Summer Construction Affects Music SceneBy Matthew Toledo - 8/29/2000
Each summer, with the bulk of the student populous away from town, Athens undergoes a mini construction boom. This years' construction projects have had a direct impact on the local music scene.
The Greenery has been bought by the owners of The Swindlefish and Mama Einstein's. The old Greenery will become the new Swindlefish, though it is doubtful that this transition will be completed in time for the student's return.
The new upstairs will contain a large stage complete with dressing rooms for the band. The new venue will hold larger name acts. Bar managers have stated on the AMN bulletin board that the new "fish" will no longer host an open stage.
|
A large extension to an existing house on Palmer street has reduced the large backyard used to hold the Palmerfest festival by 1/3. It's still large enough to hold thousands of people, but the question is, how long before other landlords follow suit and expand their rental properties to meet Ohio University's growing student housing needs.
|
The Athens City Parking Garage underwent a face lift during the summer which forced the Athens Music Community Festival off of the garage roof and indoors. The event was hosted by four bars simultaneously. An armband purchased at one of the bars allowed patrons to mingle freely between all the venues. It was a clever solution to a logistical problem that may have actually helped raise more money for the Athens Visiting Nurses Association. Over $2,000 was collected.
|
Lastly, Phase 2 of the Court Street beautification project will be underway during Halloween. Phase 2 will tear up most of Union Street and it is unknown what affect this will have on the placement of the Halloween stage which is usually places on an angle on the corner of Union and Court Street.
