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OUTDOOR SCREENING
“THE BRAIN FROM PLANET AROUS”
District Attorney Debate
PLUS, TRASH PICKUP FRANCHISING AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued and Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com
District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez urged a large audience at a candidate forum last week to give her a second term so she can continue reforming the local criminal justice system, while challenger Kalki Yalamanchili argued that she has mismanaged the office, and that he has the experience to get it back on track.
Staffing has been a major issue for Gonzalez, who has seen several waves of prosecutors leave the Western Circuit since she took office in 2021. “We don’t pay enough,” Gonzalez said. In addition, she blamed the exodus on attorneys wanting to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic and on the sheer number of vacancies statewide
Elected alongside a number of other progressive DAs in 2020—the year of the George Floyd protests and widespread anger about inequities in the system— Gonzalez has since come under criticism for an understaffed office and a number of high-profile missteps. Meanwhile, she cast Yalamanchili—a defense attorney and former prosecutor who’s running as an independent—as a return to the past. Yalamanchili previously worked for Ken Mauldin, a more conventional Democratic DA who retired in 2020. “My community told me they wanted something different,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez eliminated one of Mauldin’s top deputies in November 2020, then narrowly defeated another in a runoff. “We knew pushback would be swift,” Gonzalez said. “We didn’t know it would be this nasty or this hostile.”
Yalamanchili, for his part, was cordial toward Gonzalez during the Oct. 15 forum, held at Hill Chapel Baptist Church, though he did level some pointed criticisms at her record and outspoken political stances. “I believe the district attorney’s office is a place for public service, not a place for politics,” he said.
He called the idea that a candidate cannot support reform and be a “law and order” candidate, as Gonzalez put it, “a false dichotomy.” Yalamanchili said he would seek to address the root problems of crime by utilizing accountability courts for addiction and mental health issues while also securing convictions for serious violent felonies like murder and sexual assault. He described his philosophy as, “Do the right thing the right way regardless of whether anyone is watching.”
Talmadge Drive. The latter will be broadcast on WGAU 1340 AM. [Blake Aued]
Commission Considers Trash Hauling Overhaul
The Athens-Clarke County Commission is considering a franchising proposal that would completely reshape how trash is collected in some parts of Athens, limiting consumer choice but improving efficiency and potentially lowering costs.
In the proposal, the county outside of the old city limits (the “urban services district” where ACC handles trash and recycling pickup) would be divided into five service zones with a single trash hauler permitted to operate in each. Every resident would be required to pay for trash service with the hauler operating in their zone.
Currently, the county allows residents in the “general services district” to choose between five private haulers or to haul their own trash to the landfill. If the commission decides to change to a franchising system, many residents living outside the Loop would need to switch their trash service to whichever company gains the franchising rights for the service zone they live in. Additionally, self-haulers would be required to pay for trash service for the first time.
The ACC Solid Waste Department would continue hauling trash and recycling in the city center, so residents living there would not be affected by this proposal.
problem in Athens. ACC staff estimate that Athens taxpayers spend at least $900,000 a year cleaning up after people who dump their trash illegally.
But not everyone is excited about this proposal. Former commissioner Andy Herod spoke up to oppose trash utility franchising during public comment at last week’s agenda-setting meeting.
“I highly doubt that creating a monopoly in different parts of the county for a particular hauler is going to reduce prices,” Herod said. “You’re not proposing to bring city trash out to the old county. Essentially what you’re saying is, ‘We’re not going to provide a service for you, but we’re going to tell you which hauler you can and cannot use,’ and I don’t think that’s fair.”
The reason why ACC staff aren’t suggesting expanding city trash collection across the entire county is that it would be prohibitively expensive in the short term without some way to fund the capital expense of purchasing a new fleet of garbage trucks.
The idea to switch to a franchising system for trash collection has been circulating in Athens for decades, but commissioners have never acted on it. The closest they came was in 2012, when the local government limited the number of trash haulers and required them to obtain a permit to operate.
after 14 new DAs were elected in Georgia four years ago, leading to competition for new hires.
According to Gonzalez, currently there are only two ADA vacancies on her staff. But Yalamanchili said that seven of eight recent hires have no criminal litigation experience, and four are “apprentices” who have not yet passed the bar. Historically, filling ADA positions has been easy because “people love Athens,” he said, adding that he has spoken to at least a dozen experienced prosecutors who would be willing to work for him if he won. He also said he would renew a partnership with the UGA law school, where he has taught a class the past three years, to recruit new prosecutors.
When Yalamanchili pointed to situations where the DA’s office failed to secure a conviction due to errors like failing to contact victims or letting the statute of limitations expire, Gonzalez in some cases blamed police for not providing enough evidence or the judges who make the final decision. Yalamanchili said her office has lost six of its past seven jury trials, and four did not even make it to the jury because they were dismissed. He said he would establish better relationships with police.
Gonzalez reiterated her pledge not to prosecute abortions or seek the death penalty, while Yalamanchil declined to make any blanket statements, saying that doing so would invite the state to come in and take away those cases from the local DA’s office.
At least two more forums are scheduled—one Monday, Oct. 21 at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church and another Tuesday, Oct. 22 at the Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Services Building auditorium on
Solid Waste staff believe that franchising would provide an enhanced level of service at a reduced cost. The proposal would also allow more control over private haulers, which could help ensure they adhere to a standard level of customer service. Furthermore, it’s likely franchising would reduce the traffic, noise, emissions and road wear that can come from having multiple heavy trucks operating on the same roads.
Finally, ACC staff believe that requiring all residents to have trash pickup will help reduce illegal dumping, which is a big
Many commissioners had concerns about franchising, including Commissioner Mike Hamby, who suggested the idea should be killed in committee. “I haven’t yet heard a good rationale for us to do this,” Hamby said. “We need to move on from this. Send it back to committee… and just not let us see it again. [That] would be a really nice thing on your part. Put it in whatever trash can you want to.”
In disagreement, Commissioner Patrick Davenport, who chairs the ACC Solid Waste Advisory Commission, urged his colleagues to act on the measure. He said the current system is inefficient and creates both road damage and noise problems for residents. He also described how allowing people to haul their own trash can create a problem of service theft for local businesses, who often end up having to pay to haul trash that they don’t generate.
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Kalki Yalamanchili and Deborah Gonzalez
‘We’ve Got This’ ATHENS POLL WORKERS
PREPARE FOR ELECTION DAY
By C.J. Bartunek news@flagpole.com
All eyes are on Georgia elections this year—from the New York Times and Washington Post to party-appointed poll watchers to ordinary citizens wanting to make sure their votes will count. Much of the drama has centered on the newly reorganized Georgia State Election Board, where Trump-supporting appointees have defied Georgia’s secretary of state, attorney general and other officials by introducing rule changes that critics say could delay certification of election results and sow disorder. On top of that, more than 10 lawsuits have been filed in 2024, challenging various aspects of the state’s election process and alleging that counties’ voter rolls are filled with ineligible names.
Athens-Clarke County’s election workers are ready for what some consider the election of a lifetime. More than 200 have been hired to work the polls on Nov. 5, with 55 of them working during advance voting Oct. 15–Nov. 1.
Turnout is expected to be high. Charlotte Sosebee, ACC’s director of elections and voter registration, says that excitement around this election is among the highest she has seen in her thirty-plus years working in elections and voter registration. “Maybe it’s because it’s Georgia and people know it will play a major factor in who wins or loses,” she says. The first day of advance voting broke records across the state, including in Athens-Clarke County, where more than twice as many people voted as on the first day of voting for the 2020 general election.
ACC is in experienced hands. In September, Sosebee was one of two inductees into the National Association of Election Officials’ Hall of Fame at the organization’s annual conference in Detroit. Other ACC elections staff members received a People’s Choice award for a paper they presented on the Election Night process. “Athens-Clarke County is known in the United States,” Sosebee says with pride. “I feel like we’ve got this,” she says of the 2024 election.
Gearing Up
among other preparations for the upcoming vote. Now the office is processing absentee and overseas and military votes as they come in.
Sosebee and other ACC officials were surprised in September when ACC was named as one of eight Georgia counties whose election boards are being investigated by the State Election Board for allegedly refusing challenges to voter registrations. In December 2020, the ACC Board of Elections received a list of almost 5,000 potential challenges from Texas-based conservative group True the Vote, but at that time, that type of mass challenge was not allowed under Georgia law. Sosebee says that, since then, there have been just two challenges, each focused on an individual voter’s registration. In
Even experienced poll workers must go through training for every election cycle. At poll manager training sessions, trainees learn about election law, emergency preparedness and customer service best practices. They roleplay de-escalating conflicts and do a scavenger hunt through a simulated polling place looking for problems,
both cases, investigations and hearings took place, and the challenges were ruled valid. No challenges have been refused.
All of Sosebee and her colleagues’ activities are guided by Georgia Code Title 21, a tome of hundreds of pages to which Sosebee has added colored, labeled bookmarks. “It’s my work bible,” she says with a laugh. “I write it upon the tablet of my heart. It is a lamp unto my feet.”
As county residents anxiously read and hear of challenges to voter registration, staffers at the downtown elections office field many calls from people wanting to confirm their registration. The elections office maintains voter rolls year-round, removing people who have moved, been convicted of felonies or died. In September, workers began testing the voting machines,
As elections director, she must know the law’s intricacies inside and out. At the other end of the spectrum, Election Day “runners” who help transport materials need only understand fundamentals, especially from the section Sosebee calls the “DO NOTS”: DO NOT alter or destroy ballots, intimidate voters, accept or receive gifts, and so on.
such as confusing signage and unattended ballot cards.
Role playing can be a chance for humor, even though poll managers take their work very seriously. “You’re going to put my ballot in a shredder,” one manager repeatedly insisted (in character) at a training earlier this year, while another calmly explained that all votes are counted. Some poll managers also train in first-aid and CPR; some election workers learn to administer Narcan.
Mark Brown, a recently retired professor of entomology at UGA and an election worker since 2020, says that as a scientist he appreciates how comprehensively the rules and regulations for any given situation are laid out, step by step. “From the get-go, I have been impressed by how the
folks who are in the elections office try to organize it and make it as instructive and as easy as it can be,” he says.
Chuck Horne, who is now retired from a career in IT, says that becoming a poll worker has made him much more confident in Georgia’s election security. While theoretically technology could be tampered with, when he saw all the protocols and understood how many different individuals, precincts and even counties would have to coordinate with each other for widespread fraud to occur, he came to see the process as trustworthy.
Many people see election work as a way to give back. Mother and daughter Alva and Alicia Rawles initially assumed election workers were unpaid volunteers, but were still eager to help out. Now Alicia is an experienced poll manager and Alva works in the elections office processing absentee ballots. The Rawleses are one of several family groups or couples who work elections together. “I’m very proud that she wants to do this, and she’s good at it,” Alva says of her daughter. In turn, Alicia hopes her adult son will get involved in elections one day, too, though his work schedule makes that tough.
The Big Day and Beyond
On Election Day, precinct managers will begin calling the office at 6 a.m. as they confirm their arrival and report any issues. Poll workers prep the areas the day before, setting up tables and chairs and stanchions to direct traffic, but that morning they will attend to final details, place “Vote Here” signs outside, don their red aprons and get sworn in. ACC will have 24 polling locations on Nov. 5, with residents casting votes at schools, churches, a fire station, the tennis center and even the Athens-Ben Epps airport.
Before the election, the poll pads are programmed with voter registration information and all possible combinations of races, since voters in the same precinct may be assigned to different districts for state legislature, county commission, school board or other races. When a voter checks in, their combination is transferred to a ballot card so that they will see only the relevant races. Their name will not be associated with
Jack Bush (left) and Mark Brown role-play a scenario with a difficult voter during a poll manager training at the Athens-Clarke County Facilities and Landscape Management Building on Lexington Road on Feb. 8 while trainer Rene Russo looks on.
Mother Alva (right) and daughter Alicia Rawles are both poll workers. C.J.
C.J.
their choices, though the system will record that they received a ballot card. If the poll worker sees that someone has been sent an absentee ballot but has not returned it, the voter must sign an affidavit promising not to vote twice. When absentee ballots are tabulated, officials will confirm that those voters did not vote more than once.
The pervasive harassment and threats that Fulton County election workers Shaye Moss and Ruby Freeman received when conspiracy theorists targeted them after the 2020 election casts a shadow over Georgia elections, but so far no serious incidents have occurred in Athens-Clarke County. Sometimes voters become disgruntled, but election workers have been able to defuse the situation. Still, workers remain on alert, given the intensity of rhetoric around the election.
On Election Day, local law enforcement will also be on call. “In past significant elections, all officers and staff were placed on standby,” ACCPD public information officer Lt. Jody Thompson wrote in an emailed statement. “In addition, the downtown units were staffed with extra officers.” He says the same protocol will be followed this year. “We don’t expect any issues, but we are ready just in case.”
If the State Election Board’s new rules are upheld, poll workers will remain at their precincts after voting ends on Election Night to hand count the paper ballots, while “runners” will return the memory cards to a secure location for results to be counted. However, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney has blocked the rule from taking effect, ruling that it came too late to properly train poll workers.
Georgia law requires counties to certify election results one week after Election Day, but another controversial new rule by the State Election Board requires counties’
City Dope
But the main reason Davenport supports franchising is the large cost of illegal dumping. “Everybody keeps thinking Solid Waste picks up our trash. That’s not true,” Davenport said. “Transit picks up our trash. Landscape Management picks up our trash. Leisure Services picks up our trash. Think about the court costs [of prosecuting illegal dumping]… We are spending $1.6 million annually just on illegal dumping and service theft… It’s ridiculous when we have so many needs in this community, that we waste money on [this and] think it’s OK to keep the status quo.”
The commission will vote on the franchising proposal on Nov. 6. If they vote in favor, which seems unlikely, the local government would hire a contractor to provide expertise as they develop the franchising ordinance and related contracts. At that point, the franchising system could be ready to start by September 2026.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Commissioners are considering approval of a mixed-used apartment complex on North Avenue near Ruth Street that would include some affordable units. The developer is asking for permission to build 128 apartments (260 beds in total), 20% of which would be rented for an affordable price for someone making 80% of the area median income.
The developer is also planning to include retail space and a gas station in the plan, which was controversial among commissioners because of the potential for adverse
and what they could do right now is go ahead and just build [it] with no housing whatsoever,” Link said. “Do we hate gas stations more than we love affordable housing?”
Houle, who has spent months trying to block developers from building any new gas stations in Athens without special approval, seemed irked by Link’s comment. “I am a little disappointed in the false [choice] of, ‘We have to choose this or we get a gas station by right,’ because I’ll remind everyone that we could change our code to not allow gas stations by right, which is the thing I have been asking this body to do for a year,” Houle said.
The commission will vote on the mixeduse development on Nov. 6.
ATLANTA HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS: The Georgia Department of Transportation is considering a safety makeover for West Broad Street and Atlanta Highway from Hodgson Drive to Epps Bridge Road, and they’re asking the ACC Commission for their thoughts.
The changes being considered include numerous intersection improvements, lighting improvements, sidewalks, a multiuse path and a road diet from seven lanes to four lanes (plus left turn lanes at intersections) from Alps Road to Holman Avenue.
Commissioners seemed to support the idea, but they had a few concerns they wanted to pass along to GDOT. “I’m very excited about this project, “ Link said. “God knows that this stretch of West Broad is in need of desperate, desperate help. We’ve had many pedestrian fatalities, not to mention auto wrecks on the stretch.”
election boards to conduct a “reasonable inquiry” into the results before certifying them. In part because the board did not define what constitutes reasonable inquiry, many on both sides of the aisle have raised concerns that counties’ board members could use the rule as a pretext to refuse or delay certification if their preferred candidate does not win.
Opposition by election board members in various Georgia counties in recent years has not succeeded in stopping results from being certified, but only because enough other board members voted to certify. In a separate case, McBurney also ruled that election boards must certify elections. “If election superintendents were, as plaintiff urges, free to play investigator, prosecutor, jury, and judge and so—because of a unilateral determination of error or fraud— refuse to certify election results, Georgia voters would be silenced,” the judge wrote.
In addition, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox struck down seven newly passed State Election Board rules, including the one requiring ballots to be hand-counted after polls close. Cox found that the board overstepped its legal authority in passing those rules.
At the ACC Board of Elections office in mid-October, workers seemed to be in good spirits. Sosebee says that during election season she stays grounded with the help of her family and of her church community, where she is a praise and worship director. She finds it deeply meaningful to help ensure each person can vote. Like other election workers, she looks forward to Election Night, when “I get home and I see the results, and I know I was a part of that.”
But even if the election goes as smoothly as she hopes, she will not rest long—she is already thinking about the governor’s race two years from now. f
Workers started to cut down trees last week on the former Varsity property at Broad Street and Milledge Avenue in preparation for a mixed-use development including a grocery store, though plans show that a few of the century-old magnolias along Milledge will be preserved. Site plans for the development and a demolition permit have been approved, according to Interim Planning Director Bruce Lonnee. The plans meet the requirements of a zoning overlay district created in 2019, so they do not need commission approval.
health impacts on nearby residents. “We need the housing, for sure, but we need housing that’s not next to a toxic, unnecessary gas station,” Commissioner Jesse Houle said.
Davenport and Commissioners Tiffany Taylor, Carol Myers and Ovita Thornton agreed that the health risks of having a gas station so close to residential buildings was a concern. Despite this, Commissioner Melissa Link encouraged her colleagues to support the development.
“From what I understand, the actual property owner is dead set on a gas station,
GDOT’s proposal calls for a median that would block cars from making left-hand turns in some areas. Link’s main concern was that she wanted to make sure a left turn onto Magnolia Street remained possible for westbound traffic on West Broad.
GDOT will cover most of the cost of the project, although the local government will need to provide about $3.5 million for a multi-use path and improved lighting along the corridor.
This project is in the very early phases. GDOT will reach out to the public for input before the design is finalized. [Chris Dowd] f
ACC Director of Elections and Voter Registration Charlotte Sosebee poses for a photo in her office.
food &
good growing Climate Change
TEMPERATURE MATTERS FOR FALL GARDENS
By Erin France news@flagpole.com
With October comes a new, less intense round of gardening duties. Most chores can wait another week, or month, before you need to tackle them—except for saving any tender plants from the frost. Hopefully, you did that already since the first frost will have come and gone by the time this article prints.
BRING IN YOUR INDOOR PLANTS: If your indoor plants live outdoors in the summer, it’s past time to bring them inside. Some, like the foxtail fern, can survive a short frost with little to no consequences. Tropicsloving plants like the snake plant, sansevieria, could sustain some ugly frostbite. Don’t worry, you (probably) haven’t killed it! You’ll want to remove any damaged tissue; usually mushy, discolored spots that show up with warming temperatures. Bring the plant indoors as soon as possible. Make a plant-hospital spot with warmth and its favored level of lighting where you’ll remember to check on it daily. I use the top of my refrigerator for this purpose. The kitchen is one of the warmer rooms in my house, and the indirect light from the windows is perfect for shade-loving leaves. Avoid fertilizing any winter-dormant indoor plants at this time. If you’re looking for a great show from a winter-bloomer, like the Christmas cactus, throwing additional compost or some fertilizer in the pot could help encourage buds. Re-potting should wait until the spring, when most indoor plants start vigorous growth again. That said, you’re going to have to look at those pots for the next five months. If you hate it, change it.
Fall Lawns” with high nitrogen numbers and low or zero phosphorus. Avoid these. Winter rains will wash most of the nitrogen away before your grass can absorb it, and instead it will pollute local waterways. Even if you don’t care (or believe) in the environmental impact, it’s wasting money to dump nitrogen on a lawn that can’t absorb it.
Temperature matters, too. Though we’ve hit a few chilly nights, warm-weather grass generally goes dormant when soil temps hit below 65 degrees. According to the University of Georgia Weather Network,
the Athens area measures approximately 75 degrees for soil temp at 2 and 4 inches, so there’s still a window to fertilize your lawn. Assess whether you need any fertilizer at all with an annual $8 soil test. Bags available at your nearest extension office.
PICK THE RIGHT FERTILIZER: I am not a lawn person. But I am a person who hates seeing folks waste money. And I’ve seen plenty of lawn fertilizer products recently that look both financially and environmentally suspect.
Here in Georgia, we grow warm-season grasses like Bahia grass, Bermuda grass and St. Augustine grass. These grasses go dormant in the winter. Many “For Fall Lawns” products contain a lot of nitrogen. Nitrogen is the first number in the three listed numbers on any fertilizer container. Nitrogen promotes leaf growth. While it may green up your lawn before a few frosts, that growth will come at the expense of developing hardy, healthy roots for the dormant months.
Instead, check out the middle number, the phosphorus. Phosphorus promotes root growth. I’ve seen quite a few “For
MULCH UPDATE: I wrote a column last year about the importance of mulching in the fall and mentioned an experiment with coconut flakes. My husband works at Creature Comforts Brewing Co., and he brought hundreds of pounds of coconut home after it was steeped in last year’s Koko Buni. The pleasantly malty smell soured after a few days and the coconut turned a light brown to a dark brown as it rotted. The major drawback was the dogs—they ate mouthfuls of the stuff! It led to a few gross doggy stomach aches before they stopped mulch munching. Most of the ornamentals responded well in the spring, growing leaps and bounds better than with the previous year’s wood chips. The biggest winner: The roses. I don’t know what nitrogen/phosphorus/potassium magic the rotten coconut flakes contained, but the roses responded with armfuls of blooms. Those bushes had enough energy to survive peak Japanese beetle time and grow more healthy buds that looked like flowers instead of Swiss cheese.
I’m not suggesting you throw coconut flakes on your roses. I am suggesting that some organic debris you might see as waste could be a lovely unconventional mulch in disguise. f
ERIN FRANCE
What’s on the Ballot?
ATHENS VOTERS FACE CHOICES IN LEGISLATIVE RACES AND MORE
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
While Athens voters have been focusing most of their attention on an incredibly close presidential race and hotly contested race for district attorney, that’s not all that’s on the ballot.
Voters countywide will also be choosing a member of Congress and state senator, while more than half will be picking a state representative as well. Two constitutional amendments and a statewide referendum round out the ballot.
Republicans in Atlanta have sliced and diced Athens to the extent that they’ve all but ensured incumbents will be re-elected in each of these districts, but Democrats have fielded challengers nonetheless.
“This seat is winnable,” state House candidate Eric Gisler told Oconee County Democrats in August. “You know, they tell us that it’s not. They tell us we’re in a red district. They tell us it’s gerrymandered. And it is gerrymandered.
“But a year like this, where you’ve got Kamala Harris at the top and all this Democratic energy and such a horrible Republican ticket, and I mean all the way down the ballot, this district is flippable,” he said. “We can make it happen. I just need a little bit of help.”
HOUSE DISTRICT 120: State Rep. Houston Gaines (R-Athens), not yet 30, is widely viewed as a rising star within the Republican Party and has amassed a war chest of nearly $800,000. The grandson of a beloved judge, Joseph Gaines, he started his political career running Democratic mayor Nancy Denson’s re-election campaign while still in high school at Athens Academy. But he has been leaning into a MAGA persona as Donald Trump has taken over the GOP. A staunch critic of District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez, Gaines spearheaded bills creating a council to crack down on “rogue prosecutors” and requiring cash bail for minor crimes, as well as banning cities from “defunding the police” while falsely accusing Athens-Clarke County of doing so. He was also the deciding 91st vote to approve the “heartbeat bill” limiting abortions to six weeks. While these stances may be unpopular with Athens voters, most of Gaines’ district lies in conservative Oconee, Barrow and Jackson counties. Gaines has also worked to pass substance abuse recovery and parental leave bills, among more than 20 others.
the 10th Congressional District and Senate District 47.
HOUSE DISTRICT 121: Gisler is challenging state Rep. Marcus Wiedower (R-Athens), who represents most of Oconee County and a portion of southeastern Clarke County. Wiedower was first elected in 2018, along with Gaines, after both lost flukish special elections in 2017. The pair works closely together, although Wiedower keeps a lower profile than Gaines, who is often in the news. Wiedower voted in favor of the sixweek abortion ban, renter protections, an antisemitic hate crimes bill, requiring cash bail, mental health funding, banning the teaching of “divisive concepts” about race, allowing concealed weapons without a permit, private school vouchers and banning gender-affirming care. He lists his priorities as improving education, local control over transportation projects and preventing tax hikes.
The Georgia Democratic Party nominated Gisler when Courtney Frisch dropped out of the race shortly after the May
since 2015. He chairs the Game, Fish & Parks Committee.
SENATE DISTRICT 46: Sen. Bill Cowsert (R-Athens) is the city’s long-serving legislator, seeking his 10th term this year. A lawyer by trade, he is a staunch conservative, but has occasionally been known to buck his Republican colleagues, for example when he voted against a bill allowing guns on campus in 2017 that later became law. Earlier this year, Cowsert surprised advocates of expanding Medicaid when he called a committee hearing on the issue, then disappointed them when he cast the deciding vote against moving the legislation forward. His opponent this year is Gareth Fenley, a UGA graduate and Walton County resident who owns a business preparing students to take the social workers’ licensing exam. “My vision is bigger than one seat. I’m campaigning to strengthen democracy,” Fenley said in her campaign announcement. “No one can take for granted that our democracy will be here tomorrow.” She is in favor of a living wage, LGBTQ rights, access to health care and reforming gun laws.
SENATE DISTRICT 47: The other half of Athens is represented by Sen. Frank Ginn (R-Danielsville), an engineer who was first elected in 2010. His record is even more conservative than Cowsert’s—he voted “yes” on the campus carry bill and against a bill outlawing citizen’s arrest after the murder of Ahmaud Arberry in Brunswick. Ginn
primary. The Atlanta native is a former co-chair of the Oconee County Democrats, owns Athens business The Olive Basket and works for an insurance tech startup. His platform includes an independent redistricting commission, expanding Medicaid, a constitutional amendment guaranteeing abortion rights, and universal background checks and red flag laws for gun buyers.
Gaines is opposed by Democrat Andrew Ferguson, who is running on a platform of restoring abortion rights, fully funding education, and affordable housing and health care. Ferguson is executive director of the 2030 Project, a political action committee dedicated to flipping the state legislature before the next round of redistricting in 2032. He previously ran unsuccessfully for
HOUSE DISTRICT 124: Melanie Miller is the first Black woman to run for this seat and calls herself “a dedicated community leader and advocate for social justice.” The White Plains resident is running on a platform of restoring reproductive rights, protecting children from gun violence and expanding mental health services.
Incumbent Trey Rhodes (R-Greensboro) represents a mostly rural district that only recently was redrawn to include a sliver of eastern Clarke County. Like Wiedower and Gaines, he generally votes along party lines. Rhodes is an insurance agent and financial advisor who has served in the legislature
Georgia’s six-week abortion ban, as well as economic anxieties about the expense of health care and child care. In the wake of the Apalachee High School shooting, Doherty criticized Rep. Mike Collins for supporting a bill to reinstate the background check loophole for gun shows the Biden administration closed. She has also spoken out against last-minute election rule changes by Trump supporters at the state level.
Collins—the son and trucking company heir of the late Middle Georgia congressman Mac Collins—has primarily made a name for himself making outrageous statements on social media. For example, he has expressed a desire to throw his political opponents out of a helicopter like Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet, accused President Biden of ordering a hit on Donald Trump and said that Athens-Clarke County officials have “blood on their hands” for the murder of Laken Riley. Shortly after, Collins sponsored the Laken Riley Act, requiring the detention of any migrant accused of burglary or theft.
Doherty has challenged Collins to debate on numerous occasions, but he has yet to accept.
AMENDMENTS AND REFERENDUMS: The first constitutional amendment on the ballot would cap property assessments at the rate of inflation. For example, if one’s home value rose 10% in a year and the inflation rate was 2%, for tax purposes the assessed value
has faced a few scandals in recent years. In 2022 Fox 5 discovered that Ginn, then the chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, had obtained free steel beams from a bridge project in Madison County. Later that year, he left his job as director of the Madison County Industrial Development Authority under pressure from the county commission.
Once again, Ginn’s opponent is Conolus Scott, a courthouse bailiff and minister from Madison County. Scott has said that Ginn “caters to special interests” and that he will “bring honesty, integrity and respect back to our district.” He is in favor of reproductive rights, expanding Medicaid, stricter gun laws, education funding and closing tax loopholes that benefit the wealthy.
10TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT: Lexy Doherty is running harder in this deep-red, mostly rural district than any Democrat in years. She has talked about her experience putting off having children due to fears about having complications that could violate
would rise only 2%. This would benefit homeowners, but it could shift the tax burden onto businesses, landlords and renters. If the amendment passes, local jurisdictions can opt out. However, Mayor Kelly Girtz told Flagpole that ACC is unlikely to opt out. “Clarke is in a better position than many communities, in that a minority of our tax digest is comprised of homesteaded properties,” he said. “The jurisdictions that will really be hit hard are those like Jefferson and Johns Creek that are more heavily comprised of resident homeowners.”
The second constitutional amendment would create a new tax court for disputes with the Georgia Department of Revenue, which are currently handled by an administrative tribunal. Supporters say it would speed up the process of handling disputes.
A statewide referendum would increase the tax exemption for “tangible personal property” from $7,500 to $20,000. This includes boats, airplanes and business inventory but does not affect residential property taxes. f
Athens’ state House and Senate districts.
Trump Incited the Jan. 6 Mob
Sometimes we need to look into the trees to see the forest. In this heated campaign season, it’s difficult to dig through all the conflicting stories to see the bigger picture. But once in a while, the smallest event can provide the greatest clarity.
We all know what happened on Jan. 6, 2021: The Capitol in Washington, DC was stormed by a mob of our fellow citizens. In the aftermath there have been accusations, investigations and, yes, criminal convictions of many of the rioters. Throughout it all, Donald Trump has maintained his innocence as instigator of the event. Indeed former President Trump stated he had “nothing to do with” the attack. He wants us to think he was simply a neutral bystander.
“Peacefully and patriotically, I said during my speech,” is how he characterized his instructions to the rally attendees, attempting to paint himself as a neutral observer. But he went on to reveal where he truly stands when he added “Ashli Babbitt was shot by an out-of-control police officer that should have never, ever, shot her. And nobody on the other side was killed.”
Let’s step back and review. Babbitt was a rally attendee who forcefully stormed and entered the Capitol. She was subsequently shot by a United States Capitol Police officer while attempting to climb through a shattered window leading to the speaker’s lobby. She later died of her wound in a local hospital. (Trump does not acknowledge the deaths of police officers from the attack; one officer died the following day from two strokes, and four later died of suicide in the months following the riot.)
To Trump, on Jan. 6 there were two “sides” engaged in battle in the Capitol. A supporter on his “side” was killed while storming the building. The “other side” included the Capitol Police and others who attempted to protect the building. Nothing to do with the attack? Not so fast—his very words reveal his actions and true allegiance.
Richard Burt Athens
Words Aren’t Enough
In the aftermath of the Barrow County high-school shooting, mountains of comments were posted. Words will not correct this unacceptable, heartbreaking situation.
I found state Sen. Frank Ginn’s words disturbingly short-sighted. Ginn said, “Firearms are not the enemy. The enemy is the mentally deranged.”
This lame Republican response is not working. Instead, firearm safety and mental illness need expert solutions. We must get started with adequate funding and early education. Elect thoughtful leaders who fight to protect our children and our communities from gun violence.
A common-sense change to Georgia’s gun laws is if there are minor children in your home, guns must be locked-up and inaccessible without adult supervision. In addition, schools and parents must be proactive in preventing bullying. Our legislative leaders need to fund mental health
screening, services for victims and treatment for bullies.
Jeanne Peck Danielsville
Turn Anger Into Action
It’s been a month since the shooting at Apalachee High School. What emotions have you felt since then? Perhaps, like me, you have gone through several stages. My first response was shock—a violent, senseless tragedy took place in the high school closest to the one my granddaughter attends. Sorrow quickly followed. The more I learned about the victims—Richard Aspinwall, Cristina Irimie, Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo—the more I understood what a loss the community suffered. The next weeks brought depression. Do we simply add Apalachee’s tragedy to the 400 mass shootings that have happened already this year? Is Apalachee destined to be just another statistic?
Underneath that depression lies anger. With sensible, effective legislation in place, there’s a good chance the shooting might never have happened. Most Georgia voters want stricter gun safety laws, but our elected representatives refuse to heed our wishes.
Let’s turn anger into action. Let’s make sure our state legislators and federal representatives know we hold them responsible for defeating reasonable legislation that would end the senseless killing. Their negative votes have left a trail of tragedy.
Barbara Burt Athens
Repeal ‘Divisive Concepts’ Law
The Athens, Atlanta and Savannah branches of the Association for the Study of African American Life And History (ASALH) decry the recent attack on the teaching of Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies in Georgia schools. However, the outcry that pressured the State Superintendent of Education to fully rescind his decision to deny support and AP credit for the course is indicative of the greater problem: The contradictory and repressive “divisive concept” law (HB 1084) signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2022. Woods claimed, without due diligence, that AP African American Studies violates this law, adding to the confusion and frustration that this law has caused. Though the law pretends to defend open academic inquiry and the constitutional right to free speech, it actually serves as a means to suppress that which it claims to defend. African American history and culture is American history and culture. It augments the study of American history by including that which has been traditionally underrepresented. As with any history, there is tragedy as well as triumph. African American history and culture is much more than the study of enslavement, but that terrible history must be truthfully included. It cannot be whitewashed. And the contribution African Americans have made to American culture cannot be understated. A truthful and forthright examination of any subject
should cause some discomfort: No one should feel comfortable reading The Diary of Anne Frank or learning about the Trail of Tears; but rather than shame, the usual response to gaining knowledge of these events lends clarity to the understanding of the human condition today.
The repeal of the “divisive concept” law is a necessity. When we look back at the deliberate efforts made to distort our history and promote negative stereotypes of persons of color (which caused and continues to cause extreme psychological distress), telling the full story of not only African Americans, but of all of the world cultures that comprise American history and culture will finally honor the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion that our nation should strive for. Whitewashing and suppression are what is truly divisive.
Conolus Scott got an impressive 38% of the vote in his first run for the 47th Senate District. He only needs 12% to win. Scott is campaigning heavily in precincts likely to produce those needed votes. As an advocate for gun safety laws, women’s reproductive health, public education, affordable housing and voting rights, Scott offers a welcome contrast to his opponent, Frank Ginn.
As a double-dipping public employee and part-time senator, Ginn has disappointed voters and his government employers alike. Ginn was fired from his last four non-Senate jobs. Commissioners refused to renew Ginn’s contracts, citing poor performance and the fact that he was receiving maximum pay for minimum work. Instead of working hard for voters, Ginn has used his positions to line his own pockets.
As a Republican senator, Ginn has failed to keep our local schools safe from gun violence. Georgia women are dying of treatable miscarriages because the Republican legislature’s abortion ban is too extreme and too confusing. Republican cruelty has failed to expand Medicaid. They turned down federal funds to feed hungry and malnourished children during the summer.
Scott is a decent, caring man who is running to restore honesty and integrity to District 47. He has spent his life working for a living. He has also made time to serve his community as chair of the local planning commission, as a member of the Pastor’s and Layman’s Association and as a supporter of the food ministry, run by his wife of 56 years, Rebecca Jo Scott. When his children were young, he was a coach.
If you find yourself frustrated and dismayed by Republican cliches like “thoughts and prayers,” and “now is not the time,” vote for a Democrat. Scott cares about and will serve all voters in the 47th District. Harriet Jenkins Gray Royston
Elect Conolus Scott, Part 2
I have now completely lost faith in Republicans, mostly Trump and his lies about the heartbreaking tragedy of Hurricane Helene, using them to further his campaign for president. There is no low low enough for Trump, and no Republicans have the courage to step up to call him out except for the Cheneys and a precious few
others. It’s time for a critical change in America.
Corrupt Republican Frank Ginn sure hasn’t stepped up with his long sordid history during his overlong tenure in the 47th Senate District of Georgia. I have been looking at his opponent, Conolus Scott, for some time now. Conolus Scott strikes me as a genuinely honest and sincere man whose background in managing large numbers of people with both fairness and strength would serve us well. He understands firsthand the needs of rural areas as well as urban areas. Conolus Scott would be the breath of fresh air we all so very much need now. Turn this miserable tide and vote for Conolus Scott to return decency and integrity to Georgia.
Virginia Moss Ila
Georgia’s Gun Laws
As a current graduate student at the University of Georgia’s Masters of Social Work program and a 2020 alumnus of North Oconee High School in Bogart, I am devastated by the recent school shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, a school only 22 minutes from my home. A school I often visited for sports games and events. A school and community living with the aftermath of a heinous act.
I find myself saddened, enraged and frustrated at the lack of gun control throughout the state of Georgia. On a recent weekend in North Georgia, I found myself shocked by the easy accessibility of gun sales, the weapons sitting unlocked and easily in reach of customers, from bait shops to pharmacies. In Georgia, we have some of the weakest gun laws in the United States. In April of 2022, Gov. Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 319, a bill allowing Georgia gun owners to carry a concealed handgun in public without first obtaining a license from the state. Although the federal government requires federally licensed firearms dealers to initiate a background check on the purchaser prior to sale of a firearm, private sellers are not required to do the same. This is extremely disturbing how easy it is to acquire guns in our state. I believe as a state, especially after this horrendous tragedy in our community, we must advocate for stricter gun laws. We must require thorough background checks through private sellers, as well as requiring all citizens to obtain a license to carry a concealed handgun in public. Gun owners should be required to go through training in order to ensure they can properly handle and safely store their firearms so that they are not easily accessible to children.
I believe in the second amendment and the right to bear arms as a constitutional right. I do not believe we should completely ban guns in our state or our country. I understand it is a means of protection as well as recreation. What I do believe is our responsibility and civic duty that our children feel safe in schools.
I’m tired of being scared to go to school. I’m tired of looking around my classroom thinking about the best way to get out. I’m tired of looking around thinking where I could hide and what I could use to protect myself. I’m tired of worrying if my dad, a high school teacher in South Georgia, is going to make it home that day.
Georgia, please listen to me. I am so tired.
Avery Hughes Bogart
Earlysavesdetection lives
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• Expand support for victims and protect their rights
• Utilize accountability courts to their full potential to connect nonviolent o enders with the help they need
• Return to a fully sta ed, functional o ce that trains the next generation of attorneys
• Hold violent criminals accountable
• Pair community outreach with e ective prosecution
art notes feature
Water is Life
ELAINE STEPHENSON PAINTS MURAL ON GREENWAY
By Jessica Smith arts@flagpole.com
Beautifying an underpass on the North Oconee River Greenway, Elaine Stephenson’s new mural “Water is Life” pays homage to the natural beauty and importance of the nearby river. Located near the trailhead off of North Oconee Access Road, the Atlanta-based artist’s mural turns an otherwise utilitarian structure into an immersive site of surprise and imagination.
Stephenson’s design was chosen by a community panel using a blind selection process from a pool of 38 applications submitted during a nationwide call for art. Facilitated by the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission, the mural was funded by Athens- Clarke County’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) program, a 1% sales tax approved by voters that funds a variety of capital improvement projects.
full- time. I did a lot to prepare for that leap, such as taking a business course, saving up money, and lining up projects six months in advance of when I planned to go full- time. This helped me hit the ground running, and I find it’s really important as a selfemployed artist to be proactive and always be doing outreach or applying to art calls so the work keeps coming in.”
Stephenson considers “Water is Life” to have been a full- circle moment, both personally and professionally. Not only was she able to contribute public artwork in the city where her formal art training took place, but she was able to speak with current UGA graphic design students who visited her inprogress mural.
Hoping to empower other aspiring mural artists, Stephenson is an open book when it comes to sharing what she’s learned. In addition to offering private consultation sessions, she offers a comprehensive 50-page PDF mural guide full of tips and tricks, as well as immersive weekend retreats where participants can get hands-on experience.
“I wanted to create a mural that emphasizes the importance of water in our lives and the cyclical nature of how it supports our ecosystems and ourselves,” says Stephenson. “The ceiling shows different shades of blue, which I wanted to represent the myriad of blue water from rivers, to oceans and lakes—in the most appealing hues, of course. The column designs are meant to integrate more with the surrounding landscape, using greens to represent the vegetation. The flowers and insects are inspired by the pollinator areas found nearby along the trail. Lastly, I painted puddles of water on the ground so the viewer can stand on them and become immersed as part of the installation.”
After graduating from the Lamar Dodd School of Art at the University of Georgia in 2011, Stephenson spent the following decade working as a graphic designer for various marketing agencies and a large nonprofit. She began painting murals in 2018, but it wasn’t until mid-2021 that she made the leap to become a full- time independent artist. Her background in graphic design greatly influences her style as a mural artist, evident from her love of typography and usage of bold colors and graphic lines.
“Once I painted my first mural I was hooked, as I found it so exciting and rewarding to see my artistic designs out in the world for the public to engage with,” says Stephenson. “I continued painting one mural after another until I believed I had enough skill, momentum and demand to leave my job and pursue being an artist
Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle
CREATING DIY COSTUME MAGIC FOR THE FESTIVITIES
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
The annual Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle that transforms downtown Athens into a whimsical Halloween wonderland is one of the few places where standing out means fitting in.
For the creatively inclined, it’s the perfect time of year to show off sewing, crafting and building skills. Among the diverse crowd of townies and travelers, you’re likely to spot some truly creative, impressive and magical costumes and cosplays. Of course store-bought and trendy costumes, or even just a sweatshirt and jeans, is all fair game to participate by walking in the parade or standing stage-side to catch the performances. Everyone is welcomed.
Parade-goer Nelita Willey discussed her Wild Rumpus costume plan with Flagpole, which is to go as Pandora from the Greek myth with a slightly humorous twist. She’ll be dressed in basic pseudo-Grecian attire carrying a box rigged with springy snakes to pop out when opened. She says that characters from folktales, fairy tales or world mythologies are easier to throw together because they can look like anything and be conveyed with accessories or motifs unique to the character.
also go a long way,” says Willey.
Ultimately Wild Rumpus is about having a good time and enjoying yourself, in whatever way that looks like.
“I look forward to dancing my ass off every year. I usually hang with my friends for the beginning of the night, then head out to the stages to dance until I can’t dance anymore,” says Johnson.
“I get a lot of inquiries from newer artists wanting advice, so I want to be able to help others as I can and not be a gatekeeper of information,” she says.
Stephenson also leads multiple initiatives to help build community among creatives in Atlanta. Established in 2021, ATL Art Pals is a monthly meetup for women and non-binary artists and art lovers to bond through “drink and draws” at breweries, art critiques over coffee or group exhibitions. Launched earlier this October, Mini Murals ATL is a new series featuring emerging artists in order to help them build their portfolios and break into the industry.
A portion of “Water is Life” will be completed at a later date due to scheduled bridge maintenance in the coming months, with a dedication ceremony to follow. To keep up with Stephenson’s endeavors, visit @artsy_elaine on Instagram or elaine stephenson.com.
In other public art news, the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission recently announced a nationwide call for professional artists to submit qualifications for consideration for public art on Linnentown Lane. According to the call summary, “This sculpture will serve as a visual icon of the injustice that occurred at the site of the Linnentown community in the name of urban renewal. The work of art will capture the beauty and joy of life in Linnentown, but also speak to the harm enacted on the people of Linnentown, the pain they experienced in their displacement and the legacy their descendants have inherited.”
The all-inclusive budget is $75,000, and the deadline to apply is Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. For details on how to submit a proposal or apply to serve on a selection panel, visit accgov.com/4161/Athens- Cultural- AffairsCommission. f
“When I was growing up I rarely had store-bought costumes because they were too expensive for us, but over time I realized that I preferred the quality of homemade costumes, as well as the fact that I could go as more niche concepts or characters,” says Willey.
Another regular and enthusiastic Wild Rumpus attendee is Farrah Johnson, who has several costumes planned around her current obsessions with “Bridgerton” and the Death Becomes Her musical.
“First I grab all of my source materials— pictures, videos, etc.—then I go through things around my house to find materials and clothing items that I can use for my costumes. Finally I go to the thrift stores and check the ‘buy nothing’ Facebook pages. I try to reuse as many items as I possibly can for my costumes,” says Johnson.
Halloween has a way of coming up faster than expected, and Willey gives a reminder that you don’t have to dress up as something specific to have a good time at the parade. She suggests throwing on a wig with some odd items from your closet or just trying out an avant-garde makeup look with a simple outfit. For last-minute costume planning Johnson adds that it doesn’t have to be complicated, and many of us have clothing items in our closets we rarely wear because there’s never the right occasion. There are also tips for putting together a costume on a tight budget.
“Look at what you have in your house before you go buy stuff, then hit the thrift store. Save the larger purchases for things like specific accessories or props after you’ve built up a base costume. Also a lot of things are much easier to make than you might think. Don’t be afraid to hot glue! Details are really what make a costume look nice, so if you feel that yours is lacking you can always add some glass rhinestones or fake flowers from the craft store. Glitter can
Everything Wild Rumpus is packed into Saturday, Oct. 26 this year with a pre-parade Rumpus Rally from 5–8 p.m. at Creature Comforts Brewery, where live music and beer will hype the masses to begin their parade march at 8 p.m. sharp. This year’s theme is MoonLIT, commemorated by merch available at the festival. The parade route will start on West Hancock Avenue adjacent to Creature Comforts, snaking its way through the downtown streets before ending on W. Washington Street. Local musicians will be jamming out along the parade route to boost morale and provide pockets of continued entertainment. The end of the route opens up into a block-wide dance party of Rumpusland celebrations. Multiple stages will feature DJs, community dance groups and other entertainment in addition to fire spinners, aerialist performers and plenty of laser lights. When the street party comes to an end at 11 p.m., all of the gathered creatures of the night can keep the party going at The Midnight Howl after party at Paloma Park. There the music and drinks will continue flowing until 2 a.m.
The official festival zone spans four blocks marked by street barricades where open-container drinking is allowed between the hours of 3 p.m.–1 a.m. with the purchase of a $5 wristband. Wristbands can be purchased at Creature Comforts, Paloma Park, Cheba Hut, Rook & Pawn, Ted’s Most Best, Trappeze Pub, Flicker Theatre & Bar, Clocked and El Paso Tacos + Tequila. Drinking alcohol on the streets outside of the designated zone is still illegal. For more information about event details, the fundraising mission and more, visit wildrumpus.org. f
Rumpus Rally 5–8 p.m. (Creature Comforts Brewery): Organically Programmed, Love.Craft Band and Dekadance
Rumpusland Celebration 8–11 p.m. (W. Washington Street from Lumpkin to Pulaski streets): The Booty Boyz, Fairiez and DJ Ellwin with dance performances by League of Step, Danza Azteca and Belli Dance Company
The Midnight Howl 11 p.m.–2 a.m. (Paloma Park): Cardynal & the Flock and BROasis
This plea for sanity is from a WW2/vintage American citizen furious at Republicans who have made rape and incest legal and medical procedures necessary for saving women and girls’ lives illegal and punishable by
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ART | THU, OCT. 24
Jim Saah
Flicker Theatre & Bar • 5 p.m. • FREE!
A labor across decades, Jim Saah’s blackand-white film photography book, In My Eyes: Photographs 1982-1997, captures the Washington D.C. music scene, including hundreds of photos of punk and hardcore legends like Fugazi, Minor Threat, Void, Black Flag, Circle Jerks, Dead Kennedys and more. Saah’s work spans beyond these genres, as well, with the inclusion of artists like The Cramps, The Pixies, Lou Reed, Guided by Voices, Fishbone and Wilco. It is a collection that captures the energy and abandon of a particular time and place and is one of the most comprehensive documentations of its kind. Besides photographs, it also includes intimate interviews with notable figures from the scene, honoring and preserving an era of transformation in the musical landscape. As part of a tour for the book’s second edition, Saah will be holding a presentation on his favorite images and why they are important to him, followed by a signing and print sale. [Mary Beth Bryan]
ART | THU, OCT. 24
Adam Void
tiny ATH gallery • 6 p.m. • Donations accepted Multidisciplinary artist Adam Void is influenced by folk tales, freight trains and mistakes. The Black Mountain, NC resident’s recent series, “Disposable Society,” was planned prior to Hurricane Helene, but in its wake Void has curated the show to reflect some of the imagery and feeling associated with the disaster, particularly the region’s vulnerability and the trash and debris left behind after the water drained. The work heavily incorporates typography and collage elements atop weathered paper and cardboard surfaces. While Void’s art has been included in many prestigious venues and publications, he says, “You would be just as likely to come across one of my pieces in a Southern gas station bathroom or the tape deck of an eccentric recluse.” This closing event will also feature a musical performance by Void, with a catalog that runs on circuit bent electronics and out of tune guitars. [MB]
MUSIC | THU, OCT. 24
Bob Mould
40 Watt Club • 7 p.m. (doors) • $30–35
Bob Mould is a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter best known for his work with seminal ’80s punk rock band Hüsker Dü. Though initially met with modest mainstream success, the band was later credited as a key influence in the alternative rock scene. After Hüsker Dü split in the late 1980s, Mould embarked on his first solo album, quitting drinking and drugs and sequestering in a remote farmhouse to create 1989’s commercially successful Workbook. In 1992, Mould joined bassist David Barbe and drummer Malcolm Travis to form alternative rock project Sugar, which went on to release two albums, an EP and a B-sides collection. Since then, Mould has released several more solo records that encompass punk, folk and electronic influences. Barbe will
be opening Mould’s Athens show, as well as several other shows across his current Southeastern U.S. tour. [MB]
EVENT | SAT, OCT. 26
Vulture Festival
ACC Landfill • 8:30 a.m. • FREE! Dedicated to “nature’s clean-up crew,” the ACC Vulture Fest shines a light on vultures’ under-appreciated efforts as a key part of a clean and healthy ecosystem. It also celebrates the ACC landfill property, where organics are composted, materials are recycled and landfill gasses are converted into electricity. Vulture Fest’s lineup of educational and fun events includes family activities, informational tables, a costume contest, food and live animals. Auburn University’s Raptor Center Program will hold presentations at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., and there will be guided tours of the ACC composting operations at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. and of the landfill operations at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. The Oconee Audubon Society will also host a bird walk at 8 a.m. before the festival begins. [MB]
LECTURES & LIT | TUE, OCT. 29
The Shrieking of Nothing
Buvez • 6 p.m. • FREE!
New York-born, Athens-based author Jordan A. Rothacker’s newest novel, The Shrieking of Nothing, is a future noir mystery set in a post-climate catastrophe, post-capitalist Atlanta in the year 2220. It is a sequel to Rothaker’s 2020 novel, The Death of the Cyborg Oracle, both following Assistant Sacred Detective Edwina Casaubon and her Sherlockian mentor, Sacred Detective Rabbi Jakob “Thinkowitz” Rabbinowitz. In this doomed version of Atlanta, the two work together to solve a mystery involving a Filipino mountain goddess, a person
who went missing at an Ego Death Festival and a serial killer with a taste for avatars, addressing themes like shared guilt and cooperative healing along the way. Author Lillah Lawson says Rothaker “deftly toes that fine line between levity and lament, exploring what David Bowie called ‘the great salvation of bullshit faith with a clear note of warning, a strong dose of empathy, and dare I say, hope.’” Accordingly, the book launch will also be a David Bowie-themed costume party featuring an album preview by Andrew Steck and guest readers William M. Brandon III, Jordan Stepp and Mark Katzman. [MB] f
Trevon’s Green X Roll PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
FILL THE VOID: Athens R&B singer-songwriter Trevon just released his newest full-length named Green X Roll. It’s a long record, clocking in at 16 songs. And you know what? They’re all worth the time spent listening. From the jump with opening song “Present,” he hits on all points. I may be in the minority here, but I prefer his songs that are more sparse to those with fuller arrangements. Not that those slack by any degree at all. Indeed, some like “Never Let You Down,” “All I Know” and “Be The Difference” are wonderfully modern tracks. But when it’s just him and little else, that’s where this really hits. Specific highlights for me are “Burning Down,” “Won’t Sleep Tonight,” “Pot Of Greed” and “Let It Play.” I make no bones at all when I say I’d put this up against Frank Ocean any day of the week. Find this at tr3von.bandcamp. com, and follow along at instagram.com/3trevon.
MINTY FRESH: Red Dakota has been toolin’ around town for a couple-few years now, but released its first full-band single on Saturday, Oct. 19. It’s named “The Formula,” and it’s one of those songs that’s completely baked into that middle area between indie rock and mainstream acceptance. Think Veruca Salt-lite or something similar. It also employs the old standard of loud-quiet-loud for its intrasong dynamism. You can find this on Spotify. For all other information, please see instagram.com/reddakotamusic.
Azteca, Belli Dance Company and the High Fallootin’ Scallywags Drum Brigade. The main event is the parade through downtown, but there are both before and after events, too. Please see wildrumpus.org for important information regarding the parade route, public alcohol consumption, etc.
I WOKE UP STILL DREAMING: It’s been a few years, but Echo Constant has returned with a new 18-track, full-length album named Rebirth. The entire record was constructed with solely a laptop and the audio program Audacity. The actual music is all
ESPRIT DE CORPS: The United States Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants will perform a free concert at the Hodgson Concert Hall Thursday, Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. This event features, of course, patriotic music, but also Broadway classics, as well as “a salute to our veterans.” As stated, this event is indeed free, but tickets are required. You can reserve those online via pac.uga.edu/event/united-states-air-forceband (click the red box on upper right). For more information on both these groups, please see music.af.mil.
OUT IN THE STREETS, THAT’S WHERE WE’LL MEET:
As you well know, the Wild Rumpus takes place this Saturday, Oct. 26. As this event has grown from its very tender and sparse roots to become a destination event for the Southeast, the enthusiasm for it generally reaches a fevered pitch. The lineup of performers slated to play both during the parade route and at specific places is pretty huge and includes The Booty Boyz, Fairiez, Organically Programmed, Cardynal & The Flock, Fishbug, Captains of Revelry, the Love.Craft Band, El Chupaskabra, Beast Mode, Father Werewolf, DJ JiiG, Molly’Tu Hott, Squallé, Trepid (ft. Grandfather), Woah Nelly, Nadia Vaeh, Karma Kat, Libbaloops + Bryant Perez, the Athens Burn Consortium, Dekadance, Nightshade Family + DJ Ellwin, League of Step, Danza
sample, clip and loop based. The source material is myriad, and chances are very good you’ll recognize more than one thing here. While it’s way too long to parse this track by track, please know that if you’re in the market for some very nice downtempo, trip hop and deep house kind of stuff with a definite vaporwave flair, you’ll love wrapping yourself up in his. What I did was just put my headphones on, press play, and let it do its thing. That said, specific highlights here are “Good To Each Other,” “Love” and “Deep Pleasure.” Find this at echoconstant. bandcamp.com.
TURNED UP: Songwriter Chris McKay just released a double-A-sided single under the project name The Fur Department. The first track, “Colors Running Out,” expertly combines a few styles (namely arena rock, space rock and experimental operatic rock) in a way that sounds good in the headphones but, admittedly, sounds clunky on paper. It opens with an ELO-worthy synth and tearing guitar solo, which is nice to hear from McKay. It’s lyrically dark, which is atypical of him and a bit of an adjustment for longtime listeners. The second track, “Tanning Lotion And Sinister Notions,” is both similarly moody and similarly constructed (i.e. multiple styles). The vocals on the second one often follow an early rap style, but this song as a whole is more like an unreleased Queen song more than anything. However, that’s also a bit reductive, as the song may have used them as a deep reference somewhere, but it flourishes on its own quite fine without some classic rock millstone around its neck. Find them each at chrismckay.bandcamp.com, and keep up with all things McKay at chrismckay.com. f
Trevon
Bob Mould
School of Music Concerts are held at the UGA Performing Arts Center
ImaginePossibilities
Director Levon Ambartsumian is joined by Nicholas Williams and the UGA Wind Ensemble for music spanning a variety of musical eras.
Friday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Hodgson Concert Hall UGA PAC
BAROQUE TO THE 20TH CENTURY TABLE FOR THREE AT CHEZ JANAU: AN EVENING OF DUOS AND TRIOS
Featuring ten of UGA’s world-class music faculty for an intimate evening of music.
Monday, October 28 at 7:30 p.m.
Hodgson Concert Hall UGA PAC
Journey through some of opera’s historic arias and moments sung by our graduate opera students and the impeccable UGA voice faculty.
Friday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 10 at 3 p.m.
Hodgson Concert Hall, UGA PAC
The Chameleons
By Jordan Stepp music@flagpole.com
Legacy can be a difficult matter to deal with for a long-lived band like The Chameleons. Starting with the debut single “In Shreds” in 1982, the post-punk band from Greater Manchester, England built itself a cult following with its spellbinding layers of resounding guitars, impassioned, yearning vocals and emotionally cathartic lyrics.
Echoes of The Chameleons can be found all throughout modern goth and post-punk music, from The Killers and Interpol to Vision Video and beyond. But what happens after decades of break ups, restarts, side-projects and relentless touring create certain expectations? For frontman Mark Burgess, it’s an easy answer hard won: You must move forward.
group is currently on tour playing the entirety of the 1986 release Strange Times The album was a pivotal point for the band, showcasing new songwriting strengths and complicating both the sound of The Chameleons and the personal dynamics within. Revisiting the album now in a live setting is a welcome challenge and a bridge to the band’s updated sound, says Burgess.
Moving forward doesn’t mean leaving yesterday behind. Progress is a series of movements towards something new, possibly something different, but ultimately something necessary to keep the joy of creation alive. It’s in this spirit that the band took several of its earliest songs and polished them to a shine, releasing them this month as the Tomorrow Remember Yesterday EP. Burgess believes that this EP, along with an upcoming album slated for a 2025 release, is proof positive that the band is moving onward with a renewed sense of purpose.
“We took a few things out of mothballs, and we didn’t feel like they were finished. So we finished them,” says Burgess. “It was only because we were so happy with the results of doing that that we wanted to record them. And it was organic from there. We really felt that we’d taken something that was right in the very beginning, even before our John Peel sessions, even before the band had really found its sound, and done something fresh with it with the band that we are now. We feel pretty good about it. The original rough sketches of these songs came out on various retrospectives and things like that. Some of the die-hards will be familiar with them in some form or another. I hope that people will recognize that we’re now taking it forward.”
Burgess and company—including guitarists Reg Smithies and Stephen Rice, keyboardist Danny Ashberry and drummer Todd Demma—have now turned that momentum towards The Chameleons’ live shows, expertly balancing fans’ nostalgia with the evolution of its live sound. The
“Dave Fielding, God bless him, was a huge part of that. But he left the band 20 years ago. We’re not going to rehash his sound. He took it with him. We have to reflect who we are now. There will be a thread because Reg and I are writing together again. With Strange Times… it is a challenging piece of music to do,” says Burgess. “As a complete piece from start to finish, it is challenging. And it marked a change in our writing. It was a milestone, really, in terms of becoming a little bit more mature in our writing. We’d never really done anything like ‘Caution’ before. We’d never done anything like ‘Tears.’ We’d never done anything like ‘Seriocity’ or any of it really. It was all kind of a forward step from the typical kind of angst-ridden post-punk that we’re known for. So, I really thought we were coming into our own as writers, as songwriters. And I have to say we absolutely love doing it, love playing it.”
Joining The Chameleons at the 40 Watt Club on Saturday at the second ever Southern Gothic Festival are local gothpop band Vision Video, shock-rocker Miss Cherry Delight and post-punk Deceits from Los Angeles. The kickoff on Friday is a packed lineup ranging from post-punk to goth rock and all shades in between. Local rock powerhouses Tears for the Dying and Vincas, the darkwave Panic Priest, synthdriven post-punk House of Harm, dark pop band Korine and legendary post-punk band The March Violets are all heavy hitters on their own, making such a festival a once in a lifetime live experience. And for Burgess and The Chameleons, that is what it is all about.
“We should be supporting live music anyway!” urges Burgess. “Live music seems to be on the precipice of becoming a dying thing, and we really really need this in our lives. We need live music in our lives. I know it’s getting more expensive, and that’s a drag. Especially when it’s an English band coming over to America. It’s so expensive to do it, but we’re cheaper than Oasis!” f
WHO: Southern Gothic Festival WHEN: Oct 25, 7 p m (doors) and Oct . 26, 8:30 (doors) WHERE: 40 Watt Club HOW MUCH: $45 (one-day), $70 (two-day)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22ND
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23RD NEW FACES NIGHT FEAT. LANDER COMBS, GOLDEN ENTENDRE, DAISY SWAYS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24TH THE HOWDIES
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25TH ATHENS SHOWGIRL CABARET
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26TH AQUATIC SOUL TRIBUTE SHOW
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27TH VIC VARNEY AND CLOUDS
live music calendar
Tuesday 22
40 Watt Club
7 p.m. (doors). $10 (adv.), $12. www.40watt.com
BRUISER & BICYCLE Progressive rock-skewed art pop band influenced by freak folk from Albany, NY.
ROBE Bryan Casey leads shoegazetinged songs with a cool, energetic vibe.
KISHI BASHI Lush, romantic, violin-based indie rock multiinstrumentalist whose latest album, Kantos, is at turns deeply unsettling and sublimely joyful.
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.
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $40–60. pac.uga.edu
THE SIXTEEN Revered British choir that performs a variety of pieces, from medieval hymns to contemporary choral compositions.
ONE EYED MOON Atlanta-based rock project that blends doom, desert, stoner, sludge and a little grunge-punk.
DUNCE HAT Deep South swamp and doom.
CANOPY Atmospheric sludge metal from Atlanta. Creature Comforts
Brewery
Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket. net 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
DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.
TUCKER WETMORE Breakout country star from Kalama, WA. ASHLAND CRAFT Country musician who cut her teeth performing at bars in her South Carolina hometown and is now among CMT’s Next Women of Country.
Georgia Theatre
Rooftop
6:30 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre. com
LEON MACJEN Folk rock musician with a well-worn voice.
OPEN MIC This special open mic features Korean barbecue and kava. Proceeds benefit community kitchens in Gaza and Hurricane Helene relief organizations.
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. FREE! www.music.uga.edu
UGA BASSOON STUDIO SPOOKTACULAR This year’s performance features music (and costumes) inspired by the magical world of Disney. Audience costumes are encouraged.
Thursday 24
40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors). $30–35 (seated show), $125 (table). www.40watt. com
BOB MOULD Guitarist, vocalist and songwriter known for his work with alternative rock bands Hüsker Dü in the 1980s and Sugar in the 1990s.
DAVID BARBE Local luminary and studio engineer who has played in bands such as Mercyland and BarB-Q Killers.
OPEN MIC Mayor Dodd Ferrell, Adam Poulin, MK Barnes and Joe Willey lead a weekly open mic. Sing a song, tell a story or read a poem.
Nowhere Bar
9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens
BLUES JAM Bring an instrument and join host Big C and The Moonshynes for an open blues jam. The house band includes Scott Nicholson, Derek Warren, Brent Davenport and Bo Hembree.
MARCH VIOLETS English postpunk and gothic rock band formed in 1981 in Leeds.
leading this evening of music spanning a wide variety of musical eras.
Morton Theatre
8:30 p.m. SOLD OUT! bit.ly/ccaheohc
CANDLELIGHT: A HAUNTED EVENING OF HALLOWEEN
CLASSICS The Listeso String Quartet performs selections from horror film scores and other spooky season favorites under the gentle glow of candlelight.
Nowhere Bar
9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens
JACKSON TANNER TRIO Soulful Southern rock from Macon. Oak House Distillery
7 p.m. FREE! www.oakhousedistillery. com
OPEN MIC Every Friday. The Root
8 p.m. www.therootathens.com
ALTWAVE Seasoned musicians covering rock, alternative and new wave tunes from the ’60s–’90s. South Main Brewing
6 p.m. www.southmainbrewing.com
JIM COOK High-energy solo acoustic blues, rock and country.
NORMA RAE Songs about the South that blend original lyrics with inescapably Southern vocals into an Americana sound.
LARRY’S HOMEWORK Four-piece Americana/roots rock band from Athens started by Stephan Eutsler and Pat Pensyl.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
8 p.m. $15. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
WAR ON WOMEN Feminist hardcore-punk band formed in Baltimore, MD in 2011.
J. ROBBINS Singer, guitarist and principal songwriter in several DCand-Baltimore-area post-punk rock bands since the late 1980s, most notably Jawbox, Burning Airlines and Channels.
HUNGER ANTHEM Local indie power-rock trio with an unabashed penchant for distortion drenched songs and a DIY punk rock ethos.
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. music.uga.edu
IT TAKES TWO Director Levon Ambartsumian is joined by UGA Wind Ensemble director and director of bands Nicholas Williams in
+ Bryant Perez, Jiig + Molly’Tu Hott, Squallé and Trepid (featuring Grandfath3er). The parade culminates in a dance party with The Booty Boyz, Fairez and DJ Ellwin, plus performances by League of Step, Danza Azteca and Belli Dance Company.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
RAUNCHER New project blending electronic, house and bass music.
SCHMUK Athens egg punk group.
OBSCURITY New local synth-punk duo.
KING LORD Sample-based dark techno for a post-god world. The Foundry
GRAINS OF SAND Effortlessly blending Carolina Beach, soul and Motown music, the GOS create a fresh and energetic sound that will have you feeling the warm sand between your toes again.
COREY SMITH A native of Jefferson, this country music artist is touring for his 11th album.
THE CHAMELEONS Formed in Greater Manchester in 1981, this recently reunited band is known for its atmospheric, guitar-based sound and shared its first studio release in 21 years earlier this year.
VISION VIDEO Catchy goth-pop and post-punk act based in Athens. DECEITS Passionate post-punk from Los Angeles.
MISS CHERRY DELIGHT NYCbased shock rocker with industrial, goth and hard rock melodies.
WILD RUMPUS PARADE & SPECTACLE Performers along the parade route include El ChupaSKAbra, Fishbug, Beast Mode, Woah Nelly, Nadia Vaeh, Karma Kat, Father Werewolf, Libbaloops
LEVI LOWREY Americana singersongwriter from Dacula who has toured extensively both solo and as support for bands like Mumford & Sons and Blackberry Smoke. Hendershot’s 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
AQUATIC SOUL TRIBUTE SHOW Soul music, Motown, R&B and blues.
DJ MAHOGANY Popular local DJ spins freaky funk, sultry soul, righteous R&B and a whole lotta unexpected faves.
Nowhere Bar 9 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens
CHANGE OF HEART Members of Classic City Jukebox and Pilgrim play a tribute to Tom Petty. CCRN’T A tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival. Paloma Park Wild Rumpus’ Midnight Howl AfterParty. 11 p.m.–2 a.m. FREE! www. wildrumpus.org
CARDYNAL & THE FLOCK An eclectic, multi-faceted producer, instrumentalist and vocalist intent on wearing their inspirations on their sleeves while delivering hardhitting, witty bars and unforgettably catchy hooks and melodies. BROASIS Local Oasis cover band. The Root 9 p.m. www.therootathens.com
SILENT DISCO Grab a pair of headphones, choose a music channel and dance the night away.
ULTRA LIGHTS Atlanta post-punk with early ’90s college rock and ’70s proto-punk influences.
BAYOU PRINCESS New local band.
Mai Kai Kava
8 p.m. www.athenskava.com
HALLOWEEN PARTY AND OPEN
DECKS Dance the night away and dress in your Halloween best for a costume contest.
Nuçi’s Space
Nuçi’s Space Jam. 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.nuci.org
A.D. BLANCO Local Athens alternative-rock band inspired by ’90s grunge and punk.
PATIO Local funk-rock band.
Ramsey Hall
3:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
REPERTORY SINGERS A mixed chamber choir directed by graduate student conductors.
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. music.uga.edu
TABLE FOR THREE AT CHEZ
JANAU Nine HHSOM faculty present an intimate evening of duos and trios, featuring Joaquin Turina’s “Piano trio #2 op.76, in D minor,” Paul Ferguson’s “Table for 3 at Chez Janau” and more.
RICKY MONTGOMERY Emotinged alt-pop artist known for his hit song “Mr. Loverman.” NEP Indie singer-songwriter who combines charming lyrics and melodies with a smooth voice. Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID Instrumental jazz group centered around the rollicking compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Luca Lombardi, Seth Hendershot and various guests. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
10 a.m. (Piedmont Athens Regional Performance for Young People), 7:30 p.m. $39-59. pac.uga.edu
BREABACH Contemporary folk act from Scotland that blends deep roots in highland and island tradition with the innovative musical ferment of their home base in Glasgow.
Normal Bar
8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com
OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.
Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/
NowhereBarAthens
DOWNSTAIRS Athens indie-rock quartet that is building a name for itself with high energy live performances.
NAYSAYERS Seven-piece indie rock band that incorporates elements of punk and pop into its lyrical ballads.
PARKING GARAGE Selfproclaimed “salt rock” band from Athens, now with trumpets.
WUOG
Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org
THE HOWDIES Old-school outlaw country act featuring vocalists Austin Darnell and Shoni Rancher. Swing by the station’s studio or tune in to 90.5 FM.
MARIGOLD AUDITORIUM FOR ARTS AND CULTURE BUY TICKETS NOW! thestudioath.com/tickets or scan for tickets
Book by DENNIS KELLY
event calendar
Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook. com/baddogathens
Tuesday 22
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person conversation. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy
Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
EVENTS: West Broad Farmers
Market and Garden (Athentic Brewing Co.) Vendors 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
EVENTS: Ballroom and Brews (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn a new ballroom dance style each month, then dance the night away. Fourth Tuesdays, 6–7 p.m. (lesson). 7–9 p.m. (open dance). www.athentic brewing.com
FILM: Cats 2 (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Attaboy Tapes presents the multimedia musical featuring live action, animation, puppets and original songs. 7 p.m. FREE! www. flickertheatreandbar.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens
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: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Trivia Night (Hi-Lo Lounge) Test your trivia knowledge. 8 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ hilolounge
KIDSTUFF: Crafternoon (Oconee County Library) Drop in for a craft or two. Supplies Provided. All ages. Tuesdays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: America in the World: Challenges and Opportunities (UGA Special Collections Library) UGA professors Gary Bertsch and Loch Johnson discuss the context of contemporary American foreign policy and international affairs. 4 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu
LECTURES & LIT: A New Era For Music and Art in Service of Community Healing (UGA Chapel) This lecture will show examples of work with children in flash points in Ukraine and the Middle East, and report on new technologies being developed for disabled artists. 4 p.m. FREE! shelley.downs@uga.edu
LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Join Dr. Penny Mills to discuss what books the group will read over the next year. 5:30–6:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Artist Talk & Book Signing (Avid Bookshop)
Author Neesha Powell-Ingabire will read from her newest book Come By Here: A Memoir in Essays from Georgia’s Geechee Coast. 7 p.m. $5. www.avidbookshop.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. Second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com
PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “Scared Stiff” with eight people sharing their creepiest true-life experiences. 7–9 p.m. $10. www. rabbitbox.org
Wednesday 23
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. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.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
EVENTS: UGA Arts Collaborative Launch Party (Athenaeum) The event will feature food, drink, welcoming remarks and a chance to learn more about the Arts Collaborative. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! art. uga.edu/uga-arts-collaborative
EVENTS: 777 Relief Fundraiser (MaiKai Kava Lounge) There will be an open mic and Korean barbecue food pop-up by Kyra’s Choice benefitting community kitchens in Gaza and Hurricane Helene relief. 7–11 p.m. Donations suggested. www. instagram.com/bulaatmaikai
FILM: Club Ned Anime Society (Oconee County Library) Join club members to watch and discuss episodes of “Paranoia Agent,” “Assassination Classroom” and “Domestic Girlfriend.” 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. animefandom.org
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1982 horror thriller film Litan 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatre andbar.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.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.
GAMES: Trivia Night (Normal Bar) Test your trivia knowledge. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/normal. bar.7
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: Parachute Playtime (Oconee County Library) Join the librarians for engaging parachute activities followed by open play. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. com/oconee
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Mania (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
Thursday 24
ART: Closing Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Artist Adam Void’s exhibition will be on view. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.com
ART: In Conversation (Georgia Museum of Art) Athens photographer Jason Thrasher and Chicago-based photographer Caitlin Peterson will converse in conjunction with exhibitions “Joel Sternfeld: When It Changed” and “The Artist as Witness.” 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
COMEDY: Roast Battle Round 3 (Onward Reserve) Local comedians will go head-to-head in a roast battle with winners advancing to the finals. 8 p.m. $10–15. www.athens comedy.com
COMEDY: Flying Squid Improv Jam (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Spirits of Athens Haunted Ghost Tour (The Foundry) Take a trolley tour with local haunted history expert Jeff Clarke and learn about the history of locations around the downtown area. Ages 21 & up. Oct. 24 & 27, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m. $48. www.athens trollytours.com
FILM: Outdoor Film Screening (Richard B. Russell Special Collections Library) Screening of the classic horror film The Brain from Planet Arous and archival clips from the Brown Media Collections with free popcorn. 6:30 p.m. FREE! libs. uga.edu
GAMES: Adult Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) All skill levels are invited to join the popular role playing game. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
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 Todd Henderson. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnys pizza.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Buvez) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens
KIDSTUFF: Open Play (Oconee County Library) Drop in for playtime that’s focused on encouraging early literacy and brain building. Ages
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in to free build and create, or do one of the fun LEGO challenges. Ages 5–12. Thursdays, 3:30–5:30. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Chapter Chat (Bogart Library) This month’s chat will feature Bunnicula by Deborah and James Howe with quizzes, trivia, snacks and more. Ages 8–12. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
KIDSTUFF: Tween Crafters (Oconee County Library) Work on a provided craft with the month’s special activity. Ages 8–12. Registration required. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Teen Studio: Mystery Masquerade (Georgia Museum of Art) Attendees will create masks then play a “whodunit” game involving clues around the gallery. Ages 13–18. Email to RSVP. 5:30–8 p.m. FREE! gmoatours@uga.edu
LECTURES & LIT: Across the Board Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. Fourth Thursdays, 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Photographer Jim Saah will share and discuss his photobook “In My Eyes: Photographs 1982-1997” and sign copies. 5 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
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 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Matilda JR (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) The Studio Athens presents a musical based on Roald Dahl’s timeless story performed by children ages 8–14. Oct. 24–25, 7 p.m. Oct. 26, 1:30 p.m. $12 (adv.), $15. www. thestudioath.com
Friday 25
COMEDY: Karen Morgan (The Foundry) Former Athens native Karen Morgan headlines with support by comedian Barbara Dooley. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $20–200. www.facebook.com/@ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA
COMEDY: The Hothouse (150 Fritz Mar Lane) True-to-life improv comedy inspired by audience suggestions featuring Bradley Bazzle, Jade Fernandez, Matt House and LeeAnn Peppers with opener Maggie Collette. 8 p.m. $10. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com
COMEDY: ASSSSCAT (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Flying Squid improvisers perform special longform improvised scenes as a farewell to guest mono-
EVENTS: On the Farm Field Day (Iron Lion Farm) The Regenerative Institute of Community Education will host demonstrations, workshops and exhibits educating beginning sustainable farmers and land owners. Registration required. 8:30 a.m. FREE! bit.ly/OntheFarmFieldDay
EVENTS: Athens Home Expo (The Classic Center) Learn about the latest in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living and more. Oct. 25, 12–6 p.m. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Oct. 27, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com
EVENTS: SJS Annual Fall Festival (St. Joseph Catholic Church) Enjoy carnival games, a dunk booth, hay rides, a cake walk, concessions and more. Games cash only. 2–7 p.m. FREE! www.sjsathens.org
EVENTS: Sip ’n Shop Date Night (Elations) Mingle and receive a free glass of wine with a valid ID. Last Fridays, 4 p.m.–12 a.m. www. shopstarship.com
EVENTS: Clarke County Sheriff’s Office Annual Fall Festival (Clarke County Sheriff’s Office Training Center) Familyfriendly event featuring trapeze performances, hay rides, a haunted house, cake walk, trick-or-treat bags and more. Oct. 25, 5–9 p.m. Oct. 26, 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/clarkecosheriff
EVENTS: Death & Mourning: Candlelight Tour (Athens Welcome Center) Explore how families mourned the loss of their loved ones during the Regency Era by touring a parlor and dining room adorned in mourning decor. Oct. 25, 5:30–6:30 p.m. $20. www. athenswelcomecenter.com
EVENTS: 11th Annual Haunted Hayride (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a spooky ride through the covered bridge and around the park as well as childrens activities, vendors and more. 6:30–10 p.m. $5. www.gastateparks.org/Watson MillBridge
EVENTS: Zumba ’80s Party (work.shop) Join this high-energy dance party in ’80s attire. 9:30 p.m. $12–15. www.d3fit.com/sd3-events
FILM: Movie Night in the Studio (Heart Stone Therapeutic Healing) Screening of Inside Out 2 with snacks and blankets. 5 p.m. FREE! www.heartstoneth.com
FILM: Hocus Pocus (Madison Morgan Cultural Center) Screening of the Halloween classic on the lawn with concessions and costumes encouraged. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www. mmcc-arts.org
GAMES: Chess Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Join others for a weekly chess competition. Fridays, 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.winterville center.com
GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Online: Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a new roleplaying game. New players welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
KIDSTUFF: Library Spooktacular (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in for crafts, games or to check out some spooky books. Costumes encouraged. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe
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
KIDSTUFF: Parents’ Night Out (Merritt Music Academy) Join us for a not-so-spooky night of music, pizza, games and more. Ages 6–12. 6–8:30 p.m. $25. www.meritmusic academy.com
PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Fabulous Fridays (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a fabulous night of drag entertainment celebrating Halloween with a costume contest. Ages 18 & up. 9 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirlcabaret.com
THEATER: Matilda JR (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture)
The Studio Athens presents a musical based on Roald Dahl’s timeless story performed by children ages 8–14. Oct. 24–25, 7 p.m. Oct. 26, 1:30 p.m. $12 (adv.), $15. www. thestudioath.com
Saturday 26
ART: Artist Talk (Winterville Cultural Center Gallery) Jasen Machen and Chris Young will share the inspiration and techniques behind their photography and woodworking pieces. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www. wintervillecenter.com
ART: Fall Pottery Sale (Caroline Montague Pottery) Caroline Montague, Mary Mayes and other potters will have a selection of items for sale. 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Call 706-340-9091 for more information.
ART: Family Saturdays: Art Workshop (Lyndon House Arts Center) A drop-in family-oriented series of art projects that are inspired by current exhibitions. 12–2 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com
CLASSES: Miniature Painting Workshop (Tyche’s Games) Bring your primed miniatures and learn the basics of painting them. $5. 1 p.m. www.tychesgames.com
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: 11th Annual Vulture Festival (ACC Landfill Outdoor Classroom) Celebrate “nature’s clean-up crew” and learn about the importance of vultures and the role of ACC’s landfill property with a bird walk, costume contest and more. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/vulture
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: Pumpkin Patch Fall Festival (Classic City Flowers & Nursery) Enjoy decorating stations, hayrides, s’mores, hot chocolate, a photo booth and haunted tea room. Oct. 26, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Oct. 27, 12 p.m.–6 p.m. $10/children, $15/ adults. www.classiccityflowers.com
EVENTS: Stash the Cash (Various Locations) Escape the Space celebrates its 10 year anniversary with a city-wide scavenger hunt with puzzles for a $100 cash prize. 10 a.m. FREE! www.escapethespace. com/cash
EVENTS: Bag of Books Sale (Front Porch Bookstore) Browse books for sale. Saturdays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. $10/bag. Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook
EVENTS: Athens Home Expo (The Classic Center) Learn about the latest in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living and more. Oct. 25, 12–6 p.m. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Oct. 27, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com
EVENTS: Mutt Strut: Best in Show (Athens Area Humane Society) There will be a dog talent show, agility course, costume contests, dog wedding ceremonies, vendors and activities. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $10. www.athenshumanesociety.org
EVENTS: West Broad Farmers Market Fall Festival (Rocksprings Park Pavilion) This annual fall festival will feature pumpkin painting, a photo booth, carnival games and more. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www. athenslandtrust.org/wbfm
EVENTS: Pumpkin Carving Contest (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Bring your own pumpkin or purchase one at the event to carve and enter into the contest for a prize. Supplies provided. 1–10 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/bulaatmaikai
EVENTS: Artisan Market (Oak House Distillery) Browse local vendors and participate in a pumpkin carving competition. 2–5 p.m. www.facebook.com/oakhouse distillery
EVENTS: Wild Rumpus Goblin Gathering Market (The Globe) Browse locally crafted art, decor and more then watch the parade from above. 2–11:45 p.m. www. globetavern.com
EVENTS: Trunk or Treat Adoption Event (ACC Animal Services) Enjoy trunk or treating, a costume contest and meeting animals up for adoption. 3–6 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/164/Adoption-Center
EVENTS: Fright on the Firefly (Firefly Trail) Dress up the entire family for a spooky stroll along the trick-or-treat trail. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.accgovga.myrec.com
EVENTS: Jittery Joe’s 30th Birthday Celebration (Jittery Joe’s Roaster Tasting Room) Celebrate with live music, face painting, food pop-ups, birthday cake and more. 4–7 p.m. FREE! www.jitteryjoes. com
EVENTS: Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle (Downtown Athens) All are invited to participate in the costumed parade marching through downtown and ending in a dance party. There will be a pre-parade rally at Creature Comforts Brewing Co. and after-party at Paloma Park. 5–8 p.m. (rally), 8–11 p.m. (parade & spectacle), 11 p.m.–2 a.m. (after-party). FREE! www.wildrumpus.org
EVENTS: Clarke County Sheriff’s Office Annual Fall Festival (Clarke County Sheriff’s Office Training Center) Familyfriendly event featuring trapeze performances, hay rides, a haunted house, cake walk, trick-or-treat bags and more. Oct. 25, 5–9 p.m. Oct. 26, 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/clarkecosheriff
EVENTS: 11th Annual Haunted Hayride (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a spooky ride through the covered bridge and around the park as well as childrens activities, vendors and more. 6:30–10 p.m.
$5. www.gastateparks.org/Watson MillBridge
FILM: Majority Rules (Ciné) Screening of the documentary about ranked choice voting with guest Mayor Kelly Girtz and a discussion to follow. 11 a.m. $12. www. betterballotgeorgia.org/athens_ majority_rules_screening
FILM: Blood Red & Black (Flicker Theatre & Bar) The Athens Film Festival presents an encore screening of horror shorts. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/athensga filmfest
GAMES: Day of Board Game Demonstrations (Tyche’s Games) Try new games and watch how they’re played. 12 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
KIDSTUFF: Library Spooktacular (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in for crafts, games or to check out some spooky books. Costumes encouraged. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe
KIDSTUFF: Halloween Art Camp (OCAF) Create eerie and enchanting crafts that celebrate the Halloween season. Ages 6–14. 10 a.m. $25 (OCAF members), $50 (nonmembers). www.ocaf.com
KIDSTUFF: STEAM Saturday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna and explore seasonal science experiments. 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen Maker’s Market (Oconee County Library) Browse handmade items made by local teens. Grades 6–12. 12–5 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Athens Creepy Crawl (Downtown Athens) This inaugural parade features trick or treating and a spooky scavenger hunt at participating businesses. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.3ravenstattoo.com/ creepycrawl
LECTURES & LIT: Commemorating Conroy (Bogart Library) There will be a presentation on author Pat Conroy’s life and work with readings, discussions, trivia and prizes. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart
THEATER: Matilda JR (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) The Studio Athens presents a musical based on Roald Dahl’s timeless story performed by children ages 8–14. Oct. 24–25, 7 p.m. Oct. 26, 1:30 p.m. $12 (adv.), $15. www. thestudioath.com
Sunday 27
ART: Closing Reception (Tiger’s Eye Gallery) Coleman Barks’ exhibition will be on view with a poetry reading by him and live music. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.tigerseyegallery. com
COMEDY: Comedy Open Mic (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Show up and go up with your stand-up material. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/bulaatmaikai
EVENTS: Big Jump Festival (Skydive Monroe) ESP’s annual family-focused fall festival will feature food trucks, inflatables, accessible activities and skydive watching. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. www. espyouandme.org
EVENTS: Athens Home Expo (The Classic Center) Learn about the latest in home improvement, remodeling, outdoor living and more. Oct. 25, 12–6 p.m. Oct. 26, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Oct. 27, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com
EVENTS: Pumpkin Patch Fall Festival (Classic City Flowers & Nursery) Enjoy decorating stations, hayrides, s’mores, hot chocolate, a photo booth and haunted tea room. Oct. 26, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Oct. 27, 12 p.m.–6 p.m. $10/children, $15/ adults. www.classiccityflowers.com
EVENTS: Historic Athens Heritage Walk (Contact for Location) Amy Andrews will guide an exploration of the history of Prince Avenue. Registration required. 2 p.m. $25. www.historicathens.com
EVENTS: Jack-O-Lantern Jog (Sandy Creek Park) A Halloweenthemed Goblin Fun Run and 5K benefitting Sandy Creek Nature Center. Costumes encouraged. 2 p.m. (Fun Run), 2:30 p.m. (5K). $25. www.sandycreeknature centerinc.org
EVENTS: Fall Festival (First Baptist Church) Enjoy games, prizes, a hot dog dinner, trunk or treat and more. 5–6:30 p.m. FREE! www. firstbaptistathens.org
EVENTS: Spirits of Athens Haunted Ghost Tour (The Foundry) Take a trolley tour with local haunted history expert Jeff Clarke and learn about the history of locations around the downtown area. Ages 21 & up. Oct. 24 & 27, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m. $48. www.athens trollytours.com
GAMES: Mario Kart 64 Tournament (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your skills and compete against fellow gamers. 2–6 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com
KIDSTUFF: Library Spooktacular (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in for crafts, games or to check out some spooky books. Costumes encouraged. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe
KIDSTUFF: Biggest Art Party Ever (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Bring a blanket, project, musical instruments or whatever you want to make and enjoy an art trading table and live music. 1–3 p.m. FREE! www.treehousekidandcraft.com
KIDSTUFF: Trunk or Treat Halloween Fest (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) Wear your costume and enjoy a cake walk, games, fire pit, free food and more. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.holycrossathens.com
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (Ciné) Poets James Crews and Claire Coenen will read from their works and discuss poetry as a compassionate practice. 2 p.m. $24.99 (book purchase required). www. avidbookshop.com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Monday 28
CLASSES: Improv Comedy Workshop (work.shop) Learn the basics of improvised comedy from Matt House. No experience required. 6:30 p.m. FREE! xmatthouse@ gmail.com
CLASSES: Paint & Sip (Oconee County Library) Follow a Dia De Los Muertos sugar skull painting tutorial with alcohol-free beverages. Registration required. 7 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
COMEDY: Kick-Back Comedy (Gyro Wrap) Trey Lissemore hosts a lineup of local comedians. The Upstairs Bar and Comedy Club. Last Mondays, 8 p.m. $7 (adv.), $10. www.instagram.com/theup_stairs bar
COMEDY: Open Mic (Wonderbar) Hosted by Owen Hunt, this is a traditional show up and go up comedy
EVENTS: Halloween Party (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Enter the costume contest and enjoy a dance party. 8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/bulaatmaikai
FILM: Club Ned Anime Society (Oconee County Library) Join club members to watch and discuss episodes of “Paranoia Agent,” “Kaguya-sama” and “Saiki-K.” 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.animefandom.org
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (LumberJaxe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens
GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge. 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
KIDSTUFF: Library Spooktacular (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in for crafts, games or to check out some spooky books. Costumes encouraged. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe
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: Tiny Tales at the Zoo (Memorial Park) Enjoy storytime, a craft and a chance to meet an ambassador animal up close. Ages 6 & under. Registration required. Mondays, 10:30 a.m. $3 (ACC resident), $5 (non-resident). www. accgov.com/myrec
KIDSTUFF: Tween Steam Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in and build your own creations with STEM toys. Ages 8-12. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
KIDSTUFF: Beginner Guitar Club (Lay Park Community Center) Learn the basic fundamentals of the guitar. Registration required. Every Monday. Ages 8–11, 5:30–6:20 p.m. Ages 12–17, 6:30–7:20 p.m. $10 (ACC resident), $15 (nonresident). www.accgovga.myrec. com
LECTURES & LIT: Fentanyl Dangers & Awareness (Athens Academy) Parent Angela King and former DEA Agent Armando Roche will discuss the dangers of fentanyl, access to Narcan and more. 12 p.m. FREE! kcuneo@athens academy.org
LECTURES & LIT: Script to Stage (The Classic Center) Hattie Thomas Whitehead will discuss her journey in adapting her book into a stage production and how other local authors can produce musicals and stage plays of their own. 6 p.m. FREE! Script to Stage on Facebook MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (1430 N Chase St) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.classiccityrotary. org
MEETINGS: Pen Pals Writing Group (Oconee County Library) Meet other writers, share your writing experiences and get feedback on your work. Second & fourth Mondays, 5 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
Tuesday 29
CLASSES: Harmony English Conversation Group (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Practice speaking English in a friendly environment (11 a.m.). Improve your American
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person conversation. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
EVENTS: Halloween Costume Party (Rocksprings Park & Community Center) Dress up and celebrate with Halloween activities. Ages 18 & older. 1 p.m. $1 (ACC resident), $1.50 (non-resident). www.accgovga.myrec.com
FILM: Fly Fishing Film Tour and Fundraiser (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join the Oconee River Chapter of Trout Unlimited for a film tour and fundraiser featuring nine short films about fly fishing from across the U.S. 6–9 p.m. $12. www.flyfilm tour.com
FILM: The Deliberate Stranger (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1986 true crime film based on Ted Bundy. 7 p.m. FREE! www. flickertheatreandbar.com
GAMES: Lunch and Learn New Games (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and try out some new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens
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: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Trivia Night (Hi-Lo Lounge) Test your trivia knowledge. 8 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ hilolounge
KIDSTUFF: Library Spooktacular (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in for crafts, games or to check out some spooky books. Costumes encouraged. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe
KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Drop in and join Ms. Jera for rhymes, songs, movement, a story and a craft. Ages 5 & under. 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Crafternoon (Oconee County Library) Drop in for a craft or two. Supplies Provided. All ages. Tuesdays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Gorgeous, Gruesome Gourds (Bogart Library) Join for gourd painting, a costume contest and spooky games. Ages 13–18. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Georgia Nonprofit Research Findings (UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel) The Interdisciplinary Alliance for Nonprofit Organizations will be sharing findings of a study on trends in employee benefits offered by nonprofit organizations. Registration required. 8:30 a.m. FREE! givepul.se/9le70v
Wednesday 30
ART: Gallery Guide Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) Gallery guide Phillip Bond will give a tour of Russian objects in the museum’s collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. 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
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.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
EVENTS: Beyond the Gates (Oconee Hill Cemetery) Take a twilight walking tour around some of the most historic graves in Athens led by Luis Vicente. 6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/athenshistoricalsociety
EVENTS: Monster Mash (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a spooky themed event with potions, snacks, games and more. Ages 11 & up. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
EVENTS: Love At First Fright (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of a mystery scary movie followed by a live podcast show with cohosts Curtis and Hannah. 7–10 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com
FILM: Klon’s Ghastly Horror Halloween Mix (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of spooky season films. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Trivia Night (Normal Bar) Test your trivia knowledge. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/normal. bar.7
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: Library Spooktacular (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in for crafts, games or to check out some spooky books. Costumes encouraged. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe
KIDSTUFF: Glow Story Read Aloud (Oconee County Library) Listen to a story in the dark with glow sticks, spooky headbands and a snack. Ages 3 & up. Registration required. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Mania (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.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
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 Dec. 15, Mar. 15, June 15 and Sept. 15. Apply online. www. athensarts.org/support
ART MART CALL FOR ARTISTS AND VENDORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Applications are now open for fine artists and craftspeople to participate in the indoor 2025 Art Market. All mediums welcome. Free to apply. $60 (vendor fee). Deadline Jan. 15. Event held May 17, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.lyndon houseartsfoundation.com
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 Apr. 20 for residencies beginning July 1 and Sept. 20 for residencies beginning Jan. 1. www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse 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 ARTISTS (ATHICA) JOKERJOKERtv and CreativeSpace invite livestreamers, podcasters, content creators, influencers and others to attend for the first “Creator Content Meetup” on Dec. 3. www. jokerjokertv.com
CALL FOR COLLECTORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The LHAC’s “Collections from our Community” series features unique collections of objects found in the closets, cabi-
art around town
1000 FACES (510 N. Thomas St.) Recent abstract paintings by Hannah Jones. Through November.
ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1500) “Murmur Trestle: Photographs by Jason Thrasher” shares images from a new book of photos taken during different seasons over the course of six years. • “Grit Portraits: Paintings by Tobiah Cole” includes portraits of some of the artist’s friends from his many years at The Grit.
ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) In “Fission Or, Eclipse,” New York-based artist Rose Salane uses seemingly mundane objects to explicate systems of evaluation, exchange and organization that shape daily life. Through Nov. 23.
ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) Evan Michael Bush’s “Death Becomes Him” includes a whimsical and macabre series of oil paintings depicting dapper skeletons alongside spooky pen and ink illustrations. Through Nov. 2.
ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) “COMPULSION: 2024 Juried Exhibition” features contemporary art in all media from across the country and beyond. Artists’ Roundtable Discussion, Nov. 24, 4–6 p.m. Currently on view through Nov. 24.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Garden of Dreams” features photographs by Austin Emerson, whose darkroom-based practice centers the alchemy of the process in the resulting images. Through Oct. 25. CLASSIC CENTER (300 N. Thomas St.) On view in Classic Gallery I, “Legendary Georgia Musicians in Watercolor” is Jackie Dorsey’s homage to musicians who have called Georgia their home. • In Classic Gallery II, “Linnentown Then and Now: The Johnsons” includes portraits by Caroline Ford Coleman.
DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) In “Shape Shifting,” Dodd MFA alum Joe Camoosa uses images from his favorite sketchbook to present a colorful grid. Through Nov. 7. • The 2024 Margie E. West Prize Winner Exhibition, “Hong Hong: Inland,” examines the body as a closed ecological system, where various materials continually interact to sustain and regenerate itself. Through Nov. 7. • “Gabrielle Barnett: Desirable” explores the internalization of fatphobia. Through Nov. 7. • “Samuel Horgan: Endoscope” stages a series of encounters with subterranean space through scale models, drawings and video. Through Nov. 7. • “MEAT-a-physics” considers Western domesticity through meat and domestic objects that function as symbols for the individual. Through Nov. 7.
DONDEROS’ KITCHEN (590 N. Milledge Ave.) Susan Pelham’s collages are inspired by Magic Realism, Surrealism, nursery rhymes, fables and more. Through October.
FESTIVAL HALL (201 N. Main St., Greensboro) The “Georgia Watercolor Society Member Exhibition” features around 80 watercolors by artists from across Georgia and the Southeast. Through Oct. 26.
FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) The annual Halloween art show features spooky works by Dan Smith, Marisa Mustard, Rachel Burnham, Will Eskridge, Sara Kirkpatrick, Jesse Blalock, David Mack, Joey Weiser, Tim Root, Lenny Sandvick and others. Through October.
nets and shelves of Athenians. Email if interested in displaying your collection. shelby.little@accgov.com CALL FOR PUBLIC ART: LINNENTOWN (Athens, GA) Professional artists are invited to submit qualifications for consideration for public art on Linnentown Lane. A suitable public art installation will be a sculpture of landmark scale, viewable from the road, and will serve as a visual icon of the injustice that occurred at the site of the Linnentown community in the name of urban renewal. Deadline to apply Dec. 6, 5 p.m. accgov.com/10597/ Call-for-Public-Art-LinnentownLane
CIGAR BOX CHALLENGE (ATHICA)
Seeking artists to decorate cigar boxes for a creative fundraiser benefiting ATHICA. Cigar boxes will be sold for $60 each. Participating artists will be eligible for cash prizes and an artist perk package. Deadline Dec. 8–9. Event held Dec. 14. bit. ly/cigarboxchallenge
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 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., 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
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 in the 1840s. Through Dec. 1. • Shot through the windows from inside Waffle House restaurants across the Southeast, Micah Cash’s photographs in “Waffle House Vistas” contemplate the built and natural environments. Through June 1. • “Mind the Gap: Selections from the Permanent Collection” explores the spaces between tradition and innovation in art. Through Dec. 1. • “Joel Sternfeld: When It Changed” includes portraits taken at the 2005 United Nations Climate Change Conference. Through Dec. 1. • “The Artist as Witness” includes works from the museum’s permanent collection that serve as visual responses to Joel Sternfeld’s exhibition. Through Dec. 1. • “On Wonder and Witnessing at Tallulah Falls” places a 1841 painting by George Cooke alongside contemporary photographs by Caitlin Peterson. Through Jan. 12.
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.) Paintings by Marisa Mustard. Through October. • Nirvinyl Album Art presents “Room by Room (Part two): Living Room/Dining Room.” Through Nov. 15.
HOTEL INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Vivian Liddell shares “Athens Landscapes,” a series of monotypes based on photographs taken around town over the past several years. Through November.
JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Susie Criswell presents a collection of bold nature paintings. Through November.
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. • Leonard Piha’s solo exhibition features mixed-media sculptures set within one-gallon glass jugs, drawing on the deep history of bottle whimseys, an art form spread in the U.S. by self-taught craftsmen. Through Nov. 15. • Collections From the Community presents Ahndhi Stitcha’s VHS tape collection. Moving Screening Nov. 7, 6 p.m. Through Nov. 16. • “Inspired: Artworks by Students of the Clarke County School District Inspired by Athens Creatives” was envisioned as a way to foster a connection between local artists and students. Through Jan. 18. • In “We Are All Kinda Floating,” Atlanta-based artist Jamele Wright Sr. creates monumental textiles that center the traditions of Black American vernacular experience and merge sculpture, painting, fiber and techniques applied from graffiti and quilting. Reception and Artist Talk Nov. 14, 6 p.m. On view Oct. 26–Dec. 28. • “Self-Preservation” is a solo exhibition spotlighting the works of Jaci Davis, the recipient of the 49th Juried Exhibition Arts Center Choice Award. Reception and Artist Talk Nov. 14, 6 p.m. On view Oct. 26–Dec. 28.
OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) Lisa Freeman’s exhibition “So Much More” addresses the limitations frequently imposed on women in a patriarchal society. Closing Reception Nov. 1, 5–7
for ACC-funded public art commissions. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels
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
ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 and up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. FREE! marjoriemiller@gmail.com
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 abstract art in drawing (Oct. 27 or Dec. 1), house portraits in gouache and watercolor (Nov. 13 and Nov. 20), calligraphy (Nov. 17), watercolor (Dec. 1), pet portraits in acrylic (Dec. 4 and Dec. 11) and holiday postcards in watercolor (Dec. 10 or Dec. 12) and gouache (Dec. 14), . Register online. www.kaartist.com
BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade, Washington) A variety of blacksmithing classes include “Forge a Railroad Spike Knife” (Oct. 25 or Nov. 8), “First Time at the Forge: Three Hook Rack” (Oct. 26 or Nov. 16), “Forge a Firepoker” (Nov. 1), “Forge Christmas Ornaments” (Nov. 2 or Nov. 15), “Forge a Tomahawk”
(Nov. 9) and “Forge a Medieval Flail” (Nov. 22). Classes held 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. www.greenhow handmade.com
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
COOKING CLASSES (Athens Cooks) Upcoming classes include “Sushi 201” (Nov. 2), “Date Night: Autumn Short Rib Dinner” (Nov. 7), “Korean BBQ” (Nov. 13), “Thanksgiving Workshop: Herb Roasted Turkey & Trimmings” (Nov. 20) and “Thanksgiving Workshop: Savory Sides” (Nov. 21). Classes held 6–8 p.m. $103/class. Register online. www. athenscooks.com
DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and tap. Lunch time classes are available for adults including “Pilates & Dance Conditioning” on Wednesdays at noon. www.accgov.com/myrec
MINDFUL SPIRIT WORK (Sangha Yoga Studio) Rebecca Shisler Marshall leads a four-week program blending mindfulness, shamanic journeying, connection with spirit guides and hypnosis to deepen your self-awareness and spiritual connection. Begins Oct. 28, 5:30–7 p.m. $125. bit.ly/mindfulspiritwork PÉTANQUE CLUB OF ATHENS (5 Alumni Dr.) Learn to play Pétanque. RSVP for a free Wednesday introduction. athenspetanqueclub@
p.m. • This year’s annual juried exhibition “SouthWorks” was juried by William Eiland, who served as director of the Georgia Museum of Art from 1992–2023. Through Nov. 1.
OCONEE LIBRARY (1925 Electric Ave., Watkinsville) Members of the Athens Area Plein Air group share their works. Through Oct. 30.
OX FINE ART (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1700) Artwork by the late Art Rosenbaum, a painter, muralist, professor, and collector and performer of traditional American folk music.
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 series of hand-carved coconut vessels.
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. Through 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 and Clint Zeagler. Through Jan. 4.
TIGER’S EYE GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1600) Celebrated poet, Rumi translator and UGA professor emeritus Coleman Barks shares a collection of new works on paper alongside pieces by Ben Rouse, Mark Magnarella, Marla Star, Jamie DeRevere, Jessica Magnarella and Noah Mendelson. Poetry Reading and Closing Reception Oct. 27, 4 p.m.
TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) “Disposable Society: Adam Void” includes art by a multidisciplinary creator from Black Mountain, NC, inspired by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Closing Reception Oct. 24, 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. 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. Through December. • “Bulldog Olympians” celebrates over 200 UGA athletes who have competed for Team USA or their home countries through photographs and artifacts. Curator Talks Nov. 15 and Nov. 22.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS CLEMENTS GALLERY (780 Timothy Rd.) Lori Hammer presents “Enhanced Paintings from Photos.” Through Jan. 2.
WINTERVILLE CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY (371 N. Church St., Winterville) “First Annual Juried Exhibition” featuring selections from the gallery’s inaugural juried show. Through Oct. 30. • “Wonders of Watercolor” including works from the W.O.W. OCAF artists group. Through Oct. 30.
WINTERVILLE LIBRARY (115 Marigold Lane, Winterville) Leslie Guo’s exhibition, “Colors of Water,” explores the fluid beauty and endless possibilities of water as both subject and medium. Through Nov. 1.
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. Sessions held Nov. 1 or Dec. 11, 9–11:30 a.m. qpr@nuci.org, www. nuci.org/qpr
RUBBER PEOPLE SOUL YOGA (work.shop) Cal Clements teaches classes that include gratitude, breath, flexibility poses, strength building and some chanting of Om. Mondays and Wednesdays, 10–11:30 a.m. Donations accepted. www.rubberpeoplesoulyoga.com
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 through Nov. 24, 3–3:45 p.m. (No class Nov. 3, Nov. 17) FREE! www. ugasalsaclub.com. TIMBAthens hosts “Level 2: Partner Work & Foundations of Rueda I” for students who want to learn Cuban style. Held at YWCO Sundays through Dec. 15, 4:30–5:25 p.m. $10/class. www.timbathens.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. liveoak martialarts@gmail.com, www.live oakmartialarts.com
YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Revolution is a multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering yoga and therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed practices. Check website for upcoming classes and programs. www.revolutiontherapy andyoga.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
YOGA TEACHER TRAINING (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Kelsey Wishik leads a 200-hour Yoga Alliance approved Embodied Wisdom Yoga Teacher Training program combining the holistic practice of yoga with contemporary, traumainformed techniques. Nov. 16–Apr. 4. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga. com
Help Out
CALL FOR FORMAL WEAR DONATIONS (Oconee Library) The library is accepting donations of any formal wear and accessories for its annual Bling Your Prom event as well as the Purple Women Corporation partnership program with the Athens Area Women’s Shelter’s One Night with the King event. www.athenslibrary.org/location/ oconee
HOLIDAY TREE (Athens, GA) ACC Landscape Division is seeking a donated tree to place in front of City Hall for the holiday season. Must be at least 35 feet high and 20 feet wide. 706-613-3561
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
PET FOOD PANTRY (Animal Services Adoption Center) The Animal Services community pet food pantry provides pet food to ACC residents at no cost. Donations always welcome. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sundays, 12–3 p.m. www.accgov.com/adoptioncenter
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
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
TRAIL GUIDING (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Volunteers lead small groups of children on hikes around the nature center trails and emphasize the lesson for the day by incorporating things found on the hike. Register online. accgov. givepulse.com/event/379177-TrailGuides-Training
Kidstuff
ART CARD CLUB FOR PRE-TEENS AND TEENS (K.A. Artist Shop) Draw, paint, collage and create your own collection of art cards. Materials provided. Fridays, 6–7:30 p.m. $28/drop-in, $200 (10 classes). www.kaartist.com
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
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
Support Groups
BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP
(St. Mary’s Hospital, 5th Floor Therapy Room) This support group for survivors of traumatic
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
FALL CLASSES (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Treehouse offers a variety of art-centric activities for children, such as “Art School,” “Toddler/ Baby Process Art,” “Digital Art Designer,” “Open Studio,” “Art School Junior,” “Saturday Morning Crafts” and more. Check website for schedule and details. www. treehousekidandcraft.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,
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
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
CALL FOR PHOTOS (Athens, GA)
Submit water or nature-themed photos taken in Athens-Clarke County to be considered in the Stormwater Management Program’s annual calendar. www.accgov.com/ stormwater
DIAL-A-POEM (Athens, GA) Call 762-400-POEM (or 762-400-7636) to hear selections from Athens current Poet Laureate Mikhayla Robinson Smith and inaugural Poet Laureate Jeff Fallis. www.athens culturalaffairs.org
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
DOWNTOWN PARADE OF LIGHTS (Downtown Athens) Seeking floats and performing units for this year’s annual holiday parade. This year’s theme is “Run, Run Rudolph.” Prizes awarded. Deadline Nov. 5, 5 p.m. Event held Dec. 5. www. accgov.com/parade
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 FREE MEDICAL CLINICS (Nuçi’s Space) Free medical clinics are
available to people without insurance through the AU/UGA Medical Partnership. Call to reserve a spot. Translators available. Nov. 4 and Dec. 2. 706-227-1515, www.nuci. org/additional-health-services
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
TURNTABLE REVOLVING LOAN FUND (Athens, GA) The Joint Development Authority of AthensClarke County and the City of Winterville has created a new program to provide low-interest, 30-month loans for small businesses. www. investathensga.com
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
WINTER 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. Registration begins Nov. 2 (ACC residents) or Nov. 4 (non-residents). www.accgov.com/myrec f
Three new murals by Will Eskridge at Heritage Park in Watkinsville provide bat myths and facts. Funded by Keep Oconee County Beautiful, the murals were unveiled during an inaugural Bat Festival on Oct. 14.
REAL ESTATE
HOUSES FOR RENT
3BR/2BA house in Normaltown, quiet interior street. Central heat/air. Furnished. Hwd floors. Washer/dryer. Driveway/on-street parking. No smokers, pets. Calls only! 706-372-1505
HOUSES FOR SALE
Looking for a house or a home? Condo or land? Call
Daniel Peiken. REALTOR 5Market Realty. Selling in and around Athens for over 20 years. 706-296-2941
Get Flagpole delivered to your mailbox!
Only $65 for six months or $125 for one year. Purchase at www.flagpole.bigcartel. com or call 706-549-0301.
FOR SALE ELECTRONICS
Car Stereo. Kenwood DDX57075. Never used. In original packaging. Only $100. Receiver and DVD player. Call Beaumont 913269-1793.
ESTATE SALE
Estate Sale: Sat. Oct. 26, 10am-1pm. Text 706-2027515 for address. Preview items: tinyurl.com/estateoct 26. Women’s clothing sizes 0-4 also available. Cash or Zelle only!
MISCELLANEOUS
Business Water Solutions offers the cleanest drinking water available through innovative bottle-less water coolers and ice machines. 706-248-6761 or business watersolutions.com to set up a consultation. Need old papers? We have plenty here at Flagpole! Call ahead and we’ll have a crate ready for you. Please leave current issues on the stands. 706-549-0301
MUSIC
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Nuçi’s Space is always accepting and selling used gear and instruments. All profits go toward our mission of ending the epidemic of suicide. Visit nuci.org/ rewired.
INSTRUCTION
Athens School of Music. Now offering in-person and online instruction in guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, banjo, mandolin and more. From beginner to expert, all styles. Visit www.athens schoolofmusic.com. 706543-5800
INSTRUMENTS
For Sale: guitars and other stringed instruments. All in excellent condition. Some new. Most with cases or gig bags. Also numerous pedals. Flexible pricing. Contact Beaumont 913-2691793.
Sell your musical instruments in the Flagpole Classifieds! Call 706-549-0301 to place an ad.
MUSIC SERVICES
Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428
Advertise your musical service in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-549-0301.
SERVICES
HOME AND GARDEN
Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden clean-up/maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706-395-5321.
JOBS PART-TIME
Join a diverse, inclusive workplace and get paid to type! 12–40 hours, Mon–Fri. NEVER be called in for a shift you didn’t sign up for. Must type 65+ wpm. Make your own schedule and work independently with no customer interaction. Starts at $13 with automatic increases. www.ctscribes. com
Seeking PT research assistant. $15/hour to start to investigate local traffic fatality information. Email resume to: vintagelumber@ gmail.com.
VEHICLES
AUTOS
For Sale: 2009 Nissan Murano SL, Ivory, very good condition, LOADED, maintenance records. 165K miles. Eastside. $4750. 706-2065552 text only.
NOTICES
ORGANIZATIONS
If you are in crisis due to domestic violence, call Project Safe for help 706543-3331. project-safe.org
Flagpole ♥s our advertisers, donors and readers!
Juvenile Offender Advocates. Seeking volunteer advocates and interns to make a difference in a juvenile offender’s life. juvenile offenderadvocateinc.org
Join the VFW Post 2872 for Bingo Night every Thursday at 7pm. Win up to $1,650! 835 Sunset Dr. Athens, GA Registration is open for the Classic City Marathon, Athena Half Marathon, and the Marathon Relay on Jan. 25, 2025. classiccity marathon.squarespace.com
The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia accepts food donations between 8am-3pm Mon-Fri. Volunteer opportunities available! foodbank nega.org
Purchase online at www.flagpole.big cartel.com, call 706-549-0301 or email frontdesk@flagpole.com.
