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Returning to Athens from his award-winning clown tour of “Fruit Salad,” Chase Brantley will perform his physical comedy show “Don Toberman: PingPong Champ” on Saturday, Apr. 20 at work.shop. For more info and happenings around town, see the Event Calendar on p. 10.

Pimpin’ Ain’t Easy

CANDIDATE FORUM TACKLES HOMELESSNESS AND HOUSING

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

Athens-Clarke County Commission candidate Sidney Waters compared panhandling to pimping during a segment about homelessness at a recent Federation of Neighborhoods forum.

“Our government invited them here,” Waters said when asked a prepared question about homelessness. “I don’t know if they ever considered the effect this would have on our town and on our tax base.”

Waters said she has observed vans dropping off “shifts” of panhandlers at the College Station Road Kroger. “This is basically pimping,” she said. “These people are not homeless. I know because they’ve told me they can make three to four hundred dollars a day holding a sign.

“I don’t think the [ACC] government is actually looking for solutions,” she added.

“We’re going to have to agree to disagree about that,” said Waters’ opponent, District 8 incumbent Carol Myers, pointing to a strategic plan the commission adopted last year. Other small cities like Covington have the same problem “because people go where there are services,” she said.

As the largest city in the region, Athens is a hub for services, Myers said, and part of the county’s strategy is to talk to surrounding communities about not dropping off unhoused individuals in Athens. The plan also incorporates ideas from the service providers that make up the Athens Homeless Coalition. “We are using them and implementing them,” she said.

District 2 Commissioner Melissa Link was not present due to a long-planned trip to see the total eclipse, but submitted written responses to the prepared questions, going into more detail about the six goals and 10 strategies in the strategic plan. Helping the unhoused involves not just the government, but nonprofits, employers, the health-care industry and other institutions, she wrote.

Link’s opponent, downtown business owner Jason Jacobs, said solving the problem requires addressing the root causes of homelessness, such as mental health and substance abuse. He criticized the commission’s decision to spend $2.5 million on a since-closed homeless camp on county property. “We can do better with that kind of money,” he said.

District 6 candidate Stephanie Johnson divided the homeless into three groups: those who are addicted or mentally challenged; those who have a job but can’t afford rent; and “a population that wants to continue being homeless.” She advocated the use of federal block grants for housing, as well as accountability courts for drug and alcohol abuse.

The other District 6 candidate, Rashe Malcolm, acknowledged that this issue is not her area of expertise, but indicated she is willing to learn. “We treat the symptoms, but we never get to the roots of the problems we have,” she said.

Similarly to homelessness, Myers pointed to ACC’s strategic plan when asked about a related issue, affordable housing. That plan calls for spending $5 million a

year to subsidize housing for low- and middle-income families that can’t afford the market rate. Last month, the commission voted to devote $780,000 to down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers through a First American Bank & Trust program. That funding is part of the $2.5 million the commission has committed to the Athens Justice and Memory Project to rectify the destruction of the Linnentown neighborhood in the 1960s.

“I see a problem with us creating more Linnentowns,” Waters said. Despite evidence that Athens’ rising housing costs are largely driven by a lack of supply, she blamed the commission for encouraging gentrification by approving expensive highrise apartments. “I see this as basically trying to run a certain group of people out of town… so instead of having cars, you will use buses to move around. I see this as us getting rid of the Classic City we used to know as it existed,” she said.

Johnson said the commission should in some way address out-of-town investors, look into the zoning code and recruit businesses that don’t drive up property values. “I’m not providing solutions,” she said, “but I’m providing things I think about.”

discrepancy in pay between police and sheriff’s deputies, who earn less.

Waters claimed that the local police department is at just 67% of full strength. (At an Apr. 9 work session, commissioners learned that ACCPD only has 31 vacant positions out of 320, although the sheriff’s office has a 26% vacancy rate.) She called for hiring another 100 officers. Coming back again to the topic of high-rise apartments, she said the fire department doesn’t have the equipment to reach them, although county officials have said this is false.

Myers said ACCPD is staffing up thanks to substantial raises the mayor and commission have handed out the past few years. She said statistics provided by ACCPD show crime is down 10% overall in 2024. “But there are real problems here,” she said, referencing a 3-year-old who was recently shot to death at the Hallmark mobile home park. Myers attributed violent crime to a lack of opportunity and youth programs, which she said the mayor and commission are working to address by funding after-school activities.

Like Malcom and Johnson, “My focus would be on community policing,” Jacobs said. He also related the issue of crime to affordable housing. “I’d love for our police officers and firefighters to be able to live in the community they serve,” he said.

“ We treat the symptoms, but we never get to the roots of the problems we have.

Link, in a written statement, also said crime is down significantly. She blamed shootings on “pervasive and permissible firearms in our community,” thanks to the Georgia legislature’s lax gun laws.

of the resolution, but not the way it was introduced. She said commissioners were “duped” into supporting it.

Waters said the resolution “has run its course.” She said she “didn’t feel any animosity at all” when her family moved to Athens from Auburn, AL, and that 80 different languages were spoken in public schools when she was on the school board.

Myers was first elected in 2020, but she said she would have voted for the resolution if she had been on the commission, calling it “heartwarming,” and noting that immigrant families were being separated and were victims of violence at the time. “A resolution is a statement of value,” she said, but “it has no legal weight.”

New CCSD Health Clinics

The Clarke County School District will open two new health clinics at Coile Middle School and Classic City High School on the HT Edwards campus.

At its Apr. 11 meeting, school board member Tim Denson relayed concerns from staff about removing classroom space at Classic City. Director of SPLOST John Gilbreath said CCSD’s purchase of the former Rutland Academy building will open up space at HT Edwards. The clinic will take up three classrooms on the second floor and will be separate from the school with its own entrance. “It’s kind of an ideal situation,” Gilbreath said.

The Coile Middle health clinic will be located in a modular unit, like the one at Holston Elementary (formerly Alps Road). The new Clarke Middle School next door, set to open this fall, will include permanent space for the clinic. CCSD also included a clinic when it rebuilt Hilsman Middle.

Malcolm agreed that zoning is important. She advocated for using publicly owned land to build affordable housing, streamlining the permitting process, and encouraging the redevelopment of abandoned buildings. In addition, ACC could do a better job of getting the word out about existing programs, Malcolm said. “There are programs out there—but people don’t know—for them to keep their homes,” she said.

Jacobs said ACC should provide incentives to local builders, fast-track the approval process and allow more duplexes and fourplexes in single-family neighborhoods. “If we could increase the inventory, obviously supply and demand would say those prices are going to come down,” he said.

Link blamed pressure from an “ever-growing population of wealthy students”—UGA enrollment has grown by about 7,000 in the past decade—for rising housing costs. Although at times she has resisted additional density in her intown district, Link said she supports looking for locations around campus for additional student housing, as well as “appropriate” density that protects historically Black neighborhoods.

Public safety is “about more than police stations,” Malcolm said. It’s about knowing your neighbors and your childrens’ teachers. “We start first by becoming a community again,” she said, drawing loud applause.

Johnson, whose husband is a police officer, talked about community policing and how police should get out of their car and get to know the community. She said morale is low because police are under increased scrutiny. She also brought up the

Asked about the newly controversial 2019 resolution declaring that Athens is a welcoming place for immigrants, Jacobs said he wants to ensure ACC is following state and federal law.

Malcolm related her experience as a Jamaican immigrant who now owns a business. “I don’t want to see that [welcoming attitude] go away, because people like me might leave,” she said.

Johnson said she supports the language

The clinics are a partnership with Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center and UGA, and will be funded by grants from the Georgia Department of Education.

In other CCSD news, the board approved the appointment of Matthew Snow as the new principal at Burks Elementary (formerly Chase Street). Snow had been the assistant principal there since 2020 and was named interim principal when Tracey Neal left in January. f

RememberNo plastic bags in the compost!

We’ll compost anything that used to be alive! Compost available for sale at the ACC Landfill

The Eclipse and Earth Day

NATURE CONTINUES TO INSPIRE PEOPLE AND PRESIDENTS

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

Millions of people in the United States, Mexico and Canada gazed heavenward on Apr. 8 as a total eclipse of the sun brought much-needed awe and wonder to an often divided and contentious Planet Earth.

For a few brief minutes, disparate groups were united over something transcendent. Like the solar eclipse of 2017, the recent eclipse gave viewers an experience that inspired and uplifted those of every religion or no religion at all who stood in the path of the moon’s fleeting shadow. The eclipse showed mortal Earthlings who’s really the boss when Mother Nature and Father Time did their stately rendezvous, and the cratered moon veiled the fiery face of the sun.

scandal. President Ulysses Grant in 1872 signed legislation that created Yellowstone National Park, the first official U.S. national park. Though he never visited Yellowstone, to this day visitors at the park’s entrance see words from the law Grant signed to preserve its grandeur “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.”

During his presidency from 1901–1909, Republican Theodore Roosevelt earned his nickname, the Great Conservationist. His efforts to preserve natural sites across America when the 20th century was young still benefit Americans today as the 21st century limps on. It is appropriate that a national park in the rugged Badlands of North Dakota is named for Theodore Roosevelt, the “cowboy president” who said, “Here is your country … Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.” His words still resonate today when mining interests threaten to spoil the beauty of Georgia’s magical and mysterious Okefenokee Swamp.

It was fitting that the Apr. 8 total eclipse of the sun came just two weeks before the annual Earth Day events on Apr. 22. When the moon covers the sun with a cosmic curtain, the drama reminds humans of their precious time here on Earth. We need a sense of wonder and a sense of history, and cosmic events like eclipses provide both.

When Earth Day began in 1970, Americans by the millions rallied to the cause of maintaining a livable home planet just months after sharing the wonder of photos of our fragile Earth taken by astronauts on the moon. Earth Day began during the presidency of Richard M. Nixon, who later left the White House trailing clouds of ignominy in the wake of the Watergate scandal. For all his faults, Nixon did spearhead the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency. He was right when he said, “The Congress, the administration and the public all share a profound commitment to the rescue of our natural environment, and the preservation of the Earth as a place both habitable by and hospitable to man.”

A century before Nixon ushered in the EPA, a victory for the environment was scored by another Republican whose White House years were marked by the stench of

New Pollution Standards

ATHENS DOESN’T MEET THEM FOR DEADLY FINE PARTICLES

By Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com

Forthe first time since the federal 1990 Clean Air Act ushered in the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, Georgia has met all federal air quality standards, according to the state Environmental Protection Division’s most recent annual air monitoring report.

However, much of North Georgia, including Athens, and some areas further south would fail a new, stricter federal standard for a kind of air pollution called “fine particle pollution,” or PM2.5.

PM2.5 includes liquid and solid particles 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller. A micron is one-millionth of a meter; for comparison, human hair ranges in diameter from about 50–70 microns. Such tiny particles can penetrate deep into lungs with serious health consequences like increased heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and both chronic and short-term respiratory illnesses. Reducing PM2.5 pollution could even reduce rates of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, according to researchers at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health.

struction sites, mining, tire rubber eroding on highways, power plants and diesel engines, among others.

In Georgia, controlled burns in forestry and agriculture—some of it to promote ecosystem health and prevent larger forest fires by removing undergrowth fuel— account for nearly a third of the state’s PM2.5 production, according to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division.

Democrat Franklin Roosevelt recognized the importance of the environment during his presidency that spanned the Great Depression and World War II. He created the Civilian Conservation Corps that provided jobs planting trees, blazing wilderness trails and building campgrounds during America’s hard times. “There is nothing so American as our national parks,” he said. In the 1960s John Kennedy agreed with FDR, calling environmental preservation a way of “ensuring that future generations may know the majesty of the Earth as we know it today.”

President Jimmy Carter said, “Love of nature is a common language that can transcend political or social boundaries.” Even Ronald Reagan, the Republican who defeated Carter in 1980, paid lip service to the ideals of Earth Day when he said in a State of the Union address that “Preservation of our environment is not a liberal or conservative challenge. It’s common sense.”

In his inaugural address in 2021, President Joe Biden warned that “a cry for survival comes from the planet itself.” His Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, has called conservationists “prophets of doom.” Politicians fight over the fate of the planet, but Earth Day and the wonder of an eclipse remind us of the truth of Shakespeare’s words: “One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” f

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the new standard could prevent up to 4,500 premature deaths and 290,000 lost workdays annually.

Levels of fine particle pollution in the Southeast have decreased by 48% since 2000, according to the EPA, and nearly that much nationwide. Ozone and other forms of air pollution have also declined. But that’s not enough to adequately protect human health, according to the agency and to health groups such as the American Lung Association, which highlighted PM2.5 pollution in its latest annual “State of the Air” report.

The EPA finalized a new standard for annual average PM2.5 pollution in February: 9 micrograms per cubic meter of air, down from the old standard of 12. Six of Georgia’s PM2.5 monitoring sites wouldn’t pass the new standard, including the one in Clarke County, according to the State of the Air report. Besides Athens, monitors in Albany, Atlanta, Warner Robins, Augusta and Sandersville—about halfway between Macon and Augusta—are also recording PM2.5 levels above the new standard, according to the American Lung Association report.

Climate warming models predict PM2.5 levels are likely to worsen somewhat in the future, in part because we will see more huge forest fires like those that have ravaged western U.S. states and Canada in recent years, sending PM2.5 levels soaring hundreds of miles away as the smoke spreads. The tiny particles come from many sources besides forest fires, mainly related to some kind of fuel burning—dusty con-

The earliest anywhere would enter into so-called “nonattainment” for continually exceeding the new limit is 2032, according to the EPA. Until then, the new standards could go away, depending on political winds. More than 100 Republican members of Congress have called on the EPA to roll back the new limits, saying they are unnecessary and too costly. In a press release, Republican 1st District Rep. Buddy Carter of Pooler called the new standard “a death knell for vital U.S. industries, including manufacturing and timber.” Georgia is the third-leading timber producer among U.S. states.

Any nonattainment zone with Athens in it would likely include much of North Georgia, including metro Atlanta. Air doesn’t recognize county boundaries, and when Athens has high pollution levels, it’s usually because the city is under a shape-shifting blob that affects many more counties than Clarke. Under nonattainment, the state would have to develop a plan to reduce PM2.5 levels.

Warner Robins, Sandersville and Albany would also flunk the new PM2.5 standard, as would Augusta-Richmond County, which in recent years has suffered some of the highest PM2.5 levels in the nation, and the worst of any Southeastern city. The State of the Air report ranked Augusta 15th on a list of U.S. cities with the highest PM2.5 pollution, a couple of slots above No. 17 Birmingham, AL. Most of the cities with the highest PM levels are in western states, with Bakersfield, CA., topping that list.

Augusta also has the distinction of being the Southern city with the fastest-warming winter temperatures among large cities, getting hotter by more than 1 degree Fahrenheit per decade, according to a recent analysis by Harry Stevens of the Washington Post’s Climate Lab. f

A partial solar eclipse Apr. 8 as seen from Indianapolis. JOEL KOWSKY

Controlled burns like this one to protect longleaf pines account for a third of Georgia’s PM2.5 pollution.

A Shuckin’ Good Time

FUNDRAISER SUPPORTS PROTECTING OYSTER HABITATS

By Xinge Lei news@flagpole.com

Georgia is home to approximately a third of the remaining coastal salt marshes along the U.S. East Coast. Intertidal oysters are a keystone species in the coastal ecosystem. By filtering through algae and other pollutants, the presence of dense oyster populations can significantly improve water quality.

According to UGA’s Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, intertidal reefs “provide a hard substrate in the otherwise soft, muddy substrates of Georgia’s estuaries for oyster larvae and other organisms to settle, attach and grow.” The reefs protect coastal salt marshes, as well, by dissipating energy from boats and waves. In addition, oysters are a primary food source for

crabs, anemones, fish and even flatworms. Unfortunately, the prevalence of over-harvesting, disease and habitat loss in recent years has led to a steep decline in oyster populations.

Athens-based nonprofit shell recycling organization Shell to Shore aims to change

this trajectory and to restore the coastal habitats of Georgia. Shell to Shore, an initiative that started among friends almost four years ago, collects and recycles oyster shells around the state of Georgia to reuse in sustainability projects along the coast. Working with restaurants in Athens and Atlanta, such as Five and Ten, Seabear Oyster Bar and Miller Union, Shell to Shore gathers oyster shells on a weekly basis to cure and eventually reintroduce back into the Georgia crystal waters. Shells are stored in a facility at Skidaway Island outside of Savannah, where they are cured for at least six months. Afterwards, they are used to build living shorelines and oyster reefs. This green infrastructure helps protect the coastline by mitigating erosion and flooding from sea-level rise and storm surges. These projects also raise public awareness on the importance of oyster reef habitats.

While Shell to Shore’s first conservation project is still in its planning phase, the group has chosen Sapelo Island as its beneficiary. In the weeks past, board members, UGA hydrologists and volunteers have analyzed the condition of the waters around Sapelo by measuring the level of larva present. The richer the area is with larva, the more likely that future oyster reefs will form. These teams will travel back to ensure that enough larva are moving in the waters before dropping the shell bundles.

Besides preservation efforts, Shell to Shore is devoted to educating communities on the benefits of shell recycling. With the Georgia Department of Natural Resources spearheading most projects, the organization’s outreach has naturally grown. In 2023, the group collected almost 73,000 pounds of oyster shells. Shell recycling coordinator and board member Malcolm Provost says that the collaboration between several different groups allows Shell to Shore to share its knowledge with a broader public.

“Each one of these entities—the government, higher education, us and our restaurant partners, as well as the farmers on the coast—all cooperate and work together to create a cohesive network and basis of knowledge,” Provost says. “Oyster restaurants are all over Georgia, and we’d love to connect with them and bring them into our sphere of influence.”

As the organization grows, Provost sees the potential for expansion. He says that the team is currently discussing creating a hub in Atlanta, seeing the many opportunities for shell collection in the city. This hub is said to run itself in the long run, but starting up, it will require help from volunteers, which Shell to Shore is always happy to accept.

Outside of volunteering, Shell to Shore encourages individuals to simply donate their used shells rather than throwing them away. For anyone who is interested in recycling their own shells, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has launched a map at coastalgadnr.org/ ShellRecycling detailing all recycling centers available in the state.

On Apr. 21, Shell to Shore will be hosting its third annual ShellFest celebration and fundraiser at the Bottleworks on Prince Avenue from 3–7 p.m. The event will feature live music, raw and steamed oyster bars, local cocktails, and beer and wine. The funds gathered will be used toward sustaining Shell to Shore’s state-wide shell recycling operations all year long. Tickets are $75 for general admission and $150 for VIP admission, which includes an additional happy hour at Hendershot’s with “bites and bevs” from the Vietnamese pop-up Pretty Boy. f

WHAT: ShellFest

WHEN: Sunday, Apr 21, 3–7 p m

WHERE: Bottleworks

HOW MUCH: $75–150

ShellFest will feature four live bands in addition to oysters and drinks.

Georgia oyster farmers E.L. McIntosh and Son.

RINNE ALLEN

event calendar

Wednesday 17

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

ART: Closing Reception (Jackson Street Building) Atlanta artist and National Geographic photographer Peter Essick’s exhibition “Work in Progress” will be on view. 4:30 p.m. FREE! ced.uga.edu

ART: Opening Reception (The Rook and Pawn) Celebrate the exhibition “Serenade” featuring local artists with food, drink and live music. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.therookandpawn. com

CLASSES: ARTWORK Workshop Series (Lyndon House Arts Center) Artists and creative professionals will learn about estate planning for artists with Trace Brooks. Registration suggested. 5:30–7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/LyndonHouse Arts

CLASSES: Salsa Dancing (El Carretonero) 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

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

EVENTS: Milonga Tropical Spring 2024 (Rialto Club) The event features tango lessons, live dance performances by various groups and an open floor for social dancing. 6:30–10 p.m. FREE! www. milongatropical.com

FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1997 action comedy film Double Team. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com

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

GAMES: Miss Thing’s Drag Bingo (40 Watt Club) Play bingo hosted by Sophia Lo’Rent, Lacie Bruce and Karmella Macchiato to win prizes. All ages. 5:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (bingo). www.boybutante.org

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: Playtime Express (Oconee County Library) Join a train-themed small group playtime. Registration required. Ages 3 & up. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

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: Red Coral Stories (Online) This virtual tour of the exhibition “Red Coral Stories: Reimagining Classical Pasts for Native Futures” will be led by curator Kendall Lovely. Register for Zoom link. 4 p.m. FREE! history. uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (ACC Library) Enjoy conversation between Deirdre Sugiuchi and author Ellen Ann Fentress for her book The Steps We Take: A Memoir of Southern Reckoning. 7 p.m. FREE! www.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

THEATER: Little Shop of Horrors (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) UGA Theatre presents this adaptation of the cult classic adding a culture war lens about drag culture. Apr. 17–20, 8 p.m. Apr. 21, 2 p.m. $6 (students), $18. www.ugatheatre.com

Thursday 18

ART: Artist Talk (Lyndon House Arts Center) Hear a small grouping of exhibiting artists from the “49th Juried Exhibition” discuss their works. 6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook. com/LyndonHouseArts

ART: Third Thursday (tiny ATH gallery) Artist Holly V. Hutch will have art on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www. tinyathgallery.com

ART: Artist Reception (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) The exhibition “Dewdrops and Clouds” features a collection of giclee prints by Manda McKay. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.com

CLASSES: Yoga in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy a yoga class in the art galleries led by instructors from Five Points Yoga. Open to all skill levels. Attend in person (first come, first served) or via Zoom. 6 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

COMEDY: Comedy in the Cellar (Onward Reserve) This week Athens Comedy presents headliner Jeremy Mesi from Atlanta with a lineup of local comedians. Thursdays, 8:30–10:30 p.m. $8–12. www.facebook. com/athenscomedy

EVENTS: Illuminate Gala (The Classic Center) The Athens Tech Foundation hosts an annual dinner spotlighting donors and the Foundation’s impact on workforce development in the community. Registration required. 5:30 p.m. $150. www.athenstechfoundation. kindful.com/e/illuminate-2024

GAMES: Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) Volunteer-led gaming session for teens of all skill levels. Grades 6–12. 6–7:45 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

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

GAMES: Rock ’n Roll Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host The Music Man. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.com

KIDSTUFF: Open Play (Oconee County Library) Drop in for bubbles, playtime, children’s music and companionship. Ages 5 & under. Thursdays, 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

KIDSTUFF: LEGO Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in to free build and create, or do one of the fun LEGO challenges. Ages 5–12. Thursdays, 3:30–5:30. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

KIDSTUFF: Read to Rover (Bogart Library) Drop in to read a story to Maisy Jane and her furry friends. Ages 4 & up. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Middlemen of Modernity (Online) This virtual presentation by Christopher Craig is about “Middlemen of Modernity: Local Elites and Agricultural Development in Modern Japan.” Register for Zoom link. 9 a.m. FREE! history. uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Writing Relationality Now (61 Park Hall) Dr. Jeffrey Clapp will discuss the reading strategy of how an author’s treatment of character provides information about genre and periodization. 12:15 p.m. FREE! english. uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (Delta Innovation Hub) Author Valerie Babb will discuss her new book The Book of James: The Power, Politics, and Passion of LeBron with Ed Pavlić and Greg Taylor. 7 p.m. FREE! calendar.uga.edu

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

MEETINGS: Future Land Use Public Input (ACC Library) The public is invited to learn more, ask questions and provide feedback on future land use efforts. 5:30–7 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/compplan

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

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

THEATER: Little Shop of Horrors (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) UGA Theatre presents this adaptation of the cult classic adding a culture war lens about drag culture. Apr. 17–20, 8 p.m. Apr. 21, 2 p.m. $6 (students), $18. www.ugatheatre.com

THEATER: Cyrano (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown presents a retelling of the classic tale set in 1920s inspiring its audience to face their self-doubt. Apr. 18–21, 8 p.m. $20. www.townandgownplayers.org

Friday 19

ART: Opening Reception (Lamar Dodd School of Art) The exhibition “Liminal” will feature the art of 40 students graduating this spring. 6–8 p.m. FREE! art.uga.edu

COMEDY: The Hothouse (work. shop) True-to-life improv comedy inspired by audience suggestions featuring Jade Fernandez, Bradley Bazzle and Matt House. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: Terrapin Mobile Food Pantry (Terrapin Beer Co.) First come, first serve rain or shine food distribution for those in need who meet income eligibility requirements. Third Fridays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.terrapinbeer.com

EVENTS: Madison Tour of Homes and Gardens (Madison-Morgan Cultural Center) The annual spring tour features five historic private homes and their color-rich gardens. Apr. 19–20, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $30 –40. www.mmcc-arts.org

EVENTS: Georgia Trust Spring Ramble (Various Locations) Over 50 historic homes and sites in Athens and Watkinsville will be open for tours. Registration required. Apr. 19–21. $60–75. www.georgiatrust. org

EVENTS: Friday Afternoon Unwind (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in and relax with complimentary coffee, hot tea and snacks. 3–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oglethorpe

EVENTS: Blossom After Dark (Lyndon House Arts Center) An evening of entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and silent auctions to raise support and awareness of mental health initiatives within the community. 6 p.m. $25. www.athensparentwell being.org

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 (Oconee County Library) Drop in for open chess play for all skill levels. 5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ location/oconee

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: Spanish Storytime (Oconee County Library) Listen to and practice Spanish songs and stories for any skill level. All ages. 5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Southern Workshop on the Ethics of Emerging Technologies (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Panelists from Georgia and Florida universities will gather for this two-day event examining ethical issues around emerging technologies. Apr. 19–20, 9 a.m. FREE! phil.uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Somewhere

Not to Belong (144 Park Hall) Dr. Dustin Stewart will discuss poet and naturalist George Crabbe’s ecology. 12:30 p.m. FREE! english.uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Thinking Green: Botany, B-Movies, and Bodyody-ody (UGA Fine Arts Building) This panel featuring faculty from plant sciences, film studies and women’s studies will be moderated by the Little Shop of Horrors dramaturg Sloan Elle Garner. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.ugatheatre.com

MEETINGS: Help I Yarned (Bogart Library) Learn new patterns and techniques for knitting and crochet. 1–2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart

MEETINGS: Homeschool Meet-Up (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in to learn and interact with other homeschool families and students of all ages. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oglethorpe

PERFORMANCE: Willy Wonka JR (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) The Studio Athens presents a family-friendly show based on the beloved children’s book with music from the original movie. Apr. 19, 7:30 p.m. Apr. 20, 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $12 (adv.), $15. tinyurl.com/ studiotix

THEATER: Little Shop of Horrors (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) UGA Theatre presents this adaptation of the cult classic adding a culture war lens about drag culture. Apr. 17–20, 8 p.m. Apr. 21, 2 p.m. $6 (students), $18. www.ugatheatre. com

THEATER: Cyrano (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown presents a retelling of the classic tale set in 1920s inspiring its audience to face their self-doubt. Apr. 18–21, 8 p.m. $20. www.townandgownplayers.org

THEATER: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged (On Stage Playhouse) Four actors will weave their way through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in one fast-paced play. Apr. 19–20, 26–27 & May 3–4, 8 p.m. Apr. 30, 7:30 p.m. Apr. 28 & May 5, 2 p.m. $20. www. onstagewalton.org

Saturday 20

ART: Plein Air Painting (Sweet Olive Farm) Bring your own materials to paint with easels, drawing boards and chairs provided. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.acc govga.myrec.com

ART: Opening Reception (OCAF)

The juried exhibition “Southeastern Pastel Society: All About Pastels” and Bobbi Johnson’s “Perspective: A Journey into Mental Health” will be on view. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www. ocaf.com

ART: Opening Reception (ATHICA)

The exhibition “Parameter” features the work of Candace Hicks, ClaudeGerard Jean and Timothy McCool. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athica.org

COMEDY: Don Toberman: Ping Pong Champ (work.shop) Physicalcomedian Chase Brantley engages in wild audience interaction while portraying the highest-decorated player in the game’s history. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: Plant 2 Plate (Bishop Park) Browse vegetable, herb and flower plants from local farms to

start your garden. Apr. 20 & Apr. 28, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athens farmersmarket.net

EVENTS: Georgia Bird Fest Summit (The Classic Center) The summit will feature a keynote presentation and breakout sessions highlighting Georgia’s conservation, education and community engagement programming. Registration required. 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $125. www.birdsgeorgia.org/ birdfest.html

EVENTS: Grand Opening (Classic City Flowers & Nursery) Classic City Flowers and Nursery will celebrate its official opening with planting stations, food trucks, live music and more. Apr. 20, 9 a.m. –7 p.m. Apr. 21, 12–6 p.m. FREE! www.classiccityflowers.com

EVENTS: Madison Tour of Homes and Gardens (Madison-Morgan Cultural Center) The annual spring tour features five historic private homes and their color-rich gardens. Apr. 19–20, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $30 –40. www.mmcc-arts.org

EVENTS: Spring Plant Sale (R&R Secret Farm) Browse a wide variety of pollinator-friendly perennials, annuals, natives, herbs and veggies. Apr. 20, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Apr. 21, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.rrsecret flowers.com

EVENTS: Earth Day Celebration (Foxglove Plantbar) Browse the Ladies Garden Club plant sale, permanent jewelry by Magpie Goods & Glitz and DIY mini terrariums for kids. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. www. foxgloveplantbar.com

EVENTS: West Broad Farmers Market (Rock Springs Park Pavilion) Vendors will be on site with fresh produce, local fare, rare plants, artisan goods and more. Saturdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslandtrust.org/wbfm

EVENTS: Terrapin’s 22nd Anniversary (Terrapin Beer Co.) Celebrate the brewery’s anniversary with a Grateful Dead themed Touch of Brews event featuring all-day live music, street vendors, familyfriendly activities and more. 11 a.m. –8 p.m. $30. www.touchofbrews. com/athens

EVENTS: Heartsong Herbs Plant Sale (Indie South) Browse over 50 varieties of medicinal herbs, flowers and veggies. 11–3 p.m. www.the indiesouth.com

EVENTS: Georgia Trust Spring Ramble (Various Locations) Over 50 historic homes and sites in Athens and Watkinsville will be open for tours. Registration required. Apr. 19–21. $60–75. www.georgiatrust. org

EVENTS: Tea Rex Party (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Drop in to enjoy a morning of stories, crafts and snacks with a special dino guest. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oglethorpe

EVENTS: Earth Day Garden Swap (Bogart Library) Third annual family-friendly event with fun activities, plant and seed swaps, and more. 12 –4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart

EVENTS: Only The Strong’s 3rd Annual Firefighter Benefit (Akademia Brewing Co.) This year’s event features appetizers, raffle prizes and live music with proceeds benefitting The National Fallen Firefighters Association and Local Fire Education and Training. 4–10

p.m. FREE! onlythestrong2023@ gmail.com

EVENTS: White Tiger’s Birthday (White Tiger Gourmet) Celebrate 17 years of the restaurant with birthday cake, fun and live music. 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/WhiteTiger

GourmetAthens

EVENTS: Athens Folk Music and Dance Society Contra Dance (Memorial Park Administration Building) This community dance features caller Deanna Palumbo and live music by Max and Maggie and the Drivin’ Wheels. No partner required. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7 p.m. (dance). $12 (adults), $10 (students w/ ID), 17 & under FREE! www.athensfolk.org

EVENTS: Boybutante Ball (40 Watt Club) Boybutante AIDS Foundation’s annual event featuring a night of drag performances, celebrating 35 years with the theme “Express Yourself.” 8–11:30 p.m. $25. www.40watt.com

EVENTS: Spring Fling Fashion Thing 3 (Urban Greenhouse) This spring fashion show features models walking down the runway wearing local designer fashion followed by a DJ dance party. 8–11:30 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ byv_trubb

FILM: Free The Tapes: Home Movie Edition (UGA Special Collections Library) View clips from community videos and a curated selection of home movies and amateur films with staff on hand to answer questions about digitizing tapes. 1–3 p.m. FREE! www.libs. uga.edu/events/free-tapes-homemovie-edition

FILM: 35000 Watts: The Story of College Radio (Ciné) Screening of the documentary about the students behind the mic and the bands they made famous. 2 p.m. $9. www. athenscine.com

FILM: Backlight Student Film Festival (UGA Tate Student Center) This showcase of student films features panels, screenings and awards. Apr. 20, 6–9:30 p.m. Apr. 21, 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. www.back lightfilmfestival.com

GAMES: Pathfinder Society RPG (Tyche’s Games) Come and adventure with the Pathfinder Society. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a story. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Southern Workshop on the Ethics of Emerging Technologies (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Panelists from Georgia and Florida universities will gather for this two-day event examining ethical issues around emerging technologies. Apr. 19–20, 9 a.m. FREE! phil.uga.edu

LECTURES & LIT: Teach-In: Some Like It Hot (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) Experts will discuss the effects of climate change on global conflict with a Q&A session, lunch and conversations. RSVP required. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE! www.uuathensga.org/ calendar

MEETINGS: Atheist Society of Athens Meet & Greet (ACC Library) Non-prophet discussions with friends and neighbors. Third Saturdays, 4 p.m. FREE! www.atheist societyathens.org

PERFORMANCE: Willy Wonka JR (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) The Studio Athens presents a family-friendly show based on the beloved children’s book with music from the original movie. Apr. 19, 7:30 p.m. Apr. 20, 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $12 (adv.), $15. tinyurl.com/ studiotix

PERFORMANCE: Athens Got Talent (1055 Barber) The Cottage Sexual Assault Center & Children’s Advocacy Center will host an all-ages talent show with activities for kids, games, music, food and drink. 6–8:30 p.m. $20–25 (adv.), $25–30. www.northgeorgiacottage.org

THEATER: Little Shop of Horrors (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) UGA Theatre presents this adaptation of the cult classic adding a culture war lens about drag culture. Apr. 17–20, 8 p.m. Apr. 21, 2 p.m. $6 (students), $18. www.ugatheatre.com

THEATER: Cyrano (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown presents a retelling of the classic tale set in 1920s inspiring its audience to face their self-doubt. Apr. 18–21, 8 p.m. $20. www.townandgownplayers.org

THEATER: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged (On Stage Playhouse) Four actors will weave their way through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in one fast-paced play. Apr. 19–20, 26–27 & May 3–4, 8 p.m. Apr. 30, 7:30 p.m. Apr. 28 & May 5, 2 p.m. $20. www. onstagewalton.org

Sunday 21

ART: Open Studio Sale (135 Eaglewood Way) Browse an assortment of work by artist Lisa Freeman. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. www.instagram.com/ freeman_lisa

ART: Artist Talk (Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens) Artist Elizabeth Bishop–Martin will discuss her work in the collaborative exhibition “The Three Graces.” 12 p.m. FREE! www.uuathensga.org

ART: The 3 C’s (Steffen Thomas Museum of Art) Explore the concept of art curation, the accessibility of art collecting and the importance of conserving the work you collect. 2–5 p.m. $35. 706-342-7667

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: UGA Salsa Club (UGA Memorial Hall) Learn foundational movements of salsa with no partner or experience required. 3:30 p.m.

FREE! Experienced salsa dancers will learn a new style and more advanced techniques. 4 p.m. $5. www.ugasalsaclub.com/sundayclass

COMEDY: Tournament of Topics (The Globe) Competition with a variety of comedians riffing on random topics hosted by Levi Crumely. 9 p.m. $5. www.athenscomedy.com

EVENTS: Spring Plant Sale (R&R Secret Farm) Browse a wide variety of pollinator-friendly perennials, annuals, natives, herbs and veggies. Apr. 20, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Apr. 21, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.rrsecret flowers.com

EVENTS: Georgia Trust Spring Ramble (Various Locations) Over 50 historic homes and sites in Athens and Watkinsville will be open for tours. Registration required. Apr. 19–21. $60–75. www.georgiatrust. org

EVENTS: Grand Opening (Classic City Flowers & Nursery) Classic City Flowers and Nursery will celebrate its official opening with planting stations, food trucks, live music and more. Apr. 20, 9 a.m. –7 p.m. Apr. 21, 12–6 p.m. FREE! www.classiccityflowers.com

EVENTS: Pop-Up Outdoor Market (The Rook and Pawn) Browse local vendors, including some of the artists from the exhibition “Serenade.” 12–6 p.m. www.therookandpawn. com

EVENTS: GROTA Darkmarket (The Venue on Broad) There will be a large selection of dark-spirited vendors and entertainment. 12:30–7 p.m. Donations encouraged. Search Gothe Residency of the Arts on Facebook

EVENTS: Dawg Jog 5K (Sandy Creek Nature Center) The UGA Pre-Vet Club hosts a dog-friendly 5K benefitting Athens Pets. 1 p.m. (5K), 2 p.m. (awards). $30. www. runsignup.com/dawgjog5k

EVENTS: Mayor’s Spring Picnic (Bishop Town Hall) An inaugural celebratory event featuring barbecue, live music, a kids zone and more. 1–3 p.m. FREE! www.townof bishop.org

EVENTS: Athens Beer Fest (The Classic Center) Sample beers from regional breweries with live music and food trucks in benefit of The Classic Center Cultural Foundation. Ages 21 & up. 1 p.m. $45–85. www.classiccenter.com

EVENTS: Pups & Pints (Athentic Brewing Co.) The patio will be full of adoptable dogs with a free pour for every adoption. Third Sundays, 3–6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: Young Georgia Authors Reception (Madison County Library) The Friends of the Madison County Library will honor the recipients of the award for K-12 students. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/madison

EVENTS: ShellFest (Bottleworks)

Enjoy live music, raw and steamed oysters, and featured local cocktails, beer and wine in benefit of Georgia’s Shell to Shore nonprofit. 3–7 p.m. $75–150. www.shellto shore.com

EVENTS: Once Upon A Time In China (Oconee County Library)

The Picadilly Puppets presents an all-ages show based on the story of The Empty Pot about being honest, patient and courageous. 4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ locations/oconee

EVENTS: 18th Annual Taste of Oconee (Oconee County Middle School) Enjoy culinary samples from local restaurants along with entertainment provided by students from the OCMS Choirs and Blue Note Ensemble. 5 p.m. $15–20. www.tasteofoconee.com

FILM: Backlight Student Film Festival (UGA Tate Student Center) This showcase of student films features panels, screenings and awards. Apr. 20, 6–9:30 p.m. Apr. 21, 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. www.back lightfilmfestival.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

LECTURES & LIT: Three Rivers Poets Poetry Reading (Emmanuel Episcopal Church) Athens-area poets Melisa Cahnmann-Taylor, Clela Reed, Lee Ann Pingel, Rebecca McCarthy, Rebecca Baggett and Sara Baker will share their work followed by a reception. 3 p.m. FREE! www.emmanuelathens. org

PERFORMANCE: Another Day of Sun (Morton Theatre) The UGA Tap Dawgs Club performs its yearly spring showcase. 1:30 p.m. $5–10. www.bit.ly/tapdawgs24

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

THEATER: Little Shop of Horrors (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) UGA Theatre presents this adaptation of the cult classic adding a culture war lens about drag culture. Apr.

17–20, 8 p.m. Apr. 21, 2 p.m. $6 (students), $18. www.ugatheatre. com

THEATER: Cyrano (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown presents a retelling of the classic tale set in 1920s inspiring its audience to face their self-doubt. Apr. 18–21, 8 p.m. $20. www.townandgownplayers.org

Monday 22

CLASSES: Free Vietnamese Class (Oconee County Library) Instructor Martine Thy Nguyen will lead a class on the basics of Vietnamese. 6–7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

EVENTS: Earth Day: Ask a Master Gardener (Oglethorpe Co. Library) Enjoy a Q&A session on how to help your plants to grow, general gardening concerns and more. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oglethorpe

FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) A black-belt badass must infiltrate a ruthless fight club to find her missing sister in the screen’s first erotic kung-fu classic Firecracker 8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ BadMovieNight

GAMES: General Trivia with Erin (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Erin. 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: Teen STEAM (Oconee County Library) Drop in and independently work on robotics, microscopy, coding, simple machine building and more. Grades 6–12. 6–7 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Midnight Release Party for Funny Story (Avid Bookshop) Celebrate the release of Emily Henry’s new book with drinks, mingling, trivia and more. 10 p.m.–12 a.m. FREE! www. avidbookshop.com

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

MEETINGS: Pen Pals Writing Group (Oconee County Library) Meet other writers, share your writing experiences and get feedback on your work. Second Mondays, 5:30 p.m. Fourth Mondays, 4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

Tuesday 23

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

EVENTS: Torrance Festival of Ideas (Online) Celebrate 40 years of UGA’s Torrance Center for Creativity with three days of inspiring, innovative, thought-provoking discussions. Apr. 23–25,

9 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.tinyurl. com/2024ideasfest

EVENTS: Publishing Your Book (Oglethorpe Co. Library) An introduction to publishing through Amazon KDP that will teach you how to format your book, how to choose a cover and more. 12:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oglethorpe

FILM: Even Hell Has Its Heroes (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Attaboy Tapes presents a film about the metal band Earth that created a subgenre of music and played a pivotal role in the popularization of grunge. 9 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreand bar.com

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: Dirty South Trivia (White Tiger Deluxe) Test your trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 6 p.m. www. facebook.com/DirtySouthTrivia

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: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Join Ms. Jera for crafts, songs, movement and more. Ages 0–5. Tuesdays, 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ location/oconee

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

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (ACC Library) Author Earl Swift will read from his book Hell Put to Shame: The 1921 Murder Farm Massacre and the Horror of America’s Second Slavery. 7 p.m. FREE! www.avidbookshop.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

PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling: The Story of Your Name (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “The Story of Your Name” with eight people sharing the meaning behind their names. 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 24

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

ART: Artist Talk (The Athenaeum) Artists featured in the thesis exhibition “Sharpening a Screw” will

discuss their work. 6 p.m. FREE! art.uga.edu

CLASSES: Create Your Death File Workshop (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn how to convey your end-oflife wishes through an organized death file with all materials provided and access to an End of Life Doula to answer questions. Registration required. 6 p.m. $75. www.athentic brewing.com

CLASSES: Salsa Dancing (El Carretonero) 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: Torrance Festival of Ideas (Online) Celebrate 40 years of UGA’s Torrance Center for Creativity with three days of inspiring, innovative, thought-provoking discussions. Apr. 23–25, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.tinyurl.com/2024ideasfest

EVENTS: Celebrating Kick Ath Women (Live Wire) Join Women Who Work for a business community focused networking event with pop-up shops and light refreshments. Registration required. 5–7 p.m. $15. www.business.athensga. com

EVENTS: Green Life Awards Ceremony (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Organizations and individuals who go above and beyond in creating a more sustainable tomorrow for all of us will be honored and celebrated. 6 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/greenlife

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: Parachute Playtime (Oconee County Library) Join the librarians for engaging parachute activities followed by open play. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.com/ locations/oconee

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: Kids Book Club (Oconee County Library) Celebrate this month’s book Dogman with a party, games, crafts and snacks. Ages 8–11. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/locations/oconee

KIDSTUFF: Pancakes & PJs (Oconee County Library) Enjoy pancakes and relax in pajamas or comfy wear while watching a movie that was filmed in Georgia. Grades 6–12. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Book Launch Party (Ciné) Leara Rhodes celebrates the release of her book Spancil Hill. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www. avidbookshop.com

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

April Madness

A ROUND-UP OF LOCAL FESTIVALS

By Mary Beth Bryan, Jessica Smith and Sam Lipkin arts@flagpole.com

We’re reaching the peak of delightful spring weather, a small window in between dreary winter days and the oppressive heat of summer that’s prime real estate for outdoor events. That, combined with the smokers’ holiday of 4/20 landing on a Saturday, is keeping Athens’ calendar busy this weekend. Check out some of the festivals happening around town below.

Chronic Weekend

Apr. 19–20 • Normal Bar

Chronic Weekend is a festival celebrating weed culture and the way it bolsters the music scene. The festival, aptly held the weekend of 4/20, will accordingly feature a wide selection of both heavy hitters and newer punk and punk-adjacent acts from Athens and Atlanta. Friday’s lineup will include punk trio Small, punk metal band Pervert, experimental band Wieuca, members of Mercyland and Sugar joining to form David Barbe Plus, DIY punk band Delta 8, hardcore band Multiple Miggs and noise-punk band McQQeen. Saturday’s lineup will include post-punk band All Gods, the driving indie rock of Telemarket, Nihilist Cheerleader’s riot grrrl punk, surf-punk from Nuclear Tourism, a Stooges cover band, experimental acid-punk and noise-grunge band Rubber Udder and punk band Eyesore. 7 p.m. (doors). $15/day. facebook.com/normal.bar.7 [Mary Beth Bryan]

Georgia Bird Fest Summit

Apr. 20 • The Classic Center

Birds Georgia—a nonprofit dedicated to building birdfriendly communities through conservation, education and community engagement—will host the inaugural Georgia Bird Fest Summit in Athens this weekend. The one-day summit will feature a keynote address entitled “Coloring the Conservation Conversation” by J. Drew Lanham, who is the poet laureate, McArthur fellow and professor of wildlife ecology at Clemson University. Lanham will discuss what it means to embrace his African-American heritage in conjunction with his deep kinship to nature and adoration of birds. Following the keynote presentation, there will be six break-out sessions that attendees can choose from. The summit is part of the ninth annual Georgia Bird Fest, which will host more than 40 events across the state. Online registration is required and closes Apr. 19. 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $125. birdsgeorgia.org/birdfest.html [Sam Lipkin]

Touch of Brews

Apr. 20 • Terrapin Beer Co.

Terrapin Beer Co. is celebrating its 22nd anniversary with Touch of Brews, a festival the brewery hosts in both Athens and Nashville. All-day live music will be imbued with the spirit of jam bands, featuring original music and cover bands such as Athens is Dead, End of the Line, Bird Dog Jubilee, The Rock n Roll Playhouse, Dire Wolf, Mike Miz, Justin Smith, Trevor Clark and Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreational Industry. The event will be kidfriendly, featuring a kid zone and free entry for those under 12. There will also be food trucks, street vendors, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and, of course, plenty of Terrapin beer. An afterparty presented by Aubrey Entertainment will be held at 7 p.m. at Paloma Park, featuring Julia Catherine, Dire Wolf, Rae and the Ragdolls, Cannon Rogers & the 420 Unit, and Cam and His Dam Jam Band. Tickets for the after-party are $10. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $22–40. terrapinbeer.com [MB]

Blues, Brews & BBQ Festival

Apr. 20 • Southern Brewing Co.

Presented by Aubrey Entertainment, the third annual Blues, Brews & BBQ Fest will allow patrons to enjoy classic

Southern eats and local blues music. Big C & AJ will be performing blues rock at 3 p.m. At 3:40 p.m., The Vibratones, who are veterans of the mid-‘90s Athens blues scene, will perform a mix of blues styles ranging from Chicago to Texas to West Coast swing. The Original Screwtops will bring original and classic blues covers to the stage at 4:35 p.m. Terraplane Blue is on next at 5:25 p.m. delivering the blues on vintage instruments and amps. Frankie’s Blues Tradition is on at 6:25 p.m., combining blues, jazz, R&B and zydeco in the best of the African American tradition. Lastly Rick Fowler Band will perform at 7:45 p.m., bringing blues rock for fans of ’60s and ’70s music, full of lyrical maturity and attitude. 2 p.m. (doors), 3 p.m. (music). $15 (adv.), $20. facebook.com/AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA [MB]

Backlight Student Film Festival

Apr. 20– 21 • UGA Tate Student Center

Founded in 2021, the nonprofit Backlight Student Film Festival seeks to foster creativity and innovation within the Georgia film community by promoting the work of aspiring student filmmakers and hosting opportunities for professional development. In addition to screenings of short- and mid-length films by this year’s finalists, the two-day festival will offer a panel discussion on filmmaking in Georgia, an industry mixer, a red carpet event with cast and crew, and an awards ceremony. With an average acceptance rate of only 8%, the competitive festival accepts submissions from both undergraduate and graduate students from across the state. This year’s festival is supported by Assembly Studios, Trilith Institute, Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Georgia Film Office, Athens Film Office, Project Casting and Epting Events. 6–9:30 p.m. (Sat), 12–4 p.m. (Sun). backlightfilmfestival.com [Jessica Smith]

Boybutante Ball

Apr. 20 • 40 Watt Club

Benefitting Live Forward’s mission to support people who are HIV positive throughout Northeast Georgia, the 35th Boybuntane Ball is a celebration of self-expression and acceptance. The ball, put on by the Boybuntante AIDS Foundation, is the largest drag event in Athens—previously described in Flagpole as “a sort of gay homecoming”—and has been a big part of Boybutante’s success in raising more than $1 million since its conception. In addition to the ball, 40 Watt will also host an all-ages Miss Thing’s Drag Bingo at 7 p.m. on Apr. 17 with hosts Sophia Lo’Rent and Lacie Bruce with Karmella Macchiato. Bingo cards are three for $10. 1055 Barber will host a Survivors Brunch at 11 a.m. on Apr. 21 with a buffet from Mama’s Boy and bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys. Tickets for brunch are $20. 8 p.m. (doors). $25. boybutante.org [MB]

Athens Beer Fest

Apr. 21 • The Classic Center

The second annual Athens Beer Fest allows patrons to sample beers from a long list of regional breweries, including Akademia Brewing Co., Braselton Brewing Co., Creature Comforts Brewing Co., Normaltown Brewing Co., Terrapin Beer Co. and many others. The festival benefits The Classic Center Cultural Foundation, which awards tens of thousands in grants and scholarships in hospitality education, performing arts and visual arts. Athens Beer Fest will also feature provisions from local food truck favorites, including Café Racer, Biggum’s BBQ, Homy’s, King of Pops and Old Dad’s World Famous Wings. In partnership with Aubrey Entertainment, there will be shows from high-energy Southern rockers Dirt Road Revival and Kip Jones Band, a cover band whose repertoire ranges from folk to rock to R&B. 1 p.m. $45–85. classiccenter.com [MB] f

live music calendar

Tuesday 16

Ciné

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

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

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

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

GABRIELLA DELLIPONTI Indie pop singer-songwriter.

HOUSE GUESTS Four-piece Athens rock band.

MARS HILL Three-piece indie rock band with a killer grunge and garage sound.

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.

Normal Bar

7–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ normal.bar.7

OPEN MIC Try out a new tune or sit back and relax. Every Tuesday.

WUOG

Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org

RITIKA Local songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist. Swing by the station to watch in person or tune in to 90.5 FM.

Wednesday 17

Creature Comforts

Brewery

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

RED OAK STRING BAND Local band playing a feel-good blend of bluegrass, blues, folk, rock and classic country. (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.

The Foundry

6 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $25 (adv.), $30. bit.ly/RebirthBrassBandAthens

REBIRTH BRASS BAND For almost four decades, this Grammy Award-winning group has paid homage to the New Orleans bass band tradition.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $12. www.georgiatheatre.com

RED MILE ROAD A fusion of ’90s Seattle grunge and ’70s Southern rock. Final show!

FRIGGA FIVE Atlanta rock band.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

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

WIND SYMPHONY & SYMPHONIC BAND Tonight’s program includes the consortium premiere of “Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly” by UGA faculty Peter Van Zandt Lane.

Porterhouse Grill

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

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens captained by drummer Mason Davis performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

The Rook and Pawn “Serenade: An Exhibition of Artworks” Opening Reception. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.therookandpawn.com

JOHN KIRAN FERNANDES Ambient and minimalist looped clarinet inspired by bird-song and the looped reed work of Terry Riley and Ariel Kalma.

Thursday 18

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

TONI HUNLO Electrified, soulful artist with a soft, inspiring sound.

SAFARI ROOM Nashville-based indie-rock outfit led by Alec Koukol. JACK & JEALOUS Athens band formed by two brothers.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15 (adv.), $20. www.georgiatheatre. com

RESTLESS ROAD Nashville-based country band whose members met as contestants on “The X Factor.”

ERIN KINSEY Nashville country artist with effortless, bright vocals and lyricism wise beyond her years.

Hendershot’s 7 p.m. (sign-ups), 8 p.m. (show).

FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com

JAZZ JAM Seth Hendershot and the house band Unstarched host an open jazz jam.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

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

AFRICAN AMERICAN CHORAL

ENSEMBLE This year’s spring concert celebrates UGA associate professor of music Gregory S. Broughton’s 35th anniversary as director.

Hugh Hodgson School of Music

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

BULLDOG BRASS SOCIETY UGA’s premiere graduate brass quintet.

Nowhere Bar

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

SOLID COUNTRY GOLD Diablo boys playing country jams. Ramsey Hall

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

UGA TUBA/EUPHONIUM

ENSEMBLE Graduate and undergraduate low brass students play serious original compositions, transcriptions of orchestral literature and lighter arrangements.

Southern Brewing Co. 6–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

KARAOKE NIGHT Every Thursday evening.

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

WONDERLAND RANGERS Local rabble-rouser Timi Conley performs dance-tastic psych-pop with his allstar backing band.

LIBBALOOPS Local electronic music and looping artist.

Friday 19

1818 Brewing Company

6–9 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ theluckyjones

THE LUCKY JONES Old school rockin’ rhythm and blues on the patio.

40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors). $15. www.40watt.com

BRYCE LEATHERWOOD Young country artist who won season 22 of “The Voice.”

SCOOT TEASLEY Born and raised in Toccoa, this country singersongwriter was inspired early on by artists including Chris Stapleton and Tyler Childers.

Buvez

7–10 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ darkentriesathens

DARK ENTRIES KARAOKE Sing your favorite song from a curated catalog of classic to modern goth, post-punk, punk, ’80s and J-Pop. Dancz Center for New Music

5 p.m. music.uga.edu NEW MUSIC STUDIOS-INRESIDENCE MARATHON World premieres of UGA student compositions for ensembles, plus soloists from the flute studio, viola studio and tuba/euphonium studio.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

KEVIN COLEMAN Folk guitarist from Virginia fingerpicking in the American primitive tradition.

THE RISHIS Psych-folk featuring members of The Olivia Tremor Control, Elf Power and The Apples in Stereo.

CHAIRS Ambient soundscapes utilizing synthesizers, acoustic guitar, theremin and harmonium. The Foundry 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $20 (adv.), $25. bit.ly/Kinchafoonee April19

KINCHAFOONEE COWBOYS

Long-running country band from South Georgia that was established in 1991.

LEAH BELLE FASER Pop country singer-songwriter from Atlanta. Hendershot’s 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

BICHOS VIVOS Local band playing forró, accordion and triangle-driven country music from Brazil.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $40–60. pac.uga.edu

DANISH STRING QUARTET The ensemble presents cornerstones of the quartet repertoire as well as its own colorful folk song arrangements. Pre-performance talk by Theresa Chafin held in Ramsey Hall at 6:45 p.m.

Normal Bar

Chronic Weekend. 7 p.m. (doors). $15. www.instagram.com/normal_ bar_athens

SMALL Atlanta punk trio fronted by comedian Samm Severin.

PERVERT Brilliantly wrecked, inner core-heavy rock.

WIEUCA Experimental outfit that fuses indie rock, psychedelia and trip hop.

DAVID BARBE PLUS Member of Mercyland and Sugar joins friends for a special set.

MULTIPLE MIGGS High-octane local hardcore band.

MCQQEEN Local noise-punk band with reverb-soaked vocals.

The Roadhouse

9 p.m. www.highheatrocks.com

HIGH HEAT Knoxville, TN-based band with a gritty garage-rock vibe.

VFW Post 2872 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/vfwpost2872

COUNTRY RIVER BAND Classic western and honky-tonk style country band. Line dancing during the band breaks.

Saturday 20

Akademia Brewing Co.

Only The Strong’s 3rd Annual Firefighter Benefit. 4–10 p.m. onlythe strong2023@gmail.com

THE BROKEN STRING BAND Americana band blending Western folk with indie rock.

FORMER SINNERS OF THE FUTURE Psych and garage rock band from Atlanta.

Athentic Brewing Co.

A Melody for Mental Health. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

ROOMMATE College students playing a medley of rock covers and originals.

Bishop Park

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

JAMES COOK Arty Ball Swing Band frontman plays a variety of music from the Great American Songbook. (8 a.m.)

TAKE3 Local jazz trio. (10 a.m.)

Boar’s Head Lounge 10 p.m. www.instagram.com/boars headlounge

CLASSIC CITY JUKEBOX Local rock and roll cover band.

Buvez

New Normal Fest. 5 p.m. (doors), 6 p.m. (show). $20, $35/twoday pass. www.instagram.com/ buevz_athens

PLAYYTIME Five-piece Atlanta hardcore band.

THE TARNISHED Hardcore band from Atlanta.

MOOD ROOM Sad and heavy, kind of dreamy music from Alabama.

APPREHEND In-your-face hardcore from Birmingham, AL.

THRONES Atlanta hardcore.

CRYPTORCHID New local blackened hardcore punk.

IXIAN Harsh blackened noise project by Daniel Shroyer.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Doobie Daze Pt. II. 8 p.m. FREE! www. flickertheatreandbar.com

TRIPLICATE Synth-rock group formerly known as Convince the Kid.

IRREPARABLE DAMAGE New experimental project between film composer Tom Hiel (Ableton loops, synths, keyboards) and songwriter Jay Gonzalez (guitars, keyboards, spoken word). First show!

BAD STRAPLES Local DJ who creates electronica-influenced sets.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $35 (adv.), $40.50. www.georgiatheatre. com

COREY SMITH A native of Jefferson, this country music artist is touring for his 10th album.

JUSTIN HOLT New-age country music artist from Alabama who is unapologetically honest in his songwriting.

Gyro Wrap 7 p.m. $5. www.gyrowrap.com

COWBOY KEROUAC Athens queer anarcho cowpunk.

TRIANGLE FIRE Local pizza punk with extra thick crust.

SANITY SYNDROME Atlanta hardcore punk band.

GRAVEYARD HOURS Metallic horror punk band from Atlanta.

Hendershot’s 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

DON CHAMBERS Longtime local favorite who delves into pastoral folk and experimental rock with equal passion.

DIM WATTS Psych-folk project led by Jim Willingham (Ham1).

Memorial Park AFMDS Contra Dance. 6:30 p.m. (lesson), 7–10 p.m. (music). FREE! (17 & under), $10–12. www.athens folk.org

MAX AND MAGGIE AND THE DRIVIN’ WHEELS Old-time string band playing music for a community contra dance. No. 3 Railroad Street

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

THE BRAMBLES An acoustic mix of rock, Americana and country.

Normal Bar

Chronic Weekend. 7 p.m. (doors). $15. www.instagram.com/normal_ bar_athens

ALL GODS New local band playing catchy, melodic post-punk.

TELEMARKET Driving, angular indie-rock band from Athens.

NIHILIST CHEERLEADER Raw riot grrrl-inspired punk that’s a pitchperfect blend of snotty and sunny, earnest and sardonic.

NUCLEAR TOURISM Skate punks playing surfy, garage-infused songs.

STOOGES Stooges cover band.

RUBBER UDDER Self-described weirdo experimental acid punk/ noise-grunge thing from Athens.

EYESORE Frenetic punk from Greenville, SC.

Nowhere Bar

9:30 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens

CREWS & CO. Atlanta rock trio. Paloma Park

Touch of Brews After-party. 6 p.m. $10. bit.ly/FourTwentyAthensGA

JULIA CATHERINE Melancholic acoustic singer-songwriter from Athens.

DIRE WOLF Local Grateful Dead cover band.

RAE AND THE RAGDOLLS Atlanta rock and rollers blending folky psychedelia and room rattling rock.

CANNON ROGERS & THE 420 UNIT Cannon Rogers leads a rotating cast of musicians in mixing fuzz and folk with an upbeat energy.

CAM AND HIS DAM JAM BAND Groovy jam band with roots in jazz, bluegrass and psychedelic funk.

Southern Brewing Co. 3rd Annual Athens Blues Brews & BBQ. 2 p.m. (doors), 3 p.m. (music). $15 (adv.), $20. bit.ly/ AthensBluesFest

BIG C & AJ Long-running Athens blues enthusiast Clarence “Big C” Cameron along with guitar shredder AJ Adams. (3 p.m.)

THE VIBRATONES Veterans of the Athens blues scene playing a mix of blues styles ranging from Chicago to Texas and West Coast swing. (3:40 p.m.)

THE ORIGINAL SCREW TOPS

Founded in 2012, this Athens band plays original blues as well as its own take on old-time classics. (4:35 p.m.)

TERRAPLANE BLUE Versatile trio performing originals, traditional blues tunes and blues rock songs. (5:25 p.m.)

FRANKIE’S BLUES MISSION

Gentlemen on a mission to present the blues, jazz, R&B and zydeco in the best of the African-American

tradition with all the energy they can muster. (6:25 p.m.)

RICK FOWLER BAND Athensbased blues rock group bringing an original yet familiar appeal to fans of ’60s and ’70s rock. (7:45 p.m.)

Spaceball Bazaar

Telescope + Synthesizer Symposium. 7 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ spaceball.bazaar

BERNTE Modular synth electronica with an abundance of lights and lasers.

Terrapin Beer Co.

Touch of Brews. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $30. www.touchofbrews.com/athens

END OF THE LINE Premiere Allman Brothers tribute band making a name for itself with a sound as classic and heavy as the original brothers themselves.

BIRD DOG JUBILEE Atlanta band seamlessly mixing tunes and balancing structured songs with improvisational jams.

THE ROCK AND ROLL PLAYHOUSE Kid-friendly band offering games, movement, stories and an opportunity to rock out during a special “Jambands Edition” set.

DIRE WOLF Grateful Dead tribute band.

MIKE MIZ Americana singersongwriter and guitarist based in Nashville.

JUSTIN SMITH Singer in End of the Line.

TREVOR CLARK Nashville-based and Chicago-raised songwriter with a borderless sound crossing bluegrass, rock, funk and folk.

WORKHORSES OF THE ENTERTAINMENT/RECREATION INDUS-

TRY Rob Keller, Ben Reynolds and William Tonks for a set of traditional folk, weepy country tunes, lonesome bluegrass and unplugged rock and roll.

White Tiger Gourmet White Tiger’s 17th Anniversary Party. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ WhiteTigerGourmetAthens

EVERGREEN Punky, upbeat band of high school students.

T. HARDY MORRIS Local singersongwriter and guitarist plays twangy, reflective folk-rock. Duo set.

THE RISHIS Psych-folk featuring members of The Olivia Tremor Control, Elf Power and The Apples in Stereo. work.shop

Nightshade Family Presents. 11 p.m.–5 a.m. $10. thenightshadefamily band@gmail.com

ROIJU Boston-based producer and DJ with sets ranging from fast jungle and driving polyrhythmic dub techno to slower downtempo, house and Miami bass/electro.

CURST Nightshade Family label head.

ELLIS G Athens DJ. ONIT Local rapper, producer and DJ formerly known as SHUD-I. TOMGORL DJ and stylist based between New York City and Miami.

Sunday 21

Bottleworks

ShellFest 3. 3–7 p.m. $75, $150 (VIP). www.instagram.com/shell_ to_shore

GENTLEMAN JESSE Atlantabased power-pop songwriter Jesse Smith specializes in garage-punk minimalism and tales of heartbreak.

ROSE HOTEL Atlanta-based songwriter Jordan Reynolds creates rousing psych-tinged folk rock that is equal parts tender and unyielding.

PARROTHEAD Local Jimmy Buffet punk cover band that stays living and dying in 3/4 time.

KLEZMER LOCAL 42 Local sevenpiece klezmer band specializing in Jewish and Romani music.

Buvez

New Normal Fest. 5 p.m. (doors), 6 p.m. (show). $20, $35/two-day pass. www.instagram.com/buevz_ athens

SNUKI Local hardcore punk band.

JOHNNY FALOON Deranged local band with hard-hitting songs and complex theatrics.

FISHBUG Local punk band back from a long hiatus.

LOS GARGOYLES Atlanta noise rock and post-punk band.

SPLIT SILK Noisy and cathartic post-hardcore led by Lucca Carver. DIS Dbeat trio.

SCHMUK New punk group fronted by Elizabeth Raps (Sex Cell).

Cali N Tito’s Eastside

5 p.m. FREE! www.thepgshow.com

THE PG SHOW Local kindie rock band plays kid-friendly tunes in celebration of its first EP.

The Classic Center Athens Beer Fest. 12 p.m. (VIP), 1 p.m. $45–85. www.classiccenter. com

DIRT ROAD REVIVAL A blend of soulful originals and timeless covers representing country, classic and Southern rock.

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

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

3 p.m. pac.uga.edu

JAKUB JÓZEF ORLINSKI The Polish countertenor and ensemble

Il Pomo d’Oro showcase rarely performed works from the 16th and 17th centuries by Monteverdi, Caccini, Frescobaldi, Cavalli, Strozzi and others. A pre-performance talk will be held in Ramsey Concert Hall at 2:15 p.m.

Oak House Distillery

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

THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ STOMPERS New Orleans style music played by members of The Dixieland Five. Rialto Club

5:30 p.m. (doors), 6:30 p.m. & 7:45 p.m. (two sets). $15 (adv.), $20. bit.ly/SegarJazzApril21

SEGAR JAZZ AFFAIR WXAG radio

DJ Dwain Segar curates a night of smooth jazz.

J. HENRY New Orleans native and saxophonist who has been dazzling audiences with his smooth jazz.

Tuesday 23

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. (doors). $21. www.40watt.com

SUN ROOM Surf rock band from southern California.

EASY HONEY Charleston, SC rock and roll band infused with singersongwriter folk roots and East Coast surf rock.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

7:30 p.m. (doors), 8:30 p.m. (show). $10. www.georgiatheatre.com

RAE & THE RAGDOLLS Atlanta rock and rollers blending folky psychedelia and room rattling rock.

FLORENCE CARDIGAN Local “reggae disco dreamy funk pop” trio. THE DOWNSTAIRS The youth gone wild.

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.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. pac. uga.edu

UGA WIND ENSEMBLE “Remixes & Mashups” features a variety of pieces including Holst’s “Suite in E-flat,” Steven Bryant’s “Suite Dream,” Gershwin’s “Preludes,” Bach’s “Menuet and Gigue” and Grantham’s “JS Dances.”

Normal Bar

7–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ normal.bar.7

OPEN MIC Try out a new tune or sit back and relax. Every Tuesday.

WUOG

Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org

BUICE Self-described Atlanta freakcore, conscious prog rock and skronk. Visit the station to watch live or tune in to 90.5 FM.

Wednesday 24

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. $20 (adv.). www.40watt.com

PRÓXIMA PARADA Indie soul group from San Luis Obispo, CA with sunny, mellow tunes.

OLIVER HAZARD Indie folk band from Waterville, OH.

BEN CHAPMAN Nashville-based songwriter with a soulful country blues style.

Creature Comforts Brewery

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

MARK PLEMMONS Talented local pianist. (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.

Georgia Theatre

6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $25. www.georgiatheatre.com

CHRIS LANE Multi-platinum artist with “a decidedly more country sound.”

Hugh Hodgson School of Music

Edge Hall. 3 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

STRING CHAMBER MUSIC UGA students perform.

Ramsey Hall

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

UGA MIDDLE EAST ENSEMBLE

An extension of the musicology/ ethnomusicology program at the Hugh Hodgson School of Music.

Red Line Athens

7 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/red line_athens

BURN KIT New Hampshire melodic punk.

ROSIE & THE RATDOGS Sludgy, hardcore, heavy-psych band based in Athens.

RUNNING RIOT Punk and powerpop from Atlanta. HERE BE MONSTERS Solo set of acoustic punk.

Down the Line

4/25 Big Band Athens (Hendershot’s)

4/25 Karaoke Night (Southern Brewing Co.)

4/25 Andy Frasco & The U.N., Dogs in a Pile (Georgia Theatre)

4/25 Jacket, New Weirdos, Villarreal (Flicker Theatre & Bar) f

music

threats & promises

The Electric Nature Heads Out on U.S. Tour

PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

FILL THIS OUT: You’re probably already planning on catching the new duo of Jay Gonzalez and Tom Heil named Irreparable Damage at Flicker Theatre & Bar on Saturday, Apr. 20, but here’s an additional heads up. Athens band Triplicate, formerly known as Convince The Kid, will celebrate the release of its new EP Falling Off that night as well. The record is to be released the day before. The four-song release is another entry into what I’ve been calling the new Big Pop sound happening in Athens. This has heavy shades of Imagine Dragons, 5 Seconds of Summer, Zayn, et al. Not one-to-one comparisons exactly, but it all resides in the same big tent. It took me a few listens for anything to really grab me, but I did wind up enjoying the third song, “Killer,” a bit more than the others. Its watery guitars and subdued Gene Loves Jezebel-ish vocals fit well together. Bad Staples are also on the bill this night. Find the EP over on Spotify, and for more information, please see facebook. com/convincethekid.

NAKED LUNCH: Michael Potter (Null Zone) has reached back into his archives again to deliver a set of The Electric Nature songs recorded circa 2009–2010. It’s titled Plastic Mind and runs eight tracks long. I can’t tell 100% if knowing he recorded all this on an old Dell laptop with an earbud microphone had any effect on my hearing of it, but it probably did. In any case, this collection once again makes the case for Potter being among the most creative minds to ever work in this town. Opening song “Junk” is a big groove of a song with samples of William S. Burroughs. A handful of these songs have appeared in other places, but you’ll do best to just listen to them here. This whole record is highly listenable and oddly invigorating. The beautiful drone “Dreaming” is worth the price of admission by itself, but other specific highlights are the electro-pop stylings of the title track and “Dumbstep.” This collection is released courtesy of Los Angeles label Already Dead Tapes and Records. In other news, Potter is currently on a huge U.S. tour that won’t wind up until May 19. Find this over at alreadydeadtapes.bandcamp. com.

THE INCREDIBLE STRING MAN:

Athens artist Handholder released a collection of demos last month as a benefit for Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. It’s named Memos, which I really like. These are, indeed, demo quality recordings with some done directly on a cell phone with an internal microphone. In any case, though, this is a very nice collection of sensitive tracks and delicate playing. Old Athens folks might notice a similarity, too, between “n2L” and Nuçi Phillips’ old project Koncack. The piano-based “Highwayhold” is a real charmer, too. Consider this entirely recommended even though I don’t normally do that sort of thing. Find this at hand holder.bandcamp.com.

Fire Education and Training. The brewery will celebrate the re-release of its brew The Irons as well. There are multiple raffle items to be given away from a fairly sizable list of sponsors, too, so take some spare bucks to participate. Featured entertainment includes the Broken String Band and more. Only The Strong is described as a “local nonprofit organization built by firefighters for firefighters and the community they protect.” For more information, please follow this badly-in-need-of-an-update URL, facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100089992414849.

HERE’S TO NEVER GROWING UP: Athens punk-ish band Hambear has a four-song live release out this month named Live At Market Hugs, which was recorded at the popular semi-regular Atlanta pop-up market. If you ever wondered what, say, Avril Lavigne fronting a screamo band who learned everything from some imaginary compilation named Now, That’s What I Call Third Wave Emo! sounded like, then this is for you. I want to feel like this project has potential, though, and I do appreciate the drums at the very beginning of the first song. Find this at hambear.bandcamp.com, and find out more about Market Hugs at instagram.com/ market_hugs.

LEFT OF THE DIAL: On Saturday, Apr. 20, Ciné will host a screening of the college radio documentary 35,000 Watts. The film traces the history and influence of college radio stations and the story is told by those who were, and are,

GET THE FIREHOSE: The third annual “Only The Strong” Firefighter’s Benefit will happen at Akademia Brewing Company on Saturday, Apr. 20 starting at 4 p.m. According to a press release, this year’s proceeds will be dedicated to The National Fallen Firefighters Association and Local

behind the microphone. I was informed by former WUOG 90.5 FM staffer Jennifer Griffith that the director interviewed a slew of Athens folks and former staffers back in 2022 during WUOG’s 50th birthday celebration. So you can expect to see staffers Mike Henry, Lee Echols and Arvell Poe, as well as the aforementioned Griffith. Athens luminaries include Michael Lachowski (Pylon), Vanessa Hay (Pylon, Pylon Reenactment Society) and Bob Hay (The Squalls), Mike Richmond (Love Tractor), and Bertis Downs (R.E.M./Athens, LLC). The film is described as a love letter to college radio. For more information please see athenscine.com and 35000watts.com. f

The Electric Nature

Come walk amongst the annuals, perennials, and trees

Nursery

• Events • Weddings • Birthday Parties • Classes

Opening Celebration, April 20th – 21st 9am–7pm Saturday, Noon–6pm Sunday

Featuring live music, food truck, free drinks, and free 5 minute massages

Come pot your own plants at our potting stations, Enjoy High Tea at Glenda’s Tea Room and visit our honey bees

10325 Double Bridge Rd. Winterville, GA 470-714-1800 • www.classiccityflowers.com

FREE CONCERTS: NO TICKETS REQUIRED

WED 4/17

HODGSON

Shared Concert: Wind Symphony & Symphonic Band THU 4/18

WED 4/24

Including the Consortium Premiere of “Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly” by UGA faculty Peter Van Zandt Lane. Free performance.

Celebrating UGA Faculty Gregory Broughton’s 35 years conducting this choir, and 53 years of the choir itself. Includes original works by UGA students. Free performance.

African American Choral Ensemble Middle East Music Ensemble

Featuring Special Guest Artist Ali Jihad Racy, Distinguished Professor of Ethnomusicology at UCLA from 1978 to 2021. Free performance.

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

TUESDAY, APRIL 23 at 7:30 p.m.

HODGSON HALL

uga symphony orchestra and combined choirs over 300 student musicians grant us peace ralph vaughan williams composed by

dona nobis pacem

friday, april 26 at 7:30 p.m.

hodgson concert hall

THEN IN MAY...CELEBRATE MUSICAL EXCELLENCE HERE IN ATHENS

chambermusicathens.org

chambermusicathens.org

Opening Concert: “History of Tango”

SUN 5/12, 3 p.m.

JP Jofre, bandoneon Itamar Zorman, violin

A celebration of the history of tango, including fiery and colorful chamber works by Luigi Boccherini and Manuel De Falla plus original compositions by JP Jofre.

“From Opera to Hip-Hop: A Celebration of American Voices”

TUE 5/14, 7:30 p.m.

MORTON THEATRE 195 W WASHINGTON ST. RAMSEY HALL

Joshua Stewart, tenor; Squallé and Lemuel LaRoche

This concert is free. Donations accepted by venue.

If you have a pond near your home or live along a stream, then you’re probably very familiar with the songs of our amphibious neighbors that strike up a chorus throughout the spring and summer. Although they’re not always easy to spot, frog species can be identified by these unique calls.

FrogWatch USA is a citizen science program that was established in 1998 to train individuals on how to identify frog calls and help monitor frog populations by adding local data to a national database. The data is used to track rare and invasive species in addition to shifts in species diversity, range

around is that it’s being able to hang out with a like-minded set of people that enjoy being out in nature and enjoy being able to obviously go and look for the frogs. But we talk about other topics, environmental or just points of interest that we have. So there’s become a social aspect as well as actually being able to do something that contributes to science and helping out things here,” says Mowbray.

Over the last 10 years of collecting data within Athens-Clarke County, Mowbray says that they’ve been able to track the arrival of new frog species. It has yet to be a concern, but there are invasive species from outside of Georgia that could be cause for alarm. Monitoring on a regular basis throughout the whole season helps to identify threats early.

and seasonal timing. All of this information then helps to inform the development of environmental protection and amphibian conservation strategies.

This year the Athens chapter, run by the Sandy Creek Nature Center under the Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services Department, celebrates 10 years of joining the national conservation efforts. The monitoring season runs February through August, with a formal in-person training session taking place in January each year. The training session covers the basic procedures for monitoring and guides participants in how to identify the various frog calls.

However, volunteers can begin monitoring at any point during the season. Sandy Creek Nature Center naturalist Kate Mowbray says that a virtual training is available, then volunteers are encouraged to join one of the weekly monitoring group outings on site at the nature center. Volunteers are asked to monitor at least once a month to contribute to the pool of local data. Individuals can monitor independently at their own sites, like a pond or somewhere with water access, but the group setting helps to reinforce the training. It also provides a social opportunity within the community.

“I think for our group, what has made a big difference in the people that have stuck

As both prey and predator, frogs and toads are an important part of the wetland ecosystem. Their presence is often considered an indicator of environmental health, and the FrogWatch community states that over 2,000 amphibian species are currently facing extinction. This species decline may also be an alarm for deteriorating wetland health, and data like that collected in the FrogWatch program can help scientists better understand what is happening environmentally around the U.S.

Outside of the FrogWatch program, the Sandy Creek Nature Center offers other activities and programs for adults. The Adopt-a-Stream workshop is a similar citizen science program that involves training and group or individual monitoring. Other workshops are available geared towards people who may lead educational programs like scout leaders or teachers.

The nature center’s Sky Center has an active planetarium program open to all ages. Mowbray says the center has hosted an adult-oriented “mindfulness” planetarium event that they hope to continue. The next “Journey Through the Stars” event explores the spring skies on Apr. 20 at 10 a.m. Mowbray says one of the more popular events is Snake Day, which will be coming soon in May. Overall there are a variety of activities, programs and workshops available that span ages and interests in the natural world.

To learn more about FrogWatch USA, visit akronzoo.org/frogwatch. The Akron Zoo in Ohio was appointed in 2022 as the managing organization of the overall program. To learn more about the local chapter or volunteer, email kate.mowbray@accgov. com or call the Sandy Creek Nature Center and ask to speak with Kate. f

Green Tree Frog

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 June 15, Sept. 15, Dec. 15 and Mar. 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

BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJ-

ECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals residing in Georgia to develop an art exhibition to be on display for 6–8 weeks at the LHAC. A stipend of $1500 is provided. www.accgov.com/9799/

ArtistCurator

CALL FOR ART (Steffen Thomas Museum of Art) Seeking submissions for the juried exhibition “Queer Perspectives.” Open to Georgia-based, LGBTQ+ identifying artists of all visual media,

both emerging and professional. Submission deadline May 13. Exhibition runs August–December. www.steffenthomas.org

CALL FOR ART (Winterville Cultural Center Gallery) Seeking artwork for the gallery’s grand opening exhibitions, “Pen, Pencil, Paper and Ink” (submissions due Apr. 23) and “New Beginnings: Works About A New Beginning” (submissions due Apr. 27). www.wintervilleccgallery. com

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Downtown Athens) Seeking 10 or more artists to participate in the Twilight Artist Market. Email for application form. Apr. 26, 3–9 p.m. and Apr. 27, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. $60. camillehayes design@gmail.com

CALL FOR COLLECTORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The LHAC’s “Collections from our Community” series features unique collections of objects found in the closets, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. Email if interested in displaying your collection. shelby.little@ accgov.com

CALL FOR EXHIBITION PROPOSALS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Artists, artist groups and curators can submit original exhibition proposals for consideration in the arts center’s gallery schedule. Arts can

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. Open Third Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Through May by appointment.

ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) The MFA Exit Show “Sharpening a Screw” presents works by nine artists. MFA Speaks Apr. 24, 6 p.m. Through May 9.

ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) Curated by Jon Vogt and Christina Habibi, “Parameter” includes the works of Candace Hicks, Claude-Gerard Jean and Timothy McCool. Opening Reception Apr. 20, 6–8 p.m. Through May 19.

ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) Christina Habibi shares a collection of large abstract paintings incorporating architectural and structure elements juxtaposed with single words. Through Apr. 25.

BOGUE GALLERY AT ACC LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) The 38th annual “Georgia Artists with DisAbilities Art Show and Tour” presents over 50 works by members of GAWD ranging from pottery, painting and sculpture to wood carving, photography and weaving. Through Apr. 21.

CIRCLE GALLERY AT UGA COLLEGE OF ENVIRONMENT & DESIGN (Jackson Street Building) Atlanta artist and National Geographic photographer Peter Essick presents “Work in Progress,” a collection of images offering a bird’s eye view of construction sites. Closing Reception Apr. 17, 4:30 p.m.

DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) The BFA Exit Show “Liminal” features the works of 40 student artists graduating this semester. Opening Reception for the second installment held Apr. 19, 6–8 p.m. • On view in the C-U-B-E Gallery, “Embodied Making as Collective Publishing: The Body and Hanzi” documents a workshop focused on collaborative, wearable posters. Through Apr. 19.

EARTH FARE (1689 S. Lumpkin St.) Susan Pelham’s collages are inspired by Magic Realism, Surrealism, fables and nursery rhymes. Through April.

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Whimsical works by Jill Carnes and bright geometric paintings by Hannah Jones. Through April.

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

also submit images of their work for consideration in larger group or themed shows. Deadline Apr. 20, 11:59 p.m.. https://www.accgov. com/6657/Exhibition-ProposalForm

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 ARTISTS (Online) JOKERJOKERtv is actively accepting proposals for collaboration from visual, musical and video artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit music videos, short films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www. jokerjokertv.com/submit

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

PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS

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

Classes

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

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

BLACKSMITHING CLASSES

(Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of classes include “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, May 24 or July 26), “Forge a Tomahawk” (May 4 or July 25), “Forge a Firepoker with Decorative Handle” (May 11 or June 14), and “Forge a Spear” (May 31 or July 27). Classes run 10

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. • Mason Pearson presents skateboard photography alongside wall-mounted lamps incorporating skateboards and stained glass by Corwin Weik of NiwRoc Studio. Closing reception Apr. 24. Currently on view through April. JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Oil paintings by Joseph Leone. Through May.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) The 49th annual Juried Exhibition features 160 works by 111 local artists. Artist Talks held Apr. 18 and 25, 6 p.m. Through May 4. • “Linnentown Then and Now: Paintings by Caroline Coleman” is an exhibition of portraits telling the story of her family and other Linnentown community members. Reception Apr. 9, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view through May 10. • The Window Works series presents a site-specific artwork by Atlanta artist Michael Reese that questions the perception of the Black Body against cyanotype photography popular with architectural blueprints. Through spring 2025. • Guest curated by Lizzie Zucker Saltz, “RESCUE: Waste and Redemption” presents 22 artists who transform industrial byproducts into artworks or craft objects. Opening reception Apr. 9, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view June 15. • Collections from our Community presents Nate Mitchell’s 45 record box collection. Listening party Apr. 16, 6 p.m. On view Apr. 13–June 22.

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. Through May. • Photographer Emily Jenkins Followill shares images that capture an appreciation for the beauty of the past and an eye for the present in “Enhancing History: The Beauty of Land & Spaces in the South.” Through May 10.

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

“Southeastern Pastel Society: All About Pastels” is a juried members exhibition featuring works from across the region. Opening Reception Apr. 20, 5–7 p.m. Through June 1. • “Perspective: A Journey into Mental Health” is a solo exhibition by Bobbi Johnson. Opening Reception Apr. 20, 5–7 p.m.

Through June 1.

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

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

a.m.–5 p.m. www.greenhowhand made.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.winterville center.com

COOKING CLASSES (Athens Cooks) “Pinta Chef’s Table” with chef Alejandro Ortiz will be held Apr. 26, 6–8 p.m. $125. “Sushi Basics” will he held May 2, 6–8 p.m. $103. “Chinese Dumplings” will be held May 8, 6–8 p.m. $103. “Making Brunch, Not so Basic” will be held May 25, 9–11 a.m. $75. Register online. www.athenscooks.com

ONLINE CLASSES (Elevate Online Studio) Michelle Arington teaches a variety of classes. “Nia Low-Impact Cardio Dance Fitness” held Apr. 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m. $25. “Core Integrity Pilates” held Apr. 25, 9–10 a.m. $25. “Yamuna Body Rolling” held Apr. 25, 5:30–6:30 p.m. $25. www. elevateonlinestudio.com

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

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. qpr@nuci.org, www.nuci.org/qpr

SUPPLY CHAIN AND WELDING

TRAINING CLASSES (Athens Career Center) Goodwill of North

Georgia is offering no-cost job training and support programs. Both programs begin in April. www. goodwillng.org

TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS

CLASSES (Live Oak Martial Arts)

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

WINE CLASSES (J’s Bottle Shop Tasting Room) “Wine 201: Introduction to Wines of France, Italy & Spain.” Apr. 25, May 2 & May 9, 6:30–8 p.m. $80. www.pinta schoolofwine.com

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

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

Help Out

ADOPT-A-MOM (Athens, GA) The Ark’s 10th annual Adopt-a-Mom distributes flower bouquets and cards to nursing home patients and single mothers. Donate $25 to “adopt a mom” for Mother’s Day. Proceeds also benefit The Ark’s Single Working Mother’s Fund. Through May 31. www.athensark. org/adopt-a-mom

REVOLUTION THERAPY AND YOGA (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1400) Manda McKay presents “Dewdrops and Clouds,” a collection of giclee prints of her oil paintings. Reception Apr. 18, 6–8 p.m.

THE ROOK & PAWN (294 W. Washington St.) Painted wood cutouts by Marisa Mustard. Through Apr. 15. • “Serenade” features works by over 20 artists including Keith P. Rein, Sierra Kirsche, Kendall Rogers, Jesse Raven and Delaney Dusch. Opening Reception Apr. 17, 6–9 p.m. Through June. STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave) Judy Bolton Jarrett presents “ART and SOUL,” a collection of paintings depicting landscapes and flowers in textured acrylics as well as mixed media works featuring collage techniques. Closing reception Apr. 28, 2–4 p.m.

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.

TIF SIGFRIDS (393 N. Finley St.) “Bedroom Furniture” includes artwork by Austin Eddy, Carol John, Albert Mertz, Jorge Pardo and Adrianne Rubenstein.

TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Holly V. Hutch presents a pop-up solo show. Apr. 18, 6–9 p.m.

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. Through July 3.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS CLEMENTS

GALLERY (780 Timothy Rd.) “The Three Graces” is a collaborative art exhibit by Elizabeth Bishop-Martin, Starr Ramsey Helms and Kim Kendall. Artist talk with Bishop-Martin Apr. 21, 12 p.m. Reception Apr. 28, 12–2 p.m. Currently on view June 23.

WINTERVILLE LIBRARY (115 Marigold Ln., Winterville) The 2024 Marigold Festival Art Show features this year’s winning festival artwork by Mary Ann Cox as well as other entries from the call for art. Opening Reception Apr. 20, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Through April.

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

ATHENS FEED MY STARVING

CHILDREN (Stegeman Coliseum)

Seeking 900 volunteers to pack a total of 175,000 meals. Sign up for two-hour shifts. Event held Apr. 19–21. give.fmsc.org/athens

SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS

(Sandy Creek Nature Center)

Sandy Creek Nature Center, Inc., is seeking new members for its board of directors. Brochures and applications are available online. scncinc@gmail.com, www.sandy creeknaturecenterinc.org/boardmembers

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

BLACKSMITH SUMMER CAMP (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks)

Ages 13 and up can learn basic blacksmithing skills through different hands-on projects like making fire pokers, tomahawks, scrolls, hooks and more. Materials, fuel and tools are included. July 8–12, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $525. www.greenhow handmade.com/blacksmith-classes

BRELLA ACTIVITIES (‘BRELLA STUDIO) After-school art lessons for ages 6–11 include drawing and mixed media activities and are held Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Family Playgroups are for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Check website for descriptions and meeting times. www.brellastudio.com/events

FARM CAMP (Sweet Olive Farm) This all-outdoor camp for ages 6–12 includes caring for and interacting with the animals, creek time in the woods, outdoor crafts, games, music, art-making, writing and exploring the farm. Mondays–Fridays, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. during the summer. Register online. www. sweetolivefarm.org

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

LEARN TO SWIM (Multiple Locations) The ACC Leisure Services Department offers swim lessons for children ages 3 and up at Heard Park, Lay Park, Memorial Park and Rocksprings Park including “Swim School” and “Parent/Tot Swim School.” $33 (residents), $50 (non-residents). The department’s Kinderswim program is offered to five-year-olds at no cost. www.acc gov.com/myrec

LIBRARY STORYTIMES (ACC Library) Storytime for preschool aged children and their caregivers is offered every Tuesday and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. www.athens library.org

LUTHEROAD DAYCAMP (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) Camp for rising 1st–6th graders runs June 24–27, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. and June 28, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www.holycrossathens.com/ lutheroad

NATURE AND FARM SUMMER

CAMPS (Foxfire Woods and Farm)

Offering three weeks of outdoor summer camp, including a half-day

camp for preschoolers ages 3.5–6. Themes include survival skills, kinetics and simple machines, and outdoor exploration. www.foxfire woodsandfarm.com

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. Now registering. www. accgov.com/myrec

TREEHOUSE SUMMER CAMPS

(Treehouse Kid & Craft) Camps are offered in a variety of themes including “Camp Swiftie,” “Mouse Palace,” “Craft Inc. Business,” “Crafty Carnival,” “Mini Museum” and more. Visit the website for details and to register. www.treehousekidandcraft.com

UGA SUMMER ART CAMP (Lamar Dodd School of Art) High school students with a passion for the arts are invited to participate in a fourday camp featuring drawing, painting, printmaking and photography. June 24–27. summerartcamp@ uga.edu, art.uga.edu/programs/ community-programs/ugasummer-art-camp

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL (Athens

First United Methodist Church) Kids entering grades K-5 in the fall can participate in a summer camp exploring faith and the deep blue sea through various games, music, snacks and activities. June 3–6, 9 a.m.–12:25 p.m. www.athensfirstum.org/scuba

WILD EARTH CAMP (Piedmont Preserve) Wild Earth Camp offers spring break camp (Apr. 1–5), summer camps and homeschool programs for ages 4–13. Participants explore the natural environment through games, storytelling, free play and teaching earth skills. Register online. www.wildearth camp.org

Support Groups

ACA ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS AND DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) This support group meets weekly. Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. annetteanelson@gmail.com

AL-ANON 12 STEP (Multiple Locations) Recovery for people affected by someone else’s drinking. Free daytime and evening meetings are held several times throughout the week in Athens. Tuesday meetings, 1:30–2:30 p.m., are held at Watkinsville United Methodist Church. www.ga-al-anon.org

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

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

BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP (St. Mary’s Hospital, 5th Floor Therapy Room) This support group for survivors of traumatic head injury, their families, friends and caregivers offers friendship, information about resources and opportunities

for advocacy. Every third Monday, 4:30–6 p.m. Contact Floretta Johnson, 706-353-1892, floretta. johnson@stmarysathens.org

NAMI FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

(Oconee Presbyterian Church)

Peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Second Monday of the month, 6:30–8 p.m. 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

POLYAMORY SUPPORT GROUP

(Revolution Therapy and Yoga)

This open support group for adults practicing or considering polyamory or nonmonogamy discusses navigating jealousy, polysaturation, relationships with metamours and polyamorous parenting. Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.com

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

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

ATHENS VEGAN CHEF CHALLENGE (Multiple Locations) This monthlong challenge hosted by Vegan Outreach and Farm of the Free encourages diners to try featured vegan menu items and vote on their favorites. Visit website for participating restaurants. Through April. www. veganchefchallenge.org/Athens

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.diamondhillfarm athens.com

INTERNATIONAL COMPOST AWARENESS WEEK (Multiple Locations) Various compost

workshops, giveaways, sales and games will be held in celebration of ICAW. Check website for schedule of events. May 5–11. www.accgov. com/6542/International-CompostAwareness-Week

MUSIC & MOVIE SWAP (Oconee Co. Library) Buy, sell and trade DVDs, Blu-rays, 4K movies, records, tapes and CDs. Reserve a table by email. Swap held May 4, 4–8 p.m. jmitchell@athenslibrary. org

POP UP BOOK SALE (Oglethorpe County Library) The Friends of the Oglethorpe Country Library are hosting a sale of books, DVDs, CDs and more, with most items $1 or less. Special topic sale tables include history and travel (Apr. 15–20), romance (Apr. 22–27), Mother’s Day and family (Apr. 29–May 4) and the environment (Apr. 22). Sale runs during operating hours through May 4. www.oglethorpefol.org

PRESERVATION AWARDS (Athens, GA) Nominations for the 55th annual Historic Athens Preservation Awards are now open. The awards recognize buildings and projects making outstanding contributions to the preservation and restoration of Historic Athens’ heritage. Deadline Apr. 17. bit.ly/55awards

RABBIT BOX THEMES (Athens, GA)

Seeking storytellers to share true short stories on stage. Upcoming themes include “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

SEEKING COMMUNITY INPUT (Athens, GA) ACCGov seeks input on desired growth and future land use planning. A series of eight

public input events will be held now through Apr. 18. Additionally, community members can fill out the online survey. www.accgov. com/compplan

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

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

SPRING TIRE ROUND-UP (ACC Landfill and CHaRM) Bring unwanted tires to dispose of at no charge. Limited to six tires per person. May 20–25. www.accgov. com/178/Solid-Waste

TORRANCE FESTIVAL OF IDEAS (Online) Commemorate 40 years since the founding of UGA’s Torrance Center for Creativity with three days of innovative and inspiring discussions on creativity and learning. View schedule of speakers and topics online. Apr. 23–25, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. www.tinyurl. com/2024ideasfest

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

VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE (Athens, GA) The voter registration deadline for the May 21 General Primary/Nonpartisan Election is Apr. 22. Verify voting status, change your name or address, or register to vote online. www.mvp. sos.ga.gov f

A closing reception for the 2024 Green Life Exhibition will be held at the Lyndon House Arts Center on Apr. 25 from 4-6 p.m. Pictured above is “No One is Too Small to Make a Difference” by Katyal Bagayogo-Zeltner of Double Helix Steam School.

‘Rescue: Waste and Redemption’

ARTISTS TURN TRASH INTO TREASURE

By Jessica Smith arts@flagpole.com

A showcase of salvaged materials transformed into aesthetic objects, “Rescue: Waste and Redemption” explores the inventive ways through which artists have rescued difficult or impossible to recycle materials from their fate in landfills or as pollutants. Currently on view at the Lyndon House Arts Center, this thoughtful, investigative exhibition demonstrates how the arts can be used to engage and educate viewers on real-world environmental issues.

“Rescue: Waste and Redemption” was guest-curated by Lizzie Zucker Saltz, a freelancer best known for founding the Athens Institute for Contemporary Art in 2001, where she oversaw nearly 50 exhibitions across the following decade as the gallery’s artistic director. In the past, she has also worked for environmental nonprofits, including the Athens Land Trust and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. In recent years, Zucker Saltz’s creative practice has expanded from graphic design to fabric design under Sugar Und Salt Designs, a small business dedicated to diverting clothing from landfills by revitalizing garments with bleaching and dyeing techniques as well as other alterations.

“Back in 2012 I curated an exhibit at ATHICA called ‘Upcycle,’ which focused on recyclable items for the most part,” says Zucker Saltz. “I felt that a decade was enough time to revisit the topic, but this time I wanted to take it up a notch and focus on artists who take on the difficult or non-recyclable items that need rescuing.”

Zucker Saltz selected a total of 22 artists from a pool of 90 works proposed through a public call for submissions. At the forefront of “Rescue: Waste and Redemption” is an emphasis on what Zucker Saltz refers to as material alchemy, or the ability of an artist to transform industrial byproducts into meaningful artworks or craft objects. The exhibition is accompanied by a very detailed 28-page catalog that contextualizes each work with well-researched statistics and reflections on consumer practices, environmental impacts and forward-thinking potential solutions.

“I was looking to represent a variety of problematic materials,” says Zucker Saltz. “And I was looking for strong work that could represent material concerns such as plastic, glass, rubber, metal, etc. The exercise of focusing on the artwork’s materiality brings out a different way of looking and an awareness of how things came into being.”

Columbia, SC artist Susan Lenz’s “Mandala CLX” consists of expired COVID-19 Rapid Tests hand-stitched in

a bullseye-like pattern to a section of a soft pink vintage crib quilt. The piece recalls how domestic spaces were filled with anxiety and illness at the height of the pandemic, while also drawing attention to the un-recycled hard plastics of medical waste.

Similarly combining textile crafts of yesteryear with the single-use plastics of today, Adah Bennion’s “Returning Star Quilt” is a seven-foot quilted pattern sewn from polyethylene “Thank You” shopping bags. Visible messages that encourage users to recycle the bags at participating locations highlight the performative greenwashing of businesses that absolve themselves of guilt by transferring the responsibility onto consumers.

Decatur artist Lisa Schnellinger is the owner of Fused Light Studio, the largest facility in Georgia specializing in kiln-formed glass. Her “Blue Flow” series, fused from blue gin and wine bottles, exemplifies how salvaged hard-to-recycle glass can be re-fired into textural abstract works of art.

Diverting thousands of used inner tubes from the landfill, Atlanta artist Gregor Turk’s “Nomadic Monument: Mini-Conveyor,” “Rubber Stool” and “Ruched Egg” sculptures are wrapped in plump black ribbons of used inner tubes. Here, a lowly material is repurposed into an unusual, striking surface.

In addition to the aforementioned artists, the exhibition includes works by Paul Blake, Heather Bird Harris, Lisa Freeman, Casey McGuire, Larry Millard, Zachary Naylor, Johanna Norry, Emily Peters, Pilar, Paula Reynaldi, Nell Ruby, Lenore Solmo, Kelly Thompson, Jon Vogt, Michael Webster, Mathew White, Kelsey Wishik and Joni Younkins-Herzog.

“I hope [viewers] gain a heightened awareness of how stuff is being made that is inherently polluting, in contrast

to how it could be made so much better with a circular model in mind,” says Zucker Saltz. “Can it be taken apart, can those parts be recycled? How can I reduce the landfill in my town? Artwork can help viewers see their world more clearly by distilling images down in a way that can focus our understanding.”

“Rescue: Waste and Redemption” will remain on view through June 15. Organized by Andrea Trombetta and Paula Reynaldi, a Rescue Fashion Show will highlight designs by Emily Peters, Kate Windley and Zucker Saltz— as well as music by Jon Vogt—on May 23 at 6 p.m.

While at the Lyndon House Arts Center, be sure to also visit the Green Life Exhibition currently on view in the North Gallery. Held in conjunction with the Athens-Clarke County Green Life Awards, this annual juried art show is designed for K-12 students to explore environmental education and sustainability through painting, drawing, sculpture, photography and poetry. This year’s theme challenged students to create artwork in response to the prompt “Climate Champions: The Climate is Changing, How Can We?” A closing reception for the Green Life Exhibition will be held Apr. 25 at 4 p.m. f

Susan Lenz in “Rescue: Waste and Redemption”

“I don’t know what that other frog is talking about. It’s easy being Green!”

- Sandy The Frog

Going green is simple at Sandy Creek Nature Center: Interactive Exhibits Live Animals

Woodland Trails

Nat re Playsca e And More!

One pill. Once a day. Peace of mind. PrEP can help prevent HIV.

GeorgiaProject10.com

Abuoyant ring is tossed into a boundless sea. The winds blow the ring this way and that, until after a hundred rolling years a tortoise, awakened from her century long slumber, breaks the surface, emerging within the center of the ring. Without realizing, she takes a moment to feel the sun on her scaly face before sinking back into the depths.

The chances of the tortoise sticking her head through the ring, according to the Buddha, is the chance that a sentient being is born a human on our planet. It may seem absurd, but consider: Ants on this planet outnumber humans by a magnitude of millions. That is to say nothing of the billions of microorganisms actively inhabiting each of us. Each one of us is exceedingly lucky to have been born in the human position, where we have unlimited ability to alter the world around us for better or worse.

I say this not in an attempt to convert (believe me, this town has more than its fair share of evangelists), but only in a vain attempt to replicate for myself a minute amount of the wonder evoked by Bob Ambrose’s new book of poetry, Between Birdsong and Boulder, published in March by Kelsay Books

Through the eyes of Gaia, the Ancient Greek personification of Mother Earth, Ambrose takes the reader on a journey that’s bounds could not possibly be any wider, from the beginning of the whole thing, through the eons, the ages and the timid beginnings of life on Earth, to the present, where it all hangs in the balance. He imagines Gaia as a living entity, an unimaginably complex system of interconnected organic and inorganic processes that serves something well beyond human.

of its pages, but Ambrose sends them far in wide in space and time.

Throughout Between Birdsong and Boulder, Ambrose touches on the work of naturalist and romantic poets of all ages: Whitman, Dickinson, Yeats and Frost all leave their mark, subtly, on the pages.

There are also a number of Biblical allusions, but they’re refreshingly interpreted. Creation myths are deeply ingrained in almost every culture, and Ambrose approaches the subject in a manner free from dogma, as more of a marvelous story than an objective truth.

As a retired environmental engineer with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Ambrose drew from his passion for the natural world and his poetic abilities to create the volume. Ambrose is also a frequent participant in Athens Word of Mouth, where he workshopped his poems individually with a trusted group of colleagues.

His book is a short read, but sublimely affecting, and as you dig deeper into it you begin to catch on to a sort of rhythm, entranced not as much by the words as in the space between them, not so much the guideposts as the horizon beyond, not so much the pages as the insect crawling on it…

A dog may bark, or a bird may chirp. A pinecone may not fall far from you, while you sit on a bench reading this book of poetry. These events are as much a part of the themes of the poems as the words themselves, and should be welcomed. It is a rare book that expands its world outside

“I do not take the days of creation to be literal days, nor as sequential ages,” Ambrose said. “Rather, I see them as overlapping strokes in a vast and complicated tapestry of continuing creation. The creation story in Genesis 1 was written in verse with the cosmological understanding of its time. It conveys a timeless sense of awe, reverence and thanks.”

Awe, reverence and thanks are the operative words when it comes to Birdsong and Boulder, allowing the reader’s mind to see, if briefly, time as it is seen by Gaia, where the creation of boulders become as ephemeral as birdsong. I don’t believe it’s presumptuous to say that the ideal way to experience Birdsong and Boulder is surrounded by any sort of humming, flying creatures or small ground mammals, while digging your bare feet contently into cool, native ground cover. If that isn’t possible, just get somewhere where you can see the sky, and feel the hum of Spaceship Earth.

Ambrose will do a featured reading of “A Brief Tour of Deep Time” at Athens Word of Mouth at The Globe on May 1 at 7 p.m. He will also offer a reading and book signing at Avid Bookshop

at 7 p.m. f

Please join us for the 2024 Green Life Awards Ceremony, April 24 at 6 PM, in the Conservatory of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.

This event honors organizations and individuals who go above and beyond in creating a more sustainable tomorrow for us all.

ALL ARE WELCOME!

Athens Land Trust

Residential Sustainability Partners of the Year

Jeremy Field, Southern Sustainability Services; Carey Ritzler, Southern Alliance for Clean Energy; Walter Smith, Smith Heating and Air Volunteer of the Year

Ce’toura Neal

Urban Agriculture Partner of the Year:

UGA College of Environment & Design

ACC Transit Transit Titan

Betsy Bean of Boom Magazine

Upper Oconee Watershed Network

Unsung Hero Award

Peter Norris

Keep Athens Clarke-County Beautiful

Restaurant Section

One of our core values is sustainability. We are constantly striving to provide you with safe, quality products, made responsibly, and designed to last. We feature Common Good for refillable, safe household chemicals - bring your own or use our containers (we LOVE Common Good and use it in the store). In our kitchen, we source local and organic ingredients, and we are proud to say we have completely eliminated seed oils, only using olive oil, avocado oil and butter in our food. Let us help you green-up your day!

Staying Alive

HOW TO KEEP YOUR NEW PLANTS FROM DYING

By Erin France news@flagpole.com

April is the month for spring plant sales in Athens. Whether you’re buying tomato starts from a friendly neighbor or collecting vibrant coleus from University of Georgia Trial Gardens, now that you’ve got the plant home, what do you do? Here’s a quick checklist of what to prioritize when caring for your new plant prizes.

REPOTTING OR TRANSPLANTING: With some exceptions, every new addition should get repotted or transplanted. Annuals, especially warm-weather veggies like tomatoes, should go in the ground in the next two or three weeks. Besides needing extra nutrients, seedlings also can become root-bound if stuck in their containers. Roots circle over themselves as the plant tries to out-compete itself for the last bit of nutrients. You can cut through some of the roots and detangle them slightly as if finger-brushing your bed-head hair, but root-bound plants generally are less healthy and produce less than others. Repotting large additions,

a weed. If you’re planting in the ground, be sure to get a soil test ($8) done to address any pH or nutrient issues you might have. If you live in an old house with the possibility of lead paint, you might want to get a heavy metals test ($30) completed before eating any homegrown produce. Soil tests are available at the Athens-Clarke County Extension office at 275 Cleveland Road during business hours. Master gardeners generally are available at most local Saturday farmer’s markets to answer specific growing questions.

WATER: Most plants in most containers don’t need water every day. Generally, it’s better to let them dry out a bit before giving your plant a long drink. Stick your finger into the soil up to your first knuckle. If the soil is wet day after day, you may be over-watering. Container plants will dry out faster than in-ground plants. Plants in clay pots will dry out faster than plants in plastic or ceramic pots. Instead of worrying about when to water each pot, I stick dry-preferring Mediterranean herbs like lavender and thyme in clay pots, and more tender herbs like sorrel in plastic. Floppy, dehydrated sorrel leaves are the warning flag to water now before anything crisps to death.

These spring starts should be transplanted into their summer home. With a little soil, water and fertilizer they’ll be ready to harvest in a few weeks.

like shrubs and trees, gives me a chance to get those plants out of the standard black nursery pots. Black pots and trays absorb the sun’s heat in the winter and give warmweather winners like roses and hostas a leg-up on growing in winter greenhouse conditions. Keeping your temperate finds happy in the black nursery pots becomes much harder in the summer when staving off 100 degree days. Save the black nursery pots for the tropicals like jade plants, succulents and lemongrass that seem to really like the additional heat.

SOIL: If you’re buying bagged soil, be prepared to pay about $10–12 a bag for the decent stuff. You can mix in some of the lower priced bags to help your budget, but don’t buy the $1.50 bag and think you’ll be rolling in bounty. You will not. If you’ve got a larger garden project and are buying by the square yard, price also is something to consider. The lowest priced compost I ever bought by the truckload wouldn’t even grow

By Bonita Applebum advice@flagpole.com

I don’t ever want to be seen as petty. And believe me, I had to work to gain that mindset after a lifetime of being the type who doesn’t let anything go. It was a reaction to feeling powerless—I had to do something to make my hater feel like they’d lost. I would tell every single person we knew in common that they’d done whatever horrible thing, thinking it made them look bad, only to realize a decade later that it just made me look gossipy and bitter. Half the time it still didn’t help because I had yet to learn the power of forgiveness and moving on. Something about that anger was energizing as well—that’s how I first got into running, actually. For a long time, I channeled my rage into becoming a better runner, and it worked. I eventually cut out intervals and got my 5Ks down

expressed pride in my work. Everything was bad, so the good stuff couldn’t possibly be actually good, right?

Healing is like exercise: For weeks you are wobbling through your intervals and hoping that no one sees you stopping to breathe, until one day you finally notice that you just crushed 3.2 miles in half an hour. I genuinely can’t remember when I noticed that I was healing. I just started choosing what to stress out about, and I was more keen to find solutions for my problems than wallow in the misery of them. I started making moves towards my goals instead of just believing that I was not meant to achieve them. I stopped holding grudges, and I stopped requiring perpetrators to participate in my healing from the hurt they caused. It’s not about them; it’s about me, you know? Good people will listen and atone for their transgressions, and I don’t want to be around the people who wouldn’t.

FERTILIZER: Most non-organic fertilizers have some form of petro-chemicals in them. If you don’t care, that’s fine! If you care, look for the OMRI mark (that’s Organic Materials Review Institute) on the product. There are a lot of fertilizers touting labels of “natural” or “environmentally friendly” that are not. The OMRI label helps weed out most greenwashing without having to extensively investigate every option. Most farmers and growers I know prefer small amounts of fertilizer over a longer period, starting with a drink of fertilizer just before or after moving the plant to its long- or medium-term home. It gives the plant a little extra boost at a time when conditions are changing, and it could sustain some cuts to leaves or roots. After that, I’d suggest a little fertilizer when the plant starts flowering, and then a few weeks later when it first starts fruiting. I like fish fertilizer the best (Neptune’s Harvest is my favorite), though it is stinky, and the dogs try to lick the watered plants when I turn my back. Fish fertilizer contains smaller amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium than other options, resulting in less nutrients leaching into the surrounding environment. f

I was putting my rage somewhere besides in my own head, but I still wasn’t actually dealing with anything. And it wasn’t just anger and resentment that had a hold on me, I was also incredibly depressed. I genuinely believed that bad things happened to me because that was my lot in the world, that I was somehow put on Earth to lose and to be treated poorly. I learned about the love lives of the ugliest fascist dictators in history, which validated my self-loathing. I can’t get someone to treat me right, but Hitler had three entire women commit suicide over his dumpy ass?!

I’d been going to therapy at this point in my life, and I remember having a hard time making progress because this thought had become a belief. I “knew” in my heart that I was human garbage and that the world never intended to be generous or kind to me. This belief was so ingrained that I barely noticed when the opposite was true—I didn’t notice or even believe the amazing people who wanted to date me, and I didn’t understand the significance of my role in the community. I wrote an advice column while also volunteering and serving on various boards for various nonprofits, only ever shrugging when my parents

So when a dearly loved person in my life recently made a joke about something personal that I do not find particularly funny, I chose to talk to them about it because they are a good person who will listen to what makes that topic off-limits. They were empathetic and oh so kind, and they were apologetic for crossing that line. I thought about the Bonita of the past who would have loved to lay into that person and hammer away about how offended and affected she was by what happened. She would have required prostration and a freakin’ hair shirt before just accepting a simple apology, and all of that might not have even been enough. But this is now, and I love this person, and I know they love me, and also they didn’t know that this topic was upsetting for me. What grudge is there even to hold, really?

I don’t like the feeling of anger simmering in my gut. It gives me no energy; it helps me in no way. I don’t want jogging to be a thing that I inflict upon myself because I can’t let my anger go. I’ve gained a lot of weight, of course, and that’s fine. I’ve always been a baddie. I’m ready for swimsuit season, and I’m ready to love someone again. I can forgive any disappointments that dating may bring, and I am a pro at the numbers game. Whoever they are, I know they’re out there. f

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

ERIN FRANCE

BASIC

REAL ESTATE

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

2BR garage apartment for rent. Pulaski St. HVAC and W/D. $1100/mon incl. water. Avail. August 1st. Text or call: 706-588-5252.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

2 Spaces avail. in CHASE ST WAREHOUSE. Each space has concrete floors, bathroom, HVAC and own exterior access. 700 sqft @ $1200 per month and 900 sqft @ $1500 per month. If interested call or text 323-304-0720 or email mfp productions@gmail.com.

HOUSES FOR RENT

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

Rent or sell your property in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-549-0301 or email class@flagpole.com

HOUSES FOR SALE

Looking for a house or a home? Condo or land? Call Daniel Peiken. REALTOR 5Market Realty. Selling in and around Athens for over 20 years. 706-296-2941

FOR SALE

MISCELLANEOUS

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

YARD SALES

MULTI FAMILY YARD

SALE. SAT 4/20, 8-2p.m. Ceramics, womens and boys clothes, household items, rugs and so much more! Let our treasures become YOUR treasures! 115 Hampton Park Dr. Hampton Park Subdivision Athens

Sell your stuff in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706549-03301 today.

MUSIC

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Nuçi’s Space is accepting applications for their Health and Wellness Program Manager Position. Applications close 4/24. For information on applying, go to https://www/nuci.org/hiring.

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

Sell your musical equipment or find musicians by advertising in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-549-0301 or email class@flagpole.com

Petunia (55685594)

SERVICES CLEANING

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

HEALTH

Pain? Depression? Insomnia? Call us today to find out how we can help you using natrual plant medicine. 888-4203848 . Use coupon code “Athens24” for 15% off your first order.

HOME AND GARDEN

Woman-Run Gardening Services: Prep for spring! We offer garden clean-up/ maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706395-5321.

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

JOBS PART-TIME

Join a diverse, inclusive workplace and get paid to type! 16–40 hours, Mon–Fri. NEVER be called in for a shift you didn’t sign up for. Must type 65+ wpm. Make your own schedule and work independently with no customer interaction. Starts at $13 with automatic increases. www.ctscribes. com

Flagpole ♥s our advertisers, donors and readers.

NOTICES

MESSAGES

Need old papers for a project? We have plenty here at Flagpole! Call ahead and we’ll have a crate ready for you. Please leave current issues on the stands. 706549-0301

ORGANIZATIONS

Waxing Phoenix Virtual Gallery presents an OPEN CALL FOR ARTISTS age 16 & up. Email waxingphoenix gallery@gmail.com for info.

Daniel Peiken Daniel@Athenshome.com 706 296 2941

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