FP250122

Georgia Music Collections

Artifacts at the Akins Ford Arena p. 8

Thursday, January 30 7:30 p.m.

Hodgson Concert Hall UGA PAC

Featuring: Emily Elmore, flute; JT Holdbrooks, bassoon; Thomas LaMon, cello; Mengyuan Li, piano; David Ma, flute; Elena Minko, piano; and Haoying Wu, piano.

$20 - Adults | $3 - UGA student with valid ID

GUEST ARTIST AND UGA ALUM CAROLINE LEIGH HALLECK, saxophone

Thursday, January 23 at 7:30 p.m.

Ramsey Concert Hall, UGA PAC

FACULTY RECITAL: LEAH PARTRIDGE, soprano

Monday, January 27 at 5:30 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 Known worldwide for compelling interpretations of over 40 of opera’s leading ladies.

GUEST ARTIST MEGUMI KANDA, trombone

Tuesday, January 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Ramsey Concert Hall, UGA PAC

Internationally acclaimed principal trombone for Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra since 2002.

Rescheduled from earlier this month:

GUEST ARTIST: CAVATINA DUO

Eugenia Moliner, flute (Spain) Denis Azabagic, guitar (Bosnia)

Wednesday, January 29 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall, UGA

FACULTY ARTIST SERIES JAMES KIM, CELLO

with Anatoly Sheludyakov, piano

Tuesday, February 4 7:30 p.m. in Ramsey Hall

Reception to follow

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 Hillary Brown, Gordon Lamb, 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

(June 20–22) and AthFest Half Marathon & 5K (Oct. 11–12).

Will Eskridge

Res ear c hers at the University of Georgia are c onducting a research study to gain a better understanding of immune cell functions. You can receive $25 by participating in the study

WHAT THE STUDY INVOLVES

• Y ou will first complete an eligibility screening by phone

• If eligible, you will come to the CTRU on the UGA Health Sciences Campus for a half- hour study visit in the morning ( no fasting required).

:

• The study visit involves:

o A blood draw of 50ml (about 3 tablespoons), which may c ause discomfort or bruising

o P r oviding information about y ourself, including age, r ace, and certain medical conditions

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

• You ar e between the ages of 18-6 0 years old

• You weigh at least 110 lbs

• Y ou ar e n ot pregnant

• You ar e generally healthy and do not have rheumatoid ar thr itis , lupus, gout, COPD, HIV or Hepatitis C

The investigator of this study is Dr. B alazs Rada

F O R MORE INFO RMATION, PLEASE EMAIL OR CALL: CTRU@U GA.EDU | 706-713-2 721

Hauls, Shoots and Leaves CHANGES TO LEAF-AND-LIMB, EV CHARGERS AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued, Chris Dowd and Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com

Switching from regularly scheduled leafand-limb pickup to an on-demand service would keep the Athens- Clarke County Solid Waste Department from falling behind after major storms without adding to the budget, officials told ACC commissioners at a work session last week.

Currently Athens is divided into six zones, with leaf-and-limb pickup in each zone once every six weeks. Solid Waste could move to on-demand service with or without the zones, ending the need to drive down each street in the zone looking for piles. The department also wants to allow residents to combine piles and to use vacant lots for community piles. These changes would make pickup more efficient, officials said.

“We have some people that have four or five sticks they put out,” Route Supervisor Nancy Flowers said. “It’s a lot of work for trucks to pick up those four or five sticks. It would be better for us if 10 houses got together.”

Solid Waste Director

Suki Janssen pointed to Indale Street, near Hancock Avenue, where residents already share piles because many houses don’t have front yards. That also happens in the Buena Vista neighborhood where Commissioner Melissa Link lives.

“It’s already happening,” Link said. “My husband and I invite our neighbors to throw stuff on our pile because they have no front yards.”

But Link said she does not support moving away from regularly scheduled pickup. “I like the system as it is,” she said. “I just wonder, do we need more staff? Do we need more trucks? What is it that’s causing the delays and falling behind?”

those people would be charged after the first eight pickups each year, adding that if residents could request pickups, “we won’t have people putting piles out and waiting for weeks.”

If the commission approves on-demand service, Janssen said, she would prefer to keep the zones. “People are acutely aware [of zones and schedules], the heavy users,” she said. “… People are really attuned to what area they’re in.”

The commission is scheduled to vote on the proposal in March. [Blake Aued]

Anti-Nazi March at UGA

Students at the University of Georgia held a “march against Nazis” on Jan. 15 protesting a university employee who has ties to the Aryan Freedom Network, a neoNazi group.

activity, no matter how offensive or repugnant those activities may be.”

Nevertheless, protest attendees often called on Haynie to be fired during the march, chanting, “No hate! No fear! Get George Haynie out of here!”

Graham Fenn, a senior engineering student who spoke at the protest, accused his institution of being “complacent” to the threat that fascism poses to the UGA campus. “The rationale for [allowing Haynie to return to work] cited the nondiscrimination and anti-harassment policies at UGA,” Fenn said. “While many of us benefit from these protections, those in charge of enforcing these policies seem to forget that hate, fearmongering and violence are not ideologies and identities that need protecting, but infections in our society that need to be cured.”

Other speakers at the protest took a different tone. Tom Sheehan, a member of the United Campus Workers of Georgia, told protest attendees that freedom of expression is extremely important to UGA staff and faculty.

“As union members, we’re aware of how universities have historically and currently weaponized restrictions on expressive speech against academic workers, from McCarthyism in the 1950s to

workplace or contributing to a hostile working environment is potentially actionable by the university.

“If you are a university worker and you feel unsafe in your workplace, or targeted because of who you are, we want to hear about it,” Sheehan said during his speech. “We are here to support you.”

Currently, there is no evidence that Haynie has ever openly expressed racist or antisemitic opinions in the workplace. The statement from the College of Engineering said he was warned that expressing such views on the job could violate UGA’s nondiscrimination and anti-harassment policy.

Harris, a freshman who has never been involved in activism before, was the lead organizer of the protest. The Party for Socialism and Liberation, Young Democratic Socialists of America, the United Campus Workers of Georgia and Lefty Jews of Athens were also involved in organizing or supporting the event. [Chris Dowd]

ACC Gets Grant for EV Chargers

Athens- Clarke County received a $5 million grant through the Biden administration’s bipartisan infrastructure law to install electric vehicle chargers, according to an announcement last week from Georgia Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock.

Storms are one reason, Janssen said. For example, Hurricane Helene put leaf-andlimb pickup about two months behind. Pay is another—the county pays drivers with a Class A commercial license a little under $20 an hour when the average pay in Georgia is $30, and there is a stigma attached to working for Solid Waste.

“I would love to see a proposal where we can compensate those haulers, get the extra trucks we need and keep a regular schedule that’s equitable across the board instead of asking families to go the extra mile by making calls,” Link said.

Like Link, Commissioner Carol Myers doubted whether people would remember to call or use an online portal to request a pickup, leading to debris sitting on the curb indefinitely. And Commissioner Allison Wright worried that people who do a lot of yard work would abuse the system and request a pickup every week. Flowers said

About 50 UGA students marched from Tate Plaza to the UGA Arch carrying signs urging the university to have “zero tolerance” for fascism and stating that “the workplace is no space for Nazis.”

Last October, George Haynie allowed the Aryan Freedom Network to hold its annual “Aryan Fest” on his property in Lexington, as uncovered by the Atlanta Antifascists group. When students filed complaints with the UGA Equal Opportunity Office, the university placed Haynie on administrative leave. He was allowed to return to work on Dec. 18 after an investigation found no evidence that he had violated university policy.

The UGA College of Engineering, where Haynie works as a machine shop manager, released a statement saying that “as a state institution subject to Board of Regents policy and the First Amendment, the University of Georgia cannot discipline employees for personal, off- campus expressive

the integration movement in the 1960s to pro-Palestinian activism on campuses today,” Sheehan said. “We expect that the university will also grant the same protections extended to Mr. Haynie to all faculty, staff and student workers who speak out and take action against bigotry and white supremacy.”

Protest organizer Jacob Harris told Flagpole that while he would like to see Haynie fired, that wasn’t the purpose of the protest. “The goal of this protest was to simply spread awareness about Haynie and to unify students at UGA to show intolerance towards him. I understand that UGA as an institution may not be able to fire him just because of the legal implications,” Harris said.

According to UGA policy, no UGA employee can be fired for off- campus expressive activity which is protected under the First Amendment. On the other hand, behavior like making bigoted remarks in the

With the required 20 percent local match bringing the total to $6.1 million, that’s enough for 58 chargers at 14 sites across the county, according to Mike Wharton, director of the ACC Sustainability Department. The local portion will come from franchise fees charged to utility companies to use public land, which the ACC government sets aside in a clean energy fund.

“We are literally doubling or more than doubling our public EV charging capacity,” Wharton said.

County officials are looking at publicly owned sites for the chargers, especially those near lowincome neighborhoods and apartment complexes, where renters can’t install their own chargers. Some examples he listed include the courthouse, Lay Park, Southeast Clarke Park, Prince Avenue, North Avenue, the Cleveland Road fire station and the parkand-ride lot at the Loop’s Oconee Street exit.

As the technology matures and EV prices come down, and more used vehicles hit the market, more people will be able to afford one, Wharton said, as long as there are enough charging stations to alleviate range anxiety. They will save money on gas in the long run, as well as lowering emissions. About 30% of pollution in Clarke County comes from the transportation sector.

Twenty of the chargers will be DC fast chargers, which can charge a battery to 80% in 20 minutes, and 38 will be Level 2 chargers, which charge a vehicle in about four to six hours. They will likely have dual heads, as auto manufacturers have varying types, although Tesla’s will be the standard for most companies moving forward. The grant ➤ continued on next page

About 50 UGA students marched last week in response to a university employee who allowed a neo-Nazi rally to be held on his property.

JAKE ZERKEL

will also cover maintenance for five years. Wharton said he expects the chargers to be installed within the next year or two. [BA]

Conservatives Oppose Tax Opt-Out

The Clarke County school board held the first of three required public hearings Jan. 14 on its decision to opt out of House Bill 581, passed by the legislature during the last session and approved by voters in

November. Many other school districts— including Gwinnett, Oconee and Madison County—are also opting out due to the strain the measure could put on their budgets.

The provision ties property tax assessments to the rate of inflation, not to a rise in a home’s value. For example, if the inflation rate is 2% and the house’s assessed value rises by 5%, the school district will lose significant money, because the assessed

value would be computed at 2%. The school district relies heavily on property taxes to operate—this year property tax revenue will be an estimated $135 million, which is 57% of the district’s general fund. QBE (Quality Basic Education) is the state mechanism for funding public schools, but it hasn’t been updated since 1985. It pays the salaries of certified employees, meaning teachers. It doesn’t include money for buses, technology or the salaries of 630 classified employees, such as paraprofessionals, custodial and maintenance staff members, bus drivers, behavior interventionists or mental health professionals. In addition, CCSD is expected to contribute $1,580 per month per classified employee to the state health care system, a number that will rise to $1,885 in 2026.

The people who spoke at last week’s hearing, many of them Republican activists, told the school board to tighten their belts and spend more responsibly. Most of them mentioned the same number: 62% of Clarke County voters approved the property tax cap.

Jeb Bradberry said this means the school board should do as the voters want. With the school district, “We have a spending problem, not a revenue problem,” he said.

Joan Rhoden said the school board is suffering from “fiscal arrogance,” and she opposes the attempt to override the will of the voters, telling the board to “adjust your spending.”

Steve Middlebrooks said his dealership, Heyward Allen Toyota, paid $136,000 in school taxes, 16.2% more than a Toyota dealership in Atlanta. However, HB 521 only applies to owner-occupied homes, and CCSD officials contend that not opting out would put an even greater tax burden on businesses, as well as renters.

The board will hold its final hearing on Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. at the CCSD central office, 595 Prince Ave. [Rebecca McCarthy] f

The History of Inaugurations

PROTESTS OFTEN GREET THE NEW PRESIDENT

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

Donald J. Trump made history on Jan. 20 when he became the first convicted felon to take the presidential oath of office.

Speaking from the Capitol in Washington—the same building that was infamously attacked by a howling mob of his supporters on Jan. 6, 2021—Trump took the 35-word oath of office, vowing to “faithfully execute the office of President of the United States” and to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” Americans who remain wary and weary of Trump consider his mouthing of those sacred words to be the first lie of his second term.

the city’s historic Pennsylvania Avenue near the White House, and not until 1920 would voting rights for women become a reality across America.

In 2017, a day after Trump’s first inauguration, the Women’s March on Washington echoed the hope and determination of the pioneering inaugural protest in 1913. The massive turnout at the Women’s March was larger than the crowd that had attended Trump’s inauguration the day before. The huge and humorous gathering was dotted with signs and banners voicing such sentiments as “Dump Trump” and “Abort

George Washington was sworn in with those same words in 1789, and ever since then, the presidential oath and inauguration ceremonies have been steeped in history, for better or worse. In 1841, when he succeeded outgoing President Martin Van Buren, President William Henry Harrison caught pneumonia at his bitterly cold inauguration when he gave a long-winded twohour speech after taking the oath on March 4, 1841. He died a month later, setting a record for the shortest presidential term and the longest inaugural address. Vice President John Tyler became president, making 1841 the first year during which three men occupied the presidency.

Another “year of three presidents” occurred 40 years later in 1881. President Rutherford Hayes left office, and new President James Garfield moved into the White House on March 4, 1881. In his forward-looking inaugural address, Garfield called for equal rights for this nation’s African American citizens. It was not to be. Garfield was shot by an assassin, his wounds were worsened by his doctors, and he died after just six months in office. Vice President Chester Arthur became president, the third man to live in the White House in 1881.

American dissidents came to Washington to protest Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, but protests coinciding with presidential inaugurations are nothing new. In 1913, President Woodrow Wilson’s inauguration was upstaged by protesters demanding voting rights for American women. Thousands of female suffragists and a smattering of supportive men marched in Washington on the day before the inauguration. They were jeered and shoved by mobs of men on

Unwanted Presidencies.” My photographs and writing about that historic Washington mega-march can be seen on the Women’s March page of my website at edtant.com. Protesters against the raging Vietnam War gathered in Washington during both inaugurations of President Richard Nixon in 1969 and 1973. According to the book The War Within: America’s Battle Over Vietnam by Tom Wells, Nixon was furious that protesters were on the streets of Washington during his inauguration, and his anger led to “a growing siege mentality” and the presidential paranoia that would sweep Nixon from office during the Watergate scandal that besmirched his presidency.

On Jan. 20, 2001, when President George W. Bush was inaugurated after a controversial and contested victory over Democrat Al Gore, Americans again protested in the nation’s capital. Time Magazine reported that “at times there were more protesters than well-wishers along the parade route.” Thousands of dissidents carried protest placards with messages like “Hail to the Thief” and “The Emperor Has No Clothes.” The scene was repeated four years later, in 2005, when crowds of Americans lined Pennsylvania Avenue to protest the Bush administration’s Iraq War that had killed or injured thousands of American military men and women with no end in sight. My photos of those 2001 and 2005 inauguration day protests are also posted on my website.

Whether calm or contentious, inaugurations are history. Words by singer Joni Mitchell could describe Trump’s inauguration: “Lord, there’s danger in this land. You get witch hunts and war when church and state hold hands.” f

Protesters at President George W. Bush’s second inauguration in 2005.

Newly elected school board member Mary Bagby took the oath of office Jan. 14

What Will He Do? A LOOK AHEAD AT

THE SECOND TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

With President Donald Trump back in office, Flagpole is conducting a series of interviews to examine the impact his second term will have on Athens, from the economy to marginalized communities. First up is Audrey Haynes, a UGA School of Public and International Affairs professor who specializes in presidential campaigns. This interview was condensed and edited for clarity.

Flagpole: Let’s start at the beginning, with the election. Why did Trump win?

Audrey Haynes: It’s a lot of different things. The country is a really kind of complex amalgamation of people who are making choices based on a lot of different reasons. There are some people out there, a good percentage, who some of the ideas that Trump put forth in his 2016 campaign still resonate with them. There are people who had that hindsight with rose- colored glasses about the economy, that was their No. 1 issue. I mean, most Americans do not have a consistent ideology that they follow, even people who think of themselves as being principled conservatives or liberals. We have a magic wand that we use in our brains.

It’s always in an equation. You have the Trump part, but then you have the Biden part, then you have the Harris part. So you have all of these factors playing into it. I think that sometimes polls don’t always pick up all of that, and polls are very shallow tools. They often don’t follow up with [questions about] the intensity you might have had.

marily that were escaping horrors that might not have been a war, but it was like the equivalent of a war. And whether or not Fox exaggerated all those caravans, there was enough discussion and enough validity to some of that, and then you had just a drumbeat of narrative that Democrats and the administration could not push back against.

The thing that is most interesting is that Trump, like Elon Musk, like [Robert Kennedy Jr.], had all been Democrats in the past, and they’re really not Republicans. They are basically celebrities, and this is sort of an extension of our culture. They have the ability to manipulate narratives. If you’re only getting your news from basically what has become a propaganda voicebox, regardless of what side

So will Trump be successful? What will he do? He did not have a very successful presidential term the first go round.

FP: Other than the tax cuts, I don’t really think he accomplished much.

AH: Well, those tax cuts, what did they do? They just increased the deficit that now everyone is trying to cut. Your original question to me was, what will this mean to people who live in Athens, Georgia? The federal government and its departments do provide a lot of services and support.

FP: We’ve got all the federal funding the university gets, the research grants and agricultural grants from USDA, two hospitals, Title I funding for high poverty [K-12] schools. There’s a lot of money from Washington flowing into Athens.

AH: Agriculture, that’s big in the state, and it’s a big part of the surrounding areas of Athens. It’s not Athens alone, it’s our surrounding areas that are a part of the economy. A lot of people think positively that the Trump mojo is going to cut regulations. Interest rates are going to go down because he’s going to put his thumb on the scale.

you’re getting it from, then that’s your reality, right? How do you penetrate that reality with facts?

Information is limited. Someone like you or I who studies politics, who is paying attention to the news every day—we know every wrinkle of every story, and sometimes we don’t even have it all. Most Americans get their news from one source. Perhaps if they’re getting their news, they’re getting their news from some uncle or whatever. For the first time ever, I did some canvassing, and I was astonished by what I found. I found people who knew literally nothing, but had very strong feelings about one of the candidates or the other. I had people who would talk about housing or some other economic interest, which was completely the opposite of the candidate that they said they were going to vote for.

So in the end, I think there certainly wasn’t a mandate in the 2024 election, that what we saw was enough of a shift of the fickle American populace, who is paying more for stuff and is unhappy. We do that in America. It’s like, when this isn’t working, we throw it in the trash and we get a new one.

Yet for the Biden administration, it’s almost like optics don’t matter. They were going to defend the fact that his speeches sometimes are incoherent. But his administration really didn’t seem to do well conveying a message. Now historically, maybe he is going to go down in history based on the fact that he did a lot of his agenda. He was really struggling at times, and someone who had promised to be a transitional candidate became convinced that he would be the only person who could beat Trump. So to me, that was the first mistake.

FP: Immigration was another major issue.

AH: Factually, we did have an influx of immigrants coming from countries in Central and South America, pri-

Whenever you look back, you go, “If only we’d done this, or if only we had done that,” but that doesn’t matter now. What matters is he got elected.

FP: And so what are going to be the consequences of that?

AH: It’s almost like we’re going back to the robber baron age, right? And who knows what will change? There are a lot of people in America, for whatever reasons, that ended up voting for him, but it was not a mandate. It was a relatively slim vote, less than a percentage point in most of those swing states. That is a close election, that is still a polarized, almost evenly split set of voters.

What will he do? Will he consolidate power for the MAGA movement, which will undo the Republican Party as it was when we were growing up? He is norm-busting like crazy, and he is not doing things that a typical Republican would do, nor a typical Democrat. He’s gone back to running things like he did his TV show [“The Apprentice”].

I do think a lot of people like some aspects of Trump, but they didn’t like much about Biden. For some reason, he wasn’t as likable, even though that was his schtick. You know, early on, everybody liked Joe. He was your average guy. He got those Pittsburgh steel workers on his side. What happened to that? And Harris had a lot stacked up against her. You had an incumbent who has now the lowest approval rating going out of office than any other modern president ever. He hit 64% [disapproval] today. And I’m not sure most of them even know what he is doing. They just feel he’s been branded as someone who’s a failure, who was too old to be doing this. And Harris was going to be attached to that administration no matter what she did. They made some errors in their own narrative, but that’s a hard campaign.

FP: With the inflation issue, we see here in Athens that housing is way up, and it’s 18 bucks for a cheeseburger when you go out, but can Trump do anything about that?

AH: It’s actually a little better in Georgia compared to a lot of other states, and that’s one of the ironies—how Georgia thrived so, so well during the Biden administration.

The scary thing, too, with Trump, I think, is a lot of people question whether he’s trolling or is this real? How Trump works as a businessman is he says something strong, he’ll tell you, Barack Obama, you weren’t even born [in the U.S.], but then he’ll see you at [Jimmy Carter’s] funeral and crack a joke like he was just kidding.

Americans tend to have a short memory. [Special prosecutor] Jack Smith is now coming out on the losing end of an effort to make Trump accountable for what happened on Jan. 6, when a lot of other people that don’t have his money, stature or had been president went to jail. He was a part of everything that led up to that, and he was a part of that “stop the steal” narrative, which everyone knows that in reality was a big lie. That’s not a patriotic thing to do; it was a self-interested thing to do. But what is amazing about this country is that, if you deliver a few things, all of that is erased, and there’s this new narrative that [Jan. 6] was a picnic.

FP: I see this kind of violent style of politics now trickling down to the local level. After Laken Riley’s murder, we had situations where people were disrupting county commission meetings and even assaulting people.

AH: Which is not the America you want to live in. Protest is a great thing when it is done in a peaceful, thoughtful manner, but it’s not OK when it becomes intimidation for having a different opinion. It’s not OK to have ideas that threaten people, that make them afraid, but it looks like sometimes we are passing laws that, in a way, threaten people.

FP: One example might be the transgender sports bill in the Georgia legislature, that Trump made an issue of in the campaign by running all these ads.

AH: Trump made that an issue because people are susceptible to it. No propaganda, no ad is effective unless those feelings already exist. I always tell students that, if you really want to change public policy, it really is something that is interactive. If people are unwilling to accept those kinds of laws, then candidates won’t run on them. They run on them because they did focus groups and they did ad tests, and they got what we call “lift”—people liked it, responded to it, were afraid of it. f

PAUL EFLAND / UGA

Georgia Music Collections

AKINS FORD ARENA CELEBRATES THE STATE’S MUSICAL LEGACY

hen the Georgia Music Hall of Fame shuttered in 2011, the future of its thousands of artifacts, sound recordings, instruments and documents representing the state’s rich musical heritage was uncertain. Located in downtown Macon, square- foot building that had served as the state’s official music museum since 1996 faced financial difficulties due to decreasing revenue and low attendance.

After the state legislature voted to cease funding the museum in 2010, the museum’s board of directors considered proposals for a new site from several cities—including Athens—yet none were accepted. Some items were distributed back to the owners who had loaned them, but the majority of the collection was handed to the University of Georgia Special Collections Libraries for

American Ballet Theatre Studio Company

ferent creative epicenters across the state, “Making a Scene” kicks things off with a bit of hometown pride by highlighting Athens from 1977–1982 as The B-52s, Pylon and R.E.M. began making waves.

“I’d argue with anyone that Athens is one of the more significant music places in Georgia,” says Lewis.

The crown jewel of the exhibition is Duane Allman’s 1961–1962 Gibson SG, his main slide guitar featured most famously on “Statesboro Blues” from The Allman Brothers Band’s live album At Fillmore East Loaned by George Fontaine Sr. of New West Records and previously owned by Graham Nash (Crosby, Stills & Nash), this famed “One Brother to Another” guitar is one of the most valuable guitars ever sold at auction.

Now, an array of these original artifacts can be seen in person at Akins Ford Arena, the Classic Center’s the-art entertainment venue. Spanning from soul, R&B and country to rock and roll, new wave and hip hop, the exhibition spotlights iconic artists who were essential in shaping Georgia’s diverse musical legacy.

With the Georgia Museum Hall of Fame Collection as a cornerstone, the Special Collections Libraries have steadily grown their music holdings over the past decade by accepting donations and hunting down other special items to fill in any gaps within the collection. At the helm of this monumental endeavor is Georgia Music Collections Curator Ryan Lewis, a musician and avid fan who co- founded both Kindercore Records and the pressing plant Kindercore Vinyl. Serendipitously coming full circle, Lewis had once previously drafted a proposal for the museum to reopen under the same roof as his pressing plant.

To bring the archives to life, the Classic Center Authority and Special Collections Libraries collaborated with Terence Healy of HealyKohler Design, a nationally recognized firm that specializes in innovative exhibit designs that promote experiential learning. Installation of the Georgia Music Collections was made possible through $2.6 million in state funding, $2.7 million in private funding from the ELEVATE campaign and additional support granted by the Riverview Foundation.

Tall glass display cases organize materials by topic—think genres, fan culture, industry—and will rotate new items annually while keeping their themes. “Tools of the Trade,” for example, features interesting instruments such as the Swingin’ Medallions’ organ, Ricky Wilson’s double-neck guitar and a Gibson harp guitar from Boudleaux and Felice Bryant, who wrote for the Everly Brothers. Intended to spotlight dif-

“It’s funny, the first time I ever saw that guitar was at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2019 in an exhibit of famous instruments, and I remember being like ‘whoa, that’s crazy,’ and now here I am having brought it into the collection and exhibiting it,” says Lewis.

In addition to the display classes, several interactive stations are spread throughout the arena. One station, “Setting the Stage,” invites participants to create their own virtual concert by customizing the venue, light show and instrumentation, while another station offers music buffs a chance to go head- to-head in 10-question rounds of Georgia music trivia. A giant floor piano will guide players as they stomp their way through single-note versions of OutKast’s “Ms. Jackson” and Ray Charles’ “Georgia on My Mind.”

Exhibited on the upper suite level of the arena, a collection of portraits originally published in photographer Jason Thrasher’s 2017 art book Athens Potluck introduces visitors to over 30 familiar faces from the local music community. Athens Potluck was recently featured through a large exhibition of images and memorabilia at the Special Collections Libraries on campus last fall.

“There are a lot of opportunities for people to wrap their heads around Georgia music,” says Lewis, who hopes people will take advantage of a 9.5-hour long Spotify playlist that can be scanned and taken home to enjoy.

By hosting the Georgia Music Collections, Akins Ford Arena not only pays homage to Georgia music history but strengthens Athens’ reputation as a music destination. As a large capacity venue not only welcoming touring national acts, but serving as the home base for professional hockey team The Rock Lobsters—who were named after a song by The B-52s—the arena leans into the city’s distinct identity to both entertain and educate visitors. f

ENTERTAINMENT

2024 Restaurant Roundup

THINGS YOU MAY HAVE MISSED AND WHAT’S COMING UP

By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com

What even was this past year? An interregnum of sorts, especially in its waning days. A place for high hopes, many of which didn’t pan out. A space for mourning beloved restaurants home.made and Pulaski Heights BBQ, both of which closed after many valiant efforts. Still, there were bright spots.

Osteria Olio, the high-end Italian restaurant in the boutique Rivet House hotel as part of the Southern Mill complex, can be predictable, but it also gets a lot of things right, including meatballs and ricotta fritters that couldn’t be better. At the other end of the spectrum, creature comforts- wise, is Mitti Desi Cuisine, on South Milledge, where the menu is big, the food wonderful (dosai in particular, but really everything is good), the ’90s R&B soundtrack is poppin’, and the atmosphere is convivial.

Preacher Green’s opened in what had been a record shop on the Eastside, with an impressively laser-eyed focus on quality. The kitchen is consistent and speedy, and the dishes aren’t showy, but they demonstrate care for ingredients and ideas about a proper way of doing things.

Chibugan Cafe, in Winterville, has a cheery space and a small selection of tasty Filipino foods like chicken adobo. You can also shop the grocery shelves, get a bubble tea and enjoy a slice of cake.

Birdie’s, on Prince Avenue, technically opened in 2023, but I didn’t make it over there until 2024 because I’m a dumdum who doesn’t like fancy, carefully crafted, refined, vegetable- forward dishes. Kidding! The prices aren’t low, but the food is nicely done, and the market section has lovely fancy things, including a wonderful cheese selection.

Town and Country Kafe in Crawford, contrary to its name (which suggests meemaws and biscuits), is serving Venezuelan dishes in a spacious, impressively decked building in the middle of a big, green field. It’s worth a ride out there to check it out.

Restaurante el Aguila Domicilio, which operates out of the gas station at the

intersection of Mitchell Bridge/Timothy roads and Atlanta Highway, is another relatively simple place run by an amazing cook.

Let’s give props, too, to food trucks/ pop-ups El Perrito, which serves festooned Sonoran hot dogs out of an adorable mobile stand, and Homy Made, the food truck where former home.made chef Homero Elizalde now plies his trade, turning out a variety of nicely griddled Mexican dishes. And to Killer Crust Pizza, doing fine work out of an unpromising strip mall space in the Epps Bridge Parkway open-air mall.

Last but not least, Kenny Nguyen’s Pretty Boy opened on Prince Avenue, in the former Viva! Argentine space in the Bottleworks, creating its own fun, young place that hits just right between fancy and casual, and has fun experimenting with textures and flavors. The full review should run soon.

What else? Athens Bagel Co. finally really, really reopened downtown. That area also got a Panera Bread on Lumpkin Street, a Chipotle where the Mayflower once was, Tiger Sushi (which focuses on allyou- can-eat) in the former Utage (originally opened in 1997), Cheba Hut on Washington Street (doing decent sandwiches with a silly gimmick), a Kilwin’s in the former 283 and Bento Stop, a quick- service Korean place from the owners of Bubble Cafe, at the base of the Washington Street parking deck on Clayton Street. Poindexter in the Graduate became Iron Works Coffee in the Hotel Abacus. And Happy Lemon (bubble tea) and bb.q Chicken (Korean fried chicken) opened in a student apartment complex, but were almost walled off from traffic other than that from the building itself. Chain coffee shop Daydreamer Cafe is now located on the street level of apartment complex Rambler Athens on West Broad Street.

beer, is set to open later this year on the other side of the building. Normaltown Brewing moved nearby, in the quonset hut that used to house Jittery Joe’s Roasting Co. Buvez hired Mimi Maumus of home. made to revamp its menu. Having done that, she scooted over to Five & Ten, where she’d worked long ago, and which changed owners this summer when Peter Dale bought it. Beechwood Shopping Center opened a Playa Bowls, a branch of Atlanta chain La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant (no relation to Athens’ La Parrilla) and a First Watch fast- casual breakfast place in what had been Jason’s Deli. Word is that a Ted’s Montana Grill will open in the shopping center later this year.

Prince Market is in the process of replacing its deli counter with Yossi Kitchen, a sort of bowl-ified Indian restaurant. Athens Cooks has an updated menu, with the addition of new pastry chef Megan Allen. Down the street, Square One closed

Wings. We got more Whataburgers. Watkinsville got a second location of Baddie’s, a second location of Crawford’s G Brand BBQ, a location of Winghouse Grill once again (in what was previously Doughby’s) and Southern Prospect (upscale-ish Southern dining) in Wire Park. Later this year, it’ll add a second location of Tamez (next to Costa Alegre) and a second location of Brett’s. The Epps Bridge area is now home to a second Surcheros, Bogart added a location of cupcake franchise Small Cakes, and the Eastside got a Touchdown Wings. At the very end of the year the Food Truck Station, on Tallassee Road, in the former Caliente Cab space, started serving from its various food trucks in the parking lot.

Munch Hut/Baskat Catering moved to Baxter Street, to the former home. made. Taqueria los Primos, on Highway 441 South, got new owners and changed its name to La Laguna Express, but kept the menu fairly similar. Slater’s added lunch to its offerings. ZZ & Simone’s expanded into the space vacated by Bitty and Beau’s and added brunch. Miss the food from Dinner Party, formerly run by Shae and Ryan of ZZ’s? You can find it again at Hideaway, a new pop-up at Bar Bruno on the first Monday of each month. Check @ hideawayathens on Instagram for reservations.

and is undergoing a transformation into a Fully Loaded Pizza Agua Linda added breakfast several days a week, and Cantaritos Cafe, in the Homewood Hills shopping center, added dinner. Keep going out Prince until it turns into Jefferson Road, and you’ll find Willie B’s Chicken Coupe in the gas station where Dairy Queen was and Guthrie’s was supposed to be, plus a bunch of things in the Oak Grove shopping center, including a second location for Los Reyes, a Shake Tea and some chains. Go a little farther and you’ll find Redstone Market, a sort of fancy Striplings, which isn’t open yet but should be soon.

RIP to the Cafe on Lumpkin, Ponko Chicken on Baxter, American Public House, the downtown Amici (which is becoming a Bojangles), Cravings, Philanthropy Fresh, Taqueria Morros, Southern Brewing Co., Oconee Brewing Co. (although perhaps not permanently) and @local coffeehouse downtown. Bon de Paris, on the Eastside, closed for months, then reopened. And Saucehouse announced that it would no longer be operating as a restaurant but instead becoming an event venue.

In the Atlas Building on Barber Street, Tonique Bottle Co. opened up, providing boutique liquors and nonalcoholic beverages, and Nové Město, a project from the folks behind Hi-Lo serving Czech food and

On Atlanta Highway, the Hardee’s in front of Target became a Metro Diner, and San Angel Cocina and Cantina opened in the former Applebee’s. The former Red Lobster is set to become a Buffalo Wild

Yet to come in 2025 are a Panda Express on Highway 29, a location of sandwich franchise Sully’s Steamers on Clayton downtown, a Foxtail Coffee downtown, a Biggby Coffee somewhere, a location of Atlanta’s Savage Pizza, a Stoner’s Pizza Joint on Broad where Munch Hut had been, a boba shop (BobaMania) on Lumpkin near Grindhouse, a Caribou Coffee where the Checkers is and perhaps another Cafe Racer on Oak Street, on the grounds of the former Lickin’ Chicken. f

Preacher Green’s

• Orchids & Chocolates

• Sip N’ Paint

• Orchid Repotting Class

• & more!

calendar picks arts & culture threats & promises

MUSIC | THU, JAN. 23

Donny Benét

Georgia Theatre • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $25–30

Australian artist Donny Benét is known for revamping the disco and funk sensibilities of eras past. His synth-heavy tracks, standout basslines and signature smooth vocals result in danceable tracks that have earned him the title of “Prince on a serious budget cut.” Benét first broke onto the scene in his native Australia with his debut record, 2011’s Don’t Hold Back. Since then he has released five more albums, most recently last year’s Infinite Desires, which Billboard writer Lars Brandle calls “a retro journey that takes the listener back to a time when big hair was fine, muscles ruled Hollywood and you wouldn’t be seen out without shoulder pads.” Donny Benét will be joined by Fancy Gap, the country- tinged project of Stuart McLamb of The Love Language and songwriter and producer Charles Crossingham. [Mary Beth Bryan]

LECTURES & LIT | THU, JAN. 23

Aaliyah Bilal and Kiese Laymon

Athens-Clarke County Library • 7 p.m. • FREE!

Two authors are collaborating with the Georgia Review, Avid Bookshop, the ACC Library and the Institute for African American Studies at UGA to share works from their culturally significant bibliographies.

Aaliyah Bilal is a writer and director/producer of short films whose work focuses on the Black American Muslim experience. She originally came into the world of publishing with no agent or connections, having been acquired by Simon and Schuster after an open call for submissions and subsequently releasing her first short story collection, Temple Folk. Bilal’s forthcoming release is called Cloud Country: A Graphic Memoir Kiese Laymon is both a writer and a professor at Rice University. He won the Andrew Carnegie Medal of Excellence for Heavy: An American Memoir, which follows his early experiences of sexual violence, his suspension from college and his journey to becoming a professor. His upcoming release is called City Summer, Country Summer. A book sale and signing with the two authors will be held following selected readings from their books. [MB]

PERFORMANCE | FRI, JAN. 24

Step Afrika!

Hodgson Concert Hall • 7:30 p.m. • $10 (w/ UGA ID), $30–79

Step Afrika! is a professional step company that was founded over 30 years ago,

starting as an exchange program with the Soweto Dance Theatre of Johannesburg. The company blends the percussive dance style with traditional African dances and contemporary dance forms, as well as incorporating music, storytelling and humor. Audience participation is an important part of Step Afrika! performances; watchers are invited to stomp, cheer and participate in call-andresponses. Under founder C. Brian William’s leadership, Step Afrika! has toured more than 60 countries and been ranked among the top 10 African American dance companies. Among its other accomplishments are headlining President Barack Obama’s Black History Month reception, performing at the first ever Juneteenth Celebration at the White House and featuring in the world’s first interactive stepping exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture. [MB]

ART | FRI, JAN. 24

‘Warrior Women’

Opening Reception

Taylor-Grady House • 5–7 p.m. • FREE!

For the exhibition “Warrior Women,” Athens artist Alice Woodruff created 60 torso sculptures to powerfully portray women from across the world, both historical and modern. Each torso is accompanied with a writing about the woman’s story, often detailing her strength and struggles against brutal circumstances. Among these women are Lucy Black Bird, Malala and Harriet Tubman, as well as some lesser-known heroines. Woodruff created the first sculptures in the series in response to the breaking of the Harvey Weinstein stories in 2017, using the works of art as an outlet for her and many others’ anger regarding the prevalence of women’s sexual abuse. In the next stage of the series, she began to explore women as vessels of life, addressing both the nature of motherhood and reproductive rights. In the third stage of the series she depicts women as warriors. The sculptures will be on display through Feb. 21. [MB]

MUSIC | FRI, JAN. 24

Nordista Freeze’s Space Prom

Georgia Theatre • 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show) • $25

Nashville experimental pop artist Nordista Freeze first conceived of Space Prom in 2018, and every year since then its extravagance has only grown. His discography is characteristically whimsical, and his live performances are known for their dramatic flair, and Space Prom is a logical extension of that. The goal is to reclaim prom for everyone while hailing back to ’80s prom excellence, channeling the rock music of the era through a powerhouse band joined by a new guest vocalists in every city. Joining Nordista Freeze on the Athens stop of this touring prom is local pop favorite Hotel Fiction, who has helped assemble a large lineup of guest vocalists including Nicholas Mallis, Cardynal, P.O. the Priceless One, Bea Porges, Cannon Rogers and many more. Other stops on the tour include a Gainesville date with flipturn and a Savannah date with Dog Days. Galactic attire is encouraged. [MB] f

Bone Bag’s Distorted Number 3

PLUS,

MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

INSPECT AND SELECT: The nomination season is open for the 2025 Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards Nominations are being accepted until Mar. 20. These annual awards are presented and administered by the Classic City Rotary Eligibility isn’t terribly strict. Songs need to have been released during 2024 and have been made available to the public initially via an album or streaming site, or otherwise provided directly from the artist to the public. The songwriter or co- songwriters must “reside in Athens- Clarke County or a contiguous county—Barrow, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Madison or Jackson—to be eligible.” Anyone may make nominations, including artists themselves. There are no restrictions on style or genre. This year’s awards show happens at the 40 Watt Club on May 1. For nominations and information on the prizes, please see vicchesnutt award.com.

WHITE LIGHT FROM THE MOUTH OF INFINITY: The new album by one of the currently most compelling groups in town, Bone Bag, is out now. This one takes the already difficult band further into the realms of the inscrutable. Whereas last summer’s Glimmer maintained, no matter how seemingly tenuous, a relationship with the rock tradition, this new full-length named Distorted Number 3: Bag shreds that union thoroughly where only the slightest of clues referencing such are intact. Namely, only the tracks “cuck” and “dlairsvill” exist anywhere in that lineage. The sheer sonic aggressiveness of this also, in a way, places it in a pre-language arena that it both wears as a badge and struggles to escape. Specific highlights here are opening track “welt” as well as heavy work of “big ass pile of money” and “pumpernickel.” Honestly, I think “poke,” with its numbingly repeated phrasing, best represents the whole here. None of this is easy, but every bit of it is worth it. Find it over at hardtackk.bandcamp.com.

song named “Mike on the Bike.” Other artists appearing on this include Lou Turner (Nashville), Milan McAlevey (Maine), Light Heat (Philadelphia) and more. You can grab this over at inlovingrecollection.bandcamp. com, and for more information, please see inlovingrecollection.com. You’ll also want to carve out some time to listen to some episodes. There’s loads of good material over there.

A SONG FOR YOU: Folky pop group lighthearted, centered around the twins Gracie Huffman and Eliza Lemmon, has released its first single off its upcoming album. The song, “Borrowed,” is a sweepingly breezy tune complete with strings, a nicely swooping backward guitar and its founders’ strong vocals. This, as well as the band’s other work, is available on all major streaming services. If you want to catch this live, then head over to The Foundry, a venue that desperately needs its own dedicated website again, on Saturday, Jan. 25. Also on the bill are Khaliko—not to be confused with Athens rapper Kaliko—and Karma Kat. For tickets and all other information, please see lightheartedband. com.

THE BOYS ARE BACK: The Granfalloons have released their first new music, a single named “I’m Good,” in 16 years. The band (Seth Hendershot, Matthew Williams, Tommy Somerville, AJ Adams and Chuck Bradburn) recorded the track with engineer Adams at Nuçi’s Space’s Amplify Recording Studio. It starts off and continues with a nice Stones- y riff, the whole song is punctuated subtly by Somerville’s keyboards, and the smooth pedal steel provided by Adams does nothing to disabuse listeners of this reference. No word yet as to whether this is a one-off, stand-alone song or part of an upcoming release but, you know, as soon as I know you’ll know. For now, find this on all major streaming platforms, and for more information, please see facebook.com/thegranfalloons.

GOOD CITIZENS OF THE MONTH: Newnan-based podcast In Loving Recollection just released a new compilation that y’all are going to want to know about. It’s titled We’ll Get Through This: Songs For A More Perfect Union, was released on the day of the U.S. presidential inauguration Jan. 20, and 100% of its proceeds will go to the ACLU. The stunning part of all this is, somehow, Athens indie-pop legend—literally the band that launched Kindercore Records— Kincaid, reunited to record a brand new song with longtime Athens musician Kevin Lane. The song is named “Hot Fries.”

Another Athens-related inclusion, Joe Rowe, delivered an unreleased Glands

MARLO THOMAS REDUX: Ritika Sharma, who performs as simply Ritika, spent a few years here in town recently as a student, and during that time she launched her songwriting and performing career. In the past couple of years she’s released a handful of singles, and her newest, “Mrs. Donahue,” was released last week. The tune itself is very nicely layered in a way that only reveals itself thoroughly when listening with headphones. Ritika’s vocals are smooth as butter and relaxing in a very chill way that nicely complements the sometimes agitated tune. Find this on all major streaming services, and head to ritikas music.com for all other information. f

Distorted Number 3: Bag by Bone Bag

Aaliyah Bilal and Kiese Laymon

rock me amadeus

2025 flagpole Athens Favo rites

live music calendar

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

KENOSHA KID Entering its 20th year, the brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, postrock and improvised music.”

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 PIAZ-

ZOLLA 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.

Wednesday 22

Athentic Brewing Co.

7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday. El Paso Tacos & Tequila

6–10 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss

KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY 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.

Nowhere Bar

8 p.m. www.facebook.com/Nowhere BarAthens

F.O.R. Trio of Neal Fountain, Erik Olson and Jeff Reilly. Porterhouse Grill

7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Thursday 23

Akins Ford Arena

7:30 p.m. $26–291. www.classic center.com

PARKER MCCOLLUM Texasbased country singer-songwriter on his What Kinda Man Tour.

KAMERON MARLOWE North Carolina songwriter who has built his sound around an edgy, electric twang and visceral folk undertones.

LACI KAYE BOOTH Former “American Idol” contestant and Nashville-

based country singer-songwriter with small-town Texas charm.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Official Space Prom Pre-Party. 8 p.m. $10 (w/ Space Prom ticket), $15. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

ELIJAH JOHNSTON Athens-based emo singer-songwriter with hooky guitar-driven tunes.

RECESS PARTY Local indie-rock band with a self-described collage of rock, funk and alternative.

BEA PORGES Alternative singersongwriter who blends indie-pop, acoustic melodies and soft jazz.

CANNON ROGERS Songwriter, guitarist and pedal steel player.

UNITED METHODIST MEN’S

CHOIR Spiritual harmonies.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $25–30. www.georgiatheatre.com

DONNY BENÉT Australian artist who uses vintage synthesizers and drum machines to present his views on love and life.

Nowhere Bar

9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens

BLUES JAM Bring an instrument and join host Big C and The Moonshynes for an open blues jam. The house band includes Scott Nicholson, Derek Warren, Brent Davenport and Bo Hembree.

Ramsey Hall

7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

CAROLINE HALLECK American saxophonist currently based in Florence, Italy who has performed extensively throughout the U.S., Italy, France, Spain, Croatia, Cyprus and San Marino. Hosting a free masterclass before the recital at 6:30 p.m.

Rialto Club

6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $15 (adv.), $20. bit.ly/TylerRamsey Athens

TYLER RAMSEY Introspective singer-songwriter and unique fingerstyle guitar player who has built a rich catalog rooted in folk and melodic indie rock.

SPENCER THOMAS Upbeat, soft rock artist and member of Futurebirds whose sound is influenced by the likes of Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. 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 24

40 Watt Club

8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $25. www.40watt.com

SPACE PROM Nashville psychpop artist Nordista Freeze’s touring show of retro music and galactic attire. Joined by Athens indie pop favorite Hotel Fiction. Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

TRIO METRO Formerly known as Take3, this piano, sax and drums trio plays jazz standards and an array of more contemporary covers with a jazz twist.

Buvez

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $5. www.instagram/com/buvez_athens

CUDDLING Athens emo band that claims to make “the worst songs you’ve ever heard.”

TREPID New local grungegaze.

ICONOSTASIS Atlanta-based experimental noise band.

Ciné

8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com

SMASH HEADS! New Atlanta band.

GIANT DENIRO Absurdist punk band from Milledgeville.

THE MUSKOGEES Rock band mixing alternative and funk influences.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

MARCEL SLETTEN California-born and Athens-based electronic music producer, composer and artist whose sound varies from peaceful to intense.

TH33RA No info available.

ELLWIN Nightshade Family local DJ and producer playing dubstep, riddim, industrial, psytrance, and drum and bass.

Live Wire

Thrash & Bash. 8 p.m. $12. www. livewireathens.com

CYNTRYST Hard rock featuring fast, aggressive riffs contrasted with softer notes.

JET ENGINE DRAGONS Progressive and technical death metal band that is influenced by bands like Opeth, Nevermore and Allegaeon.

ASHES TO OMENS Seamless blend of hard rock, alt rock and post-grunge.

BEAST MODE Blackened thrash metal outfit writing fast, intricate, heavy riffs.

Madison-Morgan

Cultural Center

6:30 p.m. (doors) $35. www.mmccarts.org

SEAN OF THE SOUTH Sean Dietrich plays songs off of his album Porch Music and tells stories of growing up in the American South.

Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). SOLD OUT! bit.ly/CharlieStarrJan24

CHARLIE STARR Vocalist and lead guitarist of Blackberry Smoke, a rock and roll band well known for their blend of country, blues and rock. Joined by bandmate Benji Shanks.

NATHAN NELSON Atlanta-based songwriter with an “Amerijuanacana” style.

Normal Bar

Attaboy Presents: Benefit for Static Age Records in Asheville. $10–20. www.instagram.com/attaboytapes

DOG PERSON Organ-driven pop with breezy ennui from members of The Buddy System, Nana Grizol and Go Public.

WET MEADOWS Local group specializing in richly orchestrated “botanical rock,” where knowing the Latin or generic names of Southeastern trees, shrubs and woody vines may enrich the listening experience.

BUGS EAT BOOKS Catchy indie pop from Athens. Nowhere Bar

9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens

SEVENTH SON Athens-based alternative rock band.

Tapped Athens Wine Market

7 p.m. www.tappedathens.com

JOHN BROCATO AND ALYS

WILLMAN Brocato (The Persians) and Willman (Dragana) perform originals and covers of popular tunes.

VFW Post 2872

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/vfwpost2872

RAMBLIN’ COUNTRY BAND

Georgia-based band playing country, western and rock classics. Line dancing during the band breaks.

Saturday 25

40 Watt Club

Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7 p.m. (doors). $16 (adv.), $21. www.40watt.com

THE AIN’T SISTERS Atlanta-based folk group fronted by Arrie Bozeman and Barb Carbon.

CLAIRE CAMPBELL Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist of Hope For Agoldensummer.

ATHICA

Sonic Space. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). Donations accepted. www. athica.org

IHLYATT Experimental sound and visual artist Josh Anderssen creates abstract electronic performances using a mixture of samples, synth and guitar heavily manipulated by various effects.

GYPS Experimental drone outfit of Xander Witt.

Athentic Brewing Co. Noche de Baile. 8 p.m.–12 a.m. $10. www.athenticbrewing.com

DJ MANE TIMBAthens and SALSAthens host a monthly dance social with the latest Latin music. The evening kicks off with a 45-minute dance class.

Bolo Bolo Athens

7 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $10–15 suggested donation. www. instagram.com/bolo.bolo.ath

KILLICK HINDS Appalachian

Trance Metal made on unusual stringed instruments with an emphasis on unquantifiable rhythms (shaping time), intuitive intonation (shaping pitch) and shamanistic ROYGBIV (shaping color). Tonight’s show includes solo sets as well as a collaborative set of improvised music.

IPEK EGINLI Experimental sound artist and whose ever-evolving creative process involves electroacoustic free improvisation on piano, voice, modular synthesizers and no-input mixing boards.

Buvez

8 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens

ANDERS THOMSEN Renowned guitarist and Americana artist performing rootsy Western swinginfluenced honky-tonk rock and roll.

A.C. DARNELL Local country frontman playing stripped back songs.

MICHAEL JOE WHITE Local singer-songwriter and acoustic guitarist with songs inspired by growing up in the deep South.

Ciné

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com

ANNIE LEETH Local producer and violinist loops drums, synths and strings.

THE RISHIS Psych-folk featuring members of The Olivia Tremor Control and Wet Meadows.

FORCEGHOST Augusta-based electronic psych duo of Eric Kinlaw and Marcus Barfield.

The Classic Center

7 p.m. (show), 10:30 p.m. (afterparty). $70–175 (show), $35 (afterparty). www.classiccenter.com

CLASSIC CITY BLUES FEST

This first annual festival includes performances by Tucka, Sir Charles, West Love and more. Followed by an after-party hosted by the Classic City Entertainment Group and DJ Dirty. Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

MAJOR No info available.

HONEYPUPPY Indie rock band self-described as a “menace to society.”

PONDGORL Athens-based artist

Laila Li McCleery joins genre-bending friends in a band of beautiful, harmonious DIY glory.

The Foundry Rock the Ark. 7 p.m. $20 (students), $25. www.athensark.org

LIGHTHEARTED Local alternative folk rock band anchored by the gorgeous harmonies of twin sisters Eliza Lemmon and Gracie Huffman.

KARMA KAT Local band with sounds of rock, pop and funky jazz. They’ll rock your whiskers off!

KHALIKO Atlanta-based alternative rock band.

No. 3 Railroad Street

7 p.m. $10. www.3railroad.org

THE ORIGINAL SCREW TOPS

Athens blues band that has been active for over a decade performing original tunes and genre classics. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens ANDY SYDOW Americana artist from Denver.

Oak House Distillery ACCA Percentage Event. 2–10 p.m. (event), 6:30 p.m. (music). www. oakhousedistillery.com

SUTHERLAND Neal Anthony and Brian Smith play a tribute to UGA guitar professor John Sutherland. St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church 6:30 p.m. $50. www.collectiveartists workshop.org

FROM BROADWAY & BEYOND

Collective Artists Workshop presents a fundraising event that includes a three-course Italian dinner with wine, dessert, singing waiters and performances of classic Broadway hits by local musical theater stars. work.shop

9 p.m.–2:30 a.m. $10. afterglo.ath@ gmail.com

TECHNO NIGHT Featuring DJs ALX, Gunnar and Fairiez, plus new experimental electronic duo Halogenic.

Sunday 26

Buvez

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $7. www.instagram.com/buvez_athens

NOTHINGIFANYTHING A dark and powerful blend of metal, post-hardcore and electronic.

SEVER THE BOND The prince of metalcore.

SAFER SIDE Kennesaw alt rock. Hendershot’s Benefit show. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

THE WILD JORDAN TONK-CATS

An all-star group of local veteran musicians, encouraging attendees to donate warm hats, scarves, gloves, etc. for The Sparrow’s Nest. Oak House Distillery

3:30 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery.com

MAX GANEM Acoustic guitarist playing alternative covers.

Rialto Club

5:30 p.m. (doors), 6:30 p.m. & 7:45 p.m. (two sets). $15 (adv.), $20. bit.ly/SegarJazzJan26

SEGAR JAZZ AFFAIR WXAG radio DJ Dwain Segar curates a night of smooth jazz.

J. HENRY Saxophonist from New Orleans who has been performing for audiences across the country for the past 26 years.

Monday 27

Porterhouse Grill 7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Ramsey Hall 5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

LEAH PARTRIDGE Vocalist performing for the UGA Faculty Recital series.

Tuesday 28

Flicker Theatre & Bar Primordial Void Presents. 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

DJ LUCAS Rapper from western Massachusetts best known for his track “Game Warden.”

PAPO2OO4 Rapper from New Jersey best known for his track “Easy Bread.”

ONESKIP Rap artist. SOUB 200 Rapper from Georgia. Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

KENOSHA KID Entering its 20th year, the brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, postrock and improvised music.”

Normal Bar 8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens

FAWNEY RIG Irish folk-rock project featuring vocals by Claire Campbell (Hope For Agoldensummer) and Nathan Peters (Beat Up) backed by friends on accordion, banjo, drums and upright bass to play Celtic classics, foot-stomping jigs, sweet ballads and even a few rockers. Ramsey Hall

7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

MEGUMI KANDA Principal trombone of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra since 2002, internationally acclaimed performer, teacher and author.

Down the Line

1/29 Cavatina Duo (Ramsey Hall) 1/30 Swing Theory, Louis Romanos & Erik Olson (40 Watt Club) 1/30 Concerto Competition Winners with UGA Symphony Orchestra (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall)

1/30 Mars Hill, Moonroof, The Downstairs, Tattoo Logic (Flicker Theatre & Bar) f

event calendar

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

CLASSES: Wine Tasting (Tapped Athens Wine Market) Guest sommelier Keith Herndon leads a tasting of wines from Spain. 6:30 p.m. $40. www.tappedathens.com

COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com

EVENTS: 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: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia

GAMES: Laura & Lauren’s Trivia Night (Hendershot’s) Test your trivia knowledge. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (La Fiesta) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

GAMES: ’80s Movie Trivia (B&B Theatres) Test your trivia knowledge. 7:30 p.m. www.bbtheatres.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

Thursday 23

ART: Curator Talk (Georgia Museum of Art) Asen Kirin, Parker Curator of Russian Art, will give a gallery talk on “The Awe of Ordinary Labors.” 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.georgia museum.org

ART: Teen Studio: Still-Life Painting (Georgia Museum of Art) View the exhibition “The Awe of Ordinary Labors,” and make your own work of art inspired by the show. Ages 13–18. Email to RSVP. 5:30–8 p.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu

CLASSES: Boots & Brews Line Dancing (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn the line dancing basics from hosts Becky and Patty. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

COMEDY: Roast Battle Finals (Onward Reserve) Local comedians compete in the finale for the title of Roast Champion of Athens for 2024. 8 p.m. $10–15. www.athens comedy.com

EVENTS: Wine Tasting (Tonique Bottle Co.) Sample different nonalcoholic wines from St. Vivianna & ISH. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.shop tonique.com

FILM: Silent Films and Cocktails (Hendershot’s) Settle in with a drink for a night of silent film showings. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

GAMES: BINGO for the Arts (Festival Hall) This fundraiser features BINGO, food trucks, a cash bar and live DJ. 5:30–9 p.m. $50. www. festivalhallga.com/event/2025bingo-for-the-arts

GAMES: Adult Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) All skill levels are invited to join the popular role playing game. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this weekly game of chance. Thursdays, 6 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.facebook.com/vfw2872

GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Todd Henderson. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnys pizza.com

GAMES: 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

LECTURES & LIT: 2024 Shouky Shaheen Lecture (Lamar Dodd School of Art) Iris Moon will present on “Monstrous Beauty: A Feminist Revision of Chinoiserie.” 5:30 p.m. FREE! art.uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (ACC Library)

Award-winning authors Aaliyah Bilal and Kiese Laymon will discuss topics from a variety of their published works. 7 p.m. FREE! www.avidbook shop.com/event/bilal-laymon

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 24

ART: Opening Reception (The Taylor-Grady House) View “Warrior Women” which features over 60 ceramic sculptures by Alice Woodruff. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.mmagna. com, www.taylorgrady.com

ART: Opening Reception (MAGallery) Barbara Odil’s signature mixed

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

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (Avid Bookshop) Author Derek Updegraff will read from his new book Whole. 7 p.m. $5. www.avidbookshop.com

PERFORMANCE: Step Afrika! (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall) Step performances blending percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, traditional African dances and more. Piedmont Athens

CLASSES: Free Yoga Weekend (Fuel Hot Yoga) Enjoy two days of classes, giveaways and more. Registration required. 8 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.fuelhotyoga.com

CLASSES: Homebuyer Education Workshop (Athens Land Trust) Athens Land Trust hosts this HUD-certified course for first-time homeowners to learn about the home-buying process in Georgia. Registration required. 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. $10. housingcounseling @athenslandtrust.org

CLASSES: Home Seller Seminar (Coldwell Banker Upchurch Realty) Get first-hand insights and expert advice from realtors and industry professionals about selling a home. 11 a.m. FREE! www.upchurchrealty. com

media sculptures that elevate nature and its process of decay will be on view. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.The MadisonArtistsGuild.org

COMEDY: Coco: The Time Traveling Slut (Flying Squid Comedy) UK queer comedian and social media star Max Norman performs his new show. 8 p.m. $10. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com

COMEDY: Elijah Nevels Live (Athentic Brewing Co.) Host Trey Lissimore presents a lineup of comedians with headliner Elijah Nevels. 8:30 p.m. $12. www.athens comedy.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

Regional Performances for Young People. 10 a.m. $3 (student), $5 (chaperone). pac.uga.edu

PERFORMANCE: Step Afrika! (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall) Step performances blending percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, traditional African dances and more. 6:45 p.m. (pre-performance talk). 7:30 p.m. $30–79. pac.uga.edu

PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Fabulous Friday’s (Hendershots) Enjoy a fabulous night of drag entertainment celebrating the first show of 2025 with performer Elea Atlanta. Ages 18 & up. 9 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirlcabaret. com

SPORTS: UGA Ice Dawgs vs University of South Carolina (The Classic Center) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. www.classiccenter.com

Saturday 25

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

KIDSTUFF: LEGO Club (ACC Library) Drop in and build your own unique LEGO creations. Ages 11 & under. 2–3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

KIDSTUFF: Snow Much Frozen Fun (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna and Elsa for snow and ice science and art. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

PERFORMANCE: From Broadway & Beyond (St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church) The Collective Artists Workshop presents a dinnerand-a-show fundraiser with performances of classic Broadway songs. 6:30 p.m. $50. www.collective artistsworkshop.org/tickets

PERFORMANCE: Boybutante’s Theme Release Party (Hendershot’s) Enjoy drag performances by Athens newcomers ahead of this year’s theme announcement. 7–10 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ boybutante

SPORTS: UGA Ice Dawgs vs University of South Carolina (The Classic Center) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 12 p.m. www.classiccenter.com

Sunday 26

CLASSES: Free Yoga Weekend (Fuel Hot Yoga) Enjoy two days of classes, giveaways and more. Registration required. 8 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.fuelhotyoga.com

CLASSES: High Vibes Mocktail Class (Classic Citiva) Learn how to create cannabis-infused pineapple mango margaritas. Registration required. 5 p.m. www.classiccitiva. com

COMEDY: Comedy Open Mic (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Show up and go up with your stand-up material. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/bulaatmaikai

CLASSES: Miniature Painting Workshop (Tyche’s Games) Bring your primed miniatures and learn the basics of painting them. $5. 1 p.m. www.tychesgames.com

CLASSES: Introduction to Archery (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn basic safety and techniques for archery. Registration required by phone. Ages 9 & up. 1 p.m. $10. 706-783-5349

COMEDY: Clarke Central Improv Team Fundraiser (Flying Squid Comedy) Local improvisors join forces for this fundraiser to support Clarke Central’s Improv Team. 7 p.m. $8. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com

EVENTS: Classic City Marathon

(The Classic Center) The marathon, half-marathon and marathon relay will begin at the same time downtown and wrap up with post-race festivities at the Classic Center. 7:30 a.m. www.classiccitymarathon.com

GAMES: Day of Board Game

Demonstrations (Tyche’s Games) Try new games and watch how they’re played. 12 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com

GAMES: Board Games (Bogart Library) Enjoy a variety of board games and card games with friends. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart

COMEDY: Michael Cera & Me! (The Globe) Join the Take This! Broadcasting Channel as they chronicle Michael Cera’s career using improv comedy. 9 p.m. $7. takethiscomedy@gmail.com

EVENTS: Love Athens Wedding Expo (Live Wire) Meet over 20 wedding vendors and enjoy music, door prizes, swag bags and more. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $10. www.livewire athens.com

EVENTS: Wake-n-Bake Off (Terrapin Beer Co.) This cooking and baking competition requires Terrapin’s Wake-n-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout as an ingredient. 4 p.m. $20. www.terrapinbeer.com

GAMES: Lazy Sunday Games Day (Athentic Brewing Co.) Bring your favorite board, video, card or role playing games and meet fellow gamers. 1–5 p.m. www.athentic brewing.com

GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this game of chance. 1 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.facebook.com/vfw2872

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www. facebook.com/baddogathens

GAMES: Trivia Night (Cheba Hut) Test your trivia knowledge. 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/chebahut SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org

The Collective Artists Workshop’s annual fundraiser From Broadway & Beyond will feature dinner and performances by local musical theater stars on Jan. 25.

Monday 27

CLASSES: Building Your Financial Future (Athens Land Trust) Financial education workshop for ACC residents. 5:30 p.m. FREE! 706613-0122, www.athenslandtrust. org

CLASSES: Yamuna Body Rolling (Healing Arts Centre) Release tension, improve strength and more with this introductory class. Registration required. 5:30 p.m. $30. www.healingartscentre.net/sangha

COMEDY: Kick-Back Comedy (Gyro Wrap) Trey Lissemore hosts a lineup of local comedians. The Upstairs Bar and Comedy Club. Last Mondays, 8 p.m. $7 (adv.), $10. www.instagram.com/theup_stairs bar

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

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

Tuesday 28

ART: Artist Reception (Buvez) Painter and artist Erica Ellison will have art on view with hors d’oeuvres served. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/buvez_athens

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

CLASSES: Intro to Sanborn Maps (ACC Library) Join Archives & Special Collections staff who will review how to access these maps for historical property research. 5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

FILM: Athentic Movie Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of John Carpenter’s cult classic The Thing 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of Indian Bride by Karin Fossum and discuss it with the group. 5:30–6:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

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: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens

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: Content Creator’s Meetup (ATHICA) AthensGATV invites creatives for a monthly meetup, this month presenting on “Engaging Students via Content Creation.” 7–9 p.m. FREE! www. athica.org

PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “Some Body to Love” with eight people sharing how we perceive and feel about bodies. 7–9 p.m. $10. www.rabbitbox.org

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 29

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

ART: Artist Reception (Ramsey Hall) Painter Benjamin Britton’s “surface potential,” a collection of four

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

KIDSTUFF: Lunar New Year Crafternoon (ACC Library) Drop in for crafts to celebrate the Year of the Snake. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org

MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com f

When you are struggling to meet the demands of a controlling and jealous partner it is hard to plan for the future. Project Safe has advocates available to help you sort through what options are available to you, and how you can stay safe while you explore options. All services are free and confidential.

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

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

ATHFEST ARTIST MARKET (Downtown Athens) The AthFest Music & Arts Festival Artist Market is now accepting applications. Deadline Apr. 1. Email examples of work to art@athfesteducates.org and fill out the online form. bit.ly/42hQJKq

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 art-

work in monthly exhibitions. Email an introduction and a few examples of work. careywelsh20@gmail.com

CALL FOR ART (Winterville Library)

Apply to be a featured local artist in the Front Room Gallery. The library accepts all 2D mediums such as watercolor, acrylic, collage, textile, photography, digital and multimedia. swatson@athenslibrary.org

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 ENTRIES (ATHICA) The annual Members’ Showcase spotlights artists who support the gallery through memberships. New and existing members are invited to submit an original work of their choosing in any media. See website for specifications. Deadline Feb. 9. Drop-off on Feb. 10, 4–6 p.m. Opening Reception Feb. 15. Exhibition on view through Mar. 16. www.athica.org/updates/call-2025showcase

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. Exhibition on view Mar. 13–May 10. $35/ entry fee. accgov.com/lyndonhouse FLIGHT OF THE FIREFLIES CALL FOR ART (Dudley Park) The ACC

art around town

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-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY BOGUE GALLERY (2025 Baxter St.) Library staff members share their creations. Through Feb. 23.

ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) “Plantronics” presents the collaborative conceptual works of Wendy DesChene and Jeff Schmuki, environmental science artists who 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, “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

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 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 Pro-

ductions 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

OUR TOWN (Marigold Auditorium, Winterville) The Winterville Players are hosting auditions for Our Town Auditions held Jan. 27–28, 7–9 p.m. Rehearsals held Tuesday–Thursday evenings beginning Feb. 11. Performances held Mar. 20, 21, 23. wintervillecampus@gmail.com

Classes

A COURSE OF LOVE (Unity Athens Church) Learn a positive path for spiritual living based on A Course in Miracles. Wednesdays, 10–11:30 a.m. FREE! www.unity athens.com

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 “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

Reception Jan. 31, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view through Feb. 2. DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) “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. Through January.

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Colorful and unusual paintings by Mark Dalling. Through January.

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. Through 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.) 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. Through Feb. 8.

• “Twist” features paintings by Carol John full of pop colors and vibrating repetitions of dots, lines and shapes. Studio Visit Feb. 22. Through Mar. 15.

• “Distillations” features drawings on paper and wall-bound constructions by Johntimothy Pizzuto and Patti Roberts-Pizzuto. Studio Visit Mar. 1, 1–4

p.m. Through Mar. 15.

MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) In “Branching Out,” Barbara Odil presents mixed media sculptures that elevate nature and its process of decay to unprecedented artistic levels. Opening Reception Jan. 24, 6–8 p.m. Through Mar. 8.

OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) “Winter Respite” features photographs by Glenn Galau. Through Feb. 28.

offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships

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

CUBAN SALSA CLASSES (UGA Dance Building) TIMBAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Follows UGA closures. Sundays, 3 p.m. (Level 1) and 4 p.m. (Level 2). $10 drop-in. timb athens@gmail.com, www.timb athens.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

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

IMPROV ACTING (work.shop) This five-week course covers the basics of improvement and comedy acting taught by Matt House. Begins Feb. 2, 4–5:30 p.m. $120. xmatthouse@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

YAMUNA BODY ROLLING (Sangha Yoga Studio) Release tension and stress, lengthen and tone your muscles, improve your posture and more. Class held Jan. 27, 5:30–6:45 p.m. Pre-register by Jan. 24. $30. venmo.com/u/SanghaYoga Sutdio

YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Revolution is a multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering yoga and therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed practices. Check website for upcoming classes and programs. www.revolutiontherapy andyoga.com

YOGA CLASSES (Highland Yoga) Classes are offered seven days a week. Intro offer includes 30 days for $30. www.highland-yoga.com

YOGA CLASSES (Let It Be Yoga Studio, Watkinsville) Classes are offered in Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini, beginner, gentle and other styles. Check online calendar for weekly offerings. www.letitbeyoga.org

YOGA CLASSES (Shakti Yoga Athens) This body-neutral and traumainformed space in Normaltown offers heated and unheated classes. Classes are offered in Power Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Yin and Restorative Yoga. New student offer: four weeks of unlimited yoga for $40. shakti yogaathens.com

Help Out

ATHENS REPAIR CAFE (Solid Waste Office) The repair cafe is seeking volunteers comfortable fixing any of the following: clothing, pillows, small appliances, lamps, electronics, computers, bikes, small engines, clocks, knives, tools. The repair cafe is held the fourth Sunday of every month. reuse@accgov. com, www.accgov.com/RepairCafe MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUNTEERS (Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living) Seeking volunteers to assist a nonprofit agency that serves individuals living with dis-

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.

STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead)

Developed in collaboration with the Georgia Writers Museum in Eatonton, “Touch Grass: Steffen Thomas, Senora Lynch, Raven Waters” is an environmentally-focused exhibition that explores humanity’s place in the natural world. Opening Reception Feb. 1, 4–6 p.m. On view Jan. 25–June 28. • Alexandra Huynh presents “From Tears to the Sea and Other Works.” Jan. 25–June 28.

UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.)

Benjamin Britton, an associate professor at the Lamar Dodd School of Art, presents “surface potential,” a collection of four abstract paintings over 7 feet tall. Opening Reception Jan. 29, 5–6 p.m. Through Aug. 8.

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.

TAYLOR-GRADY HOUSE (634 Prince Ave.) “Warrior Women” is a collection of 60 ceramic torsos by Alice Woodruff that celebrate real-life heroines from American history, contemporary society and across the globe. Opening Reception Jan. 24, 5–7 p.m. Artist Talk Feb. 20, 7 p.m. Through Feb. 21. 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. Through March.

WINTERVILLE LIBRARY (115 Marigold Ln., Winterville) “Our Resilient Community Art Show” features oil and acrylic paintings, multimedia narrative pieces, traditional and digital drawings, and 3D interactive sculptures by students from Our Resilient Community, an agile learning center in Winterville. Reception Jan. 28, 5 p.m. Through Feb. 7.

abilities 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 (TaylorGrady 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

cacy. 706-424-2794, dlwahlers@ 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

NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

(Oconee Presbyterian Church) Peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Second Monday of the month, 6:30–8 p.m. FREE! joannehnamihallga@gmail.com

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

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Designer,” “Open Studio,” “Art School Junior,” “Saturday Morning Crafts” and more. Check website for schedule and details. www.tree housekidandcraft.com DAY OFF SCHOOL PROGRAMS (Various Locations) ACC Leisure Services offers programs on Clarke County School District’s student holiday. Programs include Cupid’s Day of Play at Lay Park, Funny Valentine Day Day of School Camp at Howard Park and Wild Hearts at Sandy Creek Nature Center on Feb. 14, plus Ready, Set, Go at Lay Park on Feb. 17. 706-613-3800

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

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

AL-ANON 12 STEP (Multiple Locations) Recovery for people affected by someone else’s drinking. Free daytime and evening meetings are held several times throughout the week in Athens. www.ga-al-anon. org/meetings

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (Athens, GA) If you think you have a problem with alcohol, call the AA hotline or visit the website for a schedule of meetings in Barrow, Clarke, Jackson and Oconee Counties. 706-389-4164, www.athens aa.org

ATHENS COUNCIL OF THE BLIND (Athens, GA) Open to people of all ages with vision impairments, their families and friends. Topics include adaptive equipment, recreational and social opportunities, and advo-

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

(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. Meets every second and fourth Wednesday. Next meeting Jan. 22, 6:30–8 p.m. FREE! vibrantbeing.net/griefsupport

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

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 APPLICATIONS (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

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.seventhgenerationn ativeamericanchurch.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

SOUTHERN MAN CONTEST (VFW Post 2872) Southern Exposure Radio presents a contest to recognize ordinary men who go above and beyond in their communities and families. Seeking nominations. Winner will be recognized at an event on Feb. 15. 706-988-4061, www.southernman.info

VIC CHESNUTT SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARDS (Athens, GA) Classic City Rotary is now accepting nominations. Songs must have a public release date during 2024, and songwriters must reside in Athens-Clarke County or a contiguous county. All genres welcome. Winner receives $1,500 cash prize, recording time from Amplify at Nuçi’s Space, a photo shoot with Jason Thrasher and a Team Clermont promotional package. Finalists receive $250 cash prizes. Deadline Mar. 20. www.vicchesnuttaward.com

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

An opening reception for “Our Resilient Community Art Show” will be held at the Winterville Library on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 5 p.m.

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.

WANTING TO RENT

Single, retired professional seeking an Athens area ADU or guest house for a longterm rental. Move-in April 30. Not a pet owner. Willing to provide property management when owner is absent. Contact: mr11344@gmail. com

Flagpole ♥s our advertisers.

FOR SALE FURNITURE

Moving: Traditional furniture sale with bedroom, living, dining and home office. Home theater equipment, oriental rugs, lighting, wall art, decorative items and kitchen appliances also. Contact: mr11344@gmail.com for images and pricing.

MISCELLANEOUS

Business Water Solutions offers the cleanest drinking water available through innovative bottle- less water coolers and ice machines. 706-248-6761 or businesswatersolutions.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.athensschoolofmusic.com. 706-543-5800

Flagpole ♥s our donors.

INSTRUMENTS

Two Mint 2018 Guitars. Fender MIM Strat $650 and Epi LP Trad $550. Includes new hardcases. No mods. Contact: mr11344@gmail. com.

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.

Get ready for spring! Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden clean- up/ maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706-395-5321.

Flagpole ♥s our readers.

MASSAGE

Now accepting new massage clients! Relieve pain, reduce stress, and feel amazing. Book your personalized session today: 706- 207- 4796 or www.soulfulserenitymassage.com.

Traveling massage therapist offering in- home services. Call or text: 706- 963- 0068. Relax With John.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Part 107 Licensed Drone Pilot offering 4K Aerial Photography/Videography services. $150+ depending on project. Contact Matt via athensdronepilot@gmail.com with inquiries. IG: @athensdronepilot

JOBS

PART-TIME

Join a diverse, inclusive workplace and get paid to type! 12–40 hours, Mon–Fri. NEVER be called in for a shift you didn’t sign up for. Must type 65+ wpm. Make your own schedule and work independently with no customer interaction. Starts at $13 with automatic increases. www. ctscribes.com

NOTICES

ORGANIZATIONS

Become a Juvenile Offender Advocate to compassionately and effectively transform the lives of young people in need of mentorship and rehabilitation. juvenileoffenderadvocateinc.org

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 zigzaghjh@ 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

Need old newspapers for your garden? Call Flagpole for info: 706-549-0301

Northeast Health District offers free or low- cost services to all people within our area and to promote healthy lifestyles among all members. northeasthealthdistrict.org

The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia accepts food donations between 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Mon-Fri. Volunteer opportunities available! foodbanknega. org

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 VFW Post 2872. Join us for weekly Bingo nights, live music, yoga, and more at VFW Post 2872 at 835 Sunset Drive in Athens!

Get Flagpole Delivered!

Makes a great gift! Only $65 for six months or $125 for one year. Purchase online at www.flagpole.big cartel.com, call 706-549-0301 or email frontdesk@flagpole.com.