Presented by the UGA Office of the President, Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden in Athens is a festive way to celebrate with friends and family this season. Visit the Winter Wondercave, purchase a hot chocolate or other beverage and continue your stroll along Jingle Bell Lane. Stop to purchase a sweet treat at the s’more roasting stations and see why this was voted Best Local Event four years in a row.
SELECT NIGHTS: NOV. 21 - DEC. 30 | DISCO NIGHTS: JAN. 2-3 AND 9-10
PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alicia Nickles
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner
ADVERTISING SALES Dave Martin, Isabella Williams
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin
CITY EDITOR Blake Aued
MUSIC EDITOR Sam Lipkin
ARTS & CULTURE COORDINATOR Libba Beaucham
OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene
CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene
AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson
CONTRIBUTORS Chris Dowd, Erin France, Gordon Lamb, Jennifer Schutt
CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser
CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe
EDITORIAL & OFFICE INTERN Mary Beth Bryan
PHOTOGRAPHERS CJ Bartunek, Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel
SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons
DANIEL
Bookmark it!
Events and Exhibits at UGA Special Collections Libraries
Georgia Music Collections Tour at Akins Ford Arena
6:30 PM, Thursday, Nov. 20
With memorabilia from more than 200 Georgia artists on display
Sustained Excellence Exhibit Tour
3PM, Friday, Nov. 21
Curator-led tours of exhibit celebrating UGA’s acclaimed swim & dive team
FLAGPOLE FOUND OUR CONGRESSMAN AT AN ATHENS GOP MEETING
By Blake Aued and Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com
You can take his picture off the milk cartons, folks—U.S. Rep. Mike Collins made a rare public appearance in Athens recently, speaking before the local Republican Party chapter.
Collins snuck in a quick 10-minute stump speech before leaving for a meeting in Franklin County and then on to Washington, D.C., where the House voted to reopen the government after, as he put it, Democrats “totally caved” on their demand to extend health- care subsidies passed during the pandemic.
Despite voting for President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” that cut Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program funding by $186 billion over 10 years and previously criticizing federal employees, Collins evinced a new sympathy for those affected by the shutdown. “When you’ve got 1.4 million Georgians on SNAP who are not getting any help, when you’ve got federal furloughed workers, you’ve got military people who aren’t getting paid, we owe it to them to get this thing back open and to take care of our people,” he said.
Collins is running in a three- way primary for the right to take on U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff next year. Without mentioning fellow MAGA Republican congressman Buddy Carter of Savannah by name, Collins said he was the only person in the race who campaigned with Trump and appeared at his rallies.
“People know where I stand. They know I’m 100% MAGA and America First and supporting President Trump. But the Atlanta suburban crowd also knows that I know how to get bipartisan stuff done in Washington, D.C.,” said Collins, who is from rural Butts County on the southern fringe of metro Atlanta.
Another foe is Derek Dooley, the former Tennessee football coach and son of Vince Dooley recruited by Gov. Brian Kemp. “Dooley’s not been elected to anything,” Collins said. “He hasn’t voted in 20 years. I guess there was nothing he cared about.”
More Candidates!
The signup period to run in the Dec. 9 special election to replace state Rep. Marcus Wiedower (R- Athens) ended last week with just one Republican, Mack “Dutch” Guest IV, qualifying. Guest will face Eric Gisler, a Democrat who’d already planned to run against Wiedower next November when Wiedower announced his resignation. Guest runs a trucking company with his father and attends Athens Church. House District 121 includes southeastern Clarke County and most of Oconee County. Early voting started Monday, Nov. 17.
able development and affordable housing, as well as public safety, fiscal responsibility and infrastructure. Mason is a financial advisor, and his announcement notes that he was born at St. Mary’s, graduated from Athens Academy and UGA, now lives in Homewood Hills and is active with the Rotary Club of Athens and other groups. [BA]
Eastside Electricity
The east side of Athens- Clarke County has experienced numerous lengthy power outages over the last couple years, but representatives from Georgia Power say that people living there won’t have to suffer through so many outages for too much longer.
ACC Commissioner Carol Myers, who represents the Green Acres neighborhood and surrounding areas, invited Georgia Power to explain the power outages to her constituents at a town hall meeting last week.
“We’ve had a pretty rough couple of years on the east side of Athens,” admitted
from the homeowner. You have to give us the legal right to do that. We could purchase an additional five feet from the property owner and trim that from ground to sky so we could get the trees further away,” Williams said.
Poole admitted that some of the electrical equipment on the Eastside is aging and in need of repairs. He said that Georgia Power is replacing some of the old lines to better insulate them and make them more resistant to squirrels and other animals. In addition, the company is in the process of upgrading the lines with new technology that will allow them to heal themselves in the case of a circuit break.
“We’re installing automated devices on the three or four circuits that touch the Eastside area. Some of them are coming online now,” Poole said. “When you have a tree fall, those devices are going to selfheal so the least amount of customers will be impacted. They usually heal the circuit in five minutes. Over the next six to 12 months, you should start seeing the reliability improvement as we get all of these devices online.”
“ People know where I stand. They know I’m 100% MAGA and America First and supporting President Trump.
But Collins saved most of his fire for Ossoff, whom he called “a trust fund kid… somebody who’s never had a real job in their life.
“Y’all, this guy is bought and paid for by those crazy folks out in California and those nut jobs up in New York,” Collins continued. Collins called on Republicans to unite behind one candidate and avoid a bloody primary. “Give me from January all the way to next November. I’ll beat the snot out of that rascal [Ossoff],” he said.
“I’ll make sure we knock him out next November, and make sure he goes back to wherever he came from, because the guy doesn’t represent Georgia, and he doesn’t represent Georgia values,” Collins said. Ossoff is from Atlanta. [Blake Aued]
In neighboring House District 120— including southwestern Clarke County, northern Oconee County, and eastern Barrow and Jackson counties—broadcaster Kris Kendrick, known as KJ Allen, has jumped into the race to succeed state Rep. Houston Gaines, who is running for Congress to replace Mike Collins. Kendrick’s company, Oconee Communications, syndicates local rightwing talk radio host Tim Bryant’s show. That election is not until 2026.
In local races, a fifth candidate has come forward for Athens- Clarke County mayor: Sharon Miller, a longtime AME pastor in Athens and Jefferson. Miller told the Athens Banner-Herald that she will knock on doors and visit the mall and community events to “hear the residents’ concerns about the community.”
Commission District 5 now has two announced candidates: Rick Stanziale and Zander Mason. Stanziale, a skater and musician who now works in construction and real estate, has served on the hearings board and the Woodhaven neighborhood association. He says he will promote sustain-
Lance Poole, an engineering supervisor with Georgia Power. “A lot of that has been weather related. Almost a third of your power outages in the last three years have been caused by weather. Things like trees falling and lightning strikes. 2024 was a record for us for weather events.”
Other issues that can cause power outages are squirrels chewing through wires and other wildlife problems, cars running into utility poles and also equipment failure due to age.
“In March, 818 customers were impacted due to a large tree that fell and broke three [utility] poles. It took us five or six hours to make that repair,” Poole said. “As we were almost done, another tree fell and broke two more poles. So, these customers ended up being impacted for over 11 hours.”
Georgia Power Distribution Manager David Williams explained that the company normally trims tree branches up to 15 feet away from power lines on a three- to fiveyear cycle. One option for the community, he said, would be to allow Georgia Power to trim an extra five feet to further reduce the number of branches that might cause issues.
“One of the things that’s an option for us is to acquire the right-of- way to trim trees further from the lines. That takes buy-in
Tony Ferguson, Georgia Power’s Northeast Region Executive, told the audience that his company has already spent close to $1.5 million on various upgrades to the Eastside power grid this year.
INTRODUCING
BOB COWELL: The audience also got an introduction to the recently hired ACC manager during the town hall meeting. The manager is the chief executive of the ACC government, in charge of hiring and firing assistant managers and various department heads, thereby guiding the local government as a whole.
“Our job is to take the priorities that the mayor and commission have identified and make those happen, while keeping the things running that we need to run in order to keep your quality of life and your safety where it needs to be,” Cowell told the audience. Cowell said that public safety, affordable housing and economic growth are some of the primary areas the mayor and commission have asked him to focus on. In addition to these goals, Cowell listed one project in particular that he’ll be focusing on, moving forward.
“My No. 1 priority is to build the new courthouse,” Cowell said. “It’s been talked about for years and years and if you’ve been in the courthouse recently, you would realize how desperate the need is. It‘s a building that is not doing well and it’s not serving the community as well as it should be.”
Obstacles to building the new courthouse include finding a site—longstanding hopes to acquire the federal building downtown are fading—and securing additional funding beyond the nearly $80 million voters approved as part of SPLOST 2020, which is now well short of the needed amount, given inflation.
Cowell said that his top hiring priority is to fill the vacant elections director position, and his second priority is to fill the two assistant manager positions (Central Services Director Andrew Saunders and Economic Development Director Ilka McConnell are serving on an interim basis). Since former manager Blaine Williams stepped down in 2024, every position in the manager’s office has turned over at least once.
➤
City Dope
LAND USE: The last topic on Myers’ agenda was a full explanation of the new future land use map currently under consideration by the commission. Some on the commission and in the public at large have been extremely wary of the changes this map might bring. In particular, some worry that the map would encourage density, development and gentrification across town if it is approved by the commission.
However, Myers told the audience that the map by itself does not authorize additional density or any other zoning changes. Every development that deviates from what is allowed in Athens’ zoning code would still need commission approval.
“Nothing is going to change until we change the zoning,” Myers said. “[This map] shouldn’t be scary. Anything scary would come later on.”
The future land use map does provide guidance to the commission and the planning department when they decide to approve or reject developers’ rezoning requests. This makes it an important milestone that will guide development in Athens for decades to come, even if it doesn’t make any actual zoning changes by itself.
The map currently under consideration does not propose any changes to singlefamily neighborhoods. In fact, only 6% of the county’s land would change categories if the map is approved. [Chris Dowd]
A Knight Out Downtown
A revamped College Square will likely include one of renowned local sculptor Harold Rittenberry’s favorite pieces after it’s donated to the Athens Downtown Development Authority.
Dan Coenen, a friend of Rittenberry’s and a recently retired UGA law professor, told the ADDA last week that he’s working with the Athens Community Foundation to raise money to buy the statue and donate it to the ADDA for placement in College Square. The block was closed to car traffic in 2022, and the ADDA is about to embark
on a $7 million project funded by parking fees to redo the temporary pedestrian plaza with brick pavers, tables and landscaping.
“He wants to relocate it to a public space where a large number of people will see it,” Coenen told the ADDA board. The six- foottall steel statue of a knight currently sits in Rittenberry’s yard; he refuses to sell it to a collector because he considers it “his most important, iconic work.”
Rittenberry, a self- taught artist who will turn 87 on Christmas Day, is well known for perhaps a dozen public art installations in Athens, including the Athens- Clarke County Library, Bear Hollow Zoo, Sandy Creek Nature Center, Rocksprings Park, Brooklyn Cemetery and the Hunter-Holmes Academic Building, as well as all over North America and Europe. Another of his sculptures will become a part of Costa Park, currently under construction near City Hall in the parking lot next door to the Costa Building. He welds and stamps steel parts that weather over time to create a distinctive rusted look, and incorporates Biblical and traditional African American imagery into his work.
Some officials raised concerns about vandalism, especially in light of UGA students and other football fans tearing down the widely derided “blue pipes” installed along Clayton Street when the Bulldogs won the national championship in 2023. Coenen noted that Rittenberry’s work is meant to be displayed outdoors. “He’s aware some knucklehead could do something to it, but he’s not worried about it,” Coenen said.
The ADDA board voted to accept the donation, contingent on approval from the Athens- Clarke County Commission.
The board also voted to hire Sheridan Construction as the construction firm for College Square. “We’re getting close to the finish line on the College Square project,” Director of Planning and Outreach David Lynn said. “We’re starting to think about groundbreaking.”
Costa Park is scheduled to be finished in mid-December, Director of Business Services Linda Ford said. And the ADDA will flip the switch on new, enhanced holiday lights along College Avenue and Clayton Street on Wednesday, Nov. 26. [BA] f
Not Your Grandma’s Trailer HABITAT
INSTALLS FIRST FACTORY-BUILT HOUSE IN ATHENS
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
The home looks just like any other Craftsman- style infill house scattered around East Athens. The only difference is, it was built in a factory 200 miles away.
Athens Area Habitat for Humanity held a move-in ceremony for Jennifer Wilhite and her family at the Branch Street home on Nov. 14. It’s the first house in Athens that was stick-built offsite, moved to the city in halves by truck and assembled on a foundation using a crane.
“It’s not modular. It’s high quality offsite construction. We’re calling it a Baxley Home,” after the South Georgia city where it was built, said Spencer Frye, executive director of Athens Area Habitat.
Frye said he had been pondering ways to increase productivity since before the COVID-19 pandemic. One day he just happened to be in Baxley and toured a manufacturing facility there called Impact Housing.
tions and are restricted to multifamily zones; stick-built factory homes, however, are allowed in single- family neighborhoods alongside those built onsite in a traditional fashion.
Smith said the house was funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, the Biden administration’s COVID relief legislation that awarded Athens- Clarke County approximately $60 million in 2021, funneled through the ACC Housing and Community Development Department. Habitat is set to receive another $274,000 in ARPA funds returned by another agency, if the ACC Commission approves it next month.
“ It’s not modular. It’s high quality offsite construction.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom house is about 1,200 square feet and costs about the same as one built onsite, according to Vice President for Operations Charles Smith, but is much faster to build, taking two and a half months, compared to four months for a house built onsite. Two more manufactured houses are being assembled down the street, and Smith was confident Habitat can speed up the process even further once it becomes more familiar.
“Sheltered construction on a flat surface, aided by overhead hoists, is faster and safer than field construction. And because supplies for multiple homes can be shipped to one location in bulk, it’s more efficient as well,” according to a Habitat news release. “The resulting homes are built to withstand highway- speed wind shear and crane hoisting, meaning they’re even sturdier than field-built homes.”
Other funding came from U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff and an ARPA grant that came through Gov. Brian Kemp’s office. Overall, some $9 million in public money has been committed to the Micah’s Creek project—what will eventually be a 63-home development in East Athens, with many of the homes clustered between Lexington Road and the Firefly Trail and others scattered around the surrounding blocks. It includes housing for families, military veterans, artists and college students who’ve aged out of the foster system.
As part of the project, the University of Georgia will be doing a study on residents to measure how home ownership affects children’s success in school. The development is within the Gaines Elementary School attendance zone, one of the highestpoverty areas in Athens.
Frye said such homes are built to levels above state code, with more insulation than required. Like houses built onsite, they’re inspected by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, in addition to AthensClarke County.
So why isn’t this type of construction more common? “I think it’s because of the perception of Grandma’s trailer,” Frye said.
It’s a misconception that such manufactured homes are illegal in Athens, ACC Planning Director Bruce Lonnee told Flagpole, because people often confuse them with mobile homes. “It’s stick built. It’s the same materials,” he said, unlike a mobile home. “It’s just built in a different zip code.”
Mobile homes require different inspec-
Habitat targets potential homeowners who earn between 50%–80% of the area median income as set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or about $47,000–$75,000 for a family of four. To lower costs, Habitat uses volunteer labor alongside a professional construction crew, and future homebuyers are required to commit to 500 hours of “sweat equity,” though not necessarily in construction. Habitat puts mortgage payments back into future affordable housing construction, and holds the right of first refusal when the owner decides to sell, preventing “flipping” but still allowing the owner to receive a substantial return on investment. Money from the sale then goes toward building more affordable housing. f
Hemp Hamstrung
GROWERS AND RETAILERS TARGETED BY BILLS ENDING SHUTDOWN
By Jennifer Schutt news@flagpole.com
Kentucky’s two U.S. senators sparred this week over the future of the country’s hemp industry—one arguing that a provision attached to the package that will reopen the government will close a problematic loophole, and the other contending the language will regulate the industry “to death.”
Sen. Mitch McConnell ultimately prevailed and was able to keep the section in the agriculture appropriations bill cracking down on hemp that Sen. Rand Paul tried to remove during floor debate. Both are Republicans. The appropriations bill rode along with a stopgap spending bill that ended the government shutdown. The hemp measure has raised alarm in farm states benefiting from a robust hemp growing industry.
Hemp plants have 0.3% or less of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, while cannabis or marijuana plants have higher concentrations of that substance, which is what gives users the high or stoned feeling. A summary of the bill put together by Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Susan Collins’ staff says the new language would prevent “the unregulated sale of intoxicating hemp-based or hemp-derived products, including delta-8, from being sold online, in gas stations, and corner stores, while preserving non-intoxicating CBD and industrial hemp products.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has a warning page on its website cautioning “that delta-8 THC products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use in any context.”
Farm Bill Origins
McConnell explained he is targeting hemp because its uses have expanded beyond what was intended.
“I led the effort to legalize industrial hemp through the 2014 pilot program and the 2018 Farm Bill,” McConnell said. “Unfortunately, companies have exploited
a loophole in the 2018 legislation by taking legal amounts of THC from hemp and turning it into intoxicating substances, and then marketing it to children in candy-like packaging and selling it in easily accessible places, like gas stations and convenience stores all across our country.”
McConnell said the new provision, which won’t take effect until a year after the bill becomes law, would “keep these dangerous
“This bill’s per-serving THC content limit would make illegal any hemp product that contains more than 0.4 milligrams,” Paul said. “That would be nearly 100% of the existing market. That amounts to an effective ban, because the limit is so low that the products intended to manage pain or anxiety will lose their effect.”
State Laws Nullified
The legislation, Paul added, will negatively impact the nearly two dozen states that have set higher limits on hemp production.
“Currently, Maine limits THC to three milligrams per serving. That will be overruled. My home state limits THC to five milligrams in beverages; that will be over-
far more than that, and it has to be fixed. So for now, it needs to be stripped out.”
The Senate voted 76-24 to table, or set aside, Paul’s amendment after McConnell moved to block it from being taken up directly.
The agriculture funding bill is one of three full-year government spending bills included in the stopgap spending package that ended the government shutdown. The House approved the measure on Nov. 12, and President Trump signed it later that day.
Thousands of Jobs Affected
Hemp Industry & Farmers of America
Executive Director Brian Swensen wrote in a statement released last week that McConnell’s provision would have a devastating impact on the industry and its workers.
products out of the hands of children while preserving the hemp industry for farmers.”
Paul and Oregon Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley urged their colleagues to remove that McConnell provision from the larger spending package, but were unsuccessful.
“This is the most thoughtless, ignorant proposal to an industry that I’ve seen in a long, long time,” Paul said.
The new language would change the definition of what makes a hemp plant legal, a move Paul said would mean “every plant in the country will have to be destroyed.”
ruled. Minnesota, Utah, Louisiana also have five milligrams per serving. Alabama and Georgia have 10 milligrams. Tennessee has 15 milligrams,” Paul said. “The bill before us nullifies all these state laws.”
Merkley said the new provision in the larger spending package would eliminate the hemp industry, which Congress took steps to establish more than a decade ago.
“I support my other colleague from Kentucky who doesn’t want intoxicated products produced from hemp,” Merkley said. “But the definition that is in this bill does
“Congress legalized hemp, Americans built an industry, and now Washington wants to pull the rug out from under hardworking farmers and small business owners. The industry wants a solid regulatory package that protects kids, but instead, Congress wants to place industry-killing caps on cannabinoids. Congress is not listening to the industry they created — they’re dismantling an industry with over 325,000 jobs and driving consumers to an unregulated, unsafe, and untaxed black market.”
John and Kara Grady, owners of Slappyhappy Hemp Company, said during an interview with the Missouri Independent the new language could hinder their business, possibly forcing them to close down. “You’re sick to your stomach all day long,” said Kara Grady, “knowing your hard work is for naught.”
Zack Kobrin, a Fort Lauderdale attorney with the firm of Saul Ewing who works in the hemp and cannabis industry, told the Florida Phoenix that many in the industry “are surprised it was such a sudden and sweeping measure.”
“I think for those that are cowboys, they will just maximize on making as much as they can until they can’t,” Kobrin said. “I think for those hemp operators that were trying to work with regulators and trying to follow the rules, this will be a real blow.” f
This article originally appeared in the Georgia Recorder, a part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.
Jeff Garland, right, gives a tour of Papa G’s Organic Hemp Farm in Crawford County, IN on June 23, 2022. Jeff and his son started the farm in 2020. At left is Lee Schnell of the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
ART | THU, NOV. 20
‘Animal Spirit’ Opening Reception
Tiger’s Eye Gallery • 6 p.m. • FREE!
Exploring themes surrounding animals, “Animal Spirit” is a group exhibition that includes prints, drawings and paintings that embody the mythological spirit of the creatures they depict. The works come primarily from Athenian artists, including David Hale, Tatiana Kiselyova, Valley StipeMaas
people three and younger may come for free. You can buy tickets online through the Morton’s website. [Rebecca McCarthy]
and Jeffrey Whittle, but artist Noah Mendelson of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico will also be showing several pieces. Curator Jessica Magnarella says of the exhibition, “I see it as a vibrant dialogue about our companions on this planet. Whether the images come from our imagination, the spiritual realm or real memories, animals offer a connection to innocence and beauty and maybe even love.” The permanent exhibition room containing works by Coleman Barks and Mark Magnarella will also be open for viewing during the opening reception for “Animal Spirit.” [Mary Beth Bryan]
THEATER | NOV. 20–23
Mary Poppins, Jr.
Morton Theatre • Times Vary • $12–15
The children have been practicing for months, and now they’re ready to bring Mary, Bert, Jane and Michael to life in Mary Poppins, Jr., a musical from The Studio’s Triple Threat Musical Theatre Co. (It’s so called because it involves acting, dancing and singing.) The 60 kids in Mary Poppins, Jr. range in age from 4–15. They’ve been rehearsing twice a week and every other Saturday, “so they’re ready,” says director Cathy Rumfelt. Each participant commits to being involved for a year and to take part in both a fall and a spring musical. “Almost everyone knows the songs from Mary Poppins, so we’ve had a good response,” Rumfelt says. “It’s just a lot of fun,” with both tap dancing and jazz dancing. Sorci Whitmore stars as Mary Poppins, the brisk, magical nanny who brings adventure and whimsy to the lives of the Banks family, while Ollie Rumfelt is Bert, the dancing chimney sweep. Ottilia Menke and June Borger are the Banks children. Mary Poppins, Jr. will be on Nov. 20–21 at 7 p.m., and there’s a Sunday matinee on Nov. 23 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for those 17 and younger, $15 for those 18 and older and
Audiences are invited to give thanks for Athens’ music scene at this year’s Rocksgiving, an event featuring four Georgia bands. Headlining is ENOX, a local progressive metalcore band that incorporates the grooves of nu-metal and the rhythms of djent into its sound, combined with introspective lyricism and raw vocals. The band has been releasing a stream of singles, with “Aurora” being the latest, following up on its successful debut Euphoria. Ashes to Omens is next on the bill, another local band mixing hard rock, modern rock and post-grunge. Phantom Dan, a poppunk artist inspired by bands like Blink-182, Sum 41, Beastie Boys and Smash Mouth, will be the third local entertainer. The fourth and final Rocksgiving act is Intension, an Atlanta-based alternative rock band inspired by the sounds of the ’90s and early 2000s. [MB]
EVENT | NOV. 21–23
OCAF Holiday Market
OCAF • Times Vary • $5
OCAF’s annual juried market is back for the holidays, giving patrons the opportunity to buy wares from some of the best artists and craftspeople in the region. Among the available items will be pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass, jewelry, sculptures, photography, woodwork and more. There will also be pies, cakes, breads, cookies and other baked goods at the Golden Pear Bakery, sourced from an open call for bakers to share their homemade treats. The $5 general admission fee grants access for all three days of the market, and children under 12 get in free. The market will be open from 4–8 p.m. on Nov. 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Nov. 22 and 10 a.m.–3 p.m. on Nov. 23. [MB]
THEATER | NOV. 25–26
Clue
The Classic Center • 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show) • $33–126
Based on the 1985 film, which is based on the eponymous board game, Clue is one of the most well-known murder mystery stories to be brought to the stage. The narrative follows six strangers who are invited to a secluded mansion on a stormy night and given the aliases Col. Mustard, Mrs. White, Mrs. Peacock, Mr. Green, Professor Plum and Miss Scarlet. They are each handed a weapon before the lights go out, and suddenly they find themselves as suspects in the murder of their host, a figure who is connected to all of their pasts. They must then figure out who the killer is before more people fall victim. Was it Mrs. Peacock with the candlestick in the ballroom? Maybe Professor Plum in the library with the revolver? Clue is known for keeping audiences guessing until the very end. [MB] f
threats & promises
Musical Closing Art Reception
PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
CATAPULT: Irrepressible Athens rockers Five Eight have been on a pronounced upcycle this past year, buoyed by filmmaker Mark Pilvinsky’s documentary Weirdo: The Story of Five Eight as well as the frenetic energy of its single from February, “Take Me To The Skatepark.” Now newly signed to Milford, CT label Static Era Records, with an anticipated new album in 2026, the band recently released its newest single “I’m Alone,” which is exactly the type of pick-meup song title you’ve come to expect from these boys. The tune itself is a mid- tempo rocker that is smooth in its transitions, features some creative use of classic riff-rock, and even closes out with vocalist/guitarist/ songwriter Mike Mantione’s signature emotive wail. Find this on all major streaming services, and gather all other information at fiveeight.com.
TALK ABOUT THE PASSION: The overlap between Athens music and visual art is so foundational that it seems born that way. A great example of such is the upcoming closing reception event at Flicker Theatre and Bar on Tuesday, Nov. 25 in celebration of artist James Greer (American Cheeseburger). The event runs 5–9 p.m. Attendees can check out Greer’s 19-piece exhibition, as well as enjoy live music from IXIAN, Grant Evans and Matthew Kovacevich, and Motion Sickness of Time Travel. Catch up on Greer’s work at jamesgreerart.blog spot.com, and head over to hookervision. bandcamp.com and ixian.bandcamp.com to check out the musical offerings for this night.
GET UP: Anthem master Phantom Dan released a new single named “Rat Girl Hunny” last week and, as you might imagine, it’s got a huge chorus that connects its hook-packed verses in a sing-along fashion. The man himself, according to a press release, describes it as “a show- tune- tinged pop-punk roller coaster,” which is surely as flowery as I could ever describe it. Pump your fist in the air and shout along to this when Dan and Co. play Athens Rocksgiving on Friday, Nov. 21 at Live Wire. Also on the bill this night are Enox, Ashes To Omens and Atlanta group Intension. There are advance tickets for this, so head to facebook.com/phantomdanmusic for more details.
I’M GONNA DJ: The third album from Athensrelated DJ Knetter Gek came out last week, and it’s titled Vol. 4 On The Floor Thus far, I’ve been solidly onboard with all his releases, but nothing prepared me for the way he absolutely spread his wings
LITTLE AMERICA: While you’re enjoying the artists mentioned directly above, you may be inclined to check out Evans’ merchandise table in hopes there are physical copies of the gorgeous new compilation Hooker Vision has released. It’s titled Creek Drift Mosaic: A Field Guide to Southern Cosmic, and each copy of the cassette and compact disc comes with a hugely informative, and very nicely assembled, printed field guide to the artists on the comp as well as “current locations, artist photos, essential listening for each artist, and a slew of tour/show photos and posters.” As always with Hooker Vision releases, this comp is something to sit with, not rush through. Among the most contemplative tracks here are Motion Sickness of Time Travel’s “Kudzoo Warped Thistle,” but I’m also quite partial to Observance’s “Material Point” and its mechanical heartbeat. Ask for this if you go to the show but, if not, head over to hookervision.bandcamp.com and grab a copy.
with this one. With its rock guitar and bass, harder beats, etc., this is akin to when rock bands were dipping into dance music in the 1990s (think U2, Blur, Happy Mondays, et al). Indeed, the main guitar flourish on opening track “Brummie” would have been right at home on 1997’s Pop. Similarly, the timbale beats in “Fuzz Buster” could have fallen off “Sympathy For the Devil” before they run headlong into a Kravitzstyle guitar riff. The first vocal I can recall hearing from any of his albums appears on “Redline,” which is a groove even before the fact, and this aspect only adds to it. I was taken, in particular, by “Heel-Toe,” the surf- y intrigue of “Downshift” and the allout swagger of “Big Block.” Also, everything here is a bit long by about one minute per track, but the good DJ uses this space to give the songs a long exhale and exhibit constituent parts for closer aural inspection. He’s currently exploring vinyl options, so don’t hold your breath on that, but this is available as a digital download, as well as compact disc. This was a welcome surprise, and you too can be surprised by heading over to djknettergek.bandcamp.com and djknettergek.com. f
James Greer
Tatiana Kiselyova
Hole Dweller
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
The dungeon synth subgenre has started emerging from shadows across the globe and gathering strength, but this is no dark force at work; its resurgence is largely due to an online community of fantasy lovers creating soundscapes to fictional worlds.
It’s rooted in the 1990s as an ambient lo- fi side-project of the black metal scene, a journey that is parallel to Athens’ own dungeon synth producer, Tim Rowland. Before his dungeon synth projects, Rowland played death metal. Then in 2019, Andrew Fritts of Dungeons Deep Records backed what Rowland thought would be a one-off album with a limited tape run under the name Hole Dweller—the concept being a soundtrack for Rowland’s Lord of the Rings Online character, a hobbit named Jamwine, with an accompanying written story by Fritts.
“I didn’t think it was going to become anything,” says Rowland. “I did that entire album in two to three days from beginning to end. I had Lord of the Rings Online open. I had my midi controller, my laptop, and I would go in one window and move my character through Middle Earth, then I would minimize that window, make sure I had all my synth stuff, and then I would open Lord of the Rings Online again. I would just sit there and I would write to what I’m looking at. Just me kind of scoring my game experience, right? It’s really nerdy.”
Earth with ambient finesse, but also the cultivation of a supportive community.
“Hole Dweller has brought me into a world where people just accept me more for what I guess I really am. It’s been a really positive experience,” says Rowland. “As I
him in many ways. Finding peace within a community has been a great part of the experience, but the music and worldbuilding itself has also been grounding.
“Everything else outside of this is actually me venturing out into something; this feels like my home. I have a kind of affinity towards Tolkien in that sense, where it’s like the way he viewed the Shire and the way he viewed hobbits is kind of like, I would say, an expression of what his utopian world would be. I find that same comfort,” says Rowland.
As a whole, the concept of nerd culture has become much more mainstream and accepted, no longer reserved for “mom’s
And when Rowland says, “I played my first show,” it was literally his first live show as Hole Dweller—headlining an event in Raleigh, NC where he nearly sold out of merch. After the first Hole Dweller release, he had no plans of continuing; then as people asked for more, he never considered playing a live show. But the experience and support have propelled Hole Dweller forward, far beyond the Shire of his homebase in Athens. As Hole Dweller continues on a brief U.S. tour, next year Jamwine’s adventures will be taken to Europe.
Hole Dweller’s first show in Athens will take place during Athens’ first dungeon synth festival There and Back Again on Saturday, Nov. 22. The event will take place at two downtown venues, starting with a dungeon synth happy hour at Flicker Theatre & Bar at 5 p.m. before music begins at Ciné at 6 p.m. Then the show will head back to Flicker from 9–11:30 p.m. Featured acts include Vaelastrasz (VA), Seregost (SC), Mons (KY), Magic Mishap (OH) and Disquieting (GA).
“Fantasy synth, dungeon synth, is a genre that is growing rapidly worldwide,” says Rowland. “So if I succeed, I feel like my peers succeed; if they succeed, I feel like I’m succeeding, too. We all are helping each other out. As we all put in our effort into the genre, it grows, and we all benefit from it.”
But what Rowland found was that there was an enthusiastic and receptive audience online that wanted more. The result has been a series of Hole Dweller albums following Jamwine’s journey through Middle
get older, the more I realize I am still the guy who likes metal, but I do feel like I am much more introverted and nerdy. I like fantasy stuff, escapist stuff, more than writing about problems of the world or things channeled through anger. The creative stuff I do, I would rather use that as an opportunity to leave all the stuff that’s going on in the world versus just kind of [harping] on it. And so this fantasy stuff, as I get older, it just becomes more of a joy to be a part of now than it ever has.”
For how trivially Hole Dweller was conceived, Rowland says that it has changed
basement.” Perhaps as a result, dungeon and fantasy synth has also grown in popularity and representation.
“When I played my first show in Raleigh a few weeks ago, how many young people— probably in their late teens, early to mid 20s—were there… You know, I’m 37, so what I grew up in was a lot different, right? They grew up in a much more hyper-realized version of the stuff that I grew up with,” says Rowland. “A little pond of people with these mutual interests now is like an ocean. It just seems drastically larger than it was when I was a kid.”
“If there’s a scene here that I don’t know about, I would absolutely love to build a thing more here. There’s a lot of people in town who are in those card shops. They’re playing Magic the Gathering. There’s Dungeons and Dragons communities here; I know they’re here. I would gamble that they would outnumber a lot of scenes.” f
SLUMBERING SUN Traditional doom band out of Texas.
MAUL RAT New project by members of Spoil.
FORBIDDANCE Athens sludge/ doom.
Cheba Hut
8 p.m. FREE! www.chebahut.com
KARAOKE Every Tuesday. 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 School of Music
Edge Hall. 3 p.m. FREE! music.uga. edu
CHAMBER RECITAL Performing Felix Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio.
Normal Bar
8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com
OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.
WUOG
Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org
DERBY Corporate egg punk music for business bugs.
Wednesday 19
Athentic Brewing Co.
7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday. Creature Comforts Brewery
MAIKAI OPEN MIC Share your music, comedy and poetry every Wednesday.
Porterhouse Grill 7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.
Ramsey Hall
3:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
HODGSON STRING QUARTET
UGA’s premier student string quartet.
Thursday 20
Athentic Brewing Co.
6:30–9:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com
SONGWRITERS ANONYMOUS
Featuring songwriters Phil Kohnen, John Brocato and Chris Tuccilo in the round.
JD GRAHAM Former death metal guitarist turned Americana trouba-
JEREMY CAMP Rock-influenced contemporary Christian singer and songwriter from Lafayette, IN.
WE ARE MESSENGERS Christian band originally from Monaghan, Ireland.
Athentic Brewing Co.
6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
HIBBS FAMILY BAND Quartet of family members combining the textures and rhythms of bluegrass and folk music with alt-rock melodic sensibilities and lyricism.
El Paso Tacos & Tequila
7 p.m.–12 a.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY Every Friday.
dour with soul-bearing songwriting and a voice hardened by truth.
GABE LEE Classic songwriter and modern-day storyteller building a bridge between country, folk and rock.
Friday 21
ATHICA
7:30 p.m. $10. www.athica.org
ANA GAMBOA AND KILLICK
HINDS The cello and string player have collaborated across different parts of the world.
GIFT ECONOMY A mindful and melodic blend of folk and punk. BETO CACAO Artist, organizer and activist who has been performing in Athens for over 20 years.
BELLAH SPARXXX Poet and storyteller.
CREE MO Rock songs written with candid lyrics powered by strong vocals.
FUTON Alternative rock band that released its debut single, “River,” last year.
REMNANT OF A LOSS Atlantabased alt-rock and hardcore band.
ANDOVIA Hard alternative rock from Atlanta.
Athentic Brewing Co.
8–11:30 p.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 dance class.
KATE MORRISSEY Singer-songwriter with an offbeat sense of humor. (10 a.m.)
Ciné
Athens Goth Night Dance Party. 9:30 p.m. $10. www.athenscine.com
DJ CROWE DJ Steven Crowe. DJ TOMB LILY Adria Stembridge of Tears For The Dying spins deathrock, post-punk, goth and more. TWIN POWERS Local DJ who is also a member of DJ trio Booty Boyz.
DJ GOTH DAD Dustin Gannon of Vision Video leads a dance party spinning goth, post-punk, ’80s, Halloween music and more. Classic Citiva 4–7 p.m. FREE! www.classiccitiva. com
TRVY & THE ENEMY Acoustic set celebrating the one year anniversary of Classic Citiva’s flagship location.
FESTIVAL Dungeon synth festival featuring headliner Hole Dweller with aelastrasz (VA), Seregost (SC), Mons (KY), Magic Mishap (OH) and Disquieting (GA).
MAIKAI OPEN MIC Share your music, comedy and poetry every Wednesday.
Porterhouse Grill
7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.
Down the Line
12/04 The Seven Two, Warren Hol low, Lightwatch (40 Watt Club)
12/05 Check The Signs (Athentic Brewing Co.)
12/05 Corey Smith (Georgia Theatre)
12/06 WILLIS, Hotel Fiction gia Theatre)
12/06 Chris Hampton Band Winery & Inn)
12/07 Sandy Creek Hootenanny (Sandy Creek Park) f
event calendar
Tuesday 18
ART: Art History Faculty Lecture (Lamar Dodd School of Art) Associate Professor Isabelle Loring Wallace will present “Curtains” about Jasper Johns’ crosshatch series. A Spotlight on the Arts event. 5:30 p.m. FREE! arts.uga.edu/spotlighton-the-arts
CLASSES: Home Energy Rebate Workshop (First AME Church) Attendees will learn about energysaving tips, local support programs, and discover appliance and upgrade rebates. 4 p.m. FREE! RSVP@ sosuin.org
CLASSES: Welcome Mat Workshop (Lay Park Community Center) During this family craft night create an autumn themed welcome mat for your home. One mat per family. 6 p.m. $15 (ACC residents), $22.50 (non-residents). www.accgov.com/ myrec
COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (Flying Squid Comedy) 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
EVENTS: Holiday Open House (Lexington Vintage) Enjoy refreshments, enter raffles for themed gift baskets and shop for the holidays. 1–8 p.m. www.lexingtonvintage.com
EVENTS: Sip & Stitch (Tapped Athens Wine Market) Enjoy a drink and learn book-themed embroidery stitches with proceeds supporting
GAMES: Music Bingo (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Join in to play music BINGO. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.johnnyspizza.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
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
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
LECTURES & LIT: Rankin Foundation Book Tour (UGA Special Collections Library) Book discussion on historian Lorissa Rinehart’s biography of Jeannette Rankin titled Winning the Earthquake. 3 p.m. FREE! calendar.uga.edu
PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “How
ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
ART: Meet the Artist (The Old Pal) Meet the artist behind Flux Goods stained glass and view the current gallery display. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/theoldpal
CLASSES: Life Drawing (Winterville Cultural Center) Monthly open drawing studio with a nude model. Registration required. Ages 18 & up. 1–4 p.m. $20. drawathens.org
CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 1 p.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com
COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. Hosted by Noell Appling. Third Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
EVENTS: 11th Annual Holiday Market (Athens Academy) Browse over 85 vendors selling artisanal foods, handmade jewelry, ceramics, fine arts and various crafts. Nov. 19, 4–6 p.m. Nov. 20, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. www. athensacademy.org/community
EVENTS: Salsa Night (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Enjoy an evening of social dancing. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.panchostacosandtequila. com
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1982 fantast film Along Unknown Paths. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. indigoathens.com
GAMES: Spotlight on the Arts Trivia Night (Ciné) Test your arts-based trivia knowledge. 6 p.m. FREE! arts. uga.edu/spotlight-on-the-arts
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 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: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Music Bingo (B&B Theatres) Join in to play music bingo. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.bbtheatres. com
version of the classic horror movie blending slapstick comedy and horror tropes. Nov. 18–21, 8 p.m. Nov. 23, 2 p.m. $9 (student), $21 (adult). www.ugatheatre.com
Thursday 20
ART: Museum Studies Pop-Up Exhibition (Georgia Museum of Art) Student-curated exhibition focused on portraiture. Nov. 20, 5–9 p.m. Nov. 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 23, 1–5 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
ART: Open Studio (Chase Park Warehouse, Unit 4, Suite #10) Artist Christina Habibi’s work will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www. habibiart.com
ART: Opening Reception (Tiger’s Eye Gallery) The group exhibition “Animal Spirit” features animal themed art from David Hale, Tatiana Kiselyova, Noah Mendelson and more. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tigers eyegallery.com
ART: Opening Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Local artist Caitlin La Dolce’s multimedia exhibition “Thing Church” will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.com
CLASSES: S.T.E.M. Tech & Play (Howard Park & Community Center) Persons with developmental disabilities are invited to explore technology online or with friends. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.accgovga. myrec.com
CLASSES: 3D Printing for Beginners (ACC Library) Learn how to 3D print objects from start to finish. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
building a clay project while sipping on Prosecco and enjoying light appetizers. Supplies provided. 6:30 p.m. $75. www.southernstar studioathens.com
COMEDY: House Party (Flying Squid Comedy) A rotating cast of improv teams and comics, this week featuring Bradley Bazzle and LeeAnn Peppers. 7 p.m. $5. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: 11th Annual Holiday Market (Athens Academy) Browse over 85 vendors selling artisanal foods, handmade jewelry, ceramics, fine arts and various crafts. Nov. 19, 4–6 p.m. Nov. 20, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. www.athensacademy.org/ community
EVENTS: Athentic Farmers Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Weekly market featuring vendors Diamond Hill Farms, Normaltown Bread Company, Katie Bee Honey, Flossie May Forage and Grand Designs Woodworking. Thursdays, 4–7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
EVENTS: Sip & Craft: Supporting Athens’ Animals (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join Strike Magazine to help create dog and cat toys that will be donated to local animal shelters. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www. strikemagazines.com
EVENTS: The Georgia Music Collections Tour (Akins Ford Arena) Take a tour through Georgia musical history with a curator-led event for Third Thursday. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.classiccenter.com
EVENTS: Trans Day of Remembrance (Town & Gown Players) Join Athens Pride and Queer Collective for an evening of reflection, remembrance and community. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenspride.org
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia
THEATER: Evil Dead: The Musical (UGA Fine Arts Building) UGA Theatre presents a campy and musical
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
CLASSES: Prosecco & Pottery Class (Southern Star Studio) Instruction is provided for hand-
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: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens
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GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Todd Henderson. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnys pizza.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Tiny Picasso (Howard Park & Community Center) Play a game and explore your artistic side, this month making thankful turkeys. Ages 1.5–4. 10 a.m. $4 (ACC residents), $6 (non-residents). www. accgovga.myrec.com
KIDSTUFF: 123 Toddler & Me (Lay Park Community Center) Bond with your toddler using fun gym games, arts and crafts, and kitchen goodies. 10 a.m. $3 (ACC residents), $4.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga. myrec.com
KIDSTUFF: Toddler Thursday (OCAF) Drop in for a mix of staffled and self-led activities or to look at art. Ages 5 & under. 10 a.m. FREE! (members), $5 (non-members). www.ocaf.com
KIDSTUFF: Three Point ShootOut (Heard Park & Community Center) Three point contest with group for ages 10–16 with first and second place winners. Registration required. 4 p.m. $4 (ACC resident), $6 (non-resident). www.accgov. com/myrec
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
LECTURES & LIT: Intersecting Contemporary Art & Business (The Athenaeum) Conversation between two accomplished private wealth advisors and the head of Art Advisory Americas at UBS. A Spotlight on the Arts event. 6 p.m. FREE! arts.uga.edu/spotlight-onthe-arts
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: Disco Hills Skate Club (Firefly Trail, Winterville) Join the
group to socialize or exercise while skating outdoors. Thursdays, 5:30 p.m. FREE! Find Disco Hills Outdoor Skate Club on Facebook
MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Mary Poppins Jr. (Morton Theatre) The Studio Athens presents a family-friendly musical based on the classic movie about a magical nanny. Nov. 20–21, 7 p.m. Nov. 22, 2:30 p.m. $12 (18 & under), $15 (adults). www.morton theatre.com
THEATER: Evil Dead: The Musical (UGA Fine Arts Building) UGA Theatre presents a campy and musical version of the classic horror movie blending slapstick comedy and horror tropes. Nov. 18–21, 8 p.m. Nov. 23, 2 p.m. $9 (student), $21 (adult). www.ugatheatre.com
Friday 21
ART: Museum Studies Pop-Up Exhibition (Georgia Museum of Art) Student-curated exhibition focused on portraiture. Nov. 20, 5–9 p.m. Nov. 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 23, 1–5 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
ART: Opening Reception (Lamar Dodd School of Art) The BFA Fall 2025 capstone exhibition “INCANDESCENCE” will be on view. 5–7 p.m. FREE! art.uga.edu
ART: Free Art Swap (Foxglove Plantbar) Bring your artwork to swap with other local artists. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.foxgloveplantbar. com
CLASSES: THC-Infused Mocktail Class (Classic Citiva) Crescent 9 will lead a class in creating THCinfused drinks for the holidays. 4–7 p.m. FREE! www.classiccitiva.com
COMEDY: Barechuckle (Flying Squid Comedy) Two teams of improvisors battle for the winning
title. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquid comedy.com
EVENTS: Adult Trips (Howard Park & Community Center) Leisure Services offers roundtrip travel to the Dekalb Farmers Market. 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $15 (ACC resident), $22.50 (non-resident). www. accgov.com/myrec
EVENTS: Sustained Excellence (UGA Special Collections Library) Take a curator-led tour of the UGA swim and dive exhibition. 3 p.m. libs.uga.edu
EVENTS: Holiday Market (OCAF) Browse locally made pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass, jewelry, sculpture, photography, woodwork and more. Nov. 21, 4–8 p.m. Nov. 22, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 23, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. www. ocaf.com
EVENTS: Thanksgiving Wine Pairing Tasting (Tonique Bottle Co.) Drop in to taste four wines that pair perfectly with Thanksgiving dinner. 5–7 p.m. $10. www.shoptonique. com
EVENTS: TranscenDANCE (Feel Free Yoga + Wellness) Based on the principles of ecstatic dance, this is a sober, judgement-free zone for anyone to come and let loose. Fridays, 6–8:30 p.m. Donations suggested. www.feelfreeyoga wellness.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a new roleplaying game. New players welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
KIDSTUFF: Morning Makers (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Hali to make themed crafts. Ages 4–7. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
OUTDOORS: Fall Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-led paddle on the river. Registration required. 4:15 p.m. $15/ person, $5 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill Bridge
PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Fabulous Friday’s (Hendershots) Enjoy a fabulous night of drag entertainment to celebrate the birthdays of Kellie Divine and Jenn Sparx. Ages 18 & up. 9 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirlcabaret.com
THEATER: Mary Poppins Jr. (Morton Theatre) The Studio Athens presents a family-friendly musical based on the classic movie about a magical nanny. Nov. 20–21, 7 p.m. Nov. 22, 2:30 p.m. $12 (18 & under), $15 (adults). www.morton theatre.com
THEATER: Evil Dead: The Musical (UGA Fine Arts Building) UGA Theatre presents a campy and musical version of the classic horror movie blending slapstick comedy and horror tropes. Nov. 18–21, 8 p.m. Nov. 23, 2 p.m. $9 (student), $21 (adult). www.ugatheatre.com
Saturday 22
ART: Glass Blowing Demonstrations (Bendzunas Glass Studio and Gallery) Drop in to watch molten glass become stunning works of art and browse the gallery. Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. bendzunasglass.net
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers market.net
EVENTS: Shop, Sip & Stroll (Downtown Madison) This annual event features complimentary beverages and live music for holiday shoppers. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! www. madisonga.com
EVENTS: Holiday Market (OCAF) Browse locally made pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass, jewelry, sculpture, photography, woodwork and more. Nov. 21, 4–8 p.m. Nov. 22, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 23, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. www. ocaf.com
EVENTS: Pet Photos with Santa (Athens Area Humane Society) Bring up to two pets for photos with Santa. Registration required. Nov. 23, 12–4 p.m. Nov. 22 & 29–30, 12–2 p.m. $30. www.athens humanesociety.com
EVENTS: Mindful Planetarium
(Sandy Creek Nature Center) Focus on being present while listening to music and watching the night sky, with coffee and tea served before and after. 4 p.m. & 5 p.m. $5. www. accgov.com/myrec
EVENTS: Friendsgiving Potluck (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Bring your favorite dish to share and enjoy a night filled with laughter, connection and cozy vibes. 5–7 p.m. www. athenskava.com
FILM: A “Wicked” Good Sing-ALong (Bogart Library) Screening of part one of Wicked ahead of the new cinema release. 2 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Squid Kids (Flying Squid Comedy) This 45-minute show is a fast-paced blast of shortform improv perfectly tailored for kids. 12 p.m. $10/family. www. crowdwork.com/e/squid-kids
OUTDOORS: Hike the Sawnee Mountain Preserve (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Join the Trails and Open Space team for transportation to and from a guided group hike. 9 a.m. $10 (ACC resident), $15 (nonresident). www.accgov.com/myrec
OUTDOORS: Kids Thanksgiving Craft (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join park staff to make festive crafts and a nature journal. 9 a.m. $5/person, $5 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill Bridge
OUTDOORS: Creek Critters Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Experience hands-on stream ecology while hiking along Beaver Creek. 11 a.m. $5/person, $5 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks. org/WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Fall Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-led paddle on the river. Registration required. 3:15 p.m. $15/ person, $5 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill Bridge
SPORTS: UGA vs. Charlotte (Sanford Hall) Cheer on the Georgia Bulldogs football team as they face the Charlotte 49ers. 3:30 p.m. www.georgiadogs.com
THEATER: Mary Poppins Jr. (Morton Theatre) The Studio Athens presents a family-friendly musical based on the classic movie about a magical nanny. Nov. 20–21, 7 p.m. Nov. 22, 2:30 p.m. $12 (18 & under), $15 (adults). www.morton theatre.com
Sunday 23
ART: Glass Blowing Demonstrations (Bendzunas Glass Studio and Gallery) Drop in to watch molten glass become stunning works of art and browse the gallery. Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. bendzunasglass.net
ART: Museum Studies Pop-Up Exhibition (Georgia Museum of Art) Student-curated exhibition focused on portraiture. Nov. 20, 5–9 p.m. Nov. 21, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 23, 1–5 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
ART: Artist Talk (tiny ATH gallery) Local artist Caitlin La Dolce will discuss her multimedia exhibition “Thing Church.” 2–5 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.com
CLASSES: Mah Jongg (Oconee County Library) Adults of all skill levels are invited to learn and play American Mah Jonng. Every Sunday. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
COMEDY: Comedy Open Mic (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Show up and go up with your stand-up material. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/bulaatmaikai
COMEDY: Off the Clock Comedy (The Globe) Athens Comedy presents a lineup of local and touring comedians. 8:30 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). www.facebook.com/ athenscomedy
EVENTS: Holiday Market (OCAF) Browse locally made pottery, paintings, fiber art, stained and fused glass, jewelry, sculpture, photography, woodwork and more. Nov. 21, 4–8 p.m. Nov. 22, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 23, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. $5. www. ocaf.com
EVENTS: Pet Photos with Santa (Athens Area Humane Society) Bring up to two pets for photos with Santa. Registration required. Nov. 23, 12–4 p.m. Nov. 22 & 29–30, 12–2 p.m. $30. www.athens humanesociety.com
EVENTS: Banquet of Blessings (The Classic Center) Enjoy a community meal and free giveaways of clothes, toiletries and other necessities. 4:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! www. pollackfamilyfoundation.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens
MEETINGS: Gantt Campaign
Listening Session (Upper Cutz) Mayoral candidate LaKeisha Gantt wants to hear directly from Athens’ diverse communities. 1–3 p.m. FREE! www.lakeishaforathens.com
OUTDOORS: Morning Paddle
(Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-led paddle on the river. Registration required. 9:15 a.m. $15/person, $5 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: A Bridge to the Past
(Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about history of Watson Mill Bridge with a tour through the longest covered bridge in Georgia. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.gastate parks.org/WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Critters Creek Hike
(Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Experience hands-on stream ecology while hiking along Beaver Creek. 3:30 p.m. $5/person, $5 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastate parks.org/WatsonMillBridge
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
THEATER: Evil Dead: The Musical (UGA Fine Arts Building) UGA Theatre presents a campy and musical version of the classic horror movie blending slapstick comedy and horror tropes. Nov. 18–21, 8 p.m. Nov. 23, 2 p.m. $9 (student), $21 (adult). www.ugatheatre.com
Monday 24
EVENTS: Marigold Farmers Market (100 North Church Street) Vendors offer organic produce, prepared foods, agricultural products and artisanal goods. Mondays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. www.marigold collectivewinterville.com
GAMES: Pinball Tournament (Starland Lounge & Lanes) Casual and beginner-friendly with prizes
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccity triviaco
GAMES: Trivia with Marissa (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Test your trivia knowledge with host Marissa. 8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
KIDSTUFF: Gobble, Gobble, Gobble Adventure (Howard Park & Community Center) A fun-filled day off school packed with games, crafts and festive fall activities. Ages 6–12. Registration required. 9 a.m. $45 (ACC residents), $67.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga. myrec.com
KIDSTUFF: Storytime with Miss Harli (Bogart Library) Build early literacy skills through songs, letters, language fun, stories and STEAM. Ages 3–7. Mondays, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Drafts and Drafts (Athentic Brewing Co.) A monthly night for writers to workshop pieces, run writing exercises and games, and get important feedback. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (1430 N Chase St) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.classiccityrotary. org
art around town
ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 500) Heaven4theYoung presents “The Uncanny Valley” featuring ceramics, oils and watercolors by Frances Thrasher. Through January 2026.
AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) Works by artist Camille Hayes on view through Dec. 7 with new works by Marissa Mustard going up. Closing/opening reception Dec. 7.
ATHENAEUM (287 W Broad St.) In the main gallery, Krista Clark’s “assembly” presents a site-specific installation informed by the politics and poetics of the urban built environment. • In the second gallery, Steven Thompson’s “Ever Loyal, Ever True” features recent work that merges handmade pigments, rococo color and symbolic structures. Through Nov. 22. • “Intersecting Contemporary Art & Business: A Night with UBS” is a one-night panel on Nov. 20 at 6:00 p.m. featuring UBS art-advisory experts discussing the relationship between contemporary art, finance and philanthropy.
ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) Landscape and still life works by Sonja Amor on view through November.
ATHICA (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1200) “Radical Imperfection: 2025 Juried Exhibition” presents contemporary works in all media that explore the beauty of imbalance, asymmetry and unexpected outcomes. Through Nov. 23.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Halloween Forever” by artist Judah Cannerella features poster-style illustrations inspired by the pop culture of Halloween. Through Dec. 25.
ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) In the Bogue Gallery, “Over and Under: Woven by the Athena Weavers” featuring textile arts. Through Jan. 11.
AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) Works by local painter Mary Sams on view through December
CLASSIC CENTER – AKINS FORD ARENA (300 N. Thomas St.) The Richard B. Russell Special Collections Libraries will host a tour of the Georgia Music Collections, with curator Ryan Lewis guiding visitors through memorabilia celebrating Georgia musicians. Nov. 20, 6:30 p.m.
FLICKER THEATER & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) “Nineteen Drawings” by James Greer presents a series of surreal graphite and charcoal drawings. Through Nov. 25. Closing reception Nov. 25, 5–8 p.m., featuring auditory and visual offerings by Rachel Evans, grantandmatt and IXIAN.
MEETINGS: Pen Pals Writing Group (Oconee County Library) Meet other writers, share your writing experiences and get feedback on your work. Second & fourth Mondays, 5 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
MEETINGS: Honk, Please! (Let It Be Yoga) Bring your own horn or borrow one at the event to join in a musical celebration of joy and an invitation to protest. Mondays, 5:30 p.m. FREE! calclements@ gmail.com
Tuesday 25
ART: Tuesday Tour (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Join a docent led tour of the State Botanical Garden’s Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum. Every Tuesday, 2 p.m. $5. botgarden.uga.edu
ART: Closing Reception (Flicker Theatre & Bar) James Greer’s exhibition “Nineteen Drawings” will be on view with audio and visual offerings. 5 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com
CLASSES: ESL (Bogart Library) Learn and improve English skills including speaking, listening, reading and writing. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (Flying Squid Comedy) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com
A hot meal from the restaurant’s Thanksgiving dinner table. 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: Music Bingo (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Join in to play music BINGO. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.johnnyspizza.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/MellowMushroomAthens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: BINGO & Sip (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Play BINGO with a chance to win prizes. 7 p.m. FREE! www. athenskava.com
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
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
KIDSTUFF: YA Dystopian Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss The Giver by Lois Lowry with the group. Ages 12 & up. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen Silent Book Club (ACC Library) Bring a book or browse the library and enjoy peaceful reading time. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss BlueBird BlueBird by Attica Locke with the group. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Coven & Claw Reading Club (Coven & Claw Salon) Discuss this month’s selection Weyward by Emilia Hart. RSVP required. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/coven_and_claw
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) asinnajaq’s “Three Thousand” combines archival videos from the National Film Board of Canada with animations, soundscapes and contemporary video footage. Through June 28, 2026. • “Looking Through a Sewn Sky: Rachel B. Hayes” is a commissioned installation in the Jane and Harry Willson Sculpture Garden that blends sculpture, painting and craft. Through Jul. 30, 2027. • A student-curated “Museum Studies Pop-Up Exhibition: Portraits from the Collection” opens Nov. 20 at 5 p.m. and remains on view during regular hours Nov. 21 and Nov. 23.
HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) Paintings by Mark Dalling are on view through November.
JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Works by collage artist Susan Pelham are on view through November.
LAMAR DODD SCHOOL OF ART (270 River Rd.) “INCANDESCENCE: BFA Fall 2025 Capstone Exhibition” showcases new work by graduating BFA students across drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking and digital media. Opening reception Nov. 21, 5–7 p.m. Through Dec. 4. LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) In the West Gallery, “Interwoven Narratives: Caul and Response” is a collaborative work by twin sisters Sachi Rome and Tokie Rome-Taylor. The exhibit explores southern folklore surrounding the caul and the concept of double consciousness. Through Jan. 24. Artist Talk Nov. 13, 5:30 p.m. • In the lower and upper atrium, “Seams to Be: New Approaches to Textile Techniques” highlights innovative uses of needle and thread by 13 Georgia artists. Guest curated by Didi Dunphy. Through Jan. 24. • The Lobby Case features Susan Perry’s small-scale sculptures created from handmade paper and bamboo. Through Dec. 6. • In the Atrium Cases, Artist Katie Kameen recontextualizes plastic pieces to create new forms in her exhibit “Plastic Tense.” Through Jan. 24. • A two-person exhibition featuring the abstract sculptural paintings of Sebastian Garcia Huidobro alongside the brutalist architecture-inspired sculptures of Rachel Lea Seburn will be on display in the South Gallery. Through Jan. 24. • In the Nancy Lukasiewicz Gallery, “Shawn Ireland: Arts Center Choice Award Winner” showcases colorful still-life paintings by the Athens-based artist. Through Jan. 3. • In the Lounge Gallery, “Public Works: Athens Public Art Behind the Scenes” highlights the mockups, engineering drawings and design proposals behind Athens’ public art installations. Guest curated by Tatiana Veneruso. Curator talk Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m. Through Jan. 3. MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 S. Main St., Madison) “Emergence – In Black & White” features charcoal works and figure studies by Gary Hudson. Through Jan. 25.
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Clue (The Classic Center) Live-action play adaptation of the murder mystery board game. Nov. 25–26, 7:30 p.m. $33–126. www. classiccenter.com
Wednesday 26
CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 1 p.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Thanksgiving Feed the Hungry (The Sparrow’s Nest) Enjoy a buffet-style lunch and receive one bag of hygiene products per person. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.sparrowsnestathens.org
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
EVENTS: Salsa Night (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Enjoy an evening of dancing. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.panchostacosandtequila.com
FILM: Thanksgiving Double Feature (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the stop-motion classic Fantastic Mr. Fox and the comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. indigoathens.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 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: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Disney Trivia (B&B Theatres) Test your knowledge of the whole Disney universe. 7:30 p.m. 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: Story Time (Oconee County Library) Drop in for songs, fingerplays and early literacy skills. Ages 3–7. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/FilmAthens
MEETINGS: C3 to End Homelessness (Heard Park & Community Center) A roundtable discussion regarding housing and homelessness to plan steps to solutions. Fourth Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.athenshc.org/coc
THEATER: Clue (The Classic Center) Live-action play adaptation of the murder mystery board game. Nov. 25–26, 7:30 p.m. $33–126. www. classiccenter.com f
STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead)
“Steffen Thomas: Exploring His Brotherhood Credo.” Through Jan. 3. • “Tribute to Richard “Ole” Olsen.” Through Jan. 3. • “Steffen Thomas Through the Eyes of Young Adults” on display in the Educational Gallery. Final date TBA. • “1972 Trip to Germany” highlights art inspired by Thomas’ trip overseas. Final date TBA.
TAPPED ATHENS (297 Prince Ave.) Local artist Will Eskridge’s exhibition “Beach Bumz” celebrates “all things sun-soaked, wave-crashed and goodvibes-only.” Through November.
TINYATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Local artist Caitlin La Dolce’s multimedia exhibition “Thing Church” is on view through December. Opening reception Nov. 20, 6–9 p.m. Artist Talk Nov. 23, 2–5 p.m.
UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.) “Living Legends of Georgia Music,” an exhibition by Georgia-based watercolorist Jackie Dorsey, pays homage to eight iconic musicians. Through Jan. 5.
UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “From Farms to Fast Fashion: Unraveling the Need for Sustainable Style.” Through December. • David Zeiger’s photography project “Displaced in the New South” explores the cultural collision between Asian and Hispanic immigrants and the suburban Atlanta communities in the 1990s. Through December. • “Captain Planet: The Power Is Yours” explores the origins and impact of the TV series. Through May 2026. • “Sustained Excellence: A History of UGA Swim & Dive” explores the program’s history through photographs and artifacts. Through May 2026. Free tour offered at 3 p.m. on Nov. 21.
UGA CAMPUS/SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS (Athens) Month-long series of arts events including temporary visual-art displays, special gallery hours and pop-up exhibitions presented by UGA arts units. Through November. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS (780 Timothy Rd.) “Brush and Lens” features watercolors by Barb Schell paired with photography by John Schell in the Claire and Robert Clements Gallery. Through December.
WINTERVILLE CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY (371 N. Church St., Winterville) “Small Works” features 85 works all under 14 inches contributed by 60 different community artists. Through Dec. 18. • “Duets by Claire & Bob: A Lifetime of Sharing Creativity” showcases work by the Clements. Claire founded the Athens Plein Aire Painters group and was known for her cut paper botanical creations. Bob is a multi-disciplinary artist known for his landscape paintings and community sculptures. Through Dec. 18.
bulletin board & classifieds
BULLETIN BOARD: Listings from nonprofits, community resources and free opportunities. Print deadline is THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email calendar@flagpole.com.
CLASSIFIEDS: Rates are $10/individual * $14/real estate * $16/business. Deadline to place ads is FRIDAY at 10 a.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email class@flagpole.com or call 706-549-0301.
Classifieds
FOR SALE (Estate Sale) Friday Nov. 21, 12–6 p.m. and Saturday Nov. 22, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. 303 Ansonborough Ln., Athens. Vintage clothes, jewelry, blue and white, English antiques and more. Follow @ magnolia.esc for info.
JOBS (Full-time) ECC Hospitalist Services, P.C. seeks Hospitalist Physicians for Athens, GA facilities. Perform physical examination; order test and laboratory work; diagnose and treat disease, injuries, & illness. Reqs: Medical Degree (or foreign equivalent), Completion of Internal Medicine or Family Medicine residency, Eligible for GA Medical License. Qualified applicants send resume to: Melissa_ Luttmann@teamhealth.com and reference job code: 639
JOBS (Part-time) Equestrian help needed. Maintain horse/sheep/llama feeding and stall maintenance. Watkinsville/Athens area. $20/hour. Text or call 706-534-4032.
JOBS (Full-time) Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila is seeking a reliable and motivated bartender. Also seeking reliable and motivated individuals to join our team for TV and sound device installation work. Call or text 706-621-8280.
NOTICES (Lost & Found) LOST DOG
$1000 REWARD. Odin is a 12 year
old black miniature schnauzer. Lost near 441 Newton Bridge Rd. area on Aug. 4. Microchipped and has heart murmur. Please call 904-8037360. No questions asked.
MUSIC (Instruction) Athens School of Music. Now offering in-person and online instruction in guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, banjo, mandolin and more. From beginner to expert, all styles. Visit www.athensschoolof music.com. 706-543-5800
MUSIC (Musicians Wanted) 2 dope boys plus a man with an axe. Hip hop band in search of rhythm section. Must keep a tight pocket. Influences include OutKast, The Roots, Rage Against the Machine. Contact Whisper clncmmngs@ yahoo.com, 706-254-5960.
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
REAL ESTATE (Art Studio) Join 8 potters in Community Clay Studio. 75 ft.² private studio space plus access to Kilns, slab-roller, shared working table & utilities. $275/mon www.southernstarstudioathens.com
SERVICES (Health) JAMES HILTON HYPNOSIS. Help with smoking, vaping, exercise motivation and confidence issues. Harvard trained health professional. 678-895-4278, www.hiltonhypnosis.org
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Fall is here! Let’s tackle those invasives! Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible & native gardens for your school, home or business! For more info call/text 706-395-5321.
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in lowmaintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@gmail.com or call 631903-4365.
SERVICES (Travel) Retired professional driver available to deliver your vehicle or truck, one-way or round-trip, anywhere in U.S. Available locally with my vehicle, up to six passengers, on an hourly basis. Call Bob Andrews 706-608-2288 or email AthensBob5@gmail.com
Arts
AAAC QUARTERLY GRANT (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council offers $500 grants to visual and performing artists. www.athensarts. org/support
ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform to connect creatives with patrons. www.athenscreatives.directory
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals to develop an art exhibition for LHAC. www.accgov.com/9799/ ArtistCurator
CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls) Seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. careywelsh20 @gmail.com
CALL FOR ART (Donderos’) Seeking new artists to exhibit works. contact @donderoskitchen.com
CALL FOR ART (Oconee County Library) Seeking local artists to share their artwork in monthly exhibitions. adial@athenslibrary.org
CALL FOR ART (Winterville Library) Apply to be a featured local artist in the Front Room Gallery. The library accepts all 2D mediums. swatson @athenslibrary.org
CALL FOR ARTISTS (MAGallery) Now accepting artist applications. MAGallery is a nonprofit cooperative gallery. Gallery Artists work one day a month and participate on a committee. www.themadisonartists guild.org/call-for-artists
CALL FOR ARTISTS (OCAF) Artists invited to submit work for “Tiny Worlds,” a curated exhibition exploring the meaning of scale. All media and approaches welcome. Deadline Dec. 12. www.ocaf.com/ exhibitions
CALL FOR ARTISTS (ACCGov) The Leisure Services Arts Division is
seeking artists to create temporary light sculptures for display during the Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade. Submission deadline is Friday, Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. Event is Mar. 7, 2026.
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Oconee County Library, Watkinsville) Seeking submissions for variety of interior and exterior low maintenance art pieces. Deadline Dec. 1. www.athenslibrary. org/oconee, jmitchell@athens library.org
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Winterville Marigold Festival) Submit artwork to be featured on the 2026 Marigold Festival posters, T-shirts and more. Deadline Jan. 1. www.marigold festival.com
CALL FOR COLLECTORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The LHAC’s “Collections from our Community” series features objects found in the closets, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. shelby.little@accgov. com
CALL FOR MUSICAL PERFORMERS (AthFest) Applications for AthFest 2026 now open. Selection based on musical talent, following and draw, self-promotion and previous AthFest experience. Submission deadline Feb. 14, 2026. Event held June 26–28, 2026. www. athfest.com/athfest-music/
CALL FOR MUSICAL PERFORMERS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) The Marigold Market is seeking musicians for upcoming market events. All acts considered. bradley@marigoldcollective winterville.com
CALL FOR PERFORMANCE ARTISTS (Athens Pride and Queer Collective) Seeking trans and gender non-conforming performers for upcoming event Operation Transformation. Event held Dec. 5. www.athenspride.org
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper. Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics. enagementcoordinator @athenshc.org
LIFE DRAWING (Winterville Cultural Center) Open studios for artists 18 & up to draw unclothed models. Every third Wednesday of the month, 1–4 p.m. A muscle in movement study with authentic Olympic banner backdrop Dec. 6 & 17. Registration required for all events. www.drawathens.org
OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for photography, ceramics and more. www.accgov. com/7350/Open-StudioMembership
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST (Firefly Trail Inc.) Submit black and white or color photography for the categories “people enjoying the Firefly Trail” and “scenes of the Firefly Trail.” Photos will be judged by professional photographers, and winning entries will be displayed at the Winterville Cultural Center. Deadline Jan. 8, 2026. Winners will be announced February 2026. www. fireflytrail.com
POET LAUREATE (ACCGov) The Leisure Services Arts Division’s Poet Laureate program is now accepting applications. Application deadline Friday, Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. www. accgov.com/11626/Public-Art
Auditions
DECK THE HOLLOW (ACT) Seeking actors, storytellers, musicians and singers for event at Bear Hollow Zoo. Virtual auditions held through Nov. 30. In-person auditions held Dec. 4, 4–7 p.m. Event held Dec. 11–14. act@accgov.com, 706613-3628
MAD SCIENTISTS IN LOVE (Town & Gown) Auditions for this romantic comedy will be held Dec. 7–8. Performances held Feb. 6–15, 2026. info@townandgownplayers. org, www.townandgownplayers.org/ auditions
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Master Chorale) Seeking new members in all voice parts including high sopranos, tenors and basses. Scheduled auditions held at St. Gregory the Great Church. athmcdirector@ gmail.com
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) The Athens Symphony is holding auditions for qualified musicians. www.athenssymphony. org/openings
THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES (The Cottage) Open to all ages, backgrounds, those who identify as women or those who identify with having a vagina. Auditions held Dec. 1, 4 and 9, 6:30–8:30 p.m. and Dec. 7, 2–7 p.m.. Performances Feb. 5–7, 2026. www. northgeorgiacottage.org
Classes
ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 & up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com
BASIC CROCHETING (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn the basics of crocheting. Materials provided during class session. Every Thursday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. or 6:30–8:30 p.m. $100 for project series, $20 drop-in. www.wintervillecenter.com
CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships
CUBAN MUSIC & MOVEMENT
(The Studio Athens) TIMBAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Sundays, 3 p.m. (Level 1), 4 p.m. (Level 2 & 3), 5 p.m. (Advanced). Through Dec. 7, no class Oct. 19. $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 more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/myrec
FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfreeschool on Instagram.
OPEN ICE SKATING (Akins Ford Arena) Athens GA Figure Skating Club offers open ice skating for all skill levels every Monday through Thursday, 4–5 p.m. $10 students, $15 general admission. RSVP required. Athensgafigureskating@ gmail.com, athens_ga_figure_ skating_club
Help Out
ANIMAL SERVICES VOLUNTEERS
(Animal Services Adoption Center) Volunteers needed for daily interactions with the shelter dogs. Sessions run Monday through Friday; training session required. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. www.tidycal.com/animalservices volunteer
ATHENS SKATEPARK PROJECT
(Athens Skate Park) Seeking volunteers and community input. Third Sundays. www.athensskatepark project.org
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
DIAPER DONATIONS (Athens Area Diaper Bank) Diaper donations needed for local infants. All sizes and open packs/boxes are accepted. www.athensareadiaper bank.com
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT (Friends of Disabled Adults and Children) Free home medical equipment provided to those in need. Athens locations for pickup at Northeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging and Multiple Choices. www.fodac.org
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. 706-850-4025, dmyers@ multiplechoices.us
PET FOOD PANTRY (Animal Services Adoption Center) The Animal Services community pet food pantry provides pet food to ACC residents at no cost. Donations always welcome. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sundays, 12–3 p.m. www.accgov.com/adoptioncenter
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. thebiggervisionshelter@gmail.com, www.bvoa.org/boardmember
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Moms Adopting Moms) Local nonprofit seeks board members, including a chair and treasurer, to support foster children and families through mentorship and reunification. momsadoptingmoms@ gmail.com
SEEKING 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 DONATIONS (Hands of Hope) Local homeless ministry accepting donations of winter clothing for their free distribution program. Other donations accepted for fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting program.706-207-5172
SEEKING DONATIONS (Sparrow’s Nest) Now accepting new, sealed hygiene products. Drop-off location at ACC Library until Nov. 24. sheatssocialservices@gmail.com
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Historic Athens) Volunteers and coordinators needed for the Welcome Center’s new field trip program. Completion of virtual training program and background check required. bit.ly/athenswelcome volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (KACCB) Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful has volunteer opportunities that include roadside cleanups, adopt-a-ramp and more. www. keepathensbeautiful.org
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) Volunteers needed for community food distribution events including weekly food kitchen, meal deliveries and more. Also accepting donations of canned and dry goods. wwwmarigold collectivewinterville.com
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Meals on Wheels) Currently recruiting volunteers to deliver meals, engage in safety checks and more. eschley@ accaging.org
SEEING VOLUNTEERS (Morton Theatre) Volunteers needed for upcoming events. Board Member opportunities also available. www. mortontheatre.com/volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Shoal Creek Sanctuary) Volunteers needed for variety of events including invasive plant removal, plant adoptions and more. First Sundays, 1–3:30 p.m. www.shoalcreek sanctuary.org/volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (St. Mary’s Home Health & Hospice) Seeking volunteers to provide companionship or to help with simple tasks for those in hospice care. Training provided. 706-389-2273
TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store.
Please bring credentials. www. accgov.com/trs
TOWELS FOR ANIMALS (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 after hours. www.accgov.com/ animalservices
VOLUNTEER NETWORK (Community Works, Watkinsville) A nonprofit organization that connects volunteers of all ages to events, resources and training opportunities. CWorksOC@gmail.com
Kidstuff
YOUTH MENTORSHIP (Waymaker) Registration open to match teens with one-on-one flexible tutoring services. Focus on academics, confidence building, life skills and more. Volunteers are also welcome to apply. www.way-makers.org
YOUTH PROGRAMS (Sheats Social Services) Registration now open for a variety of weekly programs that provide educational and community support for K-12 students. Volunteers are also needed. www. sheatssocialservices.org
WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION (Athens, GA) The Leisure Services Department offers a diverse selection of activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events. Now registering. www. accgov.com/myrec
Word on the Street
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
BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations located across Athens with tools, an air pump and more. www. accgov.com/10584/Bike-RepairStations
COMMUNITY RUNNING GROUPS (Athens Road Runners) Weekly community runs for all skill levels including “Speed Workout” (Wednesdays, 5:30 a.m.) and “Fun Runs” (Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays, 7:15 a.m.). www.athens roadrunners.org
FRIDAY EVENTS (Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living) The organization hosts ongoing Friday gatherings. Tech discussions, support groups, movies and games. www.multiplechoices.us/youreinvited
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (Nuçi’s Space) Direct connections to mental healthcare and more. www.nuci. org, 706-227-1515
MINDFUL BREATH SANGHA MEETING (Healing Lodge) In the Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Sundays, 1–2:30 p.m. Newcomers welcome. Free. www.mindfulbreathsangha.org
MICROCHIP SCANNING STATIONS
(Multiple Locations) Connect lost pets with their owners via scanning stations. Available 24 hours. Located at ACC Animals Services, Memorial Park Dog Park and Southeast Clarke Park. Instructions provided at each location.
SEVENTH GENERATION (No. 3 Railroad Street, Arnoldsville) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts various gatherings on Sundays, 11 a.m. 706-340-7134
VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA) Seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive. www.vhsordie.com f
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH HENDERSHOT’S
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 TH JAZZ JAM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST ATHENS SHOWGIRL CABARET FABULOUS FRIDAY'S
TUESDAY,
If 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 Get your life back. Get help.
hours/day
Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia
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
Will Lily triumph with a heroic flush? Will Athens’ sewers flow freely again? Send us your best final panel idea—or even draw your own comic strip. Email your ending by Dec 5, 2025 to savewater@accgov.com, and use the 4Ps to help Lily and Tad keep Athens clog-free!
Slow and Steady WINTER GARDEN
CHORES FOR A BETTER SPRING
able in the next few months as sellers resupply from their farms and serious bulk customers buy fast. I have two shopping carts full of shade-loving native perennials I want to use to make my woods look even more magical based on Oudolf’s inspiration. These include, but are not limited to, black cohosh, blood root, sourwood, hollies, running cedar and spotted wintergreen. I’ve got a deadline to hit the “purchase” button this week before their availability disappears.
Check out your trees. I recently attended a tree risk workshop online with Edward Morrow, an International Society of Arbo-
downstream (both literal and figurative) problems. Instead, spread mulch. Mulch will slowly decompose during the next few months and provide your garden sprouts with tasty nutrients. Avoid mulch treated with chemicals, such as hay sprayed with glyphosate or wood debris painted red. These will not help your garden grow.
Do your research. If you’re interested in growing a particular plant or trying a particular growing technique, now is the time to research it—not in the hectic spring. I bought three naturalistic landscaping books last month that I keep stashed on my desk. When I have a chance in the afternoon, I pull one out and read a chapter while sipping on a hot cup of tea. Infinitely better than doomscrolling. I watched a recent PBS story on Piet Oudolf, a Dutch landscape designer who uses primarily native perennials to create naturalistic and highly textured gardens. Inspired, I ordered Planting: A New Perspective by Oudolf and Noel Kingsbury and am poring over the pages. While I’m not planning a huge garden overall, I like the height in his gardens, the intermingling of species and the focus on pattern. I want to bring these techniques into my own garden.
Buy must-haves (within your budget). Don’t wait until the seed catalogs come out to order a variety you must have. They could be gone by the time that lovely anachronistic catalog prints. Availability for some seeds, bulbs and trees will be highly change-
riculture certified arborist, an online class offered through the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Morrow focused on commonsense pruning techniques and safety assessments for landscape trees. Simply put, Morrow said safety is a leading factor in deciding when and if a tree should come down. If you have a pine snag in your front yard—and it’s not going to hit your car, roof, power line or anything else important when it falls—don’t worry about it. If you have a lovely but rotten- to- the- core oak tree leaning threateningly toward your roof, it could be better to remove it. He also advocated for removing lower limbs blocking a driver’s line of sight and cutting back damaged limbs to limit opportunities for insects and diseases.
I admit, I’m still in the process of learning how to prune. Though I’ve attended multiple pruning classes and practiced on my small orchard, I’m still making mistakes and learning as I go. Though pruning can be a bit scary, I love setting up some of the trimmed bits for propagation. There’s something magical about taking an unwanted stick, sitting it in a mixture of compost and sand, and then having it grow roots a few months later. Whether you take a class, read a book or watch an educational YouTube video, winter is a great time to learn more and get inspiration for the year ahead. f
This mulberry tree looks majestic during last year’s winter snows. I usually clean up dead limbs in the late fall. Because they’re already aged and mostly dry, they make excellent firewood.
ERIN
by Margie E. Burke
by Margie E. Burke
SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS EVENTS
THEATRE
@ugatheatre | ugatheatre.com UGA Department of Theatre and Film
Performing at the Fine Arts Theatre
255 Baldwin St. Athens, GA
MUSIC
@ugamusic | music.uga.edu
Hugh Hodgson School of Music
Performing at the UGA Performing Arts Center
230 River Road Athens, GA
@uga_dodd_art | art.uga.edu
Lamar Dodd School of Art 270 River Road Athens, GA
MUSIC
@ugamusic | music.uga.edu
Hugh Hodgson School of Music
Performing at the UGA Performing Arts Center
230 River Road Athens, GA
NOV 19
“Evil Dead: The Musical”
Follow a group of friends as they venture into the proverbial “cabin in the woods,” unwittingly unleashing ancient forces, disgusting demons, and a rollicking soundtrack. The musical’s wild blend of slapstick comedy and horror tropes makes for a devilishly good time.
Annual Holiday Concert
An Athens holiday tradition! Join the Symphony Orchestra, Hodgson Singers, Wind Ensemble, British Brass Band, Bassoon Choir and more! Featured pieces include Bernstein’s “Chichester Psalms” and a world premiere by this year’s student composer in residence.
Fall BFA Exit Show “INCANDESCENCE” Opening Reception
Dodd Galleries: Join us in celebrating the BFA students graduating at the end of Fall Semester with a reception and a viewing of their last show at the Dodd. FREE EVENT
Artists includes: Younis Abdulkadir, Katherine Ashley, Lily Blumenthal, Rae Bumgardner, Francie Carson, Victoria Cliff, Karlie J Evans, Meredith Harris, Emily Long, Ashera Ly, Marie Annette McBride, Abigail Montgomery Stevenson, Anna Trevathan, Karsyn Van Houten, Marcella Vlahos Cole Williamson, Dylan Williamson.
African American Choral Ensemble Fall Concert UGA Repertory Singers present “The Messiah”
Join us for an evening of songs and spirituals with music born from the African American experience. This performance is free.
This popular Handel oratorio will features the choir and a full chamber orchestra. This performance is free.
