OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene
CLASSIFIEDS Jennifer Keene
AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson
CONTRIBUTORS Gordon Lamb, Ed Tant, Matthew Pulver, Ross Williams
CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser
CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe
EDITORIAL INTERN Mary Beth Bryan
PHOTOGRAPHERS Mason Pearson, Jake Zerkel
SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons
STREET ADDRESS: 220 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30601 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603 EDITORIAL: 706-549-9523 ·
A little over a year ago, Pylon Reenactment Society shared a music video for the song “3 x 3” in anticipation of the band’s debut album, Magnet Factory, which was released in February via Strolling Bones Records. Wednesday, Dec. 4 the band shared a karaoke-ified version of the bouncy postpunk song that was almost lost to time. See “Flagpole Premieres: Pylon Reenactment Society, ‘3 x 3 (Karaoke Version)’” at flagpole.com.
Pylon Reenactment Society
Arena Opening Put on Ice
PRINCE AVENUE BIKE LANES APPROVED AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
The Classic Center canceled the grand opening of the new Akins Ford Arena just hours before the Rock Lobsters hockey team was set to drop the puck for its first home game Dec. 6.
The arena was unable to obtain a certificate of occupancy from the Athens-Clarke County fire marshal due to a faulty fire panel, the Classic Center announced that Friday afternoon. The news set off a round of recriminations, with the Rock Lobsters putting the Classic Center in hot water and the Classic Center pointing a claw at contractor JE Dunn.
“The continued postponement raises concerns about Akins Ford Arena’s ability to fulfill its lease agreement with the Athens Rock Lobsters, placing a shadow of uncertainty over the remainder of the season,” the team said in a release. “The organization remains committed to finding solutions and providing the best possible experience for its players and fans, but the delay poses significant challenges as the team looks ahead.”
Asked how the delay would affect the facility’s long-term relationship with the team, Classic Center President and CEO Paul Cramer replied, “It doesn’t help. We’ve had a great relationship with them. Not being able to open the arena is devastating.”
Cramer acknowledged that the delay puts the team in a tough spot financially. Not only have the Rock Lobsters lost out on ticket revenue from home games, they’ve incurred significant travel expenses playing on the road for 11 straight games.
But Cramer expressed confidence that the fire issues will be resolved soon, even though the contractor could not iron out the issues last Friday. The fire marshal was scheduled to return for further inspections on Monday and Wednesday. “I hope we’ve run down those issues by then,” Cramer told Flagpole “We’ve been working with them for quite a while, and a lot of progress has been made. However, at this time the fire alarm has not been fully tested for them to safely open the building,” Fire Marshal Rick Vaughn told the Athens Banner-Herald “With a fire alarm system, it’s complicated, and as large as this facility is, it takes hours and hours to fully test the system.”
Cramer said he anticipated that the Rock Lobsters could hold their home opener as soon as this Friday. A B-52s and of Montreal concert scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 14 was still on as of press time, as was a free community celebration the afternoon of Dec. 15.
Tickets for the two postponed games will be honored once those games are rescheduled, as will tickets for a black-tie gala that had been scheduled for Dec. 8. A Rock Lobsters welcoming ceremony previously scheduled for the afternoon of Dec. 6 will likely be pushed into January, Cramer said. The $151 million arena has already experienced several delays. It was originally scheduled to open in August, then November, and now has been pushed back again, even if only for a matter of days. “At the end
of the day, safety comes first, and it always has to come first,” Cramer said.
Bike Lanes, LGBTQ Resolution Approved
Athens-Clarke County commissioners voted unanimously to make the bike lanes on Prince Avenue permanent, while a resolution declaring Athens a “safe haven” for the LGBTQIA+ community also passed but proved somewhat more controversial.
The commission voted 8–0, with commissioners Allison Wright and Tiffany Taylor absent, to replace the temporary “zippers” and flex poles protecting cyclists on Prince Avenue with a permanent barrier. A commission-defined option from Wright, Jesse Houle, Dexter Fisher and Melissa Link instructed ACC staff to consider a more visible barrier than a concrete curb, and to look at ways to improve traffic flow and visibility for drivers on side streets in the area.
Dozens of people spoke for nearly two hours at the Dec. 3 commission meeting in favor of both the bike lanes and the LGBTQ+ resolution. In particular, transgender residents said they felt under threat after an election in which the Trump campaign fearmongered against trans people. No one spoke against the bike lanes, and only one—former mayoral candidate Bennie Coleman—opposed the resolution, citing his belief that God created men and women.
Commissioner John Culpepper voted against the resolution because, he said, it only protects one class of people. His opponent in the 2022 election, Allen Jones, who is gay, was among those who spoke in favor of it.
Commissioner Ovita Thornton also voted against it, saying she no longer supports resolutions in general. “I just have too many bad memories of resolutions that we’ve passed in the past, that we did not anticipate the collateral damage maybe one or two or three years later,” she said, possibly referring to a 2019 resolution pronouncing Athens to be a welcoming community for immigrants, which conservatives pointed to after Laken Riley’s murder, falsely claiming it made Athens a sanctuary city.
The commission tabled another resolution asking the state legislature to allow cities and counties to implement rankedchoice voting, avoiding the need for costly and often low-turnout runoffs. (Only 161 people voted in a recent runoff for a Clarke County school board seat.) Thornton said she needed more information on the topic, and Wright, Culpepper and Commissioner Mike Hamby agreed. Mayor Kelly Girtz broke the 4–4 tie, explaining that legislators usually won’t consider acting on such resolutions unless they are unanimous.
In other business, the commission unanimously approved a 60-home subdivision on Shadybrook Drive that faced certain defeat in September, until Houle convinced colleagues to allow the developer to with➤ continued on next page
draw it. If voted down, the proposal could not have been resubmitted for a year.
Thornton Pleads Down DUI Charge
Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Ovita Thornton reached a plea agreement last week in a DUI case that will not require her to serve jail time.
Thornton pleaded nolo contendere, or no contest, to a charge of reckless driving on Nov. 25, meaning she accepted the charge without admitting guilt. An amended accusation the ACC solicitor’s office filed in September stated that she “did drive a vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety of persons and property after consuming alcohol.” She paid total court costs of $675, including a $400 fine. Charges of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failure to maintain lane and violation of duty upon striking a fixed object (hit-and-run) were dropped.
Thornton was arrested in February 2023 after crashing her car into a utility pole on Hancock Avenue. At the time, police said that she resisted arrest and refused to take a Breathalyzer test. Her blood was sent to a Georgia Bureau of Investigation lab to be tested for prescription drugs, but not alcohol.
A second DUI charge against Thorton was dismissed in February because prosecutors said they lacked the evidence to prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. In April 2023, Thornton’s car struck a curb at a downtown bank, and she was arrested on a charge of driving under the influence of drugs. Her lawyer, Doug Leinhart, blamed the crash on a medical issue.
Seven Schools Qualify for Vouchers
Families with children at seven Clarke County public schools are eligible for private school subsidies under the Promise Act, a voucher program the Georgia legislature passed earlier this year.
The program offers families $6,500 vouchers for private school or home-schooling expenses if their children attend a public school where College and Career Readiness Performance Index scores are in the bottom 25% of schools statewide. In Clarke County, those schools are Gaines Elementary, Holston (formerly Alps Road) Elementary, Stroud Elementary, Whit Davis Elementary, Coile Middle, Hilsman Middle and Cedar Shoals High.
CCRPI is a comprehensive index involving standardized test scores that measure content mastery, closing achievement gaps and year-to-year progress, as well as other factors like attendance and graduation rates for high schools, used to evaluate school performance. The Promise Act rankings released by the state Department of Education last week are based on the 2023-2024 school year.
According to a CCSD news release, the district is working to improve CCRPI scores by introducing standardized curricula for literacy and math, and by addressing the needs of a transient population where children frequently move and change schools.
“We look forward to tackling the challenges that remain for our students who are still recovering educationally from COVID-19,” Superintendent Robbie Hooker said. “We have an aggressive plan and look forward to sharing that plan—and the work ahead— with families and our community in the coming months.”
The Promise Act was controversial because it will take up to 1% of state funding away from public schools, many of which are already underfunded. In addition, critics say the $6,500 will not be enough for low-income families to pay for private school tuition, making it primarily a subsidy for middle- and upper-class families. Supporters—almost all of them Republicans—say it will give families at poorly performing schools a choice to pull their students out. The program will serve an estimated 21,000–22,000 families statewide.
CCRPI scores rose at 13 of CCSD’s 21 schools last year but remained below the state averages, according to data released by CCSD last week. f
Holiday Gift Books DINOSAURS, DESEGREGATION AND MORE RECOMMENDATIONS
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
It’s the holiday season, and this year Christmas and the beginning of Hanukkah coincide on Dec. 25. During the upcoming holidays or at any time of the year, books make lasting gifts to give or receive, plus they’re easy to wrap, and they don’t break if you drop them. Here are just a few books new and old that I find relevant, entertaining and informative.
Children’s books are popular this year and every year. One that captivated me as a kid in the 1950s was The Shy Stegosaurus of Cricket Creek by Evelyn Sibley Lampman. Originally published in 1955 and still popular today, it’s the story of 12-year-old twins, Joey and Joan, who go fossil hunting, and instead of long-dead fossils they discover a living, breathing— and talking—dinosaur, a stegosaurus that they call George. The children and the saurian share adventures and observations that leave readers of all ages misty-eyed but smiling at the end of the dinosaur’s tale.
Astronomer Adam Frank’s The Little Book of Aliens is a concise and refreshingly witty look at the age-old question of life on other worlds. Frank combines solid science and informed speculation into a book that is readable and revealing. His book appealed to me since my initials are E.T., my mom told me to phone home, and I often feel alienated. Readers of The Little Book of Aliens will find the latest scientific information on a subject that has haunted humankind throughout history.
Though written more than 30 years ago, The Worst of Times by Patricia G. Miller is sadly relevant in today’s times of continuing attacks on women’s rights to reproductive freedom. In her book, Miller told the stories of women who endured illegal abortions in the dark days before the procedure became legal, and she reminded readers of women who died after back-alley abortions. Her book from the past could be a chilling portent for the future of women in America.
The 1960s and ’70s were unforgettable times of politics and culture that still evoke feelings of nostalgia or revulsion from millions of Americans today. The number of books about that memorable era would fill a library. One of the best is Sixties Going On Seventies by Nora Sayre. With a keen reporter’s eye, Sayre brought to life the sights, sounds, smells and sensations of the ’60s from the perspective of one who was there. Her book takes readers back to those tempestuous times in a style that still crackles with the immediacy of history as it happened.
History’s hand touched Athens in 1961 when two Black students enrolled at the University of Georgia. Robert A. Pratt’s We Shall Not Be Moved: The Desegregation of the University of Georgia is the story of that event. Pratt is a professor of history at the university, and his book is a mustread account of the white supremacy and violence directed against integration at the university.
Not far from Athens, in the town of Monroe in 1946, four African Americans were murdered near the infamous Moore’s Ford Bridge by killers who were never brought to justice. Writer Anthony S. Pitch told the story of that crime in The Last Lynching: How a Gruesome Mass Murder Rocked a Small Georgia Town. Published 70 years after the Moore’s Ford killings, The Last Lynching is a murder mystery that still has no ending.
Bestselling author John Grisham is no stranger to murder mysteries, but the latest book from the prolific writer is all too true. Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions, by Grisham and co-author Jim McCloskey, is a tense and timely collection of 10 stories of innocent citizens caught up in a judicial snare and the long struggles it took to free them from injustice.
On a much lighter note, Ken Jennings— host of the popular game show “Jeopardy”—has just published 100 Places to See After You Die: A Travel Guide to the Afterlife This mordant but mirthful look at what might be next is sure to appeal to fans of the recent Beetlejuice movie.
During the holidays and every day, books show what writer Sir Richard Steele meant when he wrote, “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” f
Child Care Costs
By Ross Williams news@flagpole.com
Getting someone to watch your kid is expensive, but it could be getting cheaper in Georgia. The state Senate’s Committee on Affordable Childcare heard its final testimony in a hearing at the state Capitol last week and is expected to release its findings for next year’s session later this month.
The federal measure of affordable child care is 7% or less of one’s income, but caring for an infant costs more than 7% of the median income in 142 of Georgia’s 159 counties, according to the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. That can mean young moms staying out of employment or education during their children’s early years, and kids missing out on socialization and learning.
If someone’s getting rich from daycare centers, it’s not the teachers watching the kids, said Jana Fox, owner and director of the Learning Treehouse in Rincon. She said her staff is all highly trained and passionate about teaching and caring for youngsters, but the work is hard, and it’s hard to offer pay competitive with other sectors.
“The truth is that child care small business owners like me are struggling,” she said. “Our staff are working harder than ever, but we are constantly at the risk of losing them to higher paying jobs in other fields, and finding new qualified teachers to replace them has become almost impossible. We need flexible funding to continue supporting our teachers, not just to retain the incredible staff we have, but to recruit and train new teachers who are just as passionate about early childhood education as our current team.”
GBPI’s Director of Economic Justice Ife Finch Floyd told senators the state’s share of the cost for child-care services has been mostly flat for the past couple decades. In the current fiscal year, the state’s share is $72 million, while the federal share is $268 million. Floyd recommended the state use a chunk of its $11 billion-plus surplus to create a child care trust fund like other states, including New Mexico, have done.
improving the reimbursement rates to providers through a new cost model that assumes a minimum wage for providers of $15 an hour.”
According to GBPI’s figures, which assume a 7.9% annual return and a 6% yearly payout, a $1.5 billion initial investment could pay out $1 billion in the first 10 years, while a $4 billion initial investment would yield nearly $2.8 billion. But the plan would require amending the state constitution, which would mean two-thirds majorities in the state House and Senate, then approval by Georgia voters in a ballot referendum.
“I recognize this is not an easy lift, no constitutional amendment is, but if the legislature can get it done, it would be a generational investment in child care, and really the type of investment that the state requires to meet the need,” Floyd said.
Brockway said the configuration of the state’s Child and Parent Services Program, or CAPS, which helps low-income families with child-care costs, can influence people not to seek higher-paying jobs or to get married because a boost in income could be canceled out by less assistance with pricey child care.
Brockway suggested solutions including re-examining regulations, prioritizing informal daycare and instituting a child support requirement for CAPS similar to the one that is already in place for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. That could mean the state taking part of the CAPS payment from a noncustodial parent.
“Under TANF, a single parent must seek child support from the noncustodial parent,” Brockway said. “There are certainly circumstances where it’s not possible to collect child support, and the program notes those exceptions, but there must be a good faith effort to support it. This would reduce costs for the single parent, but also weaken the disincentive against marriage.”
Sen. Elena Parent (D-Atlanta) questioned whether that could leave custodial parents with less money for other child-rearing costs. “I get that, except the child support has to cover all the costs related to raising the child,” she said. “How do you say it can only be for that one thing when there’s so much, as we know, so many things involved in raising a child?”
“In New Mexico, they were able to expand eligibility to 400% of the federal poverty line,” she said. “That’s about $99,000 for a family of three. So they are trying to reach not just those families with low levels of income, but families with middle levels of income as well. They are also doing things like reducing the co-payments for families and also
Buzz Brockway of the Georgia Center for Opportunity said government involvement with child care has caused prices to rise dramatically. “Over the past 30 years, daycare inflation has outpaced general inflation by 88% as measured by the consumer price index,” said the former Republican state lawmaker. “No other price level or safety net program has increased this much. As you can see, it’s increased more than the cost of rent, more than the cost of medical care.”
“It wouldn’t have to use it all, but I think using some of that money, at least, could help,” Brockway said. “If it’s going into the household budget, this is just allocating it differently, prioritizing it differently so that the CAPS dollars go farther.”
Parent also expressed skepticism of prioritizing informal child care, which could include anything from professional nannies to neighbors who watch multiple young children in their home for money.
“This informal care, I feel like we would need to know a lot more about what exactly you have in mind, and then how that dovetails with our knowledge of trying to get kids ready for school, which we already have some pretty big challenges with,” Parent said. “With brain development being so critical at birth to 5, I just would have a lot of questions about what exactly that means.”
Committee Chair Brian Strickland, a McDonough Republican, expressed optimism that the legislature will take action to help struggling parents in the new session, set to start Jan. 13. “What we’ve done is started a very serious conversation about this with our friends up here at the state Capitol, and I hope you’ll see some substantial policy moves in the coming year, some investments in the state budget for child care, affordable child care in our state,” he said. f
This story was originally published in the Georgia Recorder.
The Story of the Stockade, Part 1
HOW ATHENS REINVENTED SLAVERY AND ROSE IN WEALTH
By Matthew Pulver news@flagpole.com
Athens’ old City Stockade, perhaps fittingly, finds itself trapped. In limbo, in obscurity, the building is now, in a way, subject to the confinement it was meant to impose.
Sequestered away in the farthest back corner of Normaltown in a no-man’s land squeezed against the Loop, the stockade and its story have been largely locked away. Unlike so many of the notable Athens buildings that seem to insist they have a story to tell, the old stockade appears stolid and mute. But the stockade tells us a story of Athens—a story of the city’s growth and modernization, a story of bitter oppression and the struggle for freedom.
tions, but it was on Jan. 1, 1900 that Clarke County opened its first stockade, a less ambitious facility to precede the eventual city stockade. The stockade would be the site to enforce Alexander’s social and labor control.
The central distinction between a stockade and a jail (Athens would have both) is that convicts in stockades were made to work. The 13th Amendment had not abolished slavery entirely: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude… shall exist within the United States,” reads the amendment, “except as a punishment for crime.” As Douglas Blackmon has detailed in his Pulitzer Prize-winning Slavery by Another Name, Southern whites found this loophole large enough to return hundreds of thousands of Black Southerners to a form of slavery virtually indistinguishable from the brutal forced labor the white South had been briefly denied after their Civil War defeat by the North and the United States military.
For the better part of the 20th century, the stockade was a jail. Thus, it is a building whose story consists of the lives it held only briefly. For that reason, its story is difficult to tell.
Nor does the building’s appearance help its case. Looking like something of an accident or afterthought at Boulevard’s terminus, the all-white structure can strike one as almost sickly or lost, reminiscent of a beached whale left to fester, skirted in recent years by a scrum of buses in its service as depot for the county fleet. In a city full of compelling buildings, structures, landmarks and monuments, the old stockade is strikingly featureless and drab. “City Stockade, Built Entirely of Concrete,” boasted an ad from contractor H.L. Stewart in the Athens Daily Herald in 1914 under a photo of the austere structure. “Everything Concreted, Both Interior and Exterior, Excepting the Doors.” It’s never going to win a beauty contest.
The Birth of Prisons
Clarke County’s stockades allow us a prism through which to view Athens during a period of enormous change and growth at the dawn of the 20th century. It would be a period in which Southern whites sought a return to brutal racial power through the system of laws and imprisonment. “By 1900, the South’s judicial system had been wholly reconfigured to make one of its primary purposes the coercion of African Americans to comply with the social customs and labor demands of whites,” explains legal scholar Michelle Alexander. The century’s opening saw the relatively amorphous state of post-emancipation race relations harden into the legal apparatus of an apartheid state, euphemistically called “Jim Crow.” A series of developments culminating in the Plessy v. Ferguson ruling in 1896 set the stage for the 20th century to be a dark one.
So, as the 20th century opened, law enforcement in the South was largely intended to do two things: maintain a system of white control and extract free labor from Black detainees. Rarely does history offer clean, sharp delinea-
Countless Black Southerners would be pulled back into a system of slavery often more brutal than its earlier form. And here in the midst of the Second Industrial Revolution, this new slavery of the 1900s would be of a more modern character. Athens was leaving the quiet agrarian age of the 19th century and rocketing toward modernity. The first automobile appeared in Athens in 1899. The Wright Brothers’ first flight in 1903 was followed closely by Athens’ Ben Epps, who pioneered flight in Georgia just a few years later. The Murmur trestle, completed in 1883, at long last properly connected downtown Athens to the modernizing global economy, and Athens was, in 1900, becoming something almost unrecognizable from its sleepier self of the 19th century. This new Athens, and its new wealth, is what its Black inhabitants would be made to build and yet excluded from sharing in.
The acceleration underway in 1900 was unique in the city’s history, before or since. “The building boom of the 1880s and 1890s continued unabated into the early twentieth century, as much of downtown assumed a character and appearance little changed today,” writes Frances Thomas in A Portrait of Historic Athens and Clarke County. Much of the Athens skyline we’re familiar with was built during that first decade of the century. The city organized the Chamber of Commerce in 1903 to guide the unprecedented expansion, and by the end of the decade the Athens Banner would proclaim Athens “one of the largest cotton markets in the world.”
New advances in agricultural methods had made the surrounding area rich in cotton, and Athens was the place where those regional profits were realized, the entry point of the global supply chain. Athens soon had 12 cotton manufacturing plants, a cotton oil refinery, two oil mills and three fertilizer plants. Athens was, by 1910, “handling more wagonloads of cotton than any other town in Georgia,” according to the Banner. Money poured in. The population was quickly on its way to doubling. New banks opened to handle the new wealth, new stores and merchants multiplied, and modern electric lights soon illuminated the downtown of this pulsing hub of commerce.
Roads to Serfdom
What Clarke County did not have was efficient, passable roads to fully integrate into the modernizing supply chain on which Athens’ growing wealth was dependent. This was
a dirt-road county, and this modern economy didn’t run on dirt roads. County leaders saw the economic imperative in laying all-weather, hard-surface roads to move all of these new goods. But the going way of paving roads was endlessly arduous, with few modern machines available to crush quarried stone into gravel or to physically grade the land of the roadways. Then you had to lug the tons of crushed stone over scores of miles of road and commence this whole new process of macadamized roads, or layering different grades of crushed stone to form a durable hard surface. If railroads were the arteries for this new economy, roads “might be considered as the capillaries or feeders” to engage with the beating heart of capitalism and “just as vital to the satisfactory working of the system,” explained Scientific American in 1908. But while the existing dirt roads of Clarke County required only “moderate annual expenditures,” the magazine reported, these new macadamized roads demanded far larger outlays. “The increased expenditure has been so great as to justly alarm the authorities throughout the country responsible for the use of the roads.” The era’s labor victories made waged work of this sort prohibitively expensive. “In these days of high-paid labor and short working hours one rarely hears in this country of macadam stone being broken by hand,” reported Scientific American. However, “it is true that in some of the states prison labor may be used for this purpose.”
The South had, by now, effectively reinvented slavery, and Athens’ white leaders quickly sought ways to tap back into forced labor for this hardest work. “The working of convicts on the public roads is a new scheme in Clarke county, but it is believed it will succeed,” read a local paper on the eve of the stockade’s opening. It was made clear that the stockade had one primary purpose: to house forced laborers, as many as could be gotten. “It is not profitable to work less than twenty convicts at a time,” worried the Banner. It was not crime that inspired this expansion of the local carceral system, but the work that could be gotten from chained men. Just as with slavery, this meant buying men to drive. Simply building the stockade was an immediate boon, as it meant 53 men at a forced labor camp in Elbert County would be imported to Clarke to build roads. Athens was not alone in this rediscovery of slave labor. More and more Black men across Georgia would be swept up into the dark system on the flimsiest of charges, when there were identifiable charges at all. One might be abducted into this system for simply “leaving the farm of an employer without permission,” explains Blackmon. “Vagrancy” became a catch-all charge to bring more and more men into this carceral slavery. Just the suspicion of a Black man being involved with a white woman was enough to land him in a forced labor camp. f
Read Part 2 in the next issue of Flagpole or visit flagpole.com.
The Athens City Stockade now sits empty at the Athens Transit bus depot at the end of Boulevard.
A chained prisoner at the Athens City Stockade in the early 1900s.
MUSIC | WED, DEC. 11
Styrofoam Winos
Nowhere Bar • 8 p.m. • $12
Hailing from Nashville’s DIY scene, Styrofoam Winos are an exploratory folk trio composed of Joe Kenkel, Trevor Nikrant and Lou Turner. The group is known for a musical synergism that comes as a byproduct of its members’ tightknit friendship. The three rotate vocals and instruments regularly on stage, cultivating a communal energy for live audiences that mirrors the van life attitude they live by offstage. The band’s Athens show is the penultimate stop on a U.S. tour supporting the release of its sophomore studio album Real Time. Aquarium Drunkard contributor Chad Depasquale describes the record, which was cut live to tape, as “an endearing and invigorating collection of shaggy Southern rock and dusty, woolen folk.” Styrofoam Winos will be joined by local acts Little Gold and Winston Barbe, as well as Cash Langdon, who is on tour from Birmingham, AL. [Mary Beth Bryan]
MUSIC | FRI, DEC. 13
Burchfield Family Christmas
Madison-Morgan Cultural Center • 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show) • $25
A Burchfield Family Christmas is returning this holiday season to bring audiences well-known favorites from Vince Guaraldi and Burl Ives, along with deep cuts from Paul McCartney, Chuck Berry and Marvin Gaye. The event features performances from Sam Burchfield and his wife, Pip the Pansy, and Cicada Rhythm. Sam Burchfield’s solo music consists of Southern Appalachia-inspired Americana, psychedelia, indie folk and Southern rock. He also works with a touring band called The Scoundrels. Pip the Pansy is a flute player and indie-electronica artist known for incorporating colorful installations into her live performances. Cicada Rhythm is a husband-wife folk duo whose music contains expressive guitar picking and captivating harmonies. These performers will also be joined by Madison resident drummer, percussionist and producer Colin Agnew. [MB]
MUSIC | FRI, DEC. 13
Sunny War
Flicker Theatre & Bar • 8 p.m. (doors) • $12 Armageddon in a Summer Dress is the upcoming release from LA-based folk-punk musician Sunny War via Athens label New West Records. The record follows her critically lauded 2023 release, Anarchist Gospel, and features a number of guest appearances, including Valerie June,
Tré Burt, Kyshona Armstrong and more. The album’s first single, “Walking Contradiction,” features Steve Ignorant of the legendary British punk band Crass (whom War counts among her favorite bands) and serves as a critique of late-capitalist America. She believes the line between folk and punk is thinner than people might expect, saying, “To me it’s the same kind of music. If you’re into punk for the lyrics and the message, there’s definitely a lot of old-time music that has that spirit. Folk used to be very anti-es-
other markets and studio sales you can shop at this holiday season. [MB]
ART | SAT, DEC. 14
Cigar Box Challenge
ATHICA • 7 p.m. • $10 (adv.)
tablishment.” Sunny War’s Athens show will be opened by Newport Transplant and Cannon Rogers. [MB]
EVENT | DEC. 14–15
Indie South’s Holiday Hooray
Bishop Park • 10 a.m. • FREE!
Holiday Hooray is Athens’ largest modern makers market and Indie South’s biggest event of the year, featuring creations from over 150 local and out-of-town makers, artists and vintage curators. Vendors range from leather workers to artists to jewelers, including businesses like Oriskany Glass, McShawns Gem Works, John Lundy Sculpture, Bohemian Spirit Glass, Textile and Twin, An Awkward Soul and more. Many vendors are coming in all the way from Asheville, where Indie South has recently built up a following. There will be food from Speakcheesy, drink vendors, music and free makers stations, as well. The kids activity booth is also returning for the first time in a few years, including photo ops with Santa and the Grinch. Check out Flagpole’s Holiday Market Roundup to see what
Over 90 artists have transformed cigar boxes into works of art to help raise money for ATHICA at the gallery’s holiday art sale benefit. For a $60 donation, attendees can take home one of these never-before-seen creations while helping to fund ATHICA’s quest for free expression. Treasure gift boxes of goods and services from favorite local businesses will also be available to take home in exchange for a donation. Cigar box artists include Meg Brownstone, Lisa Freeman, Sam Balling, Klon Waldrip, Vivian Liddell, Didi Dunphy, Nat Blooming, Jaci Davis, Jon Swindler and more. The event will also include live music from Don Chambers, George Davidson and the finalists from a “King of the Road” singing contest. The Taco Loco food truck will be on site as well. [MB]
EVENT | DEC. 14–15
Inaugural Concert and Community Grand Opening
Akins Ford Arena • $39.50–249.50 (Sat), FREE! (Sun)
A state-of-the-art entertainment venue boasting a 8,500 capacity, the new Akins Ford Arena is officially open with a variety of events already on its schedule, such as Disney on Ice, the Harlem Globetrotters and Monster Jam. This Saturday, Dec. 14 at 8 p.m., the arena will host its first-ever concert with The B-52s—whose hit song “Rock Lobster” inspired the hockey team’s name—of Montreal and DJ Cummerbund. On Sunday, Dec. 15 from 1–4 p.m., the arena will host a free Community Grand Opening with ice skating, face painting, holiday treats, a chalk art contest and other activities. As of press time, those events are moving forward despite the postponement of the Rock Lobsters hockey team’s home opener and a black-tie gala last weekend (see City Dope on p.5 for more). Visit akinsfordarena.com for upcoming events. [Jessica Smith] f
Sunny War
JOSHUA BLACK WILKINS
Motion Sickness of Time Travel’s Zodiac
PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
OUR FAVORITE YEAR: Motion Sickness of Time Travel, one of the multiple fruitful projects of experimental composer and musician Rachel Evans, has worked for a year on the upcoming album Zodiac. The recording began a year ago, when Evans began composing a new piece each astrological season (i.e. one per month). These pieces, totaling about 38 minutes, are
intended to be heard sequentially but with no breaks, and that’s exactly how they’re presented digitally; the vinyl version must be flipped between Virgo and Libra. That said, there are some substantial differences in these groupings. The first is generally much harsher, but not violently so, and very heads-down in a workman’s type of way. The second is sprightly, bright, peaceful and shimmering. It’s a fantastic set of work to close out the year, in any case. This is released on Dec. 21 and preorders for tapes, CDs and vinyl LPs are happening now at hookervision.bandcamp.com.
THAT’S BOSSMAN TO YOU: Saxophonist Dwan Bosman is the special guest performer at the upcoming instance of The Segar Jazz Affair at Hotel Indigo’s Rialto Club Sunday, Dec. 15. An in-demand performer, Bosman has three decades of experience under his belt, and this should be a spectacular time for those in attendance. This evening will feature two sets of music (6:30–7:30 p.m. and 7:45–8:45 p.m.), and doors open at 5:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $15, and they’re $20 at the door. This show is presented by Segar Jazz and Aubrey Entertainment. For tickets, please see bit.ly/SegarJazzDec15, and for more information, please see facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA.
ALBRIGHT, ALBRIGHT, ALBRIGHT: It’s been more than nine years since I mentioned Halem Albright in this column and, even then, I never spoke about his actual music. Since that time, Albright and his Halem Albright Band have made some solid inroads in the Atlanta area. The band released its latest full-length, Blue Moon Confessions, back in late September. It would be a little reductive to peg this offhandedly in the jam band
category even though that wouldn’t be entirely incorrect. More specifically, though, this song-oriented album stretches into jazz (“Neighbor Take Flight”), yacht rock (“Lost In The Breeze”), spaghetti western (“Cheyenne”), gospel (“Burgundy and Gold”) and clever indie (“Werewolf On Strike”). This breakdown reads like the album is just a pastiche of styles, but that’s not really the case, as these all gel together in a reasonable way that sees the band stretching its arms, not seeking an identity. Find this on all major streaming services, and for more information, please see halem albright.com.
STEAL MY SUNSHINE:
Continuing the run they started a year ago in September, punk aesthetes Sunshine Crooks have cranked out another two songs under the release title Cured In Rum. The first, “Obey,” is every bit the 1980s-style punk criticism of consumer/Baby Boomer culture. “Dead” follows in similar execution and sentiment (“I don’t wanna be dead/ But I wanna be dead to you”). This is raw, like four-track-demo raw, and is as mixtape ready as anything in recent memory. Find this and so much more over at sunshinecrooks.bandcamp.com.
ABANDON HOPE: Musician James Owen, known primarily in this column for his project Doom Ribbons, just released a remastered version of his 2003 Doom Ribbons album Funeral Palace. If you’re undecided as to where he’s coming from aesthetically, please note that among the items listed as having been played by him are “bottles, breaking, smashing, screaming.” That said, the most crucial instrument here is his piano. It enters and leaves with little regard other than a sense of necessity and, indeed, drives much of the mood here. It can shift on a dime, too, as evidenced about halfway through “HOPE for hopelessness.” It’s at its most percussive and, perhaps, operatic on “schick sal.” None of which is to say this is a mellow piano record. Far from it. It’s dark and disturbing and uncomfortable. It is its own long winter’s nap replete with its own nightmares. And it rules, too, so find it at doomribbons.bandcamp.com.
PLUGGED IN: I don’t have the first clue who electronic artist uriel (stylized in lowercase) is, but that hasn’t stopped me from diving head-first into the newly released 11-track album erebidae. It starts off with the semi-digital hardcore and glitchy instrumental “.txt // intro” before sliding headlong into the smooth, electro R&B of “Sedated.” Underneath all its digital-electro dressing, this is largely a hip-hop and pop album full of hooky songs with a solid beat like “rusted” and “campfire song.” Find this at urielprod.bandcamp.com. f
Are You a Phase of the Dark?
PHANTOM DAN RELEASES POP-PUNK INSPIRED EP
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Nogeneration has yet to escape the powerful pull of nostalgia, and millennials have embraced a rebirth of alternative styles like emo and pop-punk. There’s not only a large market of music listeners, but also people seeking community around this resurgence. Athens transplant Dan Lacasse has successfully navigated this landscape to bring together his personal interests, meet like-minded people and create music under the Phantom Dan moniker.
The recently released EP Are You a Phase of the Dark? is a culmination of Lacasse finding his way back to creating music and channeling it as a means of catharsis. He described this project as “a collection of songs that have to do with when you’re not in the right space and how to purge that.”
Moving around the country to join different bands, the New Hampshire native found himself in Atlanta. When his band at the time called it quits, years of building burnout led him to taking a break from music. Lacasse and his wife, Jenna, decided to take a “life reset” and travel around the country for a year in an RV. Acclimating back to society and moving to Ellijay, Lacasse had a renewed itch to create music again, but no music scene within a reasonable distance.
Eventually the couple explored Athens and decided to make it their home in 2018. After a year of settling in, Lacasse found a tribute show at the Caledonia Lounge with local bands covering My Chemical Romance and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Not knowing much about Athens’ rich music history but finding some musicians with mutual interests, Lacasse decided to form the party band That’s Rad and perform pop-punk covers around town.
“One of the biggest things for me was making personal connections with the people that were there. That’s been the real recipe for having good events is fostering a community where everyone is welcome,” says Lacasse. “Phantom Dan, a big reason that it exists is because of the community that I started with That’s Rad. Which has been abso-fucking-lutely amazing. So it’s not here without it.”
ence that I had in years. I was just unloading every thought that was ever in my mind… I had come up with the verse to ‘Bad Habits,’ the first song on this new EP. Now I had the first piece of art that I was excited about in years.”
“Bad Habits” has a variety of influences, from the nu metal crossover of hip hop and rock to more traditional pop-punk. The hip-hop undertone made Lacasse decide to invite his neighbor Anthony Hill, also known as musician and producer P.O. the Priceless One, over to listen to the new track. Ultimately Lacasse asked Hill to write a piano intro to the song. Continuing the spirit of collaboration and community, Lacasse invited a group of people he met through shows over to his house to record gang vocals for the project. The effect brings that live show energy and feel to the recorded song.
“This is quite a dark record lyrically. It’s really about being in a bad spot mentally, and like you having to be the one that excuses yourself but also kicks yourself in the ass and saves yourself,” explains Lacasse.
Lacasse decided to launch his original solo project Phantom Dan with an EP called Keep On Moving as a personal creative outlet. After performing an acoustic version of the EP on a whim for a friend’s show, the compulsion to write was reignited. He set out with an agenda and careful plan to write a new EP, only to find five months later that he didn’t connect with any of the songs. Bogged down by work and feeling disconnected from his music, Lacasse began to spiral into a depression.
One night Lacasse was messing around with one of the songs in his recording software and caught a beat that inspired him to pour out a stream-of-conscious freestyle literally for hours.
“It was just coming out like when those women speak in tongues at church,” says Lacasse. “It was the most cathartic experi-
Although the Phantom Dan EP release show already took place mid-November, you can catch Phantom Dan performing his full EP as the opening set of A Very Rad Pop Punk Xmas III at the 40 Watt Club on Saturday, Dec. 14. Also on the lineup are three tribute performances by That’s Rad (Blink-182), Murder the Mood (My Chemical Romance) and Nadia Vaeh (Paramore/ No Doubt). There will be an ugly Christmas sweater contest, giveaways and other shenanigans, plus a toy drive. For tickets and more info about the show, visit 40watt. com. f
WHO: A Very Rad Pop Punk Xmas III WHEN: Saturday, Dec . 14, 8 p m (doors) WHERE: 40 Watt Club HOW MUCH: $10 (adv .), $15
Zodiac by Motion Sickness of Time Travel
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Welcome to the second edition of flagpole’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide. To be included in next year’s edition, contact the Flagpole Advertising Department at 706-549-0301 or ads@flagpole.com.
Athens Community Council On Aging
135 Hoyt St. accaging.org
Help us ensure that all older adults in our community age well. A gift can provide a blanket to keep warm ($20), transportation to the pharmacy, grocery store, or medical appointments ($10), a week’s worth of meals ($50), or 1 day of care at our Adult Day Health Center ($65).
Athens Cooks
100 Prince Ave., Ste. 103 athenscooks.com
Give the gift of culinary joy with top-quality kitchen essentials like America’s Test Kitchen Winners Ankarsrum Mixers (made in Sweden), Le Creuset Dutch Ovens, and staff personal favorite Peugeot Salt & Pepper Grinders. All available in a variety of colors! The knowledgeable and friendly staff at Athens Cooks will help you find the perfect holiday gifts for all experience levels.
Special holiday hours through December Mon.–Sat. 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Aurum Studios Ltd.
125 E. Clayton St. aurumstudios.com
Aurum Studios Ltd. has been an Athens destination for fine jewelry, art, and pottery since 1975! Shop their beautiful selection of unique items, like this 18K gold, tsavorite, and diamond ring by Michael Michaud, beautiful handmade mountain pendants by Courtney Pendergrast, and these stunning bronze earrings with pearls by Melanie Morgan.
Big City Bread Cafe
393 N. Finley St. bigcitybreadcafe.com
Treat your loved ones and celebrate your love of Big City Bread with gift certificates in any denomination. Super easy to purchase online or in person. Delicious sweets trays feature assorted mini cookies, sweet bars, and chocolate truffle stars. Call or email bigcitycafe@yahoo.com to order (with 48 hours notice) for your holiday celebration.
Holiday Market Dec. 12 & 13, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Athens Art and Frame
1021 Pkwy Blvd., Ste. 111 athensartandframe.com
Custom framing is a thoughtful and personal option for gifting, whether it’s any kind of artwork, heirloom, or a photo printed for you via the easy photo uploader at athensartandframe.com! While you’re there, check out their unique selection of Athens/ UGA gifts and local artwork!
See website for Custom Framing cutoff deadlines for the holidays.
Athens Spirits Co.
athensspiritsco.com www.website.com
Athens Bourbon–After years of research, a pre-Prohibition bourbon legend is reborn. A liquid gold double-finished with wood from a century-old pecan tree harvested in Five Points. Deliciously smooth with layers of brown sugar, candied pecans, and dark chocolate. This Limited Edition Bourbon is only available in Athens, Georgia! $39.99/bottle.
Available at package stores throughout Athens
Bear Hug Honey Company
193 E. Clayton St. bearhughoney.com
Bear Hug Honey Company has more than just an incredible selection of local and international honeys! They also have a huge array of gift items, such as this Gift Box for Her with vanilla bean honey, artisan soap, and honey lip balm, and hats for the discerning Dawgs fan.
Open Tues.–Sat. 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Canopy Studio
160-6 Tracy St. canopystudio.org
Give the gift of aerial dance with kids winter camp, adult workshops, and classes for all ages. Check out the new bungee classes for ages 16 and up! Perfect for all abilities with no experience necessary. Wrap up a Canopy gift certificate and water bottle this holiday season!
Ciné
234 W. Hancock Ave. athenscine.com
Give the Gift of Ciné! Located in the heart of downtown Athens, Ciné is the premier spot to see the best independent films anywhere in the Classic City! Give a gift certificate or even better, give a membership for perks like discounted ticket prices for every show and free popcorn!
Classic Citiva
2361 W. Broad St., Ste. 10
IG/FB: @classiccitiva
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Welcome to the second edition of flagpole’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide. To be included in next year’s edition, contact the Flagpole Advertising Department at 706-549-0301 or ads@flagpole.com.
The Classic Center
Happy holidaze from Classic Citiva, Athens’ favorite hemp store! Light up all of the holiday parties with Pop’s Socks cannabis leaf socks, High Rise THC and CBD-infused seltzers, and Hit the Hayz gummies. Say “Flagpole Gift Guide” at checkout for 15% off these items through 12/24/2024 (terms and conditions apply).
Open Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m.–5 p.m. Close early at 6 p.m. on Dec. 14 and at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Closed on Christmas.
Festival Hall
201 N. Main St., Greensboro, GA festivalhallga.com
Treat loved ones to a holiday gift of treasured memories and amazing musical performances! On Thursday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m., Joe Gransden and his 10-piece band will be joined by special guest Robin Latimore for a swingin’ holiday show at Festival Hall in historic Downtown Greensboro. Act now before tickets sell out! General Admission, Premium, and VIP tickets available.
Hendershot’s Coffee
237 Prince Ave. hendershotsathens.com
Support your favorite local spot and spoil your family and friends by gifting house-roasted Christmas Coal coffee for the naughty and the nice, the new Hendershot’s 12 oz. mug, Hendershot’s private label Fug Widit hot sauce, and cozy Hendershot’s sweatshirts.
Gift Cards available.
440 Foundry St. classiccenter.com/iceskating
Athens on Ice public ice skating returns outdoors this season at the 440 Foundry Pavilion at the Classic Center. Lace up your skates and joins us for 75 minutes of holiday fun! Tickets are only $15 and include your skate rental. Groups of 10 or more are eligible for $12 tickets.
Dynamite Clothing
143 N Jackson St.
IG:@dynamiteathensga
Located downtown since 2001, Dynamite is filled with well-curated vintage clothing and accessories for everyone. They offer a variety of hats, sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets to keep you warm and fashionable. If you love vintage, Dynamite has you covered!
Open daily from 12 p.m.–6 p.m.
Frog Pond Shop
Sandy Creek Nature Center www.website.com
The Frog Pond Shop at Sandy Creek Nature Center has something for everyone! Shop their variety of nature themed ornaments, enjoy challenging puzzles like this 3-D T-Rex, and choose from lots of plush friends like this cuddly Wolf Cub.
Open Tues.–Sat. 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.,
Indie South
470 Hawthorne Ave.
theindiesouth.com
Indie South has all the unique gifts one needs! Indie carries 150 small brands; selections include fragrant shower steamers, a field journal for foraging, and this beautiful triple-moon herb chest.
Holiday Hooray event in Bishop Park Dec. 14 & 15
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Welcome to the second edition of flagpole’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide. To be included in next year’s edition, contact the Flagpole Advertising Department at 706-549-0301 or ads@flagpole.com.
The Junkman’s Daughter’s Brother
175 E. Clayton St.
An Athens institution for almost 40 years, Junkman’s - now housed within Cillie’s on Clayton St. - continues to be a beloved source for gifts that are clever, unique, hilarious, and bizarre. Kit Cat Clocks to brighten any room, Dancing Bear dog toys, and an elegant “Jar of F#%ks to Give” are just a few of the many wonders you might find.
Olive Basket gift sets are available in a variety of combinations, including Olive Oils, White or Dark Balsamic Vinegars, or a combination of Oils and Vinegars. Choose one of their pre-made combinations or design your own from over 50 oils and vinegars.
Gift wrapping available.
The Pearl Girls
548 Hawthorne Ave. thepearlgirls.com
Kristi F. Patrick Travel Advisor
kristipatrick@travelmation.net
Classic Pearls for the Classic City! The Pearl Girls are your local pearl experts. Stop by for one-of-a-kind gifts like Bulldawg Pearl Earrings or a Classic Cultured Pearl Necklace for your special someone this holiday!
Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
State Botanical Garden of GA Gift Shop
2450 S. Milledge Ave. botgarden.uga.edu
The Gift Shop at the State Botanical Garden offers a variety of festive gifts and decorations! Handmade wool ornaments, Santa boot planters for your plant enthusiast, and birdhouse cottages made from birdseed are sure to bring joy this holiday season. Gift shop and market merchandise will be 25% off from Dec. 18-23.
Shop the Winter Market at Winter WonderLights. Gift wrapping available.
Give the gift of treasured memories and unforgettable experiences like Disney Cruises, Spring Break escapes, and all-inclusive summer vacations. Local Travel Advisor Kristi F. Patrick offers free booking and consultation for personalized and hassle-free travel planning for your next big adventure.
Holiday Market Dec. Dec. 12 & 13, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Pain and Wonder
285 W. Washington St. painandwonder.com
Pain and Wonder, a long time Athens Favorite, is proud to offer T-shirts, enameled pins, and gift certificates for any amount that can be used at any of their three locations.
Available for appointments and walk-ins throughout the holiday season.
Stanfield Air Systems
1130 Mitchell Bridge Rd. stanfieldair.com
Give the gift of clean air this holiday season with a Reme Halo In-Duct Air Purifier. As Athens’s most trusted Heating and Air Conditioning contractor, they’ve seen how these remarkable devices work silently inside your house’s ductwork to remove pollutants and allergens from the air and kill germs and viruses like the flu and COVID.
Installation is included with your purchase.
Santa Claus and the Virgin Mary
By Dr. Jerry Brinegar a.co/d/6AE3cqf
In Santa Claus and the Virgin Mary, local author & therapist Dr. Jerry Brinegar investigates religion’s dual role as humanity’s blessing and burden at a time when democracy is at a tipping point. Dr. Brinegar challenges religious orthodoxy across world religions and offers the reader a guide to examine their own beliefs.
Available in digital and print on Amazon.
The Cottage
3019 Lexington Rd. northgeorgiacottage.org
Donate to support the work of The Cottage, which provides free support services to survivors in our community. Make a donation as a gift to a loved one and give the gift of healing to those affected by sexual violence and child abuse.
The Cottage operates a crisis hotline 24/7, year round. That number is 877–363–1912
Urban Sanctuary
810 N. Chase St. • 1348 Jordan Dr. urbansanctuaryspa.com
The Lightroom
355 Oneta St., Ste. D500B thelightroom-ath.com
Spark creativity this Christmas at The Lightroom! Surprise someone special with a gift certificate for studio time or gear rentals in Athens. Whether for podcasting, photography, or filmmaking, The Lightroom offers affordable, inspiring spaces and equipment to bring ideas to life. Book now and make creativity the highlight of the season!
Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Available by reservation outside regular hours.
Woodhill Artists Market
Give the gift of self-care with a gift certificate to Urban Sanctuary Spa, Athens’ Favorite Spa! Providing massages, facials, HydraFacial, Glo2Facial, spa days, and luxurious gifts for your loved ones, since 2005. Eco-friendly, organic, cruelty free, and natural. Be kind to yourself, be kind to others, unwind at Urban Sanctuary.
Now with two locations!
4745 Bob Godfrey Rd. barbaraodil.com/woodhillartshow2024
Woodhill Artists Market features local artists (pictured) Ansley Williams, soaps and candles; Louise Norrell, jewelry; Jenny DeRevere, local flowers. Also featured: Mary Rugg, Barbara Odil, Stephanie Astalos-Jones, Greg Krakow, Leigh Ellis, Michael Pierce, Peter Loose.
Dec. 14 & 15, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
live music calendar
Tuesday 10
Athentic Brewing Co.
5:30–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/dailycoop
CICADA RHYTHM Captivating Athens group playing melodic, roots-influenced folk-rock.
MAGENTA MEN Men performing a tribute to The Indigo Girls.
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7 p.m. $15. pac.uga.edu
GEORGIA CHILDREN’S CHORUS
Singers age 7–18 from the greater Athens area who are trained inresidence at Hugh Hodgson School of Music performing a special program called “The Joy of Song.”
KEVIN BURKE Celebrated figure in Irish traditional music who has worked with The Bothy Band, Patrick Street and the Celtic Fiddle Festival over a 50-year career. 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.
LIZ FARRELL Jeff Buckleyinspired vocals accompanied by intricate ukulele.
MARY MARGARET COZART
Former Athenian now based in Savannah who crafts beautiful indie rock songs.
ELLI PERRY A melancholy mesmerist, a ballsy chanteuse or a howling one-woman vocal wrecking crew whose style ranges from Southern Gothic blues and folk to experimental alternative rock and roll.
Nowhere Bar 9 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens
JIVE MOTHER MARY All-encompassing rock music from North Carolina.
THE B-52S Athens new wave and art pop legends known for “Rock Lobster,” “Deadbeat Club,” “Love Shack” and “Dance This Mess Around.”
OF MONTREAL Long-running psych-pop group known for its outlandish stage presence.
DJ CUMMERBUND An icon of mashups and remixes who takes seemingly unrelated musical elements, songs and artists, and transforms them into whimsical works.
CHRISTMAS Sam Burchfield, Pip the Pansy and Cicada Rhythm perform favorites from Vince Guaraldi, Burl Ives, Paul McCartney, Chuck Berry and Marvin Gaye.
GREAT WIDE NOTHING Synthy, cinematic prog-rock from Atlanta.
NOISE MOUNTAIN Inspired by Midwestern alternative rock, this Athens band incorporates both ’80s and ’90s punk rock into its sound.
SCHMOOZE Athens alternative rock trio.
Saturday 14
40 Watt Club
A Very Rad Pop Punk Christmas. 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.), $15. www.40watt.com
THAT’S RAD! Playing a Blink-182 cover set.
MURDER THE MOOD Local riffladen alternative rock trio playing a My Chemical Romance cover set.
NADIA VAEH Playing a Paramore and No Doubt cover set.
PHANTOM DAN Emo punk rock from Athens.
AIR BRAZIL Lucas Tavares (Bichos Vivos), Adriana Thomas (Drí), Maria Kamila (Perrengue) and friends mix traditional sounds like samba and bossa nova with dream pop and alternative rock.
LIZ FARRELL Singer-songwriter influenced by folk, jazz and indie pop whose music manifests itself in heartfelt vocals and intentional though-lines of ukulele and piano. Hendershot’s 7–10 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com
HOLIDAY KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Special holiday edition. Pittard Park
Holiday in the Park. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE! www.marigoldcollective winterville.com/farmers-markets
BIG MAGIC Ukulele duo Pindi Arora and Nancy Heiges.
BRIAN VACCARO Violinist, guitarist and mandolin player who is a member of the Athens Symphony.
Sunday 15
Athentic Brewing Co. 5–7:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com
THE REVEREND CONNER TRIBBLE Old-fashioned rock and roll with a sprinkle of good-humored irreverence. Buvez
SEEKING APPROVAL Athensbased psych-funk band performing a mix of originals and covers.
Ciné
Athens Goth Night Dance Party. 9 p.m. (doors). $10. www.athenscine.com
DJ TOMB LILY Adria Stembridge of Tears For The Dying spins deathrock, post-punk, goth and more.
DJ CROWE DJ Steven Crowe.
The Classic Center Dec. 14, 7 p.m. & Dec. 15, 3 p.m. SOLD OUT! www.classiccenter.com
ATHENS SYMPHONY The annual Christmas concert features holiday favorites such as “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “Here Comes Santa Claus” and “Miniature Overture from The Nutcracker.”
Creature Comforts
Brewery
6–9 p.m. FREE! www.creaturecomforts beer.com
VINYL OPEN DECKS DJ Nate and JiiG host an open decks night where attendees can bring a few records and sign up to share some tunes. Turntables and mixer provided. Flicker Theatre & Bar Shadebeast Presents. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $12. www.flickertheatreand bar.com
NIHILUS Sludgy death metal supergroup featuring members of Beast Mode, Sundering Seas and Rosie & the Ratdogs.
SUN YEARS Doom metal from Richmond, VA. CANOPY Atmospheric sludge metal from Atlanta. Flying Squid Comedy 7:30 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $12. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
SEGAR JAZZ AFFAIR WXAG radio
DJ Dwain Segar curates a night of smooth jazz.
DWAN BOSMAN Saxophonist with over 25 years of experience. The World Famous 8 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/the worldfamousathens SLOW PARADE Atlanta-based music collective headed by Matthew Pendrick, who mixes roots, blues and country into his songwriting. TYLER KEY & STRANGERS Multi-instrumentalist Tyler Key of T. Hardy Morris, The Howdies and others plays his own set of folk rock, backed by The Strangers.
Monday 16
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
Christmas in the Classic City. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.classiccity communitychorus.org
CLASSIC CITY COMMUNITY
CHORUS Previously known as the Athens Choral Society, this chorus will perform “A Feast of Carols,” featuring familiar favorites with full orchestra accompaniment. Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture
6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). SOLD OUT! bit.ly/GoodGriefTrioDec16
LITTLE CHAMPION The Asheville, NC-based music project of Dustin Goldklang which draws influence from anti-folk, underground indie pop/rock, DIY punk and mainstream pop.
PONDGORL Athens-based artist Laila Li McCleery joins genre-bending friends in a band of beautiful, harmonious DIY glory.
DADGUM Jazz-pop for enlarged hearts.
The Classic Center 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.athensmaster chorale.org
ATHENS MASTER CHORALE The program “A Christmas Fanfare” features John Rutter’s “Gloria,” popular carols and other music of the season by composers such as Daniel Pinkham and Elaine Hagenberg. The Classic Center Dec. 14, 7 p.m. & Dec. 15, 3 p.m. SOLD OUT! www.classiccenter.com
ATHENS SYMPHONY The annual Christmas concert features holiday favorites such as “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “Here Comes Santa Claus” and “Miniature Overture from The Nutcracker.”
Hendershot’s 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. $40 (includes dinner). bit.ly/DRAGANA DRAGANA Formerly known as Athens Mountain Choir, this a cappella vocal group performs traditional folk songs from the rich musical tapestry of Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Tonight’s performance will include a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Oak House Distillery
3:30–6 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery. com
JIM COOK High-energy solo blues, classic rock and roots music.
THE GOOD GRIEF TRIO Greg Hankins (piano), Luca Lombardi (bass), Seth Hendershot (drums) and the Peanuts Choir interpret Vince Guaraldi’s timeless holiday classic, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Nuçi’s Space 7–11 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.nuci.org
MONDAY MIXTAPE OPEN MIC Take the stage, share your music and vibe out with the Nuçi’s community. The crowd favorite wins two free hours of Amplify Studio time. Every third Monday on the month.
Tuesday 17
Ciné
8 p.m. FREE! www.athenscine.com
KARAOKE WITH THE KING Show off your pipes to the world. Every first, third and fifth Tuesday. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. FREE! www.classiccityband. org
CLASSIC CITY BAND The community band’s Christmas concert will include traditional holiday songs such as “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “O Holy Night” and “Sleigh Ride.” Normal Bar
8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com
OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.
Wednesday 18
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $39–79. pac.uga.edu
VIENNA BOYS CHOIR Performing a special holiday program called “Christmas in Vienna,” which features Austrian folk songs, classical masterpieces, popular songs and holiday favorites. f
Kathy Mattea will perform a special set of holiday songs at Hodgson Concert Hall on Dec. 11.
event calendar
Tuesday 10
CLASSES: College Financial Literacy and You (ACC Library) Learn how to prepare for funding college, how to find aid and what FAFSA is. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: Reiki Circle (Serenity Attunement) Connect in meditation and learn more about Reiki. Second Tuesdays, 6 p.m. $22. www.serenity attunement.com
CLASSES: Lines and Wines (Tapped Athens Wine Market) Learn to use various calligraphy tools and methods while enjoying a selection of wines on tap. Registration required. 6–7:30 p.m. $28 (workshop only). www.kaartist.com
FILM: Teen Media Arts Club
Screening (Lyndon House Arts Center) Club members will present works they’ve created throughout the year. 6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/LyndonHouseArts
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: Rock ’n Roll Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host The Music Man. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.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: 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
KIDSTUFF: Polar Express Bedtime Storytime (Bogart Library) Wear your pajamas, grab a blanket and join Ms. Donna for train songs and a reading of the Polar Express. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly group, hear memoirs from others and learn tips on how to write your own. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
PERFORMANCE: Irish Christmas in America (The Classic Center) The family-friendly performance features lively instrumental tunes and old-style Irish dancing. 7 p.m. $32.50–36.50. www.classiccenter. com
PERFORMANCE: Rak The Watt (40 Watt Club) Students of the Sangha Yoga Studio at the Healing Arts Centre and special guests will showcase belly dances of different styles. 7 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $5. www.40watt.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
Wednesday 11
ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: Suicide Prevention Training (Nuçi’s Space) Learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade and refer someone to help. Registration required. 9 a.m. FREE! www.nuci.org/qpr
CLASSES: Windows Computers for Beginners (ACC Library) Use Windows 11 laptops to learn about computer memory, storage, programs and files. 4 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: DMC: Blender for Beginners (ACC Library) Learn how to create basic 3D objects using Blender. Registration is required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.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
COMEDY: Level 2 & 3 Improv Graduation Show (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Flying Squid Comedy will showcase what students have learned in improv comedy. 7 p.m. (level 2), 8 p.m. (level 3). $5. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com
FILM: Holiday Movie Night (The Foundry) Screening of the classic holiday movie A Charlie Brown Christmas with seasonal treats for sale. 5:30 p.m. $10. www.facebook. com/thefoundryathens
FILM: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of Japanese superhero TV shows. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.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. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook. com/baddogathens
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: Toddler Art (Oconee County Library) Drop in for tactile and sensory fun that builds fine motor skills, and leave with your own masterpiece. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Train LEGO Mania (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create with a Polar Express theme. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Board Game Night (ACC Library) Teens are invited to play a variety of games from classics to newer titles. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
KIDSTUFF: Gingerbread Workshop (Lay Park Community Center)
Receive a pre-baked gingerbread village, icing and candies. Registration required. 12 & under. 6 p.m. $10 (ACC resident), $15 (non-resident). www.accgovga.myrec.com
MEETINGS: Athens Psychedelic Society (ACC Library) Meet likeminded individuals interested in topics related to expanded states of consciousness. 6 p.m. FREE! Athens Psychedelic Society on Facebook
MEETINGS: Casual Crafting (Oconee County Library) Bring your current creative project and talk with other creatives and the host instructor Zakk Wilder. Registration required. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
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 Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.com
PERFORMANCE: Deep South Wrestling (Creature Comforts Brewery) Professional live wrestling from Atlanta. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www. wearedeepsouth.com
Thursday 12
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: DIY Gift Wrap Party (ACC Library) Drop in and wrap your gifts with the creative supplies provided. All ages. 12–8 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Athens Holiday Market (Big City Bread Café) Browse local pottery, wood crafts, soap, jewelry, stained glass and more. Dec. 12–13, 5–9 p.m. www.facebook. com/athensholidaymarket
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: Adult Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) A gaming session for players of all skill levels. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
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
KIDSTUFF: Open Play (Oconee County Library) Drop in for playtime that’s focused on encouraging early literacy and brain building. Ages 5 & under. 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: STEAM Thursday: Cook for the Holiday (Bogart Library) Make easy, yummy recipes for the holidays. 12 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
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: Jolly Jamboree (Aaron Heard Community Center) Celebrate the holidays with crafts and activities. 10 & under. 6–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgovga.myrec.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
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $20–43. www.classiccenter.com
THEATER: A Spell for Winter (Town & Gown Players) The world premiere of a magical holiday musical featuring a young wizard’s life changing journey at a new school. Dec. 12–14, 8 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $24. www.townandgownplayers.org
Friday 13
ART: Mary Porter Studio Sale (824 Boulevard) Browse new and vintage works. Dec. 13, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Dec. 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.mary porterpaintings.com
ART: Normaltown Pottery Holiday Sale (Normaltown Pottery) This holiday sale will feature handmade, functional pottery from studio potters. Dec. 13, 4–9 p.m. Dec. 14, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 762-728-0575
COMEDY: Presentation Panic! (Flying Squid Comedy) Improvisers will have to give comedic presentations on unknown topics. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Weihnachtsmarkt und Konzert (Buvez) Browse a small German-inspired Christmas market followed by a holiday performance. 4–7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens
EVENTS: Athens Holiday Market (Big City Bread Café) Browse local pottery, wood crafts, soap, jewelry, stained glass and more. Dec. 12–13, 5–9 p.m. www.facebook. com/athensholidaymarket
EVENTS: Deck the Hollow (Bear Hollow Zoo at Memorial Park) Celebrate the holidays in lights with live music, animal encounters and photo opportunities. Dec. 6–8 & 13–15, 5:30–7:30 p.m. $5. www. facebook.com/BearHollowZoo
EVENTS: Light the Lights (Bishop Town Hall) Browse the holiday market and enjoy hot chocolate, music, kids crafts and more. 4 p.m. (market), 6 p.m. (activities). FREE! www.facebook.com/bishopga
EVENTS: Journey Through Bethlehem (Tuckston United Methodist Church) Enjoy an indoor/outdoor interactive live nativity scene plus hot chocolate and holiday cookies. Dec. 13, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Dec. 14, 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.tuckston.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: Bad Dog Trivia (Soldier of the Sea Distillery) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/ baddogathens
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: Holiday Play All Day (Oconee County Library) Drop-in play with holiday crafts, prizes, freebies and games along with a cupcake and hot cocoa bar. All ages. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.com/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Bouncing Baby Storytime (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for a music and language floor-based program. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Mississippi Sea Wolves (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $20–43. www.classiccenter.com
THEATER: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Elbert Theatre) This dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ work faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of the classic story. Dec. 13–14, 7 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $12 (adv.), $17. tking@cityof elberton.net
THEATER: The Nutcracker: Clara’s Christmas Dream (Oconee County Civic Center) Two-act adaptation of the beloved Christmas ballet with music by Tchaikovsky. Dec. 13, 7 p.m. Dec. 14, 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. $13. www.depassstudioofdance.com
THEATER: A Spell for Winter (Town & Gown Players) The world premiere of a magical holiday musical featuring a young wizard’s life changing journey at a new school. Dec. 12–14, 8 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $24. www.townandgownplayers.org
Saturday 14
ART: Normaltown Pottery Holiday Sale (Normaltown Pottery) This holiday sale will feature handmade, functional pottery from studio potters. Dec. 13, 4–9 p.m. Dec. 14, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 762-728-0575
ART: Mary Porter Studio Sale (824 Boulevard) Browse new and vintage works. Dec. 13, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Dec. 14, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.mary porterpaintings.com
ART: Artisans Open House (Pineywoods Art Studio) Browse the works of seven local artists (Margaret Agner, Elizabeth Barton, Dortha Jacobson, Babs Kall, Patricia McAlexander, Caroline Montague and Aristotle Nicolaides) and talk to them about their craft. Dec. 14–15, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.elizabeth barton.com
ART: Ceramics Open Studio & Holiday Sale (Southern Star Studio) Browse a variety of pottery from resident artists. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.southernstarstudioathens.com
ART: Ceramics Open Studio & Holiday Sale (Michele Dross Ceramics Studio) Browse Michelle Dross’s porcelain pottery featuring line drawings and nature centric forms. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. micheledross.com
ART: Pop-Up Exhibition & Sale (The Athenaeum) Paintings by Cris Kocher will be on display and for sale, with a portion of proceeds benefitting Nuçi’s Space. Dec. 14–15, 2–5 p.m. art.uga.edu/ athenaeum
CLASSES: Zumba Jingle Jam (work.shop) Wear your cutest holiday outfit and shake your bells at this high-energy dance class. 9 p.m. FREE! (ticket required). www. instagram.com/studiod3athens
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: Holiday in the Park (Pittard Park) Marigold Farmers Market offers locally grown produce, coffee, baked goods, handcrafted items and holiday activities like photos with Santa, train rides, live music and more. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. www. marigoldmarketwinterville.com
EVENTS: Holiday Market (Molly’s Coffee Co.) Browse locally crafted functional and decorative art, pottery, baked goods and more. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.mollyscoffeeco. com
EVENTS: Indie South Holiday Hooray (Bishop Park) Browse art, handmade gifts, vintage goods and more with a food trucks on site. Dec. 14–15, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. theindiesouth.com
EVENTS: Bag of Books Sale (Front Porch Bookstore) Browse books for sale. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5/bag. Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook EVENTS: Woodhill Holiday Market (4745 Bob Godfrey Rd.) Browse locally-crafted functional and decorative art, clothing, jewelry, candles and more. Dec. 14–15, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.barbaraodil.com/ woodhillartshow2024
EVENTS: Christmas in Oglethorpe (303 E. Church Street) There will be vendors, a parade and a concert. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. www.facebook.com/ ChristmasinOglethorpe
EVENTS: Really, Really Free Market (Reese and Pope Park) Just like a yard sale, but everything is free. Bring what you can, take what you need. Second Saturday of every month. 12–1:30 p.m. reallyreally freemarketathens@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/RRFMAthens
EVENTS: Winter Open House: Get Art-Sea (Lyndon House Arts Center) Enjoy underwater themed crafts and art-making activities for all ages. 12–3 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse
EVENTS: All Are Welcome Holiday Market (Buvez) Browse goods made by queer, POC and local makers from a variety of backgrounds and mingle. 1–6 p.m. www.shopsotm.com
EVENTS: Cookies with Santa (Lexington Vintage) Enjoy milk and cookies, and a photo op with Santa. 1–3 p.m. FREE! www.lexington vintageathens.com
EVENTS: Pictures with Santa (YWCO) Bring your family, friends, children and pets for a photo with Santa. 1–4 p.m. Donations encouraged. www.ywco.org
EVENTS: Journey Through Bethlehem (Tuckston United Methodist Church) Enjoy an indoor/outdoor
interactive live nativity scene plus hot chocolate and holiday cookies. Dec. 13, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Dec. 14, 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.tuckston.org
EVENTS: Historic Athens Heritage Walk (RSVP for Location) Learn about the history of the Athens’ Holman Avenue in the Boulevard neighborhood from its architecture to its artistic community. Registration required. 2 p.m. $25. www. historicathens.com
EVENTS: Deck the Hollow (Bear Hollow Zoo at Memorial Park) Celebrate the holidays in lights with live music, animal encounters and photo opportunities. Dec. 6–8 & 13–15, 5:30–7:30 p.m. $5. www. facebook.com/BearHollowZoo
EVENTS: Cigar Box Challenge
(ATHICA) Enjoy an evening of food, beverages, music and sale of unique cigar box creations in benefit of ATHICA. 7–10 p.m. bit.ly/ cigarboxchallenge
FILM: Tokusatsu Club (ACC Library) Screening of four Tokusatsu TV episodes 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
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: Breakfast with Santa (The Classic Center) Tell Santa your Christmas wishes, create holiday crafts, enjoy a full breakfast buffet and spread Christmas cheer in benefit of The Classic Center Cultural Foundation. 8:30 a.m. $30–40. www.classiccenter.com
KIDSTUFF: Polar Express Finale
(Bogart Library) Join Dr. Maurice Snook to view the Polar Express model train, make crafts and more. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Pokémon Club (ACC Library) Trade Pokémon cards or learn to play the game. Ages 5–12. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org
KIDSTUFF: Anime Club (ACC Library) Watch anime, create art, try Japanese snacks and make new friends. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
KIDSTUFF: Cookies with Santa (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Enjoy cookies, crafts, activities and a chat with Santa. Registration required. Ages 3–12. $5 (ACC resident), $7.50 (non-resident). 2–3:45 p.m. www.accgovga.myrec.com
KIDSTUFF: Teen Anime Club (Oconee County Library) Join other fans of manga and anime to discover books, play games, snack and watch anime. Grades 6–12. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
MEETINGS: Just Do Something (ACC Library) During this genealogy research shared interest group dig deeper into your genealogy or history research. Second Saturdays, 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
PERFORMANCE: INSPIRE Winter Showcase 2024 (Morton Theatre) Annual winter showcase featuring dancers of all ages performing to popular seasonal tunes. 11 a.m.–12 p.m. $17. www.mortontheatre.com
THEATER: The Nutcracker: Clara’s Christmas Dream (Oconee County Civic Center) Two-act adaptation of the beloved Christmas ballet with music by Tchaikovsky. Dec. 13, 7 p.m. Dec. 14, 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. $13. www.depassstudioofdance.com
THEATER: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Elbert Theatre) This dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ work faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of the classic story. Dec. 13–14, 7 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $12 (adv.), $17. tking@cityof elberton.net
THEATER: A Spell for Winter (Town & Gown Players) The world premiere of a magical holiday musical featuring a young wizard’s life changing journey at a new school. Dec. 12–14, 8 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $24. www.townandgownplayers.org
Sunday 15
ART: Artisans Open House (Pineywoods Art Studio) Browse the works of seven local artists (Margaret Agner, Elizabeth Barton, Dortha Jacobson, Babs Kall, Patricia McAlexander, Caroline Montague and Aristotle Nicolaides) and talk to them about their craft. Dec. 14–15,
EVENTS: Woodhill Holiday Market (4745 Bob Godfrey Rd.) Browse locally-crafted functional and decorative art, clothing, jewelry, candles and more. Dec. 14–15, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.barbaraodil.com/ woodhillartshow2024
EVENTS: Holiday Market (SpringHaus Farm) Browse vendors selling handcrafted items, gifts and premade decorations, plus photos with Santa. 12–5 p.m. www.shf weddings.com
EVENTS: Community Grand Opening (Akins Ford Arena) Celebrate the new arena with ice skating, face painting, holiday treats, a chalk art contest and more. 1–4 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com
p.m. $12 (adv.), $17. tking@cityof elberton.net
Monday 16
CLASSES: Kundalini Yoga Workshop (Feel Free Yoga + Wellness) An immersive experience exploring, channeling and connecting with kundalini energy. Registration required. 7 p.m. $45. www.feelfree yogawellness.com
COMEDY: Funny Femmes (Gyro Wrap) Local comedians perform with surprise guests. The Upstairs Bar and Comedy Club. Third Mondays, 8 p.m. $7 (adv.), $10. www. instagram.com/theup_stairsbar
10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.elizabeth barton.com
ART: Pop-Up Exhibition & Sale (The Athenaeum) Paintings by Cris Kocher will be on display and for sale, with a portion of proceeds benefitting Nuçi’s Space. Dec. 14–15, 2–5 p.m. art.uga.edu/athenaeum
ART: Sunday Spotlight Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) This drop-in public tour features highlights of the permanent collection. 3 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
ART: $5-10-15 Pottery Sale (Athentic Brewing Co.) Browse hand-made ceramic cups, mugs, plates and more by Athens local potters priced $15 and less. 5–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.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: Indie South Holiday Hooray (Bishop Park) Browse art, handmade gifts, vintage goods and more with a food trucks on site. Dec. 14–15, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. theindiesouth.com
EVENTS: Deck the Hollow (Bear Hollow Zoo at Memorial Park) Celebrate the holidays in lights with live music, animal encounters and photo opportunities. Dec. 6–8 & 13–15, 5:30–7:30 p.m. $5. www. facebook.com/BearHollowZoo
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www. facebook.com/baddogathens
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: A Spell for Winter (Town & Gown Players) The world premiere of a magical holiday musical featuring a young wizard’s life changing journey at a new school. Dec. 12–14, 8 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $24. www.townandgownplayers.org
THEATER: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Elbert Theatre) This dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ work faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of the classic story. Dec. 13–14, 7 p.m. Dec. 15, 2
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
MEETINGS: Cozy Craft Night (ACC Library) Bring your current work in-progress or try out something new with some warm drinks and conversation. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
Tuesday 17
CLASSES: MS Access: Database Basics (ACC Library) Learn how to use tables, queries, forms and reports. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
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.flickertheatreand bar.com
EVENTS: Blue Christmas (First Baptist Church) A specially designed service for those who have suffered loss and find the holidays challenging. 6 p.m. FREE! www.firstbaptist athens.org
EVENTS: Fall Fashion Show (Lyndon House Arts Center) The Teen Fashion Design & Sewing Club and Teen Media Club will showcase their designs. 6 p.m. FREE! www. facebook.com/LyndonHouseArts
FILM: Athentic Movie Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the holiday film Muppet Christmas Carol. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.com
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo
GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens
LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of Due or Die by Jenn McKinlay and discuss it with the group. 5:30–6:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Athentic December Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss One Day In December by Josie Silver and bring a wrapped book for a White Elephant gift exchange (optional). 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
MEETINGS: Honking Jam (595 Nanthahala Ave.) Bring your brass or reed horn to jam on “When the Saints Go Marching In.” 6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/groups/ honkingclub
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 18
ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent 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
COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. Hosted by Noell Appling. Third Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
FILM: Holiday Movie Night (The Foundry) Screening of the classic holiday movie A Christmas Story with seasonal treats for sale. 5:30 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ thefoundryathens
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1961 thriller drama film Cash on Demand. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
EVENTS: Hanukkah Storytime (ACC Library) Enjoy stories and crafts celebrating Hanukkah. All ages. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) A group of sex-crazed yuppies reunite at an isolated ski lodge, only to be stalked by a cold-blooded killer in the frosty slasher Iced. 8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/Bad MovieNight
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
GAMES: Trivia with Marissa (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Test your trivia knowledge with host Marissa. 8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your special holiday trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/ MellowMushroomAthens
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: Trivia Night (Hi-Lo Lounge) Test your trivia knowledge. 8 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/hilo lounge
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: Chapter Chat (Bogart Library) This month’s chat will feature The Clockwork Crow by Catherine Fisher with quizzes, trivia, snacks and more. Ages 8–12. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
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. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook. com/baddogathens
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: Playtime Express (Oconee County Library) Join a train-themed small group playtime. Registration required. Ages 3 & up. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
KIDSTUFF: YA Holiday Party (Oconee County Library) Enjoy crafts, holiday movies, refreshments, a book swap and more. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee f
COURTESY OF THE ELBERT THEATRE
The Elbert Theatre presents the classic production The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for its final weekend Dec. 13–15.
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
ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY
(Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform
to connect creatives with patrons. Visual artists, musicians, actors, writers and other creatives are encouraged to create a free listing. athenscreatives@gmail.com, www. athenscreatives.directory
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals residing in Georgia to develop an art exhibition to be on display for 6–8 weeks at the LHAC. A stipend of $1,500 is provided. www.accgov. com/9799/ArtistCurator
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Winterville, GA) The 2025 Winterville Marigold Festival is seeking theme artwork to be featured on posters, T-shirts and more. Marigold or Wintervillethemed artwork preferred. Deadline to apply Jan. 1, 5 p.m. www.marigoldfestival.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, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. Email if interested in displaying your collection. shelby.little@ accgov.com
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The 50th Juried Exhibition will be juried by Michael Rooks, Wieland Family Senior Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the High Museum in Atlanta. Submissions accepted Jan. 7–24. Exhibition on view Mar. 13–May 10. accgov.com/lyndonhouse
art around town
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. Open Third Thursday Dec. 19, 5–9 p.m. Through Dec. 30. • “Grit Portraits: Paintings by Tobiah Cole” includes portraits of some of the artist’s friends from his many years at The Grit. Through Dec. 30.
ARTS + ATHLETICS (Contact for Address) “Raised Bed” features works on paper and sculptural works by Sara Hess, co-founder of printmaking studio Two Parts Press. Closing Reception Feb. 22, 4–6 p.m. Open by appointment through Feb. 22.
ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) A pop-up exhibition and sale features paintings by Cris Kocher. Dec. 14–15, 2–5 p.m.
ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) “Americans and the Holocaust” is a traveling exhibition from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association that examines the motives, pressures and fears that shaped Americans’ responses to Nazism, war and genocide in Europe during the 1930s and ’40s. Through Dec. 19. • On view in the Bogue Gallery, Will Eskridge presents “Beach Bumz,” a series of paintings that combine shorelines, animals and sweet treats. Through Dec. 29.
ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) The Cigar Box Challenge is a one-night pop-up fundraising exhibition featuring ordinary cigar boxes that have been transformed into works of art by local artists. Dec. 14, 7 p.m.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Game Day” by Vivian Liddell features an immersive diptych painting depicting an infamous celebration in downtown Athens. Through Dec. 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.
FOYER (135 Park Ave.) Brooklyn-based artist Baker Overstreet’s “Goblin Gazebo” features sculptures that bring to mind puppets, dolls and French clowns, and are made with canvas and bits and bobbles like wood, push pins and found materials. On view through Jan. 18 by appointment.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) Shot through the windows
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
OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, jewelry, fiber and woodworking. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $65/month. www. accgov.com/7350/Open-StudioMembership
PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS (Athens GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. Panels review, evaluate and select from submitted proposals for ACC-funded public art commissions. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels
Auditions
THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES (The Cottage Sexual Assault Center & Children’s Advocacy Center) Auditions for the Feb. 6–8 performances of The Vagina Monologues are open to all ages and backgrounds who identify as women. No expe-
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
BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of blacksmithing classes include “First Time at the Forge: Three Hook Rack” (Jan. 4 or Feb. 8), “Beginner Blacksmithing: Forge a Fire Poker” (Jan. 11), “Forge a Medieval Flail” (Jan. 17), “Beginner Blacksmithing: Forge a Bottle Opener” (Jan. 25), “Crash Course in Artistic Blacksmithing” (Feb. 9–10, $250) and “Forging Basic Tongs” (Feb. 15). Classes run 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150/class. www.greenhowhandmade.com/ blacksmith-classes
CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships
DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The
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. • “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.
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.
LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) “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,” Atlantabased 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. Through 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. Through Dec. 28. • 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. Collections from Our Community hosts John Stephenson’s vintage radio collection. Through Jan. 11. • “fast tracks, ski masks, plaid slacks” by Tim Root includes playful wooden constructions drawn from a comic book aesthetic and DIY ethos. Artist event held Jan. 30, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view through Feb. 8.
MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) The 2024 MAGallery Artists Exhibition, “RED,” presents an array of original works by 16 gallery artists in styles, subjects and media ranging from contemporary to traditional. Through Dec. 28.
OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) The annual Artists Shoppe features artwork and craft items made by members of OCAF. Through Dec. 20.
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
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
PÉTANQUE CLUB OF ATHENS (5 Alumni Dr.) Learn to play Pétanque. RSVP for a free Wednesday introduction. athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION
TRAINING (Nuçi’s Space) Nuçi’s hosts free monthly QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention sessions for anyone interested, not just mental health professionals. Nuçi’s also offers free training for businesses and organizations. Session held Dec. 11, 9–11:30 a.m. qpr@nuci.org, www.nuci.org/qpr
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. revolutiontherapyandyoga.com
YOGA CLASSES (Highland Yoga) Classes are offered seven days a week. Intro offer includes 30 days for $30. www.highland-yoga.com
YOGA CLASSES (Let It Be Yoga Studio, Watkinsville) Classes are offered in Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini, beginner, gentle and other styles. Check online calendar for weekly offerings. www.letitbeyoga.org
YOGA CLASSES (Shakti Yoga Athens) This body-neutral and traumainformed space in Normaltown
offers heated and unheated classes. Classes are offered in Power Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Yin and Restorative Yoga. New student offer: four weeks of unlimited yoga for $40. shakti yogaathens.com
Help Out
ADOPT AN ANIMAL (Bear Hollow Zoo) Different sponsorship levels are available to “adopt” a zoo resident. Donations are used for exhibits, food and wildlife education. 706-613-3580
ATHENS REPAIR CAFE (Solid Waste Office) The repair cafe is seeking volunteers comfortable fixing any of the following: clothing, pillows, small appliances, lamps, electronics, computers, bikes, small engines, clocks, knives, tools. The repair cafe is held the fourth Sunday of every month. reuse@accgov. com, www.accgov.com/RepairCafe 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 direc-
include a complete Jasperware tea set from Wedgewood in England and a series of hand-carved coconut vessels.
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. Open Third Thursday, Dec. 19, 5–9 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. • “Precious, Almost Sacred: Voting Rights in America” features photos, pamphlets, newspaper reports, letters and more from the Russell Library archives to illustrate the expansion of voter access in Georgia. Through May.
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) “Small Works” is a group exhibition of works measuring 13”x13” or smaller and priced under $250 for the holidays. Through Jan. 3. • “Of Wood and Water” presents the found wooden sculptures of Barbara Odil and landscape paintings by Laura Floyd. Through Jan. 3. • “Fading Light in 30624” captures rural life in the ’70s and ’80s through the photographs of Jason Machen. Through Jan. 3.
WINTERVILLE LIBRARY (115 Marigold Ln., Winterville) Vicky Tavernier and Jenifer Borg present “Tide Pools, Rainforests, Deserts, and Fields: Selected Works from What Hides in the Tides and Stay a While with a Reptile.” Through Dec. 27.
tors and volunteers. The application is available online. board@morton theatre.com, www.mortontheatre. com/join-the-board
TOWELS FOR ANIMALS (ACCGov Animal Services Adoption Center) Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and hand rags for bathing animals and cleaning kennels. Donations can be dropped off at the door if it’s after hours. www.accgov. com/animalservices
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
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, maternal mental health and more. Check website for a schedule. www. reblossomathens.com
HOLIDAY CAMPS (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Winter Camp is offered Dec. 27, 28, 30 and 31. For ages 7–14. Camps run 10 a.m.–3 p.m. www.ocaf.com/ocafkids
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
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN (Online) Join ACC Leisure Services in a 12-day countdown to Christmas with different activity suggestions each day. See the list
WINTER WONDERLAND WEEK (Heard Park) Campers will enjoy winter crafts, games and activities. For ages 6–12. Dec. 30–31, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. www.accgov.com/ 1545/ChristmasHoliday-Events
Support Groups
BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP (St. Mary’s Hospital, 5th Floor Therapy Room) This support group for survivors of traumatic head injury, their families, friends and caregivers offers friendship, information about resources and opportunities for advocacy. Every third Monday, 4:30–6 p.m. Contact Floretta Johnson, 706-353-1892, floretta. johnson@stmarysathens.org
NEW PARENTS AND INFANT FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP (BYL Family Resource Center) Come as you are for community, snacks and feeding advice from professionals. Babies and children of all ages are welcome. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.byyourleave.org
POLYAMORY SUPPORT GROUP (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) This open support group for adults practicing or considering polyamory or nonmonogamy discusses navigating jealousy, polysaturation, relationships with metamours and polyamorous parenting. Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga. com
PROJECT SAFE (Family Protection Center) Project Safe hosts a support group for survivors of domestic violence. Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. www. project-safe.org
RECREATE JOY (Sunny Days Therapeutics) Nuçi’s Space hosts a recreational therapy support group. Improve coping skills and self esteem while reducing depression and anxiety through adaptive yoga, games and leisure education. Sixweek sessions. Wednesdays, 5–6 p.m. tinyurl.com/rnvuhesa
RECOVERY DHARMA (Athens Addiction Recovery Center) This peer-led support group offers a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from any addiction. Visit the website for details. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.athensrecoverydharma.org
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE (Nuçi’s Space) SOS is a support group for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide. Meets the third Wednesday of every month, 5:30–7:30 p.m. www.nuci.org
Word on the Street
AMERICAN PICKERS (Athens, GA)
Seeking collectors in Georgia with fascinating items for an episode of “American Pickers” on the History Channel. Email your name, location, number and a description of your items. Must be a private collection. No shops, flea markets, auctions, etc. 646-493-2184, americanpickers@cineflix.com
ATHENS ON ICE (440 Foundry Pavilion) Outdoor ice skating is currently available through February. Tickets include skate rental and 75 minutes on the ice. $15. www.classiccenter. com/iceskating
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
FILM LOCATION DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The Athens Film Office, part of the ACCGov Communications Department, recently launched a new database to showcase potential local sites that could be considered for film, TV or other production projects. Residents and business owners can add photos and information. www.athensgafilmoffice.com
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. Dec. 2. 706-227-1515, www.nuci.org/ additional-health-services
RABBIT BOX (Athens VFW 2872) Rabbit Box presents true short stories shared by community members. Upcoming themes include “Some ‘Body’ to Love: Body Image Stories” on Jan. 28, “Open Theme Show” on Feb. 25, “In the Wrong Place, at the Wrong Time” on Mar. 25, “Road Trip!” on Apr. 22 and “Soundtrack of My Life” on May 27. Submit story ideas online. www. rabbitbox.org/tell
RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Weekly events include Open Mic (Tuesdays, 7–11 p.m.), Acoustic Song Circle (Thursdays, 7–11 p.m.) and Drumming and Song Circle (Sundays, 3–5 p.m.). Wednesday Yoga (5 p.m.) is followed by Meditation and Integration (6 p.m.). Events are free or donation based. www.rabbitholestudios.org/ calendar
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
STORMWATER CALENDARS (Athens, GA) The 2025 ACCGov Stormwater calendar can be reserved by filling out the online request form. www.accgov.com/stormwater TINSEL TRAIL (Classic Center) Stroll among 70 live trees near the Athena statue and Foundry Street that were decorated by local businesses. The Tinsel Trail supports scholarships through the Classic Center Cultural Foundation and the Athens Area Women in Construction. Through December. FREE! www.classic center.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. Now registering. www.accgov.com/myrec
WINTER WONDERLIGHTS (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) See illuminated displays along a halfmile trail through the garden. Hot chocolate, s’mores and other treats available. Select nights through Dec. 30. Disco nights Jan. 2–5. wonderlights.uga.edu f
Harold Rittenberry’s new sculpture, “Curiosity,” was recently installed at Hilsman Middle School. The sculpture will be at the center of an upcoming pollinator garden project.
JOIN THE HUGH HODGSON SCHOOL OF MUSIC THIS SPRING FOR ANOTHER INCREDIBLE SEMESTER OF CONCERTS AND PERFORMANCES. Save on the gift of music this holiday season with our PICK-12 and PICK-6 season options. Upcoming performances include:
FACULTY ENSEMBLES
Rachmaninoff, and Piazzolla
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 AT 7:30 P.M.
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
THURSDAY, JANUARY 30 AT 7:30 P.M.
FACULTY FOLLIES
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 AT 7:30 P.M.
LA FINTA GIARDINIERA
FRI. & SAT. FEB. 21 AND 22 AT 7:30 P.M. SUN. FEB 23 AT 3 P.M.
MOZART at the FINE ARTS THEATRE, 255 Baldwin St.
For tickets: Scan QR code | music.uga.edu | 706-542-4400
Tickets $15-20 for adults, $3 for UGA students with valid ID Performances at the UGA Performing Arts Center, 230 River Road unless indicated
FLAGPOLE AD_12-4-HHSOM.indd 1
12/2/24 12:22 PM Slackpole, Flagpole’s 2 week issue hits the streets on 12/26.
2 weeks of Flagpole fun for the price of one week.
Contact the ad department to be included.
Deadline: 5 p.m., Dec. 17.
theater notes
A Spell for Winter
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
As the cold weather drives most people indoors, it’s a wonderful time to explore the offerings of the Athens-area theater groups and productions. The winter season is lively with a mix of traditional plays, ballets and more. Town & Gown Players is closing out its year with the holiday-themed musical A Spell for Winter, an original by locals Derek Adams (book, lyrics and direction) and Jonathan Sparks (music and music direction). Set in a fantastical world during the winter solstice at Solacer Wynd School of Technical Magic and Tavern Management, the play focuses on Winter, a student who cannot cast a single spell and is facing flunking out of college. While everyone around her is enjoying the best night of the year, Winter must figure out how to cast a spell in a single night, while also facing her past, a ghost, her classmates and more in the process. Adams likens the atmosphere to the classic A Christmas Carol, explaining it’s full of big emotions and lessons to be learned.
characters that Adams was writing about were pulled directly from the game that he and friends were building, including that of A Spell for Winter
“If I’m trying to write something that’s not fantasy, I feel like, but wouldn’t it be cool if someone had a sword, you know? And then the answer is yes, and then I put a sword in,” says Adams.
Adams and Sparks have long been creative partners, and outside of theater they have run a podcast network for about 15 years. The duo also began creating Christmas albums while in college as a cheap gift for friends, featuring classic songs and skits in between. A simple idea evolved into a more elaborate project with mini narratives and musicals. Adams, who already had the short story version of A Spell for Winter, brought the idea to Sparks to develop it into a one act drama for their 10th anniversary Christmas album.
“It seems like obviously heading towards a musical was where we were always going.
“If you like musicals, this is a musical. There are big dance numbers, wizards, magic, a ghost. There is a happy ending, even though it’s pretty sad because it’s about a character dealing with loss,” says Adams.
After his 25 years of involvement at Town & Gown and wearing a variety of community theater hats, A Spell for Winter is Adams’ first personal work adapted to the stage. Originally the piece was a flash fiction short story, then about five years ago Adams and Sparks turned it into a one-act audio drama. Patiently waiting for the right opportunity to premiere a full theatrical production, Adams and Sparks debuted A Spell for Winter last weekend.
“Our leads are 20-year musical theater veterans in town, so it’s in pretty safe hands,” says Adams. “Half the cast I had never worked with before. That’s what’s fun. It’s always a rotating door, especially as you get older.”
As a lifetime fantasy fan, Adams began writing short stories and novels inspired by a Dungeons & Dragons game he was a part of. Busy with work and life responsibilities, the group mainly met via an online forum where the tale was typed out. The world and
But we didn’t know that,” says Adams. “That was why it became the audio drama version. We did, in fact, write it and record it all in 30 days. We did not release it in 30 days because there’s all this, you know, sound design and musical work that Jonathan had to do.”
After many forms that have developed through different motivations, A Spell for Winter’s community theater production now has a new life shaped by the energy and touch each member of Town & Gown brings. Cast members include Michael Moretti, Tenley Moretti, Killian Ross, Tate Venable and Hannah Walker.
“What’s special about theater is that it’s ephemeral. It’ll be gone. This is your one shot at it. I’m hoping people really enjoy that aspect of it,” says Adams.
For more info and to purchase tickets, visit townandgownplayers.org. f
MUGS
TAROT • LUNCH
• SOAPS LAVA LAMPS • CANDLES • MAGNETS TOBACCO ACCESSORIES (WINK WINK, NUDGE NUDGE) • JOURNALS • PUPPIES INCENSE BURNERS • TAPESTRIES SALT AND PEPPER SETS • METAL SIGNS WIND CHIMES • SAKE SETS • GAMES DISCO BALLS • JEWELRY • PLUSH TOYS BIRD HOUSES... AND LOTS MORE! downtown Athens • inside cillies
JEWELRY - ART - GIFTS 125 E. Clayton St. aurumstudios.com
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
WANTING TO RENT
Artist wants to share your space. Need approx. 300 sq/ft working space and comfortable living situation. Work in wax/clay. Chad Bunnell 706-206-8285. Call anytime.
Get Flagpole delivered straight to your mailbox! Makes a great gift! Only $65 for six months or $125 for one year. Purchase at www. flagpole.bigcartel.com, call 706-549-0301 or email front desk@flagpole.com.
FOR SALE ESTATE SALE
BLOW OUT!!! Vintage Estate Sale. New items from storage. Major markdowns. MCM furniture, vinyl records, folk art, Coach & Brahmin purses, jewelry, vintage clothing, art books, tons of Christmas. Find your perfect present here!!! Dec. 13-14. Fri, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 340 Dogwood Dr. insta@magnolia.esc Cash/check/venmo only.
MUSIC
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Bid on exclusive music memorabilia and local bundles in Nuçi’s Space’s Athens Uncovered Online Auction! Ends Dec. 13. Proceeds support suicide prevention. Visit: https:// www.32auctions.com/au 2024
Advertise in the Flagpole Classifieds! 706-549-0301
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
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
Sell your old musical equipment in the Flagpole!
SERVICES
HOME AND GARDEN
Woman- Run Gardening Services: Prep for Winter! We offer garden clean- up/ maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706395-5321.
JOBS
FULL-TIME
Taste of India is now hiring (Busser, host, to- go specialist, floater). Paid weekly, employee meals, flexible schedules, full-time or parttime $15–$20. APPLY IN PERSON.
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
VEHICLES TRUCKS
For Sale: 2005 Toyota Tundra. 2 wheel drive w towing package. 198,000 miles, new brakes, new limited slip differential, LineX bed liner, comes with a Trac Rac ladder rack. $13,500. Text 706-340-4434.
NOTICES LOST AND FOUND
$2000 REWARD. Cherished gift! Small ladies ring. Bezel set ruby surrounded by tiny diamonds in yellow gold band. Lost during early voting, Oct. 21. Area: tax office to back entrance of Courthouse, down Jackson St. to Lyndon House Arts Center voting area. Contact: 706-612-4516.
ORGANIZATIONS
Big City Bread’s Holiday Market Dec. 12 & 13 featuring local artists and craftspeople from around the region. Enjoy food, live music, and handmade treasures.
Follow ACC Solid Waste on Instagram/Facebook @ accsolidwaste for tips and resources for recycling, composting, repairs, and more or visit accgov.com/ solidwaste.
If you are in crisis due to domestic violence, call Project Safe for help 706543-3331. project-safe.org
Juvenile Offender Advocates. Seeking volunteer advocates and interns to make a difference in a juvenile offender’s life. juvenile offenderadvocateinc.org
Mark your calendar for OCAF’s Holiday Market & Artists’ Shoppe beginning Nov. 2! Details at ocaf.com.
The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia accepts food donations between 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon- Fri. Volunteer opportunities available! foodbank nega.org
Woodhill Artists Market. Opening reception: Fri, Dec. 6 from 3-8 p.m. Market: Sat/ Sun Dec. 7-8 and 14-15, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. 4745 Bob Godfrey Rd.
by Margie E. Burke
Dr. Jerry Brinegar
In Santa Claus and the Virgin Mary, local author & therapist Dr. Jerry Brinegar investigates religion’s dual role as humanity’s blessing and burden at a time when democracy is at a tipping point. Dr. Brinegar challenges religious orthodoxy across world religions and offers the reader a guide to examine their own beliefs.
An excellent resource for group discussion and personal growth.
Available in print and digital on Amazon. Read a sample by scanning the QR code or visit a.co/d/7vFFC7H
