It’s been a rough week for old Athens, dear readers. It’s too cruel to lose both Ort and Todd McBride in such a short time. But here we are left to wander the wreckage without two of our own. I’ve told you here time and again that Athens is its people and this week it feels like parts of town are sinking into the earth never to return, the pillars holding it up have gone…
Ort was universally known, his booming voice announcing his presence at the library or record store or bar or radio station. You’d leave a conversation with him knowing far more about a given topic than you’d ever have wanted to learn. New to town or an old friend, it was the same to him.
Todd was one a great diamond in a town with an embarrassment of riches. Witty and talented, you’d be lucky to share the stage with Mr. McBride or the Dashboard Saviors. We’re very fortunate to have him on tape, both with his bands and also in a series of interviews about Athens that you can find HERE.
Contributions in Todd’s memory may be made to Nuçi’s Space, 396 Oconee St., Athens, Ga. 30601, https://www.nuci.org/donateform.
Flagpole is currently collecting memories, short stories, photos and fan art of Ort from the community. If you would like to participate, please submit in 150 words or less to editorial@flagpole.com by noon on Wednesday, Jan. 25.
athensmusicjunkie.com 