to

Blue Christmas

A Service of Comfort, Hope and Reconciliation

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 • 7pm Let’s pray together that

Peace will enter your heart this Christmas

Borders Books & Music 6:30 p.m. FREE! 706-583-8647.

THE SOLSTICE SISTERS Three-part vocal harmonies and folk tunes from Maggie Hunter (host of WUGA’s “Just Folks”), Susan Staley (who organizes the monthly Hoot) and Anna Durden, singing songs from their album Holiday Music from Around the World.

Caledonia Lounge 10 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www.caledonialounge.com REDKLAY’S MIXTAPE RELEASE PARTY An eclectic mix of local hiphop including Wildkard, Bear, The Infamous Tony B, RedKlay, King Hill & C-Fresh, Attraction and M-Pac. Club Chrome 9 p.m. $5. 706-543-9009 BOBBY COMPTON BAND The first Redneck Idol, Bobby Compton sings hard rockin’ country.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/flickerbar A POSTWAR DRAMA Local act plays folk-rock with an occasional Eastern European bent. Dramatic tales of loss and hardship are mixed with driving, upbeat stomps.

LAUREN OSBORNE Formerly of the shoegaze rock band Push!

Gnat’s Landing 6 p.m. FREE! 706-850-5858 RYAN HORN Ryan Horn hails from St. Simons Island and brings his face-melting acoustic covers and originals to the Classic City.

Go Bar 10 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/gobar 97 SHEEKI Former members of the band 8 Bark from Chicago take on a new project.

AMERICAN CHEESEBURGER Athens four-piece that boasts former members of No!, Divorce and Carrie Nations, delivering rapid-fire, loud and aggressive old-school thrash rock. Jeff Rapier (The Dumps) recently joined as the new singer.

CANADIAN RIFLE Punk rock trio from Chicago.

HOT BREATH Thrash trio featuring members of experimental local acts Garbage Island and S.V.A.

All are Welcome!

Emmanuel Episcopal Church 498 Prince Ave. Athens, GA 706.543.1294 ext. 201 Flicker Theatre and Bar

HOLIDAY MARKET

SATURDAY, DEC. 19 • 11am-5pm Crafts by:

Don Chambers with Pies and Fortune-Telling Bleigiessen

Emily Pitts with Scarves

Mikulka Polish Foods

Mary Beth and Emily’s Mommy with Ornaments

She’s Made Well

Jim Wilson with Pies

Stephanie Blair

Ansley Beachman

Avid Bookstore

Ryan Adams

Chris Creech

Amy West

Will Eskridge

And Many More!

Purcell Toys

Also, Drink Specials and Music Later in the Evening!

263 W. Washington Street

Little Kings Shuffle Club 9 p.m. www.myspace.com/littlekingsshuffleclub DIS-TASTE-R “A new punk band that the kids like,” says the group.

OCTA P.A. Side solo project from Mark Opel of The Savoir Faire and Golden Gates.

SMOKE DOG Local guys Thom Strickland (vocals, guitar) and Jason k continued on next page

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

29

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WILLIE AND THE HAND FACTORY Longstanding Augusta three-piece that cites Drive-By Truckers, The Pogues and Bob Dylan as influences.

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SPRING SEMESTER WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS 2-5pm MUST HAVE CAR

JOURNALISM OR MARKETING MAJORS PREFERRED SEND RESUMÉ TO ALICIA NICKLES AT ADS@FLAGPOLE.COM

30

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

New Earth Music Hall 9 p.m. www.newearthmusichall.com BOO RAY Soulful singer-songwriter who takes inspiration from Glen Campbell and Exile on Main St.-era Rolling Stones. Joined by his new band which features Daniel Marler, Steve Abercrombie, Nate Hale and Anna Innecken. See feature story on p. 18.

BENJI HUGHES Charlotte singersongwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose blend of styles defies convention, but touches on quirky pop ballads. Expect a lively, shirtless performance.

PART BEAR Local songwriter Gray Griggs fronts this classic-rock-leaning band featuring a fun, energetic live show.

The Office Lounge 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. 706546-0840 STRUNG OUT LIKE LIGHTS AT CHRISTMASTIME An Empty Stocking Fundraiser featuring Dodd Ferrelle, Workhorses of the Entertainment and Recreation Industry, Bo Bedingfield, Curley Maple, Clay Leverett, Burning Angels and an acoustic set by Bloodkin.

Friday, Dec. 18 continued from p. 29

Rye Bar 10 p.m. www.myspace.com/ryebarathens CHRIS PATTON COMEDY NIGHT Local comedian Chris Patton is new to the stand-up scene.

Tasty World Uptown 10 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/tastyworlduptown KARBOMB High-velocity, erratic and angry punk not dissimilar to early’90s Orange County stuff.

SO IT GOES Socially conscious punk rock band that infuses elements of Spanish rock, folk and ska.

THUNDERCHIEF “We play classic rock-influenced punk, or punkinfluenced classic rock,” says the West-Coast-sounding band.

WAVEPOOL Atlanta pop-punk band that won’t disappoint any Warped tour fans.

Terrapin Beer Co. 5:30 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com MONTANA SKIES Incredible guitar/ cello duo applies their classical training, virtuosity and energy to contemporary folk, jazz, pop and flamenco. Expect unexpected covers, from Pink Floyd to Charlie Daniels.

WUGA 91.7 FM 4 p.m. FREE! www.uga.edu/wuga “IT’S FRIDAY!” The Solstice Sisters will perform on the local radio station’s weekly program.

University Cable Channel 15 will also broadcast the show.

Saturday 19 283 Bar 9 p.m. FREE! 706-208-1283 EFREN Local indie swamp-folk band plays selections from their new album Thunder and Moan.

40 Watt Club 6 p.m. $6. www.40watt.com JON GUTHRIE “LIVING THE DREAM” MEMORIAL SHOW The first of a hopefully annual tribute to Jon. This year features live music from: Guff, Music Hates You, Thunderchief, Choptop, Burns Like Fire, So It Goes, Consult the Bones, Hayride, Supercluster, Heavy Feather, Brothers Marler, Kemp Jones, Gabriela Mejias, Greg Veale and Mike Doke, Bruce Neese, The Athens Band and Michael Guthrie. See story on p. 17.

Borders Books & Music 3 p.m. FREE! 706-883-8647 DR. IAN JOHNSON Local musician plays easy listening jazz on two keyboards to emulate a jazz band sound.

7 p.m. FREE! 706-583-8647 RICKY FITZPATRICK This area singer/songwriter plays solo acoustic numbers in the James Taylor vein, working in several country, pop and classic rock covers. Expect some holiday selections as well as some tracks from his upcoming CD. Caledonia Lounge XXXmas Celebration. 10 p.m. www. caledonialounge.com DIGNITY OF LABOUR Jazz-folk fusion from the depths of Canada.

EXCALIBRAH Boastingly tongue-incheek, Je Suis France member D.J. Hammond performs hip-hop with an experimental, almost psychedelic slant. His new album, ExcaliBrah ‘09, is chock full of songs about wangs, hanging out with Robocop, “sippin’ dranks,” and other fun, jokey topics.

He’ll be accompanied, as usual, by his collaborator Swamp Thang.

See Calendar Pick on this page.

DJ WRESTLEMANIA XXV One-time Athenian Elliott Garstin spins the best underground indie jams across every genre.

Saturday, December 19

“XXXmas” Caledonia Lounge Rapper Excalibrah (D.J. Hammond) has significantly raised his profile over the past year.

Beginning his reign within his fantasy football league comprised of several local musicians, he and the others regularly made entire albums full of tracks ribbing and dis-ing the other members. That the phenomenon ever went Excalibrah and Swamp Thang outside the living room is surprising even to him.

“I freakin’ love that people are along for the party and getting into songs about ‘wangs’ and ‘farting at Stonehenge,’ but it’s definitely odd,” he says. “Somehow the records got passed around, and we started to get asked to do real shows. It gave us an opportunity to dress up like Druids and swamp thangs and people from The Matrix—you know, truly live out our dreams. The live show is just really an excuse to visualize the absurdity of the jams. We also love to party with beer.”

Excalibrah writes his own material but records with a slew of friends. His live partner in crime, the anonymous Swamp Thang, writes his own material.

This is the sixth annual XXXmas party, and the same folks who bring you the annual Twilight Delirium are responsible. Also on the bill this night is the dark new wave of The Dignity Of Labor, comedy duo Triple Velcro (Hammond and Chris “Rippy” McElveen), DJ Wrestlemania XXV (Elliott Garstin) and poet Jeff Fallis, performing a reading of “The Night Before Christmas.”

When Flagpole reminded Excalibrah that he was a grown-ass man and asked how long he could possibly keep the party going, he replied: “I was laughing with [engineer] Ken [Henslee] as we were finishing the last record (which took two and half years from start to finish), saying that I was done. But since then I’ve written 15 songs for the next record. I’m just getting warmed up, homeboy.” [Gordon Lamb]

Mike White · deadlydesigns.com

M

THE CALENDAR!

Farm 255 Triple CD Release! 11 p.m. FREE! www. farm255.com BUBBLY MOMMY GUN Raucous psychedelic explorations led by members of Sleeping Friends, The Lickity-Splits and Ice Cream Socialists. Celebrating the release of Ain’t Got No Favorite Color.

MOUSER Colby Carter and his expanding gang of backing musicians play efficient and exuberant garagepop songs that suggest a willingness to experiment, working through noise jams to find the aggressive pop hiding behind. Celebrating the release of Storm Dumps.

TIMMY TUMBLE Tim Schreiber (Dark Meat, The Lickity-Splits) howls over pre-recorded beats, literally tumbling across the floor, enraptured by his garage-rock lust. His ‘08 release Prynce of Ypsilanti finally gets an official release party!

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/flickerbar HOPE FOR AGOLDENSUMMER Charming and highly praised local neo-folk band delivers the thriftstore gospel.

MAT LEWIS Solo performance from the man behind the drums of The Agenda! and behind the keys of Grape Soda.

Gnat’s Landing 6 p.m. FREE! 706-850-5858 TONGUE & GROOVE The acoustic quartet of Henry Williams, Don Henderson, Jason Peckham and Amy Moon plays lively covers and originals.

Go Bar 10 p.m. www.myspace.com/gobar PEACHS Local doom metal band. See Calendar Pick p. 28.

YAAL H’USH Local hard psych band.

Little Kings Shuffle Club 8 p.m. One canned good to get in! www.myspace.com/littlekingsshuffleclub BITCH SWITCH Your all-star lady DJ team, three strong tonight, spins thick dance grooves and adds in a twinge of their own campy performance.

DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Hosted by karaoke fanatic John “Dr. Fred” Bowers.

The Melting Point 8:30 p.m. $10 (adv), $13 (door). www. meltingpointathens.com* RACK OF SPAM This regional eightpiece group got its start here in Athens in 1981; with more than two decades in the business, the group’s Detroit-style R&B and blue-eyed soul still sounds powerful.

The Office Lounge 5:30 p.m. FREE! 706-546-0840.

OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY Don’t worry about embarrassing yourself at this Office party! Let loose with food, fun and music by Shortbus Allstars. Music begins at 7 p.m.

Rye Bar 10 p.m. FREE! www.myspace.com/ ryebarathens BEST BROTHERS BAND Atlanta band that plays R&B infused with a Dave Matthews Band kind of sound.

SUPERVISION Asheville natives play a very jazz-oriented style of rock complete with lots of guitar-andbass noodling.

Tasty World Uptown Rock for Richard! 8 p.m. www.myspace.com/tastyworlduptown LEGEND HAS IT Long-time staple of the Athens cover scene returns with a new album of original music.

High-energy songs and a highenergy atmosphere.

MATT REED’S FULL METAL This Atlanta band plays a wide array of metal covers.

MUSICAL SUICIDE Cover band featuring members of the long-defunct Athens band Overnight Low and the former bassist for Skillet.

Terrapin Beer Co. 5:30 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com STILLHOUSE HOLLOW Hailing from rural Tennessee, these guys play roots music with the down home feel it’s supposed to have.

VFW 8 p.m. $6. 706-546-5978 DAVID PRINCE This Athens staple and one-time member of The Jesters plays your favorite soul, rock and R&B oldies.

Sunday 20 Square One Fish Co. 1-4 p.m. FREE! www.squareonefishco. com SUNDAY JAZZ BRUNCH Rotating local jazz artists play Sunday afternoons on the patio.

Monday 21 Ciné Barcafé 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenscine.com OPEN JAZZ JAM Calling all jazz musicians. Now you can join local jazz group Sonny Got Blue every Monday for an open mic jam.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.myspace.com/ flickerbar MARK CUNNINGHAM Helen, Dodge main man performs acoustic Americana solo.

ERIC JENNINGS Member of Atlanta’s Geisha Hit Squad does solo pieces from his new acoustic album.

Little Kings Shuffle Club 9 p.m. www.myspace.com/littlekingsshuffleclub THE BACKPEDDLERS Brand-new band from prolific local musician Dave Dowless.

JUMPIN’ JESUS CHRISTERS Lively Appalachian-style string band composed of local musicians.

DEBIT

Skate Ska Shop O F AT H E N S

SKATEBOARDS MAKE

GREAT XMAS PRESENTS! 50 GAINES SCHOOL ROAD · 706.543.6368

INTERNSHIP AVAILABLE

Flagpole is looking for an editorial intern to help out in our music department.

ARE YOU...

L AND INDIE MUSIC? CA LO T OU AB E AT ION SS PA [] [] ORGANIZED AND DRIVEN? S? [] PROFICIENT WITH COMPUTER CAREER [] INTERESTED INM?PURSING A IN JOURNALIS [] AWESOME?

Tuesday 22 Alibi 9 p.m. FREE! 706-549-1010 KARAOKE With the singing cowboy.

Little Kings Shuffle Club 9 p.m. www.myspace.com/littkekingsshuffleclub DAFFODIL Local trio plays fuzzedout, early-’90s sounding heavy rock.

JIMMY KIND BUD Christopher Ingham’s new band, formerly Liverty, featuring Kate R. on bass and Sarah T. on drums.

Wednesday 23 Casa Mia 7 p.m. FREE! 706-227-4444 LUDWIG PORRAS Latin and Flamenco guitar.

Little Kings Shuffle Club 9 p.m. www.myspace.com/littlekingsshuffleclub PILLOW FORT No info available.

The Office Lounge 9:30 p.m. FREE! 706-549-0840 KARAOKE Wednesdays with Lynn!

IF YOU ANSWERED, “HECK YES!” TO ALL OF THE ABOVE,

YOU MIGHT BE JUST WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR.

SEND A COVER LETTER, RESUME AND WRITING SAMPLES TO MUSIC@FLAGPOLE.COM

* Advance Tickets Available

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

31

bulletin board DO SOMETHING; GET INVOLVED! HOLIDAY DeadlinE: The deadline for getting listed in Bulletin Board will be WEDNESDAY, Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. for the double issue of Dec. 23 & 30. Email calendar@flagpole.com.

CLASSES Active Climbing Family Climbers (Active Climbing) Family bonding time, where kids get to climb with their parents. Please call ahead! Fridays, 4–6 p.m. $10/ person. 706-354-0038, adrian@ activeclimbing.com Adventure Club: Yoga Teacher Training (Rubber Soul Yoga Revolution Studio) A four-month workshop in yoga and life. Develop your own voice and methodology. Jan. 9–May 1. 706461-0262, calclements@yahoo. com, www.rubbersoulyoga.com/ adventure.html Art Classes (Lyndon House Arts Center) Now registering for instruction in drawing, painting, jewelry, clay and printmaking. For adults, teens and children. Go online for full list of programs. 706-613-3623, www.accleisureservices.com Beginning to Intermediate Pottery (Lyndon House) Develop wheelthrowing, glazing and decorating techniques while you make your own unique stoneware! Jan. 14–Feb. 18, 706-613-3623, www.accleisure services.com Bouldering (Active Climbing) Come and learn to climb without ropes at Athens’ new climbing center! Wednesdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. $15. 706-354-0038, adrian@active climbing.com Chen Style Taijiquan (Floorspace) Effortless power.

Authentic Chinese martial lineage.

Register. Sundays and Mondays, 706-614-3342, telihu@gmail.com Classical Pilates (StudiO) Private instruction and group classes offered daily! Schedule online.

678-596-2956, www.studioin athens.com

32

Clay Classes (Good Dirt) Weekly “Try Clay” class every Friday from 7–9 p.m. and “Family Try Clay” every Sunday from 2–4 p.m. ($20/ person). 706-355-3161, www.good dirt.net Climbing for Beginners (Active Climbing) Learn the ropes and develop climbing technique at Athens’ new climbing center.

Mondays, 5:30–7 p.m. 706-3540038, adrian@activeclimbing.com Computer Classes (ACC Library) Introduction to the Internet.

In the Educational Technology Center. Call to register. Dec. 17, 10–11:30 a.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 Dance Center Winter Classes (East Athens Educational Dance Center) Registering for adult and children’s classes including Beginning Jazz, Ballet, Tap, HipHop, Praise Dancing and more. $18–$25. www.accleisureservices. com/dance.shtml Enamel Bead Making and Beading Basics (Lyndon House Arts Center) Learn a unique enameling technique to make your own spectacular jewelry! 706-613-3623, www.accleisureservices.com Etching for Beginners and Intermediates (Lyndon House) An introduction to intaglio/etching processes using printmaking methods to inscribe images onto metal plates. Learn Xerox transfer, soft ground and aquatint techniques! Call for more info. 706-613-3623, www. accleisureservices.com Fitness Fusion (Healing Arts Centre) Belly dancing infused with yoga and Pilates wisdom. Mondays, 7:30. 706-613-1143 Georgia Spiders Free Workshop (Active Climbing) A two-week workshop for kids who are ready to take climbing to the next level. Call for more information.

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5–6:30 p.m. 706-354-0038, adrian@active climbing.com Getting Started with Genealogy (ACC Library) Genealogy for beginners. In the Heritage Room. Dec. 17, 2–4:30 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 Hoop Class (Canopy Studio) This guided hoop dance class helps develop fitness, balance, strength and flow. Completion of basic hooping workshop encouraged. Fridays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. $15. www.canopy studio.com Intro to Word (Oconee County Library) Learn the basics of word processing. Registration required.

Dec. 16, 3–4:30 p.m. FREE! 706769-3950 Introduction to Computers (Oconee County Library) Call to register for this two-part class covering the basics of hardware, software, storage disks and Windows XP. Dec. 17 & 18, 4–5:30 p.m. FREE! 706769-3950 Jewelry and Metalsmithing (Lyndon House Arts Center) Learn how to create unique pieces of jewelry while learning about various metalsmithing techniques. Call for more information! 706-613-3623, www.accleisureservices.com Line Dancing for Seniors (Council on Aging, Harris Room) Keep your health in line and have fun at the same time! Tuesdays, 4–5 p.m. $5/class. 706-549-4850 Make Your Own Holiday Centerpiece (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Come prepared with your favorite container and pruning shears to design your own holiday centerpiece. Dec. 18, 9 a.m.–noon. $24. 706-542-6156 Mama-Baby Yoga (Five Points Yoga) For babies 1–8 months old and their grown-ups. Every Monday.

Sarah Eubanks’ work is on exhibit at the Lamar Dodd School of Art BFA show, “Exit Strategies.”

11 a.m. $10. 706-355-3114, www. athensfivepointsyoga.com Mama-Baby Yoga Bonding (Full Bloom Center) Fussy babies and tired mamas welcome! For babies 1 to 10 months old. Fridays, 10:30 a.m. $14/class, $60/6-weeks.

706-353-3373 Mind Your Muscles (Athens Community Council on Aging) Bring your muscles into focus with a combination of tai chi, yoga and Pilates! Fridays, 3–4 p.m. $5/class.

706-549-4850 Mindbody Bootcamp (Five Points Yoga) Chant, breathe and meditate in this two-week session of daily, early-morning yoga.

Register. Jan. 11–22, weekdays, 5:45–6:45 a.m. $135/2 weeks, $96/ any 6 classes. 706-355-3113, www. athensfivepointsyoga.com Nonfiction Writing Class (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Journalist and retired professor Dr.

Wally Eberhard teaches a six-week class on “Writing for Money: The Art of Freelance Nonfiction Journalism.”

Begins Jan. 19, $100. 706-7694565, www.ocaf.com Oil and Acrylic Basics (Lyndon House Arts Center) Apply the basic techniques of drawing, image composition, painting styles and color theory to your still-lifes and landscapes. Jan. 14–Mar. 4, Thursdays, 6:30–8:30 p.m. 706-613-3623, www.accleisureservices.com Pilates Classes (Balance Pilates and Wellness Studio) Offering high-quality instruction in Pilates and overall health. Mat classes and apparatus classes available! Full schedule and information about private lessons online. 706-546-1061, www.balancepilatesathens.com Prenatal Yoga (Five Points Yoga) Get ready for birth and beyond with Jenni Derryberry Mann, RYT-200.

Every Sunday. 10:30 a.m. $10. 706-

ART AROUND TOWN A. La Fera Salon (2440 W. Broad St.) Paintings by Perry McCrackin. Through December.

ACC Library (Top of the Stairs Gallery) Paintings by Preston Snyder. Through December.

Aurum Studio (125 East Clayton St.) Paintings

by Christine Shockley-Gholson and John Gholson.

Through February.

Big City Bread Cafe (393 Finley St.) New charcoal drawings on paper by Mark Watkins. Through December.

Ciné Barcafé (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Soundtrack to Nothing,” a collection of photographs by Christy Bush Fogarino documenting teenagers at rock concerts. Reception Dec. 16.

Espresso Royale Caffe (297 E. Broad St.) Paintings by Rhys May. Through December.

Flicker Theatre & Bar (263 W. Washington St.) Shadowbox collages by Alexei Gural. Through December.

Georgia Piedmont Arts Center (105 E. Athens St., Winder) “Harvest of Art” features works by a wide variety of local talent. Through Dec. 19.

Good Dirt (510 B N. Thomas St.) Functional pottery, sculpture and jewelry by over 30 local artists.

Through December.

The Grit (199 Prince Ave.) Paintings and drawings by Noah McCarthy and James Greer. Through Dec. 27.

Hawthorne House Antiques and Interiors (1073 S. Milledge Ave.) Photographs and various artistic explorations by Field Trip duo Rinne Allen and Lucy Allen Gillis. Through Dec. 24.

Just Pho…and More Work by Sutawee N. Thitaram. Through Jan. 30.

Krimson Kafe (40 Greensboro Hwy., Watkinsville) Mosaic artwork by J. Elizabeth Wright. Through December.

355-3114, www.athensfivepoints yoga.com Prenatal Yoga (Full Bloom Center) Get ready for birth and beyond. Every Thursday. 5:30 p.m. $14/class or $60/6 classes. 706353-3373, www.fullbloomparent. com Scottish Country Dancing (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) Introductory classes. No partner necessary! Thursdays, 7–9 p.m. $25/12 weeks, $3/class. 706255-1010, info@thistleandkudzu.net Tae Kwon Do & Jodo Classes (Live Oak Martial Arts, Chase Street Warehouses) For kids and adults, beginner through advanced.

Mondays–Thursdays, 3:30-8:30 p.m. 706-548-0077, www.liveoak martialarts.com Tai Chi for Seniors (Council on Aging) Increase strength and balance! Every Tuesday. 2–3 p.m. $15/ semester. 706-549-4850

Lyndon House Arts Center (293 Hoyt St.) “Through Our Eyes: Portraits and Self-Portraits by the Students of Clarke County” highlights the work of local young artists. Through Jan. 20.

Madison-Morgan Cultural Center (434 S. Main St., Madison) In his exhibit “From the Forest to the Shore,” Michael Murrell’s works in wood, metal and mixed media reflect on ecological issues, endangered species and man’s relationship with nature.

Through Jan. 15.

Mercury Art Works “Terre Verte,” the debut exhibition for Mercury Art Works at Hotel Indigo, features photographs by Rinne Allen and work by various local artists, including Art Rosenbaum, Chris Bilheimer, Mary Engel, Scott Belville and Michael Stipe. Through Feb. 15.

Monroe Art Guild (205 S. Broad St., Monroe) “Wood and Stone” by Dan Thoman. Through December.

Oconee County Library Photography by Kathy Berry. Through December.

Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (34 School St., Watkinsville) Artists of OCAF Shop features original works by 35 regional artists and craftspeople. Through Dec. 23, Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.ocaf.com Speakeasy (269 E. Broad St.) Paintings by Will Eskridge. Through December.

Transmetropolitan (145 E. Clayton St.) Acrylic paintings by Anna Beth Eason. Through January.

Visionary Growth Gallery (2400 Booger Hill Rd., Danielsville) “Our Way the Only Way,” an exhibit featuring new works by UGA sculpture professor Jim Buonaccorsi and painter David Barron. Through Jan. 15.

White Tiger Gourmet Food & Chocolates (217 Hiawasee Ave.) An exhibit featuring paintings and sculpture by local artist and art educator Leonard Piha. Through December.

Tech Tips: Gmail (Oconee County Library) Still IDigBison@hotmail. com? Learn how Gmail will improve your life! Dec. 21, 7–7:45 p.m.

Teen Painting Class (Lyndon House) Students will focus on painting and its materials and methods, as well as its history. Supplies provided. Call for more information!

Jan. 12–Feb. 16. 706-613-3623, www.accleisureservices.com The Artist Within (Lyndon House Arts Center) Students learn to give visual expression to their emotions through drawing and painting activities. Jan. 13–Feb. 17, Wednesdays, 10–11 a.m. 706-613-3623, www. accleisureservices.com Wilderness Skills Program (Greenway) Should you yell at that bear or run away? Is sucking out the poison really a good idea? Do these questions make you feel helpless and vulnerable? Don’t be caught unprepared; call to register and learn essential outdoor survival techniques. Kids 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Dec. 19, 9–11 a.m. $2. 706-613-3615 Yoga and Tai Chi (Mind Body Institute) New classes beginning Jan. 10! Visit online for complete listing. 706-475-7329, www.armc. org/mbi Yoga Classes (Om Town Yoga, 190 Park Avenue) Iyengar certified Yoga instruction for balance, strength, flexibility and stamina.

Mondays, 6:15 p.m. Wednesdays, 5:45 p.m. $10/drop-in. www.athens omtownyoga.com Zumba at the Garden (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves comprise this dynamic fitness program. Wednesdays, Jan. 6–Feb. 24.

5:30 – 6:30 p.m. $10/class, $60/ session. www.uga.edu/botgarden

peze. Sundays, noon–1 p.m. info@ canopystudio.com Mommy/Daddy and Me Trapeze (Canopy Studio) Parents will guide their children in a range of exercises on the floor and low trapezes. Each child must be accompanied by one parent. Sundays, 10–11 a.m. (ages 2–3) 11 a.m.–noon (ages 1–2) $10/class. 706-549-8501, info@canopystudio.com One-to-One Reading Program (East Athens Community Center) Read with the librarian and other volunteers. Get them all to yourself! For ages 6 and up. Monday–Thursday, 3:30–5:30 p.m., FREE! 706-613-3657 Santa’s Mail Bag (Various Locations) Santa has an overstock of coal this year, so if your child has been more nice than naughty, please be sure to register them for Santa’s “nice list” before Dec. 17. Call or go online for more information. 706613-3603, www.accleisureservices. com/holidayevents.shtml Winter Blast Holiday Camp (Lay Park) Get out of the house and get into arts and crafts, games, cooking and more! For kids ages 6–12. Register by Dec. 18. Dec. 28–30, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $11. 706613-3596 Winter Break Camp (Rocksprings Park) Four days of Nickelodeon-themed crafts, computer activities, games and sports!

For ages 6–12. Space is limited; register by Dec. 22. Dec. 28–Dec. 31, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $11. 706-6133603, www.accleisureservices.com/ holidayevents.shtml Yoga Sprouts (Memorial Park) Fun, playful yoga for kids ages 2 and up. Now registering! Call for information on sessions, fees and scholarships. Tuesdays. 706-353-3373

HELP OUT!

SUPPORT

Become a Mentor (Boys and Girls Clubs of Athens) Volunteer one hour per week to make a difference in the life of a child. Training provided. 706-546-4910, mentor@ athensbgca.com, www.fflife.net Holiday Bikes for Kids (BikeAthens) Help provide quality, fully refurbished bicycles to underprivileged youth. Seeking volunteers to help clean and polish bikes. Bike donations can also be made during these times. Sundays, 2–4 p.m.

Mondays & Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. www.bikeathens.com Teach English as a Second Language (Various Locations) Catholic Charities seeks volunteers to teach adult English classes in the evenings. Ongoing training available beginning Jan. 23. 404-516-7949, vpflug@archatl.com

Emotional Abuse Support Group (Call for location) Demeaning behavior and hateful words can be just as harmful as punches and kicks. Childcare is provided. Call Project Safe hotline at 706-543-3331 for location.

Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.

Emotions Anonymous (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) Informal and supportive 12step program open to anyone with a desire to become well emotionally.

Sundays, 4–5 p.m. 706-202-7463, www.emotionsanonymous.org Mental Health Support Group (St. Mary’s Hospital) Meets in the lobby conference room.

Thursdays, 6:30–8 p.m. 706-7835706, www.athensmentalhealth.org

KIDSTUFF GEN Homeschool Club (State Botanical Garden) Garden Earth Naturalist Club for homeschoolers.

Meet once a week to learn about pollination, air and water purification, pest control, soil production and recycling through discovery hunts, environmental games, nature hikes and crafts. Wednesdays, Jan. 6–Feb. 24, 9–11 a.m. $44. 706-542-6156 Gifts from Nature Mini Camp (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Explore nature, make crafts and enjoy snacks at these morning nature retreats!

Now registering. Dec. 29–31, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. $16. 706-6133615, www.accleisureservices.com/ holidayevents.shtml Kids Trapeze Open Studio (Canopy Studio) Bring a parent to assist you as you learn the art of tra-

DECK theWALLS! ARTIST - MADE GREETING CARDS ORNAMENTS WREATHS CANDLES AND OTHER SEASONAL ITEMS

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293 Hoyt Street, Athens GA 30601 706-613-3623 ext 224

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ON THE STREET Band Together: Help Rebuild the Georgia Theatre (Georgia Theatre) The Georgia Theatre and the GA Trust for Historic Preservation have banded together to help fund the rebuilding of the Theatre. To make a donation or learn more, visit their website. www.georgiatrust.org/ preservation/georgiatheatre.php Chili Cook-off (Email for Location) Effie’s Club Follies is now accepting entries in the beef, veggie and mysterious “other” categories for their fourth annual cook-off.

Deadline Dec. 18. www.effiesclub follies.com Gift Wrapping (Barnes and Noble) Presentation counts! The Oconee County Library Friends want to help you wrap your presents. No wrinkles. No lumps. Make your family proud. Dec. 17. Donations accepted.

706-769-3950 f

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

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comics

Vegan

34

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

by CRL

reality check Matters Of The Heart And Loins I just finished school at the end of September. While I was in school, I had a bit of a crush on one of my instructors. (He’s 34; I’m 26.) We had always had a friendly interaction as student/teacher, but things never crossed the line. Once I graduated, we began communicating a lot—texting, Facebook chatting, phone calls, etc.—almost all initiated by him. After about three weeks of this and nothing coming from it, I put it all out there. I talked to him and said I had to acknowledge that we’d been flirting since I graduated, and that I found him attractive and enjoyed spending time/ talking with him. He responded that he agreed/ felt the same way, but was in no place to explore a relationship right now. So, let’s be friends, right? No big deal.

Well, a week or so after this conversation, he, a friend of mine and I all went to a music festival out of state. We didn’t stay together (he was in a hotel; we camped), but we hung out the entire time. On our last night, we stayed in his hotel (so as to be able to shower/sleep in a real bed before making the 15-hour drive home). We got to his hotel, made cocktails and hung out for a while. During this time, he started becoming more physically flirtatious with me. After a while, we all went to bed (three people in a queen-size bed). He and I immediately snuggled up to each other, and he quickly started to initiate physical contact. We started to make out, and things escalated quickly (yes, with my friend in the bed—though we didn’t have sex. I know this is like high school… and it’s extremely embarrassing). She got up to go to the bathroom (really to remove herself from the situation), and he and I decided “this is wrong; we need to stop” and went to sleep.

I was crazy sick once I got home, and all doped up on medication for about five days.

He sent me a text asking if we could talk, on probably the first day I’d started to feel better, and we talked about what had happened on the trip. He apologized, said he got caught up in the moment, etc. He was REALLY freaked out.

So, me, trying to play the cool girl, said “Hey, no biggie, it happens, whatever” even though that’s not really how I felt. So, we went about life as usual.

About a week later, I went to lunch with my friend (the one who went on the trip with me). At the end of the meal, she expressed to me that she had been feeling post-trip that he was wanting something more than friendship from her. (I’ll refer to them as “she” and “he” from now on for the sake of space.) She confronted him, and he said he did. So, obviously, I kinda freaked out. I’d had a crush on this guy for eight months… he had just told me three weeks prior he had no interest in exploring a relationship. I was fucking furious and really hurt.

So, after a few days, he and I met up to talk. I felt like it was really good, and I was

able to express my feelings surrounding the situation. He was totally willing to accept that he had handled the situation REALLY poorly. I left the conversation feeling much better. Well, she and I had still not talked about what her feelings were around them dating. So, this Friday, she sent me an email essentially saying that my friendship is the most important thing to her, but she’d be lying if she said she wasn’t interested in “getting to know him” better.

I was initially really upset and pissed off, but came to the conclusion that those reactions were more the result of my own shit and not him or her. So, we talked, and I essentially gave her my blessing.

That night, a big group of us went to a show, and I proceeded to get pretty intoxicated. I was talking with another friend at a late-night food joint and started to cry.

And, since I HATE being the drunk, crying girl, I immediately paid my bill and said I was headed home. The friend I was talking with said she’d walk me, but she was obviously extremely irritated and frustrated with my “outburst.”

So, now it comes to today. We haven’t spoken since Friday night. She sent me a two-page email essentially calling me a drama queen and saying that she needed “space” from me.

I have not responded to said email. I’m just really unsure about how to proceed. I don’t think that my reaction is THAT uncalled for… maybe I’m overreacting a little, but I think that overall I’m entitled to those feelings. I’m really sorry that this is so long, but I wanted to try and give you as much of the story as possible. Ideally, I would love to continue to be friends with both of them. But I’m not sure that that is possible or necessarily the best course of action. Is this just a shitty situation? Or am I being screwed?

Clueless in Colorado.

You know what I think, Clueless? I think your instructor was hoping for a three-way, and when your friend got up and went in the bathroom, she ruined it. I think she should have talked to you about it right after it happened, she should have told you that she had feelings for him, and she should be smart enough to realize he is playing you both. I also think that she did you a favor by taking you out of the equation. You can safely assume that he was sending her the same texts and Facebook messages that he was sending you, figuring that one or both of you would fall for it and either way—score!

This guy sounds like he’s totally full of it and you should consider it a bullet dodged. Don’t bother trying to be friends with either of them, and if you really do like her, prepare to be the shoulder she cries on when she figures out what a loser he is.

Jyl Inov Got a question for Jyl? Submit your anonymous inquiry via the Reality Check button at www.flagpole.com.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

35

classifieds

Buy It, Sell It, Rent It, Use It! Place an ad anytime at flagpole.com  Indicates images available at flagpole.com

Real Estate

1BR apt. w/ full kit. & BA. W/D. incl. $400/mo. + $400/sec dep.

Avail. now. Won’t last! (706) 254-2936.

Apartments for Rent

1BR apt. for $475/mo. 2BR apt. starting at $700/mo. 3BR apt starting at $1000/mo.

All close to campus! Howard Properties (706) 546-0300.

$475–525/mo. 1BR/1BA, 2 Blocks to town & campus. Lg. BR, CHVAC, great view of city, ceiling fans, some screen porches. Owner pays water & garbage. Avail. for January 1st move–in.

Go to boulevard​p roperty​ management.com, (706) 548-9797. $450/mo. Alexi Apartments. 1 lg.

BR/1BA w/ lg. lv. rm & walk–in closet. Laundry facilities, picnic tables, grill. 1 block off Milledge w/ bus stop. (706) 207-9902, (706) 835-8401.

1BR/1BA. All electric, water, furnished, nice! On busline.

Single pref. Avail. now! (706) 543-4271.

2BR basement apt. 180 Moss Side Dr. Great rm. w/ FP. Private entrance. $520/mo + utils. Washer & DW provided. Call (706) 2542526 or (706) 227-9312.



2BR/1BA. ARMC area.

Avail. immediately! Prefer family, professionals, grad students or nurses. Central heat/AC, newly renovated, off–street parking. Safe quiet n’hood. Total electric. $550/ mo. (706) 543-4556.

1, 2, & 3BR apts avail.

December rent free! Also, 1BRs 1/2 off January rent.

2 BRs Jan. rent is also free!

Sec. dep. starts at $150. Huge apts, pet friendly, on bus line, recycling incl! Call us (706) 549-6254. Restrictions apply.

2BR/2BA apt in East Athens.

Partially furnished. Big kitchen, deck. $725/mo. (706) 614-6947.

flagpole classifieds Reach Over 30,000 Readers Every Week!

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PLACE AN AD • At flagpole.com, pay with credit card or PayPal account • Call our Classifieds Dept. (706) 549-0301 • Email us at class@flagpole.com

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FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

2BR/1BA. Apts avail. 125 Honeysuckle Lane off Broad St. across from King Ave. On busline. GRFA welcomed. Water & trash incl. Central location.

Lease, deposit, references required. $450/mo. (706) 2276000 or (706) 461-2349.

FTX Apartments. Campus & busline within half a block.

Near Milledge Ave. 2BR units.

Pre–lease for Fall 2010. These units are always 100% leased so act now for low rental rates.

Call Stacy at (706) 425-4048 or (706) 296-1863.

2BR/1BA Five Points Duplex on Mell St., total electric, DW, W/D hookups. $625/mo. (706) 546-6900, ValerioProperties.com.

Great loft apt. in Bowman. 30 mi. from Athens. 1800 sq. ft.

1.5BA. W/D conn. CHAC, full kitchen, open space. Historic bldg. $550/mo./dep. (706) 498-4733.

2BR/1BA, Deville 136 Grady Ave. $695/mo. Great place to live, upstairs, HWflrs, pool, courtyard. Call for showing (706) 548-9797, www.boulevard​ property​management.com.

3BR/2.5BA townhome off Riverbend. Tons of space!

Finished basement, front porch & back deck. Pool & tennis community. Only $900/mo.

Aaron (706) 207-2957.

Available January. Spacious 2BR Dwntn apts. 3 blocks from N. campus. Out of bar scene. Close to everything. Call George (706) 340-0987.

Best proper ty in town!

Woodlands of Athens.

3BR/3BA full of amenities. Gated community, great specials.

Reduced to only $1050/mo. Call Pete (706) 372-3319.

Best deal in town! El Dorado 2BR/1BA & studio apts. in N o r m a l t o w n . F re e w a t e r, gas, basic cable & wireless Internet. W/D in 2BR units. Dog runs. $420–$675/mo. Joiner & Associates (706) 549-7371.

Dwntn 2nd floor apt. on Clayton St. Walk to UGA. Great location! $675/mo. Available now! Parker & Associates (706) 546-0600 or visit parkerandassociates.com.

In 5 Pts. 815 S. Milledge.

Stained glass windows, beautiful stained wood floors/ walls/ceilings. Gas heat/ e l e c t r i c a i r, F P s , h e a v y insulation, skylights, electric security, storage rm., W/D conn. No pets. Non–smoking.

Studio $523/mo, 1BR $523/ mo., 2BR $682–$792/mo., Stone cottage efficiency $482/ mo. (706) 546-1716.

Nice 2BR w/ CHVAC in quiet 5 Pts. neighborhood. 310 Stanton Way. Avail. January. $575/mo.

Owner/Broker Herbert Bond Realty & Investment. (706) 224-8002.

White Columns Hall.

1BR/1BA, 1 block from Dwntn.

Water, gas incl., laundr y onsite. $465/mo. Call Joiner Management (706) 353-6868.

West Athens, just off Prince. $595/mo. 2BR/2BA apt.

Living room w/ FP, eat–in kitchen, deck. High speed internet avail. Avail. now. (706) 614-6947.

Westside condos.

2BR/2BA, $600/mo. Hospital Area, garage apt., totally updated, 2BR/1BA, $525/ mo. & $550/mo. Eastside quadraplex 2BR/2BA, $525/mo. 2BR/1BA, $490/mo.

Eastside duplex 2BR/1BA, FP, $490/mo.3BR/2BA, FP, $650/mo., corner lot. Call McWaters Realty, (706) 549-3222, (706) 353-2700 or cell (706) 540-1529.

Apartments for Sale Downtown Condo.

1BR/1BA in University Tower.

Approx 720 sq. ft. Across Broad St. from north campus, great view. $89K. Go to www. homesbyowner.com/58149.

Call (706) 255-3743.

Commercial Property $100–$150 Studio spaces.

Great location, cool spaces.

1 block from town. (706) 5489797, boulevard​p roperty​ management.com.

195 Park Ave. $750/mo.3 lg. offices, common area w/ kitchen. Currently used as wellness center. Great location, great n’hood. Contact or call today (706) 5489797, boulevard​p roperty​ management.com.



5K sq. ft. Building/ Wa re h o u s e f o r s a l e or lease in Lexington, GA. $1K/mo. or $120K. 111, 113 & 115 E. Main St. Call Diego (706) 621-1035 or Ken (706) 614-8295. More info: www. k p s u r p l u s . c o m / p ro d u c t s / view/26554.

5K sq. ft. Building/ Warehouse for sale or lease in Crawford, GA. $1650/ mo. or $150K. 187 Bunker Hill Rd. On 1.5 acres in Oglethorpe Co. Call Diego (706) 621-1035 or Ken (706) 614-8295. More info: http://www.kpsurplus.com/ products/view/26553.



7500 sq. ft. Building/ Warehouse for sale or lease in Winterville, GA. $3500/ mo. or $420K. 1459 Hargrove Lake Rd. On 6 acres zoned B1 in Oglethorpe Co. Call Diego (706) 621-1035 or Ken (706) 614-8295. More info: http:// www.kpsurplus.com/products/ view/25214.



Amazing Office Spaces for lease above Dwntn Five Guys restaurant.

Sign a 1 Year Lease and Receive the 1st Month Free or 12% off!! Call Reign at Coldwell Banker Upchurch Realty (706) 372-4166, or (706) 543-4000.

Athens Executive Suites.

Offices avail. in historic Dwntn bldg. w/ on–site parking. All utils., Internet, & janitorial incl.

Single or multiple offices avail.

Call Stacy (706) 425-4048 or (706) 296-1863.

Commercial or Residential.

10 rooms, 2 kitchens, 2BAs. 1 mi. to Arch. Huge porch, large yard. $1300/mo. Call David (706) 247-1398.

Eastside offices. 1060 Gaines School Rd. Rent: 1200 sq. ft. $1200/mo., 450 sq. ft. $600/mo., 170 sq. ft. $375/mo., 450 sq. ft. $600/ mo. (706) 546-1615 or www. athenstownproperties.com.

Great business opportunity in Bowman. 1800 sq. ft. bldg. for $650/mo., 575 sq. ft. bldg. for $450/mo. Retail office, hair studio, etc. Great traffic. (706) 498-4733.

Paint Artist Studio. Historic Blvd Area. Artist Community.

160 Tracy St. Rent: 400 sq. ft. $200/mo., 300 sq. ft. $150/ mo. (706) 546-1615 or www. athenstownproperties.com.

Retail Suites for lease at Homewood Village.

1K–12,500 sq. ft. avail. For more info call Bryan Austin at (706) 353-1039 or visit www. sumnerproperties.net.

Condos for Rent 2BR/1BA condo. Campus close. Security gate, pool, fitness center. Located at Stadium Village. Excellent condition. $600/mo. or $200/ wk. (706) 206-2347.

2BR/2.5 Bath condo on Epps Bridge. Avail. immediately.

December rent free w/ signed lease!Newly renovated. New carpets, cabinets, & appls.

W/D connection. Backyard.

Garbage incl. in rent. $725/mo.

(706) 255-7039.

3BR/2BA condo, newly remodeled, incl. paint & flooring. Spacious rooms, central location. $750/mo.

Avail. now! Call Geoff for more info (706) 206-3560.

Spacious 2BR/2BA condo.

6 mo. lease req’d. $650/mo.

Near busline. (706) 207-3677.

Duplexes For Rent 2BR/1.5BA. Jolly Lane in Sleepy Hollow Subdivision.

Near UGA, Memorial Park & Birchmore Trail. W/D, DW, CHAC, FP. Avail now. $650/ mo. Call April (706) 5495006, go to www.athens condosales.com.

FLAGPOLE CLASSIFIEDS to find roommates, apartments, houses, etc. To place an ad call 706-549-0301.

2BR/1BA duplexes on Westside. 171 & 173 Nicole Circle. W/D conn. FP, CHAC, fenced yd. $425/mo. & dep. each. (706) 498-4733.

2BR/1BA duplex, Eastside, Lexington Heights. Close to UGA & busline. $495/mo. Avail. now. Call Leah (706) 254-6713.

2BR/1.5BA East Athens Duplex. Fresh paint, W/D, DW, range, fridge, trash & yard service incl. Pets OK. Available now! $550/ mo. Call Mike toll free (877) 740-1514.

Houses for Rent



$1250/mo. 3BR/2BA, Huge bonus rm., split floor plan, completely remodeled, vaulted ceiling, granite tops, HWflrs., stainless steel appls., oil–rubbed bronze fixtures, FP. 2200 sq. ft. Big flat yard, private deck. Avail. now. 110 Victory Estates Dr. Owner/Agent. Call Mike (706) 207-7400. $925/mo. 3BR/2BA, office, dining room, remodeled, excellent condition, masonry FP, W/D conn., 1700 sq. ft. Lg. wooded lot, new deck, close to the Mall. Avail. now. 420 Cavalier Dr. Call Mike (706) 207-7400.



$875/mo. 4BR/1.5BA. Eastside. Lg. kitchen, W/D, workshop, 1–car garage, fenced yard, safe n’hood.

Avail. now. 117 Crossbow Circle. Owner/Agent. Call Mike (706) 207-7400.



3BR/2BA house Eastside.

Quiet n’hood. $900/mo. All appls. 213 Springtree St. Avail. now! (706) 713-0626.

3BR/2.5BA. 1 mi. to UGA. $1200/mo. 1 yr. old house.

Open floor plan, microwave, DW, W/D conn. Avail. now.

(706) 410-6122.

3BR/2BA. Extra rooms. Avail.

Jan! Walk to Downtown. wood flrs., CHAC, DW, W/D, $1200/ mo. Email hello@rwoodstudio. com or call Josh (706) 424-9127.

3BR/1.5BA brick ranch. Band room, CHAC, HWflrs., huge fenced yd. 2 mi. to Dwntn.

Reduced to $725/mo. (706) 549-4580.

3BR/2BA. Walk Downtown. Avail. Jan! Huge organic garden, wood flrs., CHAC, DW, W/D. Extra rooms for studio/office. $1K/mo. Email hello@rwoodstudio.com or call josh (706) 424-9127.

$875/mo. Blocks from campus. 3 extra lg. BRs, 1.5BA. 12’ ceilings, HWflrs., W/D, CHAC. Avail. now. 127 Elizabeth St. Owner/Agent.

Call Mike (706) 207-7400.

3BR/2BA house in Crawford.

Living room, dining, den/office, carport, porch. 15 min. from Athens. Newly renovated.

Garden spot avail. $800/mo.

(706) 743-5212.

1080 Oglethorpe Ave. City busline. 2BR/1BA + bonus room, laundry room, patio.

Neat condition, great location.

Lawn maintenance possible.

Perfect for 2 grad students/ professionals. Short lease avail. $750–$850/mo. (706) 338-7990, (706) 353-0708.

3BR/2.5BA houses w/ HWflrs, granite tops & all appls! Avail. now for $1200/mo! 1/2 mi. to Dwntn. 105 Trail Creek Dr.!

(706) 713-0626.

1BR/1BA. $495-525/mo. overlooking Dwntn & campus.

All electric, lg. BRs, some w/ screened porches, laundry on site. Freshly renovated & priced right. Avail. 1/01/09.

Call (706) 548-9797 or b o u l e v a rd ​p ro p e r t y​ management.com.

1695 W. Hancock. 3BR/2BA. CHAC, W/D, DW, fenced, pets OK, bands OK, HWflrs.

Close to Dwntn. Sec. sys. $650/mo. Avail. Jan 1st.

Call/text (706) 714-4486, email hathawayproperties@ gmail.com.

2BR duplexes starting at $450/ mo. 159 Gran Ellen, 3BR/3BA $1300/mo. 1BR/1BA $600/ mo. 167 Tibbets, Normaltown house $650/mo. Pls. call (706) 549-6070.

2BR/1BA house. Close to campus/Dwntn. AC, W/D, DW, Pets OK. Fenced–in yard. $700/mo. Avail. now! (706) 296-4034. Email apexsigns@ bellsouth.net.

2BR/1BA off Pulaski St. 238 1/2 Cleveland Ave. CHAC, W/D, screened porch. $450/mo.

Call/text (706) 714-4486, email richardhathaway@gmail.com.

2BR/2BA new house Dwntn.

Spacious & less than 1 mi. from Arch. W/D incl. Upgrades galore. $1050/mo. Avail.

August. Aaron (706) 207-2957.

2BR/1BA cute cottage w/ front porch. CHAC, near UGA. $800/mo. Avail. now. Also, ask about 2 other houses avail. now. Call (706) 354-1276 or (706) 540-7812.

3BR/2BA historic farmhouse in Lexington, GA. Pls. call (706) 549-6070.

4BR/4BA new houses Dwntn.

Less than 1 mi. from Arch.

W/D incl. Upgrades galore.

Only $1900/mo. Avail. August.

Aaron (706) 207-2957.

4BR/3BA cottage. Kitchen w/ island & all appls. incl.

DW. Pets OK. Internet avail. $1200/mo. Approx. 1 mi. from campus/Eastside/Dwntn. RE/ MAX realtor Michelle Watson (706) 614-6947.

576 Whitehead Rd. Small 2BR/1BA. Almost 2 acre lot.

Fenced yard, pets OK. No pet fees! CHAC. A must see! $695/mo. (706) 254-2569.

5 Pts. area. 3BR/2BA house.

CHAC, DW, laundry rm. w/ W/D, back deck, carport. Call (706) 255-0066.

5BR/3BA Eastside home for rent. 50% off 1st mo. rent if lease signed by 12/1. Approx $300/mo. per room. 1 mi from campus, 2nd kitchen, d e c k , f e n c e d y a rd . W i l l consider some pets. W/D incl! Move–in today & save, or prelease while avail! (770) 374-0123.

Available now! 3BR/1BA. Blvd. HWflrs., W/D. Pets OK. CHVAC. $900/mo. Call Tom (706) 540-2432.

Avail. now. 3BR/2BA. Off Milledge. CHAC, W/D, HWflrs. $700/mo. + dep. Pets OK. Call Mark (706) 202-5110.

Best rentals in Athens!

1–5BR houses, apts., condos.

In the heart of UGA/Dwntn/5 Pts. Avail. Aug. Going fast, call today! (706) 3692908 for more info.

Cute house on Hollie St. 1BR/1BA for $550/mo. Great yard, quiet location. Avail. now!

Convenient location. Parker & Associates (706) 546-0600, parkerandassociates.com.

Convenient Eastside location.

2BR/1BA. Close to schools & shopping. All appls. incl. W/D. Avail. now. $525/mo. Carole Moon Owner/Agent (706) 540-0472.

First month free! 2–3BRs in quiet setting, off the beaten path. Sec. sys. incl. W/D, DW, priv. deck. Mention this ad & pay no pet fee! ( 7 0 6 ) 5 4 8 - 2 5 2 2 , w w w. dovetailmanagement.com.

For Sale or Rent. 3BR/1BA in 5 Pts. 176 Habersham Dr. Avail. now! Pets OK. W/D & CHAC incl. $139,900 or $900/mo. Call Calvin (912) 399-4057.

Great 3BR home 1 mi. from Dwntn/Arch. Fenced yard, HWflrs., W/D, FP, lg. living/ dining area. 38 Holman Ave. Call Doug (706) 254-2800.

Handicap accessible i n – t o w n h o u s e . Good condition, HVAC, parking, fenced yard, pets OK, 2BR/2BA. Avail. 1/1/10. $950/ mo. Diane (706) 788-7997.

Newly renovated 3BR/1BA house Blvd n’hood. Close to campus & Dwntn. W/D, CHAC. Nicest in town! $1200/ mo. Avail. January 1st. Call jeff (706) 247-6373, email sheryl819@yahoo.com.

Northside 2BR/1BA, lg. lot, $600/mo. Hospital area 2BR/1BA, carport, fenced–in yard, $750/mo. Eastside 3BR/2BA. Lg. yd., on dead–end street. $950/mo. 4BR/2BA w/ lg. yd. $1200/mo. 2 or 3BR/1BA w/ screened front porch, $700/ mo. Cedar Creek 4BR/2BA $950/mo. Oconee County 3BR/2BA. Lv. rm. w/ FP, din. rm., double garage, $1000/ mo. Call McWaters Realty, (706) 549-3222, (706) 3532700, (706) 540-1529.

Houses for Sale $77,700. Cute 2BR/1BA house w/ bonus rm. HWflrs, CHAC, fenced yd, butterfly garden.

Bus, walk, or bike to Dwntn, campus & Alps. 405 Benning St. Michael (706) 255-8600, www.fullcircleathens.com.

1695 W. Hancock. 3BR/2BA lg house. Double lot. CHAC, W/D, DW, wood flrs, sec. sys., fenced, close to Dwntn. $135K. Call/text (706) 714-4486, email hathawayproperties@gmail.com.



2 3 5 B a i l e y. $ 5 0 K .

Great Investment Proper ty! Call Reign at Coldwell Banker Upchurch Realty (706) 372-4166, or (706) 543-4000.

Owner financing. 3BR/2BA ranch. Basement, remodeled kitchen, HWflrs, covered porch, fenced yd., koi pond, vegetable garden. $135K. Call Martha (770) 540-9262. View at www.upchurchrealty.com/ MarthaCooper.

Roommates 2 roommates needed for 3BR house. Alps area. W/D, WiFi, $315/mo + 1/3 utils. Avail. Jan. 3rd. Grad students pref’d. Call (864) 550-0148.

In the country. Fun, liberal, photographer, neat freak looking for roommate in nice gated home, private BA, 1/2 office avail. Possibly space for horse & child. $500–700/mo, depending on needs. Sec. dep. & refs. req’d. Call (706) 654-8712.

Look! 2 M/F needed for 3BR/2BA. W/D, DW, FP, deck, fenced yds., garage, cool roommates. $325/mo.+ utils.

10 min. drive to Dwntn. (352) 215-0056.

M/F housemate wanted (grad student/professional) to share 2BR/1BA. $325/mo. + 1/2 utils.

Quiet n’hood. 5 Pts. Walk to campus/busline. HWflrs, W/D, CHAC. Email thedobhran@ hotmail.com.

Normaltown cottage. Avail.

1/1/10. 2BR/1BA. HWflrs, CHAC, DW, W/D hookups, fenced–in backyd, covered patio, FP. Perfect for grad students or professionals. On busline. Pets OK w/ dep.! $800/ mo.+ dep. (706) 372-3383.

Room avail. immediately for student. Renovated house right behind ARMC. Biking distance to UGA. Fenced yd.

Pets OK w/ dep. $300/mo. + 1/3 utils. (404) 713-0655.

Normaltown/ARMC. 180 Willow Run. Very nice 3BR/1BA. HWflrs, DW, W/D, CHAC. Lg. fenced backyd.

Pets OK w/ dep. $800/mo.

(404) 210-7145.

$500/mo. 3rd housemate needed for room in recently renovated 3BR/3.5BA house w/ 2 (M,F) PhD students. Terrific location! Pulaski, near Prince.

Avail. Jan. Email gfelis@uga.edu.

Newly renovated 4BR/3BA for rent in ARMC area. W/D, DW, CHAC, screen porch, game room, off–street parking. $1200/mo. Call Vicki at (706) 540-7113 to set up a tour.

Room in 2BR/1.5BA condo in Winfield Chase. Across from the Navy School on Prince.

Asking $350/mo. + 1/2 utils.

Call (706) 424-9370.

Rooms for Rent

$425 room w/ private entrance, d e c k , & re m o d e l e d B A .

In–town cottage, walk to Dwntn/ campus. W/D, extra storage.

No smoking/drugs. Grad student pref. Avail. Jan. 1st.

Flexible lease. (478) 397-4696.

Roommate needed 12/1. Lg. rm., CHVAC, private entrance. Avail. now! W/D use, share kit/bath w/ 1 person, utils 5–way split. Walk to town. (706) 424-0901.

Spacious room for rent in Blvd area. Private entrance & porch, W/D. $375/mo. Avail. immediately. (606) 584-5231.

Land for Sale



0 Va l l e y w o o d .

Awesome Homewood Hills Lot For Sale $44,900.

Call Reign at Coldwell Banker Upchurch Realty (706) 3724166, or (706) 543-4000.

Sub-lease $275/mo. + 1/3 utils. Master BR w/ priv. BA in 3BR house. Newly renovated. Convenient Eastside.

W/D, DW, big yard, pets ok.

Avail. Jan 1st. or before. Lease ends Aug. 1st. M/F students current. (864) 237-0049. $333/mo. Male subleaser needed for Jan. 1st. 1 roommate, works & attends UGA’s Grad School. Furnished living & kitchen areas w/ your own room & private BA. No pets.

Pool & tennis court. On Cedar Shoals next to a gym, car wash, & gas station. Contact Kendall at (706) 461-9622, lv. msg.

Available immediately! 2–story, 2BR/2BA, 1 lg. office (can be an add’l BR), huge laundry rm., FP, breakfast nook, dining area, lots of light, & plenty of storage space make this house an ideal place for a couple, small family or single person.

The little maintenance wooded yd. is also an attractive feature!

This is a quiet, no traffic area of 5 Pts., w/in 5 min. walking to all 5 Pts businesses like EarthFare, yoga, coffee shops, pub, etc.

Rent: $1100 plus utils. Air conditioning can be controlled independently upstairs/ downstairs, saving on bills. Pls. call Sonia (706) 296-3909.

Lg. 1BR apt. prime location! 6 mo. sublease avail. Jan 1st. 5 Pts. next to UGA Foley field & Barrow Elementary. $425/mo.

(478) 552-0378 lv. msg. Email cbennett_2@charter.net.

For Sale Furniture A New Queen Ptop Mattress Set: $150. Must sell! Still in plastic w/ warranty. Can Deliver! Call (706) 612-8004.

GAIAM wicker meditation chair w/ cushions. Looks like new.

Natural rattan. New ones cost $300! How about just $145 for this one? (706) 369-3523.

Pillowtop Queen Mattress set.

Never used. Still in factory plastic. $260. Full size mattress set. Never used. Still in factory plastic. $160. (706) 769-1959.

Delivery avail.

Tables, chairs, sofas, antiques, clothes, records & players, retro goods, & more! Cool, affordable furniture every day.

Go to Agora! Your favorite ever ything store! 260 W. Clayton St., (706) 316-0130.

Miscellaneous Come to Betty for vintage quilted Chanel bags, just in time for Christmas! On the corner of Pulaski & Clayton, next to Agora. Open 1pm–4pm daily. (706) 424-0566.

TV and Video Get Dish. Free Installation. $19.99/mo. HBO & Showtime Free. Over 50 HD channels Free. Lowest prices. No equipment to buy. Call now for full details (877) 238-8413 (AAN CAN).

Music Equipment Ampeg Bass cabinet. 4 10” & 1 15” speakers. Beat all to hell & sounds great! Considering partial trade for smaller cabinet. $500. Call (706) 296-4034.

Barely used! 1 yr. old Yamaha portable grand piano. DGX, YPG-635 w/ accompaniment module. Weighted 88 keys.

Stand incl. $500. (706) 8500721, or (706) 201-2935.

Gibson Explorer, black w/ black pick guard. Like new, case included. $850. Call Scott at (706) 207-5117.

Instruction Athens School of Music.

Instruction in Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano, Voice, Brass, Woodwinds, Strings, Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle, & more. From beginner to expert. Instrument repairs avail. (706) 543-5800.

Music Services Fret Shop. Professional guitar repairs & modifications, setups, electronics, precision fretwork. Previous clients incl.

R.E.M., Widespread Panic, Cracker, Bob Mould, John Berry, Abbey Road Live!, Squat. (706) 549-1567. ➤ continued on next page

Your own 2BR/1BA house for $575/mo. Quiet location, convenient to everything. Avail. now. Parker & Associates, (706) 546-0600 or visit www. parkerandassociates.com.

Cozy secluded 2BR/1BA. Blvd. area. Walk to Dwntn/campus!

Private fenced backyd. HVAC, W/D conn. Pets allowed. $825/mo. Call Michelle (404) 932-3804.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

37

G u i t a r R e p a i r , setups, electronics & fretwork by 20 yr. pro. Thousands of previous clients. Proceeds help benefit Nuçi’s Space.

Contact Jeff (404) 643-9772 or www.AthensGuitar.com for details.

Looking for a fun, classy alter native to the typical wedding band? If you are looking for “YMCA” t h e n Squat is not your band. If you want Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, & salsa, then visit w w w. s q u a t m e . c o m / weddings. (706) 548-0457.

Wedding Bands. Quality, professional bands. Weddings, parties. Rock, Jazz, etc. Call Classic City Entertainment. ( 7 0 6 ) 5 4 9 - 1 5 6 7 . w w w. classiccityentertainment.com.

Featuring The Magictones— Athens’ premiere wedding & p a r t y b a n d . w w w. themagictones.com.

Services Computer Brand new Desktop PCs. High quality, low prices. 3GHz dual– core, DVD–RW, 2GB RAM, Win7. $400! Professional PC/ Mac/Laptop repair, service, maintenance. Virus? Slow?

Crash? Call! (706) 424-2195.

Health Any type of braid, twists, dreadlocks, & weaves. Very reasonable prices. Providing great looks for men, women, & children. Will travel. Call Coco (706) 352-7816.

Penis enlargement. Gain 1-3” permanently. FDA approved medical vacuum pumps, Testosterone, Viagra, Cialis.

Free brochure. (619) 294-7777, http://www.drjoelkaplan.com.

Discounts avail. (AAN CAN).

Pregnant? Considering adoption? Talk w/ caring agency specializing in matching birthmothers w/ families nationwide. Living expenses paid. Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. (866) 4136293 (AAN CAN).

Home and Garden Backyard Solutions.

Make your neighbors jealous!

Waterfalls, ponds, fences, decks, gazebos, porches, & more! Call Robin for free estimate! (706) 340-4492.

James Wood’s Homes Repairs.

Steps, porches, decks, doors, raised bed gardens, rotten wood, painting, wallpaper re m o v e d , d r y w a l l re p a i r, pressure washing screening.

15yrs. exp. References. (706) 206-5813.

Jobs Full-time 30+ hour position caring for creative, intelligent 4 yr. old girl in our home. Progressive, NS w/ excellent references & d r i v i n g re c o rd re q ’ d .

Apprx. $275/weekly. Contact rabunrabbit@gmail.com.

Holiday Inn is seeking qualified candidates for the following positions: Sous Chef 5 yrs. exp. Supervisory Skills preferred. Salary BOE. Banquet Captain Salary BOE. Please apply in person: 197 E. Broad St. Athens, GA. Email Nicole.brooks@hi-athens.com.

Sexy Suz Adult Emporium now hiring 21+ yr. old for retail positions. Retail experience pref’d. Email resume/photo to sexysuz@comcast.net. No calls. 50 Gaines School Rd. Sales Reps needed! Looking for confident, self motivated, well spoken people. Starting out at $8/hr. + commission.

Experience necessary. Call Kris (770) 560-5653. Weak people need not apply!

Internships Flagpole is looking for an editorial intern to help out in our Music Dept. Candidates must be passionate about local & indie music, organized & driven, proficient w/ computers, & interested in pursuing a career in journalism.

Send a cover letter, resume, & writing samples to music@ flagpole.com.

Opportunities Job opportunities are listed weekly in the F l a g p o l e Classifieds.

Bodyguards Wanted. Free training & Job placement assistance for members. No Experience OK. Excellent potential. FT & PT. Traveling expenses paid. (615) 2281701, www.psubodyguards. com (AAN CAN).

Ear n $75-$200/hr. Media Makeup Artist Training for ads, TV, film, fashion. 1 wk. class.

Stable job in weak economy.

D e t a i l s a t h t t p : / / w w w.

Awardmakeupschool.com, (310) 364-0665 (AAN CAN).

CHECK OUT THE NEWLY UPDATED

FLAGPOLE CLASSIFIEDS NEW FEATURES AVAILABLE IN PRINT AND ONLINE

• PHOTOS • BORDERS

• TOP PLACEMENT • LINKS AND MORE!

CALL PAUL @ 706-549-0301 OR GO TO FLAGPOLE.COM

’ Follow Us On Twitter @PowerAthens Now Streaming Online at...

Powerathens.com 38

FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ DECEMBER 16, 2009

Does your daughter have symptoms of bulimia nervosa? Has your daughter injured herself on purpose?

Researchers at the University of Georgia Psychology C l i n i c a re c o n d u c t i n g a treatment study for teens w/ symptoms of bulimia nervosa & deliberate self harm. Open to teenage girls age 16–18.

Receive $300 upon completion of study!

For more info, pls email the Eating, Drinking, & Personality Research lab at the University of Georgia at bnstudy@uga. edu, or call (706) 542-3827.

Earn extra income assembling CD cases from home. No experience necessary. Call our live operators now. (800) 405-7619 ext. 2450. http:// www.easywork-greatpay.com (AAN CAN).

FLAGPOLE CLASSIFIEDS To place an ad call 706-5490301 or visit flagpole.com.

High School diploma! Fast, affordable & accredited. Free brochure. Call now! (800) 532-6546 ext. 97. Go to http:// www.continentalacademy.com (AAN CAN).

Low Start Up, Huge Profits!

Heater Dealers wanted! #1 Portable Infrared Heater as seen on TV. Don’t miss this Hot Opportunity! Call now (800) 714-8425 (AAN CAN).

Women! Earn $18K–$30K for 6 egg donations w/ the largest agency in the US. Call (800) 444-7119 or apply online at www.theworldeggbank.com (AAN CAN).

Part-time Mystery shoppers earn up to $100/day. Undercover shoppers needed to judge retail & dining establishments.

No exp. req’d. (800) 743-8535.

Southland Graphics is hiring.

Specializing in group designed T-shirts. Is seeking motivated individuals for sales in the Greek community. if interested, pls call (706) 549-4505 or email nazz@southlandgraphics.com.

Vehicles Motorcycles 1997 Kawasaki Ninja. 250cc.

Flat black. Runs great. $995.

Call (706) 372-8819.

For Sale. 2007 250 Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle. Black w/ red flames. Like new, only 14 mi.

Reduced $2K firm. Call (706) 788-3160.

Ya m a h a 6 5 0 V- S t a r Classic. 2001 cruiser.

8K miles, black, excellent condition.

New windshield, luggage rack, & tires. Ridden daily. $2950 firm. (706) 254-6529.

Notices Messages Gain national exposure. Reach over 5 million young, active, educated readers for $995 by advertising in 110 weekly newspapers like this one. (202) 289-8484 (AAN CAN).

Flagpole: How has the economy affected your business?

Sid Howell: The walk-ins, they just [left]—all I get [now] is things that are really broken. It’ll be a good ticket, but

FP: If you could change Athens instantly, what would be the first thing you’d do?

SH: [Make it] more business-friendly… they’ve got some crazy, goofy rules. [Points behind him.] That’s about a two thousand dollar sign sitting right back there… it’s a scrolling board with four-inch letters on it and it was the neatest thing I ever got. It was hooked in my computer; I could put in what message I wanted. People stopped at the red light, there on Prince, they could look at my board. [The county] comes in and tells me “Whatever’s on there has to stay there 30 seconds, and then it can change.” I said that’s the stupidest thing. If you watch the [scrolling signs of the] banks, the time has to sit there 30 damn seconds before it changes to the temperature. Whoever came up with that crap just didn’t have nothing better to do.

GA l

l

A 2 Co nniv 0 th ok er bo sar ok y …

they’re doing anyway. That’s why they screw people; they don’t know how to [be a] mechanic, they’re just thieves.

ts

Sid Howell’s shop isn’t like those of other mechanics. Walk into the office of H&H Automotive and you’ll be greeted by two Daschunds, Mack and Lollie, wagging their tails next to the cage of Sparky, a rosehair tarantula. Follow Sid into the garage and you’ll hear, coming from somewhere in the rafters, the crowing of a crow named Crowe. A few years ago, Sid and his animals used to be located at the corner of Prince Avenue and Barber Street (in the building that now houses Taqueria del Sol), that is, before the building owners doubled the rent and the economy soured. According to Sid, this still beats Dublin, GA, where he was born, raised and employed for 12 years as a laborer in a wool-processing factory. I joined a highly caffeinated Sid in the garage late one afternoon as he finished his daily pot of coffee.

20 s! at ith cipe …w re sale ! w ne on rit w eG No Th

SID HOWELL, MECHANIC

if

everyday people

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new edi t ion cook book

delu xe Gr i t GrAnolA 1.5 lb. bAG

Charles-Ryan Barber

199 P r ince Avenu e

there’s just one here and there. Before, you had oil changes, a belt squeaking, something small. There’d be three or four small things a day. And that little in-between stuff keeps you floating between the big ones. Right now there’s just none of the small stuff… the past six months, I’ve got times when you’ll go two, three days and the phone don’t hardly ring. Before six months ago, there wasn’t a day went by that I didn’t work on at least three cars… now it’s like somebody just turned the faucet off. It was flowing good, I had a steady business… now it’s just like worry, worry. I think I’ve lost about 40 pounds since this crap started.

FP: What kind of additional responsibilities do you have?

SH: It’s just all the stuff that nobody else does. When you work for somebody else, you don’t see all that behind-thescenes stuff that they take care of—especially all the hands out for the taxes. There’s about 12 of them, sticking it out there… It wasn’t that bad at first; when you got your own you get a little enthusiastic about it… man, you marry it. I didn’t realize how many hours you end up putting in.

FP: How many hours do you put in per week?

SH: Uh… I don’t know, 10 and 12 a day, so you can add that up. It’s at least 60; I mean you can put in 60, 70 hours easy.

FP: The prevailing wisdom is that you can’t really trust mechanics. Do you agree with that?

SH: For the bigger part, yeah. It’s just like a doctor—you’d better go get a second, third opinion if you think something don’t sound right… there’s a lot of ‘em out there that give mechanics a bad name. Half of ‘em don’t even know what

FP: Can you tell me more about the spider in the lobby?

SH: Sparky. Sparky was a rescue. I had a friend that’d go into apartments for some realty company around here. They went in to do some painting and cleaning up, and he called me up—this was just before I opened my shop—he said “Somebody left a terrarium back here in the back bedroom, and it’s got a big ‘ol hairy spider in it.” He said “The house is empty, except for this thing.”…I said I’d take it. That’s going on eight years ago.

FP: Do you have any time for hobbies?

SH: No, I don’t have time for ‘em. Seems like all the little stuff I used to do—[which] I didn’t do a whole lot of anyway, but once in awhile I’d break loose, take a day or two off, go to a NASCAR race somewhere. This past year, I’ve had none of that. Hadn’t had no extra money.

FP: What kind of food do you like?

SH: I like Chinese, I like sushi… I’m not real picky about eatin’. I miss the country food like my mother used to make.

Fresh garden vegetables; we used to raise rabbits, domestic rabbits—white meat, it’s like chicken. Never ate a goat, that was just for milk… good ol’ country soul food, I miss that.

That makes my mouth water thinking about it.

FP: How do you think Obama’s doing so far?

SH: Right now I don’t think too much of him. You ain’t gonna make the economy better printing up money. And that’s all they’ve tried to do… I mean, I feel like they’re sitting there telling bald-faced lies sometimes.

Drop/Add UGA Online UGA On Courses C MORE THAN 75 COURSES ONLINE For more information or to register:

www.georgiacenter.uga.edu/flagpole 706-542-3243 1-800-877-3243 See your academic advisor about applying specific IDL courses to your program of study.

Independent and Distance Learning (IDL)

Suite 193 • 1197 South Lumpkin Street • Athens, GA

Jeff Gore

The University of Georgia is committed to principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 · FLAGPOLE.COM

39

R U O Y P O SH

AOTFFH!

THANKS YOU FOR SUPPORTING

SHOP YOUR ATH OFF!,

FLAGPOLE’S MOVEMENT TO ENCOURAGE SPENDING THE AT LOCAL, INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES AND WITH LOCAL ARTISTS WHO ARE THE BACKBONE OF OUR COMMUNITY!

WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE

ECONOMIC HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY WHILE PROTECTING THE INDIE BUSINESSES THAT MAKE OUR CITY UNIQUE. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS: JOHANNA NICOL ANDY TORRES PHIL NOVINGER BARAKA ELIHU

EMILY NUCKOLLS MARLA GETFORD PATRICIA H. VAN GORDER JUSTIN KNOX JONATHAN HAWES LESLIE BUCHANAN HERSCHEL CHAMBERS REBECCA BAGGETT

KIM KAUFFMAN VICKI ESHELMAN HAYLEY BENNETT DAN MATTHEWS

HUNDREDS

OF ATHENIANS MADE THE PLEDGE TO TRY TO SPEND $100 AT ATHENS’ INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

PLEASE COME BY THE FLAGPOLE OFFICE TO CLAIM YOUR GIFT CERTIFICATES OR CALL 706-549-0301.

So whether you are shopping, eating, drinking or seeking entertainment,

THINK LOCAL FIRST! Thanks to the participating local Flagpole advertisers:

283 Bar Advanced Massage Therapies Agua Linda Allen’s Bar & Grill Allgood Lounge American Classic Tattoo Aurum Studios Balance Pilates Barberitos Southwest Cafe Big City Bread Cafe Chastain's Office Furnishing & Supplies Ciné City Salon and Spa

Classic Center Clocked DePalma’s Italian Cafe DowntownAthensGA.com Dynamite Clothing Farm 255 Five Points Bottle Shop Five Star Day Café Flora Hydroponics Frontier Gnats Landing Good Dirt The Grit The Hardcore Gym

Harry Bissett’s Helix Honey's Salon J’s Bottle Shop Jittery Joe's Tasting Room Jot ‘em Down BBQ Junkman’s Daughter’s Brother Kingpins Bowl and Brew Lock Nest Hair Studio Loft Art Supply Masada Leather and Outdoor Musician’s Warehouse Native America Gallery New Earth Music Hall

Pain & Wonder Tattoo Studio P.S. Too RPM R. Wood Studio Ceramics Red Eye Coffee Remedy Herb Shop Republic Salon Rocket Salon Skate Shop of Athens Southern Waterbeds and Futons Speakeasy Terrapin Beer Co.

The National Transmetropolitan Video Link Vision Video Walk the Line Tattoo White Tiger Gourmet Food & Chocolates World of Futons Your Pie

On behalf of Flagpole, we wish you peace and happiness this holiday season, and give our sincerest thanks for your pledge.