CHARLOTTE -- Alcoholics Anonymous* meetings will temporarily shut down Wednesday when Creative Loafing, the city's premier (and only) alternative weekly welcomes new writer Cheris Hodges to the fold.

The newspaper will welcome Hodges 6 p.m. at Prevue, the NoDa bar that has quickly gained attention for debauchery since editor Carlton Hargro began hosting the weekly Poplife party.

"I hope my health insurance kicks in soon," Hodges said upon hearing the

news. "It looks like I'm going to need it."

Hodges comes to the Loaf from the Charlotte Post, where she was features

editor. A published novelist and experienced journalist, Hodges also has

canoodled with bestselling novelists and was credited with Karl Rove's

heart-wrenching decision to leave the Bush administration. Or so we hear.

All Creative Loafing staffers and their friends (at least the ones they

don't owe money) are invited to attend.

"I'm excited about the opportunity to buy Karen a beer," said Kim Lawson,

operations editor. "It's my way of giving back to the community."

Prevue is at 2909 N. Davidson St.

*The above statement is not meant to disparage or mock a worthy, vitally

important organization. Please don't send letters to the editor.