OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene
CLASSIFIEDS Jennifer Keene
AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson
CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brown, Chris Dowd, Andrew Cobb Erwin, Erin France, Charles Hayslett, Gordon Lamb, Judy Long, Lee Shearer, Ross Williams
CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser
CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe
EDITORIAL INTERNS Mary Beth Bryan, Xinge Lei
PHOTOGRAPHERS Mason Pearson, Jake Zerkel
SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons
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Jobs Plan and New Housing Approved
PLUS, PROTESTERS SUSPENDED, PLANS FOR COLLEGE SQUARE AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued, Chris Dowd and Erin France news@flagpole.com
The Athens-Clarke County Commission approved a workforce development plan that will ultimately provide $3.3 million with the goal of empowering the local workforce to help them meet the needs of Athens businesses in the immediate and long term.
The workforce plan includes proposals from both the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce and the Business Development and Workforce Support Task Force convened by Mayor Kelly Girtz and co-chaired by commissioners Tiffany Taylor and Carol Myers. The chamber’s proposal, dubbed “Athens Achieves,” was originally approved in June. It focuses on workforce development in a traditional sense, including job training, education and building pathways to employment. The plan developed by the county’s task force takes a different approach. It seeks to empower and support workers through “know your rights” training, improving child care, offering loans for small businesses and support for cooperative businesses and employee ownership.
Athens Achieves has changed somewhat since it was originally approved. It will now receive a total of $2.35 million, up from $1.9 million, to provide support for some Athens-area nonprofits such as Destined Inc., which may receive up to $300,000 for its “Read to Succeed” program for elementary school students. Other nonprofits funded through Athens Achieves include Education Matters, which may receive $75,000 to support career pathways for high school students, and the Athens Community Apprenticeship Program, which may receive $150,000 for apprenticeship training.
The remaining $925,000 of the $3.3 million package will likely go to various nonprofits that can meet the goals laid out by Girtz’s task force. For example, the Economic Justice Coalition is being asked to develop a train-the-trainer program on workers’ rights topics such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, including ways to fight wage theft, discrimination and sexual harassment. Other nonprofits that are likely to receive funding include Quality Care for Children, which would provide business coaching and community support to promote high-quality child care in Athens; the Georgia Center for Employee Ownership, which would help convert local businesses over to employee-ownership after the founding owners retire; and the Georgia Cooperative Development Center, which would establish a business purchasing and marketing cooperative to help small business band together for their mutual benefit.
Commissioners praised the plan, which passed unanimously by an 8-0 vote. “The businesses that will grow out of [this plan] will contribute to the community and create jobs into the future for decades,” said Commissioner Melissa Link.
Commissioners Ovita Thornton and John Culpepper recused themselves from the vote out of conflicts of interest due to their current service on the board of directors for the Economic Justice Coalition and
the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, respectively. Since Culpepper’s vote was needed to pass the Athens Achieves plan back in June, that decision may not be legally valid, which is why the plan needed to be re-approved this month.
Despite universal approval for the plan, some commissioners expressed disappointment and frustration that it took so long to come together. The plan was initially conceived back in 2022 when socialist Commissioner Mariah Parker was able to pass a proposal for workforce support (as opposed to workforce development) in a split 6-4 vote over significant opposition. Parker resigned from office later that year. Around the same time, progressive commissioners Tim Denson and Russell Edwards lost their seats due to Republican gerrymandering, further undermining support for leftist economics. Some of Parker’s more left-wing ideas, like support for union organizing, ended up not being pursued, and the Chamber of Commerce developed its own plan in parallel to compete with Parker’s vision.
Due to various delays, Girtz’s task force ended up convening too late to allow for a robust process in which different proposals would be vetted and carefully selected for funding. Instead, the commission decided to fund the nonprofits listed above directly, without a formal proposal process. The funding comes from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, and it must be allocated by the end of this year or returned to the U.S. Treasury.
“In the best of all possible worlds, at least from my perspective, we would have had this done early enough that we could have had a request-for-proposal process,” Myers said. “At this point, it was really a question of, how supportive are we of the goals of workforce development, versus following what would be a standard procedure?”
The nonprofits selected must submit a scope of services for their proposals by Aug. 16. If the commission gives its final approval at its September voting meeting, these programs will be funded through 2026.
HOUSING APPROVED: The commission voted unanimously to approve almost 600 new housing units spread across three developments in different parts of town.
The first of these is a new apartment complex near “Space Kroger” on U.S. Highway 29 that will add 330 units with over 500 new beds off McClung Road.
On the Eastside, the commission up-zoned a parcel off International Drive that includes The Reserve apartment complex, which previously held more units than the zoning code technically allowed. By changing the zoning designation fully to RM-2, The Reserve will come into compliance and allow the developer to build 24 new multifamily cottages aimed at graduate students.
Finally, the commission approved 198 new townhomes, 29 detached single-family homes and 11,000 square feet of commer-
cial space on the far west side of the county off Cleveland Road.
While no one spoke in opposition to any of these developments at the meeting, some Cleveland Road residents were fiercely opposed to an earlier version of this development that included an 150unit apartment complex. The apartment complex ended up being removed in the final version, but with it went the only guaranteed affordable housing in any of the developments.
“I personally had wished that [the apartment complex] stayed,” Houle said before the vote. “They were going to use our inclusionary zoning ordinance and give us some affordable units mixed in with their market rate units… But I also appreciate that that has gotten us to where we are, where we don’t have a line of people at the podium opposing it.”
The inclusionary zoning ordinance grants developers density bonuses and other perks if they set aside some of the units as affordable for someone making 60–80% of the area median income. However, it has been underutilized since its passage in 2022 for various reasons. In this case, nearby residents “complained relentlessly,” according to Houle, and were able to prevent the affordable units from being built.
DEFINITION OF FAMILY: After business had concluded, Christian Smith, a UGA professor of higher education, went to the podium during public comment to ask for an exemption for owner-occupied homes in the definition of family ordinance. This ordinance—passed in the early 2000s due to complaints about parking, trash and noise problems coming from houses rented by college students— bans more than two
unrelated individuals from sharing the same home in single-family zones.
“As it has been mentioned many times this evening, housing in Athens is very scarce and is becoming very unaffordable,” Smith told the commission. “The current ordinance is unintentionally perpetuating this problem. I bought a five-bedroom home last month, intending to live with others, not knowing about this ordinance… Our community does not benefit from me having empty rooms in the house that I live in.”
At the end of the meeting, Link, Houle, Myers and Thornton spoke in favor of creating an exemption for owner-occupied homes. “I stood at this podium 20 years ago asking for that exemption,” Link said. “The ordinance has been helpful in many of our single-family neighborhoods in keeping them from being completely run over with student housing… but it definitely has a negative impact on our affordable housing capacity.”
Link hoped that the matter could be considered in the future land use planning committee, which is currently meeting and should be offering policy recommendations this fall. [Chris Dowd]
UGA Protesters’ Suspensions Upheld
A three-member panel ruled in favor of the University of Georgia last week and against six students who had appealed their suspensions for protesting Israel’s invasion of Gaza.
The “UGA 6” were among nine students and 16 total individuals who were arrested and charged with criminal trespassing the morning of Apr. 29, after constructing a temporary encampment dubbed the “Palestine liberation zone” on the North Campus quad. The nine students were placed under what the university termed “interim suspension.” Three opted to accept their suspensions, while six appealed it to the Office of Student Conduct. A 13-hour hearing was held July 29, with the accused students making statements and calling witnesses to support their case, and two students serving as prosecutors representing UGA. ➤ continued on p. 6
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Clinical and Translational research studies are vital in advancing the understanding, prevention and treatment of human disease. Increasing the level of participation in these studies can help researchers accelerate their efforts to develop new treatments. That’s why we need you!
Clinical and Translational research studies are vital in advancing the understanding, prevention and treatment of human disease. Increasing the level of participation in these studies can help researchers accelerate their efforts to develop new treatments. That’s why we need you!
Clinical and Translational research studies are vital in advancing the understanding, prevention and treatment of human disease. Increasing the level of participation in these studies can help researchers accelerate their efforts to develop new treatments. That’s why we need you!
To learn more about how you can volunteer to take part in advancing the understanding, prevention and treatment of human disease, visit ctru.uga.edu.
To learn more about how you can volunteer to take part in advancing the understanding, prevention and treatment of human disease, visit ctru.uga.edu.
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“As an educator, I see everything that’s happened since Apr. 29 as such a missed opportunity. Why not engage with students and model transparency and commitment to difficult conversations?” Sarah Gerwig, a Mercer University law professor, said in a news release from Students for Justice in Palestine. “Instead, administrators called the police, called for the use of force, and then saddled protestors with unreasonable sanctions. Universities should know better—we’ve seen this kind of intimidation tactic before—and not only does it not quell protected speech, it hurts the educational mission.”
The panel reached a decision Aug. 5, ruling that the students violated five clauses in the student code of conduct, including disrupting campus activities and failure to comply with orders from a university official. However, the panel ruled that the protesters did not endanger anyone’s health or safety, or attempt unauthorized entry into a building, as UGA had alleged.
Nevertheless, the UGA 6 now face a stiffer punishment than if they had not challenged their suspensions. The panel barred them from campus until Jan. 1, preventing them from living in student housing or taking classes during the fall semester, and forcing some to put plans for graduate school on hold again.
Josh Lingsch, an attorney representing two of the students, called the proceedings a “kangaroo court.” The students vowed to continue fighting. [Blake Aued]
ADDA Sprucing Up College Square
Downtown Athens officials want to move quickly with a plan for a permanent pedestrian plaza on College Square.
The Athens Downtown Development Authority has hired local architectural and engineering firm Smith Planning Group to design the project. Preliminary drawings show College Square as a tree-lined brick plaza, but the project now extends beyond that block to include pedestrian improvements along College Avenue and Washington Street.
As the design gets underway, though, Athens Downtown Development Authority officials are still discussing how to pay for what could be a $5–6 million project, according to Director of Planning and Outreach David Lynn. $500,000 out of an initial request of $8.5 million was included in a $150 million transportation spending package voters approved in 2022. The ADDA also plans to solicit loan proposals from banks with a downtown Athens branch. With the West Washington Street parking deck set to be paid off in mid-2026, future parking revenue could go toward loan payments, and the deck itself could be put up for collateral.
“I think this is the perfect handshake between town and gown that we’ve been missing for a long time,” said board member Jeff Bishop.
Public input will be a part of the process this fall. Since the ACC Commission voted to close College Square to cars in 2021—something that was debated since the 1970s—Lynn said most of the feedback has centered around keeping it that way. The local government has long planned to replace the temporary concrete barriers and picnic tables with something more attractive and permanent. Officials hope to finish construction in late 2025 or early 2026. [BA]
Help UGArden Win Grant
UGArden is a University of Georgia student-staffed community farm and a finalist for a $50,000 Kubota Hometown Proud grant for their work in reaching out to local people who can’t afford fresh, organically grown veggies and fruits. Voting for regional finalists requires visiting kubotausa.com/hometown-proud/vote, entering a valid email and typing the verification code to complete the voting process.
UGArden has already secured a $10,000 grant through the Kubota Hometown Proud grant and will use the winnings to build an all-hours produce stand outside of its location at 2500 South Milledge Ave. “It’s a really wonderful opportunity because it’s going to be accessible 24/7,” said April McCoy, UGArden farm manager.
While the all-hours produce stand will be built with the smaller grant, the $50,000 prize could go a long way in helping support the garden itself, McCoy said. The larger grant will help increase refrigeration space, buy seeds and pay student workers, she said. “We receive very little university funding.”
While UGArden sells its produce at the Tate Student Center farmer’s market, much of the garden’s bounty is donated to partner organizations that distribute the food, she said. UGArden gives away an annual average of 15,000 pounds of produce, according to a Kubota press release.
In addition to the Athens-Clarke County government, the project will require cooperation from the University of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Transportation (which owns Broad Street), both of which will be asked to contribute financially. College Square is UGA’s “front door,” Lynn said at an Aug. 7 ADDA meeting, and it’s a dangerous intersection for pedestrians, mostly UGA students.
Athens boasts several organizations addressing food insecurity, but the all-hours produce stand could fit a niche not yet addressed, McCoy said. The addition of a UGA Greenhouses bus line from the Plant Sciences building to the UGArden, along with the easy accessibility of an alwaysopen stand could help more Athens residents use and eat fresh produce.
UGArden will continue work with partner Campus Kitchen, McCoy said, and offer free pre-made meals at the all-hours produce stand for people who don’t have the time or energy to make a meal from scratch, as well as recipes and resources for guidance and inspiration. [Erin France] f
Preliminary rendering of College Square.
Georgia Lawmakers Study AI
IS THERE INTELLIGENT LIFE IN THE SENATE? WE’RE ABOUT TO FIND OUT
By Charles Hayslett news@flagpole.com
The Georgia Senate has established a new committee to study artificial intelligence, aka AI. The jokes, of course, pretty much write themselves. As a longtime follower of the Georgia General Assembly, I’d wager it won’t be long before AI begins studying the state Senate. Lord knows what it’ll find.
AI, as everyone knows, is the revolutionary new technology that is already permeating nearly every part of global life. It’s also scaring the jeepers out of a lot of folks. Will it take over jobs now being done by us humans? Will it bring about revolutionary changes in our society and our lives? Will we have to bring in Arnold Schwarzenegger to keep it from completely taking over and wiping out mankind? (My answers are yes, yes and maybe.)
Senator Burns and facing a hard deadline, I flailed around for a bit trying to figure out how to flesh out this week’s column when the solution hit me: I would interview an AI app.
I went to the ChatGPT website and asked a simple question: How might AI impact the lives of rural Georgians? Within seconds, I had an impressive 532-word response that covered agriculture, health care, education, economic development, infrastructure and services and environmental conservation, plus a short list of potential problems.
Among other developments, ChatGPT assured me that AI would be able to:
• “help farmers optimize crop yields by providing real-time data on soil conditions, weather patterns and crop health,”
Here at Trouble in God’s Country LLC (my lawyer makes me add the LLC), I’m naturally curious about how AI might impact life in rural Georgia. I’m actually sort of vaguely optimistic. It can’t make things much worse for most rural parts of the state.
My vague optimism is rooted in the well-established fact that we humans do a really lousy job of predicting how new technologies will impact things. Thomas Watson, the legendary CEO at IBM nearly a century ago, has been widely quoted as saying he thought there might be a worldwide market for about five computers. We’ve got that many in our house.
I worked at BellSouth Corp. (now part of AT&T) when cell phones came along in the 1980s. My recollection is that BellSouth and the rest of the industry thought the market for cell phones would probably be limited. Only executives and professionals would be able to afford them. Wrong on that one, too.
The Senate AI study committee is made up of six members, five of whom represent Metro Atlanta districts. Only one, the Honorable Max Burns, Republican of Sylvania, hails from rural Georgia. I thought it would be interesting to get his thoughts on how AI might impact life in rural Georgia and contacted the Senate press office to see if they could set up a quick interview. Sadly, Sen. Burns was too busy to talk with me. So, spurned by
• “enhance telemedicine services, making healthcare more accessible to rural residents by facilitating remote consultations, diagnostics, and monitoring,” and
• “provide personalized learning experiences for students, adapting to their individual needs and learning styles.”
ChatGPT did acknowledge that AI “may” automate some jobs, but it insisted “it can also create new opportunities in tech and service sectors, such as AI maintenance and support roles.”
My initial, cynical reaction to the last part of that sentence was: Great, future generations of rural Georgians will be reduced to working for AI. But the truth is, it was ever thus. The advent and evolution of computing gave rise to the field of information technology, which is now one of the largest and fastest-growing employment sectors in the nation. AI will almost certainly hit that field like rocket fuel, and therein lies a challenge and an opportunity that I hope the Senate study committee will focus on.
In a recent hearing, the committee heard from representatives of Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, and Georgia College and State University. That testimony was no doubt the right starting point, but I hope the committee will get around to considering the role of the state’s regional universities and technical colleges in preparing students throughout the state for jobs in AI. Odds are they’ll be the ones to educate and prepare a great many of the AI troops who will be needed to build and manage AI-related systems across the state. Beginning to figure out what those jobs will be—and how to integrate them with this rapidly evolving new technology—should be at least part of the job of the Senate study committee.
And with any luck, we won’t need to call Arnold to save us. f
Will AI terminate jobs in South Georgia?
feature
Stressed-Out Students
COLLEGE CAN BE TOUGH ON MENTAL HEALTH, BUT HELP IS AVAILABLE
By Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com
Stress and its associated mental health issues are on the rise among U.S. college students, a recent Gallup poll found—part of a wider increase among Americans of all ages during a stressful time in history, according to LaKeisha Gantt, a psychology professor at Georgia Gwinnett College and former counselor at the University of Georgia.
“I think it’s safe to say people and communities are stressed, so we’re going to see that in students,” said Gantt, who is also a board member and recent president of the Clarke County Board of Education.
Political polarization, safety fears, the high cost of housing, the uncertain economy—there’s a litany of worrisome things weighing down our psyches nowadays, and the pressures of college can simply add to those, Gantt said. Big things like grades bear down, but seemingly simple things can be big stressors, like transportation. “They may not have 30 minutes to wait at a bus stop,” she said. “Things like that seem little, but can be overwhelming.”
“In an ideal world, instructors are the first line, and [students’] peers,” she said.
Mary Roberts, a senior from Walton County at Georgia College and State University, is coming at stress in two different ways now. She’s studying it, and is interning this summer in Gantt’s private practice. And as a student, college stress is also personal for her. “Coming back to school is generally kind of nerve-wracking,” Roberts said—not just the academic demands, but with friendships, “coming back into rhythm with people” while meet-
“The most stress I’ve endured is dealing with friendships and schools, and trying to figure out who you are, and trying to balance family and school. It takes a lot of getting used to,” she said.
For the kind of stress and temporary burnout most students fall prey to, relatively simple strategies can help, Roberts said.
One is time budgeting, and with that working to find a balance between school, personal demands and personal needs. One friend builds a to-do list with timelines to help keep her on track. “Take time for yourself,” Roberts said. Make room for things you enjoy, be it walking in the woods—what the Japanese call “forest bathing”—exercise, reading, watching bad movies, getting your nails done. “Take breathing breaks,” pausing to exhale and inhale slowly, she said.
It’s important but surprisingly difficult to learn to recognize when you’re stressing out and what it’s doing to you. It can manifest in binge eating, a vicious cycle of procrastination, depression, irritability and headaches, among other things.
Students, especially new students, often struggle to find a balance between the time demands of work and school, and between those and family and social life. They’re having to juggle time and resources in ways they’ve never had to before, meeting new deadlines and coming up with the money to pay rent. They may be bringing family issues with them to campus. They’ve left behind friends and social networks, and must build new relationships. “So much of that adjustment is social,” Gantt said, “all of these things students juggle in addition to academics.”
For first-generation students and for minority students, isolation is an issue, and adjustment to a completely new environment can be especially difficult. “It’s a heavy burden to carry,” partly because professors are not likely to have had training in something like building an inclusive classroom culture “where people feel like they belong,” she said.
All that has meant a rising demand for mental health services on college campuses, though that’s partly because it’s become more acceptable nowadays to ask for help. Many colleges, including UGA, have walk-in and call-in services and have in recent years beefed up their programs to meet the increasing calls, including the availability of online help.
The pandemic has made counselors more comfortable in the online world, she said. It’s still not nearly as much as it needs to be, according to Gantt. Mental health awareness should infiltrate throughout a school, including instruction, said Gantt, who has brought people into her classes from her college’s mental health services to make her students aware of what’s there.
ing the pressure to keep up your grades, she said. Things tend to come to a head around the first of September. “That’s when things start coming at you,” she said.
“One thing I’d recommend to students is to put your phone down,” Roberts said. “Phones and social media are just taking over.” Among their bad effects is putting too much stress on comparing oneself to others, too much worry about how others see them. For some, that phone is kind of a shield from actually talking to others in times of stress, she said. “A lot of younger students, I feel like their whole lives are tied up in social media,” Roberts said.
When people get overwhelmed, it may be wise to seek out counseling, but it can be difficult even to take small steps to work out of a dark place. Stress can immobilize people, Gantt said.
But one very small step can be a beginning. “Just do one thing,” Gantt said. “They have to be things you can do where you are.” That might mean just talking about it to a friend, calling an online counseling service or “just throw some water on my face,” Gantt said.
When we see signs that stress is taking a toll on someone in our orbits—a roommate, a friend, a student in an instructor’s class—our reaction is often to say nothing, including times when a person might even be having suicidal thoughts. Asking about it “plants a seed, much more than ignoring it,” she said. “If you don’t say anything, that is how the stigma lives.”
“Part of that is being responsible for each other in our community,” Gantt said. “A roommate, even an instructor, will see stress before a therapist will.” f
Mental Health Resources
UGA offers a variety of online and in-person services for students and employees, including counseling, screening, crisis intervention, peer support and wellness classes. Call the UGA Health Center’s Counseling and Psychiatry Services at 706542-2273 or visit caps.uga.edu.
Advantage Behavioral Health offers evaluation and treatment, and has a 24/7 crisis stabilization center. Call 706-389-6767.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department’s Behavioral Health Unit, consisting of officers teamed up with social workers, can provide intervention and care during a mental health emergency. Call 911 and request the Behavioral Health Unit.
Local nonprofit Nuçi’s Space offers support groups, suicide prevention classes, referrals to counseling and other services, including financial assistance for treatment if needed. Call 706-227-1515 or visit nuci.org.
Suicide prevention hotlines include the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (1-800715-4225), the Crisis Text Line (741-741) and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988).
Remote counseling is one of the services offered at the University Health Center.
The Klan by Any Other Name
100 YEARS AGO ATHENS’ MAYOR ADDRESSED THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION
By Judy Long and Andrew Cobb Erwin news@flagpole.com
The 1924 Democratic Convention held at Madison Square Garden was a motherlode of chaotic behavior; today’s political wildlife habitat pales by comparison. It was the longest continuously running convention in U.S. history, lasting 16 days, from June 24–July 9, 1924. It was also historic because it was the first time a woman, Lena Springs, was nominated for vice president at a major party convention. A fight over the party platform between pro-Klan and anti-Klan delegates was so fierce at times that newspapers called the convention the “Klanbake.” Delegate Andrew Cobb Erwin, mayor of Athens (and grandfather of the late Milton Leathers), gave a rousing antiKlan speech that is now noted as one of the high points of the convention. Here is Erwin’s speech from 100 years ago, still relevant today. [Judy Long]
Ladies and gentlemen of the convention:
I am a delegate from Georgia. I am proud of it. To my mind, the Ku Klux issue is the most vital one which the Democratic Party has to determine. You have two courses that you may follow. You can, by adopting the report of the majority, evade the issue, which would, in effect, give your approval to the activities of this organization. Follow this course, and you may prepare for an ignominious defeat at the polls in November. Meet the issue squarely, as the people of this country expect you to meet it, and a glorious victory will be yours. I come from Georgia, and we have been trying for five years to get you Yankees to talk about this proposition. You hear on every side—in the lobbies of the hotels, in the halls, and upon the floor of this convention— that we should take no action relating to the Klan any more than we should take action relating to the Masons or Elks or any other secret organization. I cannot bring myself to this view of it; I have not heard of the Masons or Elks moving from state convention to state convention, from national convention to national convention, regardless of party, a highly paid staff of officials, lobbyists and spying investigators, with a view of controlling the acts of the delegates chosen to represent the people of this country. And just so soon as they do, then I favor a plank denouncing them, or any other secret society, in as strong words as a human hand can write.
guarantees every person in America the right to worship God according to the dic tates of his own conscience. It insures equal protection to all citizens, regardless of race or religion. The constitution of every state in the union preserves to each individual the right of freedom of conscience. The Ku Klux Klan makes a direct attack on these vital principles of our fundamental law. Its insidious activities have spread discord and distrust throughout this land of peace and harmony. However worthy the motives of its adherents may be, it constitutes the most destructive element in America today. The time has passed to temporize with these misguided people. They have challenged every citizen who cherishes and respects the Constitution. I, for one, am ready to accept that challenge. I am a Prot estant; I adhere to the tenets of that faith; but it would ill become me to deny to others that for which my ancestors fought. I come from a state that was founded as a haven for the oppressed, where all men might be free to breathe the air of reli gious liberty. I say that those Georgians who do not take a stand against this hooded menace, which prowls in the darkness, that dares not show its face, is not worthy of his ancestry; and I call upon you, my fellow Georgians, in this con vention, to vote for the minority report of the committee, I call upon you, my fellow dele gates from the South, in the name of that hal lowed Roman Catholic priest, Father Ryan the poet laureate of the Southern Confederacy, whose deathless verse you learned at your mother’s knee, I call upon you in the name of that loyal Jewish Patriarch, Judah P. Benjamin, who stood steadfast by his chieftain, Jefferson Davis, even as the star of the Southern Confederacy was declining, to purge from your hearts this senseless prejudice.
“ The time has passed to temporize with these misguided people.
As has been so ably pointed out by the distinguished speakers who have addressed you, the Constitution of the United States
To my fellow delegates from the entire country, I invoke the memory of those Americans of other races than your own who died with your own kindred on the fields of France. I implore my fellow-delegates from Georgia to vote with other delegates in this convention to erase the stigma that has been placed upon our state. Let us show the world that no American worthy of the name will bend his knee to this un-American and un-Christian thing.
Especially do I adjure you, fellow Georgians, to speak out like the men and women I know you to be and to demonstrate that Georgia is still entitled to wear her ancient motto: “Wisdom, Justice, Moderation.” f
Andrew Cobb Erwin
WED. AUGUST 21 • DOORS 7:00 NUCI’S SPACE BENEFIT EVENT FEATURING:
A Student’s Guide to Voting
By Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com
The main thing college students—anyone, really— should know about voting in Clarke County in the upcoming presidential election is that it will be easy, for two reasons.
One is that the ballot is short. There’s the biggie—the choice for U.S. President—but beyond that, each voter will cast ballots in only four other contested races: for the U.S. House of Representatives in District 10, the Georgia Senate, the Georgia House of Representatives and district attorney. (Parts of Clarke County are in four different state House districts and two different state Senate districts, but citizens only vote in one state Senate and one state House race, depending on where they live.) In all those contested races except one, there’s a Republican incumbent facing a Democratic challenger. In the race for district attorney in the Western Judicial Circuit, which includes Clarke County and neighboring Oconee County, incumbent Democrat Deborah Gonzalez faces indepen dent Kalki Yalamanchili. In addition, there are two pro posed state constitutional amendments on the ballot, both designed to increase property tax exemptions for homeowners, and another question asking voters to authorize the creation and funding of a new kind of court to deal with tax issues.
Several other races are already decided: state House District 122 (represented by Democrat Spencer Frye), sheriff (John Q. Williams), coroner (Michael Eberhart), tax commissioner (JP LeMay) and clerk of Superior Court (Elisa Zarate). In each of those races, no Republican candidates ran, so they were decided in party primaries earlier this year. In addition, nonpartisan races for county commission and school board (Melissa Link in Commission District 2, Stephanie Johnson in District 6 and Carol Myers in District 8, as well as Mary Bagby in BOE District 2) were decided in May.
the 2016 election (76%) and in 2020 (68%).
You can’t just show up to vote, however, unless you’re already a registered voter in Clarke County. Most are already registered; in Georgia, you’re automatically registered to vote when you get a driver’s license, unless you opt out.
College students can make a choice others don’t have— they can claim residence in Clarke County, where they are living most of the year, or in their home counties where their parents or guardians live.
A student registered in another Georgia county or another state can request a change to Clarke County resident status at the Board of Elections office downtown at 155 E. Washington St. In Georgia and in many other states, election officials in your previous place of residence will automatically be notified to cancel your registration there, but for some states individuals are responsible for making that notification.
Those who are not registered to vote at all can also do that at the Board of Elections office, as well as several other locations in the county. Check the elections office website at accgov.com/160/ Elections-Office.
Young people who register to vote must turn 18 by Election Day, be a U.S. citizen, be a legal resident of the county, and not be serving a sentence for conviction of a felony or have been found mentally incompetent by a judge. Online registration is available at the Athens-Clarke County website, as well as at the Georgia Secretary of State’s website, mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/, where already registered voters can also change their registration location and check their registration status or print forms from there to register by mail. The deadline for voter registration is Oct. 7. At both sites, you can also find your polling place and other information.
The second and more important reason it’s easy to vote in Clarke County is that officials planned it that way, going beyond state minimums to avoid the long lines that plague voters in some Georgia counties. Pending approval by the local Board of Elections, Clarke County Director of Elections and Voter Registration Charlotte Sosebee is proposing a full slate of early voting opportunities, including three days at the University of Georgia’s Tate Student Center. Early voting will begin at the Board of Elections office Oct. 15 and run through Nov. 1, the Friday before Election Day, but Sosebee is hoping to move early voting from the small downtown office to the Lyndon House Arts Center, where there is more space for voting machines and more parking. Early voting will also be available at other polling places closer to Election Day, including the AthensClarke County Public Library, and will also be available on some weekend days and at least one weekday beyond normal business hours.
Clarke’s push for early voting has meant voters have been able to cast ballots with little waiting in recent elections; in the 2020 presidential election, about 23,000 voters cast early ballots, another 18,000 used absentee ballots, and only about 9,000 waited to vote on Election Day itself. Sosebee is expecting voter turnout to be near 80% of Clarke registered voters this election, higher even than in
A picture ID is required to vote. That can be a college ID card, and even an expired driver’s license, among others. The county elections office and the Georgia Department of Driver Services also offer free voter ID cards.
Students who choose to remain registered to vote in their home counties can request an absentee ballot, if they can’t or don’t want to make the trip back to their hometown to vote in person. They must request the absentee ballot from the county they’re registered in, or from the state voter website. That ballot has to be returned by Election Day to that home county—not to Clarke County— so the earlier, the better. In Georgia, anyone can choose to vote absentee, so voters registered in Clarke can also vote absentee, returning those ballots in Clarke.
Other than statewide elections like the presidential race, where a voter is registered will dictate what’s on the ballot. For example, a student from Gwinnett County can’t vote in Clarke County races in Gwinnett County, or for Gwinnett County races if they register in Clarke.
The earliest day to request an absentee ballot is Aug. 19. The first day registrars can mail out absentee ballots is Sept. 21. The last day to submit an absentee ballot application is Oct. 25.
Keep an eye out in Flagpole closer to Election Day for more information about local contested races and ballot questions. f
Talk Like a Townie
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
Hello, new arrivals, and welcome to Athens from your friends at Flagpole! We know learning a new city can be intimidating, so we put together this lexicon of commonly used terms that will have you sounding like you fit right in. After all, we were new here once, too, you know.
BOULEVARD: Both a street running parallel to Prince Avenue and a neighborhood. Just one name, like a Brazilian soccer player.
BROKEN KROGER: Like Murder Kroger or Disco Kroger in Atlanta, Krogers in Athens have nicknames. The Kroger on Alps is so named because of its crowds, lack of parking and seemingly perpetual renovations. (Don’t listen to anyone who tells you it’s “Hot Kroger.”) See also: Space Kroger.
COBBHAM: The neighborhood of Victorian homes west of downtown and south of Prince Avenue. Is it pronounced COBB-am or Cobb-HAM? Talk amongst yourselves.
DOWNTOWN: A place where you’ll party for the next 4–7 years, then complain about when you return as an alumni and discover it wasn’t frozen in amber when you graduated.
before and after, but pros know that during the game is the best time to get your grocery shopping done.
GEORGIA CURSE: You sweet summer children have only known national championships, but ask your folks about 28-3, Tua Tagovailoa or the Braves circa 1991–2020.
GO BAR: Badly missed defunct bar at the corner of Prince Avenue and Meigs Street (pronounced Miggs), where Poquito’s is now. Still used as a descriptor for experimental music: “They play free jazz with a toy keytar and some paint cans. It’s so Go Bar.”
HOWDY: A half a shot, often ordered by older townies as a way to say “howdy” to their aging
NORMALTOWN: The area around the corner of Prince and Oglethorpe Avenue, so named because the UGA Health Sciences Campus was once a “normal school,” or teacher’s college. (In between, it was a landlocked naval base, if you can believe that.) The last townie stronghold, now that students have breached the Khaki Line.
OCONEE COUNTY: Here there be dragons. And Trump voters.
PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY: Tongue-in-cheek nickname for the left-leaning local government, which doesn’t lean so far to the left anymore after Republican state legislators gerrymandered our commission districts.
R.E.M.: Famous rock band from Athens that your parents listened to, composed of Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills and Bill Berry. If you see any of them around town, pretend you didn’t notice.
EAST ATHENS: A historically Black, now gentrifying, neighborhood across the North Oconee River from downtown. Not to be confused with the Eastside.
EASTSIDE: Can refer to everything east of the river in general, but more often specifically the largely white suburban subdivisions and strip malls off Gaines School and Barnett Shoals roads.
FIVE POINTS:
Street and Milledge Avenue. Once a middle-class neighbor hood of professors and students, it’s now primarily made up of Airbnbs and UGA football coaches’ mansions.
GAMEDAY:
friends without facing going to work the next day with a massive hangover. See also: Whisper.
KELLY GIRTZ: The mayor of Athens, who is a guy. Can often be
SNELLVILLE: Place Athens doesn’t want to be like. Whenever a new chain business opens: “We’re turning into another Snellville.”
THE STEEPLE: All that remains of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on Oconee Street, where R.E.M. played its first show in 1980. Much like he did with the loaves and fishes, Jesus miraculously expanded the abandoned sanctuary so that everyone living in Athens at the time could attend.
SPACE KROGER: At the time it was built, the Kroger out on Highway 29, toward Madison County, was the world’s largest Kroger—so big you can see it from space.
TIPPING: Giving money to your server, bartender or delivery driver—at least 20%.
THE TRESTLE: The elevated wooden train bridge featured on the back of cover of the R.E.M. album Murmur. Saved by
TUESDAY, AUGUST 13TH
NO PHONE PARTY & PASTA POP-UP W/ KENOSHA KID
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14TH
BEATS, RHYMES, AND LIFE OPEN MIC
THURSDAY, AUGUST 15TH
JAZZ JAM W/SETH HENDERSHOT FRIDAY, AUGUST 16TH
A.C. DARNELL, DHANA JEERA, BURLY IVY
SATURDAY, AUGUST 17TH
THE GRANFALLOONS CELEBRATE 14 YEARS OF HENDERSHOT'S SATURDAY, AUGUST 18TH GREG SURRATT ATHENS’ INTIMATE
CHECK
AND
Black History Course Is Back
By Ross Williams news@flagpole.com
Advanced Placement African American studies will be offered in Georgia high schools with state funding, State School Superintendent Richard Woods said Tuesday, but some members of both political parties are still wondering why there was ever any question.
Woods, a Republican, said his reversal came after receiving a letter from Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, a Republican, clarifying that House Bill 1084, the state’s 2022 law banning so-called divisive concepts in the classroom, exempts AP, international baccalaureate and dual enrollment classes. “Thus, any such course developed by its controlling entity will be automatically adopted within the state-approved course catalog. It will not have to receive a recommendation from either the State School Superintendent of Georgia or the Georgia State Board of Education. It will also not require a vote to approve or deny adoption into the state-approved course catalog,” Woods wrote in a statement.
“As I have said, I will follow the law. In compliance with this opinion, the AP African American Studies course will be added to the state-funded course catalog effective immediately,” he added.
Woods said all AP courses will now come with a disclaimer in the state course catalog stating that they were not vetted by the state and that districts need to obey the law.
“
The school year has already begun for many Georgia students, and some districts, including Atlanta, Cobb County and Clarke County, said they are offering the course like any other AP class.
Education Department spokeswoman Meghan Frick said Woods had been in contact with Carr before receiving the letter from Wade. “This, along with clarification he sought and received from the AG regarding the course adoption process, is the first formal legal opinion we’ve received on this issue,” she said.
Carr spokesperson Kara Murray confirmed the office provided legal advice but said they could not provide comment on it because of attorney-client privilege.
Powder Springs Democrat David Wilkerson, another House Education Committee member, said he’s relieved at the resolution, but he worries the divisive concepts bill creates more messes that lawmakers will need to decide how to tidy up. “Even though the advanced placement was there, you still get the risk of a teacher giving their political views, and that’s never been clarified on what that exactly means, your personal political views,” he said. “Is slavery wrong? Is it not wrong? I think we all agree at this point that it was wrong, but that still could be espoused as a political view. So I think as long as 1084 is around, I think you’re going to have that concern. Now instead of having it at the DOE level, you’re going to have it at the district level.”
culture wars.
Woods’ move is a reversal from earlier this month, when he said he chose not to recommend state approval for the college-level class because of the divisive concepts law, although he said schools could still offer the class through a workaround. That didn’t satisfy many critics, who said treating a class on Black history and culture as separate and controversial appeared racist.
Republican Gov. Brian Kemp also evinced doubt about Woods’ decision, sending him a letter questioning aspects of the choice.
Last week, Woods said he was seeking to determine whether the law exempted AP and other advanced classes. That’s where Rep. Will Wade came in. The Dawsonville Republican who sits on the House Education Committee was the chief sponsor of the divisive concepts bill and said the bill absolutely exempts those classes.
“Once I understood that he was trying to find clarity, I felt obligated as the author of the bill to get clarification with the AG’s office, which he provided to me, and I shared it with the staff at the DOE to say, ‘Hey guys, I’m not sure why you are having confusion and what’s going on, but I want you to know that I’ve asked this question, and I’m happy to share it with you.’ And that occurred earlier this week,” Wade said.
The course has been a flashpoint in the culture wars nationwide, including in Arkansas, where a lawsuit involving the course is underway, and in Florida, where Gov. Ron DeSantis said he would ban the course because he said it represented an attempt to indoctrinate children.
The battle lines have been different in Georgia, with Republicans who speak on the record opposing Woods’ original decision not to support the class.
Emory University political science professor Andra Gillespie said Woods may have realized he was fighting a losing battle without any allies, and Kemp may have calculated that appearing to fight against African American studies may have presented a bad look ahead of this year’s election.
“It could be something about not sending off unnecessary salvos in the culture wars,” she said. “This could be viewed as excessive, and it’s also something that could be framed as denying children the type of educational advantage that’s going to make them competitive for college, right? There are content discussions that I think Kemp and Woods and other Republicans are comfortable having, but this particular issue of denying a class for which Georgia students could get college credit, which would save them money in the long term and help them achieve a college education, is something that looks like that you’re actually denying people more things than you are providing more advantages and opportunities. And the optics of it look bad in a state where 30% of the population is Black.” f This article originally appeared at georgiarecorder.com.
UGA Slows Growth
NEW PLAN EMPHASIZES ONLINE GRADUATE ENROLLMENT
By Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com
Anew University of Georgia “strategic enrollment management plan” aims to gently tap the brakes on undergraduate enrollment while growing graduate enrollment. Much of that growth in graduate students would be online, according to the plan, released recently by UGA’s Vice President for Instruction office.
The plan also aims to increase the numbers of students from outside Atlanta, which has increasingly dominated UGA enrollment in the city’s recent decades of explosive growth. In addition, administrators intend to bring more low-income and first-generation students to UGA, largely by increasing transfer student numbers and then giving them more support, such as financial aid, food assistance and workstudy opportunities.
from 41,615 in fall 2023—and reach 45,000 in fall 2028, an average annual increase of about 1.5%, or about 700 students. That’s about the same as UGA’s annual numerical enrollment growth over the past four years. Last year’s fall enrollment was up 1,008 from the year before.
That enrollment growth will also increase tuition revenue by about 1.5%— enough to hire 115 new tenure track faculty, which will allow UGA to maintain a student-faculty ratio of 17:1, said UGA Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Andy Borst in his introduction to the plan, posted online at the UGA Vice President for Instruction web page (instruction.uga.edu).
What’s not in the plan is anything to do with the university’s dwindling numbers of Black students. According to a 2022 analysis by NBC News, as of 2020 the gap between the percent of Georgia high school graduates who are Black (36%) and the percentage in the freshman class (6%) was greater than any U.S. flagship university except the University of Mississippi. Black enrollment at UGA last fall was 7.5% of all students, the lowest percent since 2008.
The plan set a target of limiting the size of this year’s first-year class to 6,150 students—down from last year’s 6,311 and the record 6,471 in 2022. The first-year class would grow by half a percent each year, reaching 6,250 in 2028–29.
Graduate enrollment would go up by 4% a year, largely by increasing UGA’s modest slate of online graduate study programs. The two areas with the largest potential for growth are social work, which could potentially grow from 130 online graduate students in 2023–24 to 509 in 2028–29, and business administration and management, which could grow from 58 to 449. In all, UGA aims to double online graduate enrollment from 1,033 to 2,085 in five years.
Overall UGA enrollment for this fall is projected to be about 42,400 students—up
While UGA intends to limit freshman class size, the school plans to bump up undergraduate transfer student admissions to reach a ratio of one new transfer student per two first-year admits, including an increase of nearly 12% in the upcoming academic year. UGA admitted 2,851 transfer students in the most recent 2023–24 academic year, according to the statistics presented in the plan; by 2028–29, the number is projected to be about 3,396. Since the plan calls for maintaining the percentage of in-state students at UGA at about 80%, and about 95% of transfer students are Georgia residents, the numbers of out-of-state and out-of-country first-year students will presumably rise.
Transfer students are more likely to be low-income than first-year admits, and twice as likely to be the first in their families to get a bachelor’s degree, according to the management plan’s narrative.
The plan comes as applications to enter UGA have reached levels unimaginable a few years ago—fueled perhaps by both Bulldog football success in the past few seasons and UGA’s rising academic reputation. Last year, UGA received 43,090 applications, down slightly from the previous year’s 43,700, but more than twice the number a decade earlier. “Our enrollment strategies are crafted to align campus resources with student demand,” Borst wrote.
UGA plans to house a fraction of the new students on campus. A 565-bed residence hall for first-year students is slated to be built by fall 2026, along with a new dining hall and parking deck addition near the high-rise dorms on Baxter Street. But close to 2,000 of the projected 3,437 additional students five years from now will be looking for off-campus housing, and that’s assuming those 1,052 new online graduate students don’t live here. f
UGA’s Class of 2027, pictured here, numbered 6,311, but the university cut freshman admissions to 6,150 this year and plans to grow more slowly in the future.
Creativity on Campus
By Jessica Smith arts@flagpole.com
You don’t have to be a student to enjoy all of the beautiful, unusual and thought-provoking artwork spread across the University of Georgia’s many galleries. Check out the fall preview below, and remember to check Flagpole’s weekly Art Around Town listings to find out about exhibitions on and beyond campus.
THE ATHENAEUM: In “Fission or, Eclipse,” New York-based artist Rose Salane arranges seemingly mundane objects collected from disparate archives to analyze systems of evaluation, exchange and organization that shape urban life. An opening reception will be held Sept. 12 from 6–9 p.m., and the exhibition will remain on view through Nov. 23. Salane will offer an artist talk on Sept. 11 at 5:30 p.m. in Auditorium S151 of the Lamar Dodd School of Art.
DODD GALLERIES: Currently on view through Sept. 26, “Trick Mirror” includes a series of portraits by Dodd professor and recent retiree Diane Edison that attempt to negotiate an understanding of self in relation to family and friends. Contemplating the complexities of platonic, professional and romantic relationships, her portraits are semi-autobiographical in nature as she translates and superimposes parts of her own likeness onto the subjects.
In “Inland” (Aug. 29–Nov. 7), Dodd alumna Hong Hong examines the body as a closed ecological system through large-scale paintings made from handformed paper incorporating fragments from the natural world and the artist’s personal history. Plants, soil and water from specific sites of meaning intermingle with poems and heirlooms, suggesting a narrative and the passing of time.
for October that celebrates the legacy of the Hungarian composer and pianist. Pulling from the museum’s permanent collection, the exhibition features works on paper that illustrate Russian cityscapes in the 1840s during the time of Liszt’s visits.
Captured from within locations across the Southeast, Micah Cash’s photography exhibition “Waffle House Vistas” (Aug. 24–June 1) contemplates the built and natural environments, contrasting the comfort of the iconic diner’s familiar interior with the diversity of physical and cultural landscapes that exist beyond the windows. The
1841 oil painting “Tallulah Falls” with contemporary photographs of Tallulah Gorge by Caitlin Peterson. As part of the museum’s “In Dialogue” series, which aims to create conversations around works from the permanent collection by placing them in new contexts alongside works of other artists or time periods, the exhibition reexamines the notion of a natural wonder and the ethics of witnessing nature in relation to the Indigenous and environmental histories in the region.
Three additional exhibitions are slated to be on view Sept. 21–Dec. 1. “Mind the Gap: Selections from the Permanent Collection” bridges the past and present through an array of works representing the spaces between tradition and innovation as well as historical and contemporary narratives. Shot during the 2005 United Nations Climate Change Conference, the photographs in “Joel Sternfeld: When It Changed” capture the shocked expressions of scientists, government officials, journalists and other world leaders as they receive alarming evidence of ecological crisis. Organized in response to Sternfeld’s exhibition, the companion installation “The Artist as Witness” investigates environmental changes and how humans have impacted the natural landscape through works by artists including Arthur Tress, Robert von Sternberg and Diane Farris.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART: Currently on view through Dec. 1, “Saint Petersburg as Franz Liszt Saw It” was organized in conjunction with the American Liszt Society Festival at UGA’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music, an event scheduled
exhibition, which pulls from a photo series and book by the same name, will premiere a new video that disrupts the nostalgia of the still images and further emphasizes Cash’s directive to look up from the plate and observe the surroundings.
“In Dialogue: On Wonder and Witnessing at Tallulah Falls” (Sept. 7–Jan. 12) pairs George Cooke’s
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY: Exploring themes of life and death, Joseph Peragine’s exhibition “Low Anchored Cloud/Spring Hoax” pulls from two distinct bodies of work. Three large-scale paintings from “Low Anchored Cloud,” a series named after a Henry David Thoreau poem, present soft-focused animals in lush, dreamlike environments. The 20 smaller paintings from Peragine’s “Spring Hoax” series depict skulls recurring in various arrangements of vibrant flowers and insects, pulling inspiration from Dia de los Muertos imagery and vanitas, a genre of still life painting symbolically showing the transience of life. Currently on view through Dec. 21, this is his first solo show on campus since becoming the director of the Lamar Dodd School of Art two years ago. A reception will be held Aug. 20 at 5 p.m.
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES: Currently on view through December, “Athens Potluck” features portraits of local musicians taken by Jason Thrasher for his eponymous book originally published in 2017. Each subject selected the next
“Store #1449: Calvert City, Kentucky” by Micah Cash at the Georgia Museum of Art
person to be photographed, creating an introduction to the music scene that organically flows from one genre to the next. In addition to over 100 photographs, the exhibition fills the five gallery rooms with selected stories, artwork, artifacts and memorabilia. Thrasher will offer a curator’s talk on Sept. 20 at 3 p.m.
Riding the high of the recent 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, “Bulldog Olympians: A Celebration of UGA’s Olympic History” (Aug.–Jan.) spotlights UGA athletes who have represented the country in the international competition. The exhibition was curated by Jack Bauerle, former coach of UGA’s Swimming & Diving program as well as head coach of the U.S. women’s swim team in the 2008
Olympics; Jason Hasty, UGA Athletics History Specialist; and John Frierson, staff writer for the UGA Athletic Association. Hasty will lead free tours at 3 p.m. on Fridays before home football games.
The new shows join “For All the People: A Century of Citizen Action in Health Care Reform,” an exhibition that shares how movements of ordinary citizens have helped shape the American healthcare system. When “For All the People” comes down in October, “Precious, Almost Sacred: Voting Rights in America” will go up—right in time for the presidential election—exploring the long battle to extend suffrage, the evolution of voting methods and the efforts to protect access to the ballot box. f
Diane Edison at the Dodd Galleries
“Tallulah Falls” by George Cooke at the Georgia Museum of Art
event calendar
Tuesday 13
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person basic conversation and vocabulary. 12:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
CLASSES: Reiki Circle (Serenity Attunement) Connect in meditation and learn more about Reiki. Second Tuesdays, 6 p.m. $22. www.serenity attunement.com
CLASSES: Adult Line Dancing (Rocksprings Park Pavilion) All skill levels are invited to learn and practice a new line dance each month. Ages 18 & up. $1. 6:30 p.m. www. accgovga.myrec.com
EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy live music, craft cocktails and a taco pop-up from Don Carne. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www. livewireathens.com
EVENTS: West Broad Farmers Market and Garden (Athentic Brewing Co.) Vendors will be on site with fresh produce, local fare, rare plants, artisan goods and more. Second and Fourth Tuesdays, 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com
FILM: This or That: Adventure Movie (Bogart Library) Screening of an adventure movie voted on by attendees. Second and fourth Tuesdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
GAMES: Mahjong Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn to play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1–4 p.m. $1. www.wintervillecenter.com
GAMES: Tuesday Night Shenanigans (Southern Brewing Co.) Play board games and arcade games on site, bring your own games or even your D&D group. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo
GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens
KIDSTUFF: Toddler Tuesday: Terrific Textures (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy art and storytime in the galleries, then complete an art activity. Ages 18 months to 3 years. RSVP by email. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu
MEETINGS: Knot Just For Knitters (Oconee County Library) Bring your own crafting project to work on while chatting with fellow crafters. Tuesdays, 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly group, hear memoirs from others and learn tips on how to write your own. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@petanque.org, www. athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 14
CLASSES: Salsa Dancing (El Carretonero) Join SALSAthens for Cuban salsa lessons meeting a variety of dance abilities. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced), 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10. SALS AthensDancing@gmail.com
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions to help create improv magic. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com
and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www.athens farmersmarket.net
FILM: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1988 Japanese film Kaito Ruby. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host Nickalous Benson. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook. com/baddogathens
KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: LEGO & Builder’s Club (Bogart Library) Drop in to use LEGOs and other building materials. All ages. 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen Anime Club (Oconee County Library) Join other fans of manga and anime to discover books, play games, snack and watch anime. Grades 6–12. 7 –8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
MEETINGS: Athens Psychedelic Society (740 Prince) Meet likeminded individuals and discuss what community and support could look like in Athens for sacred medicine. 6 p.m. FREE! Athens Psychedelic Society on Facebook
Thursday 15
ART: Artist Talk (Lyndon House Art Center) Irina Rozovsky and Steven L. Anderson will discuss their solo exhibitions currently on view. 6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ LyndonHouseArts
ART: Opening Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Multi-media artist Kelsey Wishik’s exhibition “Multiplicity”
will be on view featuring abstracted representations of nature. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.com
CLASSES: AI for Image Generation and Editing (ACC Library) Learn how to use tools to generate and edit content, and to create images and art from text prompts. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: Yoga in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy a yoga class in the art galleries led by instructors from Five Points Yoga. Open to all skill levels. Attend in person (first come, first served) or via Zoom. 6 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
EVENTS: Athens Film Festival
(Downtown Athens) This inaugural festival spans three days screening more than 80 films across four venues with expert-led workshops and networking events. Aug. 15, 5–11:30 p.m. Aug. 16–17, 1 p.m.–12 a.m. $8–60. www.athens film.com
FILM: Club Ned Anime Society (ACC Library) Join club members to watch and discuss episodes of “Serial Experiments Lain,” “Kaguya-sama: Love is War” and “Erased.” 6:30–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.animefandom.org
GAMES: Mahjong Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn to play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1–4 p.m. $1. www.wintervillecenter.com
GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this weekly game of chance. Thursdays, 6 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.facebook.com/vfw2872
GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Jon Head. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnyspizza. com
KIDSTUFF: Read to Rover (Bogart Library) Drop in to read a story to Maisy Jane and her furry friends. Ages 4 & up. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) Join the
volunteer led role-playing adventure where you can fight dragons, join an army, go on a quest in distant lands or find hidden treasure. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
MEETINGS: Coffee Hour (Oconee County Library) Drop in to drink some coffee, while supplies last. Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@petanque.org, www. athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Pride and Prejudice (Town & Gown Players) A theatrical adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel about the witty heroine Elizabeth Bennet. Aug. 15–17, 8 p.m. Aug. 18, 2 p.m. $15–20. www. townandgownplayers.org
Friday 16
EVENTS: Terrapin Mobile Food Pantry (Terrapin Beer Co.) First come, first serve rain or shine food distribution for those in need who meet income eligibility requirements. Third Fridays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.terrapinbeer.com
EVENTS: Athens Film Festival (Downtown Athens) This inaugural festival spans three days screening more than 80 films across four venues with expert-led workshops and networking events. Aug. 15, 5–11:30 p.m. Aug. 16–17, 1 p.m.–12 a.m. $8–60. www.athens film.com
GAMES: Chess Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Join others for a weekly chess competition. Fridays, 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.winterville center.com
KIDSTUFF: Meet & Play (Bogart Library) Drop in for facilitated open play with age-appropriate toys. Best for ages 6 & under. Every Friday, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
THEATER: Pride and Prejudice (Town & Gown Players) A theatrical adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel about the witty heroine Elizabeth Bennet. Aug. 15–17, 8 p.m. Aug. 18, 2 p.m. $15–20. www. townandgownplayers.org
Saturday 17
ART: Opening Reception (ATHICA) The exhibition “How to Measure an Ocean” features work representing the artistic and life partnership of James Enos and Jess Machacek. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athica.org
CLASSES: Back-to-School Open House (Highland Yoga Beechwood) Check out yoga classes for all levels and meet teachers. Registration required. Aug. 17, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Aug. 18, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. FREE! www. highland-yoga.com/open-house
EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers market.net
EVENTS: Danielsville Farmers Market (Danielsville City Hall) Browse vendors with an array of homemade, handmade and stategrown products. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.danielsvillemarket.wixsite. com/farmersmarket
EVENTS: 2024 BouleYard (Boulevard) The annual neighborhoodwide yard sale supports Boulevard’s tree planting initiative with individual homes setting up yard sales. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.boulevard athens.com/bouleyard.html
EVENTS: FanFest (Oconee County Library) The third annual celebration of creativity features live music, guest authors, artists, gaming, vendors, a cosplay contest and more. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
EVENTS: Meteor Showers and Planets Galore (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Explore the night sky with this planetarium program previewing what the August skies hold. Ages 5 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. $5 (ACC residents), $7.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga. myrec.com
EVENTS: West Broad Farmers Market (Rocksprings Park Pavilion) Vendors will be on site with fresh produce, local fare, rare plants, artisan goods and more. Saturdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.athens landtrust.org/wbfm
EVENTS: Seed Sorting for Our Seed Library (ACC Library) Join UGA Plant Biology Graduate Student Association students in sorting seeds for the free seed library. FREE! 1 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Athens Film Festival (Downtown Athens) This inaugural festival spans three days screening more than 80 films across four venues with expert-led workshops and networking events. Aug. 15, 5–11:30 p.m. Aug. 16–17, 1 p.m.–12 a.m. $8–60. www.athensfilm.com
EVENTS: Mrs. Roper Romp (Normaltown) Dress up as Helen Roper from “Three’s Company” to join in this crawl and raise money for local organizations. 2–8 p.m. $40 & up. www.roperrompathens.com
EVENTS: Beats and Brews (Athentic Brewing Co.) The Athens Clarke County Democrat Committee is hosting a fundraiser featuring merchandise, music, raffles and more. $25 suggested donation. 5–9 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
EVENTS: Athens Folk Music and Dance Society Contra Dance (Memorial Park Administration Building) This community dance features caller Seth Tepfer and live music by Old Folkers. No partner required. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7 p.m. (dance). $12 (adults), $10 (students w/ ID), 17 & under FREE! www.athensfolk.org
EVENTS: Zumba After Dark Glow Party (work.shop) Join this highenergy dance party in neon attire and grab glow sticks, body paint and more to create a dazzling atmosphere. Supplies provided. 9 p.m. $15 (online only). www.instagram. com/studiod3athens
FILM: Movies By Moonlight (Dudley Park) Screening of The Fantastic
Mr. Fox. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com
KIDSTUFF: Family Day: Line and Color (Georgia Museum of Art) Learn about the elements of art with interactive gallery activities and a take-home art project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. org
KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Weaving Workshop (Bogart Library) Attendees will learn the basics of weaving. Supplies provided. Ages 10 & up. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
MEETINGS: Athens Writer’s Group (ACC Library) Informational meeting for an interactive writing group, discuss needs and wants for the group. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/mikhaylawrites
MEETINGS: Athens Rock Quarry Community Discussion (East Friendship Baptist Church) Discuss concerns and potential solutions around the impact of the quarry on nearby health and homes. 2 p.m. FREE! Inner East Athens Neighbors on Facebook
OUTDOORS: Secret Creek Adventure (Sandy Creek Park) Take a guided creek walk and explore with a snack break. Registration required. 9:30 a.m. $5 (ACC resident), $8 (non-resident). www. accgov.com/myrec
OUTDOORS: Walk Into Wellness (Dudley Park) Get moving alongside and meet others in the community, with each walk focusing on a different health topic. Ages 8 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/myrec
PERFORMANCE: Athens Ultimate Drag Cabaret (40 Watt Club) The Vanity Vixxxens will perform featuring Extasy, Jacqueline, Cola, Bianca, Sasha, Lacie and Karmella. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.40watt. com
THEATER: Pride and Prejudice (Town & Gown Players) A theatrical adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel about the witty heroine Elizabeth Bennet. Aug. 15–17, 8 p.m. Aug. 18, 2 p.m. $15–20. www. townandgownplayers.org
Sunday 18
ART: Sunday Spotlight Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) This drop-in public tour features highlights of the permanent collection. 3 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: Back-to-School Open House (Highland Yoga Beech-
wood) Check out yoga classes for all levels and meet teachers. Registration required. Aug. 17, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Aug. 18, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. FREE! www.highland-yoga. com/open-house
CLASSES: Energy Medicine for the Creative Soul (ATHICA) Dr. Kandy Duke leads a workshop focused on practicing energy medicine techniques. 4:30 p.m. $15 (suggested donation). www.tinyurl.com/ CreativeEnergyMedicine
COMEDY: Tournament of Topics (The Globe) Competition with a variety of comedians riffing on random topics head-to-head hosted by Levi Crumely. 9 p.m. $7. www. athenscomedy.com
EVENTS: Pups & Pints (Athentic Brewing Co.) The patio will be full of adoptable dogs with a free pour for every adoption. Third Sundays, 3–6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Southern Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 4 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens
KIDSTUFF: Back-to-School Bash
(Holy Cross Lutheran Church) Enjoy live music, food, games, prizes and a pop-up park. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. FREE! www.holycrossathens. com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Pride and Prejudice (Town & Gown Players) A theatrical adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel about the witty heroine Elizabeth Bennet. Aug. 15–17, 8 p.m. Aug. 18, 2 p.m. $15–20. www. townandgownplayers.org
Monday 19
CLASSES: Beginner Adult Learn to Ride (Sandy Creek Park) Learn to ride a bike in a safe and friendly environment. Ages 18 & up. 5–6:30 p.m. $6 (resident), $9 (non-resident). www.accgov.com/trails
GAMES: General Trivia with Erin (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Erin. Mondays, 7–9 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (LumberJaxe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Trivia with Marissa (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Test your
trivia knowledge with host Marissa. 8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
KIDSTUFF: Monday Funday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for songs, fingerplays, storytelling and STEAM activities. Ages 3–7 years. Registration suggested. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen D&D Club (Oconee County Library) Join a one-shot game open to all skill levels, including Dungeon Masters, with a prize drawing at the end of the evening. Grades 6–12. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Third Monday Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. Third Mondays, 7 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (Epting Events) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
Tuesday 20
ART: Creative Aging Art Workshop (Georgia Museum of Art) Join teaching artist Toni Carlucci to discuss art in the galleries and to make art in the studio classroom. All skill levels welcome. Ages 55 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu
ART: Artist Reception (UGA Performing Arts Center) Painter and UGA professor Joseph Peragine’s exhibition “Low Anchored Cloud/ Spring Hoax” will be on view with light refreshments. 5 p.m. FREE! pac.uga.edu/lobby-gallery
CLASSES: Android Basics (ACC Library) Learn about the Android operating system for smartphones and tablets. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person basic conversation and vocabulary. 12:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
CLASSES: Adult Line Dancing (Rocksprings Park Pavilion) All skill levels are invited to learn and practice a new line dance each month. Ages 18 & up. $1. 6:30 p.m. www. accgovga.myrec.com
COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 9 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
EVENTS: History Hour: Athens’ Oldest Restaurants (Lyndon House Arts Center) Ashley Shull and Justin Kau will share stories
about the Mayflower Restaurant and other local favorites. 12–1 p.m. FREE! www.historicathens.com
EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy live music, craft cocktails and a taco pop-up from Don Carne. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www. livewireathens.com
FILM: Saving the Chattahoochee (UGA Special Collections Library) Screening of the documentary about one of the first woman riverkeepers in the country followed by a panel discussion. 5:30 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu
GAMES: Mahjong Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn to play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1–4 p.m. $1. www.wintervillecenter.com
GAMES: Tuesday Night Shenanigans (Southern Brewing Co.) Play board games and arcade games on site, bring your own games or even your D&D group. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo
GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens
LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Pick up a copy of The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal and discuss it with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
MEETINGS: Knot Just For Knitters (Oconee County Library) Bring your own crafting project to work on while chatting with fellow crafters. Tuesdays, 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@petanque.org, www. athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 21
CLASSES: Credit 101 Workshop (Athens Land Trust) Learn the basics of credit and what resources are available to help. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslandtrust.org
CLASSES: Salsa Dancing (El Carretonero) Join SALSAthens for Cuban salsa lessons meeting a variety of dance abilities. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced), 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10. SALS
AthensDancing@gmail.com
CLASSES: MS Excel: Formulas, Functions and Sorting (ACC Library) This fast-paced class teaches how to work with datasets and perform a basic data analysis. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org
COMEDY: Second Annual Athens Improv Festival (Buvez) The festival spans four days at different locations, with today’s event featuring a show of local improvisers. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.flyingsquid comedy.com
COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. Hosted by Noell Appling. Third Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, art and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www.athens farmersmarket.net
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1987 action comedy film Catch the Heat. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host Nickalous Benson. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook. com/baddogathens
KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: LEGO & Builder’s Club (Bogart Library) Drop in to use LEGOs and other building materials. All ages. 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: YA Bad Art Night (Oconee County Library) A night of creating cursed creations with a prize for the best worst artwork. Ages 12–18. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (Avid Bookshop) Author Suzi Ehtesham–Zadeh will discuss her newest book of short stories Zan. 7 p.m. $5 www.avid bookshop.com
OUTDOORS: ‘Normal’ Run (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join the Athens Road Runners for a 1–3 mile run that starts and ends at Athentic Brewing. Every other Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com f
live music calendar
Tuesday 13
Flicker Theatre & Bar
8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
GOODHOST Energetic alternative group incorporating math rock elements.
HANDHOLDER A group whose multi-genre sound ranges from folk to rock to electronic.
Hendershot’s
No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID Instrumental adventure-jazz group centered around the rollicking compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Luca Lombardi, Seth Hendershot and various guests.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Sunflower Concert Series. 7 p.m. $12 (ages 5–16), $20 (Friends of the Garden), $24. botgarden.uga.edu
ABBEY ROAD LIVE Beloved, Athens-based tribute band that keeps the crowd rocking to its extensive Beatles cover sets.
Chairs, blankets and picnics are welcome at this concert in the flower garden.
DESERT MAMBAS Dusty queer tunes from LA. TEENS IN TROUBLE Music that refracts the sounds of punk, garage and dream-pop through a prism of memory. Solo set.
HIBBS FAMILY BAND Quartet of family members combining the textures and rhythms of bluegrass and folk music with alt-rock melodic sensibilities and lyricism. (6 p.m.)
El Paso Tacos & Tequila 6–10 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
KARAOKE Every Wednesday and Friday evening.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
KARAOKE Featuring a substantial assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.
JIM COOK High-energy solo blues, classic rock and roots music. (8 a.m.)
THE NORMAL BLUEGRASS BAND New bluegrass group that formed through the monthly Athen-
FREE! (17 & under), $10–12. www. athensfolk.org
THE OLD FOLKERS Live music for a contra dance hosted by Athens Folk Musicand Dance Society. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. (show). www.facebook. com/NowhereBarAthensGA
MIDSUMMER MOTEL Atlanta band incorporating experimental
Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture
6–8 p.m. FREE! www.marigold auditorium.com
OPEN MIC Bring your instrument, a good joke or your favorite monologue. Hosted by Mayor Dodd Ferrelle and Adam Poulin.
TAXICAB VERSES Local group fronted by Jim Wilson and inspired by the traditional sounds of Ghana.
ALIEN FUNK ACADEMY Local power trio specializing in high intensity rock influenced by Vulfpeck, Umphree’s McGee and Phish.
JAMES AURELIO BAND Rootsrock project led by Jim Wilson (Los Cantares, TaxiCab Verses). Buvez
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/buvezathens BAD GURU Conscious-shifting creatives casting cosmic concerts to the collective.
NIX THE SCIENTIST Progressive rock trio based in Atlanta by way of Athens.
WAY PAST COOL Fast, catchy, melodic sing-a-long pop-punk anthems with a classic ’90s vibe. El Paso Tacos & Tequila 6–10 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
DJ SEROTONIN Emerging electronic music artist with a passion for hypnotic techno, electro and groove.
CARLY KING Singer-songwriter, music therapist and multi-instrumentalist.
SINGING CIRCLE No info available.
CATFIGHT Atlanta all-female punk trio.
tic Bluegrass Jams. (10 a.m.)
Buvez
8 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens
ROSIE AND THE RATDOGS Sludgy, hardcore, heavy-psych band based in Athens.
SWEAR JAR Local ’90s-inspired rock band exploring new horizons in punk, indie and alternative.
FISHBUG Local punk band that has recently returned to the live music scene and is influenced by bands such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers and My Chemical Romance.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
8 p.m. $12. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
WILLA MAE Knoxville indie artist with a rock-oriented sound reminiscent of ’90s grunge.
ZOE BAYANI Atlanta singer-songwriter drawing inspiration from old nostalgic Americana, folk and soft rock.
HONEYPUPPY Four-piece indie rock band self-described as a “menace to society.”
THE VASSAR BLONDES Local indie-pop four-piece. For this special series, the band will perform songs from movie soundtracks.
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
Back to School Bash. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. FREE! www.holycross athens.com
REBECCA SUNSHINE Fun, interactive music to get everyone
KENOSHA KID Instrumental adventure-jazz group centered around the rollicking compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Luca Lombardi, Seth Hendershot and various guests.
Wednesday 21
40 Watt Club
7 p.m. (doors). $15 (adv.), $20. www.40watt.com
THE PINK STONES Cosmic country band with a lighthearted, twangy charm.
T. HARDY MORRIS Singer-songwriter and guitarist plays twangy, reflective folk-rock. THE HOWDIES Old-school outlaw country act featuring vocalists Austin Darnell and Shoni Rancher. Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket. net
JOHN KINNISON Solo live-looping acoustic artist originally from Pensacola, FL. (6 p.m.)
El Paso Tacos & Tequila
6–10 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
KARAOKE Every Wednesday and Friday evening. Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. Georgia Theatre 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $20. www.georgiatheatre.com
KNOX Nashville-based indie pop artist who is inspired by artists like Fall Out Boy and Ed Sheeran. f
Horse Bitch will play on the Georgia Theatre Rooftop on Tuesday, Aug. 20.
threats & promises
The March Violets’ Crocodile Promises
PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
DARK AUGUST: Athens was blessed to become the new home of long-running post-punk/ goth band The March Violets several years ago. The group’s new album, Crocodile Promises, was just released at the end of July. These guys are a vicious guitar band—a descriptor that embraces more than sheer aggression, mind you—and just buzz straight through powerhouse numbers like “Bit The Hand,” ”Crocodile Teeth” and “Heading For The Fire.” Also of note is how economical this is. Nothing is wasted here, everything is recorded super sharply, and the whole thing just sounds wound tightly. Each song enjoys a distinct and dedicated melody, which is difficult to achieve in any genre-identified arena. They have an extensive tour starting at the end of August, but
with eight of them recorded live. The pre-order price is $12, and these will absolutely sell out. So get on it at primordialvoid.band camp.com.
GROWN UPS: The Segar Jazz Affair and Aubrey Entertainment will host a smooth jazz concert with Carol Albert and her band at the Rialto Room on Sunday, Aug. 18. Albert is a well established smooth jazz artist with multiple Billboard awards and other industry accolades under her belt.
The Segar Jazz Affair is the long-running radio program and promotions umbrella of Dwain Segar. Advance tickets are $15, and they’ll run you $20 at the door. The Rialto Room is located inside Hotel Indigo at 500 College Ave. For tickets, please head to bit. ly/SegarJazzAug18 and please note that address is case sensitive.
the closest to Athens it’ll come is Asheville, NC on Sept. 12. Find the new album at marchvioletsband.bandcamp.com, and follow along at marchvioletsband.com.
HOME AGAIN, HOME AGAIN: Former Athenian and worldwide chart topper Matthew Sweet will return to play a full-band show at the 40 Watt Club Thursday, Aug. 29. This is one of only a handful of shows he’ll play with a full band in the midst of his much larger acoustic tour. Sweet, of course, enjoyed a great run of popular records and hit singles in the 1990s. However, his career was launched right here in Athens when, as an aspiring songwriter, he teamed up with David Pierce (aka Romeo Cologne) to form Buzz of Delight, which enjoyed some limited success before Sweet signed a solo deal with Columbia Records. Advance tickets are $20 (day of show tickets are $25) and available now at 40watt.com.
CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE DEPARTMENT:
Kudos go out to Marcel Sletten and his Primordial Void label for being tapped to release the cassette tape version of the Chunklet Industries release of Sin-Gles! (Plus Live) collection of historic Limbo District music. The release runs 16 tracks,
calendar picks arts & culture
ART | THU, AUG. 15
Irina Rozovsky and Steven L. Anderson Artist Talk
SUMMER HUMMING:
The four-song release Stargaze by Sin The Moon, which came out in April, is a fine slice of indie dream pop/shoegaze. But a new collection of demos released last month peels this sound back like an onion, and I’ve been playing this on a loop pretty much since I found it. Starting with “Only A Ghost,” whoever this is eases into things with a soft melody worthy of “Walking OnThe Moon”-era Police. The next track, “Lightspeed,” is the first spectacular breakout here. It’s got a main guitar riff—not to mention auxiliary guitar and a devastating beat—that could only be loved by its forefathers of very early U2 and Joy Division. Then there’s a serviceable cover of Joy Division’s “New Dawn Fades.” Although the final three tracks are each great in their own right, the one to really focus on is “Max,” which has this guitar just slicing through the whole thing leading the beat as it goes. If these are demos, I cannot wait to hear what the final tracks will be like. Hear this now at sinthemoon.bandcamp.com, and if anyone out there knows who this is, please let me know.
HIT ME AGAIN: While we were sleeping a few days ago, a brand new one-two punch of tunes came out from emotional hardcore and, dare I say, progressive metal-ish outfit in memories (stylized in the lowercase). While both tracks, “mired” and “serenity,” will rock your face off, the trophy goes to the latter for coming out of the gate with such authentic intensity. This was produced by quickly rising producer to the harcore stars Al Daglis. Listen in over at inmemories.band camp.com. f
Lyndon House Arts Center • 6 p.m. • FREE! Two of the artists whose work is on display at Lyndon House Arts Center this summer are coming together for a discussion on their exhibitions, ideas and processes. Irina Rozovsky, a Russian-born, Athens-based photographer, is the creator behind “Traditions Highway,” a series of photos taken between 2017–2021 along Georgia State Route 15. The collection reflects on life in the rural South and how those experiences are tied to its history. It is enhanced by paintings Rozovsky collected from small shops during her travels and a text piece that combines road sign verbiage she encountered along the way. Steven L. Anderson is an Atlantabased artist whose exhibition, “Entropy Plan for the Western Fam,” is a collection of video, painting and paper artworks that reference artist Joseph Beuys’ 1974 lecture tour, which focused on the ecological and spiritual problems of the time. Anderson’s works address how these issues still affect society.
[Mary Beth Bryan]
MUSIC | THU, AUG. 15
Segar Jazz Affair with Carol Albert
Rialto Club • 5:30 p.m. (doors) • $15 (adv.), $20
sculptures, wall-based reliefs, drawings and prints focusing on varied patterns and textures. This variation acts as a sensorial mirror for the variation in the atmosphere. Enos and Machacek work and travel together to experience and then recreate natural processes like waves, volcanic activity and physical energy, which they believe raise questions about time and memory and the nature of creating still abstractions of constantly changing things. Individually, Enos is an assistant professor of art at UGA whose solo work has focused largely on the rapid urbanization of the San Diego-
Upon moving to Athens, native New Yorker Dwain Segar (also known as DJ Segar) noticed that the jazz scene could use some bolstering. To remedy this, he began playing smooth jazz as a DJ for WXAG 92.7 and started a concert series called Segar Jazz Affair, which did a 10-year run of monthly shows at The Foundry before moving to Rialto Club at Hotel Indigo. Fourteen years from its inception, the series is still a staple in Athens’ growing jazz scene. This show, which marks the 100th of the series, features Carol Albert, a jazz pianist and vocalist from Atlanta whose Billboard-charting original music has earned her millions of streams and the opportunity to tour extensively through the U.S. and Europe. Albert’s music is known for its deep thoughtfulness and rich emotion, chronicling her own personal experiences and reflections on the world around her. She will play two sets joined by her band, one at 6:30 p.m. and a second at 7:45 p.m. [MB]
ART | SAT, AUG. 17
James Enos and Jess Machacek
ATHICA • 6 p.m. • FREE!
“How to Measure an Ocean,” the new exhibition by artists James Enos and Jess Machacek, is a visualization of sea, land and climate processes that seem beyond grasp. The body of work includes large floor
Tijuana region. Machacek is a UGA Lamar Dodd School of Art graduate whose work is concerned with the ideas of familiarity and irony as they relate to nature. The exhibition is curated by Jon Swindler, a professor of art at the University of Georgia. [MB]
EVENT
| SAT, AUG.
17
FanFest
Oconee Civic Center • 10 a.m. • FREE!
The third annual FanFest is a celebration for lovers of all types of entertainment, including comics, music, film and more. For fans of literature, featured guests include Tracy Adkins, the author of the Ghosts of Athens series, and comic writer and artist Joey Weiser, whose work includes The Ride Home, Spongebob Comics and Jedi Academy. There will also be a panel discussion on The Haunting Of Eagle Tavern with filmmakers, ghosthunters and others involved with the project. Dancing events will include an aerial performance by the nonprofit Canopy, a step routine by The League of Step and Mexican folkloric dances by Tonalli Danza Folklórica Mexicana. Amongst other performers are Rebecca Sunshine, who will be playing fun and engaging music for kids, and stand-up routines from local comedians. There will also be a cosplay contest, a D&D and video/ boardgaming area, demos and activities, vendors, food and more. The event is produced by the Oconee Public Library and is open to all ages. [MB] f
James Enos and Jess Machacek
bulletin board
Deadline for getting listed in Bulletin Board is every THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the print issue that comes out the following Wednesday. Online listings are updated daily. Email calendar@flagpole.com.
AAAC QUARTERLY GRANT (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council offers $500 grants to visual and performing artists in any medium to support specific projects that enrich the culture of Athens. Rolling deadlines are Sept. 15, Dec. 15, Mar. 15 and June 15. Apply online. www. athensarts.org/support
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM
(Lyndon House Arts Center) The AIR Program provides participants with a semi-private workspace, access to the center’s seven open studios and a $250 stipend. Rising professional and studio-based artists are invited to apply. Artists will be expected to present their work in a workshop or artist talk and will be invited to take part in a group exhibition with other AIR Program alumni. Applications are reviewed Sept. 20 for residencies beginning Jan. 1 and Apr. 20 for residencies beginning July 1. www.accgov.com/lyndonhouse
ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY
(Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform to connect creatives with patrons. Visual artists, musicians, actors, writers and other creatives are encouraged to create a free listing. athenscreatives@gmail.com, www. athenscreatives.directory
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals residing in Georgia to develop an art exhibition to be on display for 6–8 weeks at the LHAC. A stipend of $1,500 is provided. www.accgov. com/9799/ArtistCurator CALL FOR COLLECTORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The LHAC’s
“Collections from our Community” series features unique collections of objects found in the closets, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. Email if interested in displaying your collection. shelby.little@ accgov.com CALL FOR EXHIBITION PROPOSALS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Artists, artist groups and curators can submit original exhibition proposals for consideration in the arts center’s gallery schedule. Arts can also submit images of their work for consideration in larger group or themed shows. Deadline Sept. 20, 11:59 p.m. www.accgov.com/6657/ Exhibition-Proposal-Form JOKERJOKERTV CALL FOR ARTISTS (Online) JOKERJOKERtv is actively accepting proposals for collaboration from visual, musical and video artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit music videos, short films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www. jokerjokertv.com/submit
MUSIC AND ARTS EDUCATION GRANTS (Athens, GA) AthFest Educates will award a total of $65,000 to music and arts education programs for local students. Applicants may request up to $5,000. Check website for requirements. Applications accepted through Aug. 24. www.athfest educates.org
OCAF HOLIDAY MARKET CALL FOR ARTISTS (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) The 30th annual holiday market is seeking original handmade works like pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass jewelry and more.The market will be held Nov. 22 from 4–8 p.m.,
art around town
ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) “How to Measure an Ocean: Enos & Machacek” features a site-specific installation of large floor sculptures and wall-based reliefs, drawings and prints by James Enos and Jess Machacek. Opening Reception Aug. 17, 6–8 p.m. Through Sept. 29.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Kurt Silvershield: Photographs” presents images taken in the heavily industrial landscape of the River Rouge and Zug Island area near Detroit between 2018 and 2021. Through Aug. 25.
CLASSIC CENTER (300 N. Thomas St.) In Classic Gallery I, “Spotlight” features works by painters William Ballard, Jaci Davis and Ella Hopkins. • In Classic Gallery II, Kristin Roberts’ “The Fables” illustrates Aesop’s Fables with detailed works that are both whimsical and dangerous.
DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) In “Trick Mirror,” Dodd professor and recent retiree Diane Edison examines through portraiture the complexities of platonic, professional, and romantic relationships. Through Sept. 26.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “A Perfect Model: Prints after Anthony van Dyck’s Portraits” presents prints that attest to Van Dyck’s lasting impact as a printmaker and portraitist. Through Dec. 1. • Organized in conjunction with the American Liszt Festival at UGA’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music in October 2024, “Saint Petersburg as Franz Liszt Saw It” features works on paper that show Russia at the time of the Hungarian composer and pianist’s visits there in the 1840s. Through Dec. 1.
GLASSCUBE@INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Zane Cochran presents “Aurora,” a sculptural interpretation of the aurora borealis using 3D geometric figures and lights.
HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) The second annual “Together We Dazzle” art show and benefit features artwork by over 20 local artists. A portion of art sales will benefit the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Closing Reception Sept. 21, 3–8 p.m.
Nov. 23–10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Nov. 24 from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. www.ocaf. com/ocaf-annual-holiday-market
OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, jewelry, fiber and woodworking. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $65/month. www. accgov.com/7350/Open-StudioMembership
PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS (Athens GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. Panels review, evaluate and select from submitted proposals for ACC-funded public art commissions. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels
STEAMROLLER PRINTMAKING
WORKSHOP (Lyndon House Arts Center) Workshop participants will carve 4-foot wooden blocks to create their own relief image on Sept. 14 and Sept. 21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Printing with the steamroller will take place during public events on Sept. 28 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Sept. 29 from 12–5 p.m. www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse
Auditions
MOUSETRAP (Winterville United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall) Winterville Players are hosting auditions for Agatha Christie’s Mousetrap. Auditions held Aug. 25–26, 6–9 p.m. Rehearsals held Tuesday–Thursday nights beginning Aug. 29. Performances held Oct. 11–12 at the Winterville Marigold
Auditorium. wintervillecampus@ gmail.com
Classes
A COURSE OF LOVE (Unity Athens Church) Learn a positive path for spiritual living based on A Course in Miracles. Wednesdays, 10–11:30 a.m. FREE! www.unity athens.com
AQUA AEROBICS (Memorial Park) In this low-impact exercise, participants will experience a variety of stretching, limbering and weight routines set to music. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 10–11 a.m. $5/session, $20/five classes. 706-613-3580
ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop)
The shop offers a range of fine art classes and workshops for adults, private classes and parties, summer camps, and art clubs for youth. Topics include acrylic, aqua oil, bookmaking, calligraphy, gouache, printmaking, and watercolor. Register online. www.kaartist.com
BLACKSMITHING CLASSES
(Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of blacksmithing classes include “Forged Grilling Tools (Aug. 16), “First Time at the Forge” (Aug. 17 or Sept. 13), “Forge a Bottle Opener” (Aug. 30), “Forge Basic Blacksmith Tongs” (Sept. 14), “Forge a Railroad Spike Knife” (Sept. 20) and “Forge a Fire Poker” (Sept. 21),. Classes held 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. www.greenhowhandmade.com/ blacksmith-classes
CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships
LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) The Window Works series presents a site-specific artwork by Atlanta artist Michael Reese that questions the perception of the Black Body against cyanotype photography popular with architectural blueprints. Through spring 2025. • “Pathways” is a solo exhibition featuring Kristy Bishop’s body of work, “Metaweaves.” Through Aug. 31. • “Traditions Highway” is a presentation of photographs by Irina Rozovsky taken between 2017–2021 along Georgia State Route 15. Artist Talk Aug. 15, 6 p.m. Through Aug. 31. • Steven L. Anderson’s “Entropy Plan for the Western Fam” was inspired by Joseph Beuys’ 1974 tour of lectures and performances meant to address ecological and spiritual problems of the time. Artist Talk Aug. 15, 6 p.m. Through Aug. 31. • Led by Martijn van Wagtendonk, the kinetic sculpture “Cupola: A Collaboration” was inspired by Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Artist Talk Aug. 22, 6 p.m. Through Aug. 31. • “Celestial Bodies” is a group exhibition exploring the relationship between the heavens and the earth. Through Aug. 31. • “Morphogenesis” spotlights Wilay Méndez Páez, an Afro-Cuban artist based in Atlanta whose small metal sculptures are made from discarded car parts. Through Aug. 31. • Collections from the Community presents Mac Little’s collection of flying discs. Through Aug. 31. • Amiri Farris’ paintings and collages blur the lines between contemporary cultures and pop traditions while delving into themes of history, culture, perception and time. Through Oct. 5. • “Scissors, Paper, Art” is an exhibition of collaged works by Jack Burke and Claire Clements inspired by nature. Through Oct. 5. MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) The 2024 Annual Members Exhibition, “It Figures,” features approximately 40 works by 20 artists. Through Aug. 31.
MASON-SCHARFENSTEIN MUSEUM OF ART (567 Georgia St., Demorest)
Toccoa-based artist Normando Ismay shares recent sculptures made from recycled aluminum. Through Sept. 7.
THE NEST (523 Prince Ave.) Susan Pelham’s collages are inspired by Magic Realism, Surrealism, nursery rhymes, fables and more. Through Sept. 14. PORCELAIN AND DECORATIVE ARTS MUSEUM (2450 S. Milledge Ave.)
Two new collections celebrating the connection between art and nature include a complete Jasperware tea set from Wedgewood in England and a
COOKING CLASSES (Athens Cooks)
“Knife Skills and Sharpening” will be held Aug. 14, 6–8 p.m. $75.
“Basics of Pasta Making” will be held Aug. 21, 6–9 p.m. $103. “Roman Holiday” will be held Aug. 22, 6–8 p.m. $103. “Down-home Crab Cake Dinner” will be held Aug. 28, 6–8 p.m. $103. “Thinking Thai: Tom Yum + Cashew Chicken Edition” will be held Aug. 29, 6–8 p.m. $103. Register online. www. athenscooks.com
PÉTANQUE CLUB OF ATHENS (5 Alumni Dr.) Learn to play Pétanque. RSVP for a free Wednesday introduction. athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION
TRAINING (Nuçi’s Space) Nuçi’s hosts free monthly QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention sessions for anyone interested, not just mental health professionals. Nuçi’s also offers free training for businesses and organizations. qpr@nuci.org, www.nuci.org/qpr
SALSA CLASSES (Multiple Locations) UGA Salsa Club hosts “Level 1: Foundational Movements & Partner Work” for students with no prior dancing experience. No partner required. Held in Adinkra Hall (Memorial Hall 407). Sundays, Aug. 18–Sept. 29, 3–3:45 p.m. No class Sept. 15. FREE! www.uga salsaclub.com TIMBAthens hosts “Level 2: Partner Work & Foundations of Rueda I” for students who want to learn Cuban style. Held at YWCO Sundays, Aug. 18–Sept. 29, 4:30–5:25 p.m. $10/class. www. timbathens.com
SPANISH CLASSES (Emmanuel Episcopal Church) Join Casa de Amistad for a 12-week Spanish class. Wednesdays beginning Aug. 21 or Thursdays beginning Aug. 22, 6:30–8 p.m. $360. www.athens amistad.com
TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS
CLASSES (Live Oak Martial Arts) Traditional and modern-style Taekwondo, self-defense, grappling and weapons classes are offered for all ages. Classes in Jodo, the art of the Japanese staff and sword, are held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 p.m. Visit the website for a full schedule. liveo-
WHISKY 101 (Tapped Athens Wine Tasting Market) “Whisky 101: A Tour of Scotland” examines the political, geographical and cultural background of whisky as a whole in Scotland, as well as region-toregion and distillery-to-distillery. Aug. 14, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11 & Dec. 18, 7–9 p.m. $150. www.leagueofgoodspirits.com
YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Revolution is a multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering yoga and therapy with an emphasis on traumainformed practices. Check website for upcoming classes and programs. www.revolutiontherapyand yoga.com
YOGA CLASSES (Let It Be Yoga Studio, Watkinsville) Classes are offered in Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini, beginner, gentle and other styles. Check online calendar for weekly offerings. www.letitbeyoga.org
YOGA CLASSES (Shakti Yoga Athens) This body-neutral and traumainformed space in Normaltown offers heated and unheated classes. Classes are offered in Power Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Yin and Restorative Yoga. New student offer: four weeks of unlimited yoga for $40. shakti yogaathens.com
Help Out
ACC ANIMAL SERVICES ENRICHMENT DRIVE (Animal Services Adoption Center) Donate items like KONG dog toys, snuffle mats, lick mats, Nylabones, peanut butter, catnip and toilet paper rolls through Aug. 31. www.accgov.com/animal services
MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUNTEERS (Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living) Seeking volunteers to assist a nonprofit agency that serves individuals living with disabilities throughout a 10-country area of Northeastern Georgia. Contact Daniel Myers at 706-850-4025 or dmyers@multiplechoices.us SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Sandy Creek Nature Center, Inc., is seeking new members for its
OCONEE LIBRARY (1925 Electric Ave., Watkinsville) Members of the Athens Art Association share their work. Through August.
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave) “Tiny Wonders” presents macro photography of local plants, insects and other tiny creatures by Heather Larkin, Don Hunter, Diego Huet, Bill Sheehan, Sandy Shaul and Rosemary Woodel. Aug. 18–Nov. 12.
STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Queer Perspectives” is a juried exhibition featuring work by 13 Georgiabased artists including Yousef Bousheri, Perrine Gaudry, Rial Rye, Ezra Witkowski andClint Zeagler. Through Jan. 4.
TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Multi-media artist Kelsey Wishik presents “Multiplicity,” a collection of abstracted representations of nature inspired by both outer and inner worlds. Opening Reception Aug. 15, 6–9 p.m. Closing Reception Aug. 29, 5–8 p.m.
UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.) In “Low Anchored Cloud/Spring Hoax,” Joseph Peragine, director of the Lamar Dodd School of Art at UGA, explores themes of life and death through two distinct bodies of work. Artist Reception Aug. 20, 5 p.m. Currently on view through Dec. 21.
UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Athens Potluck” revisits Jason Thrasher’s 2017 book that includes portraits of 33 musicians at home or in the studio.The exhibition includes photographs, stories, loaned items from the featured musicians and items from the music collections of the Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Curator Talk Sept. 21, 3 p.m. Through December.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS CLEMENTS
GALLERY (780 Timothy Rd.) “The Claire and Robert Clements Summer Invitational” features UUFA artists as well as artists who have shown or are scheduled to show in the gallery. Through Sept. 29.
WINTERVILLE CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY (371 N. Church St., Winterville) “New Beginnings” is a group exhibition held in celebration of the center’s grand opening. Through Aug. 16. • Wildlife photographer Mike Ramy presents “An Intimate Look at Nature.” Through Aug. 16.
board of directors. Brochures and applications are available online. scncinc@gmail.com, www.sandy creeknaturecenterinc.org/boardmembers
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Morton Theatre Corporation) The Morton Theatre Corporation is seeking new members for its board of directors and volunteers. The application is available online. board@morton theatre.com, www.mortontheatre. com/join-the-board
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. The application is available online. the biggervisionshelter@gmail.com; www.bvoa.org/boardmember
Kidstuff
ATHENS FOREST KINDERGARTEN
(Sandy Creek Park) Now enrolling children ages 3–6. AFK is a cooperative preschool that aims to develop initiative, persistence, interdependence, and empathy. www.athensforestkindergarten.org
BATON (Bishop Park) Classic City Majorettes offer instruction in dance-twirling, strutting, marching technique and more. Students have opportunities to participate in community performances. For ages 5–17. Tuesdays, Sept. 10–Nov. 12. $65 (ACC residents), $97.50 (nonresidents). www.accgov.com/myrec
BRELLA ACTIVITIES (‘BRELLA STUDIO) After-school art lessons for ages 6–11 include drawing and mixed media activities and are held Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Family Playgroups are for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Check website for descriptions and meeting times. www.brellastudio.com/events
CREATIVE OPPORTUNITIES (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Treehouse offers a variety of art-centric activities for children, such as “Crafty Maker Mondays,” “Storytime with Mr. Doodles,” “Digital Art Designer,” “Baby Artists,” “Toddler Process Art,” “Creative Playtime,” “Saturday Craft” and more. Check website for current schedule. www.treehouse kidandcraft.com
GROUPS AT REBLOSSOM
(ReBlossom) A variety of classes, playgroups and support groups are offered for parents and young children. Topics include birth and breastfeeding, prenatal and parent-baby yoga, instrument play, maternal mental health and more. Check website for a schedule. www. reblossomathens.com
LIBRARY STORYTIMES (ACC Library) Storytime for preschool aged children and their caregivers is offered every Tuesday and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. www.athens library.org
MAYOR’S YOUTH COUNCIL
(Athens, GA) Now accepting applications for a program designed to encourage effective youth engagement and to provide an opportunity for youth voices to communicate directly with local leadership. Participants are expected to attend monthly meetings and contribute five hours a week to the council. For students in grades 10–12. Deadline Aug. 18, 11:59 p.m. www.accgov. com/youthcouncil
Support Groups
BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP
(St. Mary’s Hospital, 5th Floor Therapy Room) This support group for survivors of traumatic head injury, their families, friends
and caregivers offers friendship, information about resources and opportunities for advocacy. Every third Monday, 4:30–6 p.m. Contact Floretta Johnson, 706-353-1892, floretta.johnson@stmarysathens.
org NEW PARENTS AND INFANT FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP (BYL Family Resource Center) Come as you are for community, snacks and feeding advice from professionals. Babies and children of all ages are welcome. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.byyourleave.org
MINDFULNESS & CRAFTS GROUP
THERAPY (Bridge Family Therapy) Ages 14–18 can participate in a four-week therapy group teaching mindfulness techniques through crafts. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Aug. 20–Sept. 12, 4:30-6 p.m. $25/session. sam@bridgefamily therapy.com
POLYAMORY SUPPORT GROUP (Revolution Therapy and Yoga)
This open support group for adults practicing or considering polyamory or nonmonogamy discusses navigating jealousy, polysaturation, relationships with metamours and polyamorous parenting. Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.com
PROJECT SAFE (Family Protection Center) Project Safe hosts a support group for survivors of domestic violence. Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. www. project-safe.org
RECREATE JOY (Sunny Days Therapeutics) Nuçi’s Space hosts a recreational therapy support group. Improve coping skills and self esteem while reducing depression and anxiety through adaptive yoga, games and leisure education. Sixweek sessions. Wednesdays, 5–6 p.m. tinyurl.com/rnvuhesa
RECOVERY DHARMA (Athens Addiction Recovery Center) This peer-led support group offers a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from any addiction. Visit the website for details. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.athensrecoverydharma.org
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE (Nuçi’s Space) SOS is a support group for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide. Meets the third Wednesday of every month, 5:30–7:30 p.m. www.nuci.org
Word on the Street
BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations are located across Athens with tools, an air pump and a QR code for quick guides on basic bike repairs. Visit the website for participating locations. www.accgov. com/10584/Bike-Repair-Stations
DIAMOND HILL FARM CSA (Athentic Brewing Co.) The Community Supported Agriculture program offers a variety of seasonal vegetables, fruits and/or flowers directly to consumers each week. Check website for weekly pickup locations, home delivery details and to register. $15 (flower share), $25–35 (farm box). www.diamondhillfarm athens.com
FALL PROGRAM REGISTRATION (Athens, GA) The Leisure Services Department offers a diverse selection of activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events for both adults and children. Now registering. www.accgov.com/myrec
FASHION DEEP DIVE (Oconee Library) The library will run fashionthemed programs in September and October. Seeking local designers and models to participate in a finale fashion show on Oct. 26, as well as
local experts to teach workshops in fashion design basics, cosmetics, fashion sketching or costume design. Contact James Mitchell, jmitchell@athenslibrary.org
FREE DENTISTRY DAY (Timothy Road Dental Care) Residents in Athens and surrounding areas can receive free cleanings, fillings or extractions on Sept. 7. No insurance or appointment necessary. First come, first served. www.timothy roaddentalcare.com
LEISURE SERVICES MASTER
PLAN (Athens, GA) The ACC Leisure Services Department is in the process of developing a new comprehensive master plan. Share your thoughts online or in person. Check website for pop-up events. www. accgov.com/activateathens
LITTER LEAGUE (Athens, GA) Any individual who tracks litter using the Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful + UGA list on the Debris Tracker app or picks up litter and reports their clean-up between now and Aug. 15 can win prizes. www. accgov.com/litterindex
RABBIT BOX (VFW Post 2872) The 13th season of Rabbit Box is seeking storytellers to share true short tales. Upcoming themes include “Birth of a Parent” (Sept. 24), “Scared Stiff” (Oct. 2) and “Bad Advice” (Nov. 19). Pitch your story idea online. rabbitbox.org/tell
RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Weekly events include Open Mic (Tuesdays, 7–11 p.m.), Acoustic Song Circle (Thursdays, 7–11 p.m.) and Drumming and Song Circle (Sundays, 3–5 p.m.). Wednesday Yoga (5 p.m.) is followed by Meditation and Integration (6 p.m.). Events are free or donation based. www.rabbitholestudios.org/ calendar
SEEKING MUSIC (Athens, GA) Seeking music submissions for the third season of “View Finders,” a locally produced TV series that will air on national PBS. Music can vary from electronic, ambient, hip hop, folk, Americana, rock, country, blues, classical and beyond. Contact for submission form. chrisgreer photography@gmail.com, www. viewfindersontv.com
SEEKING POLL WORKERS (Athens, GA) The Elections Department is seeking residents to serve as poll workers for the Nov. 5 general election. www.accgov.com/pollworker
SEVENTH GENERATION (Healing Path Farm) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts gatherings on Sundays at 11 a.m., Men’s Group on Tuesdays at 6 p.m., and Women’s Circle every second and fourth Wednesday at 6 p.m. www.seventhgeneration nativeamericanchurch.org
SPLASH PAD (Walker Park) The splash pad will remain open on weekends, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. through Sept. 2. $1/person. 706613-3589
WALK INTO WELLNESS (Dudley Park Picnic Pavilion) Get moving and meet others on a path to wellness. Each walk will focus on a different health topic. Pre-registration required. For ages 8 & up. Aug, 17, 24 & 31, 10–11 a.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/myrec
VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA)
Brad Staples (of the Athens GA Live Music crew) is seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC or DVDs to digitize and archive on his YouTube channel, vhsordie (@vhsordie3030). Original recordings will be returned, and credits and dates will be included in the online video description. Digitization services are free. Contact for details and to coordinate shipping. bradley.staples88@gmail.com f
FREE PERFORMANCE - NO TICKETS REQUIRED
the FACULTY CHAMBER RECITAL
With special guest Kenn Wagner, violin (pictured) Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
Help us welcome James Kim, assistant professor of cello, in his first UGA performance!
Tuesday, August 27 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Hall | UGA Performing Arts Center
TICKETED PERFORMANCE $20; $3 with UGA student ID
A collection of pieces written by Gil Evans, Gerry Mulligan, Miles Davis and John Lewis from 194850, that was expanding past the “Be-Bop” hard driving small group Jazz music of the time. Featuring UGA Music Faculty Jazz Ensemble. BIRTH OF THE COOL (encore)
Thursday, August 29 at 7:30 p.m. Hodgson Hall | UGA Performing Arts Center
UGA Performing Arts Center: 230 River Road, Athens, GA 30602
Friends Appreciation Month Kick-Off
Back to School Checklist
DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN VACCINATE AGAINST CANCER?
What is HPV?
Sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours SPF 30+)
Sunglasses (eyes can get sunburned too)
SPF Chapstick (lips can get sunburned too)
Pick-up prescriptions; stop by pharmacy
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus affecting all genders. It is spread through skin-to-skin contact, especially during close contact activities like sports or dancing, or through shared surfaces like swimming pools. HPV is not only spread through sexual activity.
Why should i vaccinate?
BUNGEE CLASSES!
A non-profit community arts center offering instruction in aerial dance, movement education, and performance arts camps Classes Lessons Workshops PerformaNces for all ages & abilities in: trapeze lyra rope fabrics slings pole flying pole conditioning aerial sampler and more!
160 Tracy Street, Suite 6, Athens, GA 30601 info@canopystudio.org · 706-549-8501 · canopystudio.org
HPV vaccination (it's cancer prevention!)
Flu shot (flu season is October - April)
COVID- 19 vaccination
Why is the HPV vaccine is important HPV can lead to other cancers down the road, such as cervical, throat, and genital cancers. Giving your child the HPV vaccine helps to protect them before exposure to the virus.
Exposure to the virus can occur at any age, because you are engaging in competitive sports, sharing spaces like locker rooms, and are in very close contact with others. HPV vaccination is important for everyone regardless of gender to protect against HPV-related cancers and illnesses, and it’s safe & effective,
it is best to receive two doses of the vaccine to between the ages 9-14 , but you can receive three doses for ages 15- 45 . but it is much more effective when taken earlier. When am I eligible for the HPV vaccine?
Athens Film Festival
CELEBRATING THE LOCAL FILM INDUSTRY AND GEORGIA FILMMAKERS
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Filmmakers have always been a part of Athens’ creative culture, and the opening of Athena Studios has brought a lot of attention and growth to the local film industry. Although it’s not the first of its kind, the inaugural Athens Film Festival is taking place Aug. 15–17 to celebrate the film community and anchor Athens as a contender in the industry.
The Athens Film Festival’s tagline mission is “to strengthen and embolden the local film community by bringing together top filmmakers, cinephiles and enthusiasts.” In order to achieve this, more than 80 films from around the world will be screened with an emphasis on Georgia creators, along with post-screening discussions, a workshop and networking events.
and eight-time Southeast Emmy Awardwinning filmmaker Lauren Musgrove, the plot follows an anxiety-ridden high school senior who vividly dreams about an ugly Christmas sweater as she attempts to embrace her future.
During Thursday evening’s comedy segment at The Globe, the comedy short films screening will be preceded by a live comedy showcase featuring local standup performers. Friday afternoon there will be a crowdfunding and crowdsourcing workshop held at 1 p.m. at Ciné. Marty Lang, director of UGA’s MFA program in film, television and digital media, and Aaron Strand, local writer and director who recently completed production on Withdrawal, will lead the workshop.
All screenings will take place across four downtown venues: Ciné, Flicker Theatre & Bar, The Globe and the Morton Theatre. Tickets are available on an individual screening basis ($8–12) or as one-day, full screening or all-access passes ($25–60).
The festival will kick off with the Film Fest Welcome and Happy Hour Celebration at 5 p.m. on Thursday at Ciné and close with a party featuring DJ Mahogany Saturday night at Little Kings Shuffle Club, after an awards ceremony at Ciné. Throughout the weekend there will be happy hours and hangouts for attendees to take a break from the screenings and mingle. The screening blocks are categorized as Features, Narrative Shorts, Women in Film, World Class Animation, Horror Shorts, Laugh Your ATH Off Comedy, Reel Peaches Georgia Shorts, Student Films and Documentary.
“We have made a concentrated effort to involve all aspects of the Athens film community in the festival,” says Lora Hogan, Athens Film Festival head of marketing and public relations. “We included films by UGA professors, MFA graduates, UGA graduates, UGA undergrads, UNG alums, Athens Academy alumni, local Athenians and more. All of our blocks contain at least one Georgia film—most of those films are from filmmakers right here in Athens.”
The opening night screening is a Southern premiere of Ugly Sweater at 7:15 p.m. at Ciné. Directed by UGA professor
Summer Restaurant Roundup
SAYING HELLO, GOODBYE IN THE FOODIE WORLD
By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com
The Flagpole Guide to Athens was up to date when it went to press, and it remains the only truly comprehensive guide to our town, but things have already changed. Here’s some of what you missed if you were out of town from May through now, or maybe just checked out.
American Public House, a sort of coffee house/brewery/bar/restaurant, both opened and closed on Mitchell Bridge Road, in a building that’s never had a great reputation for longtime tenants. Signs and an Instagram account popped up for Traveling Chick’n, in the convenience store where Mitchell Bridge, Timothy Road and Atlanta Highway come together, and then, just as quickly, it was gone.
in Normaltown). Near there, the swanky Rivet House boutique hotel opened in the Southern Mill complex, off Oneta Street, complete with its own restaurant, Osteria Olio
In Five Points, Bitty & Beau’s, the coffee shop staffed by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, closed, and ZZ & Simone’s has begun expanding into the space. In Beechwood, a location of Playa Bowls opened, and Jason’s Deli closed to make way for a First Watch. The former Hardee’s in front of Target is under con-
The Athens Film Festival’s core team— Chuck Griffin, director; Sam Johnson, co-director; Anthony Zuniga, head of event services; Patrick Crawford, head of sales; and Hogan—all have professional or personal ties to the film and theater community. As such, they’re building from the film festival history already within Athens.
“We are very much aware of the past film festivals and are grateful for their support. We have worked closely with Danielle and Film Athens [of the] Kudzu Film Festival, and she has been invaluable with advice.
Pamela [Kohn] at Ciné is one of our presenting sponsors, and without her keen wisdom from past film festivals, this event would not be what it is today. We have also strived to learn from the past and, whereas earlier film festivals relied heavily on one or two individuals, we are trying to involve the greater community to ensure that we can continue well into the future. We can’t wait for the 50th anniversary of the Athens Film Festival in 2074,” says Hogan.
For the full three-day schedule and to purchase tickets, visit athensfilm.com. f
WHO: Athens Film Festival WHEN: Aug . 15–17
WHERE: Ciné, Flicker Theatre & Bar, The Globe, Morton Theatre HOW MUCH: $25–60
Downtown, Utage gave up the ghost. Across the street, Ahi Hibachi and Poke and Athens Wok are staying open for now as the hotel just behind them renovates under new ownership, but it’s possible the tenants will have to vacate post-renovation. Down the block, the downtown location of Amici closed (the Oconee County one remains open). Cravings, Philanthropy Fresh and the Warehouse, all on the same two-block stretch on Broad Street between Thomas and Jackson streets, are no more. Blenderz, a smoothie/açai bowl chain in The Mark, the massive apartment complex right next to downtown, closed just before the summer and isn’t coming back, but the complex applied for a permit to construct a food hall on what looks like its Hickory Street side. Maybe that’ll result in any sort of consistent food options in a location that has claimed many a business.
Things opened downtown, too, with Happy Lemon, a bubble tea place, opening in the William apartments on Newton and bb.q Chicken, a Korean chain, soon to follow. Poindexter Coffee in the Graduate Hotel became Iron Works Coffee in Hotel Abacus, with a rebrand. Bento Stop opened, with quick-service Korean food, at the base of the Washington Street parking deck. Kilwins, a franchise confectionery making chocolates, fudge, caramel apples and more, opened just this week near College Square on East Broad Street. Munch Hut added Indian food, then closed for renovations that aren’t completed yet. Is Athens Bagel Co. open yet? Nope. It’s possible Lucy will yank the football away again, but it does sound like things are getting close there.
Near downtown, Kenny Nguyen’s Pretty Boy is getting very close to opening in the Bottleworks and should provide another real-deal dining option. Normaltown Brewing, which was in the Tracy Street warehouses (not in Normaltown), has closed that location in preparation for a move to Barber Street, where it will occupy the former Jittery Joe’s Roaster (also not
struction to become a Metro Diner Red Lobster closed, and San Angel Cocina and Cantina opened on the spot of what had been an Applebee’s and is now much nicer. The former Lickin’ Chicken, on Oak Street near downtown, has been demolished so that the next Cafe Racer can take its place, eventually.
Taqueria Morros, on Danielsville Road, has closed, which is a bummer, but Mitti Desi Cuisine opened on South Milledge, next to Achachi Market, offering a big menu of Indian food. Bon de Paris, on the Eastside, remains closed despite a banner promising that it would reopen that was installed months ago. Taqueria los Primos, on Highway 441 South, has new owners and a new name (La Laguna Express) but what looks to be a fairly similar menu. Two more Whataburgers (one in front of the Eastside Lowe’s, one on Highway 29 near the Space Kroger) have joined us.
Watkinsville got its own location of Baddies, at the former Crab Hut; a location of Crawford’s G Brand BBQ; a location of Winghouse Grill once again (in what had been Doughby’s); and Killer Crust Pizza Co., across from the University 16 movie theater and run by some folks who had been at Doughby’s. Small Cakes, a cupcake franchise, is open in Bogart. And the Oak Grove area continues to develop, with its own bubble tea franchise (Shake Tea) newly opened and a restaurant called Los Reyes that is not the same as the Los Reyes on Highway 29 North due to open soon. Between that and the La Parrilla set to open in Beechwood (unconnected to Athens’ longtime Taqueria La Parrilla), things are about to get considerably more confusing for families trying to meet up at a Mexican restaurant. f
Osteria Olio
ANDREW
THOMAS LEE
(l-r) Chuck Griffin, Patrick Crawford, Lora Hogan, Sam Johnson, Anthony Zuniga
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