10 Things You'll Remember If You Grew Up In The 80s In Georgia
By Marisa Roman|Published January 17, 2016
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
Oh, the 80’s. A decade that will forever live in our hearts…and in our giant hairdos. Reminiscing about the 80’s usually calls to mind rock music, hair bands, jean jackets and trips to the mall. But what about traditions that were Georgia-specific? Growing up in this fine state has allowed for some unique memories of its own. Have a look at some of those key happenings you’ll remember if you grew up only in Georgia in the 1980’s.
From 1981-1990, Seiler the bulldog, was the very first live mascot ever to be invited to a Heisman trophy presentation. It's probably important to note, Seiler also wore a stunning, custom-made tuxedo. We bet this pup looked sharp.
You couldn't drive past a Six Flags Great Adventure without a pang of jealousy for all those kids already having the time of their lives inside. Not to mention, if you were actually headed to the theme park....heart attack!!
Before he became huge, Steve Martin toured around the country, showcasing his hilarity and hijinx at famed clubs such as The Last Resort in Athens, Georgia.
5. The Only Question you Needed to Answer: "What'll Ya Have?"
Grab yourself some pop and a chili cheese dog at this famed Georgia fast food drive-in. Forever in our hearts, and in our minds, continuously during the 1980's. Well really, every decade since the 1920's, right?
It even has its own website. That's right. The snow storm that hit Georgia in January of 1982 will forever live in infamy. The huge, unpredictable snowstorm paralyzed parts of Georgia, created havoc among the residents and forever became one of the most memorable storms in history.
In a crumbling church in 1980, famed rock band R.E.M. played their very first gig. To think, Michael Stipe sung his first lyrics in Athens, Georgia. If you were lucky enough to attend, you're a true 1980's Georgian rock fan.
Speaking of rock legends, did you also know that 80's rock group the B-52's also hail from Georgia?! Thanks to these Georgia Rock Lobsters, the world got a taste of New Wave and Post-punk, mixed with a bit of Rockabilly.
If you're a UGA fan, then you know the year perfectly well. 1980: the last year the Georgia Bulldogs won a National Championship. Raise your hand if you miss Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award winner Herschel Walker.
While we're on the topic of sports, we can't leave out one of the greatest parts of the early 1980s--Claudell Washington. One of the youngest All-Stars in Major League history, not to mention one of the primary reasons our channels were tuned to WTBS, The Super Station at 7:05pm EST.
Ahh, the 1980’s were quite a wild time. Some great rock-and-roll bands emerged, along with some very memorable moments in sports. And then there was the SnowJam! My oh my, Georgia was never the same after this “gnarly” decade. Feel like we missed anything? Share in the comments below!
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