FP250312

Round for St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations p. 11

Oyster Roast

L UX A ETERNA

Kim, violoncello, Elizabeth Johnson Knight

Myra Hess, Fanny Hensel, James Morris,

Franz Liszt.

Project Safe’s annual fundraiser Dancing With the Athens Stars returns Mar. 15 at The Classic Center (pictured is last year’s Audience Favorite Award winners Natalie Cox and Gary Warenfelt). For more info, see the online Calendar Pick at flagpole.com.

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alicia Nickles

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner

ADVERTISING SALES Libba Beaucham, Dave Martin

CITY EDITOR Blake Aued

MUSIC EDITOR Sam Lipkin

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin

OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene

CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene

AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson

CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brown, Chris Dowd, Stanley Dunlap, Maya Homan, Gordon Lamb, Jill Nolin, Ed Tant, Ross Williams

CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser

CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe

EDITORIAL & OFFICE INTERN Mary Beth Bryan

PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel

SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons

Catch Flagpole Ad Reps Dave & Libba performing at the Athens Farmers Market Saturday, March 15th at Bishop Park! the

Libbaloops Improv Looping! 10AM-12PM

Dave MartinCountry Pickin’!8AM-10AM

city dope

Affordable Housing DESPITE PROGRESS, COMMISSIONERS CONTINUE TO BICKER

By Blake Aued and Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com

The Athens- Clarke County Commission approved an ambitious housing development off Barnett Shoals Road called “The Shoals” (formerly known as Lakeshore), but not without some controversy.

The designer, W&A Engineering, envisions four different neighborhoods to be constructed in several phases around Dekle Lake that will include between 575–745 housing units, at least 20,000 square feet of commercial space, a mile-long extension of the North Oconee River Greenway and outlets for charging both electric cars and electric bikes. The housing will come in a wide variety of different types, including townhomes, duplexes, quadruplexes, apartments in mansion- style buildings and single- family homes.

The project was unanimously approved by the ACC Planning Commission, and public comment was in favor of the proposal, but that didn’t stop it from being controversial among ACC commissioners.

Commissioner Tiffany Taylor harshly criticized the development, which is primarily designed for the upper-middle class, as being unaffordable and unwelcoming for people who live nearby. “I think about the underrepresented communities within that area who [are] not going to be able to partake in this new development. If we are honest, it’s not for that area,” Taylor said. “It is going to create an area where residents are not welcome who already live there.”

At a meeting in February, Taylor stated her belief, which is not supported by data, that the construction of new housing like this can cause displacement of existing residents. As such, she has pledged to oppose all new construction that lacks affordable units.

Commissioner Ovita Thornton spoke up to support the development, but she agreed with Taylor on the broader point that the

local government needs to do more to promote affordable housing in Athens. “I don’t think that this body, since I’ve been on the commission, has taken [affordable housing] seriously,” Thornton said. “I don’t know where you think low, moderate [income] people of color are going to go.”

“They don’t care,” Taylor interjected.

Thornton asked for more public-private partnerships to address Athens’ affordable housing shortage and urged her colleagues to take the issue more seriously.

Other commissioners denied that the local government has failed to take action on affordable housing, touting the many millions of dollars that have been spent building hundreds of affordable units in recent years. “We put almost $40 million into an affordable housing fund with our last SPLOST program, which is pretty unprecedented for a community of this size,” said Commissioner Melissa Link. “We’re seeing the fruits of that coming up just a couple blocks away in the North Downtown Project [aka the redevelopment of Bethel Midtown Village, now called The View at NoDA]. Folks are moving in there as we speak.”

Private developer Columbia Residential recently announced that it is now leasing units at NoDA, stressing the convenient location and premium amenities. Twothirds of the units are reserved for lowerincome residents through local SPLOST funding, federal tax credits and a partnership with the Athens Housing Authority. While market-rate units are available to college students, under federal law the subsidized and public housing units are not.

Mayor Kelly Girtz listed a number of affordable housing developments the commission has approved in recent years, including apartments off Highway 72 and senior housing at Lakewood Hills and on

Atlanta Highway. Going further, he mentioned several affordable housing programs funded though the federal American Rescue Plan, including housing construction, a home repair program and a first- time homebuyer down-payment assistance program.

Commissioner Carol Myers called for a work session dedicated to affordable housing so that commissioners could have a more in-depth discussion on the topic. “In general, affordable housing funding does not come from local governments, it comes from the state and the federal government. If we want to take more money and use the [public] property that we have, I think there’s ways we can explore this. But we have to do it in a setting where we have enough time to discuss the issues, to come up with strategies,” Myers said.

Commissioners approved the proposed development off Barnett Shoals Road in a 7-2 vote, with Taylor and Commissioner Stephanie Johnson voting no and Commissioner John Culpepper absent.

In other zoning items, the commission denied a request by the new owner of an old dermatology office on Cobb Street to allow the building to continue as a commercial space permanently.

Attorney Brad Sperr acquired the building after Dr. David Lockman retired. Sperr plans to convert the dermatology office into six smaller office spaces, running his law practice out of one of the offices and renting out the other five. However, his plan may have hit a roadblock last Tuesday when the ACC Commission unanimously rejected his request for a special use permit to operate his commercial business in a residential area.

The building at 728 Cobb St. was originally built as a residential home but has been used commercially since at least the 1970s, before Athens’ current zoning code was put into effect. That means whoever owns the building retains the legal right to operate a business there, even if the use is not conforming to Athens’ current code. Therefore, even without the commission’s approval, Sperr has the same “grandfathered-in” rights to operate a business on the property that Lockman had. However, without a legal and conforming status, Sperr may find it more difficult to apply

for the loans or tax credits he may need to help him restore and renovate the property, which needs significant work.

Without a special use permit, the “grandfathered” rights will vanish if the property ever reverts back to a residential home.

Residents of the Cobbham neighborhood strongly opposed the idea of having a permanent commercial space at this location. They spoke up against granting the special use permit, saying that it was unnecessary, that it violated ACC planning code and that it could be used as a precedent to allow further intrusion of commercial activity into residential areas.

Opposition from the Historic Cobbham Foundation and from notable Athenians like R.E.M.’s lawyer Bertis Downs and former mayor Gwen O’Looney encouraged commissioners to unanimously reject Sperr’s request, despite support from the ACC Planning Commission, which had recommended approving the special use in an 8-1 vote.

Commissioners also voted unanimously to raise rates in downtown parking decks to $2 an hour, up from the previous rate of $1.50. Going forward, the first hour of parking will be free, but even so, this change is estimated to provide an additional $313,000 a year in parking revenue. The Athens Downtown Development Authority, which proposed the parking rate increase to avoid spending $80,000 on new equipment that accepts coins, will continue to receive 40% of parking revenue to fund its operations, with the other 60% going into the local government’s general fund.

[Chris Dowd]

Thumbs Up for Eastside Townhouses

Cedar Creek residents remain opposed to a townhouse development off Gaines School Road despite some concessions made by the developer.

The ACC Planning Commission voted 6-1 to recommend approval of a rezoning and zoning code waivers for the proposal, which includes almost 10,000 square feet of commercial space and 69 townhouses, 10 with accessory dwelling units, on 7.5 acres.

The parcel was bought by Athens Regional Medical Center (now Piedmont Athens Regional) in 1998 with the intent of building an urgent care center there. At the time, residents obtained an “overlay corridor”—a special zoning district unique to one geographical area—limiting what could be built on the property. The hospital instead built an urgent care center on U.S. Highway 29 and sold the Gaines School property in 2015.

County planning staff supports the request because it “increases supply and provides a variety of housing not common on the Eastside”—specifically attached homes for sale, not for rent—and because planners said it would improve connectivity between neighborhoods, transit access and pedestrian safety.

Landscape architect Scott Haines of W&A Engineering said the latest version of the plan makes concessions to neighbors by restricting certain commercial uses, replacing a five- foot sidewalk with a 10- foot- wide multi-use path, and creating a buffer between the residential portion and the commercial parking lot.

Federal Building for Sale?

Federal employees, other government officials and journalists alike are suffering from DOGE-lash as Elon Musk’s cost- cutting team runs rampant and executive orders from President Trump are announced, revoked and held up in court on a daily basis.

One example is an announcement last week from the General Services Administration, which oversees federal properties, that hundreds of “noncore” buildings nationwide—including downtown Athens’ Robert G. Stephens Federal Building and 16 others in Georgia—had been identified for “divestment.” A day later, the list was deleted.

Is the federal building on the market? Like everything else involving the Trump administration, no one knows for sure.

“Some of our concerns were alleviated as a result of this discussion, and some of them were not,” said Kenneth Portier, president of the Cedar Creek Civic Association. In particular, he said residents want to keep the overlay district, and they want a traffic light at the intersection of Gaines School Road, Ponderosa Drive and an extension of Woody Lane. “If you’re trying to come out of Ponderosa [during morning rush hour] and turn left, good luck,” he said.

“Everyone knows there’s a traffic issue on this road; people go too fast on this road,” planning commissioner Kristen Morales said. “Is that enough to stop a development?”

For planning commissioners, the answer was no, but the ACC Commission will have the final say in April. [Blake Aued]

For years, AthensClarke County government leaders have been eyeing the mostly empty Stephens Building as a potential site for a new county courthouse. The current courthouse is more than a century old, overcrowded and can’t be expanded, so the plan is to build a new “judicial center,” then consolidate municipal government offices into the existing courthouse, and sell off other scattered city-owned properties on Dougherty Street, Satula Avenue and elsewhere.

This depends, though, on the feds being willing to part with the Stephens Building. Is it really for sale? “It’s not clear,” Mayor Kelly Girtz told Flagpole

However, Girtz said he remains in touch with the GSA about obtaining the property. “I met with them as recently as last week, and we’re putting together a proposal for them,” he said.

If 355 E. Hancock St. doesn’t work out, the backup plan is to build the judicial center on what is now county-owned parking lots north of Dougherty Street. Commissioners have said they intend to keep it downtown. [BA] f

Deep Impact

ANOTHER ASTEROID WILL HIT EARTH EVENTUALLY

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

It came from outer space! In the early morning of June 30, 1908, people in the remote Tunguska region of Siberia beheld an event of Biblical intensity. A speeding stone from the sky exploded miles above the heavily- forested landscape with a force many times more powerful than the atomic bomb that blasted the Japanese city of Hiroshima in World War II.

“The sky split in two, and high above the forest the whole northern part of the sky appeared to be covered in fire. At that

Just 12 years ago, Russia was again a magnet for meteors as a space stone estimated to be about 50 feet wide slammed into the atmosphere over the city of Chelyabinsk on Feb. 15, 2013. Again no one was killed by the fireball, but hundreds of people were injured as the meteor’s bludgeoning shock wave shattered windows and rattled buildings near the impact zone. Videos from automobile dashboard cameras and from citizens’ cell phones captured apocalyptic views of the meteor’s sudden appear-

moment I felt a great heat, as if my shirt had caught fire,” one man who witnessed the incident said afterward.

Luckily, no humans were killed during the Tunguska event, but trees were knocked down for hundreds of square miles around the epicenter of the aerial explosion. In his 1980 best- selling book Cosmos, astronomer Carl Sagan wrote that the explosion was caused by a fragment of a comet slamming into Earth’s atmosphere at thousands of miles per hour. Today most scientists say that the cosmic culprit was an asteroid that frightened the sparse population of the Tunguska region in 1908.

The object that exploded over remote Russia was small enough to fit inside a football stadium, but if it had disintegrated over a populated area, the damage could have been the worst natural disaster in history. Writer Isaac Asimov warned that if an object the size of the Tunguska space stone were to fall on New York City, “It would probably knock down every building on the island and large numbers across the rivers on either side, killing several million people within minutes of impact.”

ance and hypersonic fall. Witness Valentina Nikolayeva said the meteor made “an unreal light, which never happens in life. It happens at the end of the world.”

“ The crater is a tourist attraction where visitors can see that Mother Nature is our real boss.

So far, humanity has avoided an “end of the world” asteroid impact like the one that is believed to have doomed the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. That deadly space rock is thought to have been some six miles across and traveling at perhaps 50,000 miles per hour—twice the speed of an Apollo moon ship. It struck with an explosive power many times the combined megatonnage of all Earth’s existing nuclear weapons. About 50,000 years ago, a meteor made of iron and nickel gouged out a crater 4,000 feet wide in the Arizona desert. Today the crater is a tourist attraction where visitors can see that Mother Nature is our real boss.

On Feb. 12, 1947 Russia was again in the cosmic crosshairs as a large meteor shattered the morning calm with a thunderous roar as it impacted near Vladivostok. Artist P.J. Medvedev happened to be standing at a window while painting a view of his village when the space stone fell from the sky trailing a fiery tail. The artist painted the scene of the meteor over his sleepy village, and his rendering was used on a Russian commemorative stamp.

In February, the possibility of death from above was worldwide news when scientists revealed that a recently discovered asteroid had a slim chance of hitting Earth in 2032. After refining the data about the object’s orbit, a 2032 impact was ruled out, but astronomers are keeping their eyes on the skies and are constantly looking for threats from space. A robot spacecraft smacked into the surface of an asteroid three years ago to investigate the possibility of deflecting incoming space stones. Results were encouraging, but swatting away an incoming asteroid won’t be as easy as it seems in science fiction novels and movies. We’ve dodged a bullet from space so far, but there’s one out there with Earth’s name on it. f

The Chelyabinsk meteoroid created a fiery trail across the Russian sky in 2013.

BLAKE AUED

Crossover Day CATCHING UP ON THE ACTION IN THE GEORGIA LEGISLATURE

By Various Authors news@flagpole.com

Lawmakers passed a heap of bills by a key legislative deadline last Thursday, signing off on an accelerated income tax rate cut and a one- time rebate of $250–$500. But by the end of the day, many high-profile proposals were left on the cutting room floor for now. A late push in the House to legalize and regulate online sports betting never made it to the floor for a vote on Crossover Day Mar. 6, the last day for bills to pass one chamber and move on to the other.

WRONGFUL CONVICTIONS: A proposal to overhaul how the state compensates those who are wrongfully convicted in Georgia showed new signs of momentum but ultimately did not get a vote. “I’m definitely very disappointed. I think it’s a missed opportunity to improve the system,” said cosponsor Rep. Scott Holcomb (D- Atlanta).

House lawmakers did, however, overwhelmingly pass a measure that included individual compensation resolutions for five people who served time in prison after being wrongfully convicted. That measure, House Resolution 128, passed with a 151–12 vote and now moves to the Senate.

“Each of these men were denied their opportunity [for] an education, to build a career, relationships and family time, to seek a financial future for themselves and their loved ones,” said the bill’s lead sponsor, Rep. Katie Dempsey (R-Rome). “Compensation will not buy back those opportunities or those years, but it will help them move forward, and it is the least we can do,” she said.

Dempsey said afterwards that she is still hopeful that the bill overhauling the process can pass this year through legislative maneuvering. “It’s not over until day 40,” she said, referring to the final day of the legislative session on Apr. 4.

DEI BAN DIES: Another crossover dud was Tyrone Republican Sen. Marty Harbin’s Senate Bill 120, which seeks to ban K-12 schools and colleges from promoting, supporting or maintaining “any programs or activities that advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

subject to steep fines under a bill that passed the Senate. Northwest Georgia Republican Sen. Colton Moore’s Senate Bill 163 would allow people aggrieved by local gun regulations to recoup actual damages or up to $50,000, whichever is greater. That’s up from $100 under current law.

Moore indicated his bill was a response to a Savannah ordinance requiring people traveling with guns to keep them locked up and out of sight when the vehicle is parked. “When citizens in Northwest Georgia go to a place like Savannah, and there is a mayor there who has put in ordinances that violate their Second Amendment rights, my piece of legislation simply says that those citizens, just like your citizens, have a right of tort to sue those governments for violating those rights,” Moore said.

Sen. Derek Mallow (D- Savannah) said the ordinance was a reaction to more than 200 guns being stolen from unlocked cars in 2024. “Dr. King said you cannot legislate morality, you can only legislate behavior, and so what the

DON’T DOX: The Senate backed a bill that would make it a criminal offense for so- called doxxing, the act of maliciously posting someone’s personal information that places them at risk of being stalked or injured.

Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell) presented Senate Bill 27, which he said would provide some teeth for fighting a chilling crime that can put unsuspecting people in dangerous situations. He said the intent is not to infringe on an individual’s freedom of speech. “This bill takes a step in the right direction towards securing the digital safety of all Georgia citizens, and sends a clear message that Georgia will not tolerate online harassment,” Albers said.

If the doxxing bill becomes law, the first conviction would result in a misdemeanor. However, the penalties could increase to an aggravated felony if there is significant harm caused to the victims or with subsequent violations. A person convicted of aggravated doxxing will be sentenced to one to three years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

Sen. Sonya Halpern (D- Atlanta) said she supports SB 27 because neither a public official nor a private citizen should be fearful of having their personal information weaponized against them. She said the legislation strikes a “delicate balance of safeguarding freedom of speech while acknowledging the seriousness of the crime.”

BANNING THC FROM BEVERAGES: Three bills changing the way Georgia regulates hemp and medical cannabis were some of the only ones this session that didn’t fall cleanly along party lines, with Senate Republicans divided over expanding medical access to cannabis and members of both parties split over new regulations on recreational hemp products.

The controversial bill was on the calendar Thursday, but when Lt. Gov. Burt Jones banged his gavel to signal it was time to go home, the DEI bill had still not been voted on. Harbin said there were some changes that needed to be made, but declined to say what they were. He implied that the bill could come back in 2026, which is the second in this two- year legislative cycle. “We got down tonight, and we had our last proofing of the reading, and we said there’s some things we need to make right. This is a biennial. We’d rather do it right than do it halfway,” he said. Harbin also declined to say that the bill would not be grafted onto other legislation later this year.

While Crossover Day is mostly do or die, dead bills can sometimes be revived before the end of the session by attaching language from the deceased legislation onto a related bill. That could happen any time before Apr. 4, the last day of the session, also known as sine die. That’s what Sen. Nikki Merritt (D-Grayson) said she fears will happen. Still, Merritt said she would be smiling on her drive home from the Capitol. “As a minority party, we don’t get a lot of wins, and it’s really hard for us to push back once it comes out of [the rules committee] or it gets to the floor, we kind of never know,” she said. “So I do feel like this is a win for now, and it’s the power of getting the public engaged.”

GUTTING GUN ORDINANCES: Georgia cities and counties that attempt to institute gun safety measures could be

city of Savannah did was to try to create some recourse to have folks just lock their vehicles if they’re going to leave a loaded firearm in their vehicle,” he said.

The bill passed 33-23 along party lines. Senators rejected a Democrat- sponsored amendment to require guns to be locked up in places where minors may be present.

POP-UP PET SALES: A proposal to crack down on unscrupulous breeders sailed through the House. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Beth Camp (R- Concord), would ban the practice of selling dogs, cats and rabbits along the roadside, in parking lots, on sidewalks, at seasonal flea markets and in other areas that tend to be hotspots for unlicensed breeders who prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals in their care. Breeders would still be able to sell dogs, cats and rabbits from their home, business, a veterinarian’s office or other designated locations, like outside a police department.

Camp described the measure as a “consumer and animal protection bill” that creates a legal pathway for legitimate breeders and makes it harder for puppy mills to sell in Georgia. And she argued her bill might help ease the strain on Georgia’s public animal shelters.

“Often animals that are purchased on impulse in parking lots and later found to have poor health end up in animal shelters, which cost every single one of us taxwise,” Camp said.

The bill passed 161-13 Thursday and now heads to the Senate.

Senate Bill 220 passed in a contentious 39-17 vote after more than an hour of debate. It replaces the term “low-THC oil” with “medical cannabis” in the Georgia code, removes requirements that certain medical diagnoses like cancer or Parkinson’s disease be “severe or end stage,” and adds Lupus to the list of qualifying health conditions. It also removes an existing prohibition against vaping cannabis oil and raises the percentage of THC that medical cannabis products may contain from 5% to 50%. The bill was amended on the floor to include a provision allowing caregivers to pick up medical cannabis from pharmacies. Two bills aimed at strengthening hemp regulations in Georgia seek to limit recreational use of marijuana as the chamber simultaneously eased restrictions for medical use. Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick’s SB 33 subjects chemical compounds like delta-8 THC, delta10 THC, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and other cannabinoids to testing and labeling regulations. It passed in a 50-6 vote.

In her speech from the well, the Marietta Republican said her bill is aimed at cutting down on unregulated hemp products from China and other countries. “This bill is not a ban,” Kirkpatrick said. “It’s a consumer protection bill that is not intended to impact processors that are already testing and labeling their products appropriately. It’s intended to make sure that consumers buying these products are clear on what they’re buying.”

Senate Bill 254, sponsored by Bill Cowsert (R- Athens), seeks to impose new limits on THC-infused products after the Georgia Department of Agriculture raised the maximum amount of THC that can be included in a single beverage from 5 mg to 10 mg. Cowsert urged lawmakers to codify the original 5 mg serving size restrictions on THC-infused beverages, calling the higher-dose beverages a “loaded gun” and arguing that one 10 mg serving of THC was equivalent to four glasses of wine.

“Most states are limiting greatly the amount of THC that can be included in a beverage, or in a tincture, or any kind of lotions, or in gummies,” Cowsert said. “And the reason is to protect consumers—protect the public—from the psychoactive components of THC.”

The bill was ultimately amended on the floor by a narrow 29-27 vote to ban all THC-infused beverages, and passed the Senate in a 42-14 vote. f

Stanley Dunlap, Maya Homan, Jill Nolin and Ross Williams contributed to this article, which originally appeared at georgiarecorder.com.

Athens Rep. Houston Gaines (center) watches the scoreboard on Crossover Day Mar. 6.

HOUSE PHOTO OFFICE

Black Entrepreneurs

By Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com

Due to centuries of slavery and Jim Crow segregation in the South, the Athens economy remains deeply unequal with persistent wealth and income gaps for Black residents, women and other groups compared to white men. Systemic challenges like unequal access to capital still exist for many Americans even as President Donald Trump dismantles diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across the country.

While the problem of structural racism probably won’t go away anytime soon, this gloomy picture doesn’t have to be the end of the story for aspiring Black business owners in Athens.

In a new documentary produced by the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement called Changing the Narrative: Stories of Black and Minority Entrepreneurs, AADM’s Executive Director Mokah Jasmine Johnson interviews four Black business owners in and around Athens who have succeeded despite the obstacles. These entrepreneurs—including Adrienne Chappell, the owner of Chalises Heavenly Inspired; Marcus “Nony” Lawrence of Nony’s Cheesecakes; Maxim Watkins, the owner of Food Truck Builders A-Z; and Barnard Sims of Barnard’s Hair Salon—have some advice for Black Athenians who are just starting out in the business world.

“If I had to do it all over again, the first thing I would do is find a mentor,” Lawrence said during a panel discussion following a screening of the film at Ciné Feb. 28. “Get somebody who’s made the mistakes, who’s dealt with the successes and the failures so that you don’t have to deal with the costs of the failures.”

In the documentary, Lawrence said that while he sometimes struggles to gain access to the capital he needs to expand, most of the challenges he faces in business are the same struggles any restaurant owner would

go through, such as finding consistency in the kitchen and growing a customer base. Similarly, when Johnson asked Chappell about the challenges she faces in managing her line of skin care products, Chappell talked about the challenge of learning the large number of different skills an entrepreneur needs in order to be successful, such as marketing, social media, production, purchasing, keeping the books and tracking inventory. “The whole business operation can be challenging and overwhelming trying to do it alone,” she said.

After 12 years, Chappell was able to hire her first employee. Now, Chappell wants to give back to her community. She said she hopes that she can use her Winterville store as a resource for other Black entrepreneurs who are just starting out. “I think us entrepreneurs coming together, building a pool of resources within each other to tap into [can benefit us all],” Chappell said.

To that end, Chappell has been offering shelf space in her store to other business owners. These partners in turn encourage their friends and supporters to come out, helping their customers discover both lines of products. She’s also started an in-person meetup group at her store where entrepreneurs can share resources, teach each other skills and give advice.

Clarke County Board of Education member LaKeisha Gantt, owner of MindSprings Counseling and Consulting. Panelists and moderator Tamika Money spoke more about the issue of structural racism.

“There’s a good ol’ boys’ club. They go out to dinner, they have drinks, and we’re not invited to that. You may learn about [a government contract] six months in advance; I don’t learn about it until two weeks into the [request for proposals], and I have to hurry up to try and get it together,” Money said. “There has been a system put in place advancing certain businesses over others, and we’re talking about having that over centuries.”

my hat’s off to you. It took us six years to fix our leasing policy [which had been criticized as discriminatory]. It took us four and a half years to get our [women and minorityowned business support] program, and kinks still need to be worked out,” Davenport said. “I just try to keep it real to the community: The possibility of an ordinance getting done [by next month] is zero.”

That’s not to say that the local government can’t do anything to support Black business owners. First, Davenport wants the ACC Commission to issue a formal statement of support for racial equity and economic justice. Going further, he wants to continue reexamining government contracting policies to ensure that businesses owned by women and people of color get an equitable share of government contracts going forward.

Athens- Clarke County Commissioner Patrick Davenport, the operations manager of Peachy Green Clean Cooperative, was also included on the panel along with

Money asked Davenport for an update on a racial equity resolution and hypothetical ordinance that may come up for a vote of the ACC Commission next month. The purpose of the legislation is to help reverse past inequities, but Davenport said he doubts whether it will be ready in time.

“If you get an ordinance done in 60 days,

While supportive of government efforts to fight structural racism, other panelists lamented the current political climate and didn’t seem to expect the government to be a significant ally going forward. “We’re watching the progress of the past 60 years that our ancestors have fought for being snatched away in front of our eyes. What I hope people get from a documentary like this is that DEI [diversity, equity and inclusion] could be taken away, but DIY [do it yourself] is enduring,” said Sims, author of the book The Southern Awakening: A Black Man’s Guide for Liberating the Rural South Lawrence, who grew up in public housing in East Athens, said that he wants the success of Nony’s Cheesecakes to be a positive example for the Black youth in Athens. “I want them to see that you can come from a place like Nellie B… and you don’t have to succumb to the streets, gangs. You don’t have to become a rapper,” he said. “My biggest goal [is] to be an example for that next generation that you can make it, regardless of your situation.” f

From Africa to Athens

CREATURE COMFORTS’ NEW BEER BENEFITS BLACK BREWERS

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

There are 10,000 craft breweries in the United States, yet just 1% are Black-owned, and 2% are owned by women. Athens brewery Creature Comforts aims to help close the disparity with the release of a new beer brewed with African grain, with proceeds going to train aspiring Black brewmasters.

“In this big, beautiful industry I am so proud to work in, there is not enough representation” for women or people of color, said Fenwick Broyard, vice president of commercial operations for Creature Comforts.

The special release, Fonio, is part of Creature Comforts’ Brew For One series, started in 2017, when head cellarman Bob Weckback died, to provide a college fund for his son. It is named for a type of grain grown in West Africa that makes up 20% of the beer’s mash bill (grains that provide flavor and the sugar that yeast turns into alcohol).

While little-known in the U.S., fonio is a vital subsistence crop in several African nations due to its drought tolerance, resistance to pests and ability to grow without fertilizer, according to UGA genetics professor Jeff Bennetzen. Those qualities also make it a grain that breweries are looking to as the cost of importing wheat and barley grows.

“Ukraine is a war zone, and Canada is suffering from wildfires and potentially tariffs. That’s where the majority of our grain comes from,” said Isaiah Smith, cofounder of Our Culture Brewing in Atlanta, which collaborated with Creature Comforts on Fonio. Smith participated in a panel discussion with Broyard and others at a Feb. 28 release event.

try—one that brings in more creativity and attracts new customers.

The unique backstory of a beer like Fonio also sets it apart from other products, according to Smith. “It gives people more reason to engage, other than the beer tastes good. A lot of beer tastes good,” he said.

Garrett Oliver, the head brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery, started the MJJ Foundation in 2020, after reflecting on the COVID19 pandemic and the murder of George Floyd. Oliver said that he realized he wasn’t getting job applications from Black brewers because he was requiring certification and experience, and where would they get it?

“What it did was erect a barrier so high, no African American could possibly get over it,” Oliver said. So far, the foundation has sent 58 grant recipients to brewing school, he said.

Buying fonio helps struggling African farmers and may lead to the grain eventually becoming a cash crop. Buying Fonio helps the Michael J. Jackson Foundation, which sends Black grant recipients to brewing school.

One of them is Robert Young III, who founded Tapped 33 Brewery in Augusta. Young was a homebrewer making beer on his porch, but did not know how to break into the industry until he came across the Michael J. Jackson Foundation online. His first application was rejected, but he was later awarded a grant that sent him to a top brewing school in Germany.

At a time when many companies are dismantling their diversity, equity and inclusion programs under pressure from the Trump administration, Young emphatically described MJJ as “not a charity.” Instead, he said it’s a service to the craft beer indus -

Oliver named the foundation for one of his mentors, the influential British beer and whiskey writer Michael Jackson, who helped popularize different beer styles. Jackson was “an anti-racist” who “made sure Black people were esteemed and respected in the industry,” Oliver said.

He discovered fonio at a museum fundraiser held by The Roots drummer Questlove, where he met a chef from Senegal. “When we made beer with fonio, the beer was spectacular,” Oliver said. “It had all these beautiful aromatic qualities,” like white wine and tropical fruit.

So why isn’t fonio more widely used already? “They [Big Ag] don’t want you to know,” he said. “They own your senator.”

While Oliver worries about driving up the price of fonio and putting it out of reach of Africans, as well as the corporate agriculture industry snuffing out its production, the potential benefit for small farmers and the environment outweighs those concerns. “If 5% of beer were [made with] fonio, you’d change so much for so many people, millions of people,” he said. “And the beer would taste better.” f

Isaiah Smith

Pretty Boy

YOUTHFUL ATMOSPHERE AND EXPLOSION OF FLAVORS

By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com

PRETTY BOY (247 Prince Ave., 706-8500938, prettyboyathens.com): It was a long wait for Kenny Nguyen’s Vietnamese- witha- twist restaurant to open. Then it was a long wait for me to get to it—sorry! Life gets in the way sometimes.

It’s inevitable, given the clientele (young Millennials, old Gen Zs) and the East Asian focus of the food, to compare it to Puma Yu’s, but they have different vibes. Pretty Boy is a little younger in its feel and its audience. If you are grumpy about sitting right next to loud young people scrolling on their phones and talking about their vacation plans, it may not be the place for you. The prices are, on the whole, lower, especially if you go for happy hour, when there are deals on food as well as drinks. It’s also a bit less polished. For example, you may end up with both Japanese and Chinese chopsticks on your table, a decision that seems meant to evoke a casual atmosphere but doesn’t quite work. Drinks are an emphasis, and ones like the Patty Pistachio (pistachio- washed vodka, shochu, Apero Iberico, lemon, palm sugar) are totally pleasant but fade quickly from memory.

ation that uses egg and an aioli made with Laughing Cow cheese to balance unctuousness against the delicacy of the rice paper structure, the meaty local mushrooms and plenty of red onion, basil and garlic. One of the best things about Pretty Boy is that nearly everything on the menu is glutenfree, and a lot of it is vegetarian or vegan, yet a gluten-loving meat-eater can have a great time without noticing what’s missing. The fried imperial rolls, arriving extremely hot, use local mushrooms, tofu and glass noodles in place of pork, but they don’t feel like a copout. They’re just as oily as the meaty version would be.

Pretty Boy asks that you make reservations most nights, but you can usually snag a seat at the chef’s counter without one, and Monday is walk-ins only. Said chef’s counter sounds fancier than it is. It’s low, not high like a bar, and there’s not much of a view of what’s going on in the kitchen. The tables are a nicer experience, but you do have to put up with Resy.

When the food hits, it hits right on: playful, creative, punchy, gutsy. The coconut-braised spare ribs are a great example, brushed with a sticky, spicy, sour, sweet sauce, then broiled to caramelize the outsides before being nestled into a puddle of zingy cilantro-lime sauce. They aren’t afraid of flavor, and the way the texture goes from chewy outsides to gooey insides is a fun little journey. Similarly, the Viet Street Corn, over in the smaller plates section, is as delicious as the best elote I’ve had: absolutely buried beneath a shower of fried garlic, braised in coconut milk, with hints of chili oil. It’s got the chewiness and sweetness of the corn, crisp accents on top, tanginess and creaminess in the sauce. It is also a true mess to eat, something that is true of many dishes here.

The third major highlight is the mushroom rice paper pizza—a light, layered cre-

More traditional dishes, like the spicy beef pho, are often less successful. The broth is too heavy on aromatics, and although the eye of round is nice, it all feels less satisfying than what you can get at many a less fancy restaurant and for a good bit less. The crunchy chicken salad—a big bowl that combines sliced papaya, pickled carrots, cabbage, scallion, mint, basil, fried shallots and pistachios, adding a sesame cracker on the side and dressing it all with plenty of nuoc cham—is totally good, but it also feels like something you could throw together at home. It’s not better than the imagined sum of its ingredients. The salmon crudo, a dish a lot of people seem to be into, goes too hard on salt for me. The fried chicken skins, an Instagrammable appetizer, are much too big a serving, even for two. By the time you’re halfway through, you’re tired of eating them. Dessert is worth your time and in some ways shows what the restaurant does best: an everything-and- the-kitchen- sink attitude when it comes to flavors. A dragonfruit panna cotta—no longer on the menu and unfortunately served in a Mason jar—and a bright green pandan bundt cake both featured the same topping of pineapple compote and nougatine, speedrunning you through softness, crunchiness, silkiness, gooeyness, sweet, sour and faintly bitter. Do your best to scoop everything into a single bite, chomp through it and bliss out.

Pretty Boy is open for dinner 5–10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5–11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

WHAT’S UP: Yossi Kitchen opened a small cafe inside the Prince Market at 100 Prince Ave., serving Indian plates, bowls and wraps. Redstone Market & Butcher, off Highway 129 at 2531 Brock Road, is a new market and modern take on an old country store with a hot bar and to-go meals. The Tallahassee, FL-based country bar Duke’s and Dottie’s has opened an Athens location at 346 E Broad St. Wayne Bradberry, the longtime fruit and vegetable vendor who set up on North Chase Street on the Salvation Army property, died at the beginning of February. Keep an eye on the Grub Notes blog at flagpole.com for the latest restaurant news. f

Fawney Rig

LOCAL IRISH FOLK-ROCKERS JOIN IN ST. PADDY’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

Someone walking by you on the street drops a ring out of their pocket, and it looks very valuable. Before you can pick it up, they quickly return to recover it, and dramatically exclaim how happy they are that they didn’t lose such precious jewelry. You comment on how nice it is, and they offer to sell it to you—they were just heading to the pawn shop. After paying a steep but seemingly reasonable price, you find out the ring is worthless. That’s a fawney rig.

OK, the term’s origin scenario might be outdated, but Athens’ own Fawney Rig is not. The local folk-rock project is led by the band’s self-described lilting voice of Claire Campbell (Hope For Agoldensummer) and the seasoned growl of Nathan Peters (Beat Up). The full lineup includes Campbell playing guitar and the singing saw; Nathan on

life have required an outlet for painful, angry and alienated feelings. However, growing through the current troubled times, he’s come to understand the need to create music just for the joy of it. Fawney Rig holds space for a positive communal experience despite an awareness of the negatives inherent in being human.

“The depth of Irish music contains the experiences of a whole history of struggle, but also delights in the commonplace. There’s a song for every occasion, and the stories are endlessly entertaining. The humor and raw emotion in equal measure is something that has always moved me. If I can share a bit of that, all the better. I’ve always believed that punk rock and Irish music share common themes that compliment each other when combined,” says Nathan.

tenor banjo, electric guitar, mandolin and whistle; Miki Lu Peters, partner of Nathan, playing accordion; David Hecht on bazouki, bodhrán and whistle; Brent Davenport on bass; and Dan Whitman playing drums.

“Miki Lu and I have been fans of Irish music since we were living in Chicago in the ’90s. We played neighborhood Irish sessions, céilí danced at the Chicago Irish Heritage Center,” says Nathan. “The seeds for Fawney Rig came from the passing of some of the greats in recent years—Shane MacGowan, Sinéad O’Connor, Delores O’Riordan—and the realization that we could contribute to bringing these sounds to new audiences.”

The band plays a wide variety of songs, from Celtic classics to foot- stomping jigs and sweet ballads, covering topics from love to war. Covers include The Clancy Brothers, The Pogues, The Dubliners and more. However, where Fawney Rig really shines is its fun, inclusive and interactive live performances. The audience is provided with lyric sheets to join in.

“What I’ve always admired in Irish music is the common sharing of tunes, and the warm and inviting welcome we’ve always received in sessions in the States and Ireland. I think it gives audiences something to take with them that sets our show apart from the standard band/audience expectation, the opportunity to sing along and experience the magic of these songs in your own way,” says Nathan.

Immersed in the punk scene and fronting the punk band Beat Up, Nathan says that the things that have mattered in his

Join us for the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Bash at The Foundry on Saturday, March 15th from 4 PM-11 PM. Family friendly entertainment, Irish food/drink specials, and more! Presented by Aubrey Entertainment.

295 East Dougherty St. • 706–549–7020

Naturally, St. Patrick’s Day is a fitting time for Fawney Rig to shine. The band has multiple shows planned over the extended weekend, in addition to traveling around Georgia and North Carolina. On Friday, Mar. 15, Fawney Rig will play a free show at the Front Porch Bookstore in Winterville at 6 p.m. People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Then on Monday, Mar. 17, the group will perform two dinner sets (6 p.m. and 8 p.m.) at Hendershot’s. It’s $15 for the show, or $30 for the show and dinner.

Fawney Rig will also join the celebrations for Aubrey Entertainment’s St. Patrick’s Day Bash at The Foundry on Mar. 15. The familyfriendly music festival opens doors at 4 p.m. and goes until 11 p.m. with nonstop entertainment scheduled: Repent at Leisure (5:15 p.m.), Carpenter Academy of Irish Dance (6:30 p.m.), The Kids on the Mountain (7:10 p.m.), Thick Lizzy (7:50 p.m.), Fawney Rig (8:45 p.m.) and The Knockouts playing a Pogues tribute set (9:55 p.m.).

Athentic Brewing Co. will have a St. Patrick’s Day Party on Mar. 14 beginning at 5 p.m. with Celtic pub music, Irish dance performances, a new beer release and food trucks. Then Terrapin Beer Co. will celebrate on Mar. 15 with green beer, games and a tie-dye station from 12–10 p.m. If you’re looking for something a little different from music and beer, the Bombshells of Dance FX will perform a themed dance routine titled “Get Lucky” at the 40 watt Club on Mar. 17 at 7:30 p.m. No matter how you choose to celebrate, there are a variety of options over the weekend. f

March 15

March 22

SUNDAYS AT 2 P.M.

April 12

April 19

one of our student guides for a conversational half-hour tour. SATURDAYS AT NOON March 16 March 23 March 30 April 6 April 13 April 27

March 29

April 5

April 26

live music calendar

Tuesday 11

Dancz Center for New Music

6 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

CONTEMPORARY CHAMBER

ENSEMBLE Performing new compositions, including pieces from the 30x30x30 Project, a national call-for-scores hosted by SOLI Ensemble, for which UGA’s CCE is a partner ensemble.

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.”

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

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

UGA GLEE CLUBS & UNIVERSITY CHORUS Thom Dixon

conducting Adolphus Hailstork’s choral/orchestral cantata, “I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes.”

Normal Bar

8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com

OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday. Nowhere Bar

9 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga THE WAYMORES Country and western duo from Georgia. Ramsey Hall

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

BULLDOG BRASS SOCIETY

UGA’s premiere graduate brass quintet.

Wednesday 12

Athentic Brewing Co.

7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday.

Chibugan Cafe

2 p.m. 706-424-4286

RC OUTLAW COWBOY Country and gospel singer with over four decades of experience. Creature Comforts Brewery

Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket. net

MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-HOTS

Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s. (6 p.m.)

El Paso Tacos & Tequila

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

KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY Every Wednesday.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

HOLOGRAM Viceral and vivid hardcore out of D.C.

MULTIPLE MIGGS Local thrash band.

BIG TROUBLE Hardcore punk and thrash supergroup featuring members of Weaponized Flesh, Snuki, Pervert and Apparition.

Hendershot’s

7 p.m. (sign-ups). FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com

BEATS, RHYMES AND LIFE

OPEN MIC Emcees, poets, rappers

and freestylers of all styles are invited to perform with the backing band playing the tempo of their choice.

MaiKai Kava Lounge

7:30 p.m. (sign-ups). FREE! www. instagram.com/bulaatmaikai

MAIKAI OPEN MIC Share your music, comedy and poetry every Wednesday.

Nowhere Bar

7 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10. www.instagram.com/nowherebar athensga

GENUINE MUSTARD Internet folk punk from Lafayette, LA.

THE WHILE Dynamic ensemble navigating the mood swings of life with garage rock, power pop, psych and beyond.

HAGEN No info available.

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

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

FACULTY ARTIST SERIES Featuring professor of double bass, Milton Masciadri, a third generation player who was already achieving musical accolades by his teen years.

Thursday 13

Earth Fare

2 p.m. www.earthfare.com

RC OUTLAW COWBOY Country and gospel singer with over four decades of experience.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Primordial Void Presents. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flickertheatre andbar.com

CHAIRS Enigmatic local recording project that pulls from shoegaze and post-punk influences.

OHMU Winston Parker’s ambient compositions are simultaneously meditative and chaotic, invoking apocalyptic feelings at times but not without an element of hope.

RACECAR 44 New Athens indie band featuring members of Picture Show.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $18–20. www.georgiatheatre.com

COSMIC CHARLIE Grateful Dead cover band that adds its own flair to the classics.

The Globe

7:30–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ globe.athens

MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-HOTS Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.

Hendershot’s 7:30–11 p.m. $7 (adv.), $10. www. hendershotsathens.com

SABACHA DANCE SOCIAL DJ

L.A. Darius leads a Latin dance party with salsa, bachata, merengue and cha-cha-cha. An hour-long lesson is followed by open dancing. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $20. pac. uga.edu

LUX ETERNA The Hodgson Singers spring concert will feature Morten Lauridsen’s “Lux Aeterna,” a multi-movement choral/orchestral work that is set to Latin texts that ruminate on the theme of light.

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar athensga

INTENSION Alternative rock from Monroe inspired by bands like Smashing Pumpkins, Deftones and Tool.

FLORENCE CARDIGAN Local group mixing funk, punk and jazzinspired indie rock.

ESTIMATED PRINCIPLES Alternative rock from Augusta. Ramsey Hall 5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

THE SOUTHERN WINDS Graduate chamber music ensemble representing some of the finest instrumental musicianship on campus.

JOE CAT Athens-based Americana singer-songwriter and troubadour joined by Klay Whitehead on drums.

Dancz Center for New Music

6 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

COMPOSITION AREA A recital of new works in collaboration with the UGA Bassoon and Saxophone studios.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

YAWNI Progressive pop music from a psychedelicate weirdo. FEVER FAWN Project of Atlanta singer-songwriter-producer Taegen Dawkins.

MAGNUS No info available.

VFW Post 2872

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/vfw2872

CHRIS HAMPTON BAND Athens-based band performing a variety of country, western and rock dance music with line dancing during the breaks.

Saturday 15

40 Watt Club

6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $50. www.40watt.com

BRIGHT EYES Indie rock band formed by Conor Oberst in the ’90s touring its newest album, Five Dice, All Threes

The World Famous 10 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous athens

SHID Philadelphia band that harnesses the intensity of punk along with the lush surrealism of psychedelia to display a dynamic performance that is equally raw, macabre and ethereal.

WRITHE Ambient, coldwave and darkwave from Atlanta. PLAN B Local logisticians.

Friday 14

ATHICA

Sonic Space. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 suggested donation. www.athica.org

JOHN KIRAN FERNANDES & DAVID MCCOY Ambient duo performance featuring Fernandes’ clarinet drenched in reverb and McCoy’s guitar filtered through a variety of effects pedals for an otherworldly sound.

RYAN ROUX Creator of layered psychedelic folk music, with contributions from John Kiran Fernandes.

The Classic Center 7 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com

UNITED STATES NAVY BAND, SEA CHANTERS AND CRUISERS

Three of the Navy Band’s ensembles join forces for a performance of traditional wind band music, Broadway hits, pop tunes and patriotic favorites.

Classic Citiva

4:20 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ classiccitiva

The Foundry

6 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $25 (adv.), $30. www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA THE RANDALL BRAMBLETT

BAND This established Georgia singer-songwriter’s Southerntinged music pulls from a variety of influences.

WORKHORSES OF THE ENTERTAINMENT/RECREATIONAL

INDUSTRY Acoustic, melodic, eclectic, modern folk rock featuring Rob Keller, Sunny Ortiz, Ben Reynolds and William Tonks.

Hendershot’s

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.), $12. www.hendershots athens.com

SATELLITE PILOT Psychedelic indie pop band from Loveland, CO clashing quiet introspection with explosive manic pop.

MATT KNOX For fans of Elvis

Costello, friends of Dorothy, and Men of the Cloth, maximalist power-pop meets a confused upbringing.

WOMEN IN STEM Musicians Ella, Finn and Sam developed their striking sound with an indie rock influence and a call from science herself.

Nowhere Bar

9 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga

MILE FROM MEADOW Threepiece band from Monroe playing originals and covers.

Ramsey Hall

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

GUEST ARTIST SERIES Featuring pianist Jennifer Hayghe.

folktronica to bossanova to create “music with umph.”

MARIE MARIE ’60s pop-inspired group in the songwriting vein of The Beatles and Brian Wilson. THE FALLING SPIKES No info available.

Ciné

Athens Goth Night Dance Party. 9 p.m. $10. www.athenscine.com

DJ CROWE DJ Steven Crowe. DJ TOMB LILY Adria Stembridge of Tears For The Dying spins deathrock, post-punk, goth and more. TWIN POWERS Local DJ who is also a member of DJ trio Booty Boyz.

DJ GOTH DAD Dustin Gannon of Vision Video leads a dance party spinning goth, post-punk, ’80s, Halloween music and more. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8:30 p.m. (doors). $12. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

SKYWAY 61 Electrifying rock band with powerful energy from Tennessee.

WYLD STALEYZ Self-described hot blooded, ball clenching power rock band from Athens.

THE COFFIN DWELLERS Grunge rock trio from Atlanta that just released its debut single, “put the car in park.”

The Foundry 4 p.m. (doors). $10 (adv.), $15. www. facebook.com/AubreyEntertainment

AthensGA

REPENT AT LEISURE Celtic pub band playing “Irish rock,” including traditional, punk, modern and original Celtic music. (5:15 p.m.)

THE KIDS ON THE MOUNTAIN Irish trad trio from Athens featuring twin fiddles, trichordo bouzouki, tenor banjo and mandolin. (7:10 p.m.)

HURRAY FOR THE RIFF RAFF

Alternative folk/Americana project of Alynda Segarra.

Athentic Brewing Co.

6–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

BLAKGRAZ Playing songs from a multitude of genres like rock, pop, rap, folk and jazz.

Bishop Park

Athens Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmers market.net

DAVE MARTIN Local guitarist (The PG Show, Astral Summer) performing fingerstyle and Travis-picking arrangements of popular songs and originals, plus looper jams and folk tunes. (8 a.m.)

LIBBALOOPS Electronic musician and looping artist who loves to be silly and get “loopy doopy.” (10 a.m.)

Bolo Bolo Athens

7 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/bolo. bolo.ath

LIZ FARRELL Jeff Buckleyinspired vocals accompanied by intricate ukulele.

ELLI PERRY A melancholy mesmerist, a ballsy chanteuse or a howling one-woman vocal wrecking crew whose style ranges from Southern Gothic blues and folk to experimental alternative rock and roll.

JUILA BARFIELD Young singersongwriter with roots in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains.

Buvez 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.instagram.com/buvez_athens

RITIKA Songwriter and producer whose unique sound ranges from

THICK LIZZY All-star Thin Lizzy cover band with members of Hayride, Shehehe, Wyld Staleyz and more. (7:50 p.m.)

FAWNEY RIG Irish folk-rock project featuring vocals by Claire Campbell (Hope For Agoldensummer) and Nathan Peters (Beat Up) backed by friends to play Celtic classics, foot-stomping jigs, sweet ballads and even a few rockers. (8:45 p.m.)

THE KNOCKOUTS Pogues tribute set. (9:55 p.m.)

Front Porch Bookstore 6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook

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

Hendershot’s 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

ROSE HOTEL “Bedroom-rock” alter ego of Atlanta songwriter Jordan Reynolds. AVA YEAGER Singer-songwriter. PONDGORL Athens-based artist Laila Li McCleery joins genre-bending friends in a band of beautiful, harmonious DIY glory. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $45–89. pac.uga.edu

LES ARTS FLORISSANTS & THÉOTIME LANGLOIS DE SWARTE The renowned Baroque musical ensemble is joined by violinist Théotime Langlois de Swarte

Bright Eyes will play at the 40 Watt Club on Saturday, Mar. 15.

in a performance commemorating the anniversary of the original publication of Vivaldi’s Opus 8, Nos. 1-4. Memorial Park

Administration Building

AFMDS Contra Dance. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7–10 p.m. (dance). FREE! (17 & under), $10–12. www. athensfolk.org

BLUE MOON STRING BAND Live music for a contra dance hosted by Athens Folk Music and Dance Society.

No. 3 Railroad Street

6 p.m. www.3railroad.org

RUPERT WATES London-based musician who creates melodic folk music.

Nowhere Bar

9 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga

JERRY GARCIA BAND COVER

BAND Formed in Athens in 2012, JGBCB focuses on spirited covers of classic songs pulled exclusively from the repertoire of Garcia’s longrunning side project to the Grateful Dead.

Oak House Distillery

7 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery.com

RON HENDON Local saxophonist. work.shop

Techno Speakeasy Athens. 9 p.m.–3 a.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ technospeakeasyathens

MEOW MIXX A techno rave themed around cats benefitting Athens Area Humane Society and Athenspets. Featuring music from Ksquared, Viv. awesome, Karezza and more.

The World Famous

10 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ theworldfamousathens

SOOT Nashvile band borrowing from traditions of manic post-hardcore and Southern metal to gentler ambient and folk sounds.

COMA THERAPY Muscular, dark post-punk influenced by goth and no wave.

BUICE Self-described Atlanta freakcore, conscious prog rock and skronk.

Sunday 16

ACC Library

Live at the Library. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

ORGANICALLY PROGRAMMED

Oliver Domingo’s electronic spacethemed act, which utilizes primitive drum machines and synthesizers to create disco-pop, jazz and easy listening inspired compositions. Buvez

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

CRY BABY New band.

LUNAR GATEWAY Atlanta-based post-punk, garage rock band that started in Los Angeles.

STATE ALCHEMIST New wave revival.

The Globe

4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens

TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION

Easy listening traditional Irish music. Hendershot’s

7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

VANSPLAINER Garage rock band.

Album release show!

No. 3 Railroad Street

3 p.m. www.3railroad.org

WOODY GARRISON AND FRIENDS Singer-songwriter playing psychedelic Americana at its finest.

The World Famous

9 p.m. $5. www.facebook.com/the worldfamousathens

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

NOTHING IF ANYTHING Local heavy emo, post-hardcore band.

BUSTER CHROME Macon-based four-piece alternative rock band.

Monday 17

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

CRYIN GOSLING Soft Georgia boy emo.

CHEAP CITY Indie dance-punk band.

JOSEY Athens-based indie pop artist, incorporating audience participation and off-kilter comedy into her sets.

AUDREY KEY No info available.

Hendershot’s St. Paddy’s Dinner and a Show. 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. $15 (show only), $30 (dinner included). www.hendershotsathens.com

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

Tuesday 18

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. Georgia Theatre Rooftop

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10–12. www.georgiatheatre.com CAM SMITH AND THE LAWLESS High-energy Southern rock and country band based in Athens that blends the grit of classic rock with the soul of country music.

MURPHY’S LAW Folkternative tunes out of Athens. THE WRAPS Dynamic local rock act with sounds reminiscent of the Drive-By Truckers. Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets from his catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.”

Normal Bar

8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com

OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.

Down the Line

3/19 Red Oak String Band (Creature Comforts Brewery)

3/19 Lightwatch, Everyday Dogs (Georgia Theatre Rooftop)

3/19 Concert Band, University Band (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall)

3/20 of Montreal, Sunset Honor Unit (40 Watt Club)

3/20 Colby Acuff (Georgia Theatre)

3/20 Mary & The Hot Hotty-Hots (The Globe)

3/20 Anoushka Shankar (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall)

3/20 Cult of Riggonia, Brooms of Fantasia, C.G.I. Joe & the Alien E-mails (Ciné)

3/20 Lane Marie, Mina Roth, Cas Cleo, Majeska (Flicker Theatre & Bar)

3/20 Oxystar, The Cleaners (Nowhere Bar) f

JEWELRY,

event calendar

Wednesday 12

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

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: Child Safety Seat Check (Beech Haven Baptist Church) ACCPD and Safe Kids Athens will help parents and guardians install car seats properly. 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. FREE! robert.schulte@accgov. com

EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, art and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www.athens farmersmarket.net

FILM: Food and Country (Ciné) Screening of the SXSW and Sundance documentary exploring the human connections and ecological systems shaping food today with a guest panel. 5 p.m. $5–15. calendar.uga.edu/event/food-andcountry-film

FILM: Swing Kids (UGA Miller Learning Center) Screening of the 1993 film about a group of teenagers who listen to banned music in Nazi Germany. Athens Antifascist Film Festival. 7 p.m. FREE! libs. uga.edu

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

GAMES: Music Bingo (B&B Theatres) Join in to play music bingo. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.bbtheatres. com

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia

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: K–Pop Night For Teens (Oconee County Library) Drop in to decorate photocard sleeves, enjoy snacks, enter to win K–Pop themed prizes and more. Ages 12–18. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

MEETINGS: Athens Psychedelic Society (740 Prince Avenue Bldg 14) Meet like-minded individuals interested in topics related to expanded states of consciousness. 6 p.m. FREE! Athens Psychedelic Society on Facebook

Thursday 13

ART: Opening Reception (Lyndon House Arts Center) The 50th Juried Exhibition will be on view with juror Michael Rooks in attendance and awards distributed. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/Lyndon HouseArts

CLASSES: Athens Research Sources (ACC Library) Learn how to enhance your research of the history of Athens through an exploration of local books, archival collections and public documents. 5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

CLASSES: Adobe Photoshop for Beginners (ACC Library) Learn how to resize, crop, repair and adjust photos. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

CLASSES: Lunar Eclipse Cord Cutting Ceremony (Shakti Power Yoga) Release negative energy. 7:15 p.m. $35. www.shaktiyoga athens.com

EVENTS: Oakland Cemetery

Adult Day Trip (Howard Park & Community Center) Depart from Athens for a tour of Atlanta’s iconic cemetery. Ages 18 & up. Registration required. 9 a.m. $15 (ACC residents), $22.50 (non-residents). accgovga.myrec.com

EVENTS: FOL Spring Book Sale (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks with proceeds benefiting the Oglethorpe Co. Friends of the Library. Mar. 13–14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mar. 15, 10 a.m.–2p.m. www. oconeelibraryfriends.org

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

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

GAMES: Adult Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) A gaming session for players of all skill levels. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this weekly game of chance. Thursdays, 5 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

GAMES: March Sadness Trivia (Buvez) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil of UnPhiltered. 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ unphilteredtrivia

KIDSTUFF: Open Play (Oconee County Library) Drop in for playtime that’s focused on encouraging early literacy and brain building. Ages 5 & under. 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

KIDSTUFF: STEAM Thursday: 5 Famous Figures (Bogart Library) Learn about five famous female STEAM figures. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: LEGO Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in to free build and create, or do one of the fun LEGO challenges. Ages 5–12.

Thursdays, 3:30–5:30. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (UGA Special Collections Library)

Author Richard Hutto will discuss his new work about heiresses of the Gilded Age, The Countess and the Nazis. 5:30 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu

MEETINGS: Coffee Hour (Oconee County Library) Drop in to drink some coffee, while supplies last. Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

Friday 14

ART: Morning Mindfulness (Georgia Museum of Art) Instructor-led meditation, movement and mindfulness techniques in the galleries. Email to RSVP. 9:30 a.m. FREE! gmoatours@uga.edu

ART: Opening Reception (OCAF) The “Youth Art Month” exhibition will be on view. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.ocaf.com

EVENTS: FOL Spring Book Sale (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks with proceeds benefiting the Oglethorpe Co. Friends of the Library. Mar. 13–14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mar. 15, 10 a.m.–2p.m. www. oconeelibraryfriends.org

EVENTS: St. Patrick’s Day Party (Athentic Brewing Co.) Enjoy live Celtic pub music, Irish dance performances, a new beer release and food trucks. 5–11 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: Show and Tell: Powerpoint Party (Buvez) Athens Queer Night and Shameless Sexuality present an evening of presentations to the community on hobbies, passions, areas of expertise and more. 6 p.m. Donations suggested. www. instagram.com/queernight.athens

FILM: We Were Here (Georgia Museum of Art) Screening of the documentary about the untold history of Black Africans in Renaissance Europe followed by a conversation. UGA Humanities Festival. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org

FILM: The White Rose (UGA Miller Learning Center) Screening of the 1982 film about German university students publicizing opposition to the Nazi regime. Athens Antifascist Film Festival. 7 p.m. FREE! libs. uga.edu

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

KIDSTUFF: Mini Adventure Day (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Visit different parks and centers for a variety of activities. Ages 8–12. Registration required. $25 (ACC resident), $38 (non-resident). www. sandycreeknaturecenterinc.org

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: Helen S. Lanier Poetry Reading (Ciné) Haudenosaunee poet and multimodal artist Kenzie Allen will read from her work Cloud Missives. 6 p.m. FREE! engl. franklin.uga.edu

Saturday 15

ART: Student Perspectives (Georgia Museum of Art) Join one of the student guides for a conversational tour of the permanent collection. 12 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. org

EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers market.net

EVENTS: Glass of Champagne Charity Event (Jittery Joe’s Roaster Tasting Room) Mutual Aid benefit for Vianca Champagne featuring T-shirt screen printing, tarot readings, henna tattoos, vendors and more. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. www. instagram.com/coven_craftss

EVENTS: FOL Spring Book Sale (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks with proceeds benefiting the Oglethorpe Co. Friends of the Library. Mar. 13–14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mar. 15, 10 a.m.–2p.m. www.oconeelibrary friends.org

EVENTS: Zoo Day (Bear Hollow Zoo at Memorial Park) Celebrate animal art with local vendors, a youth art exhibition featuring native Georgia wildlife, educational animal encounters, crafts and more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com

EVENTS: Constellations Around the Globe Planetarium Program (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Learn about constellations from around the world and compare myths of the star stories. Registration required. 10 a.m. $5 (ACC residents), $8 (non-residents). www.accgov.com/ myrec

EVENTS: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration (Terrapin Beer Co.) Enjoy green beer, games, music and a tie-dye station. 12–10 p.m. www. terrapinbeer.com

EVENTS: Miss Omega Psi Phi Scholarship Pageant (Morton Theatre) This year’s theme is inspired by Bring It On, showcasing the intellect, talent and resilience of participants. 6 p.m. $12. bit.ly/ missomega25

EVENTS: AFMDS Contra Dance (Memorial Park Administration Building) This community dance features caller Jennie Inglis and live music by the Blue Moon String Band. No partner required. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7–10 p.m. (dance). $12 (adults), $10 (students w/ ID), 17 & under FREE! www.athensfolk.org

FILM: Northern Lights (UGA Fine Arts Building) Screening of the 1978 film featuring an in-person conversation with co-director John Hansen. 6:30 p.m. FREE! calendar. uga.edu

GAMES: Pathfinder Society RPG (Tyche’s Games) Come and adven-

ture with the Pathfinder Society. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

KIDSTUFF: Family Day: Awe of the Ordinary (Georgia Museum of Art) Learn about the elements of art with interactive gallery activities and a take-home art project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. org

KIDSTUFF: STEAM Saturday (Bogart Library) Drop in to learn about famous female STEAM figures through hands-on activities. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart

KIDSTUFF: Tween Saturday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for a movie, crafts, snacks and games. 2–4 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Battle of Midway (Oconee County Library) Join local historian Rod Davis as he discusses the history of the WWII Battle of Midway. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee

MEETINGS: Tattered Writers (ACC Library) Inclusive writers group open to writers of all genres and experience levels. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

MEETINGS: Atheist Society of Athens (Jittery Joe’s) Non-prophet discussions with friends and neighbors. Third Saturdays, 4 p.m. FREE! www.atheistsocietyathens.org

OUTDOORS: Environmental Ethics Philosopher’s Walk (Piedmont Preserve) Take a tour of the 50-acre greenspace Piedmont Preserve. 10 a.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ eecp_uga

PERFORMANCE: Dancing with the Athens Stars (The Classic Center) Well-known dancers and local leaders get on stage to earn your votes, with proceeds benefitting Project Safe. 7:30 p.m. $30. www. classiccenter.com

SPORTS: Memorial 5K (UGA Park & Ride) The UGA Army ROTC hosts its annual race for the Lt. Noah Harris Fund scholarship program. 8 a.m. (check-in), 9 a.m. (race). $25. www.armyrotc.uga.edu

Sunday 16

ART: Student Perspectives (Georgia Museum of Art) Join one of the student guides for a conversational tour of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. org

CLASSES: Sound Healing (Sangha Yoga Studio) Kennedy Oneself leads participants through a voyage with vibration as they lay down and relax. 7 p.m. $30–50. www.healing artscentre.net

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

COMEDY: Off the Clock Comedy (The Globe) Athens Comedy presents a lineup of local and touring comedians. 8:30 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). www.facebook.com/ athenscomedy

EVENTS: Sips n Thrifts (Sips Espresso Cafe) Browse goods from vendors like local art, jewelry, trinkets, records, clothes and more. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. www.instagram.com/ sipsespresso

EVENTS: Historic Athens Heritage Walk (Downtown Athens) Learn

about the history, architecture and cultural significance of the two recognized Downtown Historic Districts. Registration required. 2 p.m. $25. www.historicathens.com

GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this game of chance. 1 p.m. (doors), 3 p.m. (game). 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 KIDSTUFF: Georgia Questival (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Exhibitors and vendors will lead adventurous activities showcasing Georgia’s natural history. 1–5 p.m. $5/individual, $20/family. bot garden.uga.edu

SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Blue Ridge Bobcats (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 6 p.m. $20–43. www.classiccenter.com

Monday 17

COMEDY: Whose Live Anyway? (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall) Four of the world’s most masterful improv artists will take you on a high wire act of comedic acrobatics. 7:30 p.m. $63.71–79.36. pac. uga.edu

COMEDY: Funny Femmes (150 Fritz Mar Lane) An all-women showcase featuring comedians from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. $7 (adv.), $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: Marigold Farmers Market (100 North Church Street) Vendors offer organic produce, prepared foods, agricultural products and artisanal goods. Mondays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. www.marigoldcollectivewinterville.com

FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) A young karate expert enlists the help of a mysterious monk to take down a drug kingpin in Ireland’s first kung-fu spectacle Final Deviation 8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ BadMovieNight

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (LumberJaxe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens

GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

KIDSTUFF: Monday Funday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for songs, fingerplays, storytelling and STEAM activities. Ages 3–7 years. Registration suggested. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Teen D&D Club (Oconee County Library) Join a one-shot game open to all skill levels, including Dungeon Masters, with a prize drawing at the end of the evening. Grades 6–12. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (1430 N Chase St) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.classiccityrotary. org

PERFORMANCE: Get Lucky (40 Watt Club) The Bombshells of Dance FX present a St. Patrick’s Day themed routine. 7 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $10. www.40watt.com

Tuesday 18

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: Basic Plumbing Workshop (Bobby Snipes Water Resources Center) Learn to locate and read your meter, fix household leaks and track water usage using the WaterSmart portal. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com

COMEDY: Monthly Movie Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) Improv group Take This! will perform an abridged version of movie favorites. Third Tuesdays, 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: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Eddie’s Calzones) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens

GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com

GAMES: Humanities Trivia Night (Ciné) Test your trivia knowledge with host Mark Mobley. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.cineathens.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

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/ baddogathens

GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/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

LECTURES & LIT: 2025 Women’s History Month Keynote Lecture (Special Collections Library Auditorium) Dr. Scott Kurashige will give a talk called “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” 4 p.m. FREE! wgs.uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss The Faculty Lounge by Jennifer Mathieu with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in

this hockey match. 7 p.m. $20–43. www.classiccenter.com

THEATER: Annie (The Classic Center) Production of the classic musical about little orphan Annie. 7:30 p.m. $65.50–76.25. www. classiccenter.com

Wednesday 19

ART: Curator Talk (Georgia Museum of Art) Kathryn Hill will give a gallery talk about the installation of Kent Monkman and Grey Cohoe’s contemporary paintings alongside early-18th-century portraits. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

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

COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. Hosted by Noell Appling. Third Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, art and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www.athens farmersmarket.net

FILM: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Hosting anime night. 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: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (La Fiesta) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

GAMES: Trivia Night (B&B Theatres) Test your trivia knowledge on a variety of topics. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www. bbtheatres.com

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia

KIDSTUFF: LEGO Mania (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Hunger Games Teen Hangout (Oconee County Library) Drop in and celebrate the release of the newest book of the series with crafts, snacks and more. Ages 12–18. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (UGA Fine Arts Building) Afghanborn author and artist Moshtari Hilal will discuss her highly political book Ugliness. 12:30 p.m. FREE! calendar.uga.edu

PERFORMANCE: The Sleeping Beauty (The Classic Center) The State Ballet of Ukraine performs the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty. 7 p.m. $35–92. www.classiccenter. com

Down the Line

3/20 Get Comfortable Fundraiser (Rivet House)

3/20 Opening Reception (Clarke Central High School)

3/20 Madison Antiques & Fine Things Preview Night (The Hall on Foster) f

threats & promises

Hampton Campbell’s Gatherer

PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

Hey y’all, by the time you read this we’ll be neck-deep in the cultural whirlwind that is Austin, TX’s South By Southwest conference. There’s a bit of info below about Athens-related items happening out there, but mostly it’s still all news that’s primarily relevant for those here at home. You know how we do. So, let’s jump in.

TEXAS SHOWDOWN: Athens will be well represented in Austin this year courtesy of Indecent Artistry and its corker of a party at Austin’s Chess Club (617 Red River St.). It’s billed as “Don’t Look, Now!” in case you were wondering. This event is also presented by Athens folks RubySue Graphics,

and pedal steel. Drums were handled by Andrew McFarland (Reptar, Semicircle), and the whole thing was mastered by Charlie Chastain. Enjoy this at juliabarfield.bandcamp. com, and for more information, please see instagram.com/ juliabarfieldmusic.

BACK AND TO THE LEFT: The next instance of the wonderfully curated Sonic Space at ATHICA takes place Friday, Mar. 14. On this bill this night is The John Kiran Fernandes and David McCoy Ambient Duo, which is composed of exactly the two folks mentioned in the name. In this duo Fernandes plays his signature clarinet, while McCoy handles guitars and effects. The result is, according to a press release, “a modal dreamscape of contemplative beauty.” Also on the bill is Ryan Roux (Secrets In the Stars) who plays layered psychedelic folk. He’ll be joined at times by Fernandes. ATHICA is located in The Leathers Building at 675 Pulaski Street, Suite #1200. Doors open at 7 p.m., music begins at 8 p.m., and the suggested donation for the musicians is generally ten dollars, so take some folding money with you.

Nuçi’s Space and Flicker Theatre and Bar. National presenters include Hot Wax, Outta Wax Vinyl and Cathead Vodka. The showcase runs from 12–6 p.m. and will feature Athens artists Rubber Udder, Monsoon and Honeypuppy; Atlanta artists Buice and CDSM; Savannah’s Basically Nancy; New York’s Hiding Places and MX Lonely; and Columbus, OH’s Golomb. The forecast in Austin this day is predicting a high of 85 degrees and a low of 55 degrees, so dress comfortably.

HEADING OUT TO THE HIGHWAY: In related news, both Honeypuppy and Rubber Udder are in the midst of a winding Southern tour that will land each of them at the showcase mentioned above, but also wind them through Denton, TX, Dallas, Memphis and Chattanooga, TN. Then the carnival lands back in Athens for a show at Nowhere Bar on Saturday, Mar. 22 where they’ll be joined by Trepid. To familiarize yourself please see instagram.com/trepid sucks, honeypuppy.bandcamp.com and rubberudder.band camp.com.

A SWEETER SPRING: Americana, folk artist Julia Barfield released her new EP Keep To Me last week, and it’s a nice little record full of sweet surprises as well as evidence of an unimpeachable production team. This is not pop country nor party country but, rather, one of those records you play on Sunday morning before the rest of the world wakes up. Particularly lovely are “Rainbows And Ridges,” “Eveline” and the title track. The record was recorded at Chase Park Transduction and Ben Hackett (New Madrid, et al) handled production, engineering, mixing, bass and background vocals. McKendrick Bearden (Grand Vapids, et al) added his capable shoring up efforts by contributing guitar, keys

HOW DOES ANYONE FALL IN LOVE?: The chipper new record Gatherer by Hampton Campbell landed on my desk last week. I enjoyed its five tracks immediately and repeatedly. It opens with the classic indie-pop- twee of “Whipsmart,” which is lighthearted enough to introduce everything. It moves to the more reserved and bass-heavy “Troubadours,” which has a slow mood about it as does “Times To Waste.” If you’ve been itching for a throwback to Kevin Barnes’ early of Montreal demos, then “Lesser Than” has got you covered. Honestly, the best thing here arrives at the very end. The last song, “No Idea,” swoops right in with a Velvet Underground- worthy guitar riff, a steady rock-and-roll beat, and semi-dour lyrics that carry it right along. Find this over at hamptoncampbell.bandcamp.com.

THE HEAT: The steady hip-hop ship of Trvy & The Enemy released a new single right at the end of February named “Home Run.” Now, this just may be the most thoroughly cohesive, next-level creative and all-around enjoyable track I’ve ever heard from this crew. The production is stellar and incredibly well composed. Especially impressive is the guitar solo that begins at about the two-and-a-half-minute mark and rises into a Queen- style crescendo before blending with an orchestral section and landing softly. Find this on all major streaming sites, find some older stuff over at trvyandtheenemy.bandcamp.com, and keep up at instagram.com/trvyandtheenemy.

HERE’S TWO FOR FLINCHING: There are back- to-back punk shows this week that should set your ears alight in just the right way. First, at Flicker Theatre and Bar on Wednesday, Mar. 12 you can catch Washington, D.C.’s Hologram along with locals Multiple Miggs and Big Trouble. Things should start getting going around 8 p.m., and if they don’t, just yell at someone. The next night, Thursday, Mar. 13 at The World Famous you can get a hearty helping of Philadelphia’s Shid who, on its surface, doesn’t betray how deeply experimental it can get with its traverses through the underground. Also on the bill are Atlanta’s ambient/ coldwave/darkwave group Writhe as well as locals Plan B The former should run around ten bucks, while the latter is clocked in at five bucks. f

bulletin board

Deadline for getting listed in Bulletin Board is every THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the print issue that comes out the following Wednesday. Online listings are updated daily. Email calendar@flagpole.com.

AAAC QUARTERLY GRANT (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council offers $500 grants to visual and performing artists in any medium to support specific projects that enrich the culture of Athens. Rolling deadlines are 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. Applications are reviewed Apr. 20 for residencies beginning July 1 and Sept. 20 for residencies beginning Jan. 1. www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse

ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform to connect creatives with patrons. Visual artists, musicians, actors, writers and other creatives are encouraged to create a free listing. www.athenscreatives.directory

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 complete online form. bit.ly/42hQJKq

BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals residing in Georgia to develop an art exhibition to be on display for

6–8 weeks at the LHAC. A stipend of $1,500 is provided. www.accgov. com/9799/ArtistCurator

CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls) Amici is seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email an introduction and a few examples of work. careywelsh20@gmail.com CALL FOR ART (Bishop Park) Professional artists are invited to submit qualifications to design and install artistic pedestrian gates as part of the public art for the Bishop Park Improvements Project. Application deadline Mar. 14, 5:00 p.m. www. accgov.com/10597/Call-for-Public-Art-Bishop-Park-Gates CALL FOR ART (Oconee County Library) The library is seeking local artists to share their artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email for information. adial@athenslibrary.org

CALL FOR ART (Rook & Pawn) Rook & Pawn is seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email for specifics. kendall mcquoid@gmail.com

CALL FOR ART (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Seeking original art submissions from students 9th grade and above attending school full- or part-time in Georgia. Winning art may be used for promotional materials and merchandise. Prizes include $1,000 for 1st place, $500 for 2nd place and $250 for 3rd place. Application deadline Mar. 28. www.botgarden.uga.edu/ student-art-competition

CALL FOR ART (Winterville Library) Apply to be a featured local artist

art around town

ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 500) “Beneath the Sky and Sea,” new paintings by Louise Haynes Hall on view in the Main Gallery. • “Playing House” is a collection of mixed media work by Cecilia Reynolds in the Upper Gallery. Through April.

AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) Animal art with a pop art twist by local artist Will Eskridge on view through Mar. 13.

ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) Brooklyn-based artist Matt Keegan’s sculptures, collage and paintings in “Realia” are based on double-sided imagebased flash cards his mother made to teach English. Through Mar. 22. ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) The 2025 Members’ Showcase features a variety of mixed media works from ATHICA members. On view through Mar. 16. • “Confluence III: Clarke County High School Students Pop-up” will be on display Mar. 17–24.

ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) Works by local artist Richard Huston will be on view through Apr. 25.

AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) “All Banners of Living Things” from local artist Margaret Agner on view through May. Featuring painted silk wall hangings of moths, butterflies and florals.

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.

COMMUNITY (260 N Jackson St.) Local artist Susan Pelham will have a variety of works on view through March.

DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) “Prints and Collages 2013–2025,” a selection of works by Aaron S. Coleman, features an ongoing scrutinization of historical and contemporary systems of racial and class-based suppression. On display in the Lupin Foundation Gallery through Mar. 21. • Mickey Boyd displays folk art inspired “constructions” in the “Wall Works” exhibit at the Plaza Gallery in the Atrium. Through Mar. 21. • Larissa McPherson’s “Speculative Adornment” focuses on the effects of plastic in the environment. • On view in the Bridge Gallery through Mar. 21. “N, as in Nancy” is part of a sectioned display by Matt Keegan. Through Mar. 22. FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Art by Brandy Angel will

in the Front Room Gallery. The library accepts all 2D mediums such as watercolor, acrylic, collage, textile, photography, digital and multi-media. Email swatson@ athenslibrary.org

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Online) JOKER JOKERtv is actively accepting proposals for collaboration from artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www. jokerjokertv.com/submit

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Circulating Stamp Project) Take part in an interactive experience to create a limited-edition postcard while visiting multiple art venues across separate Third Thursday events. Mar. 20, Apr. 17 and May 15. Visit www.3thurs. org for more information.

CALL FOR ARTISTS (MAGallery)

Now accepting artist applications for gallery exhibits. MAGallery is a nonprofit cooperative gallery. Gallery Artists work one day a month and participate on a committee. Visit www.themadisonartistsguild.org/ call-for-artists for more information.

CALL FOR ARTISTS (MAGallery) Now accepting artist applications for the MAGallery Plein Air Paint Out for the MADfest event on Apr. 26. Pre-registration required. www. themadisonartistsguild.org/pleinair-paint-out

CALL FOR COLLECTORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The LHAC’s “Collections from our Community” series features unique collections

be on view through March.

of objects found in the closets, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. Email if interested in displaying your collection. shelby.little@ accgov.com

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

BRIGHT STAR (Town & Gown Players) Auditions for this musical production will be held Apr. 14–15. Performances held June 12–22. Email info@townandgownplayers. org for more information.

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. www.unityathens.com

ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 and up.

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. • “Beyond the Medici: The Haukohl Family Collection” is one of the most extensive holdings of Florentine baroque art in private hands outside of Italy. Through May 18.

GLASSCUBE@INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Zane Cochran presents “Aurora,” a sculptural interpretation of the aurora borealis using 3D geometric figures and lights.

GREEN WAY & FIREFLY TRAIL (Multiple Locations) Outdoor art installations include new public artwork “Georgia Railroad Lantern,” by artists Jim Benedict and Lily Kuonen. It joins other works along the trail including “Trail Blossom,” a sculpture by Richard Herzog, and “Heron Sighting,” a mural by Krysia Ara.

LAMAR DODD SUITE GALLERY (270 River Rd.) Presented by the Black Artists Alliance, “COLORS” is the gallery’s second annual Black Artists’ Exhibition. Through Mar. 21.

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. • “Twist” features paintings by Carol John full of pop colors and vibrating repetitions of dots, lines and shapes. Through Mar. 15. • “Distillations” features drawings on paper and wall-bound constructions by Johntimothy Pizzuto and Patti Roberts-Pizzuto. Through Mar. 15. • “Imposter Syndrome” features found objects and documentary photography by Emily Llamazales. Site specific to the Lobby Case exhibit and part of the IN Case program. Through Apr. 25. • Over 150 works for the 50th Juried Exhibition will be on view Mar. 13–May 10. Opening reception Mar. 13, 5:30–7:30 p.m.

MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) Atlanta artist Robert Miller presents a special exhibition of abstracted works called “All Over the Pallet” that runs from Mar. 13–Apr. 19. Opening reception Mar. 14, 6–8 p.m.

OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) Featured exhibit “Youth Art Month” will be on view Mar. 14–May 9. Opening reception Mar. 14, 6–8 p.m.

PORCELAIN AND DECORATIVE ARTS MUSEUM (2450 S. Milledge Ave.)

Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com

ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop)

The shop offers a range of fine art classes and workshops for adults, private classes and parties, summer camps, and art clubs for youth. Register online. www.kaartist.com

BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of blacksmithing classes include “Forge a Medieval Flail” (Mar. 28–29). Classes run 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150/class. www. greenhowhandmade.com/blacksmith-classes

CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS (Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-person classes. Topics include “You Can Bank On It” (Mar. 24, 5:30 p.m.) and “Homebuyer Education” (Mar. 26, 9:30 a.m.). Visit website for full list. www.athenslandtrust. org/classes-events

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS (The Lightroom Athens) A variety of programs to help build skills in photography, videography and audio production. Follow @lightroomath on Instagram for the latest updates.

CLEAN ENERGY STUDY GROUP (Athens, GA) Learn about the ACC Clean & Renewable Energy Plan, and discuss how local citizens can contribute to reaching ACC’s goals. A 5-week program on Tuesdays, Mar. 18–Apr. 15. Morning and evening sessions available. Email info@sosuin.org for information.

COOKING AND BAKING CLASSES (Athens Cooks) Upcoming classes include “Shepard’s Pie” (Mar. 14), “Macarons” (Mar. 23) and “A Taste of Spain” (Apr. 1). Visit website for full list and registration. www. athenscooks.com/collections/ cooking-classes

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. timbathens@gmail.com, www. timbathens.com

CUBAN SALSA LESSONS (El Carretonero) SALSAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced) and 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10 drop-in. www.SALS AthensDancing@gmail.com

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 CLASSES (150 Fritz Mar Ln.) A 6-week course learning the basics of improv including comedy, acting and performance. Registration for classes beginning Mar. 16 is now open. www.flyingsquid comedy.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) Taekwondo, self-defense and more 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. www.liveoakmartialarts.com

WINE TASTING & EDUCATION (Athens Cooks) Upcoming classes include “Wine Resolutions for 2025” which introduces lesser known wines paired with charcuterie. Mar. 25. $65. Register online at www.athenscooks.com/ collections/cooking-classes

YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) A multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering

Two new collections celebrating the connection between art and nature include a complete Jasperware tea set from Wedgewood in England and a series of hand-carved coconut vessels.

STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave) Local photographer and mixed media artist Berkeley Boone presents a nature-centric exhibition through Apr. 27.

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. On view through June 28. • Alexandra Huynh presents “From Tears to the Sea and Other Works.” Through June 28. • “The Madness of Clowns” is a collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures that explores humanity’s interest in clowns. Presented by curatorial assistant Victoria Raatz. Through July 1.

TAYLOR-GRADY HOUSE (634 Prince Ave.) Boyce Clarke’s “Unseen Narratives” delves into the complexities of identity, social inequality and human resilience expressed through alternative process photography. On display through Mar. 16.

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. Through Aug. 8.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “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.

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH GEORGIA OCONEE CAMPUS (1201 Bishop Farms Pkwy., Watkinsville) “More Real than Real” is a collection from Best in Show at the UNG Visual Arts 2024 Juried Alum artist Aidan Lyerly. Through Mar. 14.

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 CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY (371 N. Church St., Winterville) Exhibitions “Two Fold” by Jack and Amanda Burk and “Outside the Box” by Peter Loose, Leigh Ellis and Michael Pierce will be on view through Mar. 14.

yoga and therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed practices. A 5week course “Somatic Movement; Healing Trauma, Cultivating SelfAwareness and Expression” begins Mar. 13. $130. Partial scholarships available. www.revolutiontherapy andyoga.com

YOGA CLASSES (Grateful Head Yoga) Classes are offered in beginner, gentle and other styles of yoga. Visit @gratefulheadyoga for full schedule.

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, gentle and other styles. Check online calendar for weekly offerings. www. letitbeyoga.org

YOGA CLASSES (Shakti Yoga Athens) Classes are offered in Power Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Yin and Restorative Yoga. New student offer: four weeks of unlimited yoga for $40. shaktiyogaathens.com

Help Out

ATHENS REPAIR CAFE (Solid Waste Office) The repair cafe is seeking volunteers comfortable fixing a variety of items including: clothing, small appliances, lamps,knives, tools and more. Fourth Sunday of every month. reuse@accgov.com, www.accgov.com/RepairCafe

BRAS FOR A CAUSE (Grail Bra Specialists) Seeking donations of gently-used bras for distribution to local shelters, recovery centers and communities in need. Contact Athens Area Bra Bank at 706-8500387, support@grailbras.com

LITTLE FREE PANTRY DONATIONS

(ACC People and Belonging Dept.)

Join the Women’s History Month Donation Challenge for the month of March by donating non-perishable and essential items to various local Little Free Pantries. Visit www. littlefreepantry.org for locations. Submit a photo of your donations and enter to win prizes. belonging @accgov.com

MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUNTEERS

(Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living) Seeking volunteers to assist a nonprofit agency that serves individuals living with disabilities throughout a 10-country area of Northeastern Georgia. Contact Daniel Myers at 706-850-4025 or dmyers@multiplechoices.us

PACK WALKS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Volunteer dog walkers needed for daily interactions with the shelter dogs. Open opportunities every day, 4–5 p.m. Register at www.tidycal.com/animalservicesvolunteer/pack-walk

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 FOOD DONATIONS (The Cottage) Seeking donations of single-serving, non-perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-off please call 706-546-1133, ext 223.

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Athens Farmer Market) Seeking volunteers for the 2025 season to help with weekly markets, special events and more. Submit applications online. www.athensfarmersmarket.net/ volunteer

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Volunteers needed for the opening reception of the 50th Juried Exhibition on Mar. 13, 4–8 p.m.. Sign up form online. www.accgov.com/lyndonhouse.

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS (Twilight) Volunteers and donations needed for the 45th Annual Twilight event. Volunteer opportunities include event guide, enrichment activity support and more. Donate a rental to host professional cyclists and staff, and receive a variety of opportunities such as VIP tickets or special event entries. Apr. 25–26. Sign up forms online. www.athenstwilight.com/ volunteer, www.athenstwilight. com/host

TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store. Visit accgov.com/trs for hours.

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

AFTER-SCHOOL ART CLASSES

(Lyndon House) Registration is now open for upcoming Spring classes for children, such as “Studio Art Practice,” “Art Time” and “Handbuilt Ceramics.” Classes run for 6 weeks beginning in Mar. Check website for schedule, cost and details. www.accgov.myrec.com

BRELLA ACTIVITIES (’Brella Studio)

After-school art lessons for ages 6–11 are held Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Family Playgroups are for ages 0–5 and their caregivers including “Messy Mondays” and “Sing, Splatter, Storytime.” Check website for descriptions and meeting times. www.brellastudio.com/ events

CAMP PROGRAMS (ACC Leisure Services) Registration for the 2025 Summer Camp opens for residents on Mar. 15 at 9 a.m. Non-resident registration begins Mar. 17 at 12 p.m. www.accgov.com/myrecs

CAMP PROGRAMS (Athens Humane Society) “Humane Heroes” and “Junior Vet” summer camps are open for registration. June and July availability but spaces are limited. www.athenshumanesociety.org/ summer-camp

CAMP PROGRAMS (Firefly Homeschool Community) Registration for “Be Wild” Homeschool Summer Camp for students grade K–12 is now open. Programs run May through June. Visit fireflyhome schoolcommunity.org for pricing and scheduling.

CAMP PROGRAMS (Nuçi’s Space) Registration for 2025 camp programs is now open for June and July Camp Amped sessions, Camp Amplify recording/engineering camp, Camp Amped Half Day 1 week sessions and 1 week Sound Check sessions. Visit www.nuci. org/camp for more information.

CAMP PROGRAMS (Sweet Olive Farm) Registration for 2025 camp programs for children ages 6–12 is now open. Programs run June through Aug. Visit www.sweetolive farm.org for pricing and options.

CAMP PROGRAMS (The Studio) Registration for “Creative Kids Camp” starting in June is now open. Programs are for ages 4–8 with music, art and movement to foster creative expression and imaginative play. www.thestudioath.com

CAMP PROGRAMS (Wild Earth Forest School) Registration is open for “Wild Earth Spring Break” in Apr. and Summer Camp starting in May for ages 4–13 at the 50-acre Piedmont Preserve off of Chase Street. www.wildearthcamp.org

CREATIVE CLASSES (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Treehouse offers a variety of art-centric activities for children, such as “Art School,” “Toddler/ Baby Process Art,” “Digital Art Designer,” “Open Studio,” “Art School Junior,” “Saturday Morning Crafts” and more. Summer camp registration is now open. Check website for schedule and details. www.treehousekidandcraft.com

GROUPS AT REBLOSSOM (ReBlossom) A variety of classes, playgroups and support groups are offered for parents and young children. Topics include birth and breastfeeding, prenatal and parent-baby yoga, instrument play, maternal mental health and more. Check website for a schedule. www. reblossomathens.com

Support Groups

ADVANCED CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (University Cancer and Blood Center) A support group for those living with advanced/ terminal cancer with the goal to find comfort, encouragement and valuable resources.First Monday of every month. 5:30–7 p.m. www.university cancer.com

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 advocacy. 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. joanneh namihallga@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. www.byyourleave.org

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

(First Baptist Church) This group is to encourage, support and share information with fellow sojourners who manage the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders. Second Friday of the month, 1 p.m. gpnoblet@ bellsouth.net

PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT

(Chase Park Warehouses) A peerled support group of people who understand the depth of love and grief for animal companions. Meets every second and fourth Wednesday, 6:30–8 p.m. ibrantbeing.net/ grief-support

POLYAMORY SUPPORT GROUP (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) An open support group for adults practicing or considering polyamory or nonmonogamy. Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www. revolutiontherapyandyoga.com

PREVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN (Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support) Women ages 18–50 who have been diagnosed with a genetic mutation for breast cancer (but not diagnosed with cancer) can gather for peer support and share unique challenges. Third Thursdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m. 706465-4900, loransmithcenter@ piedmont.org

PROJECT SAFE (Family Protection Center) Project Safe hosts a support group for survivors of domestic violence. Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. www. project-safe.org

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

CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box presents true short stories shared by community members. Submit story ideas for upcoming shows. Themes include “In the Wrong Place, at the Wrong Time” (Mar. 25), “Road Trip!” (Apr. 22) and “Soundtrack of My Life” on (May 27). www.rabbitbox.org/tell

RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Weekly events include Open Mic (Tuesdays, 7–11 p.m.), Acoustic Song Circle (Thursdays, 7–11 p.m.) and Drumming and Song Circle (Sundays, 3–5 p.m.). Wednesday Yoga (5 p.m.) is followed by Meditation and Integration (6 p.m.). www.rabbitholestudios. org/calendar

SEVENTH GENERATION (Various Locations) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts gatherings on Sundays at 11 a.m. at Feel Free Yoga and Men’s Group on Tuesdays at 6 p.m at St. Gregory’s Church. For information: 706-3407134

SPRING REGISTRATION OPEN

(ACC Leisure Services) A diverse selection of programs for both adults and children are now open for registration. Visit www.accgov. com/myrec to sign up. Scholarships available. www.accgov.com/ scholarship

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.vicchesnutt award.com f

TUESDAY, MARCH 11TH

REAL ESTATE

HOUSES FOR RENT

House in ARMC. 3BR/2BA. Central HVAC. Furnished. Hwd floors. Washer/dryer. Driveway/on-street parking. No smokers, pets. Calls only! 706-372-1505

HOUSES FOR SALE

Looking for a house or a home? Condo or land? Call Daniel Peiken. REALTOR

5Market Realty. Selling in and around Athens for over 20 years. 706-296-2941

FOR SALE

MISCELLANEOUS

Business Water Solutions offers the cleanest drinking water available through innovative bottle- less water coolers and ice machines. 706- 248- 6761 or business watersolutions.com to set up a consultation.

Get Flagpole delivered to your mailbox! Only $65 for six months or $125 for one year. Purchase at www.flagpole.bigcartel.com.

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.athens schoolofmusic.com. 706543-5800

MUSIC SERVICES

Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428

SERVICES

CLASSES

The Studio’s Creative Kids Camp for ages 4-8 is open for registration! 9 weeks of creative play, music, and art. Starting in June. www. thestudioath.com

Advertise your service in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-549-0301.

HOME AND GARDEN

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.

Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in low- maintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablo fromseed, email pkozatch@ gmail.com or call 631-9034365.

Need old papers for your garden? We have plenty here at Flagpole! Call ahead and we’ll get some ready for you. 706-549-0301

LEGAL SERVICES

Accident Happen? Call Massey Law Group, your local team of award- winning attorneys who fight for injured clients in automobile and trucking accidents. www.masseyfights.com

JOBS OPPORTUNITIES

Fun, old lady in Winterville needs basic instruction on Android Phone. computer canvas and microsoft 365 word document. Jen Elliott 352-239-3484

Find employees by advertising jobs in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-5490301 to place an ad.

PART-TIME

El Paso is NOW HIRING HOSTS! Flexible + student friendly scheduling, no experience required as training is provided. Apply in person.

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

Flagpole ♥s our advertisers.

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

Follow ACC Solid Waste on Instagram/Facebook @ accsolidwaste for tips and resources for recycling, composting, repairs, and more or visit accgov.com/ solidwaste.

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 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 and more at VFW Post 2872 at 835 Sunset Drive in Athens!

$125

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Purchase online at www.flagpole.big cartel.com, call 706-549-0301 or email frontdesk@flagpole.com.