Country music’s Toby Keith had a big hit with “I Love This Bar” a few years back. And that could be the theme song for a number of folks in and around Dahlonega who are doing what they can to save a longtime downtown watering hole that is facing a wrecking ball. And patrons, new and old, are invited to gather Friday night at Johnny B’s to show support for it and saving it.
“Johnny B’s has been part of Dahlonega for decades,” declares a Facebook posting. “It’s more than a bar. It’s where friendships were built, where UNG (University of North Georgia) alumni made lifelong memories, and where town and campus have come together for years.”
But UNG recently purchased the property, and there are discussions about demolishing the building as part of future campus plans. “Many of us believe its history and cultural significance deserve real consideration before anything moves forward.
“This Friday night, locals, alumni, and longtime patrons are planning to pack the bar and show support. Not as a protest, but as a reminder of what this place has meant to so many.
“If Johnny B’s holds memories for you, come out Friday night and be part of the conversation. Let’s show up for a place that helped shape our story.”
A petition to save the place has been started at the link below and by 7:30 Thursday morning, more than 2,000 people had signed it:
“I love this bar
It’s my kind of place
Just walkin’ through the front door
Puts a big smile on my face
It ain’t too far
Come as you are
Hmm, hmm, hmm, hmm, hmm, I love this bar”
“I Love This Bar” lyrics. Written by Toby Keith and Scotty Emerick