Few would doubt that Athens is a town embued with a certain soul.

Yet, every year, the University Union likes to jolt our campus back to life with a week full of entertainment – just in time for spring weather.

Shenika Lee, a sophomore from Atlanta, is the coordinator for Week of Soul, a product of the Committee of Black Cultural Programming.

“It varies from year to year, but it’s always something to do with soul.”

The event will last for an entire week, beginning with today’s sampling of soul food at Tate.

Tuesday will incorporate a rather different form of community-building: a spades tournament.

“We wanted to provide something that is relaxing for our students – a very different form of entertainment.” Lee said.

The spades tournament is only a side show for that night’s film screening.

“[We'll be showing a film] that shows African Americans who took chances with their lives to be successful,” she said.

On Wednesday, the soul is exposed in a panel discussion: “My Soulful College Experience.”

“We will have nine to 10 panelists leading discussions about intercultural dating, campus culture and the meaning of the word ‘power’ in today’s society,” Lee said. “We’re addressing things like being a minority in a classroom, or why it’s okay for some races to date interracially and not for others.”

Thursday brings with it the most anticipated show of the week: Soulja Boy will be performing on Legion Field – free of charge for all students.

When it came to choosing a performer who fit into the theme of the week, Soulja Boy fit the bill perfectly.

“We wanted someone who was interactive, we wanted someone the crowd would enjoy,” Lee said, “We believe he is popular in the community, and almost anyone can enjoy his shows.”

The group will also be collecting canned foods at all the events.