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Student’s Murder Shocks City

GOP SEIZES ON KILLER’S IMMIGRATION STATUS IN LAKEN RILEY’S DEATH

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

The murder of 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley sent the UGA and Athens community into a state of shock last week that escalated when the city became the center of a political firestorm over immigration policy.

The man accused of killing Riley while she was jogging near Lake Herrick the morning of Feb. 22—Jose Antonio Ibarra, 26—is not a U.S. citizen, UGA Police Chief Jeff Clark announced at a Feb. 23 news conference. Immediately, Republicans pounced, accusing Athens of being a “sanctuary city,” pointing to a 2019 resolution the county commission passed condemning white supremacy and welcoming immigrants regardless of their documentation.

“The blood of Laken Riley is on the hands of Joe Biden, [Homeland Security Secretary] Alejandro Mayorkas, and the government of Athens-Clarke County,”

review of his case due to overcrowding at the detention center where he was being held.

Ibarra’s brother, Diego Ibarra, was charged with presenting a fake green card when authorities questioned him because he resembled the suspect they were looking for. No such charges have been filed against Jose Ibarra, who was booked into the Athens-Clarke County Jail on Friday night on charges of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, kidnapping, false imprisonment, hindering a 911 call, concealing the death of another person and failure to appear for a fingerprintable charge.

Athens’ congressman, Republican Mike Collins, tweeted just minutes after the news conference ended. “The Venezuelan suspect in Laken Riley’s murder is one of millions of illegal aliens that the Biden administration has released into this country to be welcomed with open arms by Democrat-run sanctuary jurisdictions.”

With the border shaping up to be a key issue in this year’s presidential race, other Republicans quickly piled on. Gov. Brian Kemp sent a public letter to the Biden administration demanding to know Ibarra’s immigration status. Republican state legislators are now mulling another crackdown on immigration, though it’s unclear at this point what form that might take.

“Let me be clear—this tragedy was created by the inaction of politicians to fix our broken immigration system, and it has been exacerbated over the past three years by an administration that has refused to secure our southern border,” House Speaker Jon Burns said in a news release Saturday, Feb. 24. “But there are certainly also questions surrounding the administration of justice at the local level, and House leadership will be pressing for answers over the coming days as to why exactly the suspect and his brother continued to roam freely in the Athens area.”

Republicans also renewed their attacks on embattled District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez, who pledged to “work tirelessly” to convict violent criminals.

Clark said Friday that authorities were unsure of Ibarra’s immigration status, adding that he did not have a history of violent crime. That remained true until Sunday night, when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that Jose Ibarra had crossed the border at El Paso, TX illegally. He was detained and applied for asylum due to the violence in his native Venezuela, then was released pending a

The last charge stemmed from a recent shoplifting arrest in Athens, according to court documents filed over the weekend. Past charges also included a DUI in Athens and endangering a child in New York City, where he stayed for a time with his wife and child. It appears that Jose Ibarra moved to Athens because his brother Diego had obtained a job as a dishwasher there; however, UGA said Diego Ibarra was only employed for a short time because he could not provide proper documentation.

Sadly, the political ramifications and national media attention overshadowed Riley’s life and death. Originally from Woodstock, she ran track in high school and continued to be an avid jogger while attending UGA, where she made the dean’s list and joined the Alpha Chi Omega sorority. Last spring, she transferred to Augusta University’s Athens nursing program to finish her degree.

“The College of Nursing will miss Laken’s spirit on campus, and our hearts go out to her family and friends,” Augusta University said in a statement. “We know that she would have been a wonderful nurse, and her passing is a loss for the profession and the communities she would have graciously served.”

At first, the University of Georgia seemed to distance itself from Riley. Initially, UGA said the victim was not a student there, and did not acknowledge that she had attended UGA until releasing her name the next day.

A friend reported Riley missing shortly after noon on Thursday, Feb. 22, because she had not come back from jogging. Half an hour later, police found her body on a trail near Lake Herrick.

Friday, police were seen detaining several men at the Cielo Azulak apartment complex off South Milledge Avenue, adjacent to the Intramural Fields woods. Only one of those men, Jose Ibarra, was charged, and Clark said he acted alone.

“This was an individual who woke up with bad intentions that day,” Clark said. Ibarra and Riley did not know each other,

he added, describing the killing as a “crime of opportunity.”

Combined with the death of another student last week, Riley’s killing set students on edge, prompting UGA to cancel classes last Friday. They were expected to resume on Monday.

“The past 24 hours have been a traumatic time for our University,” the administration said in a Feb. 22 statement. “Our student body is grieving the sudden death of one [of] our students in Brumby Hall last night. And as we continue to mourn that tragic loss of life, today’s devastating news will uniquely test the resolve of our campus community, particularly our students.”

At press time, Riley’s sorority and another Greek organization were planning a memorial for her at 3 p.m. last Monday at the Tate Center. Kemp was expected to address the issue at an Athens Area Chamber of Commerce breakfast Monday morning. Collins canceled a previously scheduled speech at an Oconee County GOP meeting, and was replaced by Gonzalez critic Kevin Epps. As this is a developing story, please check flagpole.com for the latest updates.

Low-Income Home Loans

The Athens-Clarke County Commission is set to approve a no-interest loan program for low-income first-time homebuyers next week as the local government continues to grapple with housing costs that have risen beyond reach for many residents.

Commissioners are expected to vote Mar. 5 to partner with First American Bank & Trust on the $718,400 program, funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act as part of the Justice and Memory Project. ACC has committed to spending $2.5 million on reparations for former Linnentown residents whose homes were taken by UGA and the city in the 1960s and razed to build the Baxter Street dorms.

“This is probably one of the best partnerships that I have seen,” Commissioner Ovita Thornton said at the Feb. 20 agenda-setting meeting. Commissioners praised the choice of First American Bank & Trust over other applicants because the bank has experience as a lender and offered a very low overhead

rate, meaning almost 99% percent of the funding will go to homebuyers. The program targets buyers who earn 65–80% of the area median income.

Short-Term Rentals Redux

Athens residents who are eager to find out whether Athens-Clarke commissioners are leaning toward weakening recently passed restrictions on short-term rentals will have to wait a while longer. But one direction they could be headed is an appeals process that would allow investors who’ve recently purchased an STR to gain an extension on the sunset provision included in the legislation that passed Feb. 6.

At a Feb. 19 meeting of the commission’s Government Operations Committee, assistant county attorney John Hawkins suggested a “relief valve” involving some sort of administrative appeals process. An STR owner who’s not also the occupant could go before a hearings officer and argue that they had bought the property under the impression that it could be used as an STR, and that due to the sunset clause they cannot recoup their investment. If successful, the owner could be granted an extension. It’s possible that such a procedure could insulate the county against legal claims that the sunset clause amounts to a “taking” under Georgia law.

The GOC is scheduled to meet again Feb. 29 and come up with some sort of policy recommendation in mid-March. That recommendation would have to go to the planning commission, an appointed advisory board, before coming back to the county commission for a vote in May, under a compromise brokered by Mayor Kelly Girtz when ACC commissioners deadlocked on the STR proposal earlier this month.

Meanwhile, state Rep. Houston Gaines (R-Athens) told Flagpole—in comments after last week’s print deadline—that a House bill banning local governments from regulating existing STRs would not affect Athens-Clarke County, since it was filed after the ACC Commission passed its ordinance. Gaines said he couldn’t comment on the substance of the bill because it’s undergoing revisions. f

Laken Riley

UGA Gets Healthier ATHENS MEDICAL SCHOOL WILL GROW IN COMING YEARS

By Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com

AUniversity of Georgia medical school could quickly add millions of dollars annually to the local economy, but it will take a while before it puts much of a dent in the state’s serious doctor shortage.

Under a feasibility plan approved by the University System Board of Regents earlier this month, the planned medical school’s enrollment would grow incrementally from the 60 students per year now admitted to the Augusta University-University of Georgia Medical Partnership, operated as a kind of satellite campus of Augusta University’s Medical College of Georgia since it launched with 40 first-year medical students in 2010.

ing to the feasibility study.

The UGA medical school will be just the second in the state’s public college and university system. Georgia’s four private medical schools—Emory University, Mercer University, Morehouse College and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine—mint about twice as many Georgia doctors annually as the public Medical College of Georgia.

Gov. Brian Kemp budgeted $50 million in state money for the medical school’s startup expenses even before the Board of Regents’ vote. That funding has made it through the state House of Representatives and the Senate Finance Committee, with a full Senate vote the only obstacle remaining.

Unlike the regents’ 2008 vote to establish the medical partnership, this week’s approval came as a routine vote without controversy. When UGA moved to take over the shuttered Navy Supply Corps School’s campus in 2007—during University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue’s gubernatorial administration—Augusta officials pushed back against a UGA-run medical school. But this time Augusta University is on board with the plan.

Students who graduate from the partnership, housed on UGA’s Health Sciences Campus in Normaltown, currently receive their degrees from the Medical College of Georgia. Beginning with the first class to enter an accredited standalone UGA medical school, as early as fall, 2026, they’ll be enrolled at UGA.

The feasibility study by the Tripp Umbach consulting firm calls for a first-year class of 60 in 2026–27, increasing in steps to 120 per class in the 2032–33 academic year. Tripp Umbach also conducted the feasibility study for the medical partnership, a typical first step in establishing new schools of medicine.

Georgia, which consistently ranks among the worst states in health measures, also ranks in the bottom 10 nationally in practicing physicians per capita, and dead last among the 41 states with public medical colleges in the number of public medical school students per 100,000 residents— less than half the national average, accord-

Let’s (Not) Talk About Sex

CULTURE WARS UNDER THE GOLD DOME

By Ross Williams news@flagpole.com

Sex—that’s what students in Georgia could be hearing less about if a raft of legislation moving through state Senate committees keeps moving before the big legislative deadline at the end of the month.

In the final scheduled hearing of the Senate Committee on Education and Youth before Crossover Day, senators passed bills aimed at removing “harmful materials” from school libraries and eliminating sex education for fourth-graders and younger. In a separate meeting, the Senate Committee on Government Oversight passed bills aiming to cut ties with the American Library Association, as well as authorizing schools to display the Ten Commandments and employ school chaplains.

UGA President

Jere Morehead said the school will match that with outside sources such as donations and grants.

Expanding to 120 students per class will require up to $96 million in capital costs, according to the Tripp Umbach report.

Since medical school professors are among the highest-paid in academia, a major continuing cost of expansion will be salaries. But infrastructure for the school is largely in place already, owing to the existence of the medical partnership, Morehead said.

A school of medicine will also give a big boost to UGA research revenues, according to Morehead, building on existing strengths such as biomedical engineering, life sciences and veterinary medicine. UGA receives more National Institutes of Health funding annually than any other public university without a medical school ($75.9 million) and with a medical school could double that by 2030, according to the feasibility report. Federal research grants are one of the largest revenue sources for medical schools. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, in the 2022 fiscal year grants accounted for nearly five times the amount received in tuition and fees ($5.8 billion).

Though it won’t be soon, the new UGA medical school could alleviate the state’s critical shortage in primary care physicians, according to the consultants. Primary care is a focus of the medical partnership, and that focus would continue in the UGA medical school, according to the feasibility report. About 70% of partnership graduates at least initially choose a primary care specialty, according to the consultants.

The report identifies the Northeast Georgia Healthcare System, Piedmont Healthcare and St. Mary’s Health Care System as interested partners to provide clinical training. f

Education Committee Chair Sen. Clint Dixon’s Senate Bill 394 aims to set up new standards for schools to restrict so-called harmful materials. The sticking point was part of the state’s definition for sexual conduct: “actual or simulated acts of masturbation, homosexuality, sexual intercourse, or physical contact in an act of apparent sexual stimulation or gratification with a person’s clothed or unclothed genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or, if such person is female, breasts.”

The inclusion of the word “homosexuality” in the state’s definition of sexual conduct led some Democrats and members of the public to fear books depicting same-sex relationships would be targeted for removal even if they are not graphic or sexual.

Last year, the American Library Association reported an increase in the number of books challenged in libraries and that “most of the challenges were to books written by or about a person of color or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.” A former Cobb County teacher is in an ongoing legal battle after she was fired for reading a picture book called My Shadow is Purple. That book is not explicit, but some parents said a book starring a gender non-binary character was not appropriate.

“It’s like an attempt to indoctrinate values,” said Sen. Elena Parent (D-Atlanta). “The claim has been, ‘Oh, there’s all this indoctrination.’ Well, there’s a lot of indoctrination in trying to wipe out discussions about past history, racism or gay kids, and it’s not going to happen, OK? It’s not going to happen.”

Dixon said gay people are not being targeted, and the law applies equally to any kind of smut hiding on school shelves. “It has to do with sexual content in books, heterosexual, homosexual, any of that. We don’t want to expose our kids to any of that. When they’re minors, there’s no business for them to be looking at any of that,” he said.

The committee also passed a library bill backed by Cumming Republican Sen. Greg Dolezal that removes an exception for school libraries in state code banning distribution of materials harmful to minors. Librarians said they feared they could lose their jobs if they inadvertently hand out a book a parent finds objectionable. The

committee approved an amendment to the bill carving out a defense for libraries that have made good faith efforts to remove all harmful materials.

An effort to cut ties with the American Library Association over culture war clashes also moved through committee after sponsor Sen. Larry Walker, a Perry Republican, removed language that vexed librarians and the schools that teach them. Walker said the latest version of the bill would allow Valdosta State University to continue paying the ALA to accredit its library master’s program.

Dixon also found approval for a bill reshaping how and when Georgia students learn about the birds and bees. His SB 532 would prohibit sex education before fifth grade and states that no public school system would be required to offer sex education at all. Instead of parents who don’t want their kids learning about sex from their teachers opting out, parents would have to opt in. Dixon said the bill allows for age-appropriate lessons on child abuse awareness and prevention as well as menstruation.

Stephanie Tanner, a lobbyist with the Georgia School Board Association, said the opt-in feature could rile local districts. “Our major concern with the way the bill reads is that it overrides local control and requires sex education to be an opt-in by parents,” she said. “Currently, as we’ve discussed, state law requires parents to be allowed to review the materials for sex education and opt their child out of sex ed. So just a little unclear about that piece of the bill, what the goal is there. It feels overly burdensome and like we’re creating this time consuming administrative and record-keeping process and that doesn’t seem to go with the spirit of the bill otherwise.”

Tyrone Sen. Marty Harbin’s SB 501 allows schools to place copies of the Ten Commandments in each classroom, and his SB 379 could help bring in someone to explain what they mean by bringing in chaplains to serve in schools.

“We have chaplains currently in our military, we have chaplains in our prisons and correctional institutes, we have chaplains in our universities and colleges, our sports teams have them, fire and police all have chaplains, but a chaplain is missing in the sense of our schools today,” he said.

Harbin said chaplains will be able to perform many of the duties of school counselors but also be more of an informal advisor and confidant.

Georgia ACLU First Amendment policy advocate Sarah Hunt-Blackwell said her group does not agree. “We oppose this bill because it jeopardizes the safety and well-being of non-Christian students and LGBTQ+ students in Georgia,” she said. “There’s no language accounting for the First Amendment right of religious expression for all religious beliefs. Most chaplains are ‘Christian-based, readied with a biblical perspective.’ That’s a direct quote from the National School Chaplain Association website.” f

UGA’s Health Sciences Campus off Prince Avenue houses a UGA-Augusta University medical school partnership that will soon be taken over by UGA and expand.

DOROTHY KOZLOWSKI/UGA MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

The Voice of the People

ALTERNATIVE JOURNALISM IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER

By Pete McCommons pete@flagpole.com

January zipped by and now February before I realized that Jan. 3 was the 50th anniversary of The Athens Observer’s first issue in 1974.

What was the Observer? It was what was called at the time a “free-circulation alternative weekly.” Alternative to what?

To the Athens Daily News and the Athens Banner-Herald—the morning and afternoon papers owned by the Morris corporation in Augusta. They, in spite of their out-oftown ownership, toed the chamber of commerce line and supported the University of Georgia administration without question. They also did everything they could to discourage their advertisers from trying the upstart Observer

The upstarts had no money and no newspaper experience, but they had years of involvement in university and community efforts to bring about a more progressive town and campus. They knew what’s what and who’s who, and they were a likable bunch who, even when they opposed politicians, could join them for a beer after work.

The Observer caught on because the zeitgeist was changing; more students stayed in Athens after dropping out or graduating since the Vietnam war was winding down, and they could safely leave school and open local businesses, as the Observer folks had done, creating a new advertising base.

a new dimension to local coverage, skimpy as it was.

The Observer changed ownership several times and eventually went out of business in 2001. By then Flagpole was going strong, having started in 1987—another shoestring effort, grounded in a strong connection with the Athens music scene and the realization that government and politics strongly affected that scene and could not be ignored.

Now, 50 years after the Observer started and 36 since the beginning of Flagpole, we still cannot take our progressive Athens for granted. The conservative business community has reared its head and threatens to take back the town, and the university is totally run by a top-down corporate administration, with faculty and student rights ever eroding, while Athens-Clarke County has been gerrymandered out of the legislature and is almost totally “represented” by white men with comfortable majorities in other counties.

In earlier days the political battles the Observer and Flagpole fought were settled democratically at the ballot box, where for a long time their candidates usually lost. And then they started winning, and their progressive vision for Athens began to be reflected in local government, in spite of the loss of representation in the legislature.

Bail Bill Will Hurt the Poor

PRE-TRIAL DEFENDANTS WHO CAN’T PAY WILL LANGUISH IN

By John Cole Vodicka news@flagpole.com

Earlier this month, the Georgia legislature passed a draconian bail bond measure which, if signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp, will further crush the poor and people of color caught up in our state’s criminal legal system.

Senate Bill 63 adds 30 offenses—many of them misdemeanors—where judges will be prohibited from setting cash-free bonds. The bill also makes it increasingly difficult for individuals and charitable groups like the Oconee Street United Methodist Church’s Community Bail Initiative in Athens to post cash bonds on behalf of indigent defendants locked up in the Athens-Clarke County Jail.

Since June

2021, the OSUMC Community Bail Initiative has posted cash bonds for 74 people confined in our jail because they were unable to purchase their pretrial liberty. Thirty-five of this number were homeless. Many of the 74 were essentially living hand to mouth, some with mental health diagnoses, others hounded by alcohol and/or drug-related issues. Most had been locked up for allegedly committing misdemeanor offenses. As a result of their marginalization in our community, and their poverty, these 74 women and men spent a combined 2,188 days in jail before their cash bonds were posted. The majority of bonds the Community Bail Initiative has posted have been for less than $100, some as low as $10 or even $1 in a half-dozen instances.

JAIL

law has very little to do with safety or justice in our community or deterring crime across the state. Mandating cash bail will almost exclusively negatively impact those who already face disproportionate barriers in the criminal legal system. Even without SB 63, the sinister cash bail system denies the poor and marginalized their fundamental right to the presumption of innocence. What SB 63 will most certainly do is bring higher pretrial detention costs for ACC taxpayers to fork over and increased revenue for the predatory bail bond industry.

“ Senate Bill 63 adds 30 offenses—many of them misdemeanors— where judges will be prohibited from setting cash-free bonds.

KAI SCHREIBER

The Observer became the voice of this new Athens that was emerging from the older, more conservative status quo. The Observer supported the election of more Black candidates and women and liberals to the all-white-men conservative city council, county commission and the state legislature. And the Observer also became the voice of the UGA faculty who were resisting their loss of collegial government to a corporate top-down model being shoved down their throats.

But the Observer editors thought just because they owned a newspaper didn’t mean they were smarter than other folks, so they kept the paper open to all shades of opinion, and the paper became like a community forum, whereas the Morris papers adhered to the party lines of business leaders and the university administration.

The Observer definitely gave a push to the more progressive and inclusive Athens that has become familiar to us, and its alumni are still all over town—editors, writers, layout artists, photographers, delivery people and also veterans of Observer TV, which started up in the early ’80s and added

But the game has changed. At the behest of conservative businessmen, “our” legislators swooped in and abolished three of our most progressive, democratically elected commissioners—just did away with their districts and forced new elections favorable to more conservative candidates, drastically curtailing our progressive commission. More hijinks will probably ensue when Mayor Kelly Girtz’s term ends.

Athens-Clarke County needs an alternative voice more than ever. The Daily News is gone, and the Banner-Herald is now owned by the national newspaper chain Gannett, with no local ownership whatsoever. The university is owned by state politicians and the athletic association, and the commission is increasingly owned by the more conservative elements of local business and their fixers in the legislature.

The spirit of the Athens Observer belongs not to the past but to the present, and it currently lives in Flagpole and is reflected in citizens here who believe in democratic ideals democratically achieved. That’s why independent journalism matters. That’s why there’s no other alternative. f

If SB 63 becomes law on July 1, more and more of ACC’s homeless, mentally ill and addicted residents will find themselves in jail unable to purchase their pretrial freedom because our magistrate judges will be required to set some amount of cash bail, even for minor offenses like trespassing, theft by taking or deception, battery, misdemeanor obstruction or unlawful assembly. Persons with a “failure to appear” as many as five years ago (even for a traffic citation), or a felony arrest in the last seven years will be ineligible for a no-cash bond. The bill more than doubles the list of offenses for which a judge must order cash bail. Even when a judge determines that the person is not a public safety risk, that judge will be forced to order a cash bond.

As the OSUMC Community Bail Initiative has learned, even cash bonds of a few dollars can keep impoverished misdemeanor defendants in jail for days, sometimes weeks or even months. Conversely, someone with money charged with the exact same offense, will be able to pay to get out of the jailhouse almost immediately.

Despite what SB 63’s proponents claim—Athens Rep. Houston Gaines, the bill’s co-sponsor, among them—the new

Equally disturbing is SB 63’s intention to significantly hinder the ability of individuals and organizations to pay bail on behalf of jailed people in Georgia. The bill reads that “no more than three cash bonds may be posted per year by any individual, corporation, charity, non-profit corporation or group in any jurisdiction.” The bill would also require any entity purporting “to be a charitable bail fund with the purpose of soliciting donations to use for securing the release of accused persons” to register as professional bail bondsman with the sheriff’s office, which requires fingerprinting and a full background check. This obviously would severely impact the OSUMC Community Bail Initiative’s ability to function. In 2023 alone, the initiative posted its third cash bond on Jan. 31, and 45 more during the remainder of last year. SB 63 would have prohibited those 45 inmates from accessing the Community Bail Initiative’s resources, forcing them to remain in jail.

The Georgia ACLU has promised a lawsuit if Gov. Kemp signs SB 63 into law, arguing the bill is a blatant violation of the First Amendment and the Georgia Constitution. “In a state that already locks up more of its people than any other state in the country, SB 63 will dramatically increase the number of Georgians languishing in our jails,” the ACLU stated in a press release. “We can’t allow the state to enact a system in which a person’s freedom is determined by the amount of money in their wallet.”

Indeed, SB 63 should be alarming to anyone who values a free society. It is a harmful, regressive piece of legislation clearly designed to further block and reduce poor people’s routes to freedom. f

An early issue, showing the Athens Observer’s commitment to the bare facts.

good growing

Growing ’Shrooms

NO, NOT THE MAGIC KIND—THE KIND THAT TASTE GOOD

By Erin France news@flagpole.com

If you’ve got the itch to add something new to your garden, consider a leaf-strewn, treeshrouded spot or protected porch corner for growing mushrooms. You can even grow them indoors. Mushrooms aren’t a new addition to gardening, but can get lost in the shuffle of bright, spring annuals, veggie patches and showy perennials.

Sara Skinner, farmer and owner of Classic City Gourmet Mushrooms, started growing mushrooms in shadier garden patches about 15 years ago as a way to maximize the productive space in her yard. The more she learned about mushrooms, the more she grew and experimented. Four years ago, Skinner began selling her cultivated and foraged mushrooms, as well as easy grow kits, in the Athens area.

The grow buckets are a simple way for folks—even those swearing to have a black thumb—to try their hand at mushrooms, she said. “Mushrooms want to grow,” Skinner said. “It’s self-contained. Everything it needs to grow, it’s in the bucket.”

Fahrenheit. Outside growers should consider harvesting the mushrooms a little smaller and sooner than the same bucket grown indoors, Skinner said. “Everything likes to eat mushrooms, not just humans,” she said.

When you’re thinking about fungi, consider what you like to eat. Oyster mushrooms are beautiful and have a seafood-y flavor. Lion’s mane looks like a stalactite coming, very slowly, to life and tastes a little like crab. Shiitakes are sturdy, meaty specimens and easy to cook.

Unfortunately, some of the most prized fungi species don’t fruit in a domesticated setting. I love the apricot-smelling, almost sweet flavor of chanterelles. I’ve never tried a morel, but I hear they live up to the chef hype. Neither chanterelles nor morels grow easily in human-controlled environments.

If you’re stumped on what to grow first, blue oyster mushrooms are some of the easiest for beginners, whether indoors or out, Skinner said. More ambitious gardeners might want to skip a simple bucket and try something more challenging.

Growers will need to find a shady spot, protected from wind where the bucket can stay relatively humid. Indoors, buckets won’t dry from the wind. No matter the location, you’ll need to keep the pre-mushroom mush moist with spritzes of water around, not on, the open holes. “You’re not watering the mushrooms. It’s almost like you’re watering the bucket,” Skinner said.

There are other ways to keep the humidity up without constantly misting the bucket with a fine spray of water, Skinner said. She’s kept an essential oil diffuser (without oil) next to grow buckets. Other growers construct small tents over their mushrooms to keep humidity high and consistent.

With the correct combination of shade, humidity and temperature, you will soon start seeing “pins”—tiny, thin towers that will turn into a mushroom in about a week, Skinner said. “They grow really fast,” she said. “Once they start to fruit, they double in size every day.”

Mushroom buckets kept outside (especially in early spring) likely will take longer to fruit because of lower temperatures. Most popular fungi varieties prefer temperatures in the range of 60–80 degrees

feature The Oscars in Athens

CINÉ FUNDRAISER HIGHLIGHTS IMPACT OF FILM TAX CREDITS

By Xinge Lei news@flagpole.com

Georgia’s film industry has grown dramatically in recent years, thanks to the generous tax incentives enacted in 2008. In the fiscal year 2022, Georgia’s 20–30% film tax credit has generated $8.5 billion in economic impact and created nearly 60,000 jobs in the state, according to studies.

live performances, poetry readings and art exhibitions. Having been in operation for 17 years now, Ciné has become a cultural landmark of downtown Athens. Executive Director Pamela Kohn describes the cinema as a mindful provider of diverse, artistic and educational programming.

Mushroom plugs, available online, look like little dowels.

Infused with mycelium, the plugs hold the vegetative starter needed to cultivate the edible mushroom.

Growers take recently felled trees, usually hardwoods, then drill holes into a log, drop in the plugs and cap with wax. This is the typical process for creating mushroom logs.

But logs aren’t the only place to consider growing mushrooms, Skinner said. She mixes oyster mushroom inoculant into the straw covering the garden beds where she grows her tomato plants. I think this is a great system. The straw covers the tomato’s roots, cooling the soil and retaining moisture, while the shade from the tomato plant provides a place for the oyster mushrooms to grow.

Maybe you’re sold on growing the mushrooms, but how will you cook your fungal bounty? If you’re interested in just tasting the mushroom, Skinner suggests a simple saute. “I just saute them. A really good saute to cook the water out of them, and then add your herbs and spices as you like,” she said.

For fancier fare, Skinner sells a mushroom cookbook and sports several free recipes on her website, including an uptown-sounding, yet uncomplicated lion’s mane mushroom crab cake. “It is probably the No. 1 most popular recipe I have on my website,” she said.

In addition to the internet, the Marigold Market, the Athens Farmers Market, Daily Groceries Co-op and Prince Market are good places to find mushrooms and mushroom products. f

A new bill, however, could throw a wrench into this system. Last week, a Georgia House of Representatives Ways and Means subcommittee unanimously approved House Bill 1180, introducing new criteria that production companies must meet in order to qualify for the most lucrative tax credit. The bill would also place a $900 million cap on transferable tax credits and require companies to spend a minimum of $500,000 to apply for tax incentives. The original proposition was a threshold of $1 million, though it was revised to consider smaller film productions.

“I think film has been intrinsic to the long history of Athens… It’s a very creative community, and the medium of film has definitely been positive,” Kohn says.

“We have become seen as second only to Hollywood, in terms of film production in the U.S.,” says David Sutherland, a professor at UGA’s Terry College of Business. “A lot of lawmakers got worried that [tax credits] pose a risk to state finance. It makes it harder to cut general income taxes across the board.”

While the bill would not go into effect until 2026 upon passing, it has caused concern for filmmakers and production companies across Georgia. A petition has been circulating since HB 1180 moved forward calling for amendment. The petition argues that this unanticipated change will negatively impact productions, forcing them to seek film opportunities elsewhere. It also proposes that the state offer an additional 10% tax incentive to productions filming in rural areas to support smaller communities.

Athens itself is no stranger to film production, having made appearances in movies such as The Exorcist: Believer (2023), Ragged Heart (2022) and Athens native Jamie Ponsoldt’s The Spectacular Now (2012), among many others. The city offers urban and rural settings, classroom space from UGA and historic buildings, as well as a streamlined permitting process. With the addition of Athena Studios, officially launched in 2023, filmmakers can access 200,000 square feet of space purposely built for production. Efforts have also been made to train college students and youth for the film industry through programs like the Georgia Film Academy.

A big contributor to the Athens film community is Ciné, an independent arthouse cinema on Hancock Avenue. Ciné operates as a nonprofit under the stewardship of the Athens Film Arts Institute. Not only does the organization showcase local and student-made films, but it also hosts

Ciné is committed to educational outreach as well. Partnering with UGA’s Willson Center for Arts and Humanities, Kohn says Ciné has brought together visiting artists and professors from all over the world. As a part of its outreach program, the cinema regularly hosts documentary screenings and panel discussions for public schools in the Athens area.

To highlight recent legislative action and to fundraise for its 3.0 campaign, Ciné will be presenting an Oscars-style gala on Mar. 9 from 6–10 p.m. at 1055 Barber St. The 3.0 campaign consists of facility upgrades, including a third screen in Ciné’s meeting space and music venue known as “The Lab,” a digital projector and new sound systems. For this event, Ciné has invited speakers including state Rep. Spencer Frye (D-Athens), Athena Studios founder Joel Harbor, and composer and producer Elvin Ross to discuss the film tax incentives and the future of filmmaking in Athens.

With Epting Events as its presenting sponsor, the gala will feature live music, silent auctions, gift bags from local businesses, an Oscars predictions competition and awards for various categories. Ciné board director and owner of Agora Vintage Airee Edwards emphasized raising awareness of the cinema as it connects all kinds of local talent. Edwards said the event is a collaboration of film, music, fashion and art, welcoming to all creatives. Moreover, youth who are interested in the film industry are encouraged to attend for networking opportunities.

This gala counts as Ciné’s largest fundraiser to date, and staff members and supporters hope to continue the tradition in the years to come. f

Chanterelle mushrooms are beautiful and delicious, but difficult to grow.

ERIN FRANCE

Cine is hosting its first-ever Oscar gala to raise funds for a projector in its lab space and other improvements.

music

Indie Town

MUSIC INDUSTRY NETWORKING APP SIMPLIFIES BOOKING

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

Endlessly posting in Facebook music community and DIY groups or saying a silent prayer as you slide into yet another band’s Instagram DMs are trials most musicians have faced in the independent touring world. This frustrating experience is in part the inspiration behind the new Indie Town app, a social networking tool built specifically with the music industry in mind.

After a soft launch in November 2023, Indie Town is now fully functional and being used across the U.S. and 14 other countries. It essentially serves two user groups: musicians/bands and “artist community” members (DIY venues, promoters, zines, videographers and more). Current users represent a large majority of the more than 50 chooseable genres, ranging from crust punk to hip hop to dream pop and beyond, and a range of levels from fresh bands just starting out to those backed by labels like Saddle Creek Records and Slumberland Records. Indie Town’s community is a testament to just how difficult booking can be for anyone.

Indie Town co-founder Brandon Taj Hanick, an Athensbased songwriter, shares the experiences and perspectives of his user base after two decades of touring in the U.S. and Europe with bands like King of Prussia and Future Lives. The idea behind Indie Town is one that Hanick and his friends had been brainstorming for a long time, well before he developed the idea through the UGA Innovation District’s I-Corps program in 2021.

Town became Athens- and Seattle-based; however, Hanick notes how strong the support has been over the last few years from David Barbe and the UGA Music Business program along with the local music community.

The thoughtful and well-researched approach to developing Indie Town has led to a tool that’s never existed like this before. The result is a free, invite-only social networking platform with no algorithm— three points to improve accessibility while also maintaining the authenticity of the experience by cutting down on trolls and spammers. When members join, they will receive five invite codes, which will help the technology grow sustainably and add a layer of screening that those who join are interested in building a creative community.

When a band or artist joins Indie Town, their easy-toset-up profile will act as a mini-website with an integrated music player and video player that pulls playlists from Spotify, Bandcamp, SoundCloud, YouTube, etc. It avoids users having to upload music or videos to yet another site, and it evens the playing field for those who don’t have a website of their own. Each profile provides everything someone needs to know in one place, unlike other social media sites where actually listening to a band’s music or viewing their videos often requires linking off to other sites.

“My friends and I, in other bands and our own bands, always kind of ran into a similar problem: If you’re booking a show in a city where you’ve never been, a lot of times the venue will say, ‘OK, you’ve got a hold for this night, now find two locals.’ Where do you start? The whole process was kind of clunky. Then when you do [find the bands] you’ve got to listen to them and make sure that it would make sense to be on a bill together. And you’ve got to possibly contact them through another channel. We just wanted to streamline all of that,” says Hanick.

During the innovation program, Hanick interviewed different bands outside of his own circle and received objective feedback about their touring hurdles—primarily naming money, booking and community as the biggest challenges. Then Hanick began talking with his future Seattle-based partner Adam Franklin, a fellow UGA graduate who had spent a few years in the Athens music scene. Sprung from the COVID-era norm of collaboration across cities, Indie

Ultimately, better searchability was a primary goal in developing Indie Town. Users are able to search by location and genre, plus there’s a filter by location for “friends of friends” that may add a level of trust for some when reaching out to new people. Even though booking and touring is the primary focus, the app’s creative community extends beyond that by being a resource for musicians looking for photographers, videographers, media outlets, graphic designers and more. Expanding your network outside of your state, and even country, is great, but you may be surprised who you find within your own community on this app as well.

“As we grow, we’re going to make booking less time consuming so bands are able to spend more time creating and writing and recording and actually playing shows. So that’s the big goal with all of it is less time doing the stuff that we all hate, which is booking, and more time doing what we love, creating music and art,” says Hanick.

Anyone interested in joining Indie Town can request an invite code at invites@indietown.org. f

RIP Dexter Romweber PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

ALL WE HAVE TO DO IS DREAM: Dexter Romweber died Friday, Feb. 16, reportedly of natural causes. He was a man as inextricably identified with Athens as with his hometown of Carrboro, NC. His band, Flat Duo Jets, rose to more-than-local prominence by virtue of its inclusion in the 1986 film Athens, Ga: Inside/Out. Its explosive presence therein caused no little controversy at the time due to the band having been recent transplants to town at the time. Dexter was a lifelong devotee to his beloved rockabilly, as well as folk and roots rock, and a fiery performer. The Jets broke up at least once before reuniting to

single. It’s a fairly upbeat, breezy country-influenced tune named “Might As Well,” and what’s most impressive right off the bat is its stellar production qualities. Literally nothing about this says “local record.” It’s as pro as anything else you’re likely to hear out of Athens this year. It’s also hella enjoyable and a nice new benchmark for Blanton himself. Find this on Spotify and other services.

start a proper recording career circa 1990 and left an impressively large discography. His post-Jets career was a mix of solo escapades, brief collaborations and his Dexter Romweber Duo, in which he played with his sister, Sara Romweber (Snatches of Pink, Let’s Active). While thrillingly exciting, and excitable, Dexter also often cut a tragic figure and was preceded in death by Sara, his mother Sara, and two brothers, Joe and Luke. His influence is writ large across the culture through acts like the White Stripes and on celluloid via the 2006 documentary Two Headed Cow, which was directed by Inside/Out director Tony Gayton. His most recent release was last year’s full-length album Good Thing Going. In a 1985 interview with The Red & Black, a then-19-yearold Dexter remarked, “I just want to make music onstage and in the studio for the rest of my life.” He was 57 years old.

WAVE OF MUTILATION: Monsoon, still riding a wave of critical and popular acclaim for its 2022 album Ghost Party, is set to undertake a huge tour the week after this news is published. Beginning Mar. 8 in Nashville, the now-duo will play shows across the Midwest, Southwest and the West Coast before winding up in Atlanta on Apr. 13 at The Earl. Monsoon is a solid lesson in growing incrementally over the course of several years, honing one’s style sharper than a prison shank, and staying completely true to art for its own sake. Follow along at facebook.com/monsoonmusic, and listen in at monsoonband.bandcamp.com.

WATCH THE WORLD FROM YOUR WINDOW: Former lead singer for The Good Looks Mitchell Blanton has released his very first solo

THE PICTURE’S CHANGING, EVERY MOMENT: Willow Avalon may be the daughter of musician and songwriter Jim White, but she’s done an extraordinary job of carving her own identity. Newly signed to Atlantic Records, she’ll celebrate the release of her debut EP for the label, titled Stranger, on Thursday, Feb. 29 at The Georgia Theatre, where she’ll be opening for “American Idol” finalist and Atlantic Records labelmate Briston Maroney. Avalon plays a very smoothed-out version of classic Americana-ish pop music, sometimes decorated with her signature vocal trill, which can be a curious distraction at first but then becomes a nice defining aspect. For a wonderful introduction, please check out her debut single “Drivin” from 2021. This show sold out immediately, so you’re out of luck there, but the internet is always open, so find her music on major streaming services.

SEE FOR YOURSELF: It’s only been about a thousand years since we heard any news from singer-songwriter Scott Low. Well, he’s releasing his newest album, The Appalachian Blues, Friday, Mar. 1. Through these 11 songs, Low delivers a set of country blues and some other closely associated styles, with the highpoint very likely being “Worn Out Shoes.” Low will play the next night, Saturday, Mar. 2, at The Foundry opening for Athens jammy-boogie band Heart Of Pine, which will also have released its newest single, “Movin’ On,” the previous day. This particular track features guest background vocals by Betsy Franck and Ansley Stewart, and is one of three singles leading up to an LP release this July. For more information on each, please see heartofpineband.com and facebook.com/ ScottLowSongs.

TRY IT OUT: Norman Baldwin, one half of the duo Dooley & Baldwin, has released a full-length solo album named Jigsaw His collaborator on this is Bobby Cole, who wrote and produced the music while Baldwin handled lyrics and vocal melodies. Much like his work in Dooley & Baldwin, his signature earnestness and lyrical honesty are the hallmarks of this release. Most of this fits into a solidly traditional pop-rock tradition, but the standout track here is the achingly personal piano-based tune “Pain Has Made Me Whole.” This isn’t for everyone, but nothing ever is. Try it on for size over at soundcloud.com/user-524169716. f

TUESDAY,

THURSDAY,

flagpole is seeking a full time sales representative to start in April to handle advertising sales for the print and online editions, as well as The Guide to Athens and other special projects. Sales Rep

Dexter Romweber

MIKE WHITE · DEADLYDESIGNS.COM

EXPERIENCE AT MUSIC UGA

CONNECTION SERIES: FREE CONCERTS, NO TICKETS NEEDED

WED 2/28

4:30 p.m.

EDGE HALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Viola Studio presents BIPOC Composers

The UGA Viola Studio presents works by Leilehua Lanzilotti, Reena Ismail, Derrick Skye Scott Joplin, Will Marion Cook, Florence Price Quinn Mason, Jessie Montgomery...among others. Free performance.

arts & culture

calendar picks

MUSIC | THU, FEB. 29

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Hodgson Concert Hall • 7:30 p.m. • $30–60

WED 2/28

7:30 p.m.

RAMSEY HALL

THURS 2/29

7:30 p.m.

DANCZ CENTER SCHOOL OF MUSIC

FRI 3/1

7:30 p.m.

HODGSON HALL

Guitar Foundation of America’s Winner’s Tour: Lovro Peretić, guitar

Classical guitarist from Zagreb (Croatia). Last year, he won the International Concert Artist competition of the Guitar Foundation of America (USA). Free performance.

Guest Artist

Nick Zoulek, saxophone

Presenting original compositions for voice, saxophonist, electronics, and chamber ensemble. Free performance.

British Brass Band Spring “Two Lips” for Brass

This spring festival of the British Brass Band includes “Shenandoah” by Steven Verhelst, “Nobody Does It Better” by Marvin Hamlisch “Quicksilver” by Peter Graham and more!

TICKETED PERFORMANCES $15-20; $3 with UGA student ID

THURS 3/14

7:30 p.m.

HODGSON HALL

TUES 3/19

7:30 p.m.

RAMSEY HALL

THURS 3/21

FRI 3/22

7:30 p.m.

HODGSON HALL

MON 3/25

7:30 p.m.

HODGSON HALL

UGA Hodgson Singers “The Poet Sings”

The award-winning UGA Hodgson Singers, conducted by Daniel Bara, presents pieces based on the poetry of Shakespeare, Pablo Neruda, Robert Frost, and the Indian poet, Sarojini Naidu. Featuring UGA Voice Faculty Elizabeth Johnson Knight, mezzo-soprano. Part of UGA Humanities Festival.

Women’s Works for Viola: Past, Present, and Future - Maggie Snyder, viola

With Timothly Lovelace on piano. Includes three world premieres: And a Cry Came from the People for viola & piano by Mary Kouyoumdjian, Variations on a Feeling (Chaconne) for viola alone by Tessa Lark, and Sakori Dixon Vanderveer’s Bagatelles for Strings, I. Prelude.

UGA Opera Theatre presents “The Tragedy of Carmen”

Adapted from Georges Bizet’s opera by Marius Constant, Jean-Claude Carriére, and Peter Brook. This version draws on the original novella for dramatic inspiration to create a more intimate and emotionally raw exploration of these familiar characters.

ARCO Chamber Orchestra presents “Mostly Romantic”

The program includes the beloved Tchaikovsky’s “Souvenir de Florence” in orchestral version. In this context, romantic refers to both the Romantic period, and the depth of dramatic character.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo began over 60 years ago with Joseph Shabalala’s dream to create a South African choral group. Now his sons and their cousins carry on that legacy, having won multiple Grammy Awards for their singing in the traditional isicathamiya style, which was originally developed by miners in South Africa. Their performances carry the weight of their country’s history, calling back to the use of isicathamiya music to spread hope and love during the worst years of apartheid. Even Nelson Mandela listened to their music while in jail, later calling them “South Africa’s cultural ambassadors to the world” when he accepted his Nobel Peace Prize. In addition to the performance, there will be a free pre-performance talk in Ramsey Concert Hall at 6:45 p.m. [Mary Beth Bryan]

ART | FRI, MAR. 1

SamG Art Opening

Flicker Theatre & Bar • 8 p.m. (doors) • $10 Clarkesville artist Sam Granger, known as SamG, didn’t begin his art career until he was 37 years old when he took a “Find Your Perfect Job” quiz online that suggested he become an artist. He picked up a paintbrush right after, and since then he has traveled the art show circuit and created an entire world out of paint and found materials, including an installation of sorts in his own yard, lovingly referred to as SamG Land. His work is colorful and eccentric, full of characters and quirky messages that invite audiences into his unique and homey universe. SamG will be sharing the wall at Flicker with artist Neil Hayden, and the opening reception will feature performances from psych-folk band Dim Watts, Asheville basement rockers Minorcan and Athens post-punk group Current Rage. The show costs $10, but the artwork can be viewed for free anytime throughout March. [MB]

MUSIC | SAT, MAR. 2

Tinsley Ellis

album is fully composed of Ellis’ original compositions, and his performances of that material have earned him Vintage Guitar’s title as “One of modern blues’ greatest performers.” [MB]

MUSIC | SAT, MAR. 2

Stick Men

Live Wire • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $25–50

Stick Men is a supergroup formed in 2007 by Tony Levin, Pat Mastelotto and Markus Reuter. Levin is one of the most recorded bass players in history, having worked and toured with artists such as Peter Gabriel, John Lennon, Pink Floyd and Paul Simon, as well as serving as a permanent member of King Crimson and L’Image. Levin plays the Chapman Stick (for which the band is named), which is an instrument that has both bass and guitar strings. Mastelotto is a self-taught, genre-jumping drummer who has played with groups like Mr. Mister, The Rembrandts and, for the past 25 years, King Crimson. Reuter was originally trained as a pianist, but eventually designed and learned to play his trademark touch style guitar. He has released several solo recordings and is a member of Tuner, TRUCE and experimental band Centrozoon. This dynamic collaboration

has resulted in numerous live and studio albums and live shows well-suited to any prog-rock fan. [MB]

PERFORMANCE | SUN, MAR. 3

Swan Lake

The Classic Center • 6 p.m. • $35–80

Rialto Club • 8 p.m. • $20 (adv.), $25 Renowned Atlanta-based musician Tinsley Ellis is touring his first solo acoustic album, Naked Truth, which pays homage to the folk blues tradition of artists like Muddy Waters and Son House. Ellis has been making music since 1971, delivering ferocious electric guitar onstage with artists like Widespread Panic, the Allman Brothers and Stevie Ray Vaughn. He typically takes inspiration from the British Invasion bands of his youth, such as Cream and The Rolling Stones, but his newest work is an exploration of a different side of his skillset. The songs on Naked Truth sound like they come straight from the 1950s bayou, but the

Swan Lake is coming to Athens for one night only as part of the World Ballet Series’ ongoing tour of the U.S. The series was created to bring renewed productions of ballet classics to audiences around the country in order to keep accessibility for this art form alive. The production will feature a multinational ensemble of 50 dancers from the World Ballet Company, and will be steeped in artistic expression, from its hand-painted sets, handmade costumes by Sergey Novikov and makeup by Irina Strukova, to its storytelling and signature Tchaikovsky accompaniment. This version of Swan Lake will use Marius Petipa’s original choreography, with some adjustments by Nadezhda Kalinina. Discounted group rates are available. [MB] f

SamG

JESSICA SMITH

live music calendar

Wednesday 28

40 Watt Club

8 p.m. (doors), $10 (adv.), $12. www.40watt.com

SECOND NATURE Athens-based three-piece alternative rock band whose sound is self-described as “psychedelic beach rock.”

VIOLENT VIOLET Pop-punk outfit with members of Commüne and Bog Bod whose latest EP embarks on an ethereal analog odyssey.

SEVENTH SON New Athens-based indie band.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com

DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.

Hendershot’s New Faces Night. 8 p.m. FREE! www. hendershotsathens.com

RITIKA Trailblazing South Asian American folk artist.

NIGHTINGAIL Alternative folk singer-songwriter with expressive melodies.

LEIGHTON DAY Prolific Atlanta songwriter blurring the lines between musical genres.

Hugh Hodgson School of Music

Edge Hall. 4:30 p.m. FREE! music. uga.edu

UGA VIOLA STUDIO Works by BIPOC composers including Leilehua Lanzilotti, Reena Ismail, Derrick Skye, Scott Joplin and more.

Ramsey Hall

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

LOVRO PERETIĆ Classical guitarist from Zagreb, Croatia who is currently on a 50-concert tour through USA and Canada as the winner of the International Concert Artist competition of the Guitar Foundation of America.

Thursday 29

40 Watt Club

$10 (adv.), $15. www.40watt.com

ASHTXN Local hip-hop artist Ashton Hood.

WYATT PATTON Energetic UGA student whose genre spans from club anthems to introspective love songs.

WIX PATTON Former UGA football player performing lit party raps.

TYTYLERTY Musician, author and poet.

SAJAAD Rapper with a versatile style and positive energy that’s quick to engage his audience.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

CLOUDBELLY Indie folk band from Massachusetts whose music is intimate and cinematic.

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

CANNONANDTHEBOXES Cannon Rogers leads a rotating cast of musicians in mixing fuzz and folk with an upbeat energy.

Georgia Theatre

6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show).

SOLD OUT! www.georgiatheatre.

com

BRISTON MARONEY Smooth, catchy indie pop from Nashville. SNARLS Indie rock band from Columbus, OH.

WILLOW AVALON Georgia-born dream pop singer-songwriter. Hendershot’s

8 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com

BIG BAND ATHENS 18-member Athens band whose swinging tunes consist of cover music from the ’40s to the ’70s.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $30–60. pac.uga.edu

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

South African music group that sings in the traditional isicathamiya style, combining the complex rhythms and harmonies of Zulu music with gospel sentiments.

Hugh Hodgson School of Music

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

NICK ZOULEK Award-winning saxophonist and composer who is known for his avant-garde improvisation.

Southern Brewing Co.

6–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

KARAOKE NIGHT Every Thursday evening.

Spaceball Bazaar

7 p.m. www.instagram.com/spaceball. bazaar

HAYRIDE Long-running highenergy rock band with guitarist Kevin Sweeney, bassist Nick Bielli and drummer Mark Brill.

LARRY’S HOMEWORK Four-piece Americana/roots rock band from Athens started by Stephan Eutsler and Pat Pensyl.

Friday 1

40 Watt Club PISCES Party. 7 p.m. (doors). $10 (adv.), $15. www.40watt.com

LONA Athens all-star band that glides between rock and roll and honky-tonk sounds.

MATT SPINKS TRIO Band with a unique, homegrown sound that has been compared to John Mayer, Sublime and Tony Furtado.

ATHICA

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

JOHN KIRAN FERNANDES, LAURA CAMACHO & DAVY GIBBS TRIO Modal jazz and folk forms trio featuring clarinet, upright bass and drums.

SHANE PARISH Master guitarist and fearless explorer of rhythm and timbre.

Athentic Brewing Co. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

JACK MILLER AND JIM GREENE Strumming and singing some classics along with originals.

Dancz Center for New Music

6 P.M. FREE! music.uga.edu

STUDENT COMPOSERS ASSOCIATION A recital of world premieres by UGA student composers. Flicker Theatre & Bar SamG & Neil Hayden Art Opening. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

DIM WATTS Local psych-folk group led by Jim Willingham (Ham1, Old Smokey).

MINORCAN Self-described basement arena rock band from Asheville, NC.

CURRENT RAGE Catchy post-punk band originally active in Athens

from ’79–’83 that has been recently reformed.

Hendershot’s 7 p.m. (doors). $10. www.hendershotsathens.com

ANDREA DEMARCUS Vocalist, songwriter, classically trained upright bassist, Juilliard graduate and member of Cicada Rhythm.

ANNIE LEETH Local producer and violinist who loops drums, synths and strings into experimental pop tunes.

ADRIANA THOMAS Taking heavy inspiration from salsa, jazz and gospel, Thomas uses drums, a synthesizer, a guitar and a loop station to connect with listeners.

Hugh Hodgson Concert

Hall

Piedmont Athens Regional Performances for Young People. 10 a.m.

SOLD OUT! pac.uga.edu

LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO

South African music group that sings in the traditional isicathamiya style, combining the complex rhythms and harmonies of Zulu music with gospel sentiments.

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

BRITISH BRASS BAND This spring festival includes “Shenandoah” by Steven Verhelst, “Nobody Does It Better” by Marvin Hamlisch, “Quicksilver” by Peter Graham and more.

Hugh Hodgson School of Music

Edge Hall. 6 p.m. music.uga.edu

UNDERGRADUATE RECITAL

Tristan Dempsey and Kemp McArthur perform on cello.

Nowhere Bar

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

NowhereBarAthens

FIVE EIGHT Legendary Athens band known for its boisterous, thoughtful rock and roll.

Southern Brewing Co.

First Fridays. 5–10 p.m. (event), 6–9 p.m. (music). www.sobrewco.com

WADE NEWBURY Easy listening tunes and classics on guitar. First Fridays include a food truck and mini market of local vendors.

Spaceball Bazaar 7 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/spaceballbazaar

SMAXXON No info available.

ORIGINAL HAMSTERS Electronic duo paying tribute to old school hip hop.

G. BRONCO LITE No info available.

BÈRNTÉ No info available.

UGA New Dance Theatre

Classic City Swing 9 Friday Night Dance. 7–11 p.m. $15 (w/ UGA ID), $30. www.classiccityswing.com

MINT JULEP JAZZ BAND Little big band recreating the hot jazz sounds of the ’20s, ’30s and early ’40s through arrangements based on original recordings from the jazz age and swing era and original tunes inspired by that time period.

Saturday 2

Athentic Brewing Co.

12–6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

ALL ARE WELCOME SPRING

MARKET Sisters of the Moon presents over 50 vendors and performances by Julianne Merritt, Caroline Coleman, Lilith Jenovax, Parys, Full on Monet and Red Dakota.

Bishop Park

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

JIM COOK High-energy solo acoustic blues, rock and country. (8 a.m.)

BIG MAGIC Ukulele duo. (10 a.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar

This Is Not a Music Fest 2024. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flickertheatreand bar.com

PLASTIC DUCK ARMADA Original dance rock band fronted by singersongwriter Greg Do.

SMAXXON No info available.

LO WAVE No info available.

G. BRONCO’S BROKEN DREAM MACHINE No info available.

The Foundry

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.), $15. bit.ly/TheFoundry March2

HEART OF PINE Roots-rocking local group with a nostalgic “Southedelic” sound informed by classic rock, blues, country, jam, Americana and funk. Celebrating the release of a new single, “Movin’ On.”

SCOTT LOW & THE BLUE

BOUILLON Rustic folk singersongwriter and former Athenian now based in Clayton. Album release show for The Appalachian Blues! Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15–29.50. www.georgiatheatre.com

ABBEY ROAD LIVE! Beloved local tribute band who has the crowd rocking all night to their extensive Beatles cover sets. Beatlemania 60th anniversary show performing the entire Beatles 1962–1966 album!

Hendershot’s

Last of the First-Wave Grunge Boys: Dana Turns 40! 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

FINGERNAILS ARE PRETTY Alllady Foo Fighters tribute act. Live Wire

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). www. stickmenlivewire.eventbrite.com

STICK MEN Progressive rock supergroup featuring King Crimson members Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto and German artist Markus Reuter.

Oconee County Library

Oconee County Library Grand Opening. 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m. FREE! www. facebook.com/OconeeLibrary

REBECCA SUNSHINE BAND Kidfriendly music by Rebecca and her friends. (12 p.m.)

GLOW STICK DANCE PARTY Nightshade Family leads an allages dance party with glow sticks. (6:30 p.m.)

Rialto Club

8 p.m. $20 (adv.), $25. www.indigo athens.live

TINSLEY ELLIS Seasoned bluesrock singer and guitarist from Atlanta celebrates the recent release of his first-ever solo acoustic album, Naked Truth UGA New Dance Theatre

Classic City Swing 9 Saturday Dance. 8–11 p.m. $15 (w/ UGA ID), $30. www.classiccityswing.com

THE KEENAN McKENZIE

ORCHESTRA This 14-piece ensemble boasts an all-star lineup of swing jazz veterans from North Carolina, New York, New Orleans and Georgia.

Sunday 3

Athentic Brewing Co.

12–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

ALL ARE WELCOME SPRING

MARKET Sisters of the Moon presents over 50 vendors and performances by DJ Charlie Flower, DJ De La Luna, Ecstatic Dance Athens, Jesse Williams and Robots N Aliens.

Buvez

7 p.m. www.facebook.com/buvez athens

IMPROVEMENT MOVEMENT

Psychedelic pop band from Atlanta.

SUNSET HONOR UNIT Sentimental pop from Atlanta comprised of dueling songwriters Drew Kirby (Mothers, CDSM) and Jake Chisenhall (Delorean Gray).

FOUR EYES Folky, poppy tunes by songwriter Erin Lovett. Hendershot’s

7 p.m. $12. www.hendershotsathens. 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.

TONY HOLIDAY Harmonicist and singer carrying forward the rich traditions of Memphis’ soul and blues.

RODNEY SANDERS Local singersongwriter and acoustic guitarist with a soul-stirring voice.

Oak House Distillery

3:30–6 p.m. www.oakhousedistilery. com

KIP JONES Local songwriter playing all your favorite folk, rock, R&B and country covers and some of his own tunes.

Terrapin Beer Co.

5–7 p.m. FREE! www.terrapinbeer. com

JIM COOK High-energy solo acoustic blues, rock and country.

Monday 4

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

LIFE IN VACUUM Toronto-based aggressive punk band led by Ukrainian brothers Sasha and Ross Chornyy with Dylan Bravener on bass.

PORCELAIN Four-piece rock band from Austin, TX. HUNGER ANTHEM Local indie power-rock trio with an unabashed penchant for distortion drenched songs and a DIY punk rock ethos.

Tuesday 5

Ciné

8 p.m. FREE! www.athenscine.com

KARAOKE WITH THE KING Show off your pipes to the world. Every first, third and fifth Tuesday.

Cozy Bar

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). Donations encouraged.

HENRY LUTHER & THE BLACKOUTS South Carolina-based folk singer specializing in drinking songs, indie-folk impressionism and country-folk surrealism.

ORGANICALLY PROGRAMMED

Electronic space-themed act utilizing primitive drum machines and synthesizers to create disco-pop,

jazz and easy listening inspired compositions.

PRETTY COLORS Athens/Atlanta ambient psych rock.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

BUBBLEGUM OCTOPUS Musical project of Mark Morden that mixed synth-pop, punk, electronica and EDM.

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

BAD STRAPLES Local DJ who creates electronica-influenced sets. SAFETY FLUID New local screamo project.

Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

KENOSHA KID Instrumental adventure-jazz group centered around the rollicking compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Josh Allen, Seth Hendershot and various guests. Rabbit Hole Studios

8–10:30 p.m. www.rabbitholestudios.

org IMPROVS AND ORIGINS Musical experiments, originals and improvisations.

Wednesday 6

40 Watt Club Camp-In #10. 7 p.m. $25. www.40watt.com

CRACKER DUO David Lowery and Johnny Hickman perform to kick off the 10th annual Camp-In.

DAVID RYAN HARRIS Los Angeles singer-songwriter who has performed with artists including John Mayer, Dave Matthews and Santana. Creature Comforts Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. www.athensfarmersmarket.net

THE HUMDINGERS Acoustic interpretations of pop and soul. (6 p.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com

DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. Porterhouse Grill

6–8:30 p.m. www.porterhousegrill athens.com

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

Down the Line

3/07 Rick Fowler Acoustic Band (Athentic Brewing Co.)

3/08 Liverpool Legends (Morton Theatre)

3/08 Everyday Dogs (The Roadhouse)

3/09 JW Francis, Oceanic Sound Research, Doc Calico & John Kiran Fernandes Duo (Buvez)

3/09 The Sensational Sounds of Motown (Boutier Winery & Inn)

3/09 High., Joyer, Coma Therapy, Johnny Falloon (The World Famous)

3/10 Tom Carter, Parish / Potter, In A Kythe (Buvez)

3/12 Kenosha Kid (Hendershot’s) f

event calendar

Tuesday 27

CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person basic conversation and vocabulary. 12:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

GAMES: Lunch and Learn New Games (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and try out some new games. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Mahjong Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn to play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong. Tuesdays & Fridays, 1–4 p.m. $1. www.wintervillecenter.com

GAMES: Tuesday Night Shenanigans (Southern Brewing Co.) Play board games and arcade games on site, bring your own games or even your D&D group. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

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

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens

LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Join Dr. Penny Mills to discuss Robert Traver’s novel Anatomy of a Murder 5:30–6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

MEETINGS: Veterans Coffee Hour (Winterville Cultural Center) Sit down with a veteran and have coffee and conversation. Tuesdays, 9 a.m. FREE! www.wintervillecenter.com

PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling: Anything Goes (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “Anything Goes” about one-of-a-kind tales that don’t fit a theme. 7–9 p.m. $10. www. rabbitbox.org

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 28

ART: Curator Talk (Georgia Museum of Art) Asen Kirin, Parker Curator of Russian Art, will give a gallery talk about portraiture in the Martha Thompson Dinos Gallery. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

CLASSES: Salsa Dancing (Starland Lounge & Lanes) Join SALSAthens for Cuban salsa lessons that meet a variety of dance abilities, including beginners. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced), 7:30 p.m. (beginner/ intermediate). $10. SALSAthens Dancing@gmail.com

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

EVENTS: Wedding Wednesday

Open House (Live Wire) Drop in for a venue tour and meet with

wedding planners and vendors. 4–8 p.m. FREE! www.livewireathens. com

FILM: Club Ned Anime Society (ACC Library) Join club members to watch and discuss episodes of “Future Boy Conan,” “Samurai Champloo” and more. 6:30–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.animefandom.org

FILM: The 1619 Project (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) View episodes of the Hulu series “The 1619 Project,” and discuss issues it raises around the consequences of slavery and contributions of Black Americans. 6:45 p.m. FREE! www.uuathensga. org/1619uufa

FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of an Andras Rajnai showcase. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar. com

GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: LEGO & Builder’s Club (Bogart Library) Drop in to use LEGOs and other building materials. All ages. 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (Ciné) Best-selling Israeli author Noa Yedlin will discuss “Crafting Unconventional Narratives: A Journey in Literature (and Television).” 6 p.m. FREE! willson.uga.edu

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

THEATER: Come From Away (The Classic Center) The hit musical based on a true story about 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. 7:30 p.m. $25–87.25. www.classiccenter.com

Thursday 29

CLASSES: Classic City Squares Dance Lessons (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) Beginner square dance lessons for singles, couples and children. Ages 12 & up. Thursdays, 2–4 p.m. $5. www.facebook.com/groups/classic citysquares

COMEDY: Comedy in the Cellar (Onward Reserve) Athens Comedy presents headlining comedian Lanny Farmer featuring Danny Tran and special guests. Thursdays, 8:30–10:30 p.m. $7–12. www. facebook.com/athenscomedy

EVENTS: Leap into New Friendships Speed Dating (Athentic Brewing Co.) A fun evening with eight rounds of speed dating for those looking to meet and mingle with LQBTQ+ folks in the community. Ages 21 & up. 6:30 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.athens pride.org

FILM: Atomic Age Film Series (Georgia Museum of Art) Presented in conjunction with the exhibition “Kei Ito: Staring at the Face of the Sun,” watch the film screening of the 1954 Godzilla. 7 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Jon Head. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnyspizza. com

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Foundry) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens

KIDSTUFF: Teen Studio: Kei Ito (Georgia Museum of Art) View the exhibition “Staring at the Face of the Sun” and make your own work of art inspired by the show. Ages 13–18. Email to RSVP. 5:30–8 p.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (Sanford Hall) Author Shastri Akella will read from his work about a queer comingof-age story set in 1990s India, The Sea Elephants. 5 p.m. FREE! english.uga.edu

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

PERFORMANCE: Improv Athens (Georgia Museum of Art) The resident UGA improv group performs a show presented with the special exhibition “Richard Prince: Tell Me Everything.” 7 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Friday 1

ART: Curator Tour (UGA Special Collections Library) Explore Hargrett’s newest exhibit “Sunken Treasure: The Art & Science of Coral Reefs” with curator Dr. James Porter. First Fridays, 2 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu/hargrett

ART: Opening Reception (OCAF) The colorful textile exhibition “Explosive Encounters: Where Paint Meets Thread” showcases 20 quilts made by Laura Leiden. 5–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.ocaf.com

ART: Opening Reception (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Attaboy Tapes presents an art opening for works by SamG and Neil Hayden with live music to follow. 7 p.m. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

COMEDY: The Hothouse (work. shop) Enjoy a showcase of improvisational comedy featuring Jade Fernandez, Bradley Bazzle and Matt House. 8 p.m. $10. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: 8th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show (The Classic Center) Browse the wares of over two dozen independent dealers of all things geologic. Mar. 1–2, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mar. 3, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $8 (adults), FREE! (12 & under). www. classiccenter.com

EVENTS: First Fridays (Southern Brewing Co.) Kick off the weekend

with live music, an on-site food truck and a mini-market featuring local vendors. First Fridays, 5–10 p.m. FREE! www.sobrewco.com

EVENTS: One Night Stand: A Sexuality Powerpoint Party (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) A monthly edu-taiment event with micro talks by experts and enthusiasts about anything within the realm of sexuality. 5:30–7 p.m. $5–15 donation. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.com

$10 (ACC residents), $15 (non-residents). www.accgovga.myrec.com

Saturday 2

CLASSES: Learn Pickleball Workshop (Oconee County Library) Led by Best Level Basketball, learn to play pickleball. Ages 18 & up. Registration required. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

EVENTS: Classic City Swing 9 Friday Night Dance (UGA New Dance Theatre) The night will begin with a beginner swing dance lesson (7–8 p.m.), followed by a social dance with a live band (8–11 p.m.). $15 (w/ UGA ID), $30. www.classiccity swing.com

GAMES: Mahjong Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn to play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong. Tuesdays & Fridays, 1–4 p.m. $1. www.wintervillecenter.com

GAMES: Chess Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Join others for a weekly chess competition. Fridays, 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.winterville center.com

GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Online: Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a RPG game with others on Discord. New players welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

KIDSTUFF: Meet & Play (Bogart Library) Drop in for facilitated open play with age-appropriate toys. Best for ages 6 & under. Every Friday, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Fantastic Friday (Bishop Park) An instructor supervises while a parent/caregiver leads their little ones through obstacle courses. Ages 1–4 years. Register online. 10–11:30 a.m. $7.50 (ACC residents), $11.25 (non-ACC residents). www.accgovga.myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: Paint Night (Lay Park) Painters will be given an example of what to paint and their own canvas to create their work of art. Ages 5 & up. Registration required. 6–8 p.m.

GAMES: Learn to Play the Shadowrun RPG (Tyche’s Games) Face off against the mega-corporations in a dark future. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

Sunday 3

CLASSES: Athens YOGA Collective (Athentic Brewing Co.) Enjoy a yoga class on the patio. First and third Sundays, 12 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com

CLASSES: The Power of Pleasure (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) This workshop focuses on the pelvic floor, pleasure and sexual health in perimenopause and menopause. 12 p.m. $60. www.revolutiontherapy andyoga.com

COMEDY: Best of Athens Comedy (The Globe) Hosted by Lanny Farmer, featured comedians include Julianne Merrit, Colton Stokowski, Levi Crumley, Tim Pruitt, Ngozi, Nateball Ya’ll, Mark Taylor and Owen Hunt. 9–10:30 p.m. $7. www. athenscomedy.com

EVENTS: 8th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show (The Classic Center) Browse the wares of over two dozen independent dealers of all things geologic. Mar. 1–2, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mar. 3, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $8 (adults), FREE! (12 & under). www. classiccenter.com

EVENTS: All Are Welcome Spring Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Browse over 50 local vendors with live music entertainment throughout the day. Mar. 2–3, 12–6 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: 8th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show (The Classic Center) Browse the wares of over two dozen independent dealers of all things geologic. Mar. 1–2, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Mar. 3, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $8 (adults), FREE! (12 & under). www. classiccenter.com

EVENTS: Oconee Library Grand Opening (Oconee County Library) Check out the library’s new location with an opening ceremony, live music, magic show, folk dancing and more. 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

EVENTS: Seed Swap and Book Sale (No. 3 Railroad Street) Friends of the Oglethorpe Co. Library is sponsoring this seed swap and book sale with proceeds benefitting the library. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. fologlethorpe@gmail.com

EVENTS: All Are Welcome Spring Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Browse over 50 local vendors with live music entertainment throughout the day. Mar. 2–3, 12–6 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: Crafting Serenity, Nurturing Beauty (Lotus International) Bonsai artist Jim Doyle will share his bonsai technique and knowledge with a demonstration. 1:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ LotusInternationalInc

EVENTS: Saturday Salsa (Oak House Distillery) Enjoy a cozy night of dancing salsa, bachata and merengue. All ages. 6:30–10:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ OakHouseDistillery

FILM: The 1619 Project (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) View episodes of the Hulu series “The 1619 Project,” and discuss issues it raises around the consequences of slavery and contributions of Black Americans. 9 a.m. FREE! www.uuathensga.org/ 1619uufa

FILM: Movies by Moonlight (Morton Theatre) The ACC Leisure Services Department will host an indoor event with the film Dreamgirls. 3 p.m. (doors), 4 p.m. (screening). FREE! www.accgov.com

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Southern Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 4 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddog athens

PERFORMANCE: Swan Lake (The Classic Center) This detailed ballet production features handpainted sets and over 150 radiant costumes. 6 p.m. $35–80. www. classiccenter.com

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Monday 4

CLASSES: Cross Stitch Class (Oconee County Library) Learn basic cross stitch skills, and make your own mini keychain. Supplies provided. Registration required. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

GAMES: General Trivia with Erin (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Erin.

The 8th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show will be held at The Classic Center Mar. 1–3.

SAM LIPKIN

Mondays, 7–9 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

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

GAMES: Team Trivia (Southern Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Team Trivia. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

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

KIDSTUFF: Fine Motor Monday (Oconee County Library) Work one-on-one with your child using a selection of Montessori-inspired educational items. Pre-school age. Registration required. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (Athentic Brewing Co.) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.com

Tuesday 5

CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person basic conversation and vocabulary. 12:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

GAMES: Lunch and Learn New Games (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and try out some new games. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Mahjong Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn to play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong. Tuesdays & Fridays, 1–4 p.m. $1. www.wintervillecenter.com

GAMES: Tuesday Night Shenanigans (Southern Brewing Co.) Play board games and arcade games on site, bring your own games or even your D&D group. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

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

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens

KIDSTUFF: Crafternoon (Oconee County Library) Drop in for a craft or two. Supplies Provided. All ages. Tuesdays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Bogart Bookies (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson and discuss it with the group. 1–2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart

MEETINGS: Veterans Coffee Hour (Winterville Cultural Center) Sit down with a veteran and have coffee and conversation. Tuesdays, 9 a.m. FREE! www.wintervillecenter.com

MEETINGS: Knot Just For Knitters (Oconee County Library) Bring your own crafting project to work on while chatting with fellow crafters. Tuesdays, 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

MEETINGS: Silent Book Club (The Foundry) Settle in with some food and beverages, then enjoy an hour of quiet reading time. Registration

required. 6–8 p.m. FREE! linktr.ee/ silentbookclubathens

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@petanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 6

ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

CLASSES: Free Pilates Class (Oconee County Library) Certified instructor Francine May will lead a beginner class. Bring a mat and water. Ages 18 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

CLASSES: Salsa Dancing (Starland Lounge & Lanes) Join SALSAthens for Cuban salsa lessons that meet a variety of dance abilities, including beginners. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced), 7:30 p.m. (beginner/ intermediate). $10. SALSAthens Dancing@gmail.com

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

EVENTS: Explore The Creative Space (Oconee County Library) Demos for the new 3D printer, laser engraver, digital editing stations and Classic City Vibes recording studio will be available in addition to gaming experiences. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the murder mystery film Black Belly of the Tarantula. 7 p.m. FREE! www. flickertheatreandbar.com

GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: LEGO & Builder’s Club (Bogart Library) Drop in to use LEGOs and other building materials. All ages. 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Teen Prism Club (Oconee County Library) Hang out in the library to play games, do crafts and build friendships in an inclusive and welcoming space. Grades 6–12. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Word of Mouth (The Globe) Athens’ longest-running spoken word open mic, with this month’s featured reader being Kodac Harrison from Atlanta. 6 p.m. (sign-ups), 7 p.m. (poetry). FREE! www.facebook.com/athens wordofmouth

MEETINGS: Avid Writers’ Collective (Avid Bookshop) Members critique each others’ pre-submitted writing of all forms. First Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m. FREE! events@ avidbookshop.com

OUTDOORS: ‘Normal’ Run (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join the Athens Road Runners for a 1–3 mile run that starts and ends at Athentic Brewing. Every other Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com f

feature Camp-In With Cracker

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE BAND’S FAN FESTIVAL

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

Almost two decades ago, Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven—singer-songwriter, guitarist and UGA music business instructor David Lowery’s influential rock bands—hosted their first Camp-Out outdoor festival at Pappy & Harriet’s in the California desert. Then the groups decided to pivot nearly 10 years later—with the help of Velena Vego, Cracker’s manager and the 40 Watt Club’s talent buyer—by creating an East Coast version held indoors and scaled down to create a more intimate fan experience.

Now Crumbs, the nickname Cracker’s dedicated fanbase has given themselves, travel from around the world to indulge in a fan-centered weekend every year and celebrate musicians within the Cracker universe. As a result, the Camp-In brings both fans and musicians to Athens that may not have traveled to the city otherwise, and it’s become the perfect opportunity to show off the local community.

“For the last three years it’s been during UGA’s spring break, but that’s been really good for us,” explains Vego. “It’s a more townie-oriented experience. And connecting Athens people that live here year round to people in other areas… It really isn’t about making a ton of money for Cracker. It’s a really fun fan festival where we hang out; it’s a community thing.”

Outside of drawing travelers who book hotel rooms, eat at restaurants and shop around downtown, the Camp-In prioritizes showing appreciation for locals, too. There is a “townie special” discounted ticket rate, and nurses get in for free. Cracker bass player Bryan Howard’s wife is a nurse, says Vego, and the band appreciates their service to the community. The reception from fans has been nothing short of love and admiration for Athens.

Each year features different special guests, and Vego, who books the festival, says the most exciting part is to invite musicians who have never played at the 40 Watt or even in Athens before. Some guests may be familiar to the audience, but often there are fresh acts thoughtfully chosen because they are guaranteed to be a hit with the Cracker fanbase. Lowery explains that most of the special guests come solo, playing either by themselves or with Cracker’s backing band, so the experience at Camp-In provides a chance to see these artists in a unique setting.

Because the audience now skews as a predominantly older crowd, the shows are held earlier in the evening with an effort to not end too late. Some events even occur during the day time. “I know that’s an odd thing, but that makes a huge difference to a lot of people whether they’re going to stay for a set,” says Lowery. And each evening is crafted in a way that will make you not want to miss out.

David Lowery

“So in a way, for me, since I’ve lived here for so many years, it’s like it brings a freshness to my eyes. It makes me excited and proud that I live here,” says Vego.

While Lowery frequently traveled and moved around the country throughout his career, he maintained a connection to Athens since the mid-’90s. California-based Camper Van Beethoven had a solid fanbase in the Southeast and in Atlanta specifically. After forming Cracker with Johnny Hickman in Richmond, VA in 1990, the band eventually progressively relocated to Athens between 2008–2013.

“I guess the little part of the story here that is kind of untold is that Cracker is really just two people. It’s me and Johnny Hickman… We’ve always set it up as a rotating cast of characters,” says Lowery. “We’ve moved around, and I think this is because his father and my father were in the Air Force, and we grew up all over the world. We’re just sort of comfortable moving around.”

Even so, he says that Athens became a natural fit, both for the band’s homebase and what he jokingly refers to as “Comic-Con for Cracker.” In that spirit, Camp-In is a labor of love and fan service with two main goals: building community among the fans and introducing fans to new music and artists. Cracker and its members keep the annual festival and each day of performances fresh by hosting different meet-and-greet opportunities, putting on different kinds of shows and rotating setlists out.

After 10 years of performing at the Camp-In, Lowery shares that his favorite part is the moments where he gets to be one of the fans hanging out.

“I love the music part and the creative part, but sometimes I approach it almost like an endurance contest,” says Lowery. “So I try to watch every single artist’s show, and sometimes that includes me, like, running from Hendershot’s to Flicker.”

This year’s four-day fan festival experience kicks off on Wednesday, Mar. 6 at the 40 Watt with performances by the Cracker duo and David Ryan Harris of former Atlantabased rock band Follow for Now, among other groups. On Thursday a song swap will take place at the club featuring Lowery, Hickman and Ike Reilly. Friday provides a double opportunity for fans at the 40 Watt with a late afternoon Lowery pizza party, when the artist will perform a solo show playing new songs, followed by a night-time show featuring Cracker as a full band, San Francisco indie rocker Megan Slankard and Free Mountain, Howard’s side project. On Saturday, Mar. 9 there will be a meet and greet at Hendershot’s with a solo performance by Hickman before the weekend wraps up with a final 40 Watt performance that night featuring Cracker, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Aaron Lee Tasjan and Chicago-based violinist Anne Harris. f

For more info and to purchase tickets, visit 40watt.com.

MIKE

bulletin board

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

Art

AAAC QUARTERLY GRANT (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council offers $500 grants to visual and performing artists in any medium to support specific projects that enrich the culture of Athens. Rolling deadlines are Mar. 15, June 15, Sept. 15 and Dec. 15. Apply online. www. athensarts.org/support

ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY

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

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Spaceball

Bazaar) Seeking artists to submit works for an upcoming exhibition, “In Like a Lion.” Submit up to three pictures and a brief artist statement or bio. Deadline Mar. 7. Opening reception Mar. 9. $10 entry fee. spaceball.bazaar@gmail.com, www.instagram.com/spaceball. bazaar

EMERGING BLACK ARTIST

SCHOLARSHIP (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council will award a $500 scholarship annually to one Black artist from a Clarke County high school who is attending, or has been accepted to, a college or university to study the arts. Deadline June 30. www.athensarts.org/ support

JOKERJOKERTV CALL FOR ART-

ISTS (Online) JOKERJOKERtv is actively accepting proposals for collaboration from visual, musical

and video artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit music videos, short films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www. jokerjokertv.com/submit

OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, jewelry, fiber and woodworking. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $65/month. www. accgov.com/7350/Open-StudioMembership

PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS

(Athens GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. Panels review, evaluate and select from submitted proposals for ACC-funded public art commissions. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels

SEEKING ACAC MEMBERS (Athens, GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking three candidates to fill three-year volunteer positions. The mission of the ACAC is to foster the development and enjoyment of performing, visual, cultural and other arts in the Athens-Clarke County community and to make recommendations to the Mayor and Commission in many areas of ACC planning and development. The ACAC meets the second Monday of every month at 6 p.m. Application deadline Mar. 17, 11:59 p.m. Tatiana.veneruso@accgoc. com, www.accgov.com/aac

STUDENT ART COMPETITION

(State Botanical Garden of Georgia)

art around town

ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1500) Jason Thrasher’s exhibition of photographs, “Kashi Washi,” documents his return to a specific street corner in Benares, India 25 years after his first visit in 1998. Through May by appointment.

ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) Brooklyn-based artist Fabienne Lasserre presents “Listeners,” an immersive and responsive installation consisting of a series of sculptures made of clear vinyl spray-painted with translucent gradients of color. Through Mar. 16.

ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) The “2024 Members’ Showcase” features all types of media, including sculpture, photography, painting and more. Artist Roundtable and Closing Reception Mar. 17, 4 p.m.

ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) A solo exhibition by Christina Habibi. On view Mar. 1–Apr. 25.

CLASSIC CENTER (300 N. Thomas St.) In Classic Gallery I, “Wild Thing” features animals, plants and people intermingling through the works of Margo Rosenbaum, Shelby Little, Carolyn Suzanne Schew and Amanda Burk.

• In Classic Gallery II, “LOVE.CRAFT Athens” features works by Melanie Jackson, Hannah Jo, Norman Austin Junior and Brittany Wortham.

DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) “Trust Fall: 2024 Faculty Exhibition” features the work of Lamar Dodd School of Art faculty working in painting and drawing, textile design, photography, video, printmaking and book arts, interior design, scientific illustration and graphic design. Through Mar. 20.

• “Star Dancers” is a mixed media wall-bound creation by Jaime Bull.

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Sam Granger, selftaught artist behind the World Famous SamG Land roadside attraction in Clarkesville, presents bright, often funny paintings. • Artwork by Neil Hayden. Opening Reception Mar. 1, 8 p.m. Through March.

FOYER (135 Park Ave.) New York City-based multidisciplinary artist Amelia Briggs shares a collection of oil paintings on paper that imagine interior landscapes. On view by appointment through Mar. 16.

GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “Nancy Baker Cahill: Through

Selected original artwork will be used for items in the garden’s gift shop, such as note cards, T-shirts, scarves and mugs. Students attending ninth grade and above in Georgia (including college students) are eligible. Cash prizes awarded. Deadline Mar. 31. botgarden.uga. edu

Auditions

THE CEMETERY CLUB (Elberton Arts Center) Seeking ages 40–70. Be prepared to read excerpts from the script. Auditions held Mar. 4–5, 6–8 p.m. Performances held May 10–12, 17–19 at the Elbert Theatre. 706-213-3109, tking@cityofelberton.net

Classes

ACCA CLASSES (Athens Community Council on Aging Center for Active Learning) “Qigong for Vitality with Anna DiBella” includes gentle movements to help improve balance, coordination and the mind-body connection. Mondays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. $20–25/five week series. “Feel Better Yoga with Elizabeth Alder, CYT” is a slowgoing yoga class for all abilities.

Tuesdays, 2:30–3:30 p.m. $20–25/ five week series. abarefoot@ accaging.org

ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop) The shop offers a range of fine art classes and workshops for adults, private classes and parties, summer camps, and art clubs for youth.

“Explosive Encounters: Where Paint Meets Thread” features over 20 art quilts by Laura Leiden. An opening reception will be held at the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation on Mar. 1 from 5:30–7:30 p.m.

Topics include acrylic, aqua oil, bookmaking, calligraphy, gouache, printmaking, and watercolor. Register online. www.kaartist.com

ART CLASSES (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) “Intuitive Painting,” Mar. 9. “Collage & Principles of Design,” Mar. 23. “Middle Schoolers: A Day of Fun Art Activities, Pizza & Making New Friends,” Mar. 30. All programs held 10 a.m.–4 p.m. edriscoll60@gmail.com

BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of classes include “Two-Day Railroad Spike Knife and Tomahawk” (Mar. 15–16), “Basic Tong Making” (Mar. 30), “Forge a Firepoker with Decorative Handle” (Apr. 6, May 11 or June 14), “Forge Grilling Tools” (Apr. 13 or June 1), “Forge a Three Hook Rack” (Apr. 26 or May 25), “Forge Garden Tools” (Apr. 27 or June 8), “Forge a Railroad Spike Knife” (May 3 or May 24), “Forge a Tomahawk” (May 4), “Forge a Spear” (May 31) and “Forge a Bottle Opener” (June 7).

Lines” is a mid-career survey demonstrating the artist’s progression from drawing into digital works of art in augmented reality. Through May 19. • “Richard Prince: Tell Me Everything” includes a suite of works based on the joke archives of comedian Milton Berle. Through June 16. • “Decade of Tradition: Highlights from the Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson Collection.” Through July 3, 2024. • “Kei Ito: Staring at the Face of the Sun” uses photography to examine the intergenerational trauma of nuclear disaster and the possibilities of healing and reconciliation. Through July 14.

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

HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) Nirvinyl Album Art presents “Nirvinyl For Sale” featuring vintage album cover art. Through mid-April.

JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Susan Pelham’s collages are inspired by Magic Realism, Surrealism, nursery rhymes, fables and more. Through March.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) “Memory Worker: Kelly Taylor Mitchell” explores ancestral seeking through hand-sewn stitches and handmade paper. Through Mar. 12. • “Tell Me A Story: Jasmine Best” presents narrative works combining fabric, yarn and digital sewing to reflect on memories and Black female identity. Through Mar. 12. • “Soft Trap” is a site-specific installation by Katie Ford created for “In Case,” a new annual series that utilizes the lobby case as an installation space. Through Mar. 28. • Collections from our Community presents Ikla McConnell’s collection of Pyrex casseroles and dishware. Through Apr. 9.

MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 S. Main St., Madison)

“John Lewis Series: Painting by Benny Andrews” features 17 paintings by Andrews depicting the life of late U.S. Congressman John Lewis and the Civil Rights Movement. • In celebration of National Women’s History Month, the gallery shares 13 photographs by Frances Benjamin Johnston (1864–1952) taken in Madison in 1939 of seven antebellum homes and one church as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South. Opening Reception Mar. 1, 5:30 p.m. Through May.

OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville)

“Youth Art Month 2024” features artwork by students in kindergarten through 12th grade attending Oconee County schools. Opening Reception

Classes run 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. greenhowhandmade.com/blacksmith-classes

CLASSES (Winterville Cultural Center) “Chair Yoga” promotes deep breathing, mindfulness and inward listening. Mondays, 9:10–10:10 a.m. $12/drop in. “Botanical Sketchbook” explores drawing techniques like shading, perspective and light. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. $12/drop in. wintervillecampus@gmail.com, www.wintervillecenter.com

CLASSIC CITY SWING 9 (Multiple Locations) Athens Swing Central and the UGA Swing Dance Club host a weekend of workshops and dances with live music. Check website for schedule of activities. Mar. 1–3. www.classiccityswing.com

NIA TECHNIQUE CLASSES (RxGym)

Nia combines dance, martial arts and mindfulness with uplifting music to create a holistic fitness experience. Mondays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. $15–20/class. athenspt.com/rx-gym/athens

PÉTANQUE CLUB OF ATHENS (5 Alumni Dr.) Learn to play Pétanque. RSVP for a free Wednesday introduction. athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanqueclub.wixsite.com/play

QPR SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING (Nuçi’s Space) Nuçi’s hosts free monthly QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention sessions for anyone interested, not just mental health professionals. Nuçi’s also offers free training for businesses and organizations. A public trainings will be held Mar. 28 at 9:30 a.m. qpr@nuci.org, www.nuci.org/qpr

SPANISH CLASSES (Multiple Locations) Casa de Amistad offers beginning and intermediate GED and ESL classes in-person and online. An eight-week course to learn Spanish meets Mondays and Wednesdays, 12:30–1:30 p.m. $60. www.athensamistad.com

TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS CLASSES (Live Oak Martial Arts) Traditional and modern-style Tae-

Mar. 1, 4–6 p.m. • “Explosive Encounters: Where Paint Meets Thread” features over 20 art quilts by Laura Leiden. Opening Reception Mar. 1, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Through Apr. 6.

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

“Peace in Our Time: Steffen Thomas Meisterwerke from the Lowrance Collection” shares works collected by Marjorie and Richard Lowrance over the span of 60 years. Through July 23.

UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.) The new gallery debuts with large-scale paintings from Margaret Morrison’s “Paradigm Shift,” a series created after Morrison began questioning historical aspects of her closely held Mormon faith. Through July 26.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Paving the Road to Progress: Georgia Interstate Highways” traverses the rocky path of the interstate system’s development through maps, reports, correspondence and legislation. Through Apr. 24. • “HBO at 50: The Rise of Prestige Television” highlights some of the groundbreaking programming created by and aired on HBO with items selected from the Peabody Awards Archive. Through May 2024. • “Legacy: Vince Dooley, 1932-2022” celebrates the life and career of the late UGA football head coach and athletic director through photographs and artifacts. Tours held before home games on Fridays at 3 p.m. Through spring 2024. • Developed by James W. Porter, Meigs Professor of Ecology emeritus at UGA, “Sunken Treasure: The Art and Science of Coral Reefs” explores the marine lives of coral through specimens and photographs. Family Day Apr. 13, 1 p.m. Through July 3.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS CLEMENTS

GALLERY (780 Timothy Rd.) Paul Hartman presents “A Lightmonkey Show,” a collection of photographs. Through March.

THE VALTON GALLERY AT STATE (625 Barber St., Suite 120) Self-taught painter Valton Murray shares works dominated by abstract botanicals, bright colors and surreal landscapes.

WINTERVILLE CULTURAL CENTER (371 N. Church St., Winterville) Students attending Winterville Elementary School share their creations. Through Mar. 22.

WINTERVILLE LIBRARY (115 Marigold Ln., Winterville) Paintings by Melanie Sgrignoli. Through February.

kwondo, self-defense, grappling and weapons classes are offered for all ages. Classes in Jodo, the art of the Japanese staff and sword, are held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 p.m. Visit the website for a full schedule. liveoakmartialarts@gmail.com, www. liveoakmartialarts.com

Help Out

ADOPT AN ANIMAL (Bear Hollow Zoo) Different sponsorship levels are available to “adopt” a zoo resident. Donations are used for exhibits, food and wildlife education. 706-613-3580

BLING YOUR PROM (ACC Library)

Seeking donations of formalwear that will be given to local teens for prom. Items can include men and women’s formalwear, jewelry and accessories, shoes, unused cosmetics and hair products, service/ store coupons and paper shopping bags. Donations accepted until Feb. 29. ehood@athenslibrary.org

TRAIL GUIDES NEEDED (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Seeking volunteers to lead hikes for school children while they attend a field trip. Must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. Orientation held Mar. 6, 9:30–11:30 a.m. naturecenter@accgov. com, accgov.givepulse.com/ event/379177

Kidstuff

ATHENS FOREST KINDERGARTEN

(Sandy Creek Park) Now enrolling children ages 3–6. AFK is a cooperative preschool that aims to develop initiative, persistence, interdependence, and empathy. www.athensforestkindergarten.org

CCCF SCHOLARSHIPS (Athens, GA)

The Classic Center Cultural Foundation is now accepting applications for performing arts and visual arts scholarships. Applications are open to 9th–12th grade high school students living in Northeast Georgia. Deadline Mar. 1. www. classiccenter.com/scholarships

GROUPS AT REBLOSSOM

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

LIBRARY STORYTIMES (ACC

Library) Storytime for preschool aged children and their caregivers is offered every Tuesday and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. www.athenslibrary.org

SUMMER ART CAMPS (K.A. Artist

Shop) Art Camps for Promising

Young Artists are offered for half or full days Mondays–Fridays during the summer. Activities range from drawing, painting, collage, printmaking, illustration, calligraphy and character design. www.kaartist.com

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

(Athens, GA) ACC Leisure Services Department offers camps highlighting art, nature education, sports and theater. Registration begins Mar. 16 at 9 a.m. for ACC residents and Mar. 18 at 12 p.m. for non-residents. www.accgov.com/myrec

TREEHOUSE SUMMER CAMPS

(Treehouse Kid & Craft) Camps are offered in a variety of themes including “Camp Swiftie,” digital art illustration and animation, “Mouse Palace,” “Craft Inc. Business,” fairy tales, “Crafty Carnival,” “Mini Museum” and more. Visit the web-

site for details and to register. www. treehousekidandcraft.com

Support Groups

ATHENS COUNCIL OF THE BLIND

(Athens, GA) Open to people of all ages with vision impairments, their families and friends. Topics include adaptive equipment, recreational and social opportunities, and advocacy. 706-424-2794, dlwahlers@ gmail.com

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

NEW PARENTS AND INFANT

FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP (BYL Family Resource Center) Come as you are for community, snacks and feeding advice from professionals. Babies and children of all ages are welcome. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.byyourleave.org

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (24th Street Clubhouse) Learn to stop eating compulsively or curb other unwanted food-related behaviors. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. Text: 678-7363697

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

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

RECREATE JOY (Sunny Days Therapeutics) Nuçi’s Space hosts a recreational therapy support group. Improve coping skills and self esteem while reducing depression and anxiety through adaptive yoga, games and leisure education. Sixweek sessions. Wednesdays, 5–6 p.m. tinyurl.com/rnvuhesa

RECOVERY DHARMA (Athens Addiction Recovery Center) This peer-led support group offers a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from any addiction. Visit the website for details. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.athensrecoverydharma.org

SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS (Athens, GA) Athens Downtown SAA offers a message of hope to anyone who suffers from a compulsive sexual behavior. Contact for location. athensdowntownsaa@gmail.com

SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE (Nuçi’s Space) SOS is a support group for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide. Meets the third Wednesday of every month, 5:30–7:30 p.m. www.nuci.org

Word on the Street

ADVANCE VOTING (Athens, GA)

Advance voting for the Mar. 12 Presidential Preference Primary is currently underway through Mar. 8 at 5 p.m. Check the website for a complete list of advance voting dates, times and locations. www. accgov.com/advancevoting

BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations are located across Athens with tools, an air pump and a QR code for quick guides on basic bike repairs. Visit the website for participating locations. www.accgov. com/10584/Bike-Repair-Stations

DIAMOND HILL FARM CSA (Athentic Brewing Co.) The Community Supported Agriculture program offers a variety of seasonal vegetables, fruits and/or flowers directly to consumers each week. Check website for weekly pickup locations, home delivery details and to register. $15 (flower share), $25–35 (farm box). www.diamondhillfarmathens.com

GREEN LIFE AWARDS NOMINA-

TIONS (Athens, GA) Now accepting nominations for the Green Life Awards, which honor organizations and individuals dedicated to sustainable practices. Nominations due Mar. 1. Awards ceremony held at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia on Apr. 24. www.accgov. com/greenlife

MACORTS 2050 PLAN (Athens, GA)

The Madison Athens-Clarke Oconee Regional Transportation Study is currently developing a Metropolitan Transportation Plan. Take an online survey to share your experience about walking, biking, driving and riding around. Deadline Mar. 31. www.macorts.org

PUBLIC COMMENT ON POLICE

COMMUNICATIONS (Athens, GA)

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) is currently receiving comments regarding the Police Department’s Central Communications Division, which is responsible for 9-1-1. Deadline Apr. 3. cimrs2. calea.org/338

RABBIT BOX THEMES (Athens, GA)

Seeking storytellers to share true short stories on stage. Upcoming themes include “Better Late Than Never” on Mar. 26, “The Story of Your Name” on Apr. 23 and “With This Ring” on May 28. Visit website to apply. www.rabbitbox.org/tell

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

SEVENTH GENERATION (Multiple Locations) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts gatherings on Sundays at 11 a.m. at Rabbit Hole Studios. Men’s Group meets Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at Healing Path Farm. www.seventhgenerationnativeamericanchurch.org

SIDEWALK POETRY CONTEST (Watkinsville, GA) The City of Watkinsville, Downtown Watkinsville and Oconee Library are teaming up for a sidewalk poetry contest. Winning poems will be chalked onto the downtown sidewalk in April. Enter one to three poems no longer than 250 characters including spaces. Include your name, age and contact info. Deadline Mar. 25. jmitchell@athenslibrary.org

SPRING ACTIVITIES (Athens, GA)

ACC Leisure Services will offer a variety of arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events this spring for all ages. Now registering. www.accgov.com/ myrec

VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA)

Brad Staples (of the Athens GA Live Music crew) is seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC or DVDs to digitize and archive on his YouTube channel, vhsordie (@vhsordie3030). Original recordings will be returned, and credits and dates will be included in the online video description. Digitization services are free. Contact for details and to coordinate shipping. bradley.staples88@gmail.com f

hey, bonita…

Complicated Mixed Signals

ADVICE FOR ATHENS’ LOOSE AND LOVELORN

By Bonita Applebum advice@flagpole.com

Hey Bonita,

I’m a not-out bisexual man who is getting mixed signals from my stylist. He’s very flirty and sweet and handsome, but I have a strong suspicion that’s just his vibe with whoever is in his chair. He’s married to a woman, and my instincts say, “Don’t ruin a good friendship.” But God, it’s tempting. I’m worried even broaching the topic will set a weird vibe. What do you think? Share my feelings or just enjoy the haircuts?

AC/DC

Hey there AC/DC,

If you know he’s married, and you don’t want to ruin a good friendship, then I’d say your decision is already made. Leave that fine man alone!

I’m an advocate of honest communication and enthusiastic consent, and if he’s not making overt gestures at you, then I don’t think you can interpret his friendliness as shy flirting. Also never forget that a stylist works in a form of service industry, where friendliness and ingratiating the customer can have a tangible effect on how much money one makes. I bet he’s that nice to everyone because he

but stylists know how to keep secrets, and I think it would be safe to broach the subject next time you are chatting about relationships during your session. You can talk about your dating woes and somehow, someway, mention that you’re curious about men as well. Maybe you can talk about another man you found attractive in the past and how you’re dealing with learning this about your personal attractions. He might be not-available but still willing to connect you with a discreet friend of his, and if he’s queer himself, he may share his own experiences with navigating that space.

I have a strong sense that he won’t flirt back with you because he probably knows how messy it can get when you fool around with someone who is a customer and knows where you work. I’ve seen jilted lovers and exes be absolutely inappropriate with service industry workers and exploit their requirement to serve customers as a guaranteed way to get to talk to them. Most workers in all areas of the service industry (stylists, bartenders, servers, you name ’em) try to avoid these kinds of interactions with customers, even though they have

likes tips and has a family to sup port with them, full stop. Most service industry personnel—and women, in particular—have a story of a customer who misinterpreted their service style as sincere interest, sometimes verging into stalk horror stories. I’m absolutely not saying that’s what you’re doing or going to do, but you should not delude yourself about the true nature of your relationship with your stylist. You’re a customer, and it’s highly likely that that’s all you’ll ever be to him.

Yeah, there’s a chance that he’s DL and overcompensating by being a Wife Guy. Maybe he does want you to fold him like a lawn chair, or perhaps he wants to do the folding. Maybe they’re the dream: a poly queer couple! But I strongly recommend against flirting overtly with your stylist to find this info out. I know you’re not out,

earn enough

this and didn’t make work uncomfortable for people just trying to earn a living. Again, I do not believe that’s what you’re doing at all, but your crush absolutely has the potential to go in a nothealthy direction if you just forged ahead and forgot the true nature of your dynamic with your stylist.

Also, you can have an anonymous account on Grindr or Scruff. Protect your privacy as a closeted individual and get your back blown out at the same time. Crushes do subside, and I think that your time will be better spent by pursuing people who want you back. f

Need advice? Email advice@flagpole.com, or use our anonymous online form at flagpole.com/getadvice.

REAL ESTATE HOUSES FOR RENT

3bd/1ba, 1600 sqft, new HVAC, paint, large private yard, $1050/mo, in Crawford, GA. 15 minutes east of Athens. 706-247-1259

House, 3BR/2BA in Normaltown. Central heat/air. Apartment, 2BR/1BA. Furnished. Washer/dryer. Wi-Fi. No smokers, pets. Calls only! 706-372-1505

TINY LIVING (in the country), 2 campers to rent daily, weekly, monthly. Furnished, secure, private. Fire pit, grill, deck. Small farm, Athens 30 minutes. Text 706-401-0880.

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Weekly delivery straight from the source. Makes a great gift! Only $55 for six months or $110 for one year. Purchase online at www.flagpole.bigcartel. com, call 706-549-0301 or email frontdesk@flagpole. com.

Flagpole ♥s our advertisers!

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Athens School of Music. Now offering in-person and online instruction in guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, banjo, mandolin and more. From beginner to expert, all styles. Visit www.athens schoolofmusic.com. 706543-5800

MUSIC SERVICES

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

MUSICIANS WANTED

Prog/New Wave band searching for a keyboard/ synth player. Music written that Can (!!!) be expanded on. Serious inquiries only. Contact text: 706-255-7374.

Find local musicians by placing an ad in the Flagpole Classifieds! Call 706549-0301 to place your ad.

SERVICES CLEANING

Peachy Green Clean Cooperative, your local friendly green cleaners! Free estimates. Call or go online today: 706-248-4601, www. peachygreencleancoop. com.

JOBS FULL-TIME

El Paso Tacos & Tequila

Now Hiring for Hosts, Servers and Bartenders. We offer flexible hours and scheduling for students. No experience is required as training is provided! Stop by in person to fill out an application! 255 W. Washington St.

OPPORTUNITIES

Pain and Wonder Tattoo is looking for tattoo artists who are wanting to guest spot or considering a residency. Visit www.painandwonder. com or email painandwonder@gmail.com.

Flagpole ♥s our donors!

DIY