NATURE SCHOOL
COMEDIAN
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Alicia Nickles
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner
ADVERTISING SALES Libba Beaucham, Dave Martin
CITY EDITOR Blake Aued
ARTS & MUSIC EDITOR Jessica Smith
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin
OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene
CLASSIFIEDS Jennifer Keene
AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson
CONTRIBUTORS Chris Dowd, Gordon Lamb, Rebecca McCarthy, Ed Tant
CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser
CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe
EDITORIAL INTERN Mary Beth Bryan
PHOTOGRAPHER Jake Zerkel
SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons
Violent Violet
city dope
Half and Half
ACC COMMISSION REACHES NEW HIGH FOR MINORITY REPRESENTATION, AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued, Chris Dowd and Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com
Former Athens- Clarke County auditor Stephanie Johnson took her oath of office as commissioner Jan. 7 in front of a large crowd who celebrated the occasion as historic. Johnson’s swearing-in marked the first time in Athens history when half of the city council or commission seats were held by people of color.
Alvin Sheats, a former ACC commissioner and the president of the Athens NAACP, expressed his joy during public comment about finally achieving equal representation for the Black community. “This elected body reflects the possibility of fair and equitable representation. It kind of bothers me that we had to wait this long, but thank God we are here,” Sheats said. “Had this makeup of elected officials been here, some of our unified charter hopes and dreams would not have died. Beginning tonight, you have the power to resurrect dreams and hopes deferred.”
Johnson ran on a platform of government transparency, fiscal conservatism and fighting crime. She did not promise specific action in her platform on improving equity, affordable housing, living wages or similar issues, but she promised the audience that she would remain focused on the needs of her constituents and that she would be available when they have questions. “I am committed to putting people over politics every single day. Engagement and open dialog with the community will be the cornerstone of my approach,” she said.
voting against raises for a population of people who are in a position y’all talking about you care about.”
Barbara Daniel, a longtime resident of Athens’ Lexington Heights neighborhood who became a housing activist after she was displaced by her landlord in 2022, did not mince words in her comments to commissioners. “This year, by God’s will, we will have affordable homes put back in Athens so we can have a lot of people off the streets,” Daniel said. “It’s time and it’s
based on complaints from constituents living nearby. They have failed to take action on things like eliminating single family zoning and also on less controversial policies like allowing new duplexes, quadplexes and accessory dwelling units.
Whether a commission that is significantly more conservative than last year will continue to make progress on affordable housing this year remains to be seen.
In her end-of-meeting comments, Commissioner Ovita Thornton spoke to the
agenda and takes over for the mayor during negotiations to finalize the ACC budget every year.
The commission approved $162,583 for a new homeowner counseling program with the goal of supporting homeownership, financial literacy and long- term asset building for Athens residents. The programs will include housing counseling classes, workshops, one-on-one counseling and direct financial support for those threatened by housing instability free of charge for Athens- Clarke County residents. The Athens Land Trust and the East Athens Development Corporation will run these programs which will last through the second quarter of 2026.
The commission also approved a settlement with Charles Hardy, former director of the First Step homeless encampment, to reimburse him for some personal items he claims to have left behind at the camp when he was removed as director in 2023. The settlement also releases the claim the local government filed against Hardy for mismanagement of First Step funds, which was for significantly more money.
If Johnson’s opponent, Rashe Malcolm, had won, she also would have brought the commission to up to five Black members— an over-representation based on Athens’ demographics (26.2% of Athens residents are Black, with another 8.1% identifying as multiracial, according to recent Census data).
Other members of the Black community in Athens also congratulated Johnson and the other commissioners who were reelected, but asked for progress on pressing issues like affordable housing, living wages and closing the racial wealth gap. “I know you serve more than just the Black community, but at the same time, there are things that can be done to foster more equity and inclusion, such as the disparity study,” said Broderick Flanigan, executive director of the Economic Justice Coalition. “But I haven’t seen any tangible things come out of that work yet,”
Flanigan continued, expressing disappointment that the commission denied a cost-of-living wage increase to those employed in the Neighborhood Leaders program. “Those are mostly Black women in those positions,” Flanigan said. “You’re
time and it’s time and it’s time now to make that change! We have no more time playing around. We need these homes for these students that go to Cedar Shoals, Clarke Central, middle school, elementary school, that don’t have homes… The Lord said, don’t forget about the poor.’”
The commission does not have the power to force landlords to offer affordable rents or to make them accept Section 8 housing vouchers. The local government also does not have the resources to construct many more affordable units than it is already providing funding for with the North Downtown Athens project (the redevelopment of Bethel Homes), which should be opening soon.
The commission also funded a new affordable housing investment strategy last year that should encourage the construction of more affordable homes going forward, if they continue to make the strategy a priority. Furthermore, commissioners have approved the construction of hundreds of affordable apartment units and even some affordable single- family homes in recent years.
However, it’s true that the commission has not always done everything in its power to reduce rents or encourage affordable housing in Athens. For example, they often deny or scale back housing developments
newly elected officials, including Johnson, but also Coroner Michael Eberhart and Tax Commissioner JP Lemay, who were present at this meeting. “Welcome, new folk, you’re going to get beat up like the rest of us now,” Thornton said.
Thornton also responded directly to Daniel about affordable housing in her closing remarks. “I don’t know why we gotta go through all of these hoops, but I do want to continue to push forward because until we see housing that different incomes can afford, we are still not doing our job,” Thornton said. “It’s not right to just say ‘housing is a problem everywhere.’ That is just an excuse, in my opinion. We should be setting the pace and leading the way on housing.”
Thornton did not explain what hoops she had been jumping through or how she had been pushing for affordable housing in recent years.
As the first meeting of the year, the commission’s agenda was fairly light but did include some items of note.
Commissioner Dexter Fisher was elected mayor pro tem unanimously by his colleagues for a one- year term. The mayor pro tem fills in for the mayor when he is absent, sick or otherwise unable to fulfill the duties of the office. The mayor pro tem also works closely with the mayor to set the monthly
Hardy submitted a handwritten note as his only documentation for the items he says he left behind, which included a pool table ($4,908), stove ($799), refrigerator ($680) and two Wi-Fi routers ($900) among others. Hardy did not provide receipts.
Commissioner Patrick Davenport expressed a strong dissenting opinion. “There are a lot of issues with this settlement,” Davenport said. “There was no investigation. There was no discovery. There was no bank statement provided… This settlement alone is a slap in the face to our constituents who pay hard earned money through their property taxes, for a claim that was basically written on a piece of paper.”
Davenport’s motion failed 3–5, with commissioners Melissa Link and Carol Myers the only others voting in favor. Johnson abstained, and Commissioner Mike Hamby was absent. Then the commission voted on a motion made by Thornton to accept the settlement, which passed 5–3 along the same lines. [Chris Dowd]
Interim ACC Manager Appointed
Mayor Kelly Girtz has named retired former planning director Brad Griffin interim manager.
Griffin will run the Athens- Clarke County government day- to-day and manage its more than 1,700 employees while a national search is underway for a permanent manager.
“In his time as planning director, Brad Griffin established exemplary relationships with elected officials, peers across departments and members of the public,” Girtz said in a news release. “He holds a deep well of knowledge about local government operations and will maintain the positive direction we established under earlier managers.”
The ACC Commission ratified Girtz’s recommendation at its Jan. 7 voting meeting.
From left, incumbent commissioners Melissa Link, Allison Wright, Carol Myers and Mike Hamby take the oath of office, along with newly elected commissioner Stephanie Johnson, shown with her husband, Athens-Clarke County police Capt. Jefferey Johnson. Probate Court Judge Susan Schaffer (right) administered the oath prior to the commission’s Jan. 7 meeting.
CHRIS DOWD
Griffin is coming out of retirement to take over the manager’s office temporarily. He stepped down in June after 24 years heading the ACC Planning Department.
“Although I am enjoying retirement, I was honored to be considered for the Interim Manager position during this transition period,” Griffin said. “I am grateful to help serve the community, ACCGov, and our employees again in this new capacity.”
Acting Manager Niki Jones is resigning effective Jan. 17 to move closer to family, accepting a job as assistant manager in Raleigh, NC. He was named acting manager after Blaine Williams, who held the position for 10 years, resigned in June. [Blake Aued]
Land Trust Names New Director
The Athens Land Trust has hired Demetrius D. Jordan, a former Atlanta United Way employee, as its new executive director.
Jordan takes over for Heather Benham, who resigned six months ago to take a job as a housing consultant. Vanna Cure, previously the vice chair of the land trust’s board of directors, has been leading the organization in the interim.
Jordan previously served as vice president of regional development at United Way Atlanta, where he raised $36 million for housing, education and health care programs, according to the ALT.
“I am honored to join Athens Land Trust and to work alongside such a passionate and dedicated team,” Jordan said in a news release. “As we celebrate 30 years of achievements, I look forward to building on the incredible foundation laid by Athens Land Trust’s past and present staff and community partnerships and leading the organization toward even greater impact in the years ahead.”
The ALT builds affordable housing using a model where the homeowner owns the building but the land underneath is held in trust, lowering the cost and keeping the home permanently affordable. It also protects farmland and runs a weekly farmers market and youth programs to train students in agriculture and construction, among other programs. [BA]
OCAF Steadies the Ship
There were a few months of choppy water for the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation a while ago. But a new interim director came on board in March, and a new board of directors was installed in July, so members believe there’s smooth sailing ahead for the nonprofit arts organization.
After a period where two employees were fired and members accused the board of directors of a lack of transparency, the board now meets monthly, and its meetings are open to the public. Minutes of meetings, along with email addresses for all the board members, are posted on the OCAF website.
Perspectives, a juried show and sale of ceramics from 50 potters, was held in late summer in a repaired Rocket Hall on the OCAF campus. Before Perspectives opened to the public, a fundraising gala was well attended, with parents having the option of bringing their children for crafts in the School Street Studios. The popular thrift sale, a fundraising event, is scheduled for the spring.
“We’ve had a solid end to our year,” interim director Paul Clark said. “Both the holiday market and the artists’ shop have been even better than in years past.”
The staff has launched an active membership drive, contacting members who may have lost touch with the organization and reaching out to recruit new members, especially families with young children. The organization held a Halloween camp for children and scheduled winter camps around New Year’s and spring break. Summer camps are also on the horizon, as are after school activities during the academic year.
Much of what the board of directors has been doing is “restructuring and updating OCAF’s processes, with the staff and volunteers,” Clark said. “We’re working on new bylaws.”
Board member Rob Farley said 30–40 people have responded to an ad for a permanent director for OCAF, “and there are some very good candidates.” He says interviews will likely start in January. [Rebecca McCarthy] f
The Duality of Jan. 20
MLK DAY 2025 FALLS ON TRUMP’S INAUGURATION
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
When Donald J. Trump is inaugurated as president on Jan. 20, millions of Americans will be commemorating the life and legacy of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Here in Athens, MLK Day events will begin downtown at the historic “Hot Corner” area that has long been a center of African American history, commerce and entertainment in this city. For more information, see aadmovement.org or Calendar Picks.
cians who seek nothing more than to grow their own power—has become dangerously fragile at home.”
In the column, Carter decried America’s current disunity. “Promoters of the lie that the election was stolen have taken over one political party and stoked distrust in our electoral systems,” he wrote.
If he were alive today, Martin Luther King Jr. would probably join Carter’s clarion call to preserve the ideals of the American
King was a leader in the struggle for racial harmony and international peace whose 1968 murder in Memphis sparked a long campaign for a holiday in his honor. Finally, in 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill making the third Monday in January a national observance of the birth of the civil rights firebrand. The holiday was first observed nationally on Jan. 20, 1986, though local marches in support of the observance had been held in Athens, Atlanta and many other cities for years before MLK Day was made official 38 years ago.
Today the King holiday has evolved into the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, when organizations and individuals perform worthwhile work to improve their communities. John Lewis, a longtime Georgia politician and a youthful disciple of King, worked to make the MLK holiday a time of national service, and his efforts came to fruition in 1994.
The courage and commitment of King and his thousands of unsung allies changed the Jim Crow South and inspired the world. “The 1964 Civil Rights Act was the best thing that ever happened to the South in my lifetime,” recalled former President Jimmy Carter, who died at age 100 on Dec. 29.
Three years ago, in the Jan. 5, 2022, edition of The New York Times, Carter wrote a warning to his fellow Americans headlined “I Fear for Our Democracy.” Writing a year after a Trump-inspired MAGA mob of insurrectionists stormed the Capitol in Washington on Jan. 6, 2021, Carter said, “I now fear that what we have fought so hard to achieve globally—the right to free, fair elections, unhindered by strongman politi-
democratic republic from the plunder and plutocracy of a home-grown authoritarian regime. “Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity,” King wrote in 1963. His words still hold true today.
Both King and Lewis are the subjects of new biographies published just in time for this year’s MLK Day observances. King:
A Life, by Jonathan Eig, is a lengthy but readable biography that became a New York Times bestseller and a winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize. Davis Greenberg’s John Lewis: A Life is a definitive biography of the footsoldier for freedom in the 1960s who went on to become “the conscience of Capitol Hill” during his years of service as a United States congressman.
Over a span of decades I have attended many events in Athens, Atlanta and Washington, DC commemorating King’s life and legacy. In 2003 I flew to the nation’s capital to document with pen and camera a colossal peace rally that took place there on MLK Day two months before the Iraq War began. Marchers assembled on the Capitol lawn, but there was no damage to the venerable building during the peaceful event.
Six years later I was again in Washington when history was made on MLK Day there. On Jan. 20, 2009, President Barack Obama was inaugurated during the King holiday. I was in the press area on Capitol Hill as some 2 million citizens attending the inauguration felt King’s spirit on MLK Day. To see my photographs from those events, visit my website at extant.com.
As Donald Trump returns to the White House on MLK Day, King’s words still resonate: “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” f
Donald Trump is sworn in Friday, Jan. 20, 2016.
OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PHOTO BY GRANT MILLER
Let the Games Begin
WHAT WILL THE GEORGIA LEGISLATURE DO IN 2025?
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
“Workforce” was the word of the day last month at the University of Georgia’s Biennial Institute, where hundreds of legislators, other state officials and lobbyists gather every two years to learn from experts about issues coming before the General Assembly.
Literacy, child care, health care, mental health, energy and artificial intelligence were among the topics covered during the three-day conference, held at the Center for Continuing Education Dec. 8–10. In addition, Gov. Brian Kemp announced in his keynote speech that tax cuts, tort reform, funds for recovering from Hurricane Helene, combating human trafficking and relief from inflation will be his top priorities for the legislative session, which began Jan. 13 and runs for 40 working days (usually until late March or early April).
The action will take place against the backdrop of an aging state where growth is primarily driven by people moving to Georgia seeking jobs, rather than births. It’s also a state that remains red politically, although one where Democrats can win under the right circumstances, so even though Republicans remain in power, they will have to resist the urge to overreach if they want to stay there.
Demographics
Georgia’s population more than doubled between 1970–2010, from 4.6 million to 9.6 million, with 3 million of those added between 1990–2010, according to Taylor Hafley, an applied demographer at UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government.
Florida, Texas, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alabama, South Carolina, New York, California, Virginia or Illinois. For the most part, those are also the states Georgians who leave are moving to.
The fastest growth is happening in metro Atlanta, the North Georgia mountains and the Savannah area, while Middle and South Georgia counties are mostly stagnant or losing population. Three of the 10 fastestgrowing counties are near Athens—Oconee (27.4% growth since 2010), Jackson (25.5%) and Barrow (20.4%). Clarke County fell just outside the top 10 but still grew at a more than 10% clip.
Georgia’s population is getting more diverse, with minorities poised to become
had cast their ballots for Vice President Kamala Harris, “it’d have been very close. In fact, we’d probably still be counting ballots,” Bullock joked. But she won only 28% of whites, and the Black vote share was 29%. In addition, youth turnout was down.
Still, there is hope for Democrats in future elections, as their base in metro Atlanta continues to expand geographically. Fayette County will be the next to flip, Bullock predicted. “You have to run up your votes as a Democrat in metro Atlanta,” he said. But Harris didn’t do that—she won by smaller margins than Biden.
Meanwhile, Trump did run up the score in his strongest counties, like Cherokee, Forsyth, Hall, Coweta and Bartow on the outskirts of the Atlanta suburbs, primarily based on his popularity with non- college educated and evangelical whites. But Gov. Brian Kemp did even better in those areas in 2022. Trump “doesn’t have quite the pull that our homegrown Republicans do,” Bullock said. The 50.7% of the vote Trump received in Georgia last year “is not a blowout victory,” he said. “We do remain very competitive.”
such as banning local governments from enacting zoning regulations like large lot sizes that encourage expensive housing. But there are other ways, like tax incentives, for the state to spur affordable housing development.
“We do have a problem with housing in the state of Georgia, and trying to build ourselves out of it is going to be very difficult,” said state Rep. Debbie Buckner (D- Junction City).
Some of the challenges facing Gainesville are similar to those facing Athens, where the housing market is warped by the 30,000 UGA students living off campus and thousands of football fans who rent Airbnbs on gameday weekends. The city of 48,000 has no major university but three smaller colleges, and Lake Lanier draws 12 million visitors a year. Like Athens, it’s also a health care hub with large manufacturing and service-industry sectors.
Jessica Tullar, Gainesville’s housing and special projects manager, told Biennial Institute attendees that the city is using federal grants like HOME and Community Development Block Grants, the stateadministered federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit and tax allocation districts to partner with the Gainesville Housing Authority and private developers to redevelop aging public housing and build new affordable housing. Houses under $400,000 are almost impossible to find except in Gainesville’s least desirable neighborhoods, Tullar said, but subsidized new housing in one Gainesville development is priced at $290,000.
Since then that growth has slowed, but Georgia remains the 13th fastest-growing state. In terms of raw numbers, Georgia has added more people than any state except North Carolina, Florida and Texas since 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates.
By 2050, Georgia is expected to grow from 11 million people to 13.5 million, but the growth rate is projected to slow to 4% from 10%. However, that would still outpace the national growth rate of 1%.
That growth is mainly driven by migration. Births have fallen from a high of 151,000 in 2007 to 125,000 in 2023. People are waiting longer to have children, so they’re also having fewer of them, according to Hafley. Meanwhile, deaths spiked from 86,000 in 2019 to 112,000 in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, but have since fallen to 97,000. Net births over deaths have fallen from 60,000 in 2011 to 30,000 in 2023.
That’s about the same net number of people who migrated to Georgia from another country in 2023. Meanwhile, domestic migration added a net 60,000 people. Two- thirds of those people moved to Georgia from one of just 10 states:
a majority soon. In 1980, the breakdown was 72% white, 27% Black and 1% other. In 2021, it was 51% white, 32% Black, 10% Hispanic and 7% other. Whites make up just 43% of Georgians under age 25, compared to 71% of those 75 and up.
“Even though we are aging, the economy is aging faster,” Hafley said. Just 729,000 out of 8.1 million Georgians were of retirement age (65-plus) in 2000. In 2020, it was 1.6 million out of 10.1 million, and by 2050 it will be 3 million out of 13.5 million.
Politics
Despite narrow victories for President Joe Biden and Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock in 2020, and Warnock’s successful re-election campaign in 2022, Georgia remains red, according to UGA political science professor Charles Bullock.
“The default condition for Georgia is [that] this a Republican state,” Bullock told legislators over breakfast. “True, Democrats can win, have won, but under normal conditions, this is a Republican state.”
The old “30/30” rule for Georgia politics remains in effect—Democrats need the electorate to be 30% Black and to win 30% of the white vote. If 30% of white voters
That means Georgia voters can expect wall- to- wall campaign ads to continue. “You may want to invest in a streaming service,” Bullock said. “Either that or invest in WSB.”
Historically, the party that’s out of power does well in midterm elections, so Bullock said he expects Democrats to win back the U.S. House in 2026. “When the team is not doing well, things are struggling, what happens? You fire coach. Biden essentially pulled a Steve Spurrier,” he said, referring to the South Carolina coach who resigned midseason in 2015.
“One person who’s probably breathing a sigh of relief is Jon Ossoff,” Bullock said. “He doesn’t have to deal with Harris in the White House.”
Housing, Child Care and Literacy
Republicans are generally opposed to social safety-net programs, but one way to get them to sit up and pay attention is to talk about how costly child care and housing are impediments to businesses hiring workers.
For several years legislators have considered measures to bring down housing costs,
Athens- Clarke County also receives HOME and CDBG grants, which it distributes to nonprofits like the Athens Land Trust and Habitat for Humanity to build infill housing and larger developments like Micah’s Creek in East Athens. The Athens Housing Authority has received LIHTC funds—which are very competitive—for projects like Columbia Brookside, the Bethel Midtown Village redevelopment and, more recently, developments slated for Hull Road and Atlanta Highway. A TAD is funding below-market housing at the Georgia Square Mall redevelopment by reinvesting taxes from new growth in the area back into the project.
Gainesville has also taken a step AthensClarke County has not by increasing density and simplifying the waiver process. “We’ve made it easier for developers to attain what they need to provide some housing affordability for our low-income residents,” Tullar said.
Child care expenses are another obstacle to work. A Senate study committee recently issued a report calling for tax credits for parents, child care educators and daycares to help offset costs, as well as potentially expanding pre-K to 3- year-olds and legislation protecting new and expecting parents from discrimination.
“Right now it costs more to have a baby in our state than tuition at one of our public colleges,” said Sen. Brian Strickland (R-McDonough), the chair of the study committee. About 35% of families spend at least a third of their income on child care, and 36% of parents left the workforce because of child care expenses.
“If you can’t find a safe, secure place to place your child while you work, you may
Gov. Brian Kemp gives the Biennial Institute’s keynote address Dec. 10 at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education.
decide that it’s not worth the effort given the cost,” said Sen. Sonya Halpern (D- Atlanta), adding that she spends more than her salary as a legislator on child care for her third grader.
Child care could be an area where lawmakers reach bipartisan agreement to spend some of Georgia’s $16 billion budget surplus. “If you invest now, you’ll spend less later,” Strickland said.
Access to quality child care would, over the years, help address a literacy crisis. More than 1 million Georgians lack basic literacy skills, according to Joyce Hawkins, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement. “If you don’t have a foundation in literacy,” she said, “good luck.”
Children from low-income families have vocabularies that are 30,000 words smaller than those from higher-income families, according to Hawkins, setting them up for problems later in life. Students who can’t read by third grade are more likely to drop out of high school, live in poverty and possibly wind up incarcerated, she said.
“It’s not only a moral imperative—it’s good business,” Hawkins said. “The biggest barrier to employment is the inability to read.”
AI and Energy
One might jest that, in a room full of Georgia legislators, artificial intelligence would be the only intelligence there. Needless to say, at least some members of the General Assembly are excited about it.
“Without question, this is going to cure cancer,” said Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell), chair of a study committee that released a report on AI in December.
“We believe that this will probably be the biggest thing that impacts our lifetimes,” he said, comparing it to the wheel rather than smartphones.
Albers and Rep. Brad Thomas (R-Holly Springs) said AI will lead to innovations not only in health care, but transportation, entertainment, literacy and manufacturing as well. While much of it is positive, there are downsides—like data privacy issues— so guardrails need to be in place. For example, 85% of people are concerned about deepfake videos influencing elections, said Thomas, the vice chair of the House Technology, Infrastructure and Innovation Committee.
As Georgia considers its AI policies, Chief Digital Officer Nikhil Deshpande said it’s imperative that humans remain involved in decision-making. AI must be used ethically and transparently, and privacy must be protected, he said. “We don’t want to unleash something and let the bots take over,” he said.
AI requires a lot of computing power, and the data centers popping all over Atlanta suck up a lot of energy. Along with reshoring manufacturing plants and the transition to electric vehicles, power demands are rising for the first time in 20 years, according to David Gattie, an engineering professor at UGA.
“Those data centers want to come to Georgia for a variety of reasons,” Gattie said. “One of them is power generation.” But their power demands are putting upward pressure on rates, and Gattie advised policymakers to make sure the public is receiving a benefit in exchange. (Unlike a factory, data centers don’t directly
create jobs.) “Don’t let them take the marginal electricity that’s the cheapest and not pay for the cost of capacity,” he said.
Despite two new reactors at Plant Vogtle coming online last year—at a cost of $35 billion—Georgia is “running low on power plant capacity,” Gattie said.
Natural gas has become “the workhorse” of Georgia’s power supply, Gattie said, making up 47% of Georgia’s energy supply, with 28% coming from nuclear, 13% coal, 6% solar and 2.5% hydroelectric. While the nation is transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner renewable energy, he said coal should remain part of the mix as a reliable backstop, while renewables provide energy at peak times. Coal can be stored onsite and isn’t as susceptible to supply problems as gas, which comes in by pipeline, he said. Some states with higher energy costs are having buyer’s remorse about shutting down coal plants, he said.
Gattie did not address the costs of climate change from burning fossil fuels or the health impact of generating more electricity. A recent study found that pollution from power plants and generators to run AI data centers could result in 1,300 premature deaths by 2030, with a public health cost of $20 billion.
Health Care
Georgia is already feeling the effects of the 2022 Mental Health Care Parity Act, which requires insurers to cover mental illness the same as physical illness, created loan cancellation and reimbursement programs for mental health and substance abuse professionals, but data sharing among siloed agencies remains a challenge, according to Elizabeth Holcomb, director of health strategy and coordination in the governor’s office. The legislature committed to spending $500 million over five years on mental health care.
“We have had a tremendous increase in investment in the system, and I think it’s starting to pay dividends,” said Kevin Tanner, commissioner of the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.
The department currently has crisis centers at five hospitals, but eight more are needed, Tanner said. Three are currently under construction in Fulton County, Dublin and Augusta.
DBHDD is now fully staffed for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Tanner said, and all beds are available. But there are still shortages: 150 out of Georgia’s 159 counties lack enough mental health care providers, and the state is competing for doctors and nurses with the private sector, which offers higher pay and shorter hours.
“Today we have 769 people in jail waiting on a hospital bed,” Tanner said, adding that defendants facing misdemeanor charges were often staying in jail longer than if they had pleaded guilty. Nearly 100 forensic beds were scheduled to be brought online by the end of last year. DBHDD provides forensic services to courts to determine if defendants suffering from mental illness are competent to stand trial, and to treat them if they are not. A forensic workgroup was scheduled to submit recommendations to the legislature on the effects of untreated behavioral disorders on the criminal justice system and ways to support people transitioning out of it. The department’s
first transitional facility recently opened in Savannah.
Tanner also discussed the opioid crisis— 70% of overdoses are from opioids, primarily fentanyl—and the state’s $638 million share of a massive opioid settlement, 75% of which is going into a trust that will distribute grants, with the other 25% split among local governments.
The department’s 988 suicide hotline receives about 5,000 calls, texts and chats per week, up 17% over 2023, Tanner said, and more of them come from rural areas than urban. He attributed that to stigma, a fear of small- town gossip and lack of access to mental health care in rural communities.
Georgia is expanding health care in other ways, too, such as UGA’s new medical school (previously run in partnership with Augusta University) that will double the school’s size to 120 students per class over the next few years. The first class is expected to enroll in August 2026. In addition, a new medical and dental school is opening at Georgia Southern’s Savannah campus. “We do need to do better,” said Shelly Nuss, founding dean of the UGA medical school, “but we moved the needle.”
Georgia currently ranks 40th in physicians per capita, with just 20 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 36, according to Nuss. Dozens of counties lack psychiatrists, pediatricians, OB/GYNs and other specialists, and 10 counties have no physician at all. Twenty counties don’t have a dentist, and there is a need to add 13,000 nurses by 2030, she said.
UGA is already producing future doctors, just not necessarily in Georgia. The university ranks 9th in medical applicants, Nuss said. UGA also receives more National Institute of Health funding than any other university without a medical school.
The Trump administration will bring changes to health care, said Caylee Noggle, president and CEO of the Georgia Hospitals Association. Republicans are unlikely to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, as they nearly did during Trump’s first term, but enhanced ACA subsidies Democrats passed during the pandemic will expire in December, leaving 336,000 Georgians uninsured and facing an 85% increase in premiums.
Trump’s nominee for secretary of health and human services is Robert Kennedy Jr., a noted conspiracy theorist who has vowed to remove fluoride from drinking water. Noggle noted that the federal government has no authority to do that; still, no one is sure what Kennedy or Dr. Mehmet Oz, Trump’s pick to oversee Medicaid and Medicare, will do. “There will be a lot of noise,” she said. Ultimately, though, decisions will come down to money, not ideology, she said. And many states that, unlike Georgia, accepted federal funds for Medicaid expansion supported Trump.
Getting doctors to accept Medicaid is already a challenge even before any cuts. It only pays 65% of the cost, so only 61% of doctors accept it, said Sen. Ben Watson (R- Savannah), a medical doctor. Watson also defended Kemp’s Pathways to Coverage program—instituted with a federal waiver in lieu of Medicaid expansion—despite just 4,000 people enrolling as of June. If people can’t meet the requirement to work 20 hours a week or go to school, they should file for disability, he said.
“Is Georgia going to be a model for the rest of the nation?” Watson said. “I think that’s very possible.” f
Noah James Saunders’ Ode to a Watering Hole
By Jessica Smith arts@flagpole.com
Athens artist Noah James Saunders is best known for his large- scale, three-dimensional portraits shaped from everyday wire. Often suspended so they are free to gently spin or sway, these prism-like sculptures cast an infinite number of shadows resulting in the illusion of subtly shifting expressions.
His latest body of work, “Ode to a Watering Hole,” represents his expansion as an artist, shifting in both scale and dimension to further push the limits of wire as a medium. Ephemeral in nature, these intimate “wire drawings” of hair- thin copper wire depict bar scenes preserved between sheets of fused glass.
Showcasing this innovative new approach through 22 works, “Ode to a Watering Hole” will be on view during a pop-up reception at tiny ATH gallery on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 6–9 p.m. The images capture how the mood of a bar can morph from hour to hour and day to day.
“Every sculpture is a direct inspiration or amalgamation of related thematic memories of what I’ve seen over the years in Athens bars,” says Saunders. “Over the years, I have seen the types that one finds in a bar: the sad young man, the jaded single woman, the nervous one waiting for a second date to arrive, the old sage looking for his next student, the warm motherly type, the one who is too cool to realize just how magical this particular night is. Many of these characters make it into our singer- songwriter songs. They can be found in most bars across America, but here in Athens I feel we make ample room for these folks to fill these roles. In fact, I’m getting old enough to have seen one person fill in the same character type as played by someone of the previous generation. Even sitting in the same barstool and wearing similar clothes. It’s like in Athens bars we are all acting out an ancient play, the roles must be filled!”
“An Athens Bar on Monday at 3 p.m. is nothing like Friday at midnight,” says Saunders. “Even in the same bar, if I go for a drink at about 5 then go to dinner and return at 9, I am always struck at how different the place feels. Like a classical symphony that starts off gentle and ends much later in a smashing crescendo.”
The seed of inspiration for these portraits was planted several years ago by Christie Moody of Blue Heron Glass Art, who encouraged him to consider the fact that copper
Drawing inspiration from how museums often display artifacts, they devised a way for the works to be framed and mounted on top of a slightly textured white gesso similar to the textured quality that the glass takes on in the kiln.
In recent years Saunders has sustained his creative endeavors by breaking out of the retail art model and seeking the support of patrons through pre- sales and donations. Last January, he spent 100 days in Los Angeles as part of a residency at Creature Comforts Brewing Co., and in 2018 he studied art in Italy for a month after being selected as a finalist for the Luxembourg Prize. For this specific exhibition, he set a goal of raising $7,700 to cover material costs, framing, photographic documentation and out-of-pocket expenses as he created the work over the course of six months.
After the first few works successfully came out of the glass kiln this past summer, Saunders headed to Normal Bar to celebrate and gather feedback from the bar’s regulars. Fittingly, this is where he ran into Camille Hayes and Linda Macbeth, the outgoing and incoming curators of tiny ATH gallery, who invited him to share his new series.
Though each individual work was created with a specific location in mind, Saunders chose to lean into the universality of bar culture by instead naming each piece with the day of the week and time of day that the scene envisions. By doing so, he invites viewers to relate and reminisce about their own experiences.
and glass have the same expansion rate, meaning that glass can be melted around copper without cracking. After some trial and error, Saunders and Moody refined a process for preserving his “portraits of moments” in glass.
In preparation of his first solo exhibition in Athens in over eight years, Saunders reached out to carpenter and musician Joe Willey about how to best display the works.
This month marks a major milestone in the gallery’s history, as founder Hayes has officially transferred ownership to Macbeth—a decision spurred by a serendipitous happy hour at Hidden Gem.
“After five years of what started as a passion project and effort in creating a new gallery space and brand, I’m ready to pass the torch,” says Hayes, who works as the director of marketing for local branding agency Kaptiv8 in addition to running her own freelance graphic design business. “I was extremely fortunate to connect with Linda so she can keep the gallery going. As an artist and a former director of the Science & Discovery Center of Northwest Florida, she definitely has the experience and passion to keep it going and make positive decisions for the gallery, artists and community.”
Moving forward, the gallery plans to continue showcasing a different artist each month, primarily locals, but now with the potential of bringing in artists from New Orleans and other cities Macbeth has connections to. In addition to the gallery’s staple receptions held during Third Thursday, Macbeth also hopes to begin hosting small classes.
Hayes says she’s most proud of “creating a space where people loved to come and support artists they were already friends with or learn about and support artists they’d never heard of… I loved when people would come at the beginning of an event and stay and chat with the artists and other community members the whole evening.” f
rock me amadeus
2025 flagpole Athens Favo rites
ART | THU, JAN. 16
‘Twist’ and ‘Distillations’ Opening Reception
Lyndon House Arts Center • 5:30–7:30 p.m. • FREE!
Two new exhibits are opening now through mid-March at Lyndon House Arts Center: Carol John’s “Twist” and Johntimothy Pizzuto and Patti Roberts-Pizzuto’s “Distillations.” John, an Athens-based artist who studied at the School of Visual Arts in New York City and has exhibited works in museums across the country, presents a series of paintings that focus on repeating marks and shapes that move across their canvases with vibrancy. The pieces reflect John’s dedicated daily studio routine, which has resulted in hundreds of paintings that she is constantly reworking and using to explore pattern, color and composition. “Distillations” combines the constructions of Johntimothy, which consist of scraps of frame molding, intaglio prints, small boards and found objects, with the delicate and wandering drawings of Patti. The life partners’ work explores memory and temporality, contrasting atmospheric marks with manufactured edges. The two are originally from South Dakota and have enjoyed numerous exhibitions and publications of their work before moving to Athens in their recent retirement. [Mary Beth Bryan]
ART | FRI, JAN. 17
Broderick Flanigan Opening Reception
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens • 5 p.m. • FREE!
Athenian Broderick Flanigan’s commitment to making art for underserved audiences and cultivating a more equitable cultural landscape began after an art appreciation course and a spiritual awakening rekindled his lifelong gift to create. In 2015 he founded Helping Art Reach Public Spaces (HARPS), an outreach initiative to introduce youth to hands-on entrepreneurial experience and the artmaking process. He has also run First Fridays, a series where nonprofits and community leaders inform residents about opportunities to become more engaged. Flanigan has created many murals across the city, but now a series of his works will be housed in an exhibit called “Family Val-hues” following the themes of uplifting and love that he often focuses on in his art by depicting the faces of the families in his life. [MB]
MUSIC | SAT, JAN. 18
Bit Brigade
recorded music already follows a unique premise, its distinctive approach to live shows is what has really set it apart and garnered its following. Gamer Noah McCarthy ups the tension at Bit Brigade shows by speedrunning the games on stage as the band plays their soundtracks. Whatever happens on the Nintendo, the band plays on. Bit Brigade’s 2025 tour is taking “Super Mario World” and “F-Zero” across the country, kicking off with this hometown show. Local indie math rock band Real Wow will be opening the show. [MB]
EVENT | MON, JAN. 20
MLK Day of Service
Various Locations • 8:30 a.m. • FREE!
Athens is inviting the community to honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through a day of volunteer service projects. The day will begin with a kickoff celebration from 8:30–9:30 a.m. at the Lay Park Gymnasium where the first 400 volunteers will receive a limited-edition long sleeve T- shirt. From 10 a.m.–12 p.m., over 30 organizations, government agencies and schools will be hosting service projects. Among the service opportunities are road clean-up with Nuçi’s Space, apartment painting with Project Safe, beautifying the Historic Brooklyn Cemetery, invasive species removal at Shoal Creek Sanctuary and many more. A complete list of volunteer events and their locations can be found at givepulse.com/group/118913- Athens-MLKDay-of- Service. [MB]
EVENT | MON, JAN. 20
MLK Jr. Day Parade & Music Fest
Downtown Athens • 3 p.m. • FREE!
Honoring the legacy of one of America’s most esteemed civil rights activists, the ninth annual MLK Jr. Day Parade & Music Fest invites individuals, schools, nonprofits
Georgia Theatre • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $25–30
Athens-based band Bit Brigade is known for its wide discography covering Nintendo video game soundtracks. Over the past couple of decades, the band has covered classics like “Contra,” “Castlevania,” “DuckTales” and more. Though Bit Brigade’s
and organizations from Athens and surrounding counties to promote King’s message of justice, unity and action. The event is put on by the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement and the United Group of Artists Music Association, this year with the theme “The Time is Always Right to Do What is Right.” The parade will begin at the corner of Hull Street and Washington Street and continue through downtown Athens. The event will also feature family- friendly activities, vendors and live music, as well as a screening of the AADM’s documentary, Changing the Narrative: Stories of Black and Minority Entrepreneurs. [MB] f
MLK Jr. Day Parade
SUZANNAH EVANS
Romantic
Tuesday, January 21 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall
Featuring Levon Ambartsumian, violin, Shakhida Azimkhodjaeva, viola, James Kim, cello, and Anatoly Sheludyakov, piano
$15 - Adults | $3 - UGA student with valid ID
January 30
$20 - Adults | $3 - UGA student with valid ID
UGA CHORAL PROJECT “TWO STREAMS”
Two Streams (2021) is a cantata in 14 movements for choir and string orchestra that incorporates elements of Chant, Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, and contemporary styles.
Saturday, January 18 at 6 p.m.
First Christian Church
268 W Dougherty St, Athens, GA
Encore: Tuesday, January 21 at 5:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall, UGA PAC
GUEST ARTIST AND UGA ALUM CAROLINE LEIGH HALLECK, saxophone
Thursday, January 23 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall, UGA PAC
Master class Wednesday, January 22 at 6:30 p.m. in Edge Hall, HHSOM Building 250 River Road
Featuring: Emily Elmore, flute; JT Holdbrooks, bassoon; Thomas LaMon, cello; Mengyuan Li, piano; David Ma, flute; Elena Minko, piano; and Haoying Wu, piano.
live music calendar
Tuesday 14
Hendershot’s
No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID Instrumental adventure-jazz group centered around the compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Luca Lombardi, Seth Hendershot and guests.
Normal Bar
8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com
OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
FACULTY ARTIST SERIES Featuring Matthew Shipes, assistant professor of tuba and euphonium at UGA and tubist with the Georgia Brass Quintet.
Wednesday 15
Athentic Brewing Co.
7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday.
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.
Georgia Theatre
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $16. www.georgiatheatre.com
BAYKER BLANKENSHIP Young country artist who hit the ground running with his first hit, “Maxed Out.”
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. $50. pac.uga.edu
ALFREDO RODRIGUEZ TRIO
Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, this Grammy Award-nominated jazz pianist and composer embodies the collective sound of his new home in Miami: Latin pop, timba, salsa, bachata, tango, reggaeton and bolero.
Thursday 16
ACE/FRANCISCO Gallery
Closing Reception with SC Poet Laureate Drew Lanham. 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/acefranciscogallery
T. HARDY MORRIS Singersongwriter and guitarist plays twangy, reflective folk-rock. Ciné
8 p.m. $20. www.vicchesnuttaward. com
ATHENS SONGWRITERS’
FORUM The Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards and Athens Resonates co-present an evening of interviews and live performances by Andy LeMaster, Avery Draut (Night Palace) and Elijah Johnston. Hosted by Drew Vandenberg.
40 Watt Club
7 p.m. (doors). $20 (adv.), $25. www.40watt.com
PENELOPE ROAD Five-piece band that boldly embraces the self-awarded label of “stanky funky junk.”
Flicker Theatre & Bar
8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
EXIT ROW Athens-based bedroom pop with songs about the past haunting the present.
KARMA KAT Local band with sounds of rock, pop and funky jazz. They’ll rock your whiskers off!
JANUARY Indie singer-songwriter with thoughtful lyrics whose melodies echo the big hits of the late ’90s and early 2000s.
Georgia Theatre
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $55–60. www.georgiatheatre.com
UMPHREY’S MCGEE Six-piece jam band formed in the early 2000s in South Bend, IN. Hendershot’s 7 p.m. (sign-ups), 8 p.m. (show). FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com
JAZZ JAM Seth Hendershot and the house band Unstarched host an open jazz jam. Bring an instrument or your voice.
LEVI RANSOM Atlanta-based singer-songwriter with a love for pop music.
The Foundry
Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $25. bit.ly/ TattooYouJan17
TATTOO YOU The Rolling Stones tribute band.
Hendershot’s
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.hendershotsathens.com
PERRENGUE Ensemble recreating the exhilarating sounds of a summer night party in Brazil through samba, bossa nova and more.
BICHOS VIVOS Local band playing forró, an accordion, zabumba and triangle-driven genre of party music from Brazil.
and Phish.
ORGANICALLY PROGRAMMED
Electronic space-themed act utilizing primitive drum machines and synthesizers to create disco-pop, jazz and easy listening inspired compositions.
Bolo Bolo
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10–15 suggested donation. www. instagram.com/bolo.bolo.ath
CAL FOLGER DAY Alternative folk songwriter from Baltimore.
HEMLOCK Swamp-raised phone-fi alt-folk project from Chicago.
SHANE PARISH Master guitarist and fearless explorer of rhythm and timbre.
PATRICK MATISTIC Ashevillebased songwriter.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
Attaboy Presents. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
BURLY IVEY Psych art rock band with loungy space sounds and midnight choirs featuring Jim Willingham, Bryan Poole, Dain Marx and Ryan Bousquet.
LEMONMNM Bubblegum pop band from East Point.
THE SHUT-UPS Indie-pop outfit that describes itself as a “bottom 40” band, hit-worthy, but (for some unfathomable reason) hitless.
The Foundry
Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (w/ UGA ID), $12 (adv.), $15. bit.ly/ AtlantaViceJan18
ATLANTA VICE This live ’80s
Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. www.facebook.com/Nowhere BarAthens
VICIOUS DEVIL New project from Curtiss Pernice, Ballard Lesemann and Larry Tenner. First show!
TRYCOH Brawny rock and roll capable of veering into regions of desolation.
VFW Post 3910
7–11 p.m. Donations accepted. terryj6344@yahoo.com
KARAOKE AT THE VFW Enjoy singing and dancing. All levels welcome. Every Thursday.
Friday 17
40 Watt Club
7 p.m. (doors). $20 (adv.), $25. www.40watt.com
THE WHIGS Nashville-based rock trio led by Parker Gispert and originally from Athens.
T. HARDY MORRIS Singersongwriter and guitarist plays twangy, reflective folk-rock. BUFFALO HAWK Crazy Horseinspired psychedelic Americana. Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com
Nowhere Bar
9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens
DIREWOOF Macon-based tribute act celebrating The Grateful Dead. The Root
8:30–11:30 p.m. FREE! www.theroot athens.com
PRINCESS & ROYAL BLUE
Motown, soul, blues and smooth R&B.
VFW Post 2872
8 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ vfwpost2872
COUNTRY RIVER BAND Classic western and honky-tonk style country band.
Saturday 18
40 Watt Club
8 p.m. (doors). $10 (adv.), $12. www.40watt.com
TRVY & THE ENEMY Live hip-hop band that fearlessly breaks barriers in the realm of modern rap music, blending elements of trap with psychedelic rock.
ALIEN FUNK ACADEMY Athensbased electronic duo specializing in glitchy digital mayhem influenced by Vulfpeck, Umphree’s McGee
Ciné
9 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com
ESTIMATED PRINCIPLES Alternative rock from Augusta. MOON MEDALLION Punk, shoegaze, surf, post-hardcore and psychedelia from Texas.
INTENSION Alternative rock from Monroe inspired by bands like Smashing Pumpkins, Deftones and Tool.
ANDOVIA Hard alternative rock from Atlanta.
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.
First Christian Church of Athens
6 p.m. music.uga.edu
UGA CHORAL PROJECT “Two Streams” is a cantana in 14 movements for choir and string orchestra that incorporates elements of Chant, Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic and contemporary styles.
mance spotlighting Naked Truth, his first-ever solo acoustic album steeped in folk blues traditions.
Memorial Park AFMDS Contra Dance. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7 p.m. (dance). FREE! (17 & under), $10–12. www. athensfolk.org
GRIDDLE LICKERS Live music for a contra dance hosted by Athens Folk Music and Dance Society. No. 3 Railroad Street 5:30 p.m. (potluck), 6:30 p.m. (show). $10 suggested donation. www.3railroad.org
MARION MONTGOMERY & GLYN DENHAM Well known locally for their steel guitar, harp, and honky tonk blend of soulful Americana blues. THE SMILEYS Rocking blues power couple Dennis and Janet Smilie of Janet & the New Dogs. Nowhere Bar
9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens
GREG HESTER BAND Soulful singer-songwriter from Augusta.
Monday 20
Hot Corner
2–6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ athmlkparade
ATHENS MLK JR. PARADE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL In addition to the annual parade through downtown (3 p.m., Clayton St.), the festival includes local bands, dance groups, community organizations, family-friendly activities and food vendors.
Tuesday 21
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. Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
rewind experience features hits by Prince, Blondie, The Police, Tears for Fears and more.
Georgia Theatre
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $25–30. www.georgiatheatre.com
BIT BRIGADE Local supergroup plays the soundtrack to vintage video games while their gamer speedruns the game live on stage. Tonight’s set includes Super Mario World and F-Zero.
REAL WOW Scattered and dissonant indie math rock from Athens.
Hendershot’s Coffee
8 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.
com
LIBBALOOPS AND MATT HOUSE
The musical comedy duo presents an evening of absurdity and silliness with a fun mix of original bits, bops and improvisation inspired by the audience.
Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture
Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 8 p.m. $20–30. www.marigoldauditorium.
com
RICK FOWLER ACOUSTIC BAND
Original, guitar-driven local bluesrock group.
TINSLEY ELLIS Guitarist and songwriter gives a solo perfor-
KENOSHA KID Instrumental adventure-jazz group centered around the compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Luca Lombardi, Seth Hendershot and guests. Normal Bar
8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday. Ramsey Hall 5:30 p.m. music.uga.edu
UGA CHORAL PROJECT “Two Streams” is a cantana in 14 movements for choir and string orchestra that incorporates elements of Chant, Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic and contemporary styles.
7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. pac. uga.edu
MOSTLY ROMANTIC: BRAHMS, RACHMANINOFF, AND PIAZZOLLA Music from the Romantic stylistic movement performed by Levon Ambartsumian on violin, Shakhida Azimkhodjaeva on viola, James Kim on cello and Evgeny Rivkin on piano.
Down the Line
1/23 Tyler Ramsey (Rialto Club) 1/23 Donny Benét (Georgia Theatre) 1/23 Caroline Halleck (Ramsey Hall) f
Umphrey’s McGee will play at the Georgia Theatre on Thursday, Jan. 16. CGS PHOTOGRAPHY
event calendar
Tuesday 14
CLASSES: Tech Talk for Beginners (Howard Park & Community Center) Master the basics of using your Android cell phone. Ages 50 & up. Register online. 9 a.m. www.accgov ga.myrec.com
CLASSES: Internet 101: Privacy and Security (ACC Library) Learn how to protect your data, recognize security risks and get tips on how to manage your personal information. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person conversation. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
FILM: Athentic Movie Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the Disney sports film Cool Runnings 6:30 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: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: Not Rocket Science Trivia (Trappeze Pub) Test your trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. www.notrocketsciencetrivia.com
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
KIDSTUFF: Toddler Tuesday: Action Art (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy art and storytime in the galleries, then complete an art activity. Ages 18 months to 3 years. RSVP by email. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu
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
MEETINGS: Athens Fibercraft Guild (Lyndon House Arts Center) Laura Gutzwiller, who creates wool paintings using needle felting, will present. 12:30–2:30 p.m. FREE! www.athensfiber.org
MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly
own. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 15
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: iPhone/iPad Basics (ACC Library) Learn the basics of navigating your device. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
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: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1968 Japanese drama The Million Dollar Pursuit. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Not Rocket Science Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your trivia knowledge with host Michael. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www. notrocketsciencetrivia.com
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: Cocoa and Crafts (Memorial Park) Make crafts, sip hot cocoa and play in the “snow.” Ages 6 & under. 10:30 a.m. $3 (ACC residents), $5 (nonresidents). www.accgovga.myrec. com
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Mania (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Avid Writers’ Collective (Avid Bookshop) Members critique each others’ presubmitted writing of all forms. 6:15
Thursday 16
ART: Opening Reception (Lyndon House Arts Center) View the new exhibitions “Distillation” by Patti Roberts-Pizzuto and Johntimothy Pizzuto, “Twist” by Carol John and “fast tracks, ski masks, plaid slacks” by Tim Root. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/lyndon house
ART: Open Studio (Chase Park Warehouse, Unit 4, Suite #10) Artist Christina Habibi’s work will be on view with guest artist Corwin Weik. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.habibi art.com
ART: Closing Reception (ACE/ FRANCISCO Gallery) Exhibitions “Murmur Trestle” and “Grit Por-
for being the worst in the League. 8 p.m. $10–15. www.athenscomedy. com
EVENTS: AADM Social Justice Awards & Black Gala (Hotel Indigo) Celebrating champions of justice, equality and community impact in Athens and throughout the state of Georgia. 6–9 p.m. $50–100. www.facebook.com/ AADMovementjusticecenter
FILM: History Film Series (101 LeConte Hall) Screening of the film Memories of Underdevelopment with an introduction by Dr. Reinaldo Roman. 7 p.m. FREE! history.uga. edu
GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this weekly game of chance. Thursdays, 6 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.facebook.com/vfw2872
traits” on view with a poetry reading by SC Poet Laureate Drew Lanham and live music. 6 p.m. FREE! www. thrasherphoto.com
CLASSES: Yoga in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy a yoga class in the art galleries led by instructors from Five Points Yoga. Open to all skill levels. First come, first served. 6 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
COMEDY: The Fantasy Flop (Onward Reserve) The losers of Fantasy Football Leagues have to perform standup as a punishment
GAMES: Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) Join the volunteer led role-playing adventure where you can fight dragons, join an army, go on a quest in distant lands and more. 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
GAMES: “The Office” Trivia (Normaltown Brewing) Test your knowledge of the popular TV show.
6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ normaltownbrewingco
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Foundry) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens
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: 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: Read to Rover (Bogart Library) Drop in to read a story to Maisy Jane and her furry friends. Ages 4 & up. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen Dungeons & Dragons (ACC Library) Create a level 5 character or show up early to make one before joining in the adventure. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
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
Friday 17
ART: Opening Reception (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) Athens-born painter and muralist Broderick Flanigan’s exhibition “Family Val-hues” will be on view. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.uuathensga. org
CLASSES: Movement-Supported Self Reflection (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Continuing Education Ethics credits training on how mindful movement can support ethical practice for social workers and other care providers. 8 a.m. $190. www. revolutiontherapyandyoga.com
CLASSES: Zumba After Dark (work. shop) Enjoy high-energy dance fitness with friends for the new year. 9 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ studiod3athens
COMEDY: “Moonshiner” Killer Beaz (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) The stand-up comedian and actor brings his tour Best Buzz in Town to Winterville. 7 p.m. $25–55. www.killerbeaz.com
COMEDY: Knock Knock, Who Cares (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Group of improv performers who often perform longer narrative stories. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com
EVENTS: One Night Stand (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) A monthly edu-taiment event with micro talks about anything sexuality related with snacks and drinks. 18 & up. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Donations encouraged. www.revolutiontherapyand yoga.com
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: Fantastic Friday (Bishop Park) An instructor supervises while a parent/caregiver leads their little ones through obstacle courses. Ages 1–4 years. Register online. 10–11:30 a.m. $7.50 (ACC residents), $11.25 (non-ACC residents). www.accgovga.myrec.com
KIDSTUFF: Meet & Play (Bogart Library) Drop in for facilitated open play with age-appropriate toys. Best for ages 6 & under. Fridays, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
Saturday 18
ART: Juried Exhibition Application Clinic (Lyndon House Arts Center) Drop in for assistance photographing your work or filling out the online application. 12–3 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse
ART: Cocktails & Canvas (Oak House Distillery) View works by local artists Megan Bennett, Sonja Delaplane and Lisa Freeman, meet the artists and enjoy curated cocktails for purchase. 2–6 p.m. www. oakhousedistillery.com
ART: Reception & Reunion (Lamar Dodd School of Art) UGA Cortona’s “Mostra” exhibition will be on view with a reunion for alumni, students and staff. 3–5 p.m. FREE! art.uga. edu
CLASSES: Create Your Death File Workshop (Getting Real Counseling Center) Learn how to convey your end-of-life wishes through an organized death file with all materi-
The Tina Turner Musical tells the story of the music legend, starting with her humble beginnings in Nutbush, TN, at The Classic Center on Jan. 21.
als provided and access to an End of Life Doula to answer questions. Registration required. 11 a.m. $75. https://forms.gle/XDodTGWvdLqm
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COMEDY: Musical Comedy (Hendershot’s Coffee) Join Libbaloops and Matt House for an evening of absurdity and silliness with original bits, bops and improvisation inspired by the audience. 8 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com
EVENTS: 5K Trail Fun Run (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join park rangers on a moderate trail route. 12 p.m. $5 (parking). www.gastate parks.org/WatsonMillBridge
EVENTS: 46th Annual MLK Awards Banquet (Georgia Center for Continuing Education) The banquet honors individuals and organizations that have made contributions to human relations and also awards scholarships to high school seniors. 5 p.m. www.humanrelationscouncil. org/mlk-awards-banquet
EVENTS: AFMDS Contra Dance (Memorial Park Administration Building) This community dance features caller Charlotte Crittenden and live music by the Griddle Lickers. No partner required. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7 p.m. (dance). $12 (adults), $10 (students w/ ID), 17 & under FREE! www.athensfolk.org
FILM: The [M]Factor (Ciné) Screening of the documentary addressing the health crisis faced by millions of women going through menopause with a panel discussion, music, gift bags and more. 1:30–6:30 p.m. $30. MFactorVIPevent. eventbrite.com
GAMES: Pathfinder Society RPG (Tyche’s Games) Come and adventure with the Pathfinder Society. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
MEETINGS: Atheist Society of Athens (ACC Library) Non-prophet discussions with friends and neighbors. Third Saturdays, 4 p.m. FREE! www.atheistsocietyathens.org
SPORTS: 2025 Stiletto Stampede 5K (Sandy Creek Nature Center) The Ashton Hope Keegan Foundation hosts their 3rd annual race to fund scholarships for women in the Athens area. 10 a.m. $25. www. ashtonhopekeeganfoundation.org
Sunday 19
ART: Sunday Afternoon Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) This drop-in public tour features highlights of the permanent collection. 3 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
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: Ecumenical Service
(First AME Church) This service is a formal observance of the life and goals of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 4 p.m. FREE! www. humanrelationscouncil.org
FILM: The [M]Factor (Ciné) Screening of the documentary addressing the health crisis faced by millions of women going through menopause. 1 p.m. FREE! Find The Hormone Midwife on Facebook
FILM: 119.MP4 (Ciné) Screening of Gonzoriffic’s stand-up horror feature film, with a Q&A with filmmakers Andrew Shearer and Florence Ugh. 3 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ gonzoriffic
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
Monday 20
COMEDY: Funny Femmes (Gyro Wrap) An all-women showcase featuring seven comedians from Athens and Atlanta. The Upstairs Bar and Comedy Club. 8 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/theup_stairs bar
EVENTS: ACC Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service (Lay Park) More than 30 different community organizations, schools and churches will host volunteer service projects. Online registration closes Jan. 17, limited walk-up registration available. 8:30–9:30 a.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/mlkday
EVENTS: Athens MLK Day Parade and Music Festival (Downtown Athens) The Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement and the United Group of Artists Music Association host the ninth annual parade. Vendors and participants can still register. 2–6 p.m. FREE! www.athmlkparade.com
FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) An ex-convict is granted superpowers from his dead uncle and must defeat the prince of darkness in the Filipino horror-fantasy The Killing of Satan. 8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/BadMovieNight
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: Trivia with Marissa (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Test your trivia knowledge with host Marissa. 8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
KIDSTUFF: Monday Funday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for songs, fingerplays, storytelling and STEAM activities. Ages 3–7 years. Registration suggested. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (1430 N Chase St) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.classiccityrotary. org
SPORTS: UGA Ice Dawgs vs University of Tennessee (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 1 p.m. www. classiccenter.com
Tuesday 21
CLASSES: Casa de Amistad ESL Class (ACC Library) Strengthen your reading, writing, speaking and listening skills for adults of all nationalities. Registration required. 11:30 a.m. FREE! athensamistad@ gmail.com
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person conversation. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: Not Rocket Science Trivia (Trappeze Pub) Test your trivia
knowledge. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. www.notrocketsciencetrivia.com
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 Wild Robot by Peter Brown with quizzes, trivia, snacks and more. Ages 8–12. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Check the brewery’s social media for this month’s book, then discuss it with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.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
THEATER: The Tina Turner Musical (The Classic Center) This musical tells the triumphant story of the Queen of Rock and Roll set to the soundtrack of her beloved hits. 7:30 p.m. $25–95. www.classiccenter. com
Wednesday 22
ART: Student Spotlight Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) Education intern Nikolett Booker will give a talk about her work with the permanent collection and 5th-grade tours. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. org
CLASSES: Adobe Illustrator for Beginners (ACC Library) Learn the basics of creating vector art. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Open House & My Georgia Promise Scholarship Info Session (Athens Academy) Parents of prospective students for the 2025-2026 school year are invited. Registration required. Jan. 22 & Feb. 19, 8:30 a.m. www. athensacademy.org
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 2012 horror comedy film Don’t Let the Riverbeast Get You. 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: Not Rocket Science Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your trivia knowledge with host Michael. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www. notrocketsciencetrivia.com
KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Mania (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
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 f
John McDonald and Mark Maxwell’s Blues PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com music
GODSPEED: Longtime Athens music scene contributor, enthusiast and friend Chris Purcell died Sunday, Jan. 5 in Virginia. Before he moved to Athens in the early 1990s, Chris was a co-owner of the legendary Asheville, NC venue the Squashpile, then immediately upon arriving in Athens, one of the collaborators behind Self Rising Records. The two compilations of local bands the label released, Fuel and ReFuel, still stand tall as historical references to the then-burgeoning heavy alternative rock scene here in Athens. He was a master craftsman, too, and enjoyed creating old-fashioned handmade wooden toys, in addition to more practical projects, such as the patio behind what was then The Caledonia. He was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2018 at age 51. There is no way to encapsulate Chris’ life in this short passage, so, please, when you hear his name, ask about him. If you knew him, talk about him. And while you do that, hug each other and be thankful for the time we have together.
AIN’T NO CURE FOR THE WINTERTIME BLUES: Just before this column entered its long winter’s nap last year, blues artist John McDonald released his newest album, Feeling Blues Like its immediate predecessor, 2023’s Touched by the Blues, this new album is populated by multiple genre classics and well-known compositions. While he’s worked with engineer and musician Mark Maxwell for a long time, this new album is credited to both of them. Also of note are the other musicians on this album, including Mindy Towe on saxophone and clarinet and Mason Towe on drums—each of Check The Signs—as well as Jason Fuller on piano, Glyn Denham on harmonica, and Gabrielle Campbell, Janis Maxwell and Jada Mose on backup vocals. The album runs 11 tracks, and while it won’t blow your speakers out or particularly blow your mind, it’s a fully competent collection of enjoyable songs played by well-seasoned and knowledgeable musicians. Find it at johnmcdonald.bandcamp.com.
streaming services when it’s released on Jan. 19.
PACK A LUNCH: Widespread Panic has announced a solid handful of dates that should keep fans satiated through the spring. Feb. 14–16 it’ll be in Atlantic City, NJ playing Hard Rock Live @ Etess Arena; Mar. 21–23 in St. Augustine, FL playing the St. Augustine Arena; and Apr. 24–26 the band will be in Nashville for three nights at the Ascend Amphitheater. Tickets for these are on sale now, and it’d be shocking if they didn’t sell out, so get on it. For all other information, including ticket links, please see widespreadpanic.com.
FANGS A LOT: Composer Myles Carlyle (The While) just released his newest single under his project named Seven Fangs. The track is named “Mayor,” and it’s a noisy, kinda crowded indie rock tune with loads of flange on the guitar and a whole bunch of other layers making it thick with distraction. My favorite part is right around the 1:40 mark, where it gets a little chunky. Earlier last year he released the single “Anthem Of The Anxious,” which is plodding and psychedelic in a similar vein to the Spacemen 3. Two songs isn’t a whole lot to go on, but if these are the tracks clearing his path, then I’m excited to see where they lead. Find both on Spotify.
GETTING THE BAND BACK TOGETHER: The expanding universe of a band known as Slightly Famous Somebodies have packed a new single, a cover of Dashboard Saviors’ 1993 song “.45,” full of Athens bona fides. It features the Saviors’ Mike Gibson on guitar, Sunny Ortiz (Widespread Panic) on percussion and Jay Gonzalez (Drive-By Truckers) on Hammond organ. Vocals on this Todd McBride-composed song are handled by Adam McIntyre of Atlanta band the Pinx, who is also a guitarist on this, as well as Jonathan Spencer, Laura Wiggins and Mekenzie Zimmerman. The song itself is a whopping 10-minute-long jam that pays nice homage to the original. Find it on all
COMMUNITY SPIRIT:
There’s something sinister and subversive about the music of nothingif anything. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I know it’s there. After a string of releases stretching back to last July, these metal/hardcore/ artcore/post-punk folks have released the full-length A Monument To Sacrifice. It’s a meaty, 11-song album with loads of the above descriptors, but also a dash of digital hardcore and a slight amount of chamber goth. If this sounds like a lot, and you just need a starting place, then go with “suicide. bait,” which was previously released as a single. It’s a solid entry point from which to explore. Find all this over at nothingifanything.bandcamp.com.
OH, COME ALL YE FAITHFUL: Redeemer Presbyterian Church has released its 2024 Lessons + Carols live concert, which took place late last year. While running a mere seven songs, these performances are clean and crisp, and the recording quality and musicianship are simply wonderful. This collection, musically speaking, will appeal to those who enjoy a hefty side of traditional folk music with their celebrations. It’s just a joy to hear. Also, Redeemer has released these performances since 2012, so you can go back and grab a whole bunch of ’em if you’re interested. Find them all over at redeemerathens.bandcamp.com. f
Mark Maxwell and John McDonald
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 Mar. 15, June 15, Sept. 15 and Dec. 15. Apply online. www. athensarts.org/support
ART MART CALL FOR ARTISTS
AND VENDORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Applications are now open for fine artists and craftspeople to participate in the indoor 2025 Art Market. All mediums welcome. Free to apply. $60 (vendor fee). Deadline Jan. 15. Event held May 17, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.lyndon houseartsfoundation.com
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM
(Lyndon House Arts Center) The AIR Program provides participants with a semi-private workspace, access to the center’s seven open studios and a $250 stipend. Rising professional and studio-based artists are invited to apply. Artists will be expected to present their work in a workshop or artist talk and will be invited to take part in a group exhibition with other AIR Program alumni. Applications are reviewed Apr. 20 for residencies beginning July 1 and Sept. 20 for residencies beginning Jan. 1. www.accgov. com/lyndonhouse
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJ-
ECT 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 ART (Amici at The Falls)
Amici is seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email an introduction and a few examples of work. careywelsh20@gmail.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. Artists living in Athens or surrounding counties may submit up to three entries. Submissions accepted through Jan. 24, 11:59 p.m. Application clinic held Jan. 18, 12–3 p.m. Exhibition on view Mar. 13–May 10. $35/entry fee. accgov.com/lyndonhouse FLIGHT OF THE FIREFLIES CALL FOR ART (Dudley Park) The ACC Leisure Services Arts Division is seeking proposals from four artists or artist teams for temporary light sculptures to display during the Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade. Deadline Jan. 27, 5 p.m. $500 all-inclusive budget. Event held Mar. 8. www.accgov. com/10862/Call-for-Art-Flight-ofthe-Fireflies
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
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. • “Grit Portraits: Paintings by Tobiah Cole” includes portraits of some of the artist’s friends from his many years at The Grit. Closing Reception and Special Event with MacArthur Genius grant winner, birder and SC Poet Laureate Drew Lanham on Jan. 16, 6 p.m.
AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) Paintings by Marissa Mustard. Through Feb. 13.
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.) Brooklyn-based artist Matt Keegan’s sculptures, collage and paintings in “Realia” are based on double-sided image-based flash cards his mother made to teach English. Through Mar. 22.
ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) Wendy DesChene and Jeff Schmuki operate under the guise of “PlantBot Genetics,” a parody of Big Agricultural Firms who skillfully manipulate current food production and distribution systems. Artist Talk and Closing Reception Feb. 9, 3 p.m. UGA Digital Printmaking Student Wheat Paste Mural Collaboration Feb. 10–17.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) R.B. Pruett’s solo exhibition includes visceral “cannibalized” paintings that involve a process of cutting up and collaging fragments of other paintings. Reception Feb. 6, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view through Feb. 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,
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
ANGEL STREET (GASLIGHT)
(Elberton Arts Center) Encore Productions hosts auditions seeking two adult men and three adult women. Auditions held Feb. 17–18, 6–8 p.m. Performances held May 2–4, 9–11. 706-213-3109, tking@ cityofelberton.net
Classes
A COURSE OF LOVE (Unity Athens Church) Learn a positive path for spiritual living based on A Course in Miracles. Wednesdays, 10–11:30 a.m. FREE! www.unity athens.com
ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18
and up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. FREE! marjoriemiller@gmail.com
ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop) The shop offers a range of fine art classes and workshops for adults, private classes and parties, summer camps, and art clubs for youth. Register online. www.kaartist.com
BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of blacksmithing classes include “Forge a Medieval Flail” (Jan. 17), “Beginner Blacksmithing: Forge a Bottle Opener” (Jan. 25), “First Time at the Forge: Three Hook Rack” (Feb. 8), “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/out reach/scholarships
CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS
(Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-person classes. Topics include “Homebuyer Education” (Jan. 25 or Feb. 22, 9:30 a.m.), “Building Your Financial Future” (Jan. 27, 5:30 p.m.), “Credit Reports & Scores” (Feb. 10, 5:30 p.m.) and “Using Credit Cards” (Feb. 24, 5:30 p.m.). Visit website for full list. www.athenslandtrust.org/classes-events
DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and tap. Lunch time classes are available for adults including “Pilates & Dance Conditioning” on Wednesdays at noon. www.accgov.com/myrec
CUBAN SALSA CLASSES (UGA Dance Building) TIMBAthens offers multiple classes for different skill
“Linnentown Then and Now: The Johnsons” includes portraits by Caroline Ford Coleman.
CREATURE COMFORTS BREWING CO. (271 W. Hancock Ave.) An exploration of paradox through imperial art, Maximos Salzman’s “Domicile Imperium” presents nine prints and drawings influenced by imagery found in historical empires as well as fictional empires of pop culture. Closing Reception Jan. 31, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view through Feb. 2.
DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) “Mostra: UGA Cortona 2024” showcases artworks made by students and faculty of all programs held at the Office of Global Engagement International Center in Cortona, Italy. Closing Reception in room S151 on Jan. 18, 3 p.m. • “Bookmarked: One Hundred Images” investigates numerous styles of visual languages and translates them into book form. Through Feb. 28.
EARTH FARE (1689 S. Lumpkin St.) Susan Pelham’s collages are inspired by Magic Realism, Surrealism, nursery rhymes, fables and more.
FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Colorful and unusual paintings by Mark Dalling. Through January.
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 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. • “The Awe of Ordinary Labors: 20th-Century Paintings from Ukraine” exemplifies socialist realism, a style of art promoted by the government of the Soviet Union. On view Jan. 18–June 1.
GLASSCUBE@INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Zane Cochran presents “Aurora,” a sculptural interpretation of the aurora borealis using 3D geometric figures and lights.
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
“Domicile Imperium,” a collection of drawings and prints by Maximos Salzman, is currently on view at Creature Comforts Brewing Co. through Feb. 2. A closing reception will be held Jan. 31, 6–8 p.m.
levels. Follows UGA closures. Sundays, 3 p.m. (Level 1) and 4 p.m (Level 2). $10 drop-in. timbathens@gmail.com, www. timbathens.com
CUBAN SALSA LESSONS (El Carretonero) SALSAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced) and 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10 drop-in. www.SALS AthensDancing@gmail.com
PÉTANQUE CLUB OF ATHENS (5 Alumni Dr.) Learn to play Pétanque. RSVP for a free Wednesday introduction. athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
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
Help Out
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 MLK DAY OF SERVICE (Athens, GA) Celebrate Martin Luther King
and students. Through Jan. 18. • 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. • “fast tracks, ski masks, plaid slacks” by Tim Root includes playful wooden constructions drawn from a comic book aesthetic and DIY ethos. Currently on view through Feb. 8. • “Twist” features paintings by Carol John with pop color and vibrating repetitions of dots, lines and shapes. Opening Reception Jan. 16, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Studio Visit Feb. 22. • “Distillations” features drawings on paper and wall-bound constructions by Johntimothy Pizzuto and Patti Roberts-Pizzuto. Opening Reception Jan. 16, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Studio Visit Mar. 1, 1–4 p.m.
OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) “Winter Respite” features photographs by Glenn Galau. Through Feb. 28. PORCELAIN AND DECORATIVE ARTS MUSEUM (2450 S. Milledge Ave.)
Two new collections celebrating the connection between art and nature include a complete Jasperware tea set from Wedgewood in England and a series of hand-carved coconut vessels.
TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) “Ode to a Watering Hole” features new portraits by Noah James Saunders made from copper wire preserved between sheets of fused glass. Artist Reception Jan. 16, 6–9 p.m.
UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Bulldog Olympians” celebrates over 200 UGA athletes who have competed for Team USA or their home countries through photographs and artifacts. Through January. • “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.) “Family Val-hues” by Broderick Flanigan focuses on the faces of the Athens-born painter and muralist’s family members. Opening Reception Jan. 17, 5–7 p.m. Currently on view through March.
Jr. Day by volunteering on Jan. 20. Over 30 different community organizations, cemeteries, schools and government agencies will host service projects. Registration deadline Jan. 17. www.accgov.com/mlkday
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 VOLUNTEERS (Taylor-Grady House) Seeking volunteers to work as greeters during open hours for “Warrior Women: An Exhibition of Ceramic Sculptures” by Alice Woodruff. Thursdays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Jan. 24–Feb. 21. Email for volunteer sign-up form. director@taylorgrady.com
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
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
BRELLA ACTIVITIES (’Brella Studio)
After-school art lessons for ages 6–11 include drawing and mixed media activities and are held Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Family Playgroups are for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Check website for descriptions and meeting times. www.brellastudio.com/events
CREATIVE 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.tree housekidandcraft.com
GROUPS AT REBLOSSOM
(ReBlossom) A variety of classes, playgroups and support groups are offered for parents and young children. Topics include birth and breastfeeding, prenatal and parent-baby yoga, instrument play, maternal mental health and more. Check website for a schedule. www. reblossomathens.com
LIBRARY STORYTIMES (ACC Library) Storytime for preschool aged children and their caregivers is offered every Tuesday and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. www.athens library.org
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Taylor-Grady House) Seeking volunteers to work as greeters during open hours for “Warrior Women: An
Exhibition of Ceramic Sculptures” by Alice Woodruff. Thursdays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Jan. 24–Feb. 21. Email for volunteer sign-up form. director@taylorgrady.com
Support Groups
ACA ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS AND DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) This support group meets weekly. Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. annetteanelson@gmail.com
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
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (Multiple Locations) Do you worry about the way you eat? OA may have the answer for you. Meetings held Tuesdays, 12 p.m. at 24th Street, Inc. and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Text 678-736-3697 about Tuesdays or 706-224-4919 about Saturdays. www.oa.org
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP (First Baptist Church) This group is to encourage, support and share information with fellow sojourners who manage the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders. Second Friday of the month, 1 p.m. gpnoblet@ bellsouth.net
PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT (Chase Park Warehouses) A peerled support group of people who understand the depth of love and grief for animal companions. Jan. 22, 6:30 p.m. Donations accepted. shannonfoxwaters@gmail.com, vibrantbeing.net/grief-support 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
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
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
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
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
ATHFEST MUSICIAN APPLICA-
TIONS (Downtown Athens) The 2025 AthFest Music & Arts Festival, held June 20–22, is seeking applications from musicians to perform. Fill out the online form. Deadline Mar. 7. www.athfest.com/athfestmusician-applications
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.athensgafilm office.com
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
SPRING PROGRAM REGISTRATION (Athens, GA) The Leisure Services Department offers a diverse selection of activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events for both adults and children. Registration begins Feb 1, 9 a.m. (residents) or Feb. 3, 12 p.m. (non-residents). www.accgov.com/myrec
VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA)
Brad Staples (of the Athens GA Live Music crew) is seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive on his YouTube channel, vhsordie (@ vhsordie3030). Live music recordings will be archived to the Athens GA Live Music channel courtesy of Gregory Frederick. 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, vhsordie.com f
119.MP4
ATHENS-BASED FEATURE FILM MIXING COMEDY AND HORROR
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
“Afound footage horror stand-up comedy special” is the tagline for the new feature film 119.MP4 produced by Gonzoriffic , Athens’ only underground filmmaking collective that leans into experimental and feminist works. It debuts with a free screening at Ciné on Sunday, Jan. 19, followed by a Q&A with Gonzoriffic founder and producer Andrew Shearer and director, writer and actor Florence Ugh.
Largely improvised by Ugh, the events of the film center around the idea of filming inside a haunted hotel room—specifically the real-life haunted room 119 at the Hotel
It’s important to clarify that this is not comedy horror, but stand-up comedy that turns into a horror movie.
“But are they really horrific?” Ugh asks of the events that unravel. “Because I start to like, you know, you’ll see at the end I go a little off the rails. And that was really cathartic for me at the point in time when I was dealing with something personal.”
Although Gonzoriffic has produced a few feature-length films, Ugh had previously only starred in short films. Fully embracing letting improv lead the way, Ugh says the experience was a lot of fun.
Abacus, formerly Graduate Athens, on Dougherty Street downtown. Shearer and Ugh had learned the details of this haunting from Tracy Adkins’ Ghosts of Athens book about local history. They scheduled a Zoom meeting with Adkins for background information and to go over the plan for the film to ensure they were going about it respectfully before shooting.
“We came there to check in, and they don’t let you pick the room. So I was like, ‘Oh no, this is about to suck,’ right? And I said, ‘Well, could we get room 119?’ And the lady looked at me like, that one’s definitely available,” says Shearer.
As a fan of history and the paranormal, Ugh is no stranger to exploring and staying at supposedly haunted locations. It’s a space she finds comfort in, and along with being accompanied by her friend Shearer, that provided a cathartic and therapeutic experience to let loose through improv. Neither of them knew exactly what was going to happen or what the end result would look like.
Among Ugh’s many creative talents, she’s a comedian, which she uses as the foundation of her character in 119.MP4
The premise of the found- footage film is that Ugh checks into a hotel overnight to work on her stand-up comedy, and she’s recording the process of practicing and riffing on her jokes to look back on later. She gets on Instagram Live to share her process, and that’s when she finds out the history of the room from one of her followers.
The comedy aspect of the film comes to an abrupt halt as the haunting and eventual possession amps up.
“There’s a lot of expectations of what women should look like on screen. What they should wear, what is acceptable comedy, what is funny, what is appropriate. It’s not this X-rated thing. It’s just not exactly what you would think of; it’s not a glamour shot,” says Ugh. “I feel extremely vulnerable, but I also feel very safe with the people that are coming that love me. There’s a safety in being vulnerable that I just want to continue to do with films.”
“I have a 100% confidence in Florence because I was a fan before I even really met her. I knew what she was capable of doing, and I was just like, what will she do if it’s just all her? So that’s why when you tell people you got a feature film, it’s only one camera shot and only one person, you think that’s not a feature. I don’t know what that is, but that’s not it,” says Shearer. “But that’s what a stand-up comedy special is: You’re watching one person in one space. I knew that she could confidently do that.” Ugh and Shearer ask that the audience leave their expectations and preconceived notions of what a feature film is outside the theater for this wacky, gory, out-of- the-box experience. Ugh says that everything lined up just right for a nicely packaged premiere with the film 119.MP4 shot in room 119 to debut Jan. 19 (1/19). f
WHO: 119 MP4 Film Screening
WHEN: Sunday, Jan . 19, 3 p .m . WHERE: Ciné HOW MUCH: FREE!
classifieds
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
Newly Built Home for Rent. This 3BR/2.5BA craftsman home features an open layout, modern kitchen, master suite, covered porch, and is small dog- friendly. Going for $2,150/mon. Call 706-227-1326 to learn more.
ROOMS FOR RENT
Bogart area. Furnished. Incl. private bath, all utils., internet, W/D. $600 per month plus deposit. Call 678-227-2704.
FOR SALE
MISCELLANEOUS
Business Water Solutions offers the cleanest drinking water available through innovative bottle- less water coolers and ice machines. 706- 248- 6761 or business watersolutions.com to set up a consultation.
MUSIC 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.athensschoolof music.com. 706-543-5800
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
SERVICES
HOME AND GARDEN
Black Pearl Landscaping keeps yards thriving year round! Its prime time for winter pruning, mulching, and clearing overgrowth. Free consultations call/text 510705-2181.
Need newspapers for your garden? We have plenty here at Flagpole! 706-549-0301
Get ready for spring! WomanRun Gardening Services: We offer garden clean- up/ maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706-395-5321.
Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in low- maintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Call 631-903-4365 or email pkozatch@gmail.com.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Part 107 Licensed Drone Pilot offering 4K Aerial Photography/Videography services. $150+ depending on project. Contact Matt via athensdrone pilot@gmail.com with inquiries. IG: @athensdronepilot
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.
Flagpole ♥s our advertisers.
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.ct scribes.com
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
Call for Artists: Spring Fling Art & Oddities Pop- Up at Farmington Train Depot. Event is March 21- 23 from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Email zigzag hjh@gmail.com for information.
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 706-5433331. project-safe.org
Flagpole ♥s our readers and donors!
Registration is open for the Classic City Mara thon, Athena Half Mara
thon, and the Marathon Relay on Jan. 25, 2025. classiccity marathon.squarespace.com
The Lightroom Athens offers affordable professional studio and equipment rentals for photo, video, podcasting, and more! Right next to Puma Yu’s. thelightroom-ath.com
The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia accepts food donations between 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
