CityBeat | April 17, 2024

Hub OTR Owner Tells CityBeat What’s Next After Closure Announcement

Lindsey Swadner told CityBeat there are multiple reasons she chose to close The Hub, but plans to move the bar into the old St. John church changed once a neighborhood mainstay closed at the end of 2023.

BY MADELINE FENING

There will soon be a hole in the heart of Over-the-Rhine’s Main Street with the closure of community-minded bar The Hub OTR.

The Hub’s owner Lindsey Swadner, known for her brash call-outs of politicians and neighborhood developers, announced The Hub would no longer move to a nearby location as previously announced.

“I know this will come as a shock for some- but we’re not moving next door,” Swadner said in an April 2 Instagram post announcing the closure. “At some point I came to terms that I am genuinely unhappy here.”

A change of plans

Swadner announced plans to move The Hub from 1209 Main St. to 1215 Main St. sometime this year. The new location, which was previously occupied by St. John 3:16 Baptist Church, was purchased by Swadner because it could accommodate more concertgoers for The Hub’s often sold-out shows. After news of The Hub’s closure broke,

Redditors called out Swadner for previously raising money for improvements to The Hub’s original home, which she hoped to buy from the business’s landlords.

“We’re not gonna talk about the crowdfunding campaign they ran a while back to ‘save the Hub,’ allowing them to buy the neighboring building? I get that things can change, but it’s pretty fucked that they just took the money and ran,” one Redditor commented.

But Swadner told CityBeat the $4,700 she raised went towards much-needed floor repairs at 1209 Main St., and had nothing to do with her purchasing the old St. John church later that same year.

“We had severe water damage. We had a lot of problems in that space,” she said. “People do this all the time.” Swadner told CityBeat there are multiple reasons she chose to close The Hub, but plans to move the bar into the old St. John church changed once a neighborhood mainstay closed at the end of 2023.

“The moment that they decided to

kick out Urban Eden was a moment I decided to leave, and I will say that fully with my whole heart,” she said. “Julie Fay been around longer than 3CDC has been on the street or been in this area.”

CityBeat reached out to Fay who said Urban Eden was not pushed out by 3CDC, but did say it’s “hard to run a business” on Main Street, especially in the age of online shopping.

“There’s not enough foot traffic,” Fay said. “One of the things that we’re trying to do is fill some of the storefronts, and that’s been going on for a long time.”

Joe Rudemiller, vice president of marketing and communications for 3CDC, told CityBeat that Urban Eden was never a 3CDC tenant and the developer never owned the building.

What’s next?

As for who will fill the space The Hub was planning to occupy, Swadner said she will be putting the space on the market soon and selecting a buyer who believes in Main Street.

“I’m not just selling it to anybody,”

she said. “I really don’t care what anyone does with it, as long as it’s somebody who wants to like actually be a part of the community.”

As for Swadner, she said she’s moving “across the country” to settle into a new community, while taking some of her Hub family members with her.

“I’ve always been very lucky to have friends who just happen to also work with me as coworkers,” she said. “Once we started talking about leaving, my staff essentially was just like, ‘And I’m coming with you. And we’re moving together.’”

In the meantime, Swadner is preparing a lineup of shows and events to give The Hub a proper send-off, including drag shows, live music and an “everything-must-go” yard sale of The Hub’s bar collection, including “haunted objects” and pieces from the bar’s iconic taxidermy collection.

And the ghost who Swadner said famously haunts The Hub?

“I hope he comes with me,” she said.

The Hub’s last day of business will be April 30.

The Hub in Over-the-Rhine PHOTO: SEAN M. PETERS

Some Cincinnati Residents Could Get Help Paying Overdue Property Taxes

BY MADELINE FENING

Amid rising property taxes in Hamilton County, Cincinnati City Council is considering allocating $1 million to help low-income property owners pay delinquent property taxes.

The motion was presented by Mayor Aftab Pureval and Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney during an April 1 Budget and Finance Committee meeting. The motion passed and will advance to a final vote at council’s regular meeting on April 3.

To be eligible, homeowners must live in the property and make 80% or less of the area median income. Homes with up to four units would be eligible if the property is owner-occupied.

“This is for a residents’ primary residence only. It’s not for investment properties,” said Kearney.

Kearney noted that Cincinnati residents are behind on property taxes by about $3.2 million. The neighborhoods with the most homeowners behind on property taxes include Westwood, West Price Hill and Avondale.

City administrators are working to develop a streamlined 10-day process for residents to apply for and access the funds.

Many Hamilton County homeowners felt sticker shock after seeing how much their property taxes have gone up in 2024 — some as much as tripling.

Council’s motion comes after Hamilton County commissioners approved the reallocation of $701,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to provide payment assistance to eligible homeowners in February. The Hamilton County Mortgage, Property Tax and Utility Program now has $1.4 million to help cover up to six months of past-due mortgage, property taxes and utilities for owner-occupied properties.

Homeowners can apply for relief from the county at 513relief.org. If you experience internet or computer issues, you can contact United Way Care Navigators by calling 211.

Federal Grant Seeks to Reconnect Hamilton County Communities Divided by Lockland Split

BY MADELINE FENING

The First Suburbs Consortium of Southwest Ohio (FSC-SWO) and the Hamilton County Transportation Improvement District (TID) have secured a significant boost in their efforts to tackle transportation barriers within the region.

According to a press release from the county, a $300,000 Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation will provide funding to conduct a planning study in six Hamilton County municipalities:

• Arlington Heights

• Evendale

• Lincoln Heights

• Lockland

• Reading

• Sharonville

The study will focus on transportation challenges posed by the “Lockland Split” along I-75 and freight rail lines across central Hamilton County.

Historically, investment in transportation infrastructure in the U.S. has fractured neighborhoods,

especially communities of color. As part of Cincinnati’s 1948 “Master Plan,” city leaders leveled more than 2,800 homes, businesses, churches and other buildings in the lower West End neighborhood. The “slum clearance” effort was part of a federal “urban renewal” initiative meant to make room for the expansion of I-75 and the Queensgate industrial neighborhood. Residents had no choice but to pack up and leave behind their homes, effectively eliminating a large swath of the predominantly Black West End neighborhood.

Commission President Alicia Reece said the goal of the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant is to foster a more connected and inclusive Hamilton County while revitalizing local economies.

“The stark barriers of highways and train tracks create both a physical disconnect and can contribute to a loss of economic productivity in our communities,” Reece said.

Commissioners Denise Driehaus

and Stephanie Summerow Dumas echoed Reece’s sentiments, emphasizing the grant’s potential impact on neighborhood reunification and enhanced connectivity.

“With the receipt of this grant, our planning study will help guide us towards reunifying neighborhoods,” said Summerow Dumas. “I look forward to see the creative solutions put forth by the partners to ensure better connectivity.”

“I am grateful for the impact this project will have on these communities and Hamilton County as a whole,” added Driehaus.

What’s next?

The county says the First Suburbs Consortium of Southwest Ohio and the Hamilton County Transportation Improvement District will work with local communities to identify solutions to overcome transportation challenges “by developing a strategy for targeted infrastructure investment in the region.”

Highways in America have a history of dividing communities along racial lines.

PHOTO: PIXABAY, PEXELS

ADVICE COLUMN

What’s On Your Mind, Cincinnati?

Mike Madanat, the founder of Authentic Life Counseling, will be answering your burning questions in the “What’s On Your Mind, Cincinnati?” advice column each month.

As we prepare to welcome our first child into the world, my partner and I find ourselves facing a dilemma that we hope you can offer some insight into. With the arrival of our little one on the horizon, we’re navigating the complexities of establishing healthy boundaries with our parents, who are eagerly anticipating their roles as new grandparents.

The transition into parenthood has already brought about significant shifts in our family dynamics, and we’re discovering that setting boundaries is more crucial than ever. While we value the support and guidance of our parents, we encounter challenges when their opinions and suggestions clash with our parenting preferences. For instance, my mother has expressed reservations about our decision to co-sleep with our baby, despite it being a source of comfort and sanity for us.

We recognize that our parents’ intentions are rooted in love and concern for our child’s well-being. However, we’re struggling to assert our own parenting styles and decisions without causing friction or hurt feelings. How can we navigate these conversations with grace and empathy, while still honoring our values and priorities as new parents?

Additionally, we’re mindful of the need to prioritize our relationship as a couple amidst the excitement and chaos of welcoming a newborn. How can we ensure that our partnership remains strong and supportive, even as we navigate disagreements with our extended family members?

Any advice or strategies you can offer would be greatly appreciated. We’re eager to create a nurturing environment for our growing family, and we believe that establishing clear boundaries with our parents is a crucial step in achieving that goal.

Anonymous

Navigating the complexities of establishing healthy boundaries with grandparents as new parents is a journey filled with profound shifts and occasional turbulence. As you and your partner step into parenthood, you’re not just welcoming a new addition to your family; you’re also redefining your relationships with your own parents, who are transitioning into the role of grandparents.

The arrival of a baby often amplifies existing family dynamics, and differing opinions on parenting styles can add an additional layer of stress. You may find yourselves grappling with the need to assert your autonomy as parents while also navigating the expectations and advice of well-meaning grandparents. It’s a delicate balancing act that requires clear communication and a firm commitment to prioritizing the well-being of your new family unit.

It’s important to acknowledge that no parenting journey is perfect. Mistakes will inevitably happen, but they are part of the learning process for both parents and grandparents alike. Embrace the opportunity to forge your own path as parents, guided by your values, instincts, and the unique needs of your family. Remember, it’s not your responsibility to make others, including family members, comfortable with your parenting decisions. Trust yourselves to do what’s best for your child and your family.

Setting boundaries that support your new family dynamic is essential, albeit challenging. It involves asserting your

right to make decisions about parenting styles and choices while also respecting the wisdom and experience of the grandparents. These conversations may be uncomfortable at times, but they are a necessary part of the maturation process in parenthood. Remember, it’s okay to politely decline certain opinions or guidance that do not align with your values or preferences as parents.

When engaging with extended family members, strive to build bridges of understanding and empathy whenever possible. Listen for the underlying concerns beneath their suggestions, and seek common ground based on your shared goal of ensuring the well-being of your baby. By approaching these interactions with compassion and openness, you can foster stronger connections with grandparents while still maintaining your boundaries as parents.

Things to consider:

Unhealthy boundaries can look like:

• Allowing grandparents to override parenting decisions without discussion or consent.

• Feeling obligated to comply with grandparents’ demands or expectations, even if they conflict with your own parenting values.

• Feeling guilt-tripped or manipulated into following grandparents’ advice or opinions.

• Allowing grandparents to undermine your authority as parents in front of your children.

Healthy boundaries can look like:

• Communicating openly and assertively about parenting decisions and expectations.

• Setting clear boundaries regarding visits, childcare arrangements, and involvement in parenting decisions.

• Respecting each other’s autonomy and decision-making authority as parents.

• Addressing conflicts or disagreements calmly and respectfully, focusing on finding mutually agreeable solutions.

Tips for establishing healthy boundaries:

• Schedule a time to have a candid conversation with grandparents about your expectations and boundaries as new parents.

• Use “I” statements to express your feelings and needs without placing blame or criticism. This can look like, “I’m excited for you to be involved in our baby’s life, but I also need space to figure things out as new parents.”

• Be consistent and firm in enforcing boundaries, while also remaining open to compromise and flexibility when appropriate.

As you navigate these discussions, it’s essential to prioritize your partnership with your partner. Make supporting each other a higher priority than seeking approval from extended family members. Your relationship is the cornerstone of your new family, and by placing it at the center of importance, you’ll strengthen your bond as co-parents and weather any challenges that come your way.

Ultimately, navigating the complexities of setting boundaries with grandparents requires patience, resilience and a willingness to adapt to the evolving dynamics of your family. Give each other permission to prioritize your own needs and values as you embark on this new chapter of parenthood. Trust in your ability to parent in the way that feels most authentic and true to your family’s values, and remember that you’re not alone on this journey. Wishing you strength, resilience and moments of joy as you navigate this transformative time in your lives.

Each month, CityBeat will be publishing a question (or two) answered by Mike in our print issues and online. These questions can be related to personal relationships, your professional life, mental health issues or anything else you feel could use Mike’s guidance. Your identity will not be disclosed. Submit your burning questions now via email to advice@citybeat.com.

CityBeat advice columnist Mike Madanat at Alms Park

PHOTO: AIDAN MAHONEY

How’s It Growing?

As Ohioans begin to cultivate their first legal marijuana plants, lawmakers have yet to cough up a cannabis program we can all agree on

BY MADELINE FENING

Mark Szabo’s son calls him the Walter White of the family.

“He’s completely aware that it’s not something for kids,” Szabo tells CityBeat. “I’ve told him straight up, like, once you’re 18, you know this is going to be something you can try if you want to? But it’s also something you don’t have to try, it’s completely up to you.”

No, Szabo is not talking about meth. He’s talking about growing marijuana, cannabis, weed, pot — whatever term your brain (and soul) gravitates towards when talking about the naturallyoccuring green plant that’s eased our pain and gotten us high for a dozen millennia. With the help of some fancy equipment and a lot of patience, Szabos’s growing his first marijuana plant in his house in Mt. Lookout. While he keeps his plant tucked away from plain view, he’s not hiding anything — Ohioans voted to lift the prohibition of marijuana in November in the form of Issue 2, giving Szabo the right to legally grow up to 12 marijuana plants in his family’s home.

“I’ve got a beautiful healthy plant in the grow tent in my basement that is flourishing and doing really well,” he says.

Szabo’s first seed was planted once the new adult-use marijuana law went into effect in December, meaning his plant will be ready for harvest just in time for 4/20, but those without a green thumb will have to wait to legally join in on the fun. Lawmakers in the Ohio Statehouse have yet to finalize the new adult-use recreational marijuana law that voters overwhelmingly passed in November, meaning dispensaries won’t be selling recreational cannabis anytime soon.

While the powers that be figure out how and when to open the flowering floodgates on legal weed, cultivation

season is underway for those navigating their first legal home-grow journey. Growing a greener thumb

Funny enough, Szabo isn’t really much of a weed smoker.

“I consume a product maybe once or twice a year,” he says. “It’s interesting to really be more of a mad scientist.”

In the rare event he and his wife would purchase marijuana, the old school route of coordinating with a dealer was their only option.

“My wife and I have been purchasing marijuana on the black market for many, many years,” Szabo says. “We realized soon after the issue passed that it didn’t mean we would be able to go to any place and simply buy it on the open market. And the only real clear legal path for us to procure it outside of the black market was to grow it in our house.”

Szabo’s never really had great luck with keeping indoor plants alive, saying the typical house plant “goes south fast” in his house from underwatering. He knew he needed to approach his first cannabis plant differently.

“I knew if I had a special project like this I’d stick with it,” he says. “It’s sort of like brewing beer, you’ve gotta have the right equipment to do it. It’s not like it’s really, really hard to grow a weed in the right kind of conditions — they say ‘grows like a weed’ for a reason.”

You won’t find the typical domestic botanist aesthetic in a home-grow setup like Szabo’s — he’s spent about $300

on equipment that makes his one and only weed plant look like it’s training to work in outer space, encased in a grow tent with lights and a fan. There’s even a filtration system that helps to keep the skunky marijuana odor at bay.

“Unless you don’t mind your whole house smelling like pot, you really do have to have some sort of a filtration system, which is just a blower with an activated carbon filter,” Szabo says. “That’s not to say it’s a terrible odor. When I opened up the tent right now, it’s kind of a pleasant odor. But I think when we get to the flowering stage, that’s when it’s gonna start to really stink the place up.”

Growing one plant will yield more than enough marijuana flower for Szabo and his wife, but they’re legally allowed to grow up to six plants each with a cap on 12 plants per household, according to Issue 2 language approved by voters.

“Who’s got a room for that?” he jokes.

For those who want to take on that challenge, the final say on how many marijuana plants they could legally grow is hazy. That’s because the legislature has been working to finalize the rules about the state’s new adult-use cannabis program, even though voters have already made it clear what they want in a weed-legal Ohio.

Writing the rule book

It all started when the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol successfully brought Issue 2, a proposal to legalize adult-use marijuana sales, to the November 2023 ballot through a statewide signature collection campaign. Issue 2 passed with 57% of voters in support of legalizing and regulating the cultivation, manufacturing, testing and sale of marijuana to Ohioans 21 and up.

The law passed by voters also legalized home grow for Ohioans 21 and up with a limit of six plants per person and 12 plants per residence. Under the initiative, adults are allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and

up to 15 grams of marijuana concentrates, which is a more densely potent cannabis product extracted from the marijuana plant.

Issue 2 imposed a 10% tax at the point of sale for dispensary transactions. Those tax dollars have been a major point of contention within the Ohio Statehouse after Issue 2’s passage. Under the law passed by voters, tax revenue from the recreational program would be allotted as follows:

• 36% to the host community cannabis fund

• 36% to the cannabis social equity and jobs fund

• 12.5% of the substance abuse and addiction fund would go into Ohio’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline fund to administer the 988 system

• 10% of the substance abuse and addiction fund would provide mental health and addiction services in county jails

• 3% to the operations of the Division of Marijuana Control and Department of Taxation

• 2.5% to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to develop the state’s mental health workforce

House Bill 86

But once Issue 2 passed, some Ohio Senate Republicans proposed a radically different allocation of tax revenue in the form of edits to House Bill 86, which was originally written to revise the state’s liquor control laws. House Bill 86 would limit home grow from 12 plants per household to six, up the tax rate from 10% to 15%, lower maximum THC limits on cannabis products and change how the tax revenue is distributed:

• 28% to the county jail construction fund

• 19% to the Department of Public Safety law enforcement training fund, or 16% if the marijuana expungement fund has ceased to exist

Mark Szabo set up his home grow system in his Mt. Lookout basement when Ohioans were first given the green light to legally grow marijuana at home.

• 14% to the Attorney General law enforcement training fund

• 11% to the substance abuse, treatment, and prevention fund, or 9% if the marijuana expungement fund has ceased to exist

• 9% to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline fund

• 5% to the marijuana receipts drug law enforcement fund

• 5% to the marijuana expungement fund

• 5% to the safe driver training fund

• 4% to the Ohio Investigative Unit Operations fund

• 3% to the Division of Marijuana Control Operations fund

• 2% to the marijuana poison control fund

Senate President Matt Huffman and Gov. Mike DeWine urged passage of HB 86, saying passing the bill quickly would limit the black market, but the Ohio House is unlikely to approve the bill, according to Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens.

“Getting a consensus on what that action will be in the House is probably not going to happen,” Stephens, a Lawrence County Republican, told reporters at the Ohio Statehouse on April 2. “I think there’s been a lot of discussion and talk within the House, within the Republican (House) caucus, frankly. And getting those (talks) to where we have a consensus of saying, ‘this is what needs to be different than what the people passed’ — there’s just not that consensus right now.”

Lawmakers initially predicted that recreational sales wouldn’t start until late summer or fall, but state rep. Jamie Callender (R-Concord) told WEWS reporter Morgan Trau that legal sales could be coming as early as mid-June. “We could have retailers, recreational licensed retailers, in Ohio by mid-June,” Callender told Trau. “We should begin to see legal recreational sales of marijuana in Ohio certainly before July 4th weekend.”

The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) wasn’t even supposed to start processing retailer applications until June, per Issue 2’s language, but Callender tells Trau that DCC has been working quickly, and that the Joint Committee On Agency Rule Review (JCARR) plans to accept proposed regulations from the DCC, further speeding up the process.

“There’s a lot of other issues around the marijuana market and industry that may need to be looked at, but this will give the governor and the Senate the immediacy that they were looking for,” Callender told Trau.

Common Sense Initiative

The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control has put forth their own proposed changes to the program, known as the “Common Sense Initiative,” but the

voters who passed Issue 2 may like the sound of these additions.

On April 3, the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control submitted a 45-page rules package that would make shopping for your weed a lot easier, allowing for dispensary drive-through windows, self-serve kiosks and curbside pickup; customers just need to show their ID. The area surrounding the drive-through or curbside pickup area must also be video-monitored.

The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control’s rules would also allow Ohioans to make a late-night weed run by expanding the hours of operation for dispensaries. Currently, dispensaries can only sell between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. within the confines of their four walls, but the proposed rules would allow businesses to remain open until 11 p.m.

The Common Sense Initiative also outlines specifics on waste disposal, suggesting the state require all adultuse license holders destroy all “excess, unwanted, outdated, deteriorated, adulterated, or misbranded cannabis under video surveillance and in a manner as to render the cannabis unusable and non-retrievable.”

Dispensaries would have to grind up unwanted cannabis products with other types of waste — specifically 51% noncannabis waste — which could include paper, cardboard, compostable oils and grease, food, garden waste and/or compost activators. Thorough records on the waste destruction, including video proof, must be maintained at all times. The agency’s proposed rules would

also tighten distance requirements between dispensaries and “prohibited facilities” like schools, churches, libraries, parks, etc. The rule for medical dispensaries now is to keep their property lines at least 500 feet away from a prohibited facility’s property lines, but the new rules would change where that 500 feet starts. Instead, it would require the distance be measured by the “shortest distance” between the dispensary’s physical structure and the property line of the prohibited facility.

The rules package — which will be reviewed by Lt. Gov. Jon Husted’s office and lawmakers — sets a Sept. 7 deadline to issue provisional adultuse cannabis licenses to dispensaries, cultivators, processors and testing laboratories. This means that everyday Ohioans could start buying recreational cannabis sometime in September or October, depending on how long it takes dispensaries to roll out their recreational programs.

Dispensaries wait for the green light

While those in power determine the specifics behind Ohio’s new adult-use law, dispensaries tell CityBeat they are fully prepared to make the switch from medical to a med-rec program.

“We’ve begun the process of planning, not knowing exactly what the date is, but making sure that everything from the flow of our stores to having the right kind of staff to making sure we will have inventory in stock to be able to accommodate all those consumers,” said Jason

Labs.

Cresco Labs says it is one of the nation’s largest multi-state marijuana operations, also known as MSOs.

Though they are multi-state, federal law requires Cresco Labs to grow, cultivate and sell their cannabis products within state lines. They sell their cannabis products grown in Ohio to various dispensaries across the state, but consumers are more likely to know the Cresco Labs company through its retail arm of the brand, known as the Sunnyside dispensaries.

“We have 71 [Sunnyside] stores right now across the country. We have five in Ohio, and with the new adult use legislation, we’ll get three more,” Erkes says.

The weed grown in Cresco’s Yellow Springs cultivation site goes straight to Sunnyside dispensary in Oakley at 5149 Kennedy Ave. Cresco’s been at the forefront of medical cannabis cultivation and sales in the state so far.

“Our Sunnyside in Wintersville was the first sale, the first medical cannabis sale in the state of Ohio,” Erkes says. “Our facility in Yellow Springs was the first facility to actually break ground and get up and running.”

Despite Cresco’s plan to expand by riding Ohio’s recreational market wave, Erkes tells CityBeat the emphasis will always be on medical patients.

“If there is a supply shortage in the state, medical consumers will obviously get first priority on being able to get access to their medicine,” he said. “I love the way this product impacts and changes people’s lives, and it’s significant.”

The question of a shortage seems inevitable. After all, recreational customers and medical customers will be going to the same dispensaries across the state to access their weed. But it won’t just be Ohioans buying their cannabis products, especially in the Tri-State.

“You’re gonna see a fair amount of folks from Kentucky and Indiana coming over to buy cannabis,” said Jason Vedadi, CEO of Story Cannabis, a Maryland-based MSO. “Downtown Cincinnati will be kind of a target — Kentucky folks and Indiana folks probably don’t have any real line of sight to recreational use anytime soon.”

Story Cannabis says it’s on the medium side of typical multi-state operations, priding itself on providing a small-town atmosphere to its 17 total locations. In Ohio, Story Cannabis has one location in Coshocton, a small town an hour and half northeast of Columbus, and two side-by-side locations in Cincinnati’s Oakley neighborhood near Rookwood Commons. Story I and II, while side-by-side, are licensed by separate LLCs.

Like Sunnyside, Story says it thinks of

Erkes, chief communications officer for Cresco

Dr. James Weeks of One Heart Medical expects the state’s medical marijuana program will see an uptick in patients, particularly from the baby boomer generation.

PHOTO: AIDAN MAHONEY

the medical customer first.

“We continue to offer certain things for medical patients that recreational patients don’t get,” Vedadi says. “But I do anticipate that there’ll be some convenience factors that don’t exist, just in the sheer nature that the market is gonna go from $600 million to $2 billion in sales over some period of time. But you definitely try to stay sensitive, especially those people with more serious ailments to make sure that they’re taken care of.”

Unlike Sunnyside, Story does not grow its own weed in the state — they depend on cultivators and wholesalers who have a leg up on pricing. He says prices may go up in the months after adult-use goes live, but he’s telling medical customers that pop won’t last long.

“When demand goes up, I think people are more concerned that the price is gonna skyrocket,” Vedadi says. “[Wholesalers] control pricing, we don’t control pricing, but the market normalizes. [...] It really is a commodity when you think about it, like it’s no different than wheat or anything else. So usually you see a spike in pricing at first, and then over the course of time, it stabilizes.”

Erkes from Sunnyside said, even with a slight spike in pricing from demand, medical customers will pay less for their products in the form of a tax break. They’ll also get easier, faster access to products while the droves of out-of-state recreational customers wait in their own lines.

“There will be a significant tax break still to have a medical card, and you still will get that priority over everyone else,” Erkes says. “We certainly prioritize medical patients, as is the foundation of who we are, and many of our stores will have a medical line and an adult use line and the medical patients essentially have a VIP pass to get through.”

Medical marijuana’s evolving presence

Separate lines, dwindling supply — these are the fears that some medical cannabis patients have mentioned to Dr. James Weeks, who runs One Heart Medical, a doctor’s office that exclusively assesses and recommends patients for the state’s medical cannabis program. Of the thousands of patients he’s seen since opening his Delta Avenue office in Cincinnati’s Columbia Tusculum neighborhood, he’s had hundreds of questions about how Issue 2 will impact dispensary lines for medical marijuana customers.

“Whenever it became clear that [57%] of Ohioans wanted cannabis legalization, people started firing up questions,” Weeks tells CityBeat. “That’s what everyone’s concerned about. It’s a real concern that I’ve heard like a broken record since the November election.”

While Ohioans won’t need a doctor to legally access weed anymore, that doesn’t mean some won’t still go the medical

route to get their cannabis products — even in a recreational-friendly state. Weeks said he has every reason to believe he’ll start to see more medical marijuana patients after Issue 2 passes, not less.

“It’s a shame that people say this, but they’ll say, ‘Hey, Dr. Weeks, I see adult recreational is legalized. What are you going to do? Like, you’re out of business, right?’ It’s like, yeah, well, there’s still gonna be a medical program. And not only that, but I suspect, and it’s just a hypothesis, our volume will go up,” Weeks says.

Beyond the obvious perks of a 10% tax break and potentially faster lines, Weeks says it’s the shifting demographics of medical patients and weed smokers in general that appears to be spelling out a longer future for the medical program.

“We’ve reached a point where demographics have shifted to where the average age was late 40s, to now average age is late 50s. We’re shifting into this older population,” Weeks says. “It’s a valuable population. Most folks report benefits with minimal side effects.”

Weeks recalls a patient who he says reflects a common trend among baby boomers — a woman who never smoked weed once in her life, but found comfort in the state approving adult-use before she pursued the medical program in her 70s.

“She declared right off the bat, ‘Are there a lot of different ways to take this?’ And I said, ‘Oh, yeah.’ And she goes, ‘You don’t just have to smoke it?’ And I said, ‘Oh, no.’ And she’s like, ‘Okay, good, because I didn’t really want to smoke it.’ I asked her, you know, somebody who lived through the ’60s and ’70s, you never smoked it? She’s like, ‘No,’” Weeks says. “We see that a lot. Because there is this group of a lot of people that have never tried this before, they’re very reluctant and having someone that has an internal med background, that their doctor referred them in our direction, they’re going to buy into it more.”

Weeks went into recommending medical cannabis full-time after more than a decade spent working in hospitals during the opioid epidemic. Now he insists on seeing patients in person to help them not only weigh their options for pain management, but demystify and destigmatize cannabis altogether.

“Probably half of what I do is provide reassurance. I just reassure that it’s safe, it’s not going to make you pass out, it’s not going to cause cancer, or whatever the question is. You don’t have to be high, you don’t have to feel loopy, it’s not a gateway drug, you’re not going to crave it and become tolerant and need triple in three months,” Weeks says. “The stigma is reducing because people are now recognizing, hey, it’s legal, Ohioans voted for this, maybe it’s my turn to try it.”

ARTS & CULTURE

Lost Weekend and Lost Love

May Pang tells CityBeat the story behind her new photography exhibit in Greater Cincinnati that explores her unique relationship with John Lennon.

BY BRENT STROUD

May Pang, former assistantturned-lover of music legend, Beatle and artist John Lennon, spoke with CityBeat about her life, career and their time together ahead of her appearance at Mason’s Gallery 42 for her exhibit, The Lost Weekend: The Photography of May Pang, held on April 30 and May 1. May Pang’s name is well known in John Lennon history, but not many know the whole story behind their connection. Pang became a recognizable character in Lennon’s life when she transitioned from assistant to companion and romantic partner in a period that saw Lennon enjoying one of the most fun and productive periods in his life and career.

This period came to be known as “The Lost Weekend,” which actually

lasted 18 months from the summer of 1973 through the beginning of 1975 — and Pang was there for all of it. The upcoming photo exhibit, The Lost Weekend: The Photography of May Pang, gives some insight into their world and time spent together.

The period stretches across a pivotal time in Lennon’s life and career — the recording and release of Mind Games, Walls and Bridges and Rock ‘N’ Roll; the release of Harry Nilsson’s Pussy Cats, produced by Lennon; the dissolution of The Beatles; the reintroduction of Paul McCartney into his life and reconnecting with his son, Julian Lennon. Pang was present and often an active participant during these events, photographing all of it.

The exhibit is a complement to The Lost Weekend: A Love Story, the

emotional and telling documentary released late last year on streaming platforms after being named a 2022 Tribeca Film Festival Official Selection. The film details her early life and her time with Lennon during one of the most eventful and historic eras of his life and, in turn, hers as well.

Pang is a New Yorker and her poise and good-natured charm immediately come through with her slight and at times charmingly thick New York accent. She still lives in the city and our talk took place shortly after the unnerving earthquake felt in New York that morning that she recalls with the familiarity of an old friend.

She is lively at times as she recalls memories with a laugh, such as the time she got lost on a walk on Lennon and Ono’s large Tittenhurst Park estate

while working as an assistant to the couple. She also recalls with excitement an old notebook she recently found that depicts the level of events at the time. “Reminder to tell John and Yoko that they’re having dinner tonight and they’re sitting at the Secretary General’s table, U Thant,” she reads from one entry. (Thant was SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations at the time).

She also speaks with a tone of seriousness on occasion, such as when she talks about deciding to tell her story with the new documentary, recalling her time as his partner after their history was sometimes diminished, in a way, or when people try to lay claim to Lennon connections of the era she knows aren’t completely true.

“Then when I saw how my storyline

A photo in May Pang’s exhibit, entitled “California Grass, Palm Springs, CA 1974“

PHOTO: MAY PANG

was being told you know, I said, ‘Wait a minute, I got to take back my narrative here. This is not the way it happened,’” Pang tells CityBeat.

Pang found her way into the music world through her rare upbringing. She says she felt “ostracized, in a way” being the first in her family born outside of China, “You’re not from there, you’re different. So, I found music.” Also, the family didn’t live in Chinatown like many other Chinese immigrant families, but in Harlem — then Spanish Harlem. “So, there were my roots” she tells CityBeat as she recalls music in the streets on hot summer days and on TV.

“At the time, there’s American Bandstand and you just said, ‘ah,’” she says, still swooning and with an almost invisible exclamation mark. “Music just sort of soothed my soul — it just fed all that went on and it just took me away. It’s like that Carole King song ‘Up On the Roof’ — ‘all your cares go away.’”

In 1970, at age 19, Pang got a job doing clerical work for ABKCO Records, who handled the Apple Records catalog along with The Rolling Stones, the Cameo-Parkway label and much more. Pang says the company moved into new offices and had varying open spots that she was able to fill, gaining experience in different jobs along the way.

By 1971, she worked exclusively for Lennon and Ono, where she helped organize their lives, among other things, between press, work and visits from famous friends like Bob Dylan and George Harrison. She was present for much of their work, such as the making of the iconic video for “Imagine,” with Lennon at the piano in the open white room of Tittenhurst. Pang says, “I remember that day.”

In 1973, at 22, she was approached by Ono to become Lennon’s partner when the couple began having problems.

“I looked at her like, ‘I’m not interested.’” They had been her bosses for the last couple of years, after all. “I knew every aspect of their daily lives, what it was like. I liked going home and just relaxing.” She says the only reason she changed her mind was that Lennon, who was also apprehensive at first, began to pursue her. She resisted still, for a time, before the two fell for each other.

The photos in the exhibit depict their interior life together at this time at home, as a couple on vacations at Disneyland with Julian, out and about with Nilsson and others, or at work in studios or behind the scenes on nowiconic photo shoots.

Lennon continued working and Pang continued working with him but adds, “I was not paid during the time I was living with John. I was with John as a boyfriend/girlfriend situation, not as people would think, as a paid

“I just happened to be facing the door and Paul and Linda walked in and it was like, ‘Oh my god, Paul and Linda.’ I had this look on my face and John heard me say it and he just turned around and he looked at him and he goes, ‘Hello, hey Paul.’ It was like as if they had just seen each other and it wasn’t in years. It was quite interesting.”

employee or whatever else.”

Lennon was productive, despite initial hard partying with friends like Nilsson, Ringo Starr and Keith Moon, but Pang helped keep things on track.

“He would say, ‘Hey, listen I want to go into the studio, I want to record,’” she tells CityBeat of her role in his work. “I would say, ‘Where do you want to do it? Who do you want to do it with? What musicians do you want?’ And I would do all the prep work and then make sure that everybody got the sheets that they needed for songs, the equipment that John wanted, what musicians that he really wanted to make what songs and, of course, (for) the overdubs, what horn players or what string players and all sorts of things and if one wasn’t available, I had to find another.”

She also added to tracks in more directly recognizable ways like singing backup on the now Christmas classic, “Happy Xmas (War is Over),” and with a memorable, breathy whispered ‘John’ on Lennon’s “#9 Dream” from Walls and Bridges. Pang is credited as production coordinator on Walls and Bridges and later as “Production Co-ordinator

and Mother Superior” on Rock ‘N’ Roll

Featured in the exhibit, Pang also took one of the last photos of Lennon and McCartney together (there’s another from the same day in Beatles roadie and lifelong friend, Mal Evans’ book, Living the Beatles Legend: The Untold Story of Mal Evans with Linda McCartney, Nilsson and Pang also pictured).

She recalls how the photo came to be in 1974 when Lennon and McCartney reconciled after years of silence since The Beatles’ breakup with a random visit to the studio from Paul and Linda McCartney at the end of a session. “I just happened to be facing the door and Paul and Linda walked in and it was like, ‘Oh my god, Paul and Linda.’ I had this look on my face and John heard me say it and he just turned around and he looked at him and he goes, ‘Hello, hey Paul.’ It was like as if they had just seen each other and it wasn’t in years. It was quite interesting.”

She also participated in what would be the last time the two would play music together after the session. The impromptu jam, that Pang calls a “good

icebreaker” also included Stevie Wonder on keyboards with Pang and Evans playing tambourines.

After Pang and Lennon got an apartment in New York, the McCartneys were their first visitors and Pang says they visited “many times” whenever they were in the city. They were also potentially one of the last visitors just before Lennon would eventually go back to Ono in early 1975.

Pang continued work in the music business after her time with Lennon, working behind the scenes at Island Records, ABC Radio and eventually in publishing for United Artists. She would marry another music legend, producer Tony Visconti, and have two children before a divorce in 2000.

Pang says she’s enjoying getting out to different parts of the country for the exhibitions. “You know, you get New York and L.A., but middle America, I wanna see.” She also mentions the fun of talking with people at the galleries.

“I was taking these photos for me and John, just so we could look and see if anything was interesting,” Pang says. “(I) didn’t think 50 years later it was going to be sitting on the wall. I’m glad I can give a different side of John that no one’s seen because these are not posed; they’re very candid home shots. So they can actually see what John was like and not what they read in the papers.”

Gallery 42 in Mason will host The Lost Weekend: The Photography of May Pang on April 30 from noon-8 p.m. and May 1 from noon-7 p.m. Pang will be in attendance. More info: artenclave.com/collections/gallery-42.

May Pang with her photographs at the exhibit, The Lost Weekend: The Photography of May Pang

PHOTO: SCOTT SEGELBAUM

ICULTURE

Gosh! Napoleon Dynamite Live! Offers Behind-the-Scenes Experience of the Cult Film

BY GARIN PIRNIA

n June 2004, Paramount and Fox Searchlight released the Sundance darling Napoleon Dynamite in theaters. Jared Hess directed it — based on his short Peluca — and co-wrote it with his wife, Jerusha. With a low budget of $400,000, it grossed more than $46 million and established itself not only as an indie success, but also as an endlessly quotable and hilarious film featuring a llama, tater tots, chapstick, a time machine, online dating, ligers and an epic dance sequence. It remains one of the most authentic depictions of teen life on film, compared to Mean Girls, which also came out in the summer of 2004. In the past 20 years, the reverence for the film has only grown, to the point that Napoleon (Jon Heder), Pedro (Efren Ramirez) and Uncle Rico (Jon Gries) have taken the movie on the road.

According to Ramirez, the event started off with the actors speaking at colleges and then doing a Q&A. “But as time went on, it grew into something else,” Ramirez told CityBeat. “And that’s what was spectacular about it. Because we not only realized there had been so many fans, not only who dressed up as the characters, but who really, really enjoyed the film itself. So we thought, ‘Well, why don’t we make it more interactive?’”

The show involves a screening of the film, a Q&A and shenanigans like Heder riding a bike, Gries playing guitar, Ramirez DJing, a tether ball re-enactment, the time machine, trivia questions and pulling costumed fans on stage. “Even after an hour of a show, fans want more and we’re like, ‘We’re going to have to go home,’” Ramirez said. On April 20, Napoleon Dynamite Live! will hit MegaCorp Pavilion in Newport, with Heder and Ramirez in attendance. (White Lotus star Gries will not be there due to filming obligations.)

Before Ramirez signed on to play class presidential candidate Pedro Sánchez (Vote for Pedro!), he was up for a role in the Billy Bob Thornton big-budget studio film The Alamo (no one remembers it); he turned it down to star in a little indie movie filmed in Prescott, Idaho, and it changed the trajectory of his life. “The rule is everything does happen for a reason,” he said. “Is it destiny? That I wouldn’t know. I do face things that scare me. It was a lead role. It was a character role, and I knew I was taking chances that who knows what would happen at that moment in my life? When I chose Napoleon Dynamite, maybe it was serendipitous. I asked my dad, ‘What do I do?’ My father told me, ‘Follow your heart.’ I’m like, really?

Because Napoleon said to Pedro, ‘Follow your heart, Pedro.’ I think maybe perhaps the stars aligned and I made that choice.”

Like the rest of the cast and crew, he spent the summer of 2003 filming in Idaho’s sweltering heat. “When you’re working on an independent film, all you got is each other,” he said. “When we’re working in Prescott, Idaho, where nothing really happens, you go, OK. So it was luck of the draw and it was a trust of the work, and I am utterly grateful for these past 20 years of my life.”

The imprint of Napoleon enabled him to meet actors like Jack Nicholson, Steve Buscemi, and Daniel Day-Lewis. “Throughout the decades, I’ve been really lucky to be able to have not only some great teachers, but people who shared with me their lives and their work structure and how they go about things in life that has helped me really pick and choose the direction I want to go,” he said.

Pedro, Napoleon, Uncle Rico, Deb, Grandma and Kip are the gifts that keep on giving. Ramirez said Pedro leads with “hope in search of friendship,” and Kip has “some of the sweetest lines.” Fans see themselves in these misfits, which is one reason why the film has endured. It also has a happy ending in which the

characters get what they want.

“Everybody can relate to every single character in the film,” Ramirez said. “We understand Uncle Rico’s pain of wishing to go back to ‘82. We understand Napoleon’s isolation of feeling ostracized by the definition of who he is. We grasp the fear of Pedro of maybe failing or not feeling like he’s enough. We think about Tina Majorino’s character, Deb, who is just going, well, I’m trying to make the best of it, but Napoleon’s being such a jerk. So we love these characters because we honor each and every one of them and feel what they’re going through.”

At the shows, he appreciates fans showing up dressed like Rex Kwon Do and sharing their personal stories with him. Over the years, Heder and Ramirez have stayed in touch, even appearing as their characters in a Burger King commercial and providing voices for 2012’s six-episode Napoleon Dynamite animated series. Both Heder and Ramirez have identical twins and a lifelong bond. “Jon Heder and Jon Gries, these two guys are my brothers,” he said. “We kind of pull each other’s hairs every once in a while and get on each other’s cases. But that’s what brothers do. I love these guys.”

Twenty years later, it’s evident

Napoleon influenced other indies like Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, Sideways and (500) Days of Summer. “Napoleon Dynamite has been influenced by just the idea of independent films being a possibility,” he said.

Ramirez continues to act, DJ and he published the book Direct Your Own Life: How to Be a Star in Any Field You Choose! Heder went on to star in comedies like Blades of Glory, and will provide a voice for Hess’ upcoming Netflix animated show Thelma the Unicorn This year, Hess and Jerusha received an Oscar nomination for directing the animated short film Ninety-Five Senses Napoleon Dynamite might not be the deepest film — though Kip’s and LaFawnda’s love is pretty deep — but it reflects life and how life needs to be lived. “I think life can be very dark and art is something that we all need,” Ramirez said. “Art makes us appreciate life itself. I don’t know if it’s art that imitates life or life imitating art, but it’s about humanity and how we really need each other to survive. Live good. Live honest. Live true. Those are the key factors to the secrets of life.”

Napoleon Dynamite Live! comes to MegaCorp Pavilion on April 20 at 7 p.m. More info: promowestlive.com.

Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez

PHOTO: PROVIDED BY NAPOLEON DYNAMITE LIVE!

CULTURE

Cincinnati Fringe Festival Announces 2024 Primary Lineup

BY KATIE GRIFFITH

The Cincinnati Fringe Festival is returning to Over-the-Rhine in May with a lineup that will showcase local, national and international talent. The performing arts festival will celebrate its 21st year in typical fashion: a collection of wacky, thoughtful, experimental, profound and comical stories that can only be seen together in the Queen City.

The Fringe, presented by Know Theatre, announced the 2024 primary lineup Tuesday. It includes 26 productions: new work from 12 local creators, 12 productions from across the country and two artists from Toronto, Canada. The entire lineup of events and performances boasts more than 25 productions including four Fringe Development projects, five special events and “Kids Fringe.”

This year, the 14-day Fringe lineup shares a theme of community care and radical self-expression. The shows run from May 31-June 15 at its home, Know Theatre, and select venues in OTR. The diverse lineup includes “choose your own adventure” performances, a medieval romp, dance numbers, miracle stories, tales of aging, dark comedy monologues, true stories, stories about genderbased issues, resurrections, history, the afterlife, the mundane, the extraordinary and so much more.

The 2024 Cincinnati Fringe will comprise 12 world premieres, 12 regional premieres, one national premiere and 21 producing companies never seen in Cincinnati. According to a press release by the Know Theatre, 50% of box office revenue goes to producing Fringe artists. Single and package tickets are on sale now.

The 2024 Cincinnati Fringe Festival

Primary Lineup:

1-MAN NO-SHOW

Isaac Kessler Toronto, Ontario, Canada

A Migration of Crones

Performance Gallery

Cincinnati, OH

A Perfect Day Away

Dead Cat Productions

Cleveland, OH, Athens, OH & Chicago, IL

As If You Will Remember

Gerry Grubbs, Pauletta Hansel, Rachel DesRochers, Katie Chal, Rob Keenan, Adam Petersen, & Michael Burnham Cincinnati, OH

Bloody Mary

Kelly Collette Cincinnati, OH

BODIES

Can’t Stand Sitting Productions Toronto, Ontario, Canada

CANCEL THIS MUSICAL

Wesley Zurick New York, NY

CASTAWAYS

Silver Linings Productions Cincinnati, OH

Cyrano on the Moon

Arcane Arts Hayward, WI

This year’s Cincinnati Fringe Festival will feature 26 productions across multiple venues, including Know Theatre. PHOTO: HAILEY BOLLINGER

Eleanor’s Story: An American Girl In Hitler’s Germany

Ingrid Garner

Los Angeles, CA

Esther Made Me Do It

Nell Adkins and Elizabeth Sacktor

Lexington, KY

Gender? F*ck!

Rachel Baker Cincinnati, OH

I’m Finally Going to Ask Elizabeth Hopkins to the Homecoming Dance and Nothing’s Going to Stop Me, Not Even the Ghost of My Dead Grandmother Who Watches Me Masturbate

Queen City Flash

Cincinnati, OH

Knight, Knight

Madeleine Rowe

Minneapolis, MN

Le Spectacle De Merde (“Welcome to our Sh*t Show”)

Megan Flynn & Teresa VanDenend Sorge

Troy, NY & Cincinnati, OH

Meet Me at the Bathtub: The Short Life & Tumultuous Times of Charlotte Corday

Samantha Joy Luhn

Covington, KY

Mounting Washington: The Story of a Mountain & a Miracle

Penny: For Your Thoughts

Rochester, NY Pamela L Paek Los Angeles, CA

NO PASSENGERS

Gideon Productions Queens, NY

SeaMAN

2 Sleepy RatGuys (Amica Hunter & Bruce Ryan Costella)

Portland, OR, & Orlando, FL

Singing Into The Dark, 1933

Big Empty Barn Productions

New Orleans, LA

Songs Without Words (or, The Mendelssohn Play)

Jennifer Vosters

Chicago, IL

Strong Bear

Jack Fogle

Cincinnati, OH

The F-Files

Solasta Theatre Lab Cincinnati, OH

The Last Witch in Ireland: The Story of Bridget Cleary

InBocca Performance Cincinnati, OH

Waiting for Laura

Ben & Justin Present Cincinnati & Columbus, OH

The 2024 Cincy Fringe Festival Special Events:

Absurd It Through the Grapevine: Paul Strickland

Paul Strickland Presents

Covington, KY

Alphas: Origin Story - A Comedy Variety Show

Alphas Comedy Cincinnati, OH

Methtacular!

Steven Strafford Athens, OH

Choice

Julie Coppens Cincinnati, OH

trueFRINGE 2024

True Theatre Cincinnati, OH

The 2024 Cincy Fringe Development Productions (one-night-only productions of works in development):

Cracks

Claire Lochmueller Chicago, IL

Ford’s Escape (or a Honda’s Civic Lesson)

Zamudio Theatre & The Milford High School Drama Dept.

Milford, OH

Tea Sips and Tells

Leila Kubesch Cincinnati, OH

Webcam

Kirk Sheppard Cincinnati, OH

Kids Fringe:

The Emu that Ate Cincinnati (and Other Curious Tales)

Autumn Kaleidoscope Cincinnati, OH

The Cincinnati Fringe Festival presented by Know Theatre will run from May 31-June 15. For more information and ticketing, visit cincyfringe.com.

FOOD & DRINK

DeathDefying Cool

Hamilton’s newest bar, Immortal Vibes, offers sophisticated cocktails and a unique vintage guitar experience.

REVIEW BY LOGAN TURNER

If you’ve visited Hamilton recently, you might’ve noticed the ever-changing downtown area. It’s clear that the city has experienced a renaissance of sorts. New restaurants, attractions and bars are frequently popping up along the main drags of High and Main Street. One of Hamilton’s most recent additions is Immortal Vibes, a bar and vintage guitar experience.

As someone who frequents the downtown area, I’ve seen the ebbs and flows of what Hamilton has gone through. I’ve already noted multiple local staples that have sadly had to vacate from the main drag. When new places open, I try to stay cautiously optimistic as it’s clear it’s getting more difficult to set yourself apart in this market. Sure, anyone can open a bar with remedial success in the area, but what will make them a true fixture in Hamilton? Fortunately, Immortal Vibes manages to set itself apart with both good drinks and a great time that isn’t offered by anyone else around.

Immortal Vibes opened on Dec. 1, 2023, at 230 Main St. The rustic front can be found between Chubby Bunny Bakery and the yet-to-open The 513 Bar. Immortal offers coffee and cocktails, so expect them to be open for service most of the day. The bar also serves local baked goods.

Along with grabbing some drinks at the bar, customers are also welcome to come in and experience the collection of vintage guitars that line the wall at Immortal Vibes. The collection comes courtesy of owner Carter Moore and his business partner. Like a time machine through rock and roll, each guitar gives a glimpse into past music. Each axe is dated from a different era. The collection even showcases guitars from some of the greats like Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain. Customers can test and even buy these gems if interested.

Being able to plug and play some of these things right off the wall gives you the feeling of stepping into the shoes of some of rock and roll’s greats.

Moore is no stranger to new business ventures. Moore also owns Immortal Canvas, a tattoo shop in the Liberty Fairfield area just off Route 4. His family also owns Chubby Bunny Bakery and Immortal Fitness, which are on the same street as their newly opened bar.

“The original idea spawned from a shop I used to visit when I would do a guest spot in Massachusetts,” Moore told CityBeat. “I’m a tattoo artist by trade, so I would go out there and visit, and next door, there was a luthier [a maker of stringed instruments]. I would stop in and visit the luthier, and it was a really cool place. Then I went back out there the following year and the guy had installed a bar. I was like, that’s genius.”

Moore also mentioned that the concept behind Immortal Vibes brings together his three favorite things: Bourbon, coffee and guitars. He also touched on what it means to him to be such a significant aspect of Hamilton’s revitalization efforts.

“I grew up in Hamilton when it was in its heyday. There were department stores on every corner. Everyone worked downtown; my grandmother worked downtown. I got to see that. Unfortunately, I also watched Hamilton struggle when the businesses moved out and crime went up. Now I’m really excited watching it come back up.”

Despite this being Moore’s first time opening a bar, the feel of Immortal Vibes sure doesn’t feel that way. Moore has been able to curate an atmosphere that’s welcoming yet sophisticated. The feeling suggests an aura of class with a rockstar edge. The brass and brick finishes with the vintage guitars lining the wall create a unique environment that stands out in

a somewhat oversaturated market. The music selection also adds significantly to the atmosphere.

The drink selection also adds to the bar’s theme. They offer a wide variety of cocktails, some named after famous musicians like the Freddie Mercury or Eddie Van Halen. The menu also includes coffee-infused cocktails. This decision may seem like a neat niche thing, but bringing the bar and coffee side together makes a lot of sense. It makes the overall drink selection feel more cohesive. It also helps Immortal Vibes stand out by offering unconventional cocktails that other local Hamilton establishments do not provide.

It seemed appropriate to start with the coffee. The espresso pull was pleasant and balanced; nothing overly bitter, and the creme was beautiful. Immortal Vibes is a great way to start the day if you’re looking for simple, well-done coffee.

Now, how does the coffee work with the cocktails? The Cookie Dough Martini infused espresso, Disaronno, Kahlua, vanilla and bits of cookie dough. It truly is a treat for both coffee drinkers and non-coffee drinkers. The sweetness was surprising but not overpowering. It also balanced the cookie dough’s rich flavors with the vanilla’s floral taste. This drink could be recommended for those looking to have a good time who may not love the taste of alcohol, as it’s beyond subtle in this drink. This martini should come with a warning, as consuming multiple would be easy.

Aside from the coffee drinks, the most captivating thing on the menu is the musician drinks. The Jimi Hendrix sits alongside other cocktails like the Freddie Mercury and Carlos Santana. The rum mixture in the Jimi Hendrix is a refreshing experience that delightfully combines pineapple and grenadine. This might be

one of the more unique drinks you could try. Somehow, the flavors come together to create a sweet and creamy mixture. It was like a Creme Saver in drink form. How a drink could be complex yet simple in execution is beyond me.

Aside from the multitude of complex drink options, Immortal Vibes also offers more traditional fare. The Blood Orange Baze is one of two house old fashioneds the bar advertises. As a staple of any watering hole, executing this essential well is imperative. Fortunately, Immortal doesn’t disappoint. The Blood Orange Baze offers a simple twist on the classic cocktail with notes of hardy citrus playing nicely with the bourbon. It’s an old fashion that can stand against any in the Cincinnati area.

The cocktails are the highlight of Immortal Vibes, but the service is a close second. The two bartenders were considerate and personable, adding to the welcoming feeling. A bar is only as good as its bartenders, and, luckily, Moore hired the right people for his establishment.

Overall, Immortal Vibes is a significant plus for Hamilton and the Cincinnati area. Its upscale feel, blended with its edge, creates something other bars don’t have: A true rockstar feel with a hint of sophistication. Immortal has something for everyone. The drinks are delicious, and for those looking for a cocktail, or just a latte, this is the spot for you.

“We really do offer something for everybody,” Moore says. “It’s a casual atmosphere. It’s a great place to get together.” Moore also notes that they have live music and other weekly events. If you’re looking for plans, Immortal Vibes could be the move.

Immortal Vibes, 230 Main St., Hamilton. More info: immortalvibes.com.

Immortal Vibes is a new bar and vintage guitar experience in Hamilton. PHOTO: LOGAN TURNER

28 of Cincinnati’s Most Delicious Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants

BY CITYBEAT STAFF EATS

Cincinnati is home to hundreds of different restaurants, ranging from upscale steakhouses to mobile food trucks. We have a diverse variety of options for every kind of food mood. But we all know and appreciate the special charm that comes from a small, no-frills establishment. Sometimes family-owned and -operated and sometimes just an inexpensive grab-and-go joint, what they lack in size or ambiance, they make up for in taste. These local restaurants are essentials when you’re looking for a local, laidback dining experience.

Quatman Cafe

2434 Quatman Ave., Norwood; 224 West Main St., Mason

Since 1966, Quatman has provided Cincinnatians with cheap burgers, soup and “the coldest beer in town.” There are canned beers as well as a draft selection and rotating seasonal brews. They’ve also got daily specials where you can get a main dish plus fries and a drink for $10.

Brew House

1047 E. McMillan St., Walnut Hills

A Walnut Hills institution since 1978, located at “the corner of Good Food

and Drunks,” as scrawled on the side of its building. In addition to offering those cheap drinks and good food (try a burger with onion rings — you’ll thank us), the eclectic Brew House also offers funky décor and friendly people.

Thai Express

213 W. McMillan St., CUF

This little gem brings authentic Thai cooking and culture to Cincinnati. Located near the University of Cincinnati, Thai Express has been fueling both students and professionals for over 20 years. Their signature Pad Thai dish is a favorite among many, but do not be fooled; the number of delicious traditional dishes spans way beyond that, from Thai-style fried rice (Kao Pad) and Thai red curry (Gaeng Daeng).

Bard’s Burgers & Chili

3620 Decoursey Ave., Latonia

Located in a former chili parlor in downtown Latonia, Bard’s specializes in both burgers and Cincinnati-style chili (if the name didn’t give it away). Burgers are made with fresh, neverfrozen ground chuck, infused with spices, seared on a flattop and served on a toasted bun. Its Chili Craig is a chili burger topped whatever you want; the

Purist strips it down to just beef and the bun; and the Moonrise Donut Burger is Bard’s classic burger served on a Moonrise Donut bun.

Pleasant Ridge Chili

6032 Montgomery Road, Pleasant Ridge

This local multi-generational diner has been serving Cincinnati-style chili and American classics since 1964. They also offer chili to-go and late-night eats, like french fries topped with everything from chili to cheese to gravy.

Wunderbar

1132 Lee St., Covington

This tiny German restaurant features a great beer selection, giant burgers made with pretzel buns, pierogies smothered in gouda sauce and bacon, an enormous pretzel with beer cheese and a humble brunch menu. The space is tight, but if you can snag a spot, you will most likely enjoy some live music or karaoke along with your food or drink.

Herb & Thelma’s

718 W. Pike St., Covington

Opened in 1939 as Heine’s Cafe, the small drop-ceilinged dining room is what some may call a “hole in the wall,” but the simple and delectable burgers

are made to order and served by an incredibly friendly staff.

Boswell’s

1686 Blue Rock St., Northside

A casual Northside townie bar and grill in a historic building that dates back to 1886. The menu features inexpensive items: soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers with plenty of vegetarianfriendly dishes. A renovated back patio houses an al fresco bar and yard games.

City View Tavern

403 Oregon St., Mt. Adams City View, one of our fair city’s more historic drinking establishments, doesn’t have an extensive menu. The interior looks similar to many other dive bars: wood paneling and photos lining the walls. And while their menu and interior may seem no-frills, they make one hell of a burger (and bloody Mary) and have one of the best views in the city.

Mi Casita

5714 Glenway Ave., Western Hills

This taquería, frutería and mini grocery store offers delicious and authentic Mexican eats from a no-frills building along Glenway Avenue. The menu is

A pretzel with beer cheese from Wunderbar PHOTO: HAILEY BOLLINGER

brief in the way of the best taquerías, offering platillos like fajitas, caldos (broth), tortas like its delicious Cubana, tacos, empanadas and cups of sliced fruit. While you wait for your food, you can browse the aisles of snacks, toys and more. The place was a former hibachi restaurant, which you can tell by the small dining area, with a couple of tables and chairs situated around a flattop grill.

Uncle Yip’s

10736 Reading Road, Evendale

Uncle Yip’s serves authentic southern Chinese cuisine along with dim sum specialties. Dim sum consists of small portions of food delivered in steamer

baskets; dishes like the shrimp dumplings, barbecue pork buns and chicken sui mai are popular (and only $5.95 each).

Sebastian’s

5209 Glenway Ave., Cheviot

The longtime West Side joint is just as delicious as you remember it. A meatlover’s heaven, the menu offers numerous Greek items and what many consider to be the best gyro in Cincinnati.

Pepper Pod

703 Monmouth St., Newport Greasy spoon dining at its best, the Pepper Pod is a Newport legend, serving up all-day breakfast and double-deckers since 1956. This old-school diner

hasn’t changed much since it opened, giving guests a side of nostalgia with their meal, and each table comes with a vintage jukebox. It’s also one of the few places left where you can smoke indoors.

Big Jays Place

930 Hempstead Drive, Finneytown

Big Jays Place in Finneytown offers a menu bursting with flavor from its Caribbean comfort food dishes, like the Soul Food Plate, featuring jerk chicken, macaroni and cheese, collard greens and cilantro rice, or the half-pound Jerk Burrito, which comes with a choice of shrimp, jerk chicken or salmon. But what Big Jays is best known for is its oxtail, which Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives host Guy Fieri got to try on his recent visit there, saying, “If you don’t like oxtail, then come on down here to the oxtail conversion program.”

Kitchen Factory

1609 Chase Ave., Northside

This petite Northside pizza shop actually has a hole in the wall in the form of a late-night walkup window for people dining on the go. Kitchen Factory dishes up pizza by the pie or slice, with options for vegans, vegetarians and those who are gluten-free, as well as pastas, salads, sandwiches and flatbreads. It even has a happy hour from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays: $1 pizza slices.

Alabama Fish Bar

1601 Race St., Over-the-Rhine

Get in line at the Alabama Fish Bar and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best fried fish in the city: a choice of whiting,

perch or cod served atop a pile of fries resting on a bed of white bread. A side of sautéed peppers, onions and hot sauce make it a spicy, lip-smacking experience. Located on the corner of Liberty and Race streets, you can often find this corner store packed to the door on a weekend afternoon.

Gas Light Cafe

6104 Montgomery Road, Pleasant Ridge

This Pleasant Ridge eatery and drinkery has been a neighborhood staple for generations. Behind the bar, there’s a large list of local, domestic and craft drafts on tap, along with a full liquor shelf if you need some spirit. Stop by for a casual lunch or dinner, or watch sports on one of their TVs. What goes well with a cold draft of your favorite beer? The Gas Light Burger, daily homemade chili, onion rings, tuna melt, chef salad and potato skins with cheese and bacon.

Krishna Indian Carryout

313 Calhoun St., Clifton

Krishna Indian Restaurant is the University of Cincinnati’s best-kept secret. The tiny restaurant offers both carryout and dine-in, with about a handful of booths to choose from. Dishing out plates such as saag paneer, a vegetarian, spinach-filled dish with onions, spices and a hint of cream, and chicken tikka masala: tandoori chicken in a creamy tomato sauce. Be careful: The food can get spicy, ranging on a 1-7 spice scale.

Maki Express Ramen House

209 W McMillan St., Clifton

Maki Express serves up Ramen and other Japanese dishes. The restaurant is

Bard’s Burgers & Chili specializes in, well...burgers and chili PHOTO: HAILEY BOLLINGER

Stop by Kitchen Factory’s late-night walkup window PHOTO: EMERSON SWOGER

Herb & Thelma’s is a home-y eatery in Covington PHOTO: HAILEY BOLLINGER

small and intimate, and the atmosphere is a great mixture of modern and traditional. Sit down and enjoy a steaming bowl of tonkotsu ramen, or dive into an order of takoyaki.

The Swampwater Grill

3742 Kellogg Ave., East End

Feel like you’re really down south at the Swampwater Grill. Try an oyster your way or really get in the southern mood with dishes like gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya and shrimp and grits. Grab a beer or a specialty cocktail like their Cajun-style Bloody Mary. If you’re not a seafood lover, try their barbecue ribs, pulled pork and chicken or pork chop.

Kim’s Korean

10548 Harrison Ave., Harrison

For delicious, authentic Korean food in Greater Cincinnati, you can’t go wrong with Kim’s Korean. This strip

mall eatery has everything you could want from a hole-in-the-wall restaurant with its drop-tile seating, cozy booths, Asian-inspired art on the walls and a menu that doesn’t stray from the classics: savory dishes of bulgogi, bibimbap, Korean soups, seafood with rice and more.

Al-Madina Market & Grill

6 W. Corry St., Corryville

Situated across the street from the Corryville Kroger, Al-Madina Market & Grill boasts a humble yet comprehensive selection of Middle Eastern grocery staples alongside its open kitchen. The chicken shawarma is lauded by students from the nearby University of Cincinnati, where the sandwich is a natural takeaway selection for busy academics, although tables are available for those who want to dine in and appreciate the calming effects of an environment

that smells like grilled meat.

Bee’s Barbecue

5910 Chandler St.; 1403 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine

Bee’s believes good barbecue takes time and that smoking meat is an art – one they practice every day with patience and passion, using high-quality and locally sourced ingredients – even the wood they use is locally sourced. What results from that patience and dedication is a menu filled with tender, fresh barbecue you can buy by the half-pound or pound, on a sandwich or as a plate complemented with sides like creamy mac ‘n cheese, sticky BBQ beans and sweet honey cornbread. If you have any room left for dessert (or if you just want to power through), you won’t want to miss Bee’s Bourbon Peach Cobbler, crafted with bourbonand brown sugar-laced peaches with a sugar crumble crust, or proprietor Bee’s personal favorite: the banana pudding – made with fluffy layers of fresh bananas, whipped cream and vanilla wafer cookies.

Steak & Lemonade

2607 Vine St., Clifton

Cincy Steak and Lemonade is the place to get the most bang for your buck. You can get a gyro, cheeseburger, fries and plenty of delicious blended drinks on the cheap. Try their super colorful lemonades, with flavors ranging from rainbow to blue raspberry, and pina colada.

Siam Orchid Thai Restaurant

511 Fairfield Ave., Bellevue

This Thai restaurant located in Bellevue is tiny but inviting, with affordable food that comes in large portions. The salads are fresh and

jam-packed with veggies, like the Orchid Salad, which includes shredded cabbage, carrots and ground peanuts tossed in the chef’s secret dressing. It also offers classic Thai favorites like Pad Thai and chicken satay.

Proud Rooster

345 Ludlow Ave., Clifton Opened for more than half a century, Proud Rooster is a greasy spoon staple in Clifton’s Gaslight District. The cozy diner serves up all the classics like eggs served with your favorite breakfast meat, country-style breakfasts like biscuits and gravy and omelets made with fresh, whipped ranch eggs and a side of toast. For lunch, try one of their tasty hoagies, sandwich boards or burgers.

Knockback Nats

10 W. Seventh St., Downtown Often lauded as having the best wings in Cincinnati, downtown sports bar Knockback Nats offers a variety of appetizers and sandwiches that won’t break the bank while you enjoy a beer and watch the game. Do yourself a favor and try the famous smoked chicken wings. The menu also features a variety of sandwiches, from a hot Italian club to the smoked brisket, and classic cheeseburgers.

Dunlap Cafe

1926 Dunlap St., Over-the-Rhine Dunlap Cafe has been operational since 1936 with an emphasis on home-cooked meals, all-day brunch and draft beer. Breakfast sandwiches, omelets and other early morning classics are available all day with a selection of traditional and specialty burger and sandwich options for seriously reasonable prices.

Pepper Pod is greasy spoon dining at its best

PHOTO: EMERSON SWOGER

Thai Express serves up some of the best Thai food in Greater Cincinnati

PHOTO: PAIGE DEGLOW

Maki Express Ramen House is an intimate destination for ramen and Japanese food

PHOTO: HAILEY BOLLINGER

MUSIC

Sweet Send-off

Legends hosts a five-day music event, It’s gonna be May, during a turbulent time for the bar and venue

BY LOGAN TURNER

Despite being in the middle of a possible move and closure, Legends Bar & Venue continues to put on top-tier local shows.

Legends, located at 3801 Harrison Ave. in Cheviot, is hosting It’s gonna be May, a five-day series of concerts between May 1-5. The shows will feature primarily local acts, catering to a particular genre each day — perfect for a diverse audience. How could this be any better? The shows are only $5 each day.

Legends is hosting these shows during uncertain times for the bar and venue. In January, the music hall made it known via social media that they were looking to relocate. A GoFundMe campaign was created to raise funds to help keep the venue open and move to a new location. The campaign is still up, currently sitting at $6,330 out of a $40,000 goal. Information from the GoFundMe post describes how the donations are for required repairs for the venue’s potential new location.

“We have found the perfect spot to move the venue, however this new location will need a lot of renovation to get it up to par and able to host the shows we have booked for the remainder of the year.”

Legends made the decision to relocate following a year-long court battle with their landlord. According to accounts from Legends’ ownership, multiple attempts were made to urge the landlord to fix a leaky roof. Legends opted to put their rent in escrow based on advice from their lawyer in hopes

of encouraging the landlord to make the necessary repairs to the building where the venue is currently located. This action led to court proceedings in which a Hamilton County judge ruled in favor of the landlord and released all funds. Legends goes into some detail about this via the GoFundMe post.

“In January of 2023, the roof (which has been an ongoing issue since we signed our lease) basically gave in during a rainstorm,” the venue said in the GoFundMe post. “The apartment upstairs looked like the monsoon scene from Jumanji!! Guess where that all goes? That’s right, through the floor into our bar & venue.”

The landlord has yet to comment on the matter. Legends asked that CityBeat not include the landlord’s name due to fear of retaliation.

Promoter and Legends mainstay

Qbert “Q” Seiter initially suspected the venue would close sometime in May. However, Legends management was able to keep the shows going until Aug. 20. Q spoke with CityBeat about how the past few months have gone and what the venue’s future looks like currently.

“As of right now, I’m not 100% sure about relocation. We were able to extend until Aug. 20, and we will be booking shows until then. Past that, I’m not sure. There are 20 different things going on behind the scenes right now.”

Q also explained that Legends is still looking for investors and that if the funds are raised, a plan to relocate the

concert hall is in place. Legends currently operates without major investors and relies primarily on its shows and events to bring in money. The new location site is still under wraps. Q also expressed his desire to continue creating shows catering to mid-level crowds.

“You can play a place that maybe holds 50 people, but if you’re getting up to a place where you need to play to 150 or 200 people, you’re still too small to play places like Bogart’s or the Icon. And that’s the only thing I worry about, which is how many bands might not come through here until they make it up to that point.”

This type of promotional thinking is reflected in shows like It’s gonna be May Local acts like The Obnoxious Boot, Gorrest Fump, Wasted Away, Samarra and Southbound Beretta are among the lineup. The show on May 4 also features two touring acts, With Sails Ahead and Space Weather. With this many local acts, It’s gonna be May is destined to be one of the biggest local showcases in the Cincinnati area.

Each day of the show will showcase a different genre, each more stacked than the last. The first day features mainly solo and hip-hop artists; the second and third days are predominantly metal and hardcore; day four is a mixed bag of different types of artists and the final day is a more traditional rock show. The shows will feature 72 acts for a total of $25 across all five days. With so many acts and artists, why are the shows so cheap? Promoter Q explains that

this event is meant to give back to the community.

“It’s supposed to be a giveback. Almost every single band except for a couple, especially the ones that are coming the furthest away, understand that it’s a giveback show so that everyone can just come and have a good time. I thought it was going to be closer to our closing since it was supposed to be May 31. Instead, it’s like a kickoff-tothe-summer-type deal.”

Q also urged people to show up and support the venue as much as possible. He states that things as simple as buying a drink or tipping the bartenders go a long way. Q also expressed gratitude to all those who have donated to the GoFundMe campaign, but he prefers people show support by coming to a show and having a good time.

Information about It’s gonna be May, including the lineups and event times, can be found on the Legends Bar & Venue website and Facebook page. There’s also an event page on Facebook where eager concert attendees can RSVP. Legends also has other shows booked for the upcoming months. All information regarding any upcoming events can be found on their website as well. The GoFundMe campaign to help fund a possible new location can be found at https://www.gofundme. com/f/diy-til-we-die.

It’s gonna be May takes place at Legends Bar & Venue from May 1-5. More info: facebook.com/Legends.Bar.Venue.

Legends Bar & Venue PHOTO: ASHLEY MOOR

SOUND ADVICE

ATMOSPHERE

April 26 • Bogart’s It’s hard to keep up with Atmosphere. Nearly 30 years into an existence that keeps bobbing and weaving, few hiphop collaborations have been as busy as that of rapper Sean Daley (aka Slug) and DJ/beatmaster/producer Anthony Davis (aka Ant): 12 full-length studio albums, 10 EPs and 13 releases of varying scope under their “Sad Clown/Bad Dub” moniker, which includes remixes, live albums and other odds and ends. The duo sprouted from Minneapolis’ Rhymesayers collective of the late 1990s, over the years evolving a crafty aesthetic that melds samples with live instrumentation and a lyrical approach as introspective as it is dexterous. Atmosphere’s most recent studio album, 2023’s So Many Other Realities Exist Simultaneously, features 20 songs in just over an hour, an eclectic mix of sonic structures and Slug’s distinctive flow, which delves into topics both mundane and surreal. Album opener “Okay” sets the tone, employing a basic, Motown-esque beat as Slug raps about the fact that, yes, he’s going to be OK despite everything that has transpired in our unsettled present-day world. At age 51, Slug also seems content with his current place on the musical landscape: “Midwest average from the mid2000s/And being the best was never the intended destination/I just want

appreciation for my presentation.”

A big part of that presentation is Atmosphere’s live shows — stimulating endeavors that, unlike most rap tours, make it a point to hit Midwestern cities like Cincinnati.

“Doing my own headline tours, oftentimes you can start to realize that everyone that’s here, they’re here for you,” Slug said in a 2022 interview with Grateful Web. “And so you just gotta do those songs they want to hear, the ones

GUIDED BY VOICES WITH WUSSY

April 26 • Madison Theater

Robert Pollard is in a league of his own. There might be songwriters of varying degrees of effectiveness who have been nearly as prolific, but precious few have been able to transform their obsession with fragmented rock and roll songs into a body of work that has become a way of life. It’s easy to picture the 66-year-old Pollard waking up in the morning, walking into the kitchen in his Dayton, Ohio home and writing a song by the time he finishes his first cup of coffee.

Pollard’s long-running band

Guided by Voices has seen a multitude of lineup changes over the last four decades, yet each configuration has ably conveyed their beer-swilling ringleader’s indefatigable vision — ear-wormy songs rife with crafty guitar riffs, undeniable melodies and esoteric lyrics that have their own peculiar logic. Or as Pollard said in a recent interview with American Drunkard about his lyrical approach: “The meaning overall is not so important. Each line or stanza can have its own meaning. I’m not even sure what a stanza is.”

As anyone who has witnessed one can attest, a Guided by Voices live show is an altogether different beast from the band’s recorded output (largely no-frills productions that tend toward the lo-fi). Proof from a show at the old Southgate House in April 1994: As Pavement frontman Stephen Malkmus took the stage for their headlining set, he says this of GBV’s opening-slot performance: “Wow, I didn’t know The Who were playing tonight.”

that they hold dear to themselves. But when you’re playing in front of people that don’t know you, they don’t have any songs that they hold dear to themselves, so you have this opportunity to leave a first impression and to possibly convince them to go look into finding some songs that they may hold dear to themselves.”

Atmosphere plays Bogart’s on April 26 at 6:30 p.m. Info: bogarts.com. (Jason Gargano)

The first two stops on Guided by Voices’ current spring tour featured 40-plus songs from across their long and winding discography — from “I Am a Scientist” off of 1994’s breakout record Bee Thousand to a handful of tracks from their most recent release, last November’s Nowhere to Go But Up (which, according to AllMusic. com, is their 39th studio album!).

Curiously, the final song of each show was “Glad Girls” (from 2001’s stellar Isolation Drills), a fan favorite among many in GBV’s voluminous output.

Guided by Voices and Wussy play Madison Theater on April 26 at 8 p.m.

Info: madisontheater.com. (JG)

Guided by Voices

PHOTO: TONY NELSON

Atmosphere

PHOTO: DAN MONICK

CROSSWORD TRACK MEETS

BY BRENDAN EMMETT QUIGLEY WWW.BRENDANEMMETTQUIGLEY.COM

31. “¿Dónde Wally?” (Spanish edition of a Martin Handford children’s book)

32. Plains tribe

33. Letters on a tire

34. Tracks hidden in this puzzle

39. “Have you no shame?”

42. Animal that left a track in the southwest area

43. “Let’s do lunch, babe”

47. Box score letters

48. Chapeau