The Athens Rock Lobsters hockey team has made history in its inaugural season by securing a spot in the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup Playoffs. The team’s first-year dominance in the Federal Prospects Hockey League has earned it a reputation as one of the league’s premier franchises.
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city dope
Housing and Homelessness
FEDERAL FUNDING DOESN’T GO FAR, AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
Athens- Clarke County officials briefed commissioners at a work session last week on their plan to spend more than $2 million on affordable housing and homelessness, but the money does not go very far.
ACC expects to receive $967,000 this year in federal HOME funds, an annual block grant program for affordable housing construction and rehabilitation. That funding is not nearly enough to meet the need, though—the Housing and Community Development Department received six applications totaling $2.6 million.
After vetting and ranking the applications, HCD staff and the commissionappointed Vision Committee recommended awarding Athens Area Habitat for Humanity $480,000 to help build four single- family homes at the Micah’s Creek development and the Athens Land Trust $325,000 for two single- family homes in the Savannah Heights subdivision, both located in East Athens. With land and construction costs around $350,000–$400,000 per house, it takes a $200,000–$250,000 subsidy to make a house affordable for lowincome families, according to HCD Director Melinda Lord.
Habitat and the ALT requested $600,000 and $710,000, respectively. Other projects not recommended for funding include $500,000 for senior apartments because the developer has not yet received federal tax credits needed to fund the project, as well as $500,000 for Historic Athens and $225,000 for Renew Athens to rehab houses.
In addition, commissioners will be approving recipients for $1.2 million in federal Community Development Block Grants, which can be spent on affordable housing as well as infrastructure, economic development and social services. HCD received 21 requests totaling $2.4 million and funded 15, some at a lower level than requested. For affordable housing, recommended recipients include Habitat ($140,000), Historic Athens ($130,000), the Athens Housing Authority ($130,000) and ALT ($130,000). Two homelessness programs—Family Promise ($36,700) and The Sparrow’s Nest $40,125)—were also recommended.
Separately, the ACC government devotes about $1 million in local tax revenue to “community partnerships,” or nonprofits that provide essential services. The county received 31 applications totaling $3.6 million for those funds. Among the 12 recommended recipients: $220,000 for the Athens Area Homeless Shelter, $40,000 for The Sparrow’s Nest, $104,566 for the Our Daily Bread soup kitchen, $45,000 for the Bigger Vision of Athens shelter, $100,000 for the Salvation Army and $150,000 for a Family Promise eviction prevention program.
During an Athens Homeless Coalition presentation at the Mar. 11 work session, commissioners Ovita Thornton and Tiffany Taylor tore into the coalition’s executive director, Michael Bien, over plans to build low-income apartments with supportive
housing for the homeless on an Athens Housing Authority-owned lot at Peter and Vine streets. They said the community was not consulted about the project and does not support it.
Taylor objected to the idea of putting housing for homeless individuals undergoing treatment for mental health into a neighborhood with families. “As a mother of five children who lives across the street from that development, do you know how nervous I am to have my five children who walk to and from the community center to potentially come into contact with someone who is dealing with a mental episode?” she said. “Was that even a consideration when you chose this property?
“I feel like this property was chosen because it is primarily a Black neighborhood, and we want to move the undesirables to a place where other undesirables reside,” Taylor continued.
Bien said he understands those concerns, but that he had nothing to do with choosing the site, and people who are dangerous or violent will not be eligible for the program. “A lot of times people push back on housing projects like this, saying, ‘I don’t want those people in my neighborhood,’ or ‘I don’t want those people near my family,’” he said. “Well, these individuals are already in our neighborhoods. They’re just unhoused, and they sleep outdoors. I don’t feel like this is bringing them to your neighborhood.”
ACC officials also discussed allowing a range of new housing types in residential neighborhoods, from manufactured houses to tiny houses and accessory dwelling units to recreational vehicles. Planners are recommending including non-motorized “tiny houses on wheels” in the definition of RV, to allow RVs in existing mobile home parks and to inspect them. They could also include RVs in upcoming amendments to the zoning code dealing with “missing middle” housing like duplexes, and perhaps create a new zoning category for RVs.
The discussion on RVs grew out of a recent rezoning for a North Avenue apartment complex that displaced about half a dozen RV owners who lived at a mobile home park on the property.
Apartments Proposed at Homewood Hills
A developer is proposing to tear down part of the Homewood Hills shopping center off Jefferson Road and build more than 200 apartments in its place.
Chief Investment Officer Jack Murphy and other representatives from Carter, an Atlanta-based real estate investment and development firm, presented preliminary plans to neighborhood residents last week at a town hall meeting organized by Athens- Clarke County Commissioner Dexter Fisher. Although subject to change, they currently call for tearing down a third of the shopping center toward the back of the property—about 46,000 square feet
around the former bowling alley—and building two five- story apartment buildings with a total of 231 mostly two-bedroom units. The development would not have an affordable component. The remaining 92,000 square feet of commercial space is currently under lease and would gradually be renovated. La Parilla would be given the opportunity to move to a new space within the shopping center.
Residents expressed a preference for commercial space and questioned why Carter wants to build apartments. The Carter representatives said that they’ve had a hard time leasing the back spaces because they’re not visible from Jefferson Road, and that adding a residential component would help the retail businesses and restaurants in the remaining space. They said that perhaps the revamped development could draw a higher quality grocery store and a replacement for the Dial America call center.
The property is currently zoned commercial-general, which allows for multifamily development and has a height limit of 65 feet (although the apartment buildings will look shorter because the property is well below street level). Carter will need at least a waiver from ACC’s requirement for commercial space on the first floor of multifamily buildings to move forward with the project, and the company plans to file a request with the ACC Planning Department in May. The developers are hoping for final approval from the ACC Commission this fall, with construction starting next year and finishing in 2028.
CCSD Rejects Charter Schools
The Clarke County Board of Education voted last week to reject two charter school applications.
One proposal, called Early Visionaries Academy, would focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) and project-based learning, starting with 112 students in kindergarten and first grade, then expanding to 256 in K–5. The other, Visionaries Academy of Leadership and Entrepreneurship—serving 138 students in sixth and seventh grades initially, growing to 402 in grades 6–11—would
offer a “pod-based learning environment” and study abroad opportunities. In both cases, CCSD Superintendent Robbie Hooker told board members in a memo that the proposals risk pulling funding from existing public schools, and they do not align with CCSD’s policies on equity, strengthening neighborhood schools and closing achievement gaps.
“While VALE’s vision for leadership and entrepreneurship is ambitious, its approval would divert resources from CCSD’s strategic initiatives, creating a disjointed and inequitable approach to public education in Athens,” according to Hooker.
Of EVA, Hooker wrote: “EVA’s focus on small- scale, specialized instruction could lead to increased segregation of educational opportunities, rather than enhancing the district’s goal of equitable, high-quality learning for all students. With CCSD already implementing STEAM programs, project-based learning, and studentcentered instruction, EVA’s model is duplicative rather than additive—competing for limited resources rather than strengthening the district’s existing schools.”
Five board members—president Mumbi Anderson, Linda Davis, Patricia Yager, Tim Denson and LaKeisha Gantt—agreed with Hooker’s assessment. Mary Bagby abstained on EVA and voted in favor of VALE’s application. Heidi Hensley, Nicole Hull and Mark Evens were not present at the meeting.
Approving the charter schools would be fiscally irresponsible with the uncertainty around federal funding for K–12 education and the state’s new voucher program subsidizing private school tuition, Gantt said. Both schools can still apply to the State Charter Schools Commission for approval to operate in Athens. At least one charter school that was rejected by the local school board, Movement School Athens, was approved by the state commission and is scheduled to open in fall 2026. Stateapproved charter schools receive state Quality Basic Education formula funding, but not local tax dollars. Still, they can draw funds away from CCSD schools by drawing away students, which lowers the amount of QBE funding CCSD would receive. f
MAGA Is Manipulating Us
There is a great divide in this country, but MAGA politicians do not want us to notice: The top 1% of Americans hold 10 times more wealth than the bottom 50% of us.
MAGA knows that division creates conflict and a divide-and- conquer winner- takeall society. Abortion, minimum wage and threats from climate change are issues that we must address together. MAGA found a way to fabricate division on these issues. The fact is, we Americans are far more united than we are divided. According to recent polling, 61% of us feel current immigration policy is a problem, but 57% feel immigration is important to our national identity; 64% feel abortion should be legal in most or all cases, and 59% feel Roe v. Wade should not have been overturned; 62% of us favor increasing the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour; and 67% want to prioritize developing alternative energy such as wind and solar.
We as a country are nowhere as divided as Trump and MAGA want us to believe. Going forward, we can’t stand by while Trump implements the agenda he claims he has a mandate for. We must be engaged citizens if our collective will is to be respected. You may not be interested in politics, but politics is interested in you. We are being manipulated. In the next weeks and years, stay involved and watch to see what is being done in your name.
Richard Burt Athens
Athens Is Too Noisy
I live near Epps Bridge Parkway between Tawnyberry Drive and Timothy Road, a dense residential area. Nearly every day and night a few wannabe Nascar drivers troll back and forth on Epps Bridge Parkway. These few are disturbing the peace and are a nuisance. I can’t speak for the other homeowners in the area, but I’m incensed that these few constantly invade my space with their noise.
I know there will be road noise, ambulances, police cars, airplanes. These types of vehicles don’t cruise the parkway for hours, beginning in the wee hours of the morning and into the wee hours of the night. These are understandable and accepted sounds. Loud noise is different. Willful and targeted noise is different. There is no security system I know of to prevent this type of home invasion. It needs to be stopped at the source.
The police could/should cite this inconsiderate behavior and truly do a service to the public as peace officers. Our daily lives don’t have to be disrupted in this manner.
Barbara Blount Athens
More Thoughts on Leaf and Limb
I totally agree with my neighbor and good friend Dera Weaver on several points she makes about the leaf and limb issue (Flagpole, Feb. 5). The idea of calling in for pickup service is ridiculous. It is going to be
a nightmare of who and when and where. Let’s keep the zones. And I wholeheartedly believe we need to up the salaries of the drivers to at least $30 an hour.
But for all of this to work, the city needs to purchase another truck. I can hear the screaming now that it will cost too much money. The bottom line is simply this: We need another truck (I think we have only one of the big ones) in order to have a service once a month.
Despite what the management of leaf and limb services wants us to believe, we are not getting pickup every six weeks. I have waited many times eight to 10 weeks while the bags full of leaf and limb debris are rotting where I store them.
Dera is absolutely right. This is a service the city needs to provide. I know for a fact that other cities in Georgia (and elsewhere) pick up leaf and limb debris every week. One city is Rome, GA. My daughter puts debris out on the street by her curb unbagged, and the city picks it up every week.
We do pay plenty of taxes in Athens, and the city needs to consider that we are not asking for the impossible: an additional truck and drivers making at least $30 an hour.
Theresa Cullen Athens
Trump’s FBI Purge Is Dangerous
In case some readers are not up to date on current developments, President Donald Trump is now in the process of identifying everyone in the Department of Justice and the FBI who was involved in the investigation and/or prosecution of the Jan. 6 insurrectionists so that they can be fired, and he can replace them with his own loyalists. Trump has already fired a dozen top- tier officials at the FBI, and is collecting the names of any and all FBI agents who had any role whatsoever in the investigation and prosecution of those who attacked the Capitol. President Trump is placing both the Department of Justice and the FBI under his personal control to exact vengeance and retribution against all the hundreds or even thousands of FBI agents who, acting in accordance with the law, investigated the insurrection and obtained the conviction of those who attempted the violent overthrow of our government. The situation is absolutely clear, and the danger to the nation is more than obvious.
Bruce Menke Athens
Trump’s Executive Orders
President Donald J. Trump, acting without legal authority and in violation of the Constitution and laws of the United States, signed more than 200 pieces of paper he called “executive orders.” In those pieces of paper, he purported to shutter federal agencies, fire thousands of federal employees and suspend federal funding, all of which had been authorized by law. Some residents of U.S. House District 10 seem to think this is a great idea.
There are residents of our congressional district who seem to not care that
the Department of Education provides 26,000,000 healthy meals to school children; USAID saves millions of people who would have starved, is a cornerstone of American diplomacy and buys $2.1 billion dollars of farm products from farmers, including Georgians; Federal Aviation Administration employees are vital to safe operation of airports serving millions of Americans; Federal investments in renewable energy fight fossil fuel driven climate catastrophes, create thousands of good paying jobs and include $1 billion dollars in funding Georgia infrastructure; Federal law enforcement agents and judges protect our border from violent criminals and suppliers of deadly drugs; the CDC provides crucial scientific research that protects us from the constant, evolving threat of deadly disease; or that federal employees fight those who poison our air and water and protect us from workplace injury and death.
So why, exactly, does anyone in Congressional District 10, and anyone anywhere within our United States, think it is a great idea to gut our federal government and destroy the very agencies and agents that protect us? Do you care?
Shelbey Alexander Winder
Trump Isn’t Solving Problems
I didn’t vote for Trump. However, I listened to Trump’s inauguration speech because I wanted to see what he would say about significant issues facing working families. I’ve also observed his actions thus far.
Our health- care system is broken and wildly expensive. Not one word from Trump nor action taken to address this crisis. We pay the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs, and one out of four Americans is unable to afford the prescriptions that their doctors prescribe. Nothing from Donald Trump or Rep. Mike Collins on the high cost of medications.
We have a major housing crisis in America. We all know it, yet in his inaugural address, not one word was devoted to it. Nor has he signed an executive order empowering Elon Musk to address this issue facing families. Collins remains ignorant of the housing crisis.
During his speech, Trump didn’t have one word to say about how we are going to address the crisis of climate change. Extreme weather disturbances and natural disasters are taking place all across the U.S. With his and Collins’ “climate change is a hoax” mindset, Georgians can expect weather disturbances and disasters to increase in destruction and cost.
Since his inaugural speech, I have heard nothing from Trump, Musk or Collins addressing health care, housing or climate change—issues that affect working families. Instead, they’re more concerned about agencies’ DEI programs. Well folks, removing what’s offensive to the eye doesn’t do anything about what you face every day.
Peggy Perkins Winder
Fight Back Against Trump
Editor’s Note: District 8 Athens-Clarke County Commissioner Carol Myers submitted the text of a speech she gave at a women’s march on Mar. 8.
As a mother, grandmother, sister, friend, teacher, elected official, woman and human being, I’m tired of, so tired, from these first six weeks of the Trump regime. But I refuse
to let Trump and Elon and their team take away our joy. We have to be here for each other—to support each other, to stand up for what’s right.
We are living in the most critical moment of my 66 years. The America I knew all these years was not perfect by any means, but there were certain morals and values that were part of that America that I assumed would always be there: Creating a world where we strive to treat people equally, where we value diversity and inclusion; where we stand for human rights; where we fund a social support system and social security that helps the poor, the elderly and everyday working people; where freedoms of speech and religion are the norm; where scientific research and academic freedoms are valued; where climate change is real, and we work hard to stop it; where we stand by our allies in support of democracies; where a woman’s body is hers to control.
I turn around, and the world has changed. Trump and his MAGA fan club, along with his buddy Musk, have changed everything.
My daughter in Canada tells me of family and friends there boycotting American goods, but also worried about bombs from America and skirmishes at the borders. These are their fears. How can we do this to our neighbors?
I have young friends doing important work in the federal government keeping our water clean and working on the energy transition. One has lost her job, and the other is living day- to-day fearing that their job will be next on the chopping block.
Since Jan. 20 I open up my phone daily to new chaos—the dismantling of USAID, attacks on our transgender friends and immigrants, the abandonment of Ukraine, the rejection of the clean energy transition, the pardoning of the Jan. 6 violent attackers on our democracy. The list is endless. For the first time in our country’s history, we have a president turning his back on democracy and making friends with authoritarianism. And when Trump talked to congress Tuesday night, he didn’t say anything about the biggest crisis I hear about here in City Hall—affordable housing. This is not just a local issue, but a national crisis that should be forefront in Washington. Sixty percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Yet we have a team of oligarchs working with our American president to reduce taxes on the rich. Where are our priorities? Again and again, he’s making the victims into the villains, and the villains into the victims.
I am going to end with words Bernie Sanders shared this week that meant so much to me:
“Despair is not an option. Giving up is not acceptable. And none of us have the privilege of hiding under the covers. The stakes are just too high.”
Let us never forget. Real change only occurs when ordinary people stand up against oppression and injustice, and fight back. If we stand together and not let them divide us up by the color of our skin or where we were born or our religion or sexual orientation; if we bring our people together around an agenda and values that work for the many and not the few, we will win.
I close my eyes and think of my four grandchildren. I think of all our grandchildren. What other choice is there but to fight back?
Carol Myers Athens
Women’s History Month
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
March is Women’s History Month, and on Mar. 8—International Women’s Day—rallies for women’s rights happened worldwide. Here in Athens, women’s rights supporters gathered at City Hall in a local manifestation of a global movement that began in 1911, when the first International Women’s Day drew hundreds of thousands of participants during times of workplace uprisings and women’s suffrage campaigns in Europe and the United States.
The struggle for women’s rights is a long battle that continues today. In America today an unholy alliance of preachers and politicians carries the banners of theocracy and authoritarianism, “marching as to war” against their fellow Americans, including Americans who support women’s rights. History is being made today by those who dissent from this country’s present policies and instead hope to forge a livable world for the future.
Remembering the past can inspire the citizens of the present. Libraries could be filled with books by or about women. Here are just a few books that are readable and relevant during Women’s History Month or any time.
American Women’s History, edited by Doris Weatherford, is an entertaining compilation that bills itself as “An A to Z of People, Organizations, Issues and Events.” This book salutes women in America over a period of over 400 years, from the landing of the Mayflower to the present day. It is a concise, informative and indispensable reference book.
Women’s longtime right to abortion in America was a target for religious fundamentalists and reactionary politicians who finally got their wish when the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion was axed during Donald Trump’s
first term. In the 1990s—long before Roe v. Wade was overturned—a trio of women’s books about abortion put the issue before the reading public. Abortion—My Choice, God’s Grace: Christian Women Tell Their Stories, edited by Anne Eggebroten, is a powerful pro- choice answer to right- wing religious fundamentalists. It is dedicated “For women who have died for the right to choose.” The Choices We Made, edited by Angela Bonavoglia, is a collection of interviews with people both famous and unknown who were touched by the abortion issue. The Worst of Times by Patricia G. Miller takes readers back to a time not so long ago when women were maimed or killed by botched illegal abortions.
The Autobiography of Mother Jones by Mary Harris Jones tells the thrilling story of a feisty activist who led the labor movement in the early 20th century. Mother Jones was a colorful figure whose long and eventful life is chronicled in her autobiography. “I’m not a humanitarian. I’m a hell-raiser,” said Mother Jones.
Prisons That Could Not Hold by Barbara Deming was published by the University of Georgia Press here in Athens. Deming, who died in 1984, was for decades an activist in the civil rights, antiwar and feminist movements. This book documents her experiences in jails and at political rallies.
The early 1960s were a time of prescient and influential books by female authors.
In 1962 Rachel Carson published Silent Spring, an indictment of corporate pollution of America’s air, land and water that has become a classic volume of environmentalism. In 1963 Jessica Mitford exposed abuses by the U.S. funeral industry in her book The American Way of Death. In 1964 Barbara Tuchman’s The Guns of August brought World War I back to life 50 years after the conflict began in 1914. Her epic narrative about the war won a Pulitzer Prize and is regarded as one of the best books ever written about World War I.
Writer Dorothy Parker was one of the great wits of the 20th century whose mordant words put the roar of laughter into a time called the Roaring Twenties. She presided over the Algonquin Round Table group of New York literati a century ago, and her wry witticisms resonate today. The Portable Dorothy Parker is her collection of poetry and prose.
Madeleine Albright was the first woman to serve as U.S. secretary of state. She died in 2022, but her 2018 book Fascism: A Warning is a cautionary tale for today that she dedicated “To the victims of Fascism then and now and to all who fight Fascism in others and in themselves.” f
THURSDAY, MARCH 20 TH DAVID BIXLER TRIO FRIDAY, MARCH 21ST ANSLEY AND THE HOLD WITH DAVID BARBE SATURDAY, MARCH
your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe Our hotline is confidential, and counseling is
If your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and friends, and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are involved with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe for help. Our hotline is confidential, and counseling is free. Get your life back. Get help.
706-543-3331 Hotline, 24 hours/day Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia
If your partner objects when you use limits your everyday contact with family and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, confrontations, you need to step back another look. How can you cope once with a controlling partner? Call Project Our hotline is confidential, and counseling Get your life back. Get help.
706-543-3331
Hotline, 24 hours/day
Linea de crisis, las 24 horas
Dorothy Parker
Dance Ceremony
Georgia’s Medicaid Experiment
KEMP SAYS IT’S A SUCCESS, BUT THE NUMBERS TELL A DIFFERENT STORY
By Margaret Coker news@flagpole.com
This article was produced and originally published by nonprofit news organizations ProPublica and Savannah-based The Current.
In January, standing before a cluster of television cameras on the steps of the state Capitol, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp promoted his experiment in Medicaid reform as a showcase for fellow conservatives seeking to overhaul safety net benefits around the country.
“What we are doing is working,” Kemp boasted about Georgia Pathways to Coverage. The federally subsidized health insurance program is supposed to cover nearly a quarter-million low-income Georgians who can prove they are working, studying or volunteering.
What the governor did not disclose, however, was that his program is not achieving two primary goals: enrolling people in health care and getting them to work, according to an examination by The Current and ProPublica. The findings were confirmed recently by an independent evaluation commissioned by the state that has yet to be publicly released.
As of the end of 2024, the Pathways program has cost federal and state taxpayers more than $86.9 million, three-quarters of which has gone to consultants, The Current and ProPublica found. The state asserted that costs increased because of a two- year delay to the program’s launch, but did not provide evidence to support the assertion.
A mere 6,500 participants have enrolled 18 months into the program, approximately 75% fewer than the state had estimated for Pathways’ first year. Thousands of others never finished applying, according to the state’s data, as reports of technical glitches mounted. The state also never hired enough people to help residents sign up or to verify that participants are actually working, as Georgia required, federal officials and state workers said.
As a result, the Kemp administration has quietly rolled back a core tenet it heralded when it launched Pathways as an alternative to government entitlement programs for poor people that many conservatives
deride as handouts and the nanny state. Rather than verifying that people are working every month, Georgia is confirming that participants meet these requirements only at the time of enrollment and upon their annual renewal, the state said in January.
Georgia’s experience offers a warning for the nation as conservatives attempt to curtail federally subsidized health care for lowincome Americans, as outlined by Project 2025, the playbook designed for a second Donald Trump presidency. Congressional Republicans are pushing for deep cuts to Medicaid along with requiring recipients to work. Right now, Georgia is the only state that imposes a work requirement for Medicaid coverage. But more than a dozen largely Republican-led states already plan to seek approval from the Trump administration to impose work requirements on Medicaid enrollees.
Federal and state officials who have worked on Pathways say a litany of bad decisions, some technical and some political, doomed the program from meeting Kemp’s original goals. Even some lawmakers in Kemp’s own party want to pull the plug on Pathways.
The quarter-million people eligible for Pathways would have had an easier road to coverage had the state simply chosen to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, the 2010 health reform law that extended insurance to tens of millions of Americans, said Joan Alker, executive director of the Center for Children and Families at Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy. Kemp is one of 10 Republican governors who refused federal government subsidies to expand Medicaid under the belief that entitlement programs encourage freeloaders and are a drag on federal and state budgets. Sixteen percent of working-age residents in Georgia lack health insurance, one of the highest uninsured rates in the nation.
In response to Pathways’ low enrollment numbers, Kemp’s spokesperson Garrison Douglas said the governor never thought it was realistic to enroll the entire pool of eligible Georgians in the program. Douglas
said Kemp’s health care strategy for lowincome Georgians is superior to Medicaid expansion because it saves the state money and funnels participants into private health insurance, rather than what the Kemp administration has described as overregulated government-mandated plans that reimburse hospitals and doctors at lower rates.
“As the governor has said repeatedly, those who continue to promote full Medicaid expansion are selling Georgians a bill of goods,” he said.
The Pathways program is slated to sunset this fall, but Georgia has filed a request with the Trump administration to extend the experiment for another five years with the less stringent verification rules, as independent evaluators recommended. The Trump administration did not respond to requests for comment about its support for Medicaid work requirements and its views on Georgia’s Pathways experiment.
State officials did not explain why Georgia has not been able to meet its own verification standards. “The governor’s mandate for all state agencies is to continually seek ways to make government more efficient and accessible for hardworking Georgians,” Fiona Roberts, a Department of Community Health spokesperson, said in a written statement.
The state requires Pathways participants to work at least 80 hours a month or be enrolled in school, job training or volunteering—activities the governor’s office says it believes contribute to eventual “financial independence.” Health policy research shows that requiring low-income people to work for health insurance does not increase coverage or boost their economic circumstances because most of them already have jobs.
“If the goal truly is to increase health insurance for low-income Georgians, they are doing it wrong,” said Harry J. Heiman, a member of a state commission to study comprehensive health coverage and a professor at the Georgia State University School of Public Health. “The one thing that Pathways seems to do well is waste taxpayer money on consultants and administrative costs.”
Plagued by Tech Glitches
Pathways was supposed to help a group of Georgians whom the state had previously deemed ineligible for Medicaid: adults between 18–64 years old earning less than
$15,650 a year if they are single, or $32,150 for a family of four.
The state told the federal government in its application to experiment with Pathways that it hoped to enroll 25,000 of the 246,000 Georgians eligible for Pathways during the program’s first year. But those seeking coverage faced technical hurdles right away, according to interviews with six applicants as well as federal officials and current and former state employees.
The enrollment portal crashed each of the three times Kelsey Williams tried to apply. The single mother had been kicked off Medicaid last spring, after her son turned 1, per state law allowing her to keep her coverage for a year after giving birth. She called the Pathways customer service hotline for help and was sent through a phone tree that ended in a voicemail asking callers to leave a message.
“You’d go from one robot voice to another,” said Williams, who worked irregular hours as a convenience store clerk outside Macon.
No one called back. She gave up after nearly a month of trying. “I got the feeling that they really didn’t want to help me,” she said.
State officials have paid Deloitte Consulting more than $50 million so far for a software application that often froze and wiped out personal information, forcing applicants to start over. The technology also proved hard to navigate for many of Pathways’ target clients who don’t own smartphones or have access to reliable highspeed internet. As of January, the state’s own documents show that the program had a backlog of 16,000 applications awaiting processing, and in some months, upwards of 40% of people who started applications for Pathways gave up.
An independent evaluation from December, obtained by The Current and ProPublica, analyzed data gleaned from the first 13 months of the Pathways program, and noted that applicants experienced administrative barriers to enrollment. People 50 and older had an especially difficult time proving they met the requirements, the evaluation said. The program requires applicants to provide paperwork that verifies their work status, including pay stubs and tax documents. That protocol contradicts Medicaid regulations that states should use available data to confirm most eligibility criteria, when possible, instead of making people provide documentation.
For Georgians who did manage to enroll, the technology problems persisted when
they were required to verify each month that they had a job or were otherwise participating in a “qualifying activity.”
Paul Mikell lives in an area outside Atlanta without reliable internet service— and he doesn’t have the income for a phone plan with unlimited data. It takes him more than an hour each month to upload the employment documents necessary to reconfirm his eligibility, often using the free Wi-Fi at his public library. Sometimes, Mikell said, the task has stretched days, even a whole week, because the Pathways verification portal freezes or crashes. One time, he said, he waited eight days for customer support to retrieve a password and restore his access.
The 49- year-old works parttime for a hauling and trucking company in exchange for housing. He also picks up odd jobs to support his young son and elderly father. He does not receive traditional pay stubs that could be easily pulled by the state to verify his work status.
“It’s really, really difficult,” said Mikell, adding that stress over the possibility of losing coverage keeps him awake at night. “But it’s the only health care for someone like me.”
deemed acceptable by the state, according to state reports to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Those reports attributed the low numbers to a lack of “functionality” and did not provide further explanation.
The state’s contracts with Deloitte, which The Current and ProPublica obtained through a public records request, were heavily redacted and reveal no detail about the technical design of Pathways’ digital platform or how it would be tested before launch.
processing applications for other safety net benefits.
About 30% of the staff at Georgia’s Division of Family and Children Services that oversees benefits enrollment and employment verification had turned over between 2017 and 2022, according to state data. Former agency managers attribute the unusually high churn to a workforce fed up with low pay and high stress, exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.
In 2023, the year Pathways launched, the agency was already swamped. Caseworkers had started the time-intensive task of reenrolling the 2 million Georgians who had traditional Medicaid benefits, a process that happens every five years to ensure that participants still meet the requirements.
Mikell’s informal employment situation is typical for many low-income Americans who exist outside mainstream financial networks, and illustrates why verification can be an arduous process for programs with work requirements, said Jennifer Wagner, an expert in Medicaid enrollment technology at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a Washington think tank. In Georgia, 65% of people eligible for Pathways are employed at least part time, while many of the rest are tethered to unpaid work such as caregiving that Pathways does not recognize, state data shows.
To help automate the application and verification processes, Georgia uses digital tools to collect wage and work histories of employees at large companies as well as those who are self-employed. But these tools are not comprehensive, and the task of verifying applicants’ eligibility for Pathways largely falls on a cadre of overburdened caseworkers.
In August 2023, a month after Pathways launched, the state was only able to verify that 39 of the 152 enrollees were indeed working or otherwise engaged in activities
Deloitte declined to comment and referred questions about the technical difficulties to Georgia officials. Roberts, the spokesperson for Georgia’s Medicaid agency, referred to Pathways as “both a policy and technical success” but said it had to work through issues “consistent with the launch of a new program of similar scale and complexity.”
“Based on feedback from customers and the community, the state continues to evolve the Pathways program and its processes,” Roberts said in a written statement.
The state still requires Pathways recipients to upload paperwork every month, but Georgia is only verifying it annually, Roberts said. The state also says it is not kicking anyone off the rolls.
An Overwhelmed Workforce
Loosening Pathways’ verification process does not change what federal and state officials say is another fundamental flaw in the program: Getting people enrolled would ultimately hinge on an understaffed department already struggling to keep up with
Federal officials were simultaneously scrutinizing the department for its backlog of 157,000 food stamp applications and ordered it to develop a “corrective plan” to process those benefits more quickly. Georgia was also slipping behind the 45-day standard for processing Medicaid applications, according to federal data. Meanwhile, for approximately six months before Pathways started, caseworkers needed extensive training for the new program, further delaying reviews of food stamps and Medicaid applications, former managers said.
That spring, Kemp approved a temporary fix to the department’s workforce shortage: using federal grants to hire 300 additional caseworkers to handle the flood of Medicaid renewals. But state officials did not beef up staffing to handle Pathways applications, according to two federal employees and one former state manager, despite the fact that so much of Kemp’s political capital was riding on the program’s success.
The workload ballooned after Pathways’ launch in July 2023, according to three former caseworkers. “I’d go into work every day with piles and piles of files, and each of those files represented a real human being with real suffering,” said Deanna Matthews, who quit last year. “What people don’t realize is that some of us were processing food stamp applications and our families were struggling and needing food assistance as well.” (Starting salary for a caseworker who determines applicants’ eligibility for federal benefits is approximately $32,000—the same as the federal poverty line for a family
of four.)
In December 2023, the state agency overseeing DFCS moved 200 caseworkers who had been processing applications for Medicaid to tackle the backlog of food stamp applications.
In Pathways’ first six months, the department had enrolled just 2,300 people, according to state data.
In response to questions from The Current and ProPublica, Ellen Brown, a spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Human Services, said the state has committed enough people to administer Pathways but that it “can always use more caseworkers” and continues to hire.
At the state Capitol, Republican legislators representing rural counties, where large numbers of uninsured adults live, had begun questioning their governor’s push for Pathways. They sought advice from other Republican-led states that were expanding Medicaid without work requirements.
Arkansas had removed its work requirements after a federal judge ruled that such policies resulted in a significant number of people losing health coverage, which goes against Medicaid’s rules. The former head of North Carolina’s Medicaid agency testified to Georgia lawmakers that Medicaid expansion would boost local economies, rather than drag down state budgets, as many conservatives fear.
Last spring, a bipartisan group of Georgia lawmakers introduced bills in both the House and Senate to allow Medicaid expansion and let Pathways sink into oblivion. “What we’re doing so far just hasn’t seemed to work. And so, at some point, we’ve got to be open to more ideas,” Georgia state Sen. Matt Brass, a Republican from Newnan and co- sponsor of the bill, said during a committee hearing at the time.
But the measure never made it to a full vote in either chamber. Kemp quashed the rebellion after his allies in the legislature argued that Pathways needed more time to prove itself. Georgia awarded Deloitte a $10.7 million advertising contract last summer to create television, radio and social media spots encouraging enrollment and to tout the program at community events around the state.
As a new legislative session is underway, no bill to abandon Pathways in favor of expanding Medicaid has emerged. “We are focused on Pathways,” said state Rep. Lee Hawkins, a Republican dentist who represents the rural constituency of Gainesville. “We are going to build on what we’ve got and focus on making it better.” f
Gov. Brian Kemp announces changes to the Pathways program at a Jan. 15 news conference.
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Not a Drop to Drink
By Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com
A branch of the Athens Regional Library System located in north Athens is often forced to close due to frequent water shutoffs in the area, causing inconsistent access to public services for hundreds of residents.
The Pinewoods Library and Learning Center is a public library located in a mostly Hispanic neighborhood off U.S. Highway 29. Since opening in 2005, the Pinewoods Library has provided internet and computer access, English classes, children’s programming, tutoring, meeting space and translation assistance for north Athens residents, making it a vital part of the community.
One thing the Pinewoods Library can’t provide is a consistent schedule and stable hours of operation. Ever since August 2023, the library has had to close about twice a week on average, sometimes for hours at a time, according to branch manager Evelyn Rushing.
“After I started work [in this position], one day I noticed that the water to the library was cut off. I couldn’t understand why. I thought it was just for a month or so, but it’s been a year and six months, and nothing has been done,” Rushing said. “When we don’t have water, the library has to close. Sometimes we don’t have water from 9 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m.”
ner organizations and the school system to let them know our programs are shut down,” Rushing said. “Our library can’t work that way.”
Rushing said she was informed by email during the interview for this article of yet
water regularly from the nonprofit City of Refuge Athens so that library goers can have water to drink.
The Pinewoods Library is not connected to Athens- Clarke County water and sewer lines. Instead, it gets water from a well operated by its landlord, Pinewood Estates. Sheila Hudgins, the community manager for Pinewood Estates, said that they shut off the water to the library only when they have to make repairs to their aging water system.
“The community is on a well system, and we occasionally have a water line break. It’s an older park, we’ve had some older lines that broke, so the guys had to go in
essary to make the repairs.
However, Rushing said that the weather doesn’t seem to change the frequency of the water shutoffs, which happen just as often in the summer as they do in the winter. Furthermore, Rushing said that long shutoffs of five, six or seven hours happen frequently, requiring the library to be closed for an entire day.
Hudgins told Rushing in November that Pinewood Estates will build a 100-gallon reservoir tank so that the library could continue to have water access during repairs.
After four months, Pinewood Estates has not yet set a date for the reservoir tank’s installation as shutoffs continue to happen multiple times a week.
Without water, library patrons are unable to use the restroom, and library staff cannot clean or maintain sanitary conditions, prompting closure, often with little or no advance notice.
“When the library closes, I have to close all the programs. I have to contact our part-
another water shutoff for the following day, which would force her to close the library yet again. The library had to close in the afternoon the day before the interview due to the same water issue.
Even on days when the Pinewoods Library has access to water, Rushing advises library goers not to drink it for health reasons. “It smells like rotten eggs. It’s pretty bad,” she said. “We’re not able to drink it.”
The library receives donations of bottled
and turn the water off to the park so they could dig up the line and make the repair,” Hudgins said.
Hudgins blamed freezing pipes for most water line breaks in the park. She said that the archaic design of their water system requires them to shut off water access to the entire system whenever there is a problem in any part of it. She said the water is never shut off for more than two or three hours at a time and for only as long as nec-
Until this week, the Athens Regional Library System was in between directors after the retirement of Valerie Bell, but interim director Darla Chambliss called the water situation in Pinewoods “concerning.” She said she has been gathering information about the situation to brief new director Beth McIntyre, who started work Mar. 17 after previously leading the nearby Piedmont library system.
“It’s a horrible situation,” Chambliss said. “We are looking to do something about that, it’s very top-of-list. We want to be able to keep that library open and doing the fantastic work that it does.”
But after a year and a half of dealing with these conditions, Rushing is almost out of patience.
“This is a tiny library with a huge heart and with a lot of support from the community,” Rushing said. “[The water problem] needs to be fixed. I don’t understand why we’re going through this. Why doesn’t our library have water? Why can’t we drink the water when we do have it?”
The Pinewoods Library continues paying its employees on days when they don’t have water. If she knows about the water shutoff in advance, Rushing will have her employees do outreach to nearby schools or other parts of the community on days when the library is closed. f
The Continuing Joy of Art in Athens
LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER’S 50TH JURIED EXHIBITION
By Ashley Callahan arts@flagpole.com
The Lyndon House Arts Center (LHAC) hosted its first art exhibition, “The Joy of Art,” in August 1974 in the historic Ware-Lyndon House. Over a short two- week period, the organizers transformed the first floor of what was then being used as the recreational department into a white- walled gallery. At this time, the city was struggling to promote the visual arts, and in 1978 the Red and Black opined that Athens was “sadly lacking… an arts community.”
The paper did comment on a relationship that bode well for the future, though, remarking that UGA’s art department worked well with the LHAC because it was run by former art students. Those students were Nancy and Ronnie Lukasiewicz, who moved to Athens in 1973 to pursue their MFA degrees at UGA. Ronnie is credited with starting the LHAC, and Nancy served as its director from 1977–1999, then as its curator of exhibitions until 2016. The juried exhibitions have been held annually (except in 1997 and 1999 because of construction— the 1998 show was in the lobby of the Morton Theatre), with the 25th in 2000 being the first presented in the current modern expansion.
On Mar. 13, the LHAC opened its 50th Juried Exhibition with a gold- themed party, marking five decades of supporting art and artists in the Athens area, with submissions welcomed from AthensClarke and 14 other surrounding counties. The show reflects a thriving, well-established arts community, and Andrea Wellnitz, the LHAC facility and program supervisor, notes, “I am grateful to have the opportunity to spend my working days with the artwork in the Lyndon House Arts Center.”
Throughout its history, the LHAC has invited jurors from outside of Athens—except for the first year, when recently arrived art professor Glen Kaufman served as juror—to select the works to include in the annual exhibition. This brings fresh eyes to our local scene and raises the event’s profile as professionals across the county become involved. This year, the LHAC asked Michael Rooks, the Wieland family senior curator of modern and contemporary art at the High Museum in Atlanta, to curate the show. Rooks reviewed 835 works of art submitted by 307 Athens-area artists, and selected 151
works by 103 artists for inclusion. At the opening, he marveled at the “palpable sense of place” that he encountered in the submissions.
and Susie Burch’s watercolor of a kitchen sink in the morning sunshine). Among the few exceptions to this general quietude are Christopher Markiewicz’s comic-book- style creations and Richard Pruett’s large painting collages, one of which has the words, “Some paintings can’t be won” spray painted across it. There are several diminutive works that invite meditative moments, like Johntimothy Pizzuto’s mixed media and intaglio prints on panels, Hyekyung Han’s charming creations, and Ray Lee’s delicate colored pencil lines.
The group of works that visitors first see upon entering the light- filled atrium includes a quilted textile in rectangles of patterned forest colors by Sue Lawrence, with botanical subjects on either side, highlighting the nature theme. Upstairs, Laura Floyd explains her scene from Mars, stating, “Today I feel fortunate to be able to retreat into the meditative act of painting a natural scene. The larger and more immersive the piece is, the better it drowns out the stress of the world.” And Paul C. Blake writes of his colorful Nature #17, “I have chosen to attend to the timeless evolution of nature in contemporary times. I enter the wilderness without occupation, imposition, expectation or reservation.”
This perennially eclectic exhibition features several familiar and favorite names (Carol John, Carl Martin and Tad Gloeckler, for example) along with many newcomers. The selections are largely two-dimensional, with just a handful of sculptures and no jewelry. The overall tone of the show is peaceful, with plenty of depictions of the outdoors and domestic scenes (including an ink on paper image of a pleasing bookshelf full of odds and ends by Josh McDonald
Figurative works range from Frances Thrasher’s big-eyed characters to the very Athens photograph of a drummer at Nowhere Bar during AthFest by Erin Hendrick. In the statement accompanying her surrealist pastel “It Searches for Its Life’s Lost Child,” featured on the cover of this Flagpole issue, Emma Callicutt explains, “I am a young person acquainted with sentiments of hopelessness and discouragement about my future. For me, the creation of art functions as a response to these circumstances… I have come to see the creation of art, in and of itself, as a protest against the temptation to relinquish hope.” Ven Zhu’s moving “Eye of the Storm” lithograph also reflects a deeply personal approach: “Through my art, I strive to create a bridge between my culture and my evolving sense of self, becoming a product of my environment in the liminal space between migrating generations.”
A few other standouts include Madeleine Underwood’s “Thank You, Call Again,” with its repeated pattern of vintage printed receipts; a trio of trompel’oeil allegorical paintings by Scott Belville in one of the side galleries upstairs; Phoebe- Agnès Mills’s watery paintings; Hazel Halicki’s technically impressive 14-layer screen print “to pick a self and wear it” and Nancy Lambert’s pulsing arches of color in the fiber work “Surfs Up.”
The exhibition will be on view through May 10, and the Lyndon House Arts Center will host artist talks at 5:30 p.m. in the galleries on Thursday evenings on Apr. 10, 17 and 24 and May 1. f
Don’t Be a Herb
GROW YOUR PLANT KNOWLEDGE AT THE UGA HERBARIUM
By Erin France news@flagpole.com
The UGA Herbarium feels like a library. With its neatly organized, color- coded stacks of folders, buckets of archival glue and silently rolling shelves, the place gives that impression. Our local herbarium also connects to a teaching classroom and a lab for DNA testing. With more than a quarter million specimens, the herbarium is a place for experienced researchers, as well as beginners, to learn more about kingdom plantae.
“[The herbarium] is a collection of pressed and dried plants,” said Steven Hughes, collection manager. “It’s a genetic repository for people to get information from.”
The herbarium doesn’t just stock one specimen. Take the eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), the tree currently billowing dust storms of pollen into the air. There are 275 different samples of the eastern red cedar available for study. You can visit the Global Information Biodiversity Facility at gfib.org and search “University of Georgia” for the digital collection.
Such a large collection across different states and decades helps scientists assess the plasticity of a species. Plasticity describes how an organism changes its physical features to adapt to different environments. Collecting many specimens of the same plant in different locations also helps track if the population is growing, shrinking, moving or changing its flowering time, Hughes said.
on plants growing in the Southeast than other areas. “Generally speaking, the bias is towards locality,” Hughes said. Whether a plant is native or invasive doesn’t matter much. If it grows in Georgia, it’s fair game for the herbarium. Weeds also get collected and preserved for posterity. Some cultivated plants are kept in the records as well, but they are marked as such.
One of the many functions of an herbarium is helping identify new species. While this doesn’t happen often, it’s necessary to search through recorded specimens to make sure a particular plant hasn’t yet been documented.
The records themselves look like Mother Nature went with scrapbooking as her new favorite hobby. Each specimen is flattened and dried. The sample is carefully glued down, along with information about where and when it was collected. Additional notes about the person who collected it or what time the plant flowered can be included as well. Sometimes, small envelopes are added to the page to enclose particularly delicate structures, such as small, fluffy seeds.
Tanisha Williams, a professor of plant biology and curator of the herbarium, used herbarium records to show the South African-native common geranium (Pelargonium) blooms five days earlier than it did a century ago. Williams completed this research as part of finishing her doctorate in ecology and evolutionary at the University of Connecticut. She looked at many geranium specimens across national and international herbariums. “We needed several thousand records to pick up that five days,” Williams said.
The Athens herbarium does focus more
Recently, a researcher thought they’d found a cryptic Oxalis species, Hughes said. A cryptic is a species that looks the same, but is genetically different from the other species. This particular oxalis (also known as wood sorrel, and sometimes mistaken for clover because of the leaf shape) flowers at a different time than other samples. The herbarium allowed the scientist to check known records to test their theory. “It’s painstaking to determine,” Williams said. But, if you’re like me, you’re not aiming for ground-breaking research—you just want to learn more about plants. Nonresearchers can learn from the herbarium as well, though it’s not like a museum. “We don’t have things on display,” Hughes said.
“But people can still schedule tours with us,” Williams added.
Interested folks will need to make an appointment for a general tour. The herbarium hosts groups like the 4-H, Trees Atlanta and the Department of Natural Resources for fun and educational classes. Opportunities for public activities, like pressed plant art, are posted on the group’s Instagram @ugaherbarium.
I’ll be keeping an eye out for the public events myself. While a general tour gave me an idea about how the herbarium works, I’d love to take a botany class with these knowledgeable plant people. f
Tanisha Williams, curator of the herbarium, and Steven Hughes, the collection manager, pour over herbarium records. The UGA herbarium contains more than 270,000 plant records.
Local indie pop band of Montreal is returning for a special performance celebrating the 20th anniversary of the album Sunlandic Twins. Of Montreal was founded in 1996 by Kevin Barnes, who met original bandmates Derek Almstead (Circulatory System, Marshmallow Coast, Elf Power) and Bryan Poole (Elf Power) after relocating to Athens and becoming involved with the Elephant 6 Collective. This combo went on to record the debut of Montreal album, Cherry Peel, released in 1997. The band has seen a variety of lineups over the years, but remains fronted by Barnes, who will be performing the entirety of Sunlandic Twins for its anniversary in a show complete with signature intricate stage theatrics. Aquarium Drunkard writer J. Crosby says of the album, “it is an experience, and one full of sensory lavishness,” much like the live show promises to be. Atlanta cowboy pop band Sunset Honor Unit will open. [Mary Beth Bryan]
THEATER | MAR. 20–23
in the space between the tangible and the surreal and embraces the dark underside. Club Silencio’s lineup includes Jennifer Skura Boutell, Jeffrey Bützer, TT Mahon, Ben Davis, Matt Steadman, Henry Jack and Sean Zearfoss. Don Chambers and his band will open the show with a noir blend of mood music. [MB]
The Modern Pin-Ups are celebrating their 15th year in operation with a special
The Art of Noticing
Cellar Theatre • Times Vary • FREE!
The Art of Noticing is a play that weaves through the interconnected lives of its eight main characters. From small slivers of life like one-off interactions with strangers or quiet, unassuming moments with loved ones to bigger ones like heartbreak or the beginning of a friendship, the story explores how complex and often magical life can be and how the meaning of humanity can be found in its inherent interconnectivity. The production is presented by UGA Theatre and is a part of the New Georgia grant for supporting risk- taking, creative and expressive student projects. There will be performances of The Art of Noticing at 8 p.m. on Mar. 20–22 and a 2 p.m. matinee on Mar. 23. [MB]
Commemorating the work of the director David Lynch, Club Silencio will be bringing the iconic music of Eraserhead, Blue Velvet, Wild at Heart, Inland Empire and Twin Peaks to the stage. Club Silencio first debuted in 2017 and is returning in the wake of the auteur’s death earlier this year. The concert follows Ciné’s recent hosting of select Lynch films following this loss. Like Lynch’s work, the band’s sound balances
The Shoebox Project FOOTWEAR
DISTRIBUTION FOR THOSE IN NEED
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Clarke Central High School student Noah Kilpatrick found a way to connect his passion for running to a community service project for the Eagle Scouts, resulting in a uniquely impactful opportunity that engages multiple communities within Athens.
The Eagle Scout project is the last step in becoming a full Eagle Scout, and scouts submit a detailed proposal to the organization’s board for a project that benefits the community. Once approved, the scout works with a project coach and must show leadership skills by working with a team and members of the community to see their project through. Kilpatrick has developed The Shoebox Project, a sustainable means of recycling gently used athletic shoes and making them accessible to those in need—similar in concept to the Little Free Pantry or Lending Library systems.
emails and doing all this stuff, I now have a box and I have like 300 pairs of shoes,” says Kilpatrick. “People are already like, ‘Oh, hey, is it too late?’ I’m getting emails from my fellow runners… I’m like, ‘No, it’s never going to be too late.’ That’s the whole system.”
The Athens Road Runners group owns The Shoebox Project in the sense that it will continue the maintenance and management of the project in the future. One of the challenges has been that there has to be two marketing outreach campaigns: one for people to donate, and one for people to pick up the shoes. However, the system has been running smoothly and will only improve as awareness spreads in the community.
dance performance entitled “Crystal.” The local dance group was founded in 2010 by Grace Bagwell Adams to give women of all levels of dance experience a place to learn more about the craft and perform. Ever since, it has promoted diversity and empowerment amongst its members. Adams is also the founding director of the dance groups Normaltown Tap Company and Speakeasy, taught with Dancefx Athens for 14 years and contributes to community projects like Project Safe’s Dancing with the Athens Stars. The Modern Pin-Ups perform pieces in a variety of genres, including burlesque style jazz, musical theatre, hip hop and tap. [MB]
LITERATURE | SUN, MAR. 23
Bill King Author Talk
ACC Library • 3 p.m. • FREE!
Local journalist Bill King’s newest book, LARGE TIME: On the Southern Music Beat, 1976-1986, covers a range of Southern performers, from The Allman Brothers Band to Dolly Parton to Athens legends R.E.M. King spent a great deal of his career covering pop music, television and film for the Atlanta Journal Constitution, a time during which he interviewed and saw performances by countless musicians like Billy Joel, Dionne Warwick and Frank Zappa. He draws from his wealth of knowledge and experience in the music industry for LARGE TIME, much of the research for which came from his own archive of past writing and interviews. This event will include a discussion of the book and an audience Q&A session with Bill King and David Hinchberger, who wrote the book’s prologue. [MB] f
As a cross country and track runner as well as member of the Athens Road Runners, Kilpatrick explains that runners have training shoes that they generally stop wearing after three to four months, and these still perfectly fine shoes often pile up in people’s closets. Knowing there’s a surplus of good athletic shoes in the community collecting dust, The Shoebox Project provides people with a way to donate them knowing they’re going to a good cause.
There are three donation bins designed as shoeboxes located at The Sparrow’s Nest on Prince Avenue, the Salvation Army on Hawthorne Avenue and Fleet Feet on South Lumpkin Street. Anyone can donate shoes to these locations during business hours, and anyone in need of free shoes can visit for a free pair.
“Once I got the project approved, I went and met with a bunch of different groups in the community to figure out where I’m going to put these boxes and get their opinions on how I should best create the project so it can benefit the most people, because they know more about the communities that I’m trying to serve than I do,” says Kilpatrick. “I talked to The Sparrow’s Nest, and they really liked the project idea. They were like, ‘Look, we will sponsor your boxes. We’ll sponsor the whole project for you.’”
After a year of planning the project, Kilpatrick kicked off the initial donation drive at Fleet Feet at the end of January. More than 300 shoes were collected. The Salvation Army hosted a giveaway event at the end of February that kicked off the second phase of the project, but moving forward people who wish to donate or pick up shoes will be able to do so at any time.
“Seeing the project progression in my mind and having the motivation to keep going and get the steps happening even though there was no real physical, tangible items that I had for over a year—it was really rewarding when all of a sudden all this time that I’ve spent writing these
“Outside of the running community, the concept that people just have 80 pairs of shoes lying in their closet is really weird, because why would you have that? It doesn’t make any sense. But this makes perfect sense to me, and it makes perfect sense to runners. The people that I was trying to convince about the project, it was very hard for them to get why it would even work. So, just kind of having to create that elevator pitch and get the ideas across and work that out, that was a big struggle for me. But this project taught me a lot about communication,” says Kilpatrick.
“That part to me as a parent has been really neat to watch, and how he’s had to professionally ask people to set up the volunteers, manage the other scouts, ask his friends, ask adults, you know, that kind of thing,” says Rhia Moreno, Kilpatrick’s mother and project coach, in addition to professor at Augusta University and local runner. “I had to do a rough calculation of our time spent from everybody that has donated time to the project. And I came out to a rough estimate of over 145 hours. So it’s been a lot of work from everybody.”
For more details about the shoebox locations and operation hours, visit bit.ly/ 4aipSQv. f
The Modern Pin-Ups
Noah Kilpatrick
Anda Union
To Live And Shave In L.A. Box Set
PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
BUT BEFORE THEN: Pre-orders were very briefly open for the new split 7” single between Jay Gonzalez (Drive By Truckers) and Sloan Brothers, which is named, simply enough, Jay Gonzalez vs. Sloan Brothers. It arrives courtesy of Chunklet Industries This four- song record—two from each artist—is now completely sold out online, but you can still grab the digital files for a couple of bucks. These records were a very limited edition and lathe- cut (i.e. each was crafted individually by hand). If you’ve even a passing familiarity with these two, then you know you’re in for some sweet pop goodness of the 1970s bubblegum variety. In the interest of full disclosure, note that I have worked extensively with Sloan Brothers over the past few years. I had nothing to do with this particular record, though. The official release date is Friday, Apr. 11, and since you’re already getting excited for the show at Flicker Theatre and Bar that night, go ahead and prepare yourself to arrive early. I have it on exceptionally good authority that a small handful of records were held back specifically for sale at this show. These two superstars will be onsite celebrating this release from 7–9 p.m., and Gonzalez is playing a live set, too. To preview and order, please see chunklet. bandcamp.com.
WORTHY OF THE LAMB: There’s been a reissue fever happening with Athens and Athensrelated music over the past few years, but this one I’m about to mention is extra special. Palilalia Records, run by noise/experimental legend Bill Orcutt and also the label responsible for Shane Parish’s spectacular Repertoire, is releasing a—wait for it—four-LP boxed set of The Wigmaker in Eighteenth- Century Williamsburg by the aggressive and often brutal To Live And Shave In L.A. This was the experimental collective founded by Tom Smith (Peach Of Immortality, Boat Of) and Miami’s Frank “Rat Bastard” Falestra in 1993 after Smith decamped to South Florida. The history of this album in particular is long and specific, and Orcutt does a much better job in the release notes than I have space to do here, so please read those. Carrying on, then, this set also includes a 36-page book replete with an essay by Matmos’ Drew Daniel, a 10,000- word oral history, photos, art, etc. There is also another, separate new LP of completely unreleased tracks from the original album sessions. Pre-orders are being accepted as we speak, and note that this is priced correctly for today’s market at $110 for the four-LP box and $135 for the box plus fifth LP bundle. I guarantee you this will sell out, so if you’re game for one of the single best albums this genre has ever
taken credit for, then hop over to toliveandshaveinla- wig-box.bandcamp.com. These will ship out on Apr. 10, which would have been Smith’s, who passed away in 2000, 69th birthday.
DRINK DEEP AND DESCEND: The rarely-performing Atlanta-based David Lynch tribute combo Club Sliencio will perform at Ciné on Friday, Mar. 21. Don Chambers will open the show and perform with a full band. Club Silencio performs music from Lynch films like Blue Velvet, Wild At Heart, Twin Peaks, Eraserhead and Inland Empire Doors open at 7 p.m., Don Chambers and his band will perform at 8 p.m. and Club Silencio will populate your consciousness at 9 p.m. It’s $12 in advance and $15 at the door. For more information, please see athenscine.com.
EVERYBODY GET TOGETHER: The next Athens GATV Meetup for Content Creators takes place Tuesday, Mar. 25 at ATHICA (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1200) from 7–9 p.m. This is, of course, a regular event hosted by AthensGATV, which is a project underneath the auspices of musician and artist Mux Blank and, at least tangentially, related to his collective ongoing concern JokerJokerTV. The crux of these meetups is for content creators and other creative types to get together, network and enjoy panel discussions from a pretty wide swath
of the Athens creative community including communities you may not have even known existed. The panel is moderated by Flagpole’s own editorial coordinator and music editor Sam Lipkin, and the panelists are Alissa Tillman (WhosLissa, HugYoself. LoveYoself), Fajr DeLane (F3: Fun. Fit. Fabulous), Jennine DeLane (UGA SNAPEd, Farm to Neighborhood, Indigenous Community Solutions), and Akeeme Martin (DJ Blacque Starr, Onyx Echelon 85 Enterprises, LLC, The OE85 Movement). For more information, please see facebook. com/athensgatv and check out recordings of past meetups over at youtube.com/@ athensgatv. f
live music calendar
Tuesday 18
Ciné
8 p.m. FREE! www.athenscine.com
KARAOKE WITH THE KING Every first, third and fifth Tuesday.
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.”
OF MONTREAL Long-running psych-pop group known for its outlandish stage presence. Playing Sunlandic Twins from start to finish to celebrate its 20th anniversary!
SUNSET HONOR UNIT Sentimental pop from Atlanta comprised of dueling songwriters Drew Kirby (Mothers, CDSM) and Jake Chisenhall (Delorean Gray).
COLBY ACUFF Country singersongwriter from Idaho signed to Sony Music Nashville. 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 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
DAVID BIXLER TRIO Featuring David Bixler on saxophone, Dan Loomis on bass and Fabio Rojas on percussion.
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $40–80. pac.uga.edu
ANOUSHKA SHANKAR Worldfamous sitar player performing her trilogy of mini-albums: Chapter I: Forever, For Now, Chapter II: How Dark it Is Before Dawn and Chapter III: We Return to Light Nowhere Bar 9 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga OXYSTAR Alternative and stoner metal mixed with shoegaze and space rock. THE CLEANERS New band.
Friday 21
Akins Ford Arena
7 p.m. $29–170. www.classiccenter. com
BRANTLEY GILBERT Country rock singer, songwriter and producer from Jefferson whose sound mixes rock guitars with country twang.
BLACK STONE CHERRY Classic Southern rock band formed in Kentucky in 2001.
AUSTIN SNELL Musician fusing hard-rocking sonic aggression with the deep-feeling confessions of a country troubadour.
COLT FORD Genre-defying country artist who fuses country, rap and Southern rock.
ANSLEY AND THE HOLD Southern pop rock outfit with indie roots that blends heartfelt lyrics, carefully crafted guitarmony and melodies that stick with you like a song you forgot you loved.
DAVID BARBE Local luminary and studio engineer who has played in Mercyland and Sugar.
COUNTRY RIVER BAND Classic western and honky-tonk style country band with line dancing in between the breaks.
Saturday 22
Athentic Brewing Co.
8 p.m.–12 a.m. $10. www.athentic brewing.com
NOCHE DE BAILE Mr. Clahvay, TIMBAthens and SALSAthens host a monthly dance social with the latest Latin music. The evening kicks off with a 45-minute dance class.
DUNUMS The artsy, noisy, postrock improvisations of Sijal Nasralla.
BAYOU PRINCESS Your favorite internet narcissist.
VIV AND THE THINGS Alternative country noise for sweetie pies.
The Foundry
Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15 (adv.), $20. bit.ly/NefeshMountainAthens NEFESH MOUNTAIN Boundarypushing progressive bluegrass band formed by Doni Zasloff and Eric Lindberg. Album release show! Hendershot’s
ATHENS UNPLUGGED Local favorites performed stripped down sets in the style of MTV Unplugged. Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture
7 p.m. $20–50. www.marigold auditorium.com
VINTAGE VIXENS Band rockin’ a retro sound and inspired by ’60s fashion.
Nowhere Bar
7 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). www. instagram.com/nowherebarathensga RUBBER UDDER Self-described weirdo experimental acid punk/ noise-grunge thing from Athens. HONEYPUPPY Four-piece indie rock band self-described as a “menace to society.”
HOG-EYED MAN Athens duo of Jason Cade (fiddle, banjo) and Rob McMaken (dulcimer, mandolin), who have a compelling approach to the archaic fiddle traditions of the Southern Appalachians.
Paloma Park
1 p.m. $15. www.palomapark.com
BIRD & BYRON Nashville-based rock and soul duo.
HEFFNER Indie rock band whose genre influences include power pop, post-punk and ’70s glam.
THE CARTWHEELS Local jazz pop band.
SUNDAY DRIVER ’90s cover band that captures the hits that ruled the radio.
Sunday 23
Buvez
8:30 p.m. $7. www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens
JOHN KIRAN FERNANDES & ARIANNA PETERSEN Local musicians playing as a clarinet and cello duo.
JOE CAT Athens-based Americana singer-songwriter and troubadour.
The Classic Center
3 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com
ATHENS SYMPHONY Spring concert with a program bridging the elegance of the Old World with the energy of the New, bringing centuries of music to life.
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
ACROCENTRIC Duo featuring violinist Keiko Ishibashi and bassist Chris Enghauser that merges the passionate rhythms of tango, the sophistication of crossover classical, the improvisational flair of jazz and the lively energy of folk dance.
SPONDEE Improvised electroacoustic duo of Marc Gilley on saxophone and Louis Romanos on drums.
Madison-Morgan Cultural Center
4 p.m. $40. www.mmcc-arts.org
JULIE & DAVID COUCHERON
Sibling violin and piano duo performing a chamber iteration of Beethoven’s Triple Concerto alongside Atlanta Symphony Principal Cellist Daniel Laufer.
UGA Fine Arts Theatre
7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $20. pac. uga.edu
LA FINTA GIARDINIERA UGA
Opera Theatre returns to perform one of Mozart’s first operas, a surreal romp of requited and unrequited love.
MANTRA Indie alt-pop-rock weird thing from Charleston, SC.
DADGUM Local gaggle of softies playing tunes ranging from altcountry ballads, bubbly power pop and blasé indie rock.
KIT Athens-based kaleidoscopic rock band expanded from the eponymous solo project Catt Malonius.
Monday 24
Porterhouse Grill
7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast.
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. pac. uga.edu
“WELCOME HOME” The three newest faculty at the Hugh Hodgson School of Music–professor of cello James Kim, newly appointed assistant professor of saxophone Brandon Quarles, and newly appointed assistant professor of piano Alan Woo–perform a wide range of music highlighting their individual skills.
UGA Special Collections Library
7:30 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu
THE GOLDEN AGE OF BROADWAY UGA students will perform classic show tunes and deep cuts.
DOGWOOD TALES Five-piece altcountry from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, influenced by the eclectic DIY scene in Harrisonburg. YOUR EX’S PETS Haunting, groovy, soft-loud songs with vocal harmonies and layered arrangements.
JULIA BARFIELD Young singersongwriter with roots in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. 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.” Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $49–99. pac.uga.edu
MAHLER CHAMBER ORCHESTRA & MITSUKO UCHIDA Celebrated pianist and director Mitsuko Uchida is joined by the Mahler Chamber Orchestra to perform two of Mozart’s piano concertos.
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday. El Paso Tacos & Tequila 6–10 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY Every Wednesday. Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring pop, rock, indie and more. Georgia Theatre Rooftop
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.georgiatheatre.com PENNY LOAFER Local “postcollege rock” band delivering grunge-tinged pop with sweet yet sometimes vicious compositions. Debut EP release show! VIV AND THE THINGS Alternative country noise for sweetie pies. RECESS PARTY Local indie-rock band with a self-described collage of rock, funk and alternative.
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 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga
F.O.R. Trio of Neal Fountain, Erik Olson and Jeff Reilly. Porterhouse Grill
7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast.
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
UGA HORN CHOIR An ensemble of both horn majors and nonmajors attending the Hugh Hodgson School of Music. f
event calendar
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/baddogathens
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/MellowMushroomAthens
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
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: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $20–43. www.classiccenter.com
THEATER: 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.flyingsquidcomedy.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.athensfarmersmarket.net
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/shihtzunottrivia
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: 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: 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.athenslibrary.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
OUTDOORS: ‘Normal’ Run (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join the Athens Road Runners for a 1–3 mile run that starts and ends at Athentic Brewing. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
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
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
Thursday 20
ART: Curator Talk (Richard B. Russell Special Collections Library) Sara Idacavage will give a gallery talk on the newest exhibition “From Farms to Fast Fashion: Unraveling the Need for Sustainable Style.” 6 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu
ART: Opening Reception (Clarke Central High School) The international exhibition “Anne Frank: A History for Today” will be on view with music from the CCHS string orchestra. 6 p.m. FREE! www. clarke.k12.ga.us/o/cch
ART: Closing Reception (The Taylor-Grady House) The exhibition “Unseen Narratives” features alternative process photography by Boyce Clark. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www. taylorgrady.com
CLASSES: Spring Equinox Yoga (The Tree Room) Special yoga session celebrating the new season. 6 p.m. $25. www.shaktiyogaathens. com
CLASSES: Yoga in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy a yoga class in the art galleries led by instructors from Five Points Yoga. Open to all skill levels. First come, first served. 6 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
EVENTS: Supper Club (Farmview Market) Celebrate the month of March with a Mississippi pot roast or meatloaf supper. 4:30–7 p.m. $13.99 & up. www.farmviewmarket. com
EVENTS: Madison Antiques & Fine Things Preview Night (The Hall on Foster) Browse antique vendors while enjoying cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, bourbon tasting, live music and early buying options. 6–9 p.m. $50. www.madisonantiquesandfinethings.org
EVENTS: Get Comfortable Fundraiser (Rivet House) An evening of local entertainment, food, and both live and silent auctions in benefit of ACC literary programs and educational initiatives. 6–9 p.m. $150. www.creaturecomfortsbeer.com
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: 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.johnnyspizza.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Foundry) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens
KIDSTUFF: Open Play (Oconee County Library) Drop in for playtime that’s focused on encouraging early literacy and brain building. Ages 5 & under. 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in to free build and create, or do one of the fun LEGO challenges. Ages 5–12. Thursdays, 3:30–5:30. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Read to Rover (Bogart Library) Drop in to read a story to Maisy Jane and her furry friends. Ages 4 & up. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teens Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) Join the volunteer led role-playing adventure where you can fight dragons, join an army, go on a quest in distant lands and more. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
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
PERFORMANCE: Dancing Through Frozen (Morton Theatre) Dancefx presents a performance of the Disney movie, inviting the audience to sing along. Mar. 20, 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Mar. 21, 6:30 p.m. $10–13. bit.ly/dfx-dtf
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $20–43. www.classiccenter.com
THEATER: Our Town (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) Winterville Players present the classic American play that explores the beauty and fragility of everyday life in a small town. Mar. 20–21, 7 p.m. Mar. 23, 2 p.m. $10 (students), $15. www.marigoldauditorium.com
Friday 21
COMEDY: Knock Knock, Who Cares (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Group of improv performers who often perform longer narrative stories. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Madison Antiques & Fine Things (The Hall on Foster) Browse antique vendors and attend lectures by acclaimed interior designers, floral designers, architects and landscape architects. Mar. 21–22, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $15. www.madisonantiquesandfinethings.org
EVENTS: Ecstatic Dance (Feel Free Yoga + Wellness) Join in mindful movement and dance with featured musicians Libbaloops and DJ Charlieflower, concluding with an
electronic sound bath and tea bar. 5:30 p.m. $20. www.feelfreeyogawellness.com/events
GAMES: Chess Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Join others for a weekly chess competition. Fridays, 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.wintervillecenter.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: 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: Musical Theatre and Franco-American Cultural Exchange (UGA Fine Arts Building) Daniel Smith will discuss the translation and reproduction of the offBroadway hit Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris. 10:20 a.m. FREE! calendar.uga.edu
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (UGA Miller Learning Center) Dr. Diana Graizbord will discuss her book Indicators of Democracy: The Politics and Promise of Evaluation Expertise in Mexico. 3 p.m. FREE! lacsi.uga.edu
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (ATHICA) Author and poet Joy Priest will read from her work as part of the University of Georgia Creative Writing Program through its Graduate Students Reading series. 7 p.m. FREE! english.uga. edu
PERFORMANCE: Dancing Through Frozen (Morton Theatre) Dancefx presents a performance of the Disney movie, inviting the audience to sing along. Mar. 20, 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Mar. 21, 6:30 p.m. $10–13. bit.ly/dfx-dtf
THEATER: Our Town (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) Winterville Players present the classic American play that explores the beauty and fragility of everyday life in a small town. Mar. 20–21, 7 p.m. Mar. 23, 2 p.m. $10 (students), $15. www.marigoldauditorium.com
Saturday 22
ART: Craft Swap (Bogart Library) Bring crafting or art supplies you’ll never use to swap with others. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
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
COMEDY: Maria Bamford (The Classic Center) Known for her deeply personal and experimental comedy about mental illness and voiceover work. 7:30 p.m. $21.50–51.50. www.classiccenter.com
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.athensfarmersmarket.net
EVENTS: Madison Antiques & Fine Things (The Hall on Foster) Browse antique vendors and attend lectures by acclaimed interior designers, floral designers, architects and landscape architects. Mar. 21–22, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $15. www.madisonantiquesandfinethings.org
EVENTS: Grand Opening (Redstone Market + Butcher) Celebrate the new market’s opening with live music, tastings, book signings, local artisans and a kids corner. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.redstonemarket. com
EVENTS: Spring Fling Art and Oddities (Farmington Depot) Browse goods from artists, doers and collectors from the surrounding area. Mar. 22–23, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. zigzaghjh@gmail.com
EVENTS: Spring Open House and Seminars (Classic City Flowers & Nursery) Get advice for spring planting from experts then tour the greenhouses and grounds. 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.classiccityflowers.com
EVENTS: Secret Record Swap (Athentic Brewing Co.) Vendors from around the Southeast will be buying, trading and selling records, CDs, tapes, books, posters, DVDs and more. 11 a.m. (early admission). $5. 12–6 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com
EVENTS: Resource Fair (Lay Park Community Center) The Backpack Project of Athens hosts different local service providers, government departments and student organizations to provide community resources. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE! www.athens.thebackpackproject.ngo
EVENTS: Cycle Disciples Bike Blessing (Cycle World Athens) Bring your motorcycle for a blessing and enjoy free food, live music and shop various vendors. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. www.cmausa.org
EVENTS: Log House Open House (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Join staff to explore the house built in the 1790s, play games, make a craft and listen to a story. Registration suggested. 1–4 p.m. $3. www. accgovga.myrec.com
EVENTS: Historic Athens Heritage Walk (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Learn about the history of the Sandy Creek Nature Center that encompasses 225 acres of woodlands and wetlands. 2 p.m. $25. www. historicathens.com
FILM: Tokusatsu Club (ACC Library) Screening of the 1963 Japanese fantasy-adventure film Lost World of Sinbad. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
FILM: Banff Mountain Film Festival (Morton Theatre) The festival showcases a selection of adventure, mountain sports and culture speakers, films, books and photographs from around the world. 7 p.m. $20. www.mortontheatre.com
GAMES: Day of Board Game Demonstrations (Tyche’s Games) Try new games and watch how they’re played. 12 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
KIDSTUFF: Indian Spring Festival Celebration (Oconee County Library) Learn about Holi and other seasonal Indian festivals, and enjoy music, dance, crafts and more. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
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 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 PROJ-
ECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals residing in Georgia to develop an art exhibition to be on display for 6–8 weeks at the LHAC. A stipend of $1,500 is provided. www.accgov. com/9799/ArtistCurator
CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls)
Amici is seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email
an introduction and a few examples of work. careywelsh20@gmail.com
CALL FOR ART (Oconee County Library) The library is seeking local artists to share their artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email adial@ athenslibrary.org
CALL FOR ART (Rook & Pawn) Rook & Pawn is seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email kendallmcquoid@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 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) JOKERJOKERtv 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 (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.
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.
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.) “Confluence III: Clarke County High School Students Pop-up” will be on display through Mar. 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 environ-
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 of objects found in the closets, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. Email shelby.little@accgov.com
CIRCULATING STAMP PROJECT (Multiple Locations) 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 information.
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. 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), “Three Hook Rack” (Apr. 5), “Fire Poker” (Apr. 12), “Blacksmith Tongs” (Apr. 26), “Spear” (May 3) and “Bottle Opener” (May 10). Visit website for costs and details. www.greenhow handmade.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. 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.), “Homebuyer Education” (Mar. 26, 9:30 a.m.) and “Fair Housing” (Apr. 7, 5:30 p.m.). Visit website for full list. www.athens landtrust.org/classes-events
ment. • 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 be on view through March.
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. • Over 150 works for the 50th Juried Exhibition will be on view through May 10.
MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) Atlanta artist Robert Miller presents a special exhibition of abstracted works called “All Over the Pallet” that runs through Apr. 19.
OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville)
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, Through Apr. 15. Morning and evening sessions available. Email info@sosuin.org for information.
COOKING AND BAKING CLASSES (Athens Cooks) Upcoming classes include “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
PÉTANQUE CLUB OF ATHENS (5 Alumni Dr.) Learn to play Pétanque. RSVP for a free Wednesday introduction. www.athenspetanqueclub. 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
WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE (AKF Athens Martial Arts) Registration open for 6-week course teaching physical techniques for escaping dangerous situations as well as confidence building. Begins Apr. 9. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $40. Scholarships available. www.akfathens.com
YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) A multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering yoga and therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed practices. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.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
Featured exhibit “Youth Art Month” will be on view through May 9. PORCELAIN AND DECORATIVE ARTS MUSEUM (2450 S. Milledge Ave.) Two new collections celebrating the connection between art and nature include a complete Jasperware tea set from Wedgewood in England and a series of hand-carved coconut vessels.
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave) 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. Closing reception Mar. 20 from 6–9 p.m.
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.
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.
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/animal servicesvolunteer/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 (Athens FOL) The Friends of the Library Board of Directors are currently accepting applications for new members. Must be a current member of the FOL and available for monthly meetings plus various volunteer opportunities. Applications online. Deadline is Apr. 4. www. friendsofacclibrary.org
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 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 March. 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 season is now open. A variety of programs for all ages are available. www.accgov.com/ myrecs, 706-613-CAMP
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 (Merit Music Academy) Registration for a variety of Summer Camp classes is now open. Offering puppetry, piano, and ukulele camps with crafts, snacks and performances. Visit MeritMusic Academy.com/summercamp 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 April 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
ACA ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS AND DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) This support group meets weekly. Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. annetteanelson@gmail.com
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
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
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (Multiple Locations) Do you worry about the way you eat? OA may have the answer for you. Meetings held Tuesdays, 12 p.m. at 24th Street, Inc. and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Text 678-736-3697 about Tuesdays or 706-224-4919 about Saturdays. www.oa.org
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP
(First Baptist Church) This group is to encourage, support and share information with fellow sojourners who manage the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders. Second Friday of the month, 1 p.m. gpnoblet@ bellsouth.net
PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT
(Chase Park Warehouses) A peerled support group of people who understand the depth of love and grief for animal companions. 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. Walking Group on most Tuesdays, 9 a.m. Meditation Meetings on Thursdays, 7 p.m. Monthly Fellowship on third Thursdays. www.athensrecovery dharma.org
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE (Nuçi’s Space) SOS is a support group for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide. Meets the third Wednesday of every month, 5:30–7:30 p.m. www.nuci.org
Word on the Street
BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations are located across Athens with tools, an air pump and a QR code for quick guides on basic bike repairs. Visit the website for participating locations. www.accgov. com/10584/Bike-Repair-Stations CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box presents true short stories shared by community members. Submit story ideas for upcoming shows. Themes include “Road Trip!” (Apr. 22) and “Soundtrack of My Life” on (May 27). www.rabbit box.org/tell
FILM LOCATION DIRECTORY
(Athens, GA) The Athens Film Office, part of the ACCGov Communications Department, recently launched a new database to showcase potential local sites that could be considered for film, TV or other production projects. Residents and business owners can add photos and information. www.athensgafilm office.com
RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Weekly events include Open Jam (Tuesdays, 8–10 p.m.) and Acoustic Song Circle (Thursdays, 8–10 p.m. & Sundays, 3–5 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.vicchesnuttaward.com
VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA)
Brad Staples (of the Athens GA Live Music crew) is seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive on YouTube channel, @vhsordie3030, and the Athens GA Live Music channel courtesy of Gregory Frederick. Materials will be returned, and credits and dates will be included. Contact for details and shipping info. bradley.staples88@gmail. com, vhsordie.com f
classifieds
REAL ESTATE APARTMENTS FOR RENT
Tiny living in the country. 30’ RV camper on small farm 30 miles east of Athens. All utilities furnished, wi- fi, 2 TVs, trash service, private, secure, large covered porch, nice setting. Security deposit and references required. $1000/ mon. Text 706-401-0880.
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
PROPERTY FOR RENT
Hotel Abacus offers six unique and historic venues for your special event. hotel abacusathens.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.athensschoolof music.com. 706-543-5800
In- home private music lessons with a local and passionate teacher at a reasonable rate. I come to you! 30 or 60 minute lessons. Experienced with guitar, voice, bass, piano, recording, mixing, songwriting and live performance. (Almost) all ages and skill levels. Cam nortonmusic@gmail.com
Summer Camps at Merit Music Academy are filling fast! Offering Puppetry, Piano, and Ukulele Camps, with crafts, snacks and performances. Read more at MeritMusicAcademy.com/ summercamp!
Advertise your musical services in the Flagpole Classifieds! Call 706-549-0301 or email class@flagpole.com to place your ad.
MUSIC SERVICES
Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition.
Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428
SERVICES
CLASSES
Cooking & baking classes at Athens Cooks are fun, approachable, and great for friends and family groups! athenscooks.com
Registration for The Studio’s “Creative Kids Camp” starting in June is now open. Programs for ages 4–8 with music, art and movement to foster creative expression. www.thestudioath.com
HOME AND GARDEN
Get ready for spring! WomanRun Gardening Services: We offer garden clean- up/ maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706-395-5321.
Flagpole ♥ s our advertisers, donors and readers!
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 @pablofrom seed, email pkozatch@gmail. com or call 631-903-4365.
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
PETS
Pamper your pup at Bark Dog Spa, Athens’ premiere dog grooming facility! Book online at barkdogspa.com
JOBS
PART-TIME
Join a diverse, inclusive workplace and get paid to type! 12–40 hours, Mon–Fri. NEVER be called in for a shift you didn’t sign up for. Must type 65+ wpm. Make your own schedule and work independently with no customer interaction. Starts at $13 with automatic increases. www. ctscribes.com
Join our growing team of well- paid, motivated, hardworking individuals. Junk South starting pay $15/hr + tips (totaling $22+/hr). Learn more at www.junksouth.com and text us 706-424-4389.
Summer Seasonal (MayAug) Starting @ $20–25/hr. Assistant Manager roles performing furniture installation on college campuses. Email: rnichols@classiccity installation.com or text/call 470-8668777.
VEHICLES BOATS
Oh buoy! 1973 Sunfish sailboat with trailer & cover in knot bad shape for boatloads of fun. $1500. Get your ship together & write jolenethe sunfish@gmail.com for moor info.
NOTICES
ORGANIZATIONS
Become a Juvenile Offender Advocate to compassionately and effectively transform the lives of young people in need of mentorship and rehabilitation. juvenileoffenderadvocate inc.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 Flagpole ♥s notices, too.
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!
MISCELLANEOUS
First AME Church of Athens seeks any person with knowledge of St. John AME which was located on Stevens Street in Athens. First AME is interested in gathering any available information and/or history of the church. If you can be of assistance, please contact First AME at 706-5481454 or by cell at 706- 2068024.
OPEN HOUSE HUGH HODGSON SCHOOL OF MUSIC
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
University of Georgia, Hugh Hodgson School of Music Building, 250 River Road, Athens, GA
PERFORMANCES AND PRESENTATIONS:
“Lead Guitar” Program Student Showcase
Faculty Recital: Alan Woo, piano
Undergraduate and Graduate Student Recitals
Voice and Piano Studio Performance Classes
SEE OUR WORK IN ACTION:
Music Therapy Demonstration
Music Education Classes
Vocal Ensemble Rehearsals
Sound Recording Demonstration
PLUS, TWO INCREDIBLE SPECIAL GUESTS
Master Class: Resident Artist
Conductor Michael Stern
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Hodgson Concert Hall
Ensemble Rehearsals
Piano Workshop
Tour our Facilities And more...
Guest Artist: Composer
João Pedro Oliveira
Lecture - 4:10 p.m., Recital - 6 p.m.
Dancz Center for New Music (Room 264)
REFRESHMENTS AND MEET-AND-GREET OPPORTUNITIES WITH FACULTY, STAFF, AND STUDENTS
This event is free with no tickets required. However, registration is encouraged! Scan the QR code or visit music.uga.edu/open-house to register and for a full calendar of events
Parking, directions, and other details are also available on the website. For additional questions, contact Levi Dean at levi.dean@uga.edu.
PLUS, March 28 at 7:30 p.m.
University of Georgia Symphony Orchestra
“Symphonie Fantastique” with guest conductor Michael Stern
$15 - Adults | $3 - UGA Students with valid ID music.uga.edu | 706-542-4400
