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pub notes
THIS WEEK’S ISSUE:
Advocate for Athens
City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
“The proposed Wal-Mart supercenter (the third in this region!) is a very bad idea because: 1. It would bring thousands more cars and trucks a day to already jam-packed, dangerous streets; 2. It could result in a net loss (not gain) in taxes by forcing smaller stores out of business… 3. It would put people out of work or force them to trade good jobs with benefits for hourly, part-time, lowpaying jobs at Wal-Mart; 4. It would mean Wal-Mart’s huge profits would all go to Bentonville, Ark., not Athens-Clarke County; 5. It would be in direct violation of our existing and our new land-use plan, for which we paid a half-million dollars to safeguard the quality of our lives and the value of our homes and businesses; 6. It would result in huge retaining walls and massive hillside cuts and fill, destroying the natural beauty of the area; 7. It would mean that 70 or more acres of land around the Wal-Mart site would also go commercial because, if Wal-Mart is rezoned, a precedent would be set… A Wal-Mart supercenter on the Atlanta Highway? Totally unacceptable!” This letter to the Banner-Herald was written in 1999 by Burt Sparer, who at the time was president of the Federation of Neighborhood Associations. Burt was summing up the group’s objections to building a Walmart off the Atlanta Highway, in the Mitchell Bridge Road vicinity. They won that fight, because the project required rezoning. Burt Spararer died right before Christmas this year, and probably few in the present Walmart fight know who he was. That’s understandable, because such struggles are in the moment, aimed at the future, not the past. Even so, we start from a better position, with stronger laws in place, and we benefit from the commitment and effort people like Burt have put in before us to pave the way. Burt was a professional planner who aided local governments all over Northeast Georgia in a variety of capacities. When he retired, he put his time and talents into efforts to improve his own community, working through the precursor to Community Connection, the Mental Health Association and the Federation of Neighborhoods, among others. Burt was by dint of long hard work and travel an expert on local government. That made him really valuable as an ally when citizen groups found themselves up against developers bent on destroying their neighborhoods. When Burt was getting started, all the balance was tipped toward the developers. Local government was dominated by them, and citizens had few counterweights. Gradually, people like Burt started getting neighborhoods familiar with techniques for exerting citizen influence, and that citizen influence was felt, for instance, when Athens Regional Medical Center was stopped from wholesale destruction of homes on King Avenue, in Five Points when Eckerd was convinced not to build where the fire station eventually went, and in many other land use issues. Burt was a big guy, and we stand on his shoulders. It’s because of people like Burt that we have a history of citizens demanding and getting results, and we can hope citizens will have an effect on the current Walmart “right idea in the wrong place.” There was something else about Burt that we can all benefit from, too. He was strong and insistent in his advocacy. He was concerned about his town, but he was concerned, too, about the people who make up the community. He had a way of getting down to issues but also being open to the concerns of the human beings who were grappling with those problems. He might ask you, “How’s it going?” But he would also ask you, “How’re you doing?” And he wouldn’t accept a facile answer to either question. Maybe that’s why his impact was so great, because ultimately he understood that a community is not an abstract entity but a group of people trying to figure out how to live their lives together. Because he cared about both dimensions, Burt Sparer was a leader and a healer. It’s because of people like Burt that we have the kind of community we enjoy here, and why we have an obligation to continue trying to make it better for us all. Pete McCommons editor@flagpole.com
News & Features Athens News and Views
Selig’s massive development continued to be a hot topic over the holidays, but we still haven’t seen the results of the developer’s traffic study.
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CITY DOPE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 CAPITOL IMPACT. . . . . . . . . . . . 4 CITY PAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 ATHENS RISING . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 WORLD VIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 GOOGLE THAT SH!T . . . . . . . . . 8 GRUB NOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 FILM NOTEBOOK. . . . . . . . . . . . 9 MOVIE DOPE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 MOVIE PICK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 THREATS & PROMISES. . . . . . 12
OCCUPY THE DEBATE. . . . . . . 12 PIANO ACROSS AMERICA. . . . 13 SARAH JAROSZ. . . . . . . . . . . . 15 THE CALENDAR!. . . . . . . . . . . 16 BULLETIN BOARD. . . . . . . . . . 20 ART AROUND TOWN . . . . . . . . 21 COMICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 REALITY CHECK. . . . . . . . . . . 23 CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 CROSSWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 COALITIONS AGAINST COAL . . 26 EVERYDAY PEOPLE. . . . . . . . . 27
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 Jessica Smith ASSISTANT OFFICE MANAGER Sydney Slotkin AD DESIGNERS Kelly Ruberto, Cindy Jerrell CARTOONISTS Cameron Bogue, Lee Gatlin, Missy Kulik, Jeremy Long, David Mack, Clint McElroy ADOPT ME Special Agent Cindy Jerrell CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brown, Kevin Craig, Tom Crawford, Carrie Dagenhard, Gwynne Dyer, David Eduardo, Derek Hill, John Huie, Jyl Inov, Gordon Lamb, Emily Patrick, Matthew Pulver, Richard Milligan, Drew Wheeler, Kevan Williams, Alec Wooden CIRCULATION Charles Greenleaf, Jesse Mangum, John Richardson, Will Donaldson WEB DESIGNER Kelly Ruberto CALENDAR Jessica Smith ADVERTISING INTERN Morgan Guritz MUSIC INTERNS Jodi Murphy, Ryan Anderson
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Athens News and Views
More Talk Than Action
Plenty has happened during the two weeks and commissioners weren’t impressed with the since we last checked in on the downtown well-reasoned and well-articulated arguments Selig development. Just before Christmas, by the dozen or so Athenians who lined up to the Atlanta firm posted previously unseen address them, then the anti-public art crowd elevation renderings on its local PR website must be a persuasive lot indeed. (www.seligathens.com), including views from Two nights later—in a meeting to which Wilkerson and Oconee streets and the planned members of the press and government officials rail-trail extension of the Greenway. Of course, were not among the 45 people invited by the perspectiveless, straight-on illustrations organizer Bob Sleppy—Chitty and Scott Selig, can’t purport to show what the edifices will also a VP of his family’s company, addressed look like in real life: to attain the viewpoint a crowd of community members gathered in represented in the panoramic Wilkerson Street a rented-out Nuçi’s Space, across the street elevation, for instance, one would have to be from the site of their proposed development. suspended about 40 feet in the air above the Then, they heard the testimony of a handful of North Oconee River, and the Waterford Place local experts on urban design, environmental apartments would have to be taken out of the impacts of development, transportation and way. From the street for which the rendering is traffic, as well as presentations on neighbornamed, the building will look like what it is: hood, business and civic character issues. a sheer, five-story brick wall giving way to Perhaps for the first time, high-ranking Selig eight splendid bays of visible parking and culexecutives were given serious professional minating, nearly a city block later, in another criticism of their plan, as it pertains exactly sheer wall. When you go to the site and look to Athens and its downtown, from heavily at the renderings—and you should—keep that credentialed authorities entirely outside their in mind; the tiny people at the bottoms of own purview. the illustrations will help give you an idea of The fact that the meeting was closed to what’s being proposed. the public and the press is a problem. As Right about the time those renderings the commission meeting earlier in the week were released, an Athens Banner-Herald article showed, this development commands intense helpfully entitled “Walmart only option for community interest, and it’s very obvious downtown Athens development” reported that the community wants to be involved in that Selig VP Jo Ann Chitty “approached discussions about how it will evolve. But if, other grocers about leasing a 94,000-squareas Sleppy contends, conducting these interacfoot space at the proposed tions in a bubble was the Oconee Street development, only way for them to happen Selig was given but none of them were at all, then it’s probably a interested.” As Chitty put it, good thing they did. Still, serious professional “Walmart was the only one Selig won’t be accountable criticism of its plan… for having heard all this cruthat was willing to adapt to an urban design”—which cial input until it’s a matter might have prompted the question: to which of public record. It’s now time for the particiof these mutually exclusive conditions were pants in last week’s meeting to share their the unnamed grocers unwilling to agree: a knowledge with the rest of the community, 94,000-square-foot space or an urban design? with Selig’s acknowledgment that it’s listenChitty, unfortunately, did not elaborate. The ing. Scott Selig’s Dec. 4 Banner-Herald editogood news? That sheer wall at the corner of rial concluded, “We look forward to working Wilkerson and Oconee is apparently being with the greater Athens community to develop reconsidered, as architects look for ways to a project that is good for downtown, good for imbue the five-story Walmart parking deck Athens, and good for the region.” He and his with “more of a pedestrian scale.” Seriously. family’s company must now be compelled to And so, last week, with Selig’s PR make good on that promise. onslaught thus humming along unchalIt seems highly unlikely that Selig’s traffic lenged and local elected officials—those study, which must be approved by the state not actively enabling the developer’s plans, transportation department and must follow that is—content to wait for the release of standard guidelines laid out in a manual by Selig’s long-promised traffic study before the Institute of Traffic Engineers, will find reopening their “negotiations” with the firm, that Oconee Street can handle the added trafconcerned citizens attempted to step into the fic load that this project, as planned, would breach. At the ACC Mayor and Commission’s bring. Additionally, its impacts on important Jan. 3 meeting, citizens aligned with People civic assets like the Greenway and the multifor a Better Athens, the group led by Russell modal center—which have already been paid Edwards that has circulated a petition opposfor with taxpayer dollars—are not to be ing the “anchoring” of the development with a discounted. This must be taken as the oppor94,000-square-foot Walmart, packed the comtunity for real community input that we have mission chamber at City Hall as Edwards delivthus far been denied. ered the petition, bearing more than 17,000 Commissioners have to insist that members names, to the M&C. of the community be a part of the process On a night when two commissioners, Kathy of redesigning the complex if and when it Hoard and Kelly Girtz, explained that they becomes necessary, and it’s their responsibility were voting against their personal beliefs to bring the developer to the table in actual not to fund public art at ACC’s new jail in negotiations to protect our long-term interests deference to the “overwhelming” number of as a community. Incentives should be offered, constituents who’d expressed their outrage if necessary, for Selig to turn their developover the proposal—”hundreds,” as Hoard put ment into something that sanely and posiit—it was tempting to imagine that Edwards’ tively interfaces with the city that surrounds passionately committed group—so often it. Selig has promised that its intention is denigrated in the local media as “the antito make Athens better, but make no mistake: Walmart crowd”—might not, after all, be as we’re going to have to hold them to it. easily marginalized as the narrative pushed by Selig and its shills would have it. If the mayor Dave Marr news@flagpole.com
4
FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
Georgia’s legislators will do plenty of talking about the major issues that confront them during the General Assembly session that kicked off this week. When it comes to actually passing legislation that would do something about these issues, however, the odds are much lower that lawmakers’ actions will match their words. You shouldn’t expect to see the passage of many significant bills this year. A big reason for this is that 2012 is an election year in which the seats of all 236 senators and representatives will be up for grabs. Lawmakers will want to end the session quickly so they can once again solicit contributions and get their reelection campaigns underway. Last year’s redrawing of political boundary lines also means that many legislators will be running in districts with a large number of people that they’ve never represented before. I don’t think an incumbent lawmaker will want to explain to a new constituent why he or she voted for a controversial bill that got the folks back home riled up. You will certainly hear Gov. Nathan Deal and the General Assembly leadership talking about their desire to ratchet up the state sales tax so that they can reduce the state income tax. The drive to enact this revision of the tax code foundered last year, but some lawmakers are still pushing for that kind of tax shift. They’ve been surfacing proposals to reinstate the sales tax on groceries, raise the overall state sales tax from 4 percent to 5 percent, and increase the excise tax on cigarettes by $1 a pack. Most of the leadership has indicated they won’t support those tax increases—which effectively puts a reduction in the income tax out of reach. Deal’s media spokesman has already said the governor won’t sign a tax increase. “I would be opposed to that, although I think that it is important that we continue to have a discussion about what sort of tax
system we want to have in Georgia,” Speaker David Ralston said when asked about reinstating the grocery tax. “Putting the sales tax back on groceries is a non-starter for me,” Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle said. The one tax revision measure that has a fair chance of passing is the elimination of the state sales tax on energy purchased by manufacturers and farmers, which would result in an estimated $150 million reduction in state revenues. You won’t see much action this year on another issue that consumed every lawmaker’s attention last year: keeping undocumented immigrants out of Georgia. Legislators are not expected to go back and make any major changes in the state’s new immigration law, despite the adverse impact it had on the state’s farmers. Instead, they will sit back and see if a federal court in Atlanta continues to block some of the law’s provisions. “I think that it is premature to go back and revisit that issue this session,” Ralston said. “My view is, we let the court case take its course and wait a little while to gather some more evidence about the impact that this is really having.” Deal may have some success in his push for changes in the state’s sentencing laws so that fewer people are sent to prison while drug addicts and non-violent offenders are diverted into alternative treatment programs. Legislators could also find themselves voting on a new law that would allow just about anyone to carry a firearm in public without having to bother with such things as fingerprinting, background checks of their criminal arrest records, or obtaining a concealed weapons permit. At this point in time, it appears we will have a relatively quiet legislative session. Let’s see how long that prediction holds. Tom Crawford tcrawford@gareport.com
city pages The meeting was well-attended by citizens who oppose Selig Enterprises’ proposed retail/ apartment development adjacent to downtown. The project was not on the commission’s agenda (and it’s unclear how commissioners would stop it anyway), but opponents filled the chamber, and some spoke during the open Spend $50,000 of tax money for public comment opportunity at meeting’s end. Others art at Athens-Clarke County’s long-planned held signs (“Think Outside the Big Box”) and new jail? Hell no, say many citizens who stood in opposition. have contacted their commissioners about “I fell in love with this town,” said Ryan this apparently burning issue. “I’ve received Fritz, decrying the “injustice” of “putting a phone calls, emails, U.S. Mail letters and Walmart in between Jittery Joe’s and Weaver stops on the street,” longtime Commissioner D’s.” Attorney Russell Edwards presented a Kathy Hoard said at last week’s meeting of the petition of over 17,000 names of people who ACC Mayor and Commission, from “people I oppose a downtown Walmart. don’t generally hear from—people who have “We can do better,” he said, while acknowlremained silent on the hundreds of issues” edging “it would be a big convenience to the local government has considered over the many residents.” He asked commissioners to years. Hoard said that she personally favors “pass legislation to compel Selig Enterprises installing art in public areas of the jail—and to shrink the size of their anchor tenant.” would be willing to contribute her own money Others also said the footprint is too large, to it—but will vote and cited Walmart’s low against public funding, pay scale, its reputation “A representative’s given the “overwhelming” for destroying local busiopposition. responsibility is not only nesses and for abandoning “A representative’s stores quickly (as it did its responsibility is not only to make decisions based Atlanta Highway store). to make decisions based Selig has shared its on personal views…” on personal views and life general plans but has not experiences—along with filed for county permits information and study materials provided—but (except a demolition permit for buildings on also to listen to the people,” she said. But the site, and that was held up for 90 days at commissioners are divided on the question. the behest of commissioners Alice Kinman and “We’re not talking about making the lives Kelly Girtz). Can commissioners stop the projof our prisoners happier,” said Commissioner ect, or modify it—even presuming a majority Ed Robinson, but rather about making Athens of them want to? more attractive to visitors (the jail is visible “It’s hard to answer that question,” ACC from incoming airplanes landing at AthensPlanning Director Brad Griffin told Flagpole, Ben Epps Airport, Robinson noted, although because Selig has not yet submitted its plans not from Lexington Road). “Athens is a pretty for county approval. But the proposal Selig ugly town to drive in,” he added: “It’s one has publicized is “less than half the size of step up from Augusta.” the Walmart on the Eastside,” he noted, and The commission voted against funding, but is well under downtown’s limits for building the question will be decided next month after size—which allows buildings to be multiple Commissioner Jared Bailey requested a reconstories in height (up to 100 feet), and to sideration of the 6–4 vote, having misundertotal five times the square footage of the stood the motion. land parcel they’re built on. Downtown zoning
Mayor, Commission Hear from Citizens on Jail Art, Development
requirements haven’t changed significantly for a decade, he said. If Selig’s plans meet current zoning regulations—unless they ask for specific “variances” or exemptions—the question would never even go to the commission, but would be approved automatically. (Some minor variances could go before the Hearings Board.) The developer will have to submit a study of projected traffic impacts—and pay for additional traffic lanes or signals, if needed—but that’s a matter to be decided between Selig and the Georgia Department of Transportation, not Athens-Clarke County, Griffin said. And because Selig is preparing its plans based on what Griffin’s department has told it about ACC requirements, the county attorney believes the developer already has “vested rights” to proceed with its plans—even though it hasn’t yet submitted them—and ACC could not legally change the requirements
this late in the game. In any case, changing downtown’s zoning requirements would require Planning Commission consideration, and would take at least 90 days, Griffin said; if Selig submitted its plans in the meantime, the existing regulations would certainly apply. Have any ACC commissioners asked the planning department about how zoning requirements might be modified? They have not, he said. Also last week, several commissioners asked for the commission’s standing Legislative Review Committee (which consists of half the 10 commissioners) to determine whether community gardens—and the sale of vegetables from them—are legal under county ordinances. If not, the ordinances might be changed. “My own vegetable garden might be against the ordinance,” said Commissioner Alice Kinman. John Huie
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Jane Jacobs’ seminal work, The Death and Life of Great framework has been undergoing the death of a thousand cuts, American Cities, just turned 50 a few months back, and while as essential streets and connections which contribute to the the occasion went unmarked in this column at the time, recent health of the system are slowly whittled away. Similarly to events have gotten me thinking about how her ideas have ecology, though, “shifting baseline syndrome” is a big issue, been carried forward over time, and ultimately corrupted. It’s and memory of what was doesn’t go back far enough. And so, been a slow progression over the last half-century, as her we continually accept more and more impaired iterations of observational urbanism was adapted into the more codified what was originally vibrant. New Urbanism and Smart Growth approaches, which ultiIf we’re going to move from meeting each crisis with mild mately have become mere marketing tools. It’s the planning appeasement and mitigating each individual loss to actually equivalent of “greenwashing,” where questionable sustaingrowing our community economically and culturally, we have ability claims are used to sell products that are inherently to look at what makes a successful and dynamic urban frameunsustainable. work, actually prioritize it rather than paying it lip service, and While Selig and the gang would have us believe that their then enforce those priorities. Those priorities should include shopping center is an extension of downtown, an urban project a seamless, multi-modal connectivity, with good streets and utilizing New Urbanist thinking to fit in and embrace the city, plenty of redundancy in connections. Overlaying that are the pointing to a few mixed-use buildings as evidence, this is not linked issues of scale, density and age. Dynamic urban environthe case. Even the Mall of Georgia, quintessentially opposite to ments are determined to a great degree by the plats and propthe Main Street model of commerce, has a little “downtown” erty lines which originally established them. Those narrow lots wedged between the parking lots and the big box. “Lifestyle and a complex ownership landscape ultimately do an excellent centers”—a euphemism for this sort of artificial Main Street— job of regulating height, use and density, and allow for the had been picking up as a New-Urbanist skin on the American kind of diversity in age and cost that Jacobs documented shopping mall. However, it’s the underlying dynamic, more than the architecture, that defines the way a place will actually function. Make no mistake, Selig is building a lifestyle-center shopping mall on the outskirts of downtown. The kernel that Jacobs and other early documenters of urban life really focused on was the nearly ecological nature of cities, with an orderly chaos of intricate interactions among diverse webs of interlocking factors. While mixed-use buildings are a manifestation and a potential indicator of a dynamic urban neighborhood, they are not equivalent to one, in the same way that simply because one plants oak trees in their yard, they have not actually created a living forest ecosystem. Whether Selig spends 80 The truly mixed-use urban environments of downtowns like ours are products of well connected streets and million or 800 million on that small lots. While Selig claims its shopping center will look like downtown, its underlying DNA is totally different. site, they won’t create a real neighborhood, only a shopping center. You can’t build neighborhoods from the ground up; they 50 years ago. Selig has the opportunity to create a similar must be grown, organically over time, in the same way that vibrancy by incorporating some of the historic structures on you can’t construct a living tree, no matter how much money the site; unfortunately, as builders of shopping centers, this is you spend on it. Two-by-fours nailed back together do not a foreign notion to them. recombine into a pine tree. What we can do is prepare the soil, Even the once-mighty Sears, Roebuck and Co. has now lost so that when the right seeds fall, they grow rather than wither. its hegemony, and so too will Walmart. Whether they occupy Until one understands why community is so precious and this development for 10 or 30 or 50 years, one day they won’t, rare, it’s really hard to see the value of it. It’s the distincand what happens then? City Hall East, the massive Sears tion between building and growing that people like Selig warehouse in Atlanta, was underutilized for decades, awaiting and Athens Banner-Herald editorial page editor Jim Thompson the right redevelopment scheme. Selig is building its own so completely fail to grasp. Interestingly, both have mistaken version. The Banner-Herald’s state-of-the-art building was the raw matter of historic landmarks in the area for the comlikewise out of date as soon as it was finished, and never fully plex ideas that they embody. Thompson continually suggests occupied. It took 20 years for debt-ridden Morris Publishing to chopping up local landmarks and selling them off as paperfinally recognize and unload that albatross. It remains to be weights—including the St. Mary’s Episcopal Steeple and, most seen whether their respective new owners will be able to adapt recently, the Georgia Railroad Trestle in Dudley Park—as if this these out-of-scale structures to new life; however, the solution were somehow equivalent to preserving them or relevant to the will almost certainly involve decentralization, breaking them community’s valuation of them. Likewise, Selig has suggested up into smaller and more flexible pieces. that reuse of bricks from the National Register historic buildEverything is changing constantly, and whether this city ings they intend to demolish is somehow a useful idea. But old will evolve as successfully as its namesake has over the milbricks are simply clay, with no memory of what they used to lennia depends on whether or not we can plan a truly adaptbe: ashes to ashes, dust to dust, as it were. If these places are able framework. The city is a living place, and we must start not part of the living meta-organism that is a community, they thinking and working within an ecological rather than a simply are simply raw matter. architectural paradigm if we want it to grow. It’s a deceptively Jacobs’ and the New Urbanists’ most compelling ideas were simple idea. based on creating a framework for future growth and evolution, the “good soil” in which community can grow. Our local Kevan Williams athensrising@flagpole.com
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world view Religion Equals Morality? In the United States, where it is almost impossible to get elected unless you profess a strong religious faith, it would have passed completely unnoticed. Not one of the 100 U.S. senators ticks the “No Religion/Atheist/ Agnostic” box, for example, although 16 percent of the American population do. But it was quite remarkable in Britain. Just before Christmas, in Oxford, Prime Minister David Cameron declared that the United Kingdom is a Christian country, “and we should not be afraid to say so.” He was speaking on the 400th anniversary of the King James translation of the Bible, so he had to say something positive about religion—but he went far beyond that. “The Bible has helped to give Britain a set of values and morals which make Britain what it is today,” he said. “Values and morals we should actively stand up and defend.” Where to start? The King James Bible was published at the start of a century in which millions of Europeans were killed in religious wars over minor differences of doctrine. Thousands of “witches” were burned at the stake during the 16th century, as were thousands of “heretics.” They have stopped doing that sort of thing in Britain now—but they’ve also stopped reading the Bible. Might there be a connection here? Besides, what Cameron said is just not true. In last year’s British Social Attitudes Survey, conducted annually by the National Centre for Social Research, only 43 percent of 4,000 British people interviewed said they were Christian, while 51 percent said they had “no religion.” Among young people, some two-thirds are non-believers. Mind you, the official census numbers from 2001 say that 73 percent of British people identify themselves as “Christian.” However, this is probably due to a leading question on the census form. “What is your religion?” it asks, which seems to assume that you must have one—especially since it follows a section on ethnic origins, and we all have those. So, a lot of people put down Christian just because that is the ancestral religion of their family. Make the question more neutral—“Are you religious? If so, what is your religion?”— and the result would probably be very different. There were attempts to get that more neutral question onto the 2011 census form, but the churches lobbied frantically against it. They are feeling marginalised enough as it is. Why would David Cameron proclaim the virtues of a Christian Britain that no longer exists? He is no religious fanatic; he describes himself as a “committed” but only “vaguely practising” Christian. You’d think that if he really believed in a God who scrutinises his every thought and deed, and will condemn him to eternal
torture in Hell if he doesn’t meet the standard of behaviour required, he might be a little less vague about it all. But he doesn’t really believe that he needs religion himself; he thinks it is a necessary instrument of social control for keeping the lower orders in check. This is a common belief among those who rule, because they confuse morality with religion. If the common folk do not fear some god (any old god will do), social discipline will collapse, and the streets will run with blood. Our homes, our children, even our domestic animals will be violated. Thank god for God. Just listen to Cameron: “The alternative of moral neutrality should not be an option. You can’t fight something with nothing. If we don’t stand for something, we can’t stand against anything.” The “alternative of moral neutrality?” What he means is that there cannot be moral behaviour without religion—so you proles had better go on believing, or we privileged people will be in trouble. But Cameron already lives in a post-religious country. Half its people say outright that they have no religion; two-thirds of them never attend a religious service, and a mere 8 percent go to church, mosque, synagogue or temple on a weekly basis. Yet the streets are not running with blood. Indeed, religion may actually be bad for morality. In 2005 Paul Gregory made the case for this in a research paper in the Journal of Religion and Society entitled “Cross-National Correlations of Quantifiable Societal Health with Popular Religiosity and Secularism in the Prosperous Democracies: A First Look.” Sociological gobbledygook, but in a statistical survey of 18 developed democracies, Gregory showed that “In general, higher rates of belief in and worship of a creator correlate with higher rates of homicide, juvenile and early adult mortality, (venereal disease), teen pregnancy and abortion.” Even within the United States, Gregory reported, “the strongly theistic, anti-evolution South and Midwest” have markedly worse crime rates and social problems than the relatively secular Northeast. Of course, the deeply religious areas are also poorer, so it might just be poverty making people behave so badly. On the other hand, maybe religion causes poverty. Whatever. The point is that David Cameron, and thousands of other politicians, religious leaders and generals in every country, are effectively saying that my children, and those of all the other millions who have no religion, are morally inferior to those who do. It is insulting and untrue.
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google that sh!t Search: Voter suppression laws There are all sorts of ways to win elections. There’s the high road: contrasting one’s policy differences and visions for the future with those of the opponent. The low road: rumors and innuendo, mudslinging and whisper campaigns. Then there’s the lowest road, known mostly to incipient totalitarian regimes and rogue states. That lowest road is to orchestrate victory by manipulating the voting process itself. To steal elections, in other words. This is the tack taken by the contemporary Republican Party, which has in the past few years systematically removed the right to vote from potentially millions of traditionally Democratic voters in over a dozen states. Over a dozen Republican-dominated state legislatures have in recent years devised a set of new obstacles to voting. The new laws range from shortened early voting periods and new voter registration impediments to much more odious photo ID requirements. Republicans were stung by widened voting in 2008, when new voters and easy access to the polls put Barack Obama in the White House and gave Democrats hefty majorities in each house of Congress. More Americans voting is better for the Democratic Party, whose policies tend to favor, in protest parlance, “the 99 percent.” The GOP realizes more than ever that it’s a numbers game. Thirty years of catering to religious fundamentalism, race-baiting and hardening adherence to neoliberal dogma has left the GOP with only middle-aged white males as a reliable voting bloc, and as the country’s demographics shift, the party’s success will catastrophically erode. The election of President Obama presaged the tectonic shift approaching, and the GOP went into panic mode, it seems. Following the trail blazed by Georgia, Republican-led statehouses around the country have worked to dramatically reduce the number of Americans—especially Democratic-leaning groups—in voting booths in November. In 2005, Georgia got the vote-suppression ball rolling by passing its voter ID law, the first of its kind. Rather than the 15 or so forms of identification previously accepted (birth certificates, social security cards or even power bills, for instance), the new law demanded that voters present an up-to-date, state-issued photo ID. For citizens without a current driver’s license—disproportionately the rural elderly and urban minorities—this amounts to disenfranchisement. The voter ID law effectively reinstates the Jim Crow-era poll tax. In fact, the new photo ID-based laws tread so closely to Jim Crow that the Voting Rights Act of 1965 stipulated that the Department of Justice intervene in South Carolina’s recently passed voter ID law due to its disproportionate effect on the state’s black citizens. In presidential and congressional swing states like Wisconsin, Florida and others, vote-suppression laws could very well steer the country quite decisively in a direction the numerical majority oppose. The 2000 election that brought George W. Bush to the White House was ultimately decided by a margin of 537 votes in Florida. The battle for the White House—and party strategists know this—comes down to a veritable handful of districts in swing states. Through GOP machinations, the presidential election might be over before the campaigns even start. But is the GOP playing with fire? Like, literally? Imagine a scenario in which President Obama is unseated in November, not due to a relative deficiency in his message, but due directly to the GOP’s disenfranchisement efforts. Already, we’ve seen Americans come forward with stories of how they’ve been denied a chance to vote due to the new laws (Google “Dorothy Cooper”). What happens when slim GOP margins in crucial states are accompanied by thousands of Dorothy Coopers who come forward with shocking stories of their denied rights? What happens if the GOP is successful? It’s not difficult to imagine an explosion that makes the Occupy protests look like a tea party. Many will feel, quite rightly, that the election was a theft, and appropriate action will be taken. Does the GOP think it’s worth it? Matthew Pulver
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grub notes
film notebook
2011 Roundup
News of Athens’ Cinema Scene
Heirloom Cafe and Fresh Market opened in a renovated gas station at the corner of Chase and Boulevard, bringing new life to a lot that had been an eyesore for years. Its ambitions were large (to prepare foods and provide groceries on the side—all based on local, sustainable ingredients made with care), but many of them were fulfilled. Many of the dinner items are excellent—breakfast perhaps even more so because of the lower pricepoint. Lunch has nice sandwiches and pretty little side dishes. The people involved care about obscure grains, and they love vegetables. Ted’s Most Best, the pizza place from Jessica Greene and Jay Totty (both of The Grit) in a gorgeously renovated industrial space, continues to charm thoroughly. Its pizza is simple and excellent. Its salads are enormous and beautiful. Its desserts are cute; its staff enthusiastic and friendly. Sakura Steak House is tucked away next to a dollar store, a computer repair shop and a sporting goods retailer that has a lot of hunting supplies, none of which would seem to bode well, but the sushi and all of the other offerings are prepared by serious, detailoriented chefs. Kabana, on Tallassee Road, is an endless source of frustration, with its inconsistent hours, weird service and so on, but it is also worth the trouble, with wonderful Indian cuisine (both veg and non) and equally delicious Jamaican cooking. Etienne Brasserie, which replaced the Cotton Club downtown, is the French restaurant mentioned above. Not everything is executed to perfection, but many dishes are very good, and the porc mignon is more than that. Viva Argentine Cuisine, on the Eastside, is a funny little place with some things worth going a little out of your way for, like its Argentine cheesesteak, one of the best sandwiches in Athens, and its nicely cooked meats. Plus, its mini-cupcakes are super cute. The Georgia Theatre Restaurant, run by Ken Manring of White Tiger, that sits atop the Georgia Theatre, has a tiny menu, but everything is well executed. It’s a great place to get a vegetarian or BBQ sandwich and an amazing view of our town. Sr. Sol opened a second location, on Broad Street, in the former digs of El Patron, with food as good as and atmosphere more pleasant than its original. Also expanding were Big Easy Café, with an Athens location on Baxter; Keba, with two new franchises; The Blind Pig, where McAlister’s Deli had been, on Broad; Yoforia, with a new location in the downtown deck; Ike & Jane, with a mini-branch in the renovated Georgia Museum of Art (and soon to be running OK Coffee downtown); Donderos’ Kitchen, which is now running the café at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia; and Butt Hutt BBQ, which opened in the Macon Highway location of Jot ‘Em Down at the very
end of the year and should be finishing up its move down Baxter Street in March. In other yogurt news, YoDawgs on Baxter, Menchie’s in Beechwood and Georgetown Square and Polarberry at Timothy and Atlanta Highway added more of the sweet stuff to our town, with more planned to open. George’s Lowcountry Table and Sisters Creole Market served up their own versions of Low Country and Cajun cuisines. Watkinsville gained Kumquat Mae, a bakery and café, Acapulco’s Mexican Grill and Dominick’s Italian Cuisine, a chain out of the Atlanta area. Stuffed Burger opened on Baxter in the former Falafel King, putting its toppings inside its patties and retailing awesome whoopie pies. The Dogg Pound took over Hollis Ribs on Broad, near Hancock, doing a kajillion different kinds of hot dogs with style. Team Biscuits and Burgers started a local drivethrough on Danielsville Road, and Talk of the Town Country Cooking opened in what had been Gateway Café for years, nearby. Farther afield, Big Al’s BBQ Pit cooks up great ribs and good pork in Statham, Bubba’s BBQ operates out of an auction house in Arnoldsville, and Wok Star is about the only game in town in Winterville these days, doing some pretty good Chinese. Al’s #1 Italian Beef and Gigi’s Cupcakes opened franchises downtown. The Volstead put significant dollars into a bar and restaurant on Clayton downtown. The Local Jam took over the old Five Points Deli spot on Milledge, rolling a badass breakfast burrito. Honey B’s Deli serves soul food and breakfast on Prince, Little Cuckoo Chocolates does sandwiches as well as sweets in the Chase Street Warehouses, and Yummy Bites cooks burgers and more on the Thomas Street end of Clayton. Also open in 2011: Sweet Pepper’s Deli, China 1, Grilled Teriyaki and The Tap Room in the Georgian. We Said Bye-Bye To: Wilson’s Soul Food (sigh), Off the Hook Steak and Seafood, Flight Tapas and Bar, the Prince Avenue Huddle House, the Iron Grill (where Casa Mia is due to open), Marble Slab, Uncle Jerry’s Biscuits and Burgers, Dari Delite, Allen’s (again, sigh), Pupuseria El Coquito (replaced by The Food Palace), Reds, the Daily Neighborhood Deli, the European Deli, Totonno’s Famous Meatballs, Toshiro and, at the end of the year, Black Forest Bakery. Farm 255 hired Whitney Otawka as its new chef, meaning a new menu. Fooks Foods moved across town to South Milledge. Doc Chey’s became Chango’s Noodle House and Espresso Royale Caffe turned into Jittery Joe’s, with little changing apart from their names. White Tiger added Sunday brunch and dinner Thursday–Saturday. On the horizon in 2012 are a lot more franchises, some in the deck and some not, but also Marker 7 Coastal Grill in Five Points, from the folks who brought you Hilltop Grille, which appears to have received its building permit and should be something interesting. This year, I wish for Greek food (again), a Korean mega-grocery store like Super H or Assi (which could be a real alternative to Walmart), and an Athens location of Farm Burger. It could happen! Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com
Another One Down: I always feel like I’m making excuses when I assemble my yearend top-ten lists, apologizing—mostly to myself, probably—for not seeing all the new movies I’d have liked to over the previous 12 months. That’s especially the case this time around: bringing a new human into the world, as Mrs. Film Notebook and I did in 2011, tends to reorganize your priorities in some delightfully disruptive ways. Even with a holiday-season push to catch up on the year’s important releases, I still missed more than I can be happy about. Certified Copy, Mysteries of Lisbon, Poetry, Cave of Forgotten Dreams and Weekend are among the new films I had the opportunity to see in 2011 and most regret missing (not counting end-of-the-year releases like Young Adult and Tintin), but I’ll watch them soon. For now, forgive me, and keep in mind that my list might look different if I’d seen them. More than what we saw in 2011, the year’s biggest story was how we see films, as digital projection all but completed its takeover of theatrical exhibition and online streaming made enormous strides toward replacing DVDs as the standard for home viewing. But that stuff is no fun to talk about when you’re trying to make a list; we’ll get back to it later, along with bitching about Netflix, I’m sure. I should also mention that there were several 2010 releases that I didn’t get to see until this past year which would surely be on this list if I counted them, like Carlos and True Grit. And finally, Edward Yang’s 1991 masterpiece A Brighter Summer Day, one of the best movies I have ever seen, had its firstever (as yet, still extremely limited) U.S. theatrical release last year. If I didn’t think it was cheating, that would have topped my list. Here it is:
7. The Future Miranda July’s second feature makes clear that the director/writer/performer has become one of the most original and compelling voices in American film. 8. The Illusionist Sylvain Chomet’s lovely and heartbreaking second full-length animated film, from an unproduced script by Jacques Tati, is even better than his feature debut, 2003’s far more widely acclaimed The Triplets of Belleville. 9. Tuesday, After Christmas Radu Muntean’s unblinking portrait of a middleaged man in an extramarital affair is more evidence of the vitality of the ongoing Romanian New Wave. 10. Le Quattro Volte I haven’t had a chance to see The Artist yet, but it would have to be pretty great to top Michelangelo Frammartino’s sweet and witty film as 2011’s Best Picture with No Dialogue. 11. Super 8, War Horse I know: more cheating. But I couldn’t let it go unacknowledged that Super 8, JJ Abrams’ homage/ pastiche/copy has more heart, sincerity and legitimate drama than any Spielberg film since Raiders of the Lost Ark. And so does War Horse. Honorable Mention: Beginners; Bridesmaids; Cedar Rapids; Cold Weather; Crazy, Stupid, Love; Margin Call; Midnight in Paris; Somewhere; Tiny Furniture; Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives Take Note: I’m introducing the first film in Ciné’s Classic Film Noir Series, Howard Hawks’ 1946 Raymond Chandler adaptation The Big Sleep. If you’ve never seen it, you
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1. Melancholia Lars von Trier’s majestic film proposes what could be the director’s signature joke: the apocalypse as a cure for clinical depression. 2. The Tree of Life Terrence Malick’s colossal autobiography-as-universal-origin-story captures memory’s vivid comHumphrey Bogart fends off a precocious Martha Vickers in The Big Sleep, bination of vagueness and Howard Hawks’ 1946 film also starring Lauren Bacall, which plays at specificity more accurately— Ciné next Wednesday, Jan. 18 as part of the Film Noir Festival. and beautifully—than any other film I’ve seen. have to: it’s not an exaggeration to call it 3. Meek’s Cutoff A feminist revisionist one of the most entertaining films of all time. western that interrogates America’s Manifest And chances are, few of you have ever seen Destiny with director Kelly Reichardt’s characit screened in 35mm, as all the films in this teristic penetrating intelligence and sublime series are being presented. It’s only showunderstatement. ing one night: Wednesday, Jan. 18. Do not 4. Another Year This is sort of cheating: miss it… Athenians Kathy Prescott and Grady Mike Leigh’s warm and funny drama about Thrasher have produced a documentary about difficult friends and family was released the the daring aeronautical exploits of Thrasher’s last week of 2010, but didn’t play here until a forbears (which were recounted in his story month or two later. Whatever—it was one of in last year’s Slackpole). The film is called my favorite films of the year. World’s Smallest Airport: The True Story of 5. Of Gods and Men Xavier Beauvois The Thrasher Brothers’ Aerial Circus, and it’ll directed this beautifully observed story of a be playing at Ciné Jan. 15–19, with a special group of monks examining their motives and Q&A with the filmmakers on the 16th. Get their faith as they approach their martyrdom more details at www.athenscine.com, and in an Islamist uprising. check out the trailer at www.worldssmall6. The Myth of the American Sleepover estairport.com… Finally, Beechwood Cinemas The debut feature from David Robert Mitchell is pursuing a license to serve beer and is a wonderfully evocative and charmingly wine. More on that as it develops… modest chronicle of teenage rites of passage, with real teenagers who act like kids instead Dave Marr film@flagpole.com of small adults.
JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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Digital scan courtesy www.doctormacro.com
In 2010’s year-end round-up, I wished for a French restaurant, better street food and Greek cuisine. Two out of three’s not so bad. The year 2011 brought us some lovely additions to the local scene, more franchises and a ridiculous amount of yogurt...
movie dope Some releases may not be showing locally this week. • indicates new review THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN (PG) The first of Steven Spielberg’s two holiday 2011 entries is already a hit in Europe. Herge’s Belgian globetrotter, Tintin, and Captain Haddock are in search of sunken ship in this MoCap’d CGI adventure. The teaming of Spielberg and Peter Jackson, who is producing (and has signed on to direct a sequel), is nearly as exciting as a script by Stephen Moffat (“Doctor Who”), Edgar Wright and hot newcomer Joe Cornish, whose Attack the Block was one of my favorite surprises of 2011. ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED (G) Come on, Fox! If you’re going to keep releasing new Chipmunks entries each holiday season, the least you can do is make a Christmas-themed movie featuring the furry trio’s classic holiday tunes. Instead, Alvin, Simon, Theodore, the Chipettes and Dave (poor, paycheckcashing Jason Lee) start out on a cruise ship and wind up on a deserted island. Judging by the boffo box office of the previous two features plus the young audience’s reaction to the new pic’s trailer, Chipwrecked should provide its studio with some holiday cheer. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (G) 1991. Disney rereleases the first animated feature to be nominated for a Best Picture Oscar using the fancy new 3D technology that is all the rage right now. Based on the classic fairy tale, Belle falls in love with Beast (voiced by Ice Castles’ heartthrob Robby Benson), who just so happens to be a cursed prince. The terrific voice cast includes Jerry Orbach, David Ogden Stiers and Angela Lansbury. Winner of two Academy Awards (Best Score and Best Original Song). THE BIG SLEEP (NR) 1946. Ciné is heating up the cold winter nights with a Classic Film Noir Series featuring Hollywood classics screened from increasingly precious 35mm prints. First up is Howard Hawks’ The Big Sleep, starring Humphrey Bogart as Raymond Chandler’s Philip Marlowe. With Lauren Bacall opposite Bogie and a script by William Faulkner, Leigh Brackett (the future scripter of The Empire Strikes Back) and Jules Furthmann, The Big Sleep on the big screen is not to be missed. CARNAGE (R) After a playground scuffle involving their son, writer Penelope (Jodie Foster) and hardware salesman Michael (John C. Reilly), invite the bully’s parents, broker Nancy (Kate Winslet) and amoral lawyer Alan (Christoph Waltz), over to work out their issues. Despite their best efforts at reconciliation, discussion soon escalates into warfare between both couples. CONTRABAND (R) A former smuggler, Chris Faraday (Mark Wahlberg), gets back in the game, trafficking millions of dollars in counterfeit bills to protect his family, including a pretty wife (played by Kate Beckinsale) and her brother (Caleb Landry Jones, Banshee from X-Men: First Class), from his brother-in-law’s nasty drugdealing boss (Giovanni Ribisi). Luckily, he has friends like go-to crazy Ben Foster. Director Baltasar Kormakur starred in and produced the Icelandic original, Reykjavik-Rotterdam. With
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Lukas Haas, J.K. Simmons and Diego Luna. COURAGEOUS (PG-13) First, the nice things. The technical skills of director Alex Kendrick and the folks (they are from Albany) behind Sherwood Baptist’s latest evangelical epic have vastly improved since their breakthrough hit, Facing the Giants. On a completely technical level, you’d never know you were not watching a Hollywood production about four law enforcement officers forced to face themselves as men and fathers after a tragedy. THE DARKEST HOUR (PG-13) Aliens invade Moscow, and five Americans (including Rachael Taylor, the ever-inventive Emile Hirsch, Juno’s Olivia Thirlby and Max Minghella) must fight to survive. Wanted director Timur Bekmambetov is becoming Russia’s answer to that Gallic purveyor of international sci-fi action, Luc Besson. The flick is the sophomore effort from Tulane alum Chris Gorak, an art director who apprenticed under an impressive resume of directors (David Fincher, the Coen Brothers and Terry Gilliam). Moscow’s exotic environs strangely intrigue, despite the familiarity of the scenario. • THE DEVIL INSIDE (R) After a strong opening sequence depicting the police investigation of and fake local news stories about a 1989 triple murder, The Devil Inside becomes just another found footage horror flick, this one insinuating itself to be the documentation of a young woman, Isabella Rossi (Fernanda Andrade), seeking the truth about her mother’s tragic exorcism. Two priests, Ben and David (Simon Quarterman and Evan Helmuth), assist Isabella in freeing her mother, but again, the results lead to a tragedy, all captured on film by documentarian/cameraman, Michael (Ionut Grama). This popular, easy-tofake horror subgenre has seen worse entries (last year’s snooze-fest Apollo 18), but The Last Exorcism was a more successful faux-mentary Exorcist. The film generates a few scares, and the fake people are more likable than most found footage protags. Still, The Devil Inside has absolutely nothing new to add to the horror conversation and should be quickly exorcised from memory. THE DIVIDE (NR) With Frontier(s), Xavier Gens proved to be a skilled purveyor of New French Extremity. With Hitman, I’m not sure the French filmmaker proved much of anything. His latest sci-fi/horror hybrid, The Divide, is a post-apocalyptic flick about nuclear holocaust survivors attempting to survive on dwindling supplies and ever-increasing fear. The presence of Michael Biehn always entices. With Lauren German (Hostel: Part II), Milo Ventimiglia (“Heroes”), Ashton Holmes (A History of Violence), Rosanna Arquette and Courtney B. Vance. DOLPHIN TALE (PG) I am not a sucker for sentimental animal movies. Were I, then I am sure Dolphin Tale would have fit the bill. A lonely 12-year-old, Sawyer (Nathan Gamble), rescues a dolphin (real tail-less dolphin, Winter, as herself) caught in a crab trap. With the help of a marine vet (Harry Connick Jr.), his daughter (Cozi
FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
Zuehlsdorff) and a doctor who specializes in prosthetics (Morgan Freeman), Sawyer helps save the dolphin by fashioning a fake appendage. FOOTLOOSE (PG-13) What Hustle & Flow filmmaker Craig Brewer has done in remaking the seminal ‘80s flick is impressive. Brewer relocates the dance banning town of Bomont from Oklahoma to Georgia, adding another film to Brewer’s resume of intriguing cinematic stories about the New South. Ren MacCormack (Kenny Wormald, looking like he transferred from Rydell High) migrates south to live with his aunt and uncle (Kim Dickens and scene-stealing Ray McKinnon, an Adel native and Oscar winner). There he runs afoul of Rev. Shaw Moore (Dennis Quaid), who instituted the dancing ban after his son died in a car accident, and woos Moore’s beautiful, troubled daughter, Ariel (Julianne Hough, “Dancing with the Stars”). Brewer’s movie has a nice rhythm and does the South more justice than any other major Hollywood release. THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO (R) Stieg Larsson may have created Lisbeth Salander, but David Fincher and the bold Rooney Mara have made her a big-screen icon. (No offense to Noomi Rapace’s Lisbeth, but Mara’s movie is loads better.) Fincher dangerously retains Larsson’s
fly between G.G.’s misunderstood grandson (Jeremy Jordan) and Vi’s goody-goody daughter (Keke Palmer). With Kris Kristofferson, Courtney B. Vance and Jesse L. Martin. Written and directed by Todd Graff (Camp and Bandslam). LIKE CRAZY (PG-13) The Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize winner stars Felicity Jones (winner of multiple Best Actress and Breakthrough Performance prizes) and the impressive Anton Yelchin (last seen in Fright Night) as two young lovers separated by government regulations. She’s a British college student; he’s an American student. Their love is deported after she overstays her visa and is kicked out of the country. Writerdirector Drake Doremus may finally have a minor hit with his fourth feature. LOOSIES (PG-13) The thought of Peter Facinelli as star, writer (yikes!) and producer is much less frightening when you think of his funny, sad, manchild doctor on Showtime’s “Nurse Jackie” rather than his awful, peroxided Carlisle Cullen. Then you read the logline: a New York pickpocket is confronted by a one-night stand. With Outside Providence director Michael Corrente, nothing good could come from this. With Michael Madsen, Joe Pantoliano, Christy Carlson Romano, William Forsythe and Vincent Gallo.
Perhaps you will consider pulling my finger? wicked, violent, European sexuality for Hollywood’s adaptation of the first book in the Millennium Trilogy. Journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) enlists the help of the titular tattooed (and multiply pierced) girl, a ward of the state who might be a psychopath but is certainly a genius, to solve a decades old murder. m THE IRON LADY (PG-13) Meryl Streep already has her Golden Globe nomination and is virtually guaranteed a spot on the Academy’s Best Actress shortlist with her turn as former U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Director Phyllida Lloyd last helmed Streep’s crowd-pleasing Mamma Mia! As good as Streep is, most reviewers have been down on the film as a whole, one would assume because Lloyd as scripter Abi Morgan also cowrote critical fave Shame. With Jim Broadbent as Denis Thatcher. JOYFUL NOISE (PG-13) Lawdy, Dolly Parton’s back on the big screen for her first starring role since 1992’s Straight Talk. As choral member G.G. Sparrow, Parton duels with Queen Latifah, fellow choir singer Vi Rose Hill, as their church choir competes in a national choral competition. Think “Glee” with more G-O-D. Naturally, sparks
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE—GHOST PROTOCOL (PG-13) Mission: Impossible is that rare franchise that has actually gotten better with each new installment and in inverse proportion to its megastar’s popularity. Tom Cruise had few peers in 1996 when the weak, original M:I opened; now he’s more often a punchline, albeit a badass punchline who does many of his own death-defying stunts, like climbing the outside of the world’s tallest building. What sets the Mission: Impossible franchise apart from any other existing action series is its star-producer’s knack for finding the best, new behind the camera talent. MONEYBALL (PG-13) Based on Michael Lewis’ bestseller, director Bennet Miller’s follow-up to the Oscar winning Capote actually makes baseball statistics interesting. Oakland A’s General Manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) attempts to build a championship ballclub through On Base and Slugging Percentage rather than traditional scouting. Does it work? Anyone familiar with Major League Baseball already knows the answer. THE MUPPETS (PG) You can tell cowriter-star Jason Segel loves the Muppets. His reboot of Jim Henson’s
lovable puppets is built with obvious love and understanding of what made their 1979 film debut so special. MY WEEK WITH MARILYN (R) Michelle Williams stars as the legendary blonde bombshell in this dramatization of Marilyn and Sir Laurence Olivier’s tense relationship while filming The Prince and the Showgirl. The film is based on the accounts of Colin Clark (Eddie Redmayne), who was employed by Olivier at the time. The rest of the cast sounds fun; Julia Ormond plays Vivien Leigh and Kenneth Branagh is Olivier. However, director Simon Curtis has done most of his work on the small screen. NEW YEAR’S EVE (PG-13) Almost every actor you could possibly recognize appears in the second, two-hour holiday party thrown by director Garry Marshall. (Scratch that. No Julia.) At least Valentine’s Day had a semblance to what normal people might expect on Feb. 14. The folks preparing to ring in 2012 (dating it could sorely limit this flick’s already weak repeat watchability) aren’t doing a single thing you or I do, unless you cater swank New York parties while arguing with your music superstar boyfriend (naturally played by Jon Bon Jovi). PUSS IN BOOTS (PG) Shrek’s fairy tale may have moved on to happily ever after, but Puss in Boots (v. Antonio Banderas) is still itching for a fight. His spinoff reveals the swordfighting antics that led up to Puss meeting up with Shrek and company. Naturally, this flick was once slated for a direct-to-DVD release; will the cat be able to match the ogre’s blockbuster results? Director Chris Miller previously helmed Shrek the Third. Featuring the voices of Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis and more. REAL STEEL (PG-13) The trailer for this Hugh Jackman action movie just screams Rock ‘Em, Sock ‘Em Robots: The Movie (which apparently was in development at one point). Jackman is a struggling promoter of robot boxing, who thinks he has a contender in a discarded bot. He also discovers he has an 11-year-old son. Director Shawn Levy has been on a roll; his last three movies were the high-profile hits, Night at the Museum, its Smithsonianset sequel and Date Night. SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS (PG-13) Much like its 2009 predecessor, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows is a perfectly forgettable crowdpleaser. Robert Downey, Jr. revisits his hyper-bordering-on-manic, streetfighting master sleuth, this time tasked with defeating his literary archnemesis, Professor James Moriarty (the appropriate Jared Harris of AMC’s “Mad Men”). Assisted as always by Dr. John Watson (Jude Law, again a game companion to Downey), Holmes is also joined by his brother, Mycroft (Stephen Fry), Watson’s new wife (Kelly Reilly) and a gypsy fortune teller (Noomi Rapace, best known as the original Lisbeth Salander). Director Guy Ritchie coats everything in his usual superstylish action sheen. • TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (R) The machinations Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, the new film from Let the Right One In’s Tomas Alfredson, may be a little too (you say dense, I say) murky for its own good. Despite the climactic presence of all the proper puzzle pieces, the filmmakers leave the viewer
to believe there’s more to be worked out as a result of retired British spy George Smiley’s (an excellently restrained Gary Oldman) return to semi-active duty to uncover the identity of a mole amongst the highest echelons of MI6. The performances from an absolutely dynamite cast of Britons (Oldman, reigning Best Actor Colin Firth, John Hurt, Toby Jones, Ciaran Hinds, “Sherlock”’s Benedict Cumberbatch, Mark Strong, Stephen Graham and upcoming Batman villain Tom Hardy) keep one engaged even as the pregnant pauses and furtive glances overly cloud the already opaque espionage waters of literary spymaster John Le Carré. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy may be too smart, tasking its audience to puzzle out a hundred piece central mystery like it were split into a thousand. The work’s rarely boring though. THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN–PART 1 (PG-13) Stephenie Meyer’s extremely popular teen-vampromance took a surreal turn in the fourth book. Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Edward (Robert Pattinson) finally marry. On the honeymoon, Bella becomes pregnant with a thing that should not be. Now the Cullens are caught between the Quileute wolves and the ancient Volturi, both of whom are threatened by this unknown new adversary. I’ll be interested to see how director Bill Condon (Gods and Monsters, Dreamgirls) handles the book’s R-rated events (specifically, the baby’s bloody birth) in a PG-13 manner. • WAR HORSE (PG-13) After a brief trip to the sentimental silliness throughout a first act of boy meets horse, boy falls in love with horse, boy loses horse, Steven Spielberg’s latest drama catches fire in the war-torn countryside and trenches of World War I Europe. When his father comes home with a thoroughbred rather than a workhorse, Albert Narracott (Jeremy Irvine) forges a lifelong bond with the beautiful beast he names Joey. Alas, war comes and debts must be paid; the Narracott patriarch (Peter Mullan) sells Joey to a war-bound cavalryman (Thor’s Tom Hiddleston). Thus begins Joey’s journey from the English countryside to the bomb-ravaged wilds of Belgium and France. Negatively criticizing Spielberg’s wonderfully warm, overly genuine drama just feels wrong and would be. The six-time Golden Globe nominee lacks many (if any) visible flaws, yet it fails to do anything unanticipated or elicit any emotion unexpected. WE BOUGHT A ZOO (PG) This movie just generates some odd feelings. A movie directed by Cameron Crowe and starring Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and Thomas Haden Church sounds like a serious winner, but then there’s the title. A dad (Damon) moves his family to Southern California to renovate a struggling zoo. The Devil Wears Prada scripter Aline Brosh McKenna and Crowe relocate Benjamin Mee’s memoir from England to SoCal. Some say a similar move didn’t affect High Fidelity; I’m not one of those folks. WORLD’S SMALLEST AIRPORT (NR) From Watkinsville’s own Surprisingly Professional Productions comes this documentary of the Thrasher Brothers Aerial Circus. From the end of World War II in 1945 to 1950, three Georgia brothers performed astonishing feats via aircraft that have yet to be exceeded. The Jan. 15–19 screenings at Ciné will be the film’s Athens premiere. To better prepare oneself for the Thrasher Brothers film debut, check out Grady Thrasher’s Dec. 29, 2010 article “A Remembrance: The World’s Smallest Airport” in our very own Flagpole magazine. Drew Wheeler
movie pick Morality as Method TINKER, TAILOR, SOLIDER, SPY (R) The Cold War tends to be written about in easily quantifiable narrative terms, with East and West pitched in an overheated battle between Good and Evil, culminating in President Reagan demanding that Soviet leader Gorbachev tear down the Berlin Wall, and, within a few years, Communism’s capitulation, stamped out once and for all. It’s history simplified and packaged as a dumb war movie. The novels of John le Carré—his most famous ones written in the thick of the Cold War—examine how history was really forged in the fog of it, by agents of bureaucracy, information and stealth. James Bond made espionage sexy, but the truth was that the real spies more-so-than-not looked like dweeby middleaged men. Gary Oldman Set in the early 1970s, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy deals with the intricate inner workings of Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service (AKA the Circus) and the hunt for a possible Soviet mole within its highest rank. The head of the organization, known only as Control (John Hurt), and his Deputy Head of Service, George Smiley (Gary Oldman), are both fired in the aftermath of a disastrous operation in Hungary involving agent Jim Prideaux (Mark Strong). Smiley is hired back, however, to ferret out the traitor, focusing on the new head of the agency, Percy
Alleline (Toby Jones), and his closest aides, Roy Bland (Ciaran Hinds), Toby Esterhase (David Dencik) and Bill Haydon (Colin Firth). Fans of new-breed espionage movies like the Mission: Impossible and Bourne series may feel bored by the lack of hyperkinetic action here and bewildered by Tinker, Tailor’s convoluted plot. The Sphinx-like visage of Smiley—a brilliant slow-burn of a performance by Oldman, an actor who made his name playing manic sleazeballs— won’t break into a toothy Hollywood-ready gleam as he rockets down London’s M25 in his Aston Martin, nor will you catch him pummeling bad guys before somersaulting out of an exploding building. Director Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In) has nevertheless crafted a meticulously paced thriller that generates a wealth of tension through the slow accretion of significant dramatic details, plunging us into a maze of cryptic information curated by offices of silently suffering agents of moral relativism. It’s a haunting piece of work, subtly stylish with its washed-out color palette, and peopled with stellar performances, particularly Tom Hardy and Benedict Cumberbatch as young blood within the Great Game of old, jaundiced men. Derek Hill
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JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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threats & promises Music News And Gossip Welcome to the first edition of Threats & Promises for 2012. Without getting too sappy about it, here’s to a great year full of new records, new bands and exciting, worthwhile events in the Athens music scene. Now let’s jump in… Help Him Row the Boat Ashore: The award for the first Athens music Kickstarter campaign of the year goes to Patrick Morales and his The Viking Progress project. Named thus after the two separate commercial fishing boats he worked on during 2008—The Viking and The Progress—Morales has an album in the can that explores the concept of the end of the world from various points of view. Recorded with Suny Lyons at Pop Heart Studios, the only thing it lacks is mixing and mastering. It’s even got a title already: Whistling While the End Is Near. Morales has a conservative goal of $2,500, and, of course, the graduated tiers of support each bring their own particular set of rewards. There are about three weeks left in this campaign, so head over to www. facebook.com/thevikingprogress and see what you think. Gotta Hear It: After months of waiting to hear Zack Hembree’s new band, Tarnation, Patrick Morales it seems we’re getting close. Although initially taking shape while Hembree was still in Stone Mountain Freeway, the project became fully loaded last summer. Composed of Hembree (vocals/guitar) Taylor Norland (banjo/washboard) and Jack Reinhart (guitar/vocals) at the core, the band has been augmented by others during live shows and recording. Notable contributors include AntiSeen’s Jeff Clayton (!) as well as Noah Ray and Erin Stagg from Music Hates You. The band’s debut record, There’s a Fine Line Between Neck and Break, was recorded by Mark and Vaughn Moody (both of In the Lurch) and should be done by March. Hembree is splitting his time evenly these days between Athens and Sarasota, FL. For lack of a better descriptor, this all seems to add up to outlaw country in the truest sense. Hembree agrees and adds, “[There’s] also a very healthy dose of “fuck you”-style punk rock in there, à la Music Hates You-style with acoustics and banjos. There is a major dark element to what we do as well… not really any happy-go-lucky undertones… songs about suicide, homicide, heartbreak, alcoholism, anxiety attacks… the basics. Ha!” Although no Athens shows are planned so far, Tarnation hopes for a record release show here sometime this spring. Keep up to date over at www.facebook.com/TARNATIONnation. Stand Up and Shout: Tandi Murphy-Hall (Triangle Fire) has organized the “Up Your Athens Punk Fest”—proving that some folks still get a giggle out of punning “Athens” with “ass”—and it’s gonna happen at Little Kings Shuffle Club on Saturday, Jan. 21. Doors open at 4 p.m., and the music starts at 5 p.m. The entirely local event will host performances
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from Triangle Fire, Gnarx, The Fact, Cloak & Dagger Dating Service, The Fuzzlers, Gripe, Crun Pun, Rottgut, Wrist Bandits, Shehehe, Kater Mass, Ethan Ogletree and You’re Mean, I’m You. It’s all free, too. Breathe In, Breathe Out: Indigo Girl Amy Ray will play the Melting Point on Wednesday, Jan. 18. Her latest solo album, and sixth overall, will be released in February on her own Daemon Records imprint. If you can get past the clumsy tongue-twister of a title— Lung of Love—you can then be thankful that it presumably beat out other potential titles like, perhaps, Thyroid of Hate or Rib of Indifference. Seattle’s Lindsay Fuller also performs this night. Please see www.meltingpointathens.com for more information. A Moveable Fest: The folks behind the rock and roll Gypsy Farm record label and collective will run a three-day house show Jan. 13–15. Appropriately billed as “3 Day House Show,” the event will present 26 bands at three decently well known house venues in town. Find out exact locations over at www.gypsyfarm.net. Featured bands include Ol’ Smokey, Figboots, Glupist, The Fuzzlers, Bubbly Mommy Gun, Timmy Tumble & the Tumblers, Pretty Bird, TaterZandra, The Humms, Sleeping Friends and more. Cross your fingers that someone remembered to keep the heat turned on, and go have a ball. Steal of a Deal: David Barbe’s music production class, a course in the UGA Music Business Program, is seeking a band or artist who would allow the class to produce a song for them. This project was done last year, too, and looks to be at least a yearly occurrence. The deal is this: submit one (1) MP3 of an original song to the program, and, if yours is chosen, you’ll get to record that song at Chase Park Transduction on Jan. 31. So, time really is of the essence. The track will be produced by the students under the supervision of David Barbe. By participating you will grant the students the right to use the song for projects (remixes, etc.), but you will own the track itself. Submit your one and only MP3 to dbarbe@gmail.com. Short Takes: Titans of Filth released a new EP last month, cleverly titled Serf City, featuring a relatively new lineup of stars from bands such as Gemini Cricket, El Hollin and Werewolves. Find it at www.titansoffilth.bandcamp.com… The Corduroy Road entered The Glow Studio to begin work on its second full-length. The group next plays locally Mar. 23 at the Georgia Theatre… Film Athens (the folks behind the Sprockets Music Video Competition) is seeking a lead graphic designer to handle the creation of all materials related to this year’s competition. More details available at www. filmathens.net. Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
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aving witnessed nearly 20 Republican debates so far, the American public is overwhelmed by the resultant renaissance of rich, enlightened discourse. Like students of Socrates, the 2012 presidential hopefuls pursue truth through extremely exhaustive debate. Of course, the layperson needs some guidance when confronted with such a high-minded forum, and during the 21st GOP primary debate of this campaign season, Athenians will witness an unprecedented meeting of the minds: #Occupythedebate. Local performers Ed Burmila, Jesse Rosoff, Nate Mitchell, Caleb Synan and Chris Patton will provide public commentary live at New Earth Music Hall as Fox News broadcasts its Jan. 16 GOP debate. “I figured we could get people to come out and pay a little bit of attention while having some fun in the process,” explains Patton. Burmila teaches political science at UGA, making him the most credentialed political commentator slated to occupy the debate. Patton assures us that “all of the performers are educated in a sense and know what they are talking about.” However, profundity is not necessarily everyone’s goal, as Synan explains. “I won’t be doing a lot of in-depth comedic examinations of their economic policies,” he says. “I’ll be saying things like, ‘Doesn’t Michelle Bachmann look like Bat Boy?’… Personally, I only care if it’s funny. If you go too high-brow with your satire you’ll end up losing everybody. There aren’t a whole lot of gut-busters in Animal Farm. That’s right. Now I’m dissing George Orwell.” According to Synan, the format will be somewhat like that of “Mystery Science Theatre 3000,” in that the commentators will be “making fun of an embarrassingly bad cast of undead characters who are already funny by themselves.” Synan seems slightly ambivalent about the current roster of Republican contenders, implying that there’s something tragically amusing about them. “Just Youtube Rick Perry and you’ve got a solid hour of laughs,” says Synan. “Part of me is embarrassed for the Republican voters that have to pick a candidate out of this bunch.” Patton claims that Perry produces the best inadvertent comedic fodder. However, what makes Patton laugh also stirs a bit of fear in him; he describes Perry as “just a character, like a dumber George Bush… and that’s scary.” Patton reluctantly chooses Ron Paul as his “favorite” GOP candidate, simply because Paul “stays really consistent in his views.”
However, Patton’s discovery that Paul “basically has his own version of Mein Kampf” illustrates how quickly one of these politicians can go from quirky to downright frightening. Synan is no fan of Paul either, calling him “the craziest one of them all.” “I took one of those bogus Internet surveys to see who I should vote for,” says Synan, “and the number-one guy was Ron Paul. I wanted to throw my computer down a flight of stairs.” All five comics are sure to lampoon everyone behind a lectern at #occupythedebate— Rick Santorum’s hyper-social conservatism, Newt Gingrich’s questionable past and general unpleasantness, Mitt Romney’s suspiciously synthetic appearance and John Hunstman’s… invisibility cloak are all fair game. “I think, really, the fact that any of these people are even considered is a testament to the fact that most people really don’t even do their research,” says Patton. “So, maybe some of these people will come out to this show and that will snowball into them paying attention to what they are actually voting for.” Patton and Synan plan to continue holding events in this format, mainly focusing on the upcoming 2012 debates and having “some really good talent come down and participate in future versions.” Synan has some other commentary-based comedy in mind. “I’d love to do a series of bad movies,” he says, “or maybe one of those terrible Tyler Perry shows on TBS. I’ve always found those offensively bad.” The commentators want to keep the comedy going during commercial breaks, so they’re asking for “any question about anything” to be sent to occupythedebate@gmail.com. As for the show’s heavily improvisational element, the comics feel safe “winging it” on this one. “That’s the most fun thing about comedy, is the unscripted moments,” says Patton, “for both the crowd and the performer.” “The Republicans have handed us the jokes on a silver platter,” adds Synan, “and we just have to improv a punch-line.” Kevin Craig
WHAT: #Occupythedebate WHERE: New Earth Music Hall WHEN: Monday, Jan. 16, 8 p.m. HOW MUCH: FREE!
Piano Across America 285 W. Washington St. Athens, GA • Call 706-549-7871 for Show Updates
CHEAP DRINK SPECIALS EVERY NIGHT BEFORE 11PM • 18 + UP
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Dotan Negrin Is the Wandering Pianist
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FUTUREBIRDS doors open at 8pm**
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id-afternoon on the corner of Broad Street and College Avenue, 25-year-old Dotan Negrin stands up from behind his well-traveled piano to ask if anyone in the small audience can play the keys. A shy, middle schoolaged girl raises her hand. “Want to come up here and play?” Negrin asks, but the girl vehemently shakes her head. “C’mon,” he says. “It’s OK. I make mistakes all of the time.” Finally the girl shrugs, takes a seat next to the cross-country traveling street musician and begins to play. To the crowd, this is an exciting Saturday afternoon spectacle, but for Negrin, this is just a normal day on the job. Negrin wasn’t born a wandering gypsy, as you might be inclined to assume. Three years ago he graduated from Philadelphia’s University of the Arts and returned home to Long Island, NY to find work as an actor. Between auditions and unpaid gigs, Negrin paid the bills doing everything from day trading and real estate to selling used items on eBay. However, like many 20-somethings, he wanted more. “I went to work for this real estate firm, and I was there for three weeks before I was like, ‘Fuck this; I’m not going to spend my life sitting in some office and running around like crazy.’” He formed his own local acting group and attempted playwriting and screenwriting, but says none of these efforts created the result he desired. “I met these other actors who were doing the same things at 40 that they were doing when they were 20, and it terrified me,” Negrin says. “So, I thought, ‘How can I take matters into my own hands? How can I create success for myself?’” He quickly got to work poring over marketing and business books in search of a strategy. “I wanted to learn how to maintain my artistic integrity, but still make a living off of it,” he says. In December of 2009 he took a delivery assignment for a local photographer that sent him on a road trip from his home state to Miami. It was during this trip that he came up with the idea for Piano Across America. Unlike many recession-era graduates, Negrin didn’t wallow in self pity or blame the economy when he didn’t land his dream job immediately. He didn’t settle for a 9-to-5 cubicle farm and fade away into the quiet, either. Instead, in April of 2011, he packed up his piano, his laptop, his Jack RussellChihuahua mix, Brando, and a few survival necessities into a banana-colored box truck and set out on a journey across the country. In the months that followed, Negrin says he grew more than he’s ever grown before. He survived solely from the donations of others, met over 500 people, encountered some of the most influential conversations of his life and came home with cash in his pocket. “I don’t want to come off too strong or impose my philosophy on anyone,” Negrin says. “But I want to extend a hand to people and say, ‘Look, I’ve taken some risks and broken myself out of this routine and, if you want, you can, too.’” To date, Negrin has played in the parks, street corners and beaches of over 30 cities across the U.S., and all the while he’s been keeping a log of his experiences on his site: Pianoacrossamerica.com. In the future, he says he wants to start a nonprofit, take his piano across the world and do something he’s always wanted but only recently found the courage for: play piano onstage. “I don’t question what I’m doing,” Negrin says. “I’m at the point where I’m so confident that I swear I can’t see myself doing anything else.” Carrie Dagenhard
FRIday, JaNUaRy 13 & SaTURday, JaNUaRy 14 SOLD O UT DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS doors open at 8pm**
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Saturday January 28 9am-5pm OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - ADMISSION IS FREE Exhibits, green shopping, educational seminars and recycling opportunities. Special kids’ activities, including story time and a puppet show. Plus, a performance by the UGA Ecotones! Visit www.GreenLifeAthens.com for more information The fourth annual Green Life Expo is made possible by the generous support of:
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Sarah Jarosz
ready to educate the masses
In
any classroom of Boston’s prestigious New England Conservatory of Music, you’ll likely find plenty of 20-year-old music students daydreaming about nationwide tours, major festival sets and critically acclaimed records. For many, that’s a dream that may never come to fruition. But for Sarah Jarosz, the rising Bostonby-way-of-Dallas folk/newgrass phenomenon, it’s a dream that she’s already living just seven months after the release of her sophomore effort, Follow Me Down. Not unlike a highly touted athlete, Jarosz faced a tough decision out of high school. Already signed to Sugar Hill Records by the time she got her diploma (the label would release her debut, Song Up in Her Head, in June 2009), Jarosz could have easily forgone her music education and hit the touring circuit full-time. “I went back and forth for a while [on going to school], but I’m really glad I chose the school route. I wanted to savor these great years of my life and let myself be a 20-year-old,” she says. “I’m definitely glad that I had more of a festival and music camp learning experience before I went to school. I feel fortunate to have grown up in that festival scene where music was such a fun thing I was able to fall in love with, and now because I grew up with that feeling, I’m able to think of it in more of a somewhat serious way and get deeper into it.” It’s from that deeper study, and undoubtedly from the effects of a cross-country college move, that Follow Me Down has a decidedly darker and more mature sound compared to Jarosz’s debut. “Musically and personally, I’ve been placed out of my comfort zone, and all the influences I’ve gained have really affected my music and my songwriting,” she says. “[Follow Me Down] definitely has a little bit of a darker feel to it than the first one did. It’s sort of an invitation for people to see what I’m doing musically.” Despite these darker undertones, the record remains a respectful homage to Jarosz’s folk/ bluegrass heroes. The “old school” vibes of Tim O’Brien and Darrell Scott’s songwriting and instrumental prowess mix well with the more contemporary feel of influences like Gillian Welch and Chris Thile/ The Punch Brothers.
“I am really lucky to have really supportive parents who love music; so growing up I was always surrounded by lots of styles,” says Jarosz, before naming some of those artists who have served as lifelong influences. “I’ve always had a lot of respect for people who are amazing singers, great musicians and composers, as well.” Following in the footsteps of these idols, Jarosz has molded her own songwriting style into one that’s seemingly well beyond her years. “The thing that keeps drawing me back to [songwriting] is that there isn’t a formula,” she says. “I get inspired when I’m being the best listener. Sometimes we can all be closed off to things, and when I’m able to allow myself to open up a bit more is when I’m able to be inspired by a lot of things—whether that’s by other musicians or if I’m reading a great book or something like that. It all makes its way into the songs.” Follow Me Down also includes two covers that have helped Jarosz catch even more attention: a minimalist take on Radiohead’s “The Tourist” and an achingly gorgeous spin through Bob Dylan’s “Ring Them Bells.” “I’m a huge Radiohead fan, and I love [“Ring Them Bells”], and never get tired of singing that song. It was through learning other people’s songs that I was able to really start working on my own and forming my own stuff,” she says. “And when it comes to choosing them for a record, I have to see what the bulk of my original material is like before I can really see what mood is lacking and might need to be created by another song that I love.” In the classroom or on the road, the setting for Jarosz’s education seems inconsequential. Her eyes and ears are wide open, and everywhere she goes, it seems fans are left feeling much the same.
RENT NOW
SAVE NOW
Alec Wooden
WHO: Sarah Jarosz, Homesick Elephant WHERE: The Melting Point WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 11, 8 p.m. HOW MUCH: $10 (adv.), $12 (door)
/ugabookstore
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*Savings based on total North American textbook rental savings vs new book price. Individual store savings vary by location. See store for details. 0095BBS122211A
JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEK
Deadline for getting listed in the Calendar is every FRIDAY at 5 p.m. for the issue that comes out the following Wednesday. Email calendar@flagpole.com.
Tuesday 10 EVENTS: Drafts & Laughs (The Pub at Gameday) Local stand-up comedy. 9:30 p.m. 706-353-2831 PERFORMANCE: The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (UGA Hodgson Hall) Principal Guest Conductor Pinchas Zukerman will take the podium to lead the orchestra in Mozart’s “Overture to the Magic Flute” and Brahms’s “Symphony No. 4.” A virtuoso violinist, Maestro Zukerman will also perform as a soloist with the orchestra in Max Bruch’s “Violin Concerto No. 1.” 8 p.m. $35–$90. pac.uga.edu OUTDOORS: Street Hockey (No Location Specified) Pick-up games. All levels welcome. No equipment necessary. 6:30 p.m. athensfloorhockey@gmail.com KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a morning of stories, songs and crafts. For kids ages 2–5 and their caregivers. Every Tuesday and Wednesday. 10 & 11 a.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Teen Painting Club (Lyndon House Arts Center) An informal gathering of teens meets twice a month to paint. No instruction provided. Bring your own project and materials. Ages 14-19. 5:30–7 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3623 KIDSTUFF: Toddler Storytime (ACC Library) For children ages 18 months to 5 years. Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 LECTURES & LIT.: AfricanAmerican Authors Book Club (ACC Library) This month’s title is Seen It All and Done the Rest by Pearl Cleage. Newcomers welcome. 5 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 LECTURES & LIT.: Design Basics for Edible Landscaping Series (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Three-part series instruction on how to make the most of your edible garden. 5–7 p.m. $50. www.uga. edu/botgarden MEETINGS: ADDA Board Meeting (Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, 246 W. Hancock Ave.) Meeting of the Athens Downtown Development Authority. 3 p.m. FREE! 706-353-1421 MEETINGS: Athens Fibercraft Guild (Lyndon House Arts Center) The Guild welcomes all amateur and professional fiber artists. Margaret Agner will hold a mini-workshop on creating polymer buttons. Every second Tuesday. 12:30 p.m. FREE! 706-543-4319 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 p.m. FREE! www.locosgrill.com GAMES: Trivia (Shane’s Rib Shack, College Station) Every Tuesday! 7 p.m. 706-543-0050
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GAMES: Trivia (Chango’s Asian Kitchen) Learn facts, eat noodles. Every Tuesday. 7:30 p.m. FREE! 706546-0015 GAMES: Trivia with a Twist (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Throw a lime in your Coors Light and compete! Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. 706354-1515
Wednesday 11 EVENTS: Community HU Song (Lay Park) People of all faiths are invited to sing together with the Eckankar community. 7 p.m. FREE! 706-310-9499, www/eckankar-ga. org ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) Meet docents in the lobby for a tour of highlights from the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org PERFORMANCE: Yo-Yo Ma (UGA Hodgson Hall) The world’s bestknown classical musician, renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform a solo set featuring Bach’s “Suites for Unaccompanied Cello.” 8 p.m. SOLD OUT! www.uga.edu/pac KIDSTUFF: Anime Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss anime and eat ramen noodles. Includes previews of anime, manga, J-Pop music, fan art and fan fiction. Ages 13–18. 6–8 p.m. FREE! 706-7693950 KIDSTUFF: Preschool & Toddler Storytime (Madison County Library) Includes stories, fingerpuppet plays, songs and crafts for literacy-based fun. For ages 2–5. 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a morning of stories, songs and crafts. For kids ages 2–5 and their caregivers. 10 & 11 a.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Toddler Storytime (ACC Library) For children ages 18 months to 5 years. Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 KIDSTUFF: Wildcard Wednesday for Teens (ACC Library) Up next: Athens Library Lego Club! Bring your own legos or play with the library’s collection. Ages 11–18. 4 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 GAMES: Sports Trivia (Beef ‘O’ Brady’s) Test your sports knowledge every Wednesday night. 8:30 p.m. FREE! 706-850-1916 GAMES: Trivia (Blind Pig Tavern) Think you know it all? Wednesdays, 8 p.m. (Baldwin St. location), 8:30 p.m. (Broad St. location). 706-5483442 GAMES: Trivia (Copper Creek Brewing Company) Test your trivia chops for prizes! Every Wednesday. 9 p.m. FREE! 706-546-1102 GAMES: Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Every Wednesday. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-613-0892
FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
GAMES: Trivia (Willy’s Mexicana Grill) Trivia with a DJ! Every Wednesday. 8–10 p.m. FREE! 706548-1920 GAMES: Trivia (Your Pie, 5 Points) Open your pie-hole for a chance to win! Every Wednesday. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.yourpie.com
Thursday 12 EVENTS: Kress Project Film Series: Caravaggio (Georgia Museum of Art) A fictionalized look at the artist’s life. Rated R. 7 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.com PERFORMANCE: Second Thursday Scholarship Concert: Evgeny Rivkin (UGA Hodgson Hall) Evgeny Rivkin, Distinguished Professor of Piano in the Hodgson School of Music, returns to the Hodgson Hall stage with a program that includes selections from the 18th and 19th centuries. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-542-3331, aflurry@ uga.edu OUTDOORS: Street Hockey (No Location Specified) Pick-up games. All levels welcome. No equipment necessary. 6:30 p.m. athensfloorhockey@gmail.com KIDSTUFF: Big Kids Only! Storytime (ACC Library) Children in 1st-4th grades are invited for stories. 4:30 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 KIDSTUFF: Homeschoolers Chapter Book Review (Madison County Library) Elementary schoolage homeschoolers gather at the library to read and discuss a book together. Every Thursday. 2 p.m. FREE! 706-795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Library Crew (Oconee County Library) The library is seeking volunteers ages 9-12 to assist with craft projects, help take care of the library and have a good time! First Thursday of the month. 4–5 p.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Read to Rover (Oconee County Library) Beginning readers in grades 1–4 read aloud to an aid dog to improve reading confidence. Trainer always present. 3–4 p.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Teen Cartoon Illustrators Club (Lyndon House Arts Center) Work on your favorite style of cartoon with other young artists and discuss recent drawings and characters. Pizza and soda included! Every other Thursday. Call for more information. Ages 12 and older. 5:30–7:30 p.m. $5. 706-613-3623 MEETINGS: AARP Monthly Meeting (Athens First Bank and Trust) This month: Speaker Evelyn Reece, director of the Athens Area Welcome Center. 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-340-9418 MEETINGS: Active Adult Health Chat (Lay Park) Learn about a variety of health-related topics including diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, heart health and more. Ages
World renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma plays UGA’s sold-out Hodgson Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 11. 55 and older. 11:30 a.m. FREE! 706613-3596 MEETINGS: MHDDAD Meeting (Central Presbyterian Church) The Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, Addictive Disease Planning Board holds a public forum. 7–9 p.m. FREE! 706-208-9375 GAMES: Trivia (Dos Palmas Restaurant & Cantina) Trivia and drink specials. Every Thursday. 8 p.m. FREE! 705-353-7771 GAMES: Trivia (The Volstead) Every Thursday! 7:30 p.m. FREE! 706354-5300 GAMES: Trivia with a Twist (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Throw a lime in your Coors Light and compete! Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. 706354-1515
Friday 13 ART: Great Depression Panel Discussion (GMOA) Jonathan Stuhlman and Amanda Mobley Guenther lead a discussion on current exhibits in relation to the Great Depression. 6 p.m. www.georgiamuseum.org ART: Opening Reception (OCAF) For paintings by June F. Johnston. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.ocaf.com THEATRE: Legally Blonde: The Musical (Oconee County Civic Center) The popular comedic film is brought to life onstage. Jan. 13–14, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15, 2 p.m. $12–16. 706-769-2677, www.oypoysp.com/ playhouse KIDSTUFF: Dr. King Essay Contest (Rocksprings Community Center & Park) Children ages 6–12 are invited to watch excerpts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s speeches
and write an essay about a person in his/her life who exemplifies Dr. King’s message of kindness and love. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www.athensclarkecounty.com/ rocksprings
Saturday 14 EVENTS: 100th Anniversary of the Historic Apalachee Schoolhouse (Historic Apalachee Schoolhouse, Madison) Enjoy light fare provided by Classic City Chef, live music from Johnny Few and original artwork while celebrating 100 years of education and community events. 2:30–5 p.m. FREE! 706-542-1238 EVENTS: Pre-Show Party & DBT Memorabilia Auction (Nuçi’s Space) Before the last of the threenight run for the Truckers, stop by for refreshments, live music by Mark Cunningham & The Nationals and an auction featuring exclusive Drive-By Truckers artwork, photographs and more. 4:30 p.m. www.nuci.org PERFORMANCE: Amy Schumer (The Bad Manor) Comedienne who has worked on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” “30 Rock” and Bonnaroo. 7:30 p.m. $15 (adv.), $20. 706-850-8500 THEATRE: Legally Blonde: The Musical (Oconee County Civic Center) The popular comedic film is brought to life onstage. Jan. 13–14, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15, 2 p.m. $12–16. 706-769-2677, www.oypoysp.com/ playhouse KIDSTUFF: Second Saturday Storytime (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Join the SCNC staff for sto-
ries about the woods and its resident creatures. 2:30–3 p.m. FREE! 706613-3615, www.athensclarkecounty. com/sandycreeknaturecenter KIDSTUFF: Up, Up and Away (Memorial Park) Learn how birds fly, meet some of Bear Hollow’s resident birds and make paper airplanes. 4 p.m. $3. 706-613-3580, www.athensclarkecounty.com/bearhollow LECTURES & LIT.: Intro to Mac (PeachMac) Work your way around the desktop and learn all about preferences and settings. 10–11 a.m. FREE! www.peachmac.com
Sunday 15 EVENTS: The Unchained Bluebird School Bus (Avid Bookshop) Meet George Dawes Green, the founder of storytelling group The Moth and the idea-guy behind the Unchained Tour. 7 p.m. FREE! avid.athens@ gmail.com ART: Art Lecture (Georgia Museum of Art) Ashley Callahan speaks on the exhibition “Georgia Bellflowers: The Furniture of Henry Eugene Thomas.” Followed by a gallery tour and reception. Call to RSVP. 2:30 p.m. FREE! 706-542-4662 ART: Opening Reception (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) “Nature-Inspired Quilts” features quilts from the Mountain Laurel Quilters Guild of Clarkesville, GA. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.uga.edu/ botgarden GAMES: Trivia (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) “Brewer’s Inquisition,” trivia hosted by Chris Brewer every Sunday. 7 p.m. FREE! 706-3546655, www.buffaloscafe.com/athens GAMES: Trivia (The Capital Room) Every Sunday! Hosted by Evan
Michael O’Neill
the calendar!
Delany (former Wild Wing trivia host). First place wins $50 and second place wins $25. 8 p.m. FREE! www.thecapitalroom.com
Monday 16 EVENTS: #Occupythedebate (New Earth Music Hall) Local comedians Ed Burmila, Jesse Rosoff, Nate Mitchell, Caleb Synan and Chris Patton provide public commentary on the 21st GOP primary debate. See feature story on p. 12. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.newearthmusichall.com EVENTS: Filmmaker Q&A (Ciné Bar Cafe) After the premiere screening of Watkinsville-based Surprisingly Professional Production’s World’s Smallest Airport, a documentary about the outrageous exploits of The Thrasher Brothers Aerial Circus. www.athenscine.com ART: MLKlay Day (Good Dirt) An out-of-school clay workshop. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $55. 706-355-3161 GAMES: Rock and Roll Trivia (Little Kings Shuffle Club) Get a team together and show off your extensive music knowledge every Monday night! Hosted by Jonathan Thompson. 8 p.m. FREE! www.myspace.com/littlekingsshuffleclub GAMES: Team Trivia (Beef ‘O’ Brady’s) Win house cash and prizes! Every Monday night. 8:30 p.m. FREE! 706-850-1916
Tuesday 17 ART: Art Lecture (Lyndon House Arts Center) UGA Proffessor Art Rosenbaum presents an evening of story and song detailing “The Role of Jewish Americans in American Folk Music and Folk Music Revival.” 7 p.m. FREE! www.clarke.public. lib.ga.us PERFORMANCE: Open TOAD Comedy (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A unique open mic experience. The audience gets to pelt the performers who go over their six-minute time limit with foam rocks. Performers get in FREE! but must sign up by 8 p.m. 8 p.m. $5. www.myspace.com/ flickerbar OUTDOORS: Street Hockey (No Location Specified) Pick-up games. All levels welcome. No equipment necessary. 6:30 p.m. athensfloorhockey@gmail.com KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a morning of stories, songs and crafts. For kids ages 2–5 and their caregivers. 10 & 11 a.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Toddler Storytime (ACC Library) For children ages 18 months to 5 years. Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 LECTURES & LIT.: Getting to Know Your iPad (PeachMac) Learn how to maximize iPad capabilities. 5–6 p.m. FREE! www. peachmac.com MEETINGS: Alzheimer’s Caregiver Luncheon Program (Bentley Center) The Athens Area Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the third Tuesday of every month for educational programs and a free lunch. RSVP required. 12 p.m. FREE! 706-549-4850, eanthony@ accaging.org MEETINGS: Athens Rock and Gem Club (Friendship Christian Church) After a short business meeting, a “Show and Tell.” 7:30 p.m. FREE! 706-549-8082 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 p.m. FREE! www.locosgrill.com
GAMES: Trivia (Shane’s Rib Shack, College Station) Every Tuesday! 7 p.m. 706-543-0050 GAMES: Trivia (Chango’s Asian Kitchen) Learn facts, eat noodles. 7:30 p.m. FREE! 706-546-0015 GAMES: Trivia with a Twist (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Throw a lime in your Coors Light and compete! Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m. 706354-1515
Wednesday 18 ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) Meet docents in the lobby for a tour of highlights from the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org KIDSTUFF: Karate Demo Class (Oconee County Library) For ages 3 & up. 3:30 p.m. FREE! 706-7693950 KIDSTUFF: Preschool & Toddler Storytime (Madison County Library) Includes stories, fingerpuppet plays, songs and crafts for literacy-based fun. For ages 0–5. 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-795-5597 KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a morning of stories, songs and crafts. For kids ages 2–5 and their caregivers. 10 & 11 a.m. FREE! 706-769-3950 KIDSTUFF: Toddler Storytime (ACC Library) For children ages 18 months to 5 years. Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 KIDSTUFF: Wildcard Wednesday for Teens (ACC Library) Up Next: Game Day! Play one of the library’s or bring your favorite from home to share. Ages 11–18. 4 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3650 LECTURES & LIT.: Climate Change Lecture (UGA Miller Learning Center, Room 214) UGA Ecology Professor James Porter presents “The Effects of Climate Change on Georgia: Past Trends/ Future Scenarios.” 12:15 p.m. FREE! 706-354-0321 GAMES: Sports Trivia (Beef ‘O’ Brady’s) Test your sports knowledge every Wednesday night. 8:30 p.m. FREE! 706-850-1916 GAMES: Trivia (Blind Pig Tavern) Think you know it all? Wednesdays, 8 p.m. (Baldwin St. location), 8:30 p.m. (Broad St. location). 706-5483442 GAMES: Trivia (Copper Creek Brewing Company) Test your trivia chops for prizes! Every Wednesday. 9 p.m. FREE! 706-546-1102 GAMES: Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Every Wednesday. 8 p.m. FREE! 706-613-0892 GAMES: Trivia (Willy’s Mexicana Grill) Every Wednesday. 8–10 p.m. FREE! 706-548-1920 GAMES: Trivia (Your Pie, 5 Points) Open your pie-hole for a chance to win! Every Wednesday. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.yourpie.com * Advance Tickets Available
Down the Line ART: Opening Reception 1/21 (Athens Institute for Contemporary Art (ATHICA)) For “Southern,” featuring work by Rodrecas Davis, Hope Hilton, Michael Lachowski, Stanley Bermudez, James Perry Walker and more. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.athica.org EVENTS: Bulldawg Brawl 1/21 (Georgia Theatre) Student boxers represent their fraternity or organization by duking it out in an all day event sanctioned by USA Boxing and benefitting UGA HEROs. 11:30 a.m. $25. www.georgiatheatre.com
EVENTS: HOPE 1/22 (Foundry Park Inn & Spa) Art auction, speakers, fund-raising and mental health awareness benefit. www.fightthestigma.com EVENTS: A Taste of Oconee 1/28 (Oconee County Civic Center) Sixth annual event hosted by the Oconee County Middle School Band and Chorus Boosters. 5–8 p.m. $20 (adv.), $25. www.tasteofoconee.com, www.facebook.com/atasteofoconee PERFORMANCE: Entre Flamenco Dance Company 1/28 (MadisonMorgan Cultural Center) Experience the emotional art form of flamenco in a performance of guitar music, singing and dancing. 8 p.m. $22 (students), $45. 706-342-4743, www.mmcc-arts.org LECTURES & LIT.: Symposium on Historic Mill Redevelopment 2/4 (Chase Street Elementary School) Four nationally- enowned speakers will detail the economic and cultural ramifications of redeveloping the Southern Mills property located one mile from downtown Athens. Part of the Preservation Matters series. Pre-registration required. 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. $35. 706353-1801, www.achfonline.org PERFORMANCE: Unchained Tour of Georgia 2/8 (The Melting Point) Featuring readings/performances by Elna Baker, Joan Juliet Buck, Edgar Oliver and more, with musical performances from Shovels and Rope. 7:30 p.m. $15. www. theunchainedtour.org KIDSTUFF: Second Saturday Storytime 2/11 (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Join the SCNC staff for stories about the woods and its resident creatures. 2:30–3 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3615, www. athensclarkecounty.com/sandycreeknaturecenter PERFORMANCE: International Championship of Collegiate a Cappella 2/11 (Morton Theatre) Varsity Vocals, with host UGA Noteworthy, presents a cappella with collegiate groups from all over the South competing for spots at the semi-final round. 7:30 p.m. $10–15. www.varsityvocals.com EVENTS: Athens Jewish Film Festival 2/12 (Morton Theatre) Featuring a lineup of critically acclaimed films that explore the Jewish identity, culture and experience. Feb. 12–14. www.athensjff.org PERFORMANCE: Circus Athena 2/17 (Morton Theatre) A neverbefore seen assembly of Athens’ own circus performers, featuring live music. 7 p.m. (Friday and Saturday), 2:30 p.m. (Saturday). $10–15. 706613-3771 EVENTS: The Miss Black A-CC Teen Pageant 4/22 (Morton Theatre) Contestants compete for awards in community service and academia in this 37th annual pageant. 5 p.m. $10 (adv.), $15. 706613-3771, www.mortontheatre.com * Advance Tickets Available
Live Music Tuesday 10 Hendershot’s Coffee Bar 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotscoffeebar.com IKE STUBBLEFIELD AND FRIENDS Soulful R&B artist Ike Stubblefield is a Hammond B3 virtuoso who cut his teeth backing Motown legends like the Four Tops, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. Featuring Seth Hendershot on drums. Every Tuesday!
The Melting Point Terrapin Tuesday. 7 p.m. $5. www. meltingpointathens.com NORTH GEORGIA BLUEGRASS BAND An eclectic blend of traditional and contemporary acoustic music.
Wednesday 11 Boar’s Head Lounge 9 p.m. 706-369-3040 OPEN MIC NIGHT Welcoming singer-songwriters every Wednesday. Farm 255 8 p.m. FREE! www.farm255.com DIAL INDICATORS Background sounds for dinner and cocktails. This jazz duo features Jeremy Roberts on guitar and George Davidson on tenor sax playing odd covers and improvising on familiar themes. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8:30 p.m. $5. www.flickertheatreandbar. com 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. STILL SMALL VOICE AND THE JOYFUL NOISE Local band plays garage-rock spirituals. Go Bar 10 p.m. 706-546-5609 MITTEN Synth pop from Brooklyn. SPACE GHOST Expect keyboard-driven pop from this local four-piece. ALLISON WEISS Heartfelt singer/ songwriter with quirky charm, sharp pop sensibilities and an avid online following.
Hendershot’s Coffee Bar 8–11 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotscoffeebar.com KENOSHA KID Centered around the instru-improv jazz compositions of guitarist Dan Nettles, Kenosha Kid also features Robby Handley (bass) and Marlon Patton (drums). The new originals spark like Booker T & the MG’s mixed with 20th-century harmony, and will appeal to indie noise rockers and jam-band fans alike. Every Wednesday in January! Little Kings Shuffle Club 10 p.m. $5. 706-369-3144 BASSHUNTER 64 Post-functionalist, psycedelic, electronic puke project. BUBBLY MOMMY GUN Local experimental pop band that plays idiosyncratic, psychedelic tunes. FUTURE APE TAPES Local twopiece creating psychedelic, experimental music driven by loops, beats, guitars and synths. LAUGHING EYE WEEPING EYE Chicagoans Rebecca Shoemaker and Patrick Holbrook create a multifaceted experience that incorporates harmonium, looped vocals, toy instruments, visuals and effects. See Calendar Pick on this page. The Melting Point 9 p.m. $10 (adv.), $12 (door). www. meltingpointathens.com HOMESICK ELEPHANT A husbandand-wife duo whose harmonies and whimsical lyrics are just as charming as the name implies. SARAH JAROSZ Twenty-year-old Americana and folk sensation performing an expansive variety of covers, as well as her own material. She’s got a sort of dreamy, Gillian Welch vibe. See story on p. 15.
The Office Lounge 9 p.m. FREE! 706-549-0840 KARAOKE With your host Lynn, the Queen of Karaoke! Ted’s Most Best 7 p.m. FREE! 706-543-1523 DJ JACK JIGGLES The gregarious host spins vintage R&B, soul and jazz for your enjoyment.
Thursday 12 Caledonia Lounge 9:30 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www. caledonialounge.com CURIOUS VOLUME Four-piece punk rock band from Staten Island. JEFFERS MORNING Rock trio from Athens. Fun, danceable power-chord pop/punk. NATIVE KID Local indie band with a lo-fi sound and country undertones. NO SUCH NOISE! Six dudes playing/ hollering/horn break-ing through some good humored pop-punk and ska tunes. Farm 255 10:30 p.m. FREE! www.farm255.com QUAILDOGS Folk-pop band from Atlanta. SUMILAN Technically proficient musicians playing progressive jam rock. 40 Watt Club 8 p.m. $30 (adv.). Portion of proceeds from all 3 nights will benefit Nuci’s Space. www.40watt.com DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS Local altcountry superstars. They will be performing three nights in a row for Homecoming 2012. See Calendar Pick on p. 18. k continued on next page
Wednesday, January 11
Laughing Eye Weeping Eye, Future Ape Tapes, Bubbly Mommy Gun, Basshunter 64 Little Kings Shuffle Club “We like to flip off conventions because it sucks to be in a straitjacket,” says Rebecca Schoenecker, the Laughing Eye Weeping Eye “primary singer/songwriter/ visionary” of Laughing Eye Weeping Eye. A quick listen to LEWE calls a great variety of adjectives to mind, but “conventional” definitely isn’t one of them. Schoenecker describes some of the ways LEWE “flips off” conventions: “Singing like coyotes, cross-dressing like a nightmare out of the thrift store or costume shop… singing spiritual Christian-inspired hymns as Pagans, singing very serious songs and ideas in a way that does not appear serious, encouraging people to engage in the lost art of thinking…” While the band’s sound is extremely dynamic and multi-layered, this Chicago-based act is a mere duo, with Schoenecker joined by multi-instrumentalist co-writer Patrick Holbrook. LEWE’s dedicated, imaginative utilization of nontraditional instruments and techniques is both fascinating and estranging. A harmonium Schoenecker bought in 2010 “caused something jagged and fierce to stir up in [her] soul; an outpouring of songs erupted, spewing forth princess hags, sirens and gnomes.” Nontraditional, indeed. “We play and choose our instruments like explorers; there is a sense of possibility and curiosity,” says Schoenecker. “The instruments have their own personalities, and we allow them to contribute to the songwriting.” Whether or not one enjoys LEWE’s sound seems almost irrelevant; the specter of such a bizarre and experimental approach to rendering art ought to entice even the least curious among us. Athenians who are “sick to death of the ‘serious, wispy female singer/songwriter and the male rock star masturbating with his guitar’ model” (Schoenecker’s words) are in for a refreshing, albeit likely confusing, evening; Laughing Eye Weeping Eye will fit right in with locals Future Ape Tapes, Bubbly Mommy Gun and Basshunter 64, all of whom strive to deliver what critic Darko Suvin calls “strange newness.” Look it up. [Kevin Craig]
JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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THE CALENDAR!
Tuesday, Jan. 10 continued from p. 17
FUTUREBIRDS Critically acclaimed local folk-rock band with a tattered, raspy edge and sweet harmonies, but they aren’t afraid to get rowdy, too.
DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS Local altcountry superstars. They will be performing three nights in a row for Homecoming 2012. See Calendar Pick on this page.
Georgia Bar 9:30 p.m. FREE! 706-546-9884 SCOTT LOW Local indie-folkster frontman for Efren plays two solo sets.
Go Bar 8 p.m. 706-546-5609 DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Hosted by karaoke fanatic John “Dr. Fred” Bowers and featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. Midnight. 706-546-5609 IMMUZIKATION Celebrated local DJ Alfredo Lapuz, Jr. hosts a dance party featuring high-energy electro and rock.
Go Bar 10 p.m. FREE! 706-546-5609 DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Hosted by karaoke fanatic John “Dr. Fred” Bowers and featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. The Melting Point 8:30 p.m. $5 (adv.), $7 (door). www. meltingpointathens.com AMERICAN ANODYNE Americanacountry under a coat of rusty Southern rock. JOHN KING BAND Young Southern rock band with a little twang. TUESDAY’S GONE Local country duo that plays mostly covers plus a handful of originals. No Where Bar 8 p.m. 706-546-4742 BUBONIK FUNK Charlotte jam quartet that knows how to squeeze out that sweet, sweet funk. EDDIE AND THE PUBLIC SPEAKERS Local blues-funk trio. The Office Lounge 8:30 p.m. 706-546-0840. THE SHADOW EXECUTIVES Get your fill of straight-up, authentic blues covers from this skilled Athens five-piece. Playing at “Blues Night” every Thursday at The Office Lounge. WUOG 90.5FM “Live in the Lobby.” 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org KING RICHARD’S SUNDAY BEST Four people on nine instruments playing folk rock.
Friday 13 The Bad Manor 9 p.m. FREE! (21+), $5 (18+ before 11 p.m.), $10 (18+ after 11 p.m.). www. thebadmanor.com FERAL YOUTH Banging electro house, dubstep, with a dash of top-40 remixes backed by video projections. Caledonia Lounge 11 p.m. www.caledonialounge.com KILL THE SCHOOL Local hard-rock band with a thrashy feel. SHEHEHE Vanguards of New American Jet Rock. Punk back beats and indie gang vocals all overlaid with arena leads. THUNDERCHIEF Local act with a West Coast punk sound influenced by classic rock. Farm 255 11 p.m. FREE! www.farm255.com FREE TOMORROW Sophisticated, high-energy live hip-hop band utilizing multiple genres to create a party vibe. The band is driven by keys, synths, bass and drums accented by the unique sound of a five-string electric violin. 40 Watt Club 8 p.m. SOLD OUT! www.40watt.com ALABAMA SHAKES Soul revival band that draws from the same 1960 and ‘70s funk and soul as Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, but with a more raucous, dirty blues edge.
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Highwire Lounge “Friday Night Jazz.” 8 p.m. FREE! www. highwirelounge.com RAND LINES Original compositions of pianish Rand Lines with drummer Ben Williams and bassist Mike Beshara. Little Kings Shuffle Club 10 p.m. $5. 706-369-3144 INCENDIARIES Ladies of pedigree enforcing angular sensibilities. Featuring local musicians Mandy Branch-Friar, Mary Joyce, Erika Rickson and Erica Strout. MAXIMUM BUSY MUSCLE Local tech-metal trio. The Melting Point 8:45 p.m. $6 (adv.), $9 (door). www. meltingpointathens.com BONOBOS CONVERGENCE Jam trio setting themselves apart by combining powerful rock, jazz and classical influences. THE OTHER BROTHERS BAND Allman Brothers tribute act. No Where Bar 10 p.m. $4. 706-546-4742 SHOWTIME Elite tha Showstoppa’s band plays eclectic hip-hop mixed with rockin’ funky soul. The Office Lounge 9 p.m. FREE! 706-546-0840 THE HANDS OF TIME Soul, funk, pop, R&B, Motown and classic oldschool hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s that will get you out on the dance floor.
Saturday 14 The Bad Manor 9 p.m. www.thebadmanor.com DJ RX Mixing rock, rap, dubstep and top hits synced to music videos on the big screen. Caledonia Lounge 10 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www.caledonialounge.com CAMPAIGN Anthemic punk rock from Atlanta with vocal harmonies and melodic guitar work. KARBOMB High-speed local punk band. LOS MEESFITS Local band offers Cuban salsa covers of Misfits tunes. MAGOO’S HEROS Playing ‘80s and “oi!” punk rock. Farm 255 11 p.m. FREE! www.farm255.com LIVE MUSIC Lineup TBA. 40 Watt Club 8 p.m. SOLD OUT! www.40watt.com CAMP AMPED ALL-STARS Young musicians who honed their craft at the Nuçi’s Space Camp Amped program. DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS See Calendar Pick on p. 18. FREE MOUNTAIN Local rock supergroup that made its debut at AthFest
FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
in 2010. Featuring guitarist Kevin Sweeney (Hayride), vocalist Jared Hasmuk (Dictatortots), bassist Bryan Howard (The HEAP) and drummer Mark Brill (Hayride) playing straightup, loud rock and roll! Georgia Theatre 9 p.m. $8. www.georgiatheatre.com BEAR LEFT Local jam rock band that wants to make you dance. EDDIE AND THE PUBLIC SPEAKERS Power trio featuring vocalist/bassist Eddie Speaker, guitarist Stephen Taylor and drummer Nic Wiles, this local act delivers an energetic show with a hitting rhythm section, funky riffs and soaring guitar solos filled with catchy hooks and harmonies. JOHANN GRECO Singer-songwriter whose sound is indebted to classic rock icons like Clapton, Hendrix, Dylan and Young. Go Bar 10 p.m. 706-546-5609 THE CURL Surf guitar classics and surf interpretations of modern tunes. DIP Members of Gun Party play silly songs that tend to mention the word “dip” a lot and really get the kids dancing. ROBERTA & CHARLENE Tonguein-cheek country vocals backed by synth beats. TWIN POWERS DJ Dan Geller (Gold Party, The Agenda) and friends spin late-night glam rock, new wave, Top 40, punk and Britpop. Hendershot’s Coffee Bar 8:30 p.m. www.hendershotscoffeebar. com ADAM PAYNE This local musician’s impressively versatile tenor is somewhat reminiscent of Neil Young’s. Acoustic set tonight with special guest Adam Poulin on violin. This is Payne’s first hometown gig in over a year! Little Kings Shuffle Club 10 p.m. $5. 706-369-3144 EUREKA CALIFORNIA Melodic, guitar-driven indie rock influenced by bands like Guided by Voices. GREY MILK This edgy folk-rock outfit recently relocated to the Classic City from New England. SLAW AND ORDER Local drum and keys duo performs tambourine-rich pop tracks. TENDABERRY Funky, soulful postpunk. Think Rick James sitting in with Gang of Four. Max 10:30 p.m. FREE! 706-254-3392 DJS MAHOGANY AND EASYRIDER Come saddle up with Mahogany and Easyrider as the two local DJs spin old-school country music hits from the ‘60’s, ‘70s and ‘80s. The National 11:30 p.m. FREE! www.thenationalrestaurant.com BACK TO SCHOOL DANCE PARTY Immuzikation is behind the decks! No Where Bar 12:30 a.m. $3. 706-546-4742 KALEIGH BAKER Jazzy, blues-rock powerhouse. Nuçi’s Space Pre-Show Party & DBT Memorabilia Auction. 4:30 p.m. www.nuci.org MARK CUNNINGHAM & THE NATIONALS Local band plays soulful, heartfelt Americana. Cunningham draws from Athens’ stalwarts like R.E.M. and Chickasaw Mudd Puppies alongside classic country artists like Johnny Cash, Gram Parsons and Steve Earle.
Thursday, January 12– Saturday, January 14
Drive-By Truckers 40 Watt Club By the time you read this, the Drive-By Trucker Homecoming Weekend & Nuçi’s Space Benefit shows will have sold out, making fewer by three your opportunities to catch a band spending most of 2012 on a well deserved respite from the road. There are families to raise, batteries to recharge and other songs to sing. A few days into the new year, Flagpole finds itself at DBT headquarters where drummer Brad Morgan is working on his latest side project: building quality, custom road-cases for bands to transport gear. A decade ago, did Morgan ever imagine the band would have a bona fide HQ, a space where gear and memorabilia and stage props and Dr. Pepper could be so easily stored and archived? “I thought it was all post-office boxes,” he admits. Naturally, the recent loss of bassist Shonna Tucker is something fans of the band are curious about. As the other half of the rhythm section, Morgan seems confident that the transition will be smooth. “With Patterson and Cooley, there’s always been a lot of bass players. Even in Adam’s House Cat, they always had trouble keeping a bass player,” he says with a laugh before chronicling the band’s bassist history, from Adam Howell to Rob Malone to Earl Hicks, and the long run with Tucker. “I’m always used to change, you know… I love them all. They’ve all taught be something.” As for Tucker’s successor, will there be a permanent replacement? Will they showcase special guests as needed? Can we expect [legendary bassist and DBT guitarist Patterson Hood’s father] David Hood to come out of retirement? “I’m sure all that will probably happen…” Morgan speculates, before adding, “David Hood is not retired; he’s a very busy fellow… Whoever’s available—David Barbe’s very busy with school, so we can’t really take him away from that, but we’ve got a couple of other options.” Stay tuned, Trucker Nation. [David Eduardo]
The Office Lounge 9:30 p.m. FREE! 706-546-840 BREATHLANES Led by guitarist/ composer John Miley, Breathlanes features atmospheric, organic tones. Featuring Dave Spivey (keys, accordian), Steve Abercrmbie (bass) and Nathan Hale (drums).
Sunday 15 The Georgian Tap Room 6 p.m. www.thecapitalroom.com OPEN MIC Every Sunday. THE SHADOW EXECUTIVES Get your fill of straight-up, authentic blues covers from this skilled Athens five-piece. Every Sunday at the Tap Room, followed by a round of open mic performances. Highwire Lounge 9 p.m. FREE! www.highwirelounge.com CICADA RHYTHM Athens/Atlanta acoustic guitar and upright bass duo playing bluegrass-tinged indie folk. The Melting Point 7 p.m. $5 (adv.), $7 (door). ALL AGES WELCOME. www.meltingpointathens.com 706 Local high school-aged rock band. JUSTIFIED TRUE BELIEF New band featuring indie-rock originals by Second Sons bassist Henry Barbe. KICK THE ROBOT Power-pop trio.
Monday 16 Buffalo’s Southwest Café 6–10 p.m. $5. 706-613-5386, www. buffaloscafe.com/athens SHAG NIGHT Bring your dancing shoes for shag dancing in the BBR. Go Bar 10 p.m. 706-546-5609 THE STARLITE DEVILLES Straightforward, country-inflected rock. SOFIA TALVIK Swedish musician who blends elements of folk and pop, making use of many acoustic instruments including violin, cello, trombone and guitar.
Tuesday 17 Caledonia Lounge 9:30 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www. caledonialounge.com BOOMFOX Local rock band formerly known as The Sunlight Alchemists, the group describes itself as “Adele meets Stone Temple Pilots.” CONNOR PLEDGER Singersongwriter whose mostly acoustic sound is influenced by acts like Dave Matthews, John Mayer and Jack Johnson. STREET RHYTHM & RHYME Local four-piece jams on funk, reggae, jazz and blues.
Hendershot’s Coffee Bar 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotscoffeebar.com IKE STUBBLEFIELD AND FRIENDS Soulful R&B artist Ike Stubblefield is a Hammond B3 virtuoso who cut his teeth backing Motown legends like the Four Tops, The Temptations and Marvin Gaye. Featuring Seth Hendershot on drums. The Melting Point “Terrapin Tuesday.” 7:30 p.m. $5. www. meltingpointathens.com KENNEY BLACKMON BAND David Blackmon (Mosier Brothers, Widespread Panic) with guitarist Jason Kenney (Homegrown Revival) and Noel Blackmon (Klezmer Local 42) debut their new project tonight. WUOG 90.5FM “Live in the Lobby.” 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org THE ROMANS This Atlanta band combines elements of dark new wave, ‘80s pop and alternative.
Wednesday 18 Caledonia Lounge 9:30 p.m. $5 (21+), $7 (18+). www. caledonialounge.com LULLWATER Gritty yet melodic local rock band that pairs Southern rock with ‘90s alternative.
THE RESISTANCE Local hard rock trio. TASTES LIKE GOOD Local band mixes alt- and classic rock into a loud and rhythmic soundscape. Farm 255 8 p.m. FREE! www.farm255.com CALEB DARNELL Member of The Darnell Boys and Bellyache performs as part of Jazz Night. Georgia Theatre 9 p.m. $10. www.georgiatheatre.com* ZOSO Led Zeppelin covers performed with stunning accuracy. Expect a mix of hits and deep cuts. Go Bar 10 p.m. 706-546-5609 A TROOP OF ECHOES This Providence, RI band marries noisy, brutal experimental sounds with melodic rock. Featuring “muscular bass, agile saxophone and lithe guitar.” THE SKIPPERDEES Charming local acoustic duo with rich, folky vocal harmonies and a sense of humor. Hendershot’s Coffee Bar 8–11 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotscoffeebar.com KENOSHA KID Centered around the instru-improv jazz compositions of guitarist Dan Nettles, Kenosha Kid also features Robby Handley (bass) and Marlon Patton (drums). The new originals spark like Booker T & the MG’s mixed with 20th-century harmony, and will appeal to indie noise rockers and jam-band fans alike. Every Wednesday in January! The Melting Point 8 p.m. $12 (adv), $15 (door). www. meltingpointathens.com LINDSAY FULLER Southern Gothic songwriter known for her storytelling lyrics. AMY RAY The acclaimed Indigo Girl trades in her acoustic guitar for an electrified solo set featuring tracks off her new album, Didn’t It Feel Kinder. ROXIE WATSON Five-piece “alternagrass” string band from Decatur, GA. New Earth Music Hall 7–9 p.m.$8. www.newearthmusichall. com ZUMBA NIGHT Hosted by Amanda. DJ and dance party to follow. The Office Lounge 9 p.m. FREE! 706-549-0840 KARAOKE With your host Lynn, the Queen of Karaoke! * Advance Tickets Available
Down the Line 1/19 Lunice / MiMOSA (Georgia Theatre)* 1/19 The Habit / The Less (40 Watt Club) 1/19 Vincent the Dog (Farm 255) 1/19 Curmudgeon / Gnarx / Gripe (Little Kings Shuffle Club) 1/19 BKB & The Broadcast / Betsy Franck (No Where Bar) 1/19 The Shadow Executives (The Office Lounge) 1/20 Holy Ghost Tent / Langhorne Slim (40 Watt Club)* 1/20 Bambara / Life Coach (Caledonia Lounge) 1/20 Caroline Aiken (George’s Lowcountry Table) 1/20 Holy Liars / The Interns / New Madrid / The Woodfangs (Georgia Theatre) 1/20 Brad Downs and the Poor Bastard Souls / Efren (No Where Bar) 1/20 Randall Bramblett Band (The Melting Point)*
1/21 The O’s / Old 97’s / Those Darlins (40 Watt Club)* 1/21 Easter Island / The Romans / The Empties (Caledonia Lounge) 1/21 Cloak & Dagger Dating Service / Crun Pun / Gnarx / Gripe / Kater Mass / Ethan Ogletree / Rottgut / Shehehe / So It Goes / The Fact / The Fuzzlers / Triangle Fire / Wrist Bandits / You’re Mean, I’m You (Little Kings Shuffle Club) 1/21 Mountain Heart / Tony Rice (The Melting Point)* 1/22 Open Mic (The Georgian Tap Room) 1/22 Don Auber / Brandon Nelson McCoy (Highwire Lounge) 1/23 Line Dancing (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) 1/24 Ike Stubblefield and Friends (Hendershot’s Coffee Bar) 1/25 Karaoke (The Office Lounge) 1/25 Colt Ford (Georgia Theatre) 1/25 Kenosha Kid (Hendershot’s Coffee Bar) 1/25 Erick Baker / Callaghan (The Melting Point)* 1/26 Delicate Cutters / Ginger Envelope / Moths (Caledonia Lounge) 1/26 Bad Girl / Green Gerry / Pressed And (Farm 255) 1/26 Emancipator / Little People (Georgia Theatre) 1/26 Snap! (No Where Bar) 1/27 Townes Van Zandt Tribute (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 1/27 Yacht Rock Revue (Georgia Theatre)* 1/27 Agobi Project / Ployd / Rooftop Society (New Earth Music Hall) 1/28 Cicada Rhythm (Farm 255) 1/28 Highstrung String Band / Packway Handle Band / Yo Soybean (Georgia Theatre) 1/28 Deja Vu (The Melting Point) 1/30 The Mountain Goats / Nurses (40 Watt Club) 1/30 Beacon / Tycho (Georgia Theatre)* 2/2 Carolina Chocolate Drops (Georgia Theatre) 2/3 The Four Thieves (Terrapin Beer Co.) 2/3 Anvil / The Athens Band (The Melting Point) 2/4 Polish Ambassador / Zoogma (Georgia Theatre) 2/4 Domino Effect (No Where Bar) 2/4 Sons of Sailors (The Melting Point) 2/6 Shag Night (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) 2/7 Seth Winters (No Where Bar) 2/7 String Theory (The Melting Point) 2/8 Steve Aoki / Datsik (The Bad Manor) 2/9 The B-52s (The Classic Center) 2/10 Andrew, Scott & Laura / Jeff Mangum (40 Watt Club) 2/10 Grains of Sand (The Melting Point) 2/11 Andrew, Scott & Laura / Jeff Mangum (40 Watt Club) 2/11 Elvis’ Burning Love Valentine’s Show (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) 2/11 Medeski Martin & Wood (Georgia Theatre) 2/11 Illicitizen (Terrapin Beer Co.) 2/13 Tom Green (Georgia Theatre) 2/14 David Prince (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) 2/17 of Montreal (Georgia Theatre) 2/17 Don Williams (The Classic Center) 2/24 Club 6 Disco Night (Buffalo’s Southwest Café) 2/24 Sam Bush (Georgia Theatre)* 2/28 The Lemonheads (40 Watt Club) 2/28 The Real Nasty (No Where Bar) 2/29 Blind Pilot (40 Watt Club) 2/29 California Guitar Trio / Shaun Hopper (The Melting Point) * Advance Tickets Available
What’s Your
Favorite?
Eat. Drink. Listen Closely. TUESDAY, JANUARY 10 Terrapin Tuesday Series featuring
NORTH GEORGIA BLUEGRASS BAND
$5 admission • $2 Terrapin Pints!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11
SARAH JAROSZ HOMESICK ELEPHANT
Tickets $10 adv • $12 at the door
THURSDAY, JANUARY 12
JOHN KING BAND
AMERICAN ANODYNE & TUESDAY’S GONE Tickets $5 adv. • $7 at the door • $5 with UGA ID
2012
FRIDAY, JANUARY 13
At hens Favorites
OTHER BROTHERS BAND (Allman Brothers Tribute)
BONOBOS CONVERGENCE
Tickets $6 adv • $9 at the door • $5 with UGA ID
SUNDAY, JANUARY 15 ALL AGES SHOW with
JUSTIFIED TRUE BELIEF 706 BAND & KICK THE ROBOT Tickets $5 adv • $7 at the door • EARLY SHOW 7PM
TUESDAY, JANUARY 17 Terrapin Tuesday Series featuring
KENNEY BLACKMON BAND Reader Picks
$5 admission • $2 Terrapin Pints!
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18 An Acoustic Evening with
Flagpole wants to know where you like to go. Beginning January 18th go to flagpole.com and vote for your most treasured for each of the categories.
We will let everyone know what Athens locals like most about their town. Voting deadline is Feb. 3rd and the Favorites will be announced in the Feb 29th issue of Flagpole. FavoritE FavoritE ' RESTAURANTS PETS & KIDS STUFF FavoritE BARS
FavoritE BUSINESSES
FavoritE MUSIC
FavoritE SERVICES
AMY RAY (of The Indigo Girls) with LINDSAY FULLER, JEFF FIELDER, ROXIE WATSON
Tickets $12 adv • $15 at the door
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19
JAZZCHRONIC with VERTIGO JAZZ PROJECT
Tickets $5 adv • $7 at the door (or $5 with UGA ID)
FRIDAY, JANUARY 20
RANDALL BRAMBLETT BAND Tickets $15 adv • $18 at the door $45 Table for two • $90 Table for four
SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 Rich Mullinax and Foundry Entertainment present...
TONY RICE AND MOUNTAIN HEART Tickets $21 adv • $25 at the door
UPCOMING EVENTS 2.9 1.24 1.25 1.26 1.27 1.28 1.31 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.7 2.8
WHISKEY OF THE DAMNED ERICK BAKER, CALLAGHAN FAREWELL DRIFTERS, DARNELL BOYS @GA Theatre YACHT ROCK REVUE DEJA VU: Tribute to CSN&Y KLEZMER LOCAL 42 @GA Theatre CAROLINA CHOCOLATE DROPS ANVIL, ATHENS SONS OF SAILORS STRING THEORY UNCHAINED STORY TELLERS with SHOVELS & ROPE LOCATED ON THE GROUNDS OF
2.10 2.11 2.14 2.16 2.21 2.24 2.27 2.29 3.3 3.8 3.15 3.22 3.28 4.6
THE WHISKEY GENTRY, HAVE GUN WILL TRAVEL, ADAM KLEIN & THE WILD FIRES GRAINS OF SAND BRANDI CARLILE Valentine’s Dinner & Show with FRANCINE REED PASSAFIRE with LOWDRIVE TAB BENOIT - FAT TUESDAY MIKE COOLEY (of DRIVE-BY TRUCKERS) CARBON LEAF with TIM BRANTLEY CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO LAUGHING PIZZA Children’s Show STEPHEN KELLOGG & THE SIXERS COLIN HAY (of Men at Work) ANDY McKEE LEO KOTTKE ABIGAIL WASHBURN
295 E. DOUGHERTY ST., ATHENS, GA
706.254.6909
WWW.MELTINGPOINTATHENS.COM
FOR TICKETS & SHOWTIMES OR CALL THE BOX OFFICE 706.254.6909
Trivia Every Thursday at 8pm with $5 Domestic Beer Pitchers
LocaLLy owned!
FREE CHEESE DIP
with purchase of 2 Entrees & 2 Drinks Expires 1/18/12. Not valid with any other offer. Dine-in only.
3523 Atlanta Hwy. (Next to Academy Sports) • 706-353-7771
JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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bulletin board DO SOMETHING; GET INVOLVED! Deadline for getting listed in Bulletin Board and Art Around Town is every THURSDAY at 12 p.m. Email calendar@flagpole.com. Listings are printed based on available space; more listings are online.
ART 37th Juried Exhibition: Call for Artists (Lyndon House Arts Center) Professionally oriented art competition seeks submissions from Athens area artists working in visual media. Submit 1-3 works of art to the Lyndon House on Jan. 26 between 12:30–8:30 p.m. or Jan. 27 between 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $25 (entry fee). 706-613-3623 Call for Designers and Models (ATHICA) Seeking models and designers for the “Trashy Fashion Show,” a collection of raw and recycled materials made into wearable art. Show is on Apr. 22. Deadline to apply is Feb. 22. trashyfash@athica.org, www.athica.org/ callforentries.phpmail Call for Entries (Georgia Museum of Art) Seeking responses to the Kress Collection in all media through Feb. 1. No entry fee. $500 prize for 24 selected artists, writers, musicians, etc. See www.georgia museum.org/kressproject for details. Call for Entries (ATHICA) “Upcycle: Dream It Out of the Waste Stream” is accepting submissions for an exhibit of fine art made from raw materials through creative re-use. Presenters and performers are also needed. Visit www.athica. org/callforentries.php to submit. Deadline Jan. 30.
AUDITIONS Charlotte’s Web (Quinn Hall, Memorial Park) For ages 7 & up. No appointment or preparation necessary. Children must be able to read and write. Show dates are Mar. 30 & 31. 6:30–9 p.m. FREE! www.athens creativetheatre.com
The Comedy of Errors (Rose of Athens Theatre) Open to teens and adults. Prepare a one-minute classical or Shakespearean monologue. Call-backs are held later in the evening and on Jan. 12. Jan. 11, 6–7:30 p.m. FREE! 706-340-9181, danielle@roseofathens.org
CLASSES Adult Dance Classes (East Athens Community Center) Classes offered in adult ballet, tap dance, praise dance, hip hop, line dancing, modern dance, exercise and weight control. Call for info. 706-613-3624 Adult Literacy Comprehensive Workshop (Northeast Georgia Regional Commission) Teacher/tutor workshop focusing on strengthening reading comprehension, fluency and vocabulary knowledge. Sponsored by the Athens-Clarke Literacy Council. RSVP by Jan. 18. Jan. 21, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $10. 706-254-9877, www.athensliteracy.org/workshops Adult Martial Arts (American Black Belt Academy) New classes for a new you. Check website for dates. www.americanblackbelt.org Athens Yoshukai Karate (Athens Yoshukai Karate) Traditional Okinawan hard-style karate taught in a positive atmosphere. FREE! www.athensy.com Botanically Inspired Silk Scarf Creations (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Tie one on! Learn to dye your own silk scarves. Jan. 24, 6–8 p.m. $36. 706-542-6156 Classes at Full Bloom (Full Bloom Center) Offering courses in preparing for birth, hypnobirthing and yoga. Check website for calendar. www.fullbloomparent.com
ACC ANIMAL CONTROL
125 Buddy Christian Way • 706-613-3540 Open every day except Wednesday 10am-4pm
Clay Classes (Good Dirt) Weekly “Try Clay” classes ($20/person) introduce participants to the potter’s wheel every Friday from 7-9 p.m. “Family Try Clay” classes show children and adults hand-building methods every Sunday from 2-4 p.m. 706-355-3161, www.gooddirt.net Computer Tutorials (ACC Library) Choose from a list of topics for personalized instruction. Call to register. 706-613-3650, ext. 354 Dance Classes (Dancefx) Ballet, tap, hip-hop, Zumba, contemporary, ballroom, Latin, swing, karate, clogging and exercise classes like Pilates and body sculpting. Check website for schedule. 706-3553078, www.dancefx.org Earth Skills Series: Friction Fire (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Rekindle your ancestral relationship with nature by experiencing ancient earth living skills. In this session, develop the skill to create fire from materials in the wild. Bring a sack lunch. Feb. 4, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $66. 706-542-6156, www.uga. edu/botgarden Eight Silken Qigong (Red Lotus Institute) Experience moving meditation to improve your health and harmonize your mind, body and spirit. Saturdays, 9-10 a.m. $10. www.acupunctureathens.com Figure Drawing Sessions (Fringe Collective Artistic Studios) Weekly drop-in sessions for artists wishing to draw the human figure. Must be over age 18. Sundays, 2–4 p.m. $10. 706-540-2727, fringecollective@live.com Fit for Life (East Athens Community Center) Basic exercise and weight control for ages 18 & up. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 6–7 p.m. FREE! 706-6133593, www.athensclarkecounty.com/ eastathens
Gorgeous blonde shepherd with light brown eyes. He weighs about 70 pounds but is very thin. Neutered, only about 2 years old. Social and friendly.
This smart and regal girl Happy Lab mix puppy Two of the sweetest little dogs in the world! Very cannot understand why she has never known a is in doggie jail. She was sad moment. He’ll do small, quiet Beagle pals. surrendered and is feeling anything to get you to On the left, is the girl lost. She looks like a corgi play with him. Fun little who loves attention and (lowrider) mix, is quite guy who will grow up a lap. So does her friend, but he is just a bit shyer. dignified, and housebroken. to be a big dog.
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ACC ANIMAL CONTROL 12 Dogs Received, 14 Dogs Placed! 12 Cats Received, 5 Cats Placed ATHENS AREA HUMANE SOCIETY 4 Animals Received, 6 Animals Placed, 0 Healthy, Adoptable Animals Euthanized
FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
34694 more local adoptable cats and dogs at
athenspets.net
Lucienne Bloch’s painting “The Flint Flood” is on display at the GMOA through Feb. 27. Garden Geology (State Botanical Garden) Explore the Georgia Piedmont and Eastern Blueridge rock types found at the garden. Fee includes Rocks of the Piedmont by Dan Williams. Wednesdays, Jan. 11–Feb. 29, 4–6 p.m. $40. 706542-6156, www.uga.edu/botgarden Gentle Hatha Drop-In Yoga (St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church) From certified instructor Mike Healy. Tuesdays, 5:30–7 p.m. $9. 706-5430162, www.mindfuliving.org Glass Fusing Workshop (Good Dirt) Make a fused and slumped square glass bowl. Call to register. Jan.22, 2–4 p.m. $60. 706355-3161, www.gooddirt.net Improvisational Comedy Workshop (Floorspace) Lisa Mende, professional actress and comedian, leads an 8 week class for beginning actors. Begins Jan. 14. $120 (before Dec. 14), $160. www.floorspaceathens.com Ladies’ Non-Contact Cardio Boxing (Lay Park) Build muscle strength, balance and coordination. Call for more info. BYOGloves. Wednesdays through Apr. 23, 7–8 p.m. $10. 706-613-3596, www.athensclarkecounty.com/lay Native Plant Symposium (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) A day-long program about gardening with wildflowers, medicinals and other native plants along with related conservation issues. Jan. 18, 8:45 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $62. 706-542-6156, ckeber@uga.edu “Searching After Sunset” (Oconee County Library) Beginner genealogists are invited to learn
the best methods to conduct family research at this four-hour workshop. Jan. 20, 6–10 p.m. FREE! 706-7693950 Tai Chi (Rocksprings Community Center & Park) Senior adults can learn the ancient art of Tai Chi and use flowing movements to connect the mind and body, reduce stress and improve circulation. Thursdays. 11 a.m. $3 (ACC residents). $5 (non-ACC residents). www.athens clarkecounty.com/rocksprings Theatre Program for Cognitive Disabilities (Quinn Hall, Memorial Park) A program for teens and adults with cognitive disabilities that focuses on simple monologues, theatre skits and improv. Mondays, Jan. 9–Feb. 13, 1–2 p.m. $30. 706-613-3628, www.athensclarkecounty.com/act Watercolor Painting Inspired by Nature (State Botanical Garden) Designed for students with a variety of skill levels, but one should have basic experience with this medium. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $220. www.uga.edu/botgarden Winter Classes (Good Dirt) Now registering for clay classes, wheel throwing, handbuilding and sculpture. Classes begin January 14. 706-355-3161, www.gooddirt.net
HELP OUT! Blood Drive (Red Cross Donor Center) Give the gift of life! Call to make an appointment today. 706546-0681, 1-800-RED-CROSS, www.redcrossblood.org
CASA Volunteer Orientation (Children First Pope Street Cottage) Athens-Oconee Court-Appointed Special Advocates is holding orientation for those interested in advocating for abused and neglected children. Jan. 19, 6 p.m. 706-6131922, www.childrenfirst-inc.org Turn Conflicts into Opportunities (Call for location) Earn a practitioner certificate for personal use or as a step to being a trainer in conflict management. 706-340-3439, www.georgiaconflict center.com
KIDSTUFF 22nd annual “Give Wildlife a Chance” Poster Contest (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Artwork must portray Georgia nongame (not legally hunted, trapped or fished) wildlife and plants. Any student in grades K-5 is eligible to participate. Call for more info. Entries due by Mar. 28. 706-5426156, www.georgiawildlife.com, www.uga.edu/botgarden. Arts in the Afternoon (East Athens Community Center) Afterschool program teaches arts and crafts and allows children to create original artwork. Ages 6–15. Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30– 5:30 p.m. FREE! 706-61-3593 Imagine That! (Lyndon House Arts Center) Kids will participate in drawing activities that encouage creativity. Ages 7–10. Thursdays, Jan. 12–Feb. 16. 4–5 p.m. $41 (ACC residents), $59. 706-613-3623
Kids’ Classes (East Athens Community Center) Classes offered in ballet, praise dance, tap dancing, accelerated dance, hip-hop, jazz, and kinderdancing. Call for information. 706-613-3624 Snow Day (Memorial Park) Snow games, wintry crafts, cold weather treats and learning about what the animals a Bear Hollow do when it gets cold. Register by Feb. 8. 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m. $15. 705-613-3580. Theatre Classes (Athens Little Playhouse) Beginning and intermediate level drama classes. Begins Jan. 17. Tuesdays, 5–6 p.m. (beginner). Thursdays, 5–6 p.m. (intermediate).$65 (per month). athenslittleplayhouse@gmail.com Yoga Sprouts (Memorial Park) Fun, playful yoga and crafts for kids ages 2 and up. Register by Mar. 14. 706-613-3580 Youth Soccer (Southeast Clarke Park) Co-ed league for children 4–11 years old. Through Mar. 3 (Registration). $65. 706-613-3871, www.accleisureservices.com/soccer
SUPPORT Athens Area Parents and Children Together New group for families with adopted children. Email for monthly meetings. Stacy, 770-601-3042, athensadoptivepact@gmail.com Emotional Abuse Support Group (Call for location) Demeaning behavior can be just as harmful as punches and kicks. Childcare is provided. Call the Project Safe hotline: 706-543-3331. Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m. Mental Health Support Groups (St. Mary’s Hospital) Meets in the lobby conference room. NAMI Connections, 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month. Emotions Anonymous, 2nd and 4th Thursdays. Thursdays, 6:30–8 p.m. 706-5401320, www.athensmentalhealth.org Survive and Revive (Call for location) Domestic violence support group. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. and group at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is pro-
ART AROUND TOWN Amici Italian Café (233 E. Clayton St.) Paintings by Teri Levine. Through January. Antiques and Jewels (290 N. Milledge) Paintings by Mary Porter, Lana Mitchell, Taylor Dubeau and others. Art on the Side Gallery and Gifts (1011B Industrial Blvd., Watkinsville) A gallery featuring works by various artists in media including ceramics, paintings and fused glass. Artini’s Art Lounge (296 W. Broad St.) Vernon Thornsberry’s classical oil paintings interjected with his own life experiences. Through January. ArtLand Gallery (2 S. Main St, Watkinsville) Works by Hatidza Mulic. Through Jan. 15. Athens Academy (1281 Spartan Rd.) “Keeping Watch” includes recent work by Georgia Sea Grant artists. Through Feb. 24. Athens Institute for Contemporary Art (ATHICA) (160 Tracy St.) “Southern” features work from Rodrecas Davis, Hope Hilton, Michael Lachowski, Sam Seawright, James Perry Walker and more. Through March 4. Aurum Studios (125 E. Clayton St.) Paintings by Rich Panico and Coco. Through Jan. 17. Big City Bread Cafe (393 N. Finley St.) Abstract and figurative paintings by Ainhoa Bilbao Canup. Through January. Ciné Bar Cafe (234 W. Hancock Ave.) Drawings and collapsible sculptures by Layet Johnson. Through Jan. 15. Congregation Children of Israel (115 Dudley Dr.) “A Fine Romance: Jewish Songwriters, American Songs, 1910–1965” uses images from broadway musicals, classic films and personal collections. Through Feb. 24. Dawg Gone Good BBQ (224 W. Hancock Ave.) “Face Off Reprise” features photos of the recent Athens Face/Off show at the 40 Watt by Barbara Hutson. Through January. Etienne Brasserie (311 E. Broad St.) Oil paintings by Manty Dey. Through January. Farmington Depot Gallery (1011 Salem Rd., Farmington) Owned and staffed by 16 artists, the gallery exhibits paintings, sculpture, folk art, ceramics, fine furniture and more. Permanent collection artists include Leigh Ellis, Suzanna Antonez, Matt Alston, Michael Pierce and more. Flicker Theatre & Bar (263 W. Washington St.) Artwork by Gabriel Ricks. Through January. Floorspace (160 Tracy St.) “Psithurism” features works using reclaimed wood by artists Justin and Jul Sexton and visiting artist Savvy Dee. Through January. Georgia Museum of Art (90 Carlton St.) “All Creatures Great and Small” features works depicting animals created by self-taught American artists. Through Apr. 20. • Pioneering artist Bill Viola brought video art to greater prominence in the contemporary art world of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Through Feb. 19. • “Georgia Bellflowers” is devoted to antique dealer and furniture maker Henry Eugene Thomas. Through Apr. 15. • “Horizons” includes 12 androgynous, life-sized cast-iron figures by Icelandic artist Steinunn Dorarinsdottir. Through Jan. 31. •
vided. Second and fourth Tuesday of the month in Clarke County. First and third Monday in Madison County. 6:30–8 p.m. Project Safe: 706-543-3357, ext. 771
ON THE STREET Circus Athena (Call for location) Circus Athena is looking for circus talent for its production on Feb. 17 & 18. Visit the website to set up an audition. www.circusathena.com Film Athens Now seeking a lead designer for the next Sprockets Music Video Competition. Must be proficient in Photoshop, etc. Email statement of interest and examples to sprockets@filmathens.net, www.filmathens.net Seeking Runners and Volunteers (Weaver D’s Fine Foods) Extra Special People seeks runners and volunteers for its 2nd Annual Dream to Be Able ML5K on Jan. 16. samantha@extraspecialpeople.com, active.com f
Temporary display complementing “Dale Nichols: Transcending Regionalism,” featuring images of the Midwest by American artists from the permanent collection of the GMOA as well as objects on extended loan from the collection of Jason Schoen, Princeton, NJ. Through Feb. 27. • “Introduction to the Centers” is a small, daily exhibition introducing the Henry D. Green Center for the Study of the Decorative Arts, one of the four new units of the museum. Through Mar. 4. • “Lycett China” contains 30 painted porcelain pieces by Edward Lycett. Through Mar. 4. The Grit (199 Prince Ave.) Recent oil paintings by Keith Burgess. Through Jan. 29. Heirloom Cafe and Fresh Market (815 N. Chase St.) Photography by Sarah Laurentius Ellis. Through January. Hendershot’s Coffee Bar (1560 Oglethorpe Ave.) “Monuments to Empire” features large photo murals by Tobin Russell Brogunier. Opening reception Jan. 13. Through Feb. 4. Highwire Lounge (269 N. Hull St.) A range of watercolor aerial city views, abstract color fields and pen-and-ink drawings by Michelle Chidester. Through January. Jittery Joe’s Coffee (297 E. Broad St.) Large portraits by Lea Purvis. Just Pho…and More (1063 Baxter St.) “Funky Fruits and More” includes a variety of paintings, prints and new work from Pamela Rodgers Smith. Through January. Last Resort Grill (184 W. Clayton St.) Fine art photography focusing on new work from China, classic images of St. Andrews Old Course and local favorites by Sally Ross. Through January. Lyndon House Arts Center (293 Hoyt St.) “Community,” features works of art by by students of the Clarke County School District, emphasizing the theme of community and connection. Madison-Morgan Cultural Center (434 S. Main St.) “Scapes” is an exhibition of landscapes, cityscapes and seascapes by Steffen Thomas. Through Feb. 18. Mama’s Boy (197 Oak St.) Various artists assembled by Convergence Artist Productions and The Wheel Alliance. Through January. OCAF (34 School St.) Paintings by June F. Johnston. Opening reception Jan. 13. Through Feb. 10. Oconee County Library (1080 Experiment Station Rd.) Jewelry by Sylvia Dawe. Through January. • Watercolor paintings by Radha Murthy and Mindy Mendelsohn. Through January. Republic Salon (312 E. Broad St.) Cut paper portraits by David Broughton. Through January. StudiO (675 Pulaski St.) “Breathing Room” is a collection of landscape photography by Brian Cole. Through January. Trace Gallery (160 Tracy St.) Detailed and colorful artwork by Jim Barsness. Through Jan. 20. Visionary Growth Gallery (2400 Booger Hill Rd., Danielsville) “Drawing Pretty Pictures Is a Way to Meet God in the World Like It Is” features works by Lois Curtis, Carter Wellborn, Peter Loose, Alpha Andrews, Betty Wansley and Annie Wellborn. Through April. Walker’s Coffee & Pub (128 College Ave.) Ink and watercolor paintings of local scenes by Jamie Calkin. Through January.
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comics a benefit for Nuçi’s Space What would happen if you and your co-workers formed a band and were given a chance to perform in front of a sold-out crowd at the world-famous 40 Watt Club in downtown Athens, GA?
• Register online by noon on January 17th and receive free rehearsal time at Nuçi’s Space • You only need to prepare 15 minutes of cover songs (about 3 songs) to participate • Have fun playing music while helping to raise funds for a great local nonprofit organization Performances start February 2nd, 3rd and 4th at the 40 Watt Club Grand Finale Event on Saturday, February 18th, 2012 visit our website for details
www.athensbusinessrocks.com 22
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Matters Of The Heart And Loins I have a crush on this guy whom I work with. We’ve known each other for a couple of years, and he is kind of messed up. He drinks too much and obviously doesn’t take great care of himself, but he’s smart and he is a really talented musician. I seem to always be attracted to guys who seem like they need help. My friend who works with me thinks I’m crazy. She thinks he is immature and a mess and that I am just asking for trouble dating a guy like that. Anyway, I’m really shy, and I’m worried about if it will be awkward if he says no, if I even do get the courage to ask. The thing is, he has asked me before to come to his music shows, and both times he invited me I really couldn’t go because I had other stuff to do. I told him why I couldn’t go and that I wanted to, but the next show he didn’t ask. But I went to that show anyway, even though it was a little farther away and I had to get up early the next day. He didn’t really react to seeing me there, and now I don’t know what to do. I know he is still single, but I am so shy! I don’t think he will ask me out again but I don’t know how to ask him! Or even if I should. Does this sound like a bad boy to you? Will I just get my heart broken? Help!
First, while I agree to an extent with your friend—I have often said that you can’t date potential—I also think that it’s easy to miss out on potential partners by dismissing them because of how they act when they’re not in a relationship. Many people would prefer a quiet dinner at home and a beer or two every night, but not having anyone to share that with means that they choose instead to go out all the time and hang out in bars drinking because they’re lonely or bored. I am not saying that this is necessarily the case with your guy, but you should definitely consider
the possibility. It sounds like you have already decided to ignore that bit anyway. As for how to ask—just ask! This is a guy you have known for a while, which means he knows you’re shy. So, go up and say “I’ve been trying to figure out how to ask you out for months now—so how about it? Do you want to get dinner sometime?” The more you make a big deal out of this, the more difficult it’s going to be to do it. Just ask him already! I just found out that my younger brother is gay. I’m in my early 20s, and he is 19 and still living at home. I’m slightly pissed that he didn’t come out to me (I found out by accident when I came home from school and ran across his porn stash in our shared bedroom) because we have always been close and I feel like he should have felt comfortable telling me. I have always stuck up for him our whole lives. I don’t understand why he would hide it from me. Anyway, when I confronted him he didn’t try to deny it or anything, and I kind of yelled at him for hiding it from me. Then, a few days later, I saw an interaction between him and one of the neighbors that was kind of odd. It took me a little while, but I finally put two and two together and figured out that they are obviously hooking up. The thing is, this guy is married and has kids. I confronted my brother about it later, told him it was wrong and that he should find somebody his own age, etc. I told him the guy was using him and he’s going to get hurt, and think of his wife and kids, etc. He said the guy’s wife knows, that the guy is bi, and the wife doesn’t really care. The kids are too young to know anything, too, so he’s not hurting them. I still don’t like this, and I don’t know what to do. I am afraid if my parents find out that my dad will kill this guy. I don’t think my parents will care too much that my brother is gay, even though I am sure they would prefer that he wasn’t, but an affair with a married adult? That’s too much. On the other hand, my brother is a big boy and he can take care of himself, and it’s not really my parents’ business. What should I do? Big Brother There’s not a whole lot you can do, BB. As you said, your brother is an adult. And if this guy’s wife does know (I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t skeptical about that, by the way, but you don’t seem to doubt it so I’m rolling with it), and she doesn’t mind, then it’s really nobody else’s business. Open relationships can work. This is a situation you can’t protect your brother from, BB, no matter how badly you may want to. Just tell him to be careful and that he can come to you if he needs anything, and then walk away and hope for the best. And, hey, maybe you can introduce him to some gay guys his own age if he comes to visit you at school. Jyl Inov Got a question for Jyl? Submit your anonymous query via the Reality Check button at www.flagpole.com.
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classifieds
Buy It, Sell It, Rent It, Use It! Place an ad anytime at flagpole.com Indicates images available at flagpole.com 2BR/1BA & 1BR/1BA apts. Great in–town n’hood. Walk ever ywhere. Water & garbage paid. $490–$695/ mo. Check out boulevard propertymanagement.com or call (706) 548-9797.
Real Estate Apartments for Rent $575/mo. 2BR/2 private BAs. 3 min. to campus. Lg. LR, kitchen w/ DW, W/D conn., deck, lots of storage, water & garbage incl. in rent. New carpet & paint, very safe area. 145 Sandburg St. Avail. now. Owner/Agent. Call Robin, (770) 265-6509.
$460/mo. Huge 1BR apt., walk-in closet, on-site laundry facilities, 18-unit complex off N. Milledge. Avail. now or pre-lease for Aug. (706) 7646854, leaseathens.com, Lease Athens, LLC. 1BR/1BA. All elec. Nice apt. Water provided. On busline. Single pref’d. Avail. now! (706) 543-4271. 1 BR across the st. from UGA at Baldwin Village Apts. 475 Baldwin St. No pets. Avail. now. Free parking. Water and pest incl. $475/ mo. (706) 354-4261.
2BR/1BA off King Ave. Nor maltown area. In quiet, safe n’hood. W/D, Total electric, CHAC. No smoking. No pets. $575/mo. Avail. now. (706) 850-5510. 2BR apt. Dwntn., 185 B S. Finley St. W/D, DW, fridge/stove, central air, large deck. Quiet, private, cobblestone street. Small pet OK. Avail now! (706) 714-1100. 3BR/2.5BA townhomes reduced again! On Eastside. On bus route. FP. W/D incl. Spacious & convenient. Pets welcome. Avail. immediately. Now only $600/mo.! Aaron, (706) 2072957. AtlasRealEstateAdvisors. com. Available Jan. Large 1BR Dwntn. Out of bar scene, close to everything. Historic bldg. Light w/ large windows. DGH Properties. Call George, (706) 340-0987.
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Apt. in Victorian home on Hill St. 2-3BR/2BA, $850/mo. through July. Newly renovated & new appls. 4 blocks from Dwntn. CHAC. Lease/dep. req’d. (678) 794-5414. Baldwin Village, across street from UGA. Free parking, laundry on premises, hot water, on-call maint., on-site mgr. Microwave & DW. HWflrs. 1, 2, 3BRs. $475 to $1200/mo. Contact (706) 354-4261. Baldwin Village, 2BR/1BA, $700/mo. across street from UGA. Gas heat & water, central AC, laundry on premises, free on-site parking, no pets. Avail. now. (706) 354-4261. Eastside quadraplex, 2BR/2BA, $500/mo. & 2BR/1BA, $475/mo. Eastside duplex, 2BR/1BA & FP, $475/mo. 3BR/2BA & FP, $650/mo. Call McWaters Realty, (706) 353-2700 or cell, (706) 540-1529. Half off rent 1st 2 mos. when you mention this ad! 2BR/2BA apts. a few blocks from Dwntn. off North Ave. Pet friendly & no pet fee! Dep. only $150. Rent from $625-675/mo. incl. trash. (706) 548-2522, w w w. d o v e t a i l m a n a g e m e n t . com.
Commercial Property Dwntn. Athens bar for sale. Great location on Clayton St. Call Jack for details, (912) 604-8560.
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FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
Eastside offices, 1060 Gaines School Rd. Rent 750 sf. $900/ mo., 450 sf. $600/mo. (706) 5461615 or athenstownproperties. com. For Lease. Prime commercial street level space in Dwntn. Athens. 2500 sf. avail. in Jan. (706) 296-7413. Historic Leathers Building. 121 sf. office $375/mo. 675 Pulaski St. in Suite 1100. Contact Neal Anderson, (706) 224-8013. One-one-one plan: short-term leasing avail., Comer, GA! One day, one wk., one mo. Want a storefront for just one day? Expand your home business? Holding a reception? Church meetings? Indoor yard sale? 2000 sf., HVAC, 2BA, utils. incl.! snpathens@gmail.com or call (706) 248-1227. Paint artist studios-160 Tracy St. Historic Boulevard area artist community. Rent 300 sf., $150/mo. 400 sf., $200/mo. athenstownproperties.com or (706) 546-1615.
Condos for Rent 2BR/2.5BA condo in Stone Creek Condomium. HWflrs. downstairs. 2 parking places. Recently upgraded, new paint job, easy access to UGA. (706) 224-1400 or (706) 743-3111. 6 mo. or 18 mo. lease avail.- $800/ mo. Dwntn. Athens Luxury Condo – The Georgian. 1BR/1BA only 2 blocks from UGA’s N. Campus. HWflrs., granite countertops, 10 ft. ceilings, stainless steel appls. Secure bldg, parking. $199,900. (706) 540-1150.
Condos For Sale Just reduced! Investor’s Westside condo. 2BR/2BA, FP, 1500 sf., great investment, lease 12 mos. at $550/mo. Price in $40s. For more info, call McWaters Realty at (706) 353-2700 or (706) 540-1529.
TOWNHOUSES IN 5 POINTS, EAST SIDE AND WEST SIDE Call today Prices range from $ to view! 750-$1000
Hamilton & Associates 706-613-9001
Duplexes For Rent 5 Pts., 2BR/1BA duplex. $600/mo. Beautiful HWflrs., W/D, CHAC, ceiling fans, across street from Memorial Park. No dogs, cats OK. Avail now. Call (706) 2029805. Avail. now! 2BR/1BA in Normaltown near med schl. Huge LR, walk-up attic, lots of storage, hardwood & tile. $800, incl. water. W/D, DW. Free Jan. rent & $100 cash incentive. Pets OK. jdink123@gmail.com.
Houses for Rent 170 N. Church St. 2BR/1BA. 4 blocks to 40 Watt/UGA. Pets OK, no fees. Fenced yd., deck, screened porch, W/D, stove, fridge. $700/mo. Dan, (516) 5078654. 194 Childs Street, 2BR/2BA. One of the best houses and locations in Boulevard, $800/mo. 2BR/1BA, 440 Yonah. Screened-in porch, FP, W/D. Great price! $695/mo. (706) 548-9797 or boulevard propertymanagement.com. 145 Woodcrest Dr. 3BR/2BA. Avail. Feb. 1. CHAC, fenced yd., pets OK, no pet fees! Nice, quiet area. $825/mo. (706) 372-6813. 2BR/1BA apt. for rent. 125 Honeysuckle Ln. off Broad St. near King Ave. Quiet, secluded setting. Water & trash incl. No pets. $450/mo. Lease, dep., references req’d. (706) 5404752.
706-613-9001
www.athens-ga-rental.com
3BR/1BA. Great remodeled brick home. HWflrs., tiled bath, new appls., H VA C , l a u n d r y h o o k u p s , c a r p o r t . To n s o f s t o r a g e . Safe, convenient subdivision. Eastside. Pets OK! Chris, (706) 338-3345. 3BR/2BA, CHAC, HWflrs., W/D, DW, carport, close to Dwntn./ campus, spacious, $990/mo. + dep., cats OK. Avail. now, 395 Oak St., (706) 613-8525 or (315) 750-6156. 3BR/2.5BA great simple h o u s e near GA Sq. Mall. Private & peaceful, woodland creek, generous deck, spacious flr. plan, gas FP, 2–car garage. Storage plus. Pets fine. $1100/mo. (706) 7147600. 3BR/2BA remodeled house w/ bonus rm. 320 Conrad Dr., DW, W/D, refridge., 1 mi. from Dwntn. $900/mo. + dep. or $850/mo. if paid electronically by 1st. Brian, (706) 613-7242 or Brett, (678) 232-7228.
4BR/3BR brick house for lease or purchase. Double carport, finished basement, 1.5 acre private lake lot. Across from SE Clarke Park. $1200/mo. 4605 Lexington Rd. (706) 2020043. 4BR/4BA new Dwntn. Private baths, double porches, walk-in c l o s e t s , h a rd w o o d s . Wa l k everywhere! W/D & lawn maint. incl. Pre-leasing for Fall 2012. $1950/mo. Aaron, (706) 2072957. AtlasRealEstateAdvisors. com.
2BR, $750/mo. Flexible lease/ dep. Truly stellar house, must see inside. Pets OK! Fenced yd., W/D incl. Hardwoods/tile, modern/hip design. 226 Johnson Drive. Call (706) 340-5054.
4BR/2BA, Eastside. 120 Evergreen Terrace, Winterville. 10 min. from Dwntn. & UGA. HWflrs. $1K/mo. Avail. now. (706) 369-9679, cell (706) 2070935, or call Pam, (706) 5403809, lv. msg.
3BR/3BA new Dwntn. Private baths, hardwoods, walk-in closets. Walk everywhere! W/D & lawn maint. incl. Now preleasing for Fall 2012. $1500/ mo. Aaron, (706) 207-2957. AtlasRealEstateAdvisors.com.
5 Points, 366 Hampton Court. Nice 3BR/2BA. Study, large country kitchen, FP, CHAC, H W f l r s . , W / D , D W. Wa t e r, garbage & pest control incl. No pets. Lease + dep. req’d. (706) 202-2371.
3BR/2BA. New house. Jan. rent 1/2 off! 1/4 mi. to campus, near Greenway, HWflrs., W/D, D/W, HVAC, alarm, $1100/mo. (706) 202-1113.
Beautiful 3BR/2.5BA brick home in Winterville w/ appliances. WD hookup, 3.11 acres on cul de sac. $1330/ mo. + $500 dep. Trash serv. No pets. 912-312-1340.
Luxury Condos by Hamilton & Associates
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Boulevard n’hood, 3BR/2BA. HWflrs., central air, modern kitchen, big closets, laundry hookups, stunning view, Avail. now! $1200/mo. Call to see, (706) 352-9491.
DUPLEXES AVAILABLE
CLARKE & OCONEE COUNTIES
Call for Availability
Hamilton & Associates 706-613-9001
Cedar Creek: 4BR/2BA, lg. fenced yd., $950/mo. 5 Pts.: Off Baxter St., 4BR/2BA, $1200/mo. Call McWaters Realty, (706) 3532700, (706) 540-1529. Fall leasing: 1, 2, 3 & 4 BR houses & apts. 5 Pts. & Dwntn. See at http://bondrealestate. org. Owner Broker Herbert Bond Realty & Investment. Lic. #H13552. I heart Flagpole Classifieds! Modern 3BR/2BA house on 3 acres. Quiet country location just 9 mi. from Dwntn. Athens. Big kitchen, LR w/ FP. W/D hookup. $950/mo. (706) 540-8461. Short term leases avail. through July 31! 4 awesome houses! 597 Dearing St., 4BR/2BA, $1050/ mo. 2045 Robert Hardman Rd., Winterville, 5BR/2BA, $1095/ mo. 4BR on Whitehall Rd., $750/mo. 1045 Macon Hwy., 4BR/2BA, separate office, $995/ mo. Call Nancy Flowers & Co. Real Estate, (706) 546-7946, or visit nancyflowers.com for virtual tours. You will love them! Student special! Near bus line. 4BR/2BA, ample parking, fenced yd. w/ storage bldg., $800/mo. + $800 dep. Call Rose, (706) 255-0472, Prudential Blanton Properties.
Parking & Storage Parking places for rent across from UGA. $30/mo. (706) 354-4261.
Pre-Leasing Best rentals in Athens! 1–5BR houses, apts., condos. In the heart of UGA/ Dwntn./5 Pts. Avail. Aug. 1. Going fast, call today! (706) 369-2908 for more info.
Roommates 2 roommates needed. 2 story 3BR/3BA in The Woodlands, $425/mo. per renter OR $375/ each/mo. if 2 renters sign together! Gated community + amenities near UGA. Email: ashleycleary@gmail.com. Need to get rid of unnecessary clutter? Someone else wants it! Advertise your yard sale with Flagpole! No more posting neon signs! Call (706) 549-0301.
Rooms for Rent 1BR/1.5BA, kitchen, LR, full bath, W/D. CH, all utils. incl. 75 A S. Finley St. on Cobblestone street at “The Tree That Owns Itself.” (706) 714-1100. M a t u r e s t u d e n t s o n l y. Spacious, furnished BR. Quiet, near campus, kitchen, laundry privileges. Shared BA, priv. entrance, internet access. No pets. $275/mo. incl. utils. (706) 353-0227. Room for rent on Oglethorpe Ave.! Great multi-gender house w/ wood floors and high ceilings! Rent is $500/mo. + utils.! Contact Ellen w/ any questions: (904) 382-9205.
Sub-lease 1BR/1BA 10 min. from campus. Close to shopping & beautiful countryside. Looking to sublease Feb.–July. $405/mo. but willing to negotiate. (706) 207-4267.
Gettin’ outta dodge? Don’t miss the weekly goodness of a freshly cracked Flagpole full of news from back home! You can subscribe! $40 for 6 months, $70 for a yr.! Call (706) 549-9523.
For Sale Auctions Auction Jan. 14, 10 a.m. Comer Fair Grounds, Hwy. 22, Comer, GA. Mountain bikes & related accessories, camping & ski equipment Ter ms: cash or check. Piche Auction & Realty, LLC. (800) 555-5749 or visit website, www.picheauctionrealty. com. GAL 1642.
Miscellaneous Bidders Buy Auction. New & used items, collectables, & antiques. Auctions every Fri. & Sat. 1459 Hargrove Lake Rd. in Winterville. Visit www. biddersbuyauctions.com or call (706) 742-2205 for more info. G o t o A g o r a ! Aw e s o m e ! Affordable! The ultimate store! Specializing in retro everything: antiques, furniture, clothes, bikes, records & players! 260 W. Clayton St., (706) 3160130. Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records, at corner of Clayton & College downtown. (706) 3699428.
TV and Video Big screen HDTV 65 in. Mitsubishi 3-D Ready, $700. Sony 60 in. big screen HDTV, $600. Sansung 42 in. big screen HDTV, $250. Call (706) 3720535.
Music Equipment Nuçi’s Space needs your old instruments & music gear! All donations are tax-deductible. Call (706) 227-1515 or come by Nuçi’s Space, 396 Oconee St. We buy musical instruments & equipment every day! Guitars, drums, pro-sound & more. (770) 931-9190, www. musicgoroundlilburn.com. Huge, online inventory. We love trades! Come visit Music Go Round soon...
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. Visit http://www. AthensSchoolofMusic.com, (706) 543-5800. Piano Lessons in your home w/ an experienced teacher. Develop as a musician w/ fun exercises & repertoire. All ages & styles. Contact Sharmini, (706) 247-2583.
Music Services Eady Guitars, Guitar Building & Repair. Qualified repairman offering professional set ups, fret work, wiring, finishing & restorations. Exp. incl. Gibson & Benedetto Guitars. Appt. only (615) 714-9722, www. eadyguitars.com.
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) 5491567. Kitchen Table Stereo since 1 9 8 9 , e l e c t ro n i c t e c h n i c a l s e r v i c e s . Va c u u m t u b e & t r a n s i s t o r a m p l i f i e r re p a i r, effects, pedals, keyboards. Sound system sales, service & installation. (706) 355-3071. Wedding bands . Quality, professional bands. Weddings, parties. Rock, jazz, etc. Call Classic City Enter tainment. ( 7 0 6 ) 5 4 9 - 1 5 6 7 . w w w. classiccityentertainment.com. Featuring The Magictones A t h e n s ’ p re m i e re w e d d i n g & p a r t y b a n d . w w w. themagictones.com.
Services Cleaning New Years Resolution: “If someone cleans my house, I’m good to go for another 3 months!” Professional, reliable, pet & budget friendly. Text/call Nick: (706) 851-9087. Email: Nick@ goodworld.biz. Local references on request.
Health Pregnant? Considering a d o p t i o n ? Ta l k w / c a r i n g agency specializing in matching birthmothers w/ families nationwide. Living expenses paid. Call 24/7. Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions, (866) 413-6293 (AAN CAN).
Misc. Services Job searching? Join the AthensGACareerCoach.com jobseeker group! $20/mo. Meetings each Wed. at 6 p.m. Call Sean at (706) 363-0539 or email sean@ athensgacareercoach.com.
Pets Boulevard Animal Hospital Januar y Special: $15 off routine spays and neuters! 298 Prince Ave. www.downtown athensvet.com (706) 4255099.
Tutors S t re s s e d a b o u t y o u r G R E , ACT, or SAT? Let Meridian Tu t o r s help you decrease that stress while increasing your score! Local, in-person tutoring w/ flexible scheduling. References a l w a y s p r o v i d e d ! w w w. MeridianTutors.com/Tutoring, (608) 217-0498.
Jobs Full-time Call center representative. Join established Athens company calling CEOs & CFOs of major corporations generating sales leads for tech companies. $9/hr. BOS Staffing, www.bostemps.com, (706) 353-3030. Front desk help. Should be flex. for all 3 shifts. Comfort Suites, 255 North Ave. Apply in person, bring re s u m e . 8 : 3 0 – 9 a . m . , M - F. Mr. Singh.
Large landscape firm in Athens, GA seeking motivated individual who has experience in sales/cost estimation within the commercial landscape industr y. We offer a fun & enjoyable work environment w/ competitive pay. Please fax resume to (706) 543-8988 or email to sgillen@bellsouth.net. Sophisticated salon off M i l l e d g e Av e . l o o k i n g f o r established booth rental & massage therapist. Please s e n d re s u m e t o s h a n n o n . salon.spa@gmail.com or call (706) 354-0104.
Opportunities Disclaimer! Flagpole does its best to scout out scams but we cannot guarantee. Be careful giving out personal information. Call to report scams, (706) 5490301. High School diploma! Graduate in just 4 wks. Free brochures. Call now. (800) 532-6546. Ext. 97. Go to www. continentalacademy.com (AAN CAN). Help wanted. Earn extra income assembling CD cases from home. No experience n e c e s s a r y. C a l l o u r l i v e operators now. (800) 405-7619 ext. 2450 www.easyworkjobs. com (AAN CAN). Mystery shoppers earn up to $100/day. Undercover shoppers needed to judge retail & dining establishments. No exp. req’d. (888) 729-6151. Paid in adv.! Make $1K/wk. mailing brochures from home! Guar. income! Free supplies! No exp. req’d. Start immediately! www.homemailerprogram.net (AAN CAN).
Part-time $10-12/hr. housecleaning PT. Paid training, no experience n e c e s s a r y. M - F s c h e d u l e . Friendly team environment. Must be avail. 8am-5pm & have valid driver’s license. Call (706) 425-8545 9am-3pm or email info@dispatchcleaners. com. Now hiring discreet private lingerie models. Flexible schedules, no exp. needed, good working environment, upscale clientele. Unlimited earning potential. Call for info, (706) 613-8986.
Vehicles Autos 1976 Camaro, gunmetal grey, beautiful head-turner, unique custom interior & rims. $11,111.11. New Edelbrock engine. Runs great. Call (828) 421-7466.
Misc. Vehicles Cash for cars: any car/truck. Running or not! Top $ paid. We c o m e t o y o u ! C a l l f o r instant offer, (888) 420-3808, w w w. c a s h 4 c a r. c o m ( A A N CAN).
Notices Pets Lost and found pets can be adver tised in Flagpole classifieds. Call (706) 5490301 or visit www.flagpole. com/Classifieds to return them home.
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43 Corn serving 44 Sandwich cookie 45 Celeb magazine 46 Full of fervor 48 Cheer starter 49 Calendar abbr. 50 Take away by force 51 Woodwind instrument 53 Yearning 54 Cause of plane turbulence 56 Sidewinder, e.g. 57 Trust, with "on" 58 Type of surgeon 59 Badger's cousin 60 Use a towel 61 Like venison's flavor 62 Eliot or Frost
9 Bankroll 10 It may be standing 11 Dependent 12 Proclaim 14 Peephole's place 17 Type of tea 19 School transport 22 Pale as a ghost 23 Stereo system 25 Cave sound 26 Right-hand page 27 Hawk's home 30 Make yawn 31 Pita sandwich 33 Auditioner's goal 34 Escape slowly 35 Like some winds 36 Jump Jet 37 Ward worker 40 New York area 41 Skirt opening 42 Restraining rope 44 Mindful of DOWN 45 Bakery buy 1 Sugar pill, say 2 Sincere 47 Catch sight of 48 With intensity 3 Outer border 4 Ang or Spike 51 Gumbo veggie 5 Rural swimming 52 Balancing bar 53 2007 film, "____ spot 6 Catcher's base the Wild" 55 Gear tooth 7 Foul smell 56 Drench 8 Teacher's fave
Crossword puzzle answers are available at www.flagpole.com
JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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Coalitions Against Coal
Athens Activists Say Energy Solutions Not Beyond Reach
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16 million gallons of water from the Oconee River each day. In initiative. According to the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, ast Nov. 29 at the downtown Athens theater and event investigations into these corruption charges are likely to space Ciné, the University of Georgia chapter of the Sierra a state rattled by increasingly serious water woes and stricken by drought, the effects on water resources of coal power plants increasingly expose an unsavory rationale behind these coal Student Coalition (SSC) turned out around 85 concerned power proposals, further justifying the argument the Alliance community members for a film and panel discussion about only add to concerns about contributions to climate change and detriments to public and environmental health. has been making since 2009: that “Plant Washington is inextrithe hidden costs of coal-based energy production. The organizAt the 10th anniversary event for the more-than-180-memcably compromised by mismanagement at Cobb EMC.” ers were enthusiastic about the energy and excitement of the ber Georgia Water Coalition in November, Plant Washington was crowd attending the year-end event aimed at building more a focus of the organization’s “Dirty Dozen” report on the worst community support for a Beyond Coal campaign initiated in hile this coalition of EMCs is moving forward with offenses against Georgia’s waters. The coalition report stressed September. Plant Washington and a similar plant in nearby Ben both the harmful effects of mercury emissions on public health At the event, which highlighted public health, ecologiHill County, “… all the other utilities see the writing and the increased stresses that the plant would mean for the cal and climate change costs of coal energy production, what on the wall,” says Gunning. “It’s just Power4Georgians who already ailing Oconee River. Indeed, the proposed plant has put believe that somehow building multibillion-dollar plants on stood out most starkly was an intensely motivated, organized the Oconee front and center in a report recently authored by and mobilized group of students with a clear-eyed goal in the backs of rate payers will be economically feasible.” And the Union of Concerned Scientists. The report documents the sight. As Rich Rusk, an organizer with the Georgia Climate the catch is that, if the member-owned EMCs go into the busimanner in which power plants drive water-supply stress, and Change Coalition, explained, “It’s great what these young ness of speculative energy production and “fail” because the lists the Upper Oconee as one of several key watersheds across people are doing, and we’ve got to emulate them.” plant is not economically feasible, they will simply pass the the nation that “warrants closer scrutiny to assess and miniOver the past few months, the SSC has garnered considerlosses on to their rate payers. For the speculators, building a mize the risk of future energy-water collisions.” able support from students and faculty in a campaign pushing plant that might not be needed could still be a cash cow, even the university to retire the 46-yearif it will mean huge environmental old coal boiler in its steam plant. and public health costs along with This push is part of a nationwide higher rates for EMC members. effort to encourage college camDavid Tennant, recently elected puses to be leaders in innovation to the Cobb EMC board on a platand to set examples for their wider form of greater transparency and communities on the need to move the need to stop the corruption, beyond coal. tends to agree that the recent shift Responding to the mounting to speculative energy production pressure on campus, UGA’s vice is cause for concern. Originally, president of finance, Tim Burgess, EMCs were set up to get electricity rather defensively attempted to out to rural areas, but now many of them, like the Cobb utility, pri“set the record straight” in a Nov. marily serve suburban customers. 2 Red and Black op-ed explaining Tennant sees a need for caution at the budgetary issues limiting the Cobb EMC in moving ahead with university’s options for ceasing the Plant Washington and Plant Ben Hill combustion of coal in the heart because “traditionally, EMC business of Athens. Subsequently, in a Nov. is to buy power and distribute it, 17 meeting with Burgess, Beyond not to produce it. Developing proCoal organizers requested that the duction facilities as an EMC would administration commit to retiring be a fundamental change in their the coal boiler, and to creating a core business.” task force that would ensure that Ironically, given EMCs’ tradicommunity concerns are considered tional role of providing rural access and that all alternatives to coal are to power, the Power4Georgians diligently investigated. initiative has created a situation in “By retiring the coal boiler, UGA The UGA chapter of the Sierra Student Coalition helped with the enthusiastic turnout for the Georgia C3’s rally calling for reduced carbon which the considerable environmenhas an opportunity to set an examemissions in September. tal and public health costs of coal ple not only for the state, but also energy production, not to mention for the southeast region and across Advocates of the plant argue that this is a question of balthe greater stresses to water resources, would be distributed the country,” says Ali Blumenstock, campus coordinator for the out to rural areas like Sandersville on the basis of decisions SSC. Since kicking off the Beyond Coal campaign again on cam- ancing demand for energy, environmental concerns and costs for rate payers. But the Georgia Water Coalition and Sierra Club made in Metro Atlanta. pus last semester, the cause has received “immense support believe that the plant is unnecessary. Because its true costs to Tennant, who has years of international experience in from students and faculty, including over 2,000 student signathe environment and public health are making coal power less energy production, understands this. “I’m on the board, so I’ve tures on a petition and over 80 faculty endorsements backing economically tenable, most utilities are looking to alternatives. got to look after the members’ interests,” he explains, “and a the push to retire the coal boiler,” she says. The Sierra Club cites an integrated resource plan that suggests total change in the business model toward investment in power “Pollution doesn’t stop at the arch,” says Blumenstock, and Georgia Power—a division of Southern Company, the leading production is not something they need to rush into.” That said, the student-led negotiation with the administration needs the energy producer in the region—expects to take 2000 megaTennant also notes that it would be “prudent to wait to get the support and attention of the wider ACC community. watts of coal power production offline by 2015, in part through rest of the board seated before they make any major decisions hile the movement grows here in Athens to shut down the decertification of two coal-fired units at Plant Branch in on proposed power plants.” the university’s old coal plant, Georgia is perhaps the Milledgeville. place in the country—more than anywhere else— ccording to Gunning, “Institutions of higher education So, if Plant Washington doesn’t seem to make economic or that people are fighting against the construction of new coal should be exemplars of 21st-century energy solutions.” environmental sense for Georgians, who has been behind it plants. One of the panellists at the November Ciné event, Sarah and why? The driving force behind the proposed plant has been If the energy at last November’s Beyond Coal event—and Block, a Georgia fellow of the Southern Energy Network, made others, like the Moving Planet rally put on here by the Georgia the Power4Geogians consortium of EMCs (electric memberClimate Change Coalition in September—is any indication, the connection between coal on campus and the wider fight ship corporations or cooperatives—non-profit, member-owned Athens and student activists in the youth climate movement against coal going on across the state. For Block, Georgia is power distribution companies), previously led by its largest a “frontline community,” facing the addition of three proare likely to have increasingly important roles in untangling member, Cobb EMC. Following major corruption scandals beginposed coal-fired plants to the 12 already operating across the ning in 2007, Cobb EMC has recently elected four new members the mess of corruption and coal plants that situate Georgia at state. As a member of the youth climate movement building the front lines of the struggle for climate justice. The question to its board, and six more board seats will be filled in two remains as to whether the University of Georgia will be inspired a network to fight and win environmental struggles in the elections early this year. This turn of events means that Plant Southeast, Block highlighted the proposed construction near by these student leaders, or if it will resist this opportunity to Washington’s future is hotly contested. follow their lead at a critical juncture of the future of coal proSandersville, GA of the 850-megawatt Plant Washington, which, According to Seth Gunning of the Georgia Chapter of the she stated, “if built, will be outdated on arrival… terribly inef- Sierra Club, “it’s the same corruption plaguing Cobb EMC that duction in Georgia. Certainly, a commitment by the administraficient and highly polluting.” tion to moving UGA and Athens beyond burning coal would be has been pushing for these coal plants.” The indicted former Plant Washington is fairly well along in its permitting phase, CEO of Cobb EMC, Dwight Brown, is at the heart of a scandal an important step away from dirty energy and greater stresses but not yet under construction. A proliferating body of coalion water in a state that can ill afford them. involving charges of financial malfeasance, racketeering, theft tions and alliances across the state has adamantly opposed the and intimidation. Brown and his longstanding associate Dean $2.1 billion speculative project, which would draw as much as Richard Milligan Alford have been central to creating the Power4Georgians
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FLAGPOLE.COM ∙ JANUARY 11, 2012
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everyday people Lee Roberts, Veterinary Library Assistant Lee Roberts had worked as in artist in New York City for seven years when he decided to quit. He had earned a BFA, exhibited work in galleries, and won a prestigious artist residency, but he decided to put those things aside in order to pursue a line of work in which he could help people on a fundamental level. Now he is studying to become a nurse practitioner at UGA while working at the Veterinary Medicine Reading Room, familiarly known as the Vet Library. While Lee still makes art regularly—he carries his sketchbook with him— he no longer considers himself an artist by occupation.
Emily Patrick
Flagpole: Why did you decide to study art? Lee Roberts: Well, my grandmother and I painted together when I was a kid starting around age four—as far back as I can remember. She was self-taught and very talented—in some ways, more talented than I will ever be. But we would take stuff from National Geographic—some of them were, like, ads for parakeets—and we would cut them out, and she would draw them out for me. Basically, she made the art entirely, but I felt like I made it because she mixed the color for me and guided my hand while I applied it. So, I have these savantlooking drawings and paintings that are dated from 1984. My friends are like, “Did you actually?” And I’m like, “No…” When she passed away— you know how kids get weird stuff in their head—I was like, “OK, I’m going to become an artist for her,” which seems really strange when I look back at that. Then, I kind of gave up on regular school, and all I did was draw and paint… One thing leads to another. My family had always wanted me to be a doctor. FP: You said you moved to New York from Atlanta in 2005 to work as an artist. How did that come about? LR: I went to school in Baltimore, and then I lived in Connecticut for awhile. It was a huge wash because Connecticut is crazy expensive, and I couldn’t get any sort of reasonable job because I was fresh out of undergrad and I had a BFA. It’s like, “What are you going to do with that?” So, I moved back to Georgia, and I lived in Atlanta for a little while, and it was actually really fun. I lived there and had a dinky job and painted all the time. Then, I started applying for grad schools and things like that, and I got into this ritzy artist residency. No one’s ever heard of it, but it’s kind of a big deal. That was in Maine, so I went up and I did that. FP: So, that was the type of program that supports you while you work there? LR: More or less, yeah. Usually you pay something to be there because if you didn’t, they couldn’t keep it afloat, but I definitely didn’t pay what it cost. I mean, I eat like a horse. Just to feed me—I don’t think I even paid for the amount of money that it would take to feed me for that time. It was like three months. I think I paid $700 for the whole thing, and they house you, feed you, and they have visiting artists come through the studio and tell you, “Do this. Don’t do that.” FP: Was it a productive experience for you? LR: You know, I actually got divorced while I was there, so not particularly… I was married for three years. While I was there, events transpired—I’ll leave it at that. I ended up getting divorced while I was there, so I was slightly distracted… After that, I moved to New York.
FP: What was the move from New York to Athens like for you? LR: I actually would say the thing I found most shocking was that people think of New Yorkers as quite liberal. Maybe it’s just the people I hung around with, but I consider Athens the most liberal place I have ever lived—like, makes the liberals I knew in New York look like staunch Republicans by comparison, so that’s been really surprising.
www.georgiatheatre.com
215 North Lumpkin St. • Athens, GA
18 & over / ID reqd. Tickets available online and at Georgia Theatre Box Office
SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 BACK TO SCHOOL PARTY WITH
EDDIE AND THE PUBLIC SPEAKERS
FP: Do you have an example of what you mean? LR: I don’t know. I’m trying to think. It’s like: if you thought there were only x number of colors in the rainbow, and then you found out that the rainbow was much wider than you thought it was. The people in New York, they kind of—just because of the pressure of living there—they all move slightly toward the middle… Here, you find people exploring much more of a dramatic, wide range of political beliefs.
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
JOHAN GRECO AND BEAR LEFT
DOORS 8:00pm • SHOW 9:00pm
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18
FP: Do you find that frightening? LR: Sometimes, yeah. It was a little disconcerting at first. Things that I considered experimental—beyond the pale—were beliefs that people had. FP: You’re studying to become a nurse practitioner. Why change career goals? LR: Art is great, but there’s kind of this selfcentered component to it that I was kind of happy to let go of. When my mom got sick, and she really needed help, and my step-dad passed away because he took horrendous care of himself, I kind of realized: there’s a lot of people who need help. Art is cool, but there’s a lot of people who need more basic stuff than cultural enrichment. FP: Do you consider yourself a former artist, or are you still an artist? LR: I guess kind of how I define it for myself is: I’ll always make art, but I don’t really have any huge need for anyone to see it… But yeah, I do consider myself a former artist. I do think that making art—and this sounds kind of like a bad analogy—it’s a little bit like a drug addiction. If you let yourself really go back into it, it will take your life over. I think that’s kind of why, when people ask me, I’ll jokingly say I’m a recovered artist, because it’s actually a little bit true. I try to have fun with it, but I try not to give it too much time. Like, when people offer, “Oh, we can show your work”—because I still have contacts in New York, and every now and again, they’ll contact me—I always say no, because it would be so easy to let it flow right back… I don’t think you have to stop making it; I just think you have to stop thinking of it as a career. FP: Will you tell me about what you at the Vet Library? LR: Basically, the vet students work really hard, and we’re there to make sure it’s always open, and if they need copies of articles, we copy them and email them to [the students]… You shelve books, but the Vet Library is a little weird in that people check out the same seven books over and over again. It’s like people are cycling through studying the same things, so everyone’s studying parasites, or everyone’s studying equine lameness. It’s kind of interesting because I don’t really understand it, but I do know that at any given time, there’s one book—it’s not always the same book—that everyone’s trying to check out at the same time… We do do shelving, but there’s seven books, and I know where they go. Occasionally, someone checks out the weird book on iguanas, and I’m like, “Whoa! New book!”
zOSO
DOORS 8:00pm • SHOW 9:00pm
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19
MiMOSA LUNICE WITH
DOORS 8:00pm • SHOW 9:00pm
FRIDAY, JANUARY 20
THE INTERNS WITH THE
WOODFANGS, HOLY LIARS AND NEW MADRID DOORS 8:00pm • SHOW 9:00pm
SATURDAY, JANUARY 21 UGA HEROES
BULLDAWG BRAWL DOORS 11:30am • SHOW 12:00pm
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25
COLT FORD WITH HER AND KINGS COUNTY
DOORS 8:00pm • SHOW 9:00pm
COMING SOON 1/26 1/27 1/28 1/30 2/2 2/3 2/4
EMANCIPATOR / LITTLE PEOPLE YACHT ROCK REVUE PACKWAY HANDLE BAND TYCHO CAROLINA CHOCOLATE DROPS IVAN NEVILLE’S DUMPSTAPHUNK zOOGMA and POLISH AMBASSADOR
2/9 2/10 2/11 2/13 2/17 2/18
SISTER HAzEL ABBEY ROAD LIVE! MEDESKI, MARTIN & WOOD TOM GREEN OF MONTREAL JOHN JARRARD FOUNDATION BENEFIT 2/24 SAM BUSH
Emily Patrick
JANUARY 11, 2012 · FLAGPOLE.COM
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D R A O B E L F F U H S • POOL TABLES E L O H N R O C • L L A B S O DARTS • FO 260 EAST WASHINGTON STREET • DOWNTOWN • 706-369-3040 • TOP OF JACKSON ST. • 12 STEPS FROM THE CORNER
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