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HOME G AME SPECIAL S

University Choir and UGA Glee Club Hodgson Singers and Georgia Treble Choir

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7 at 7:30 p.m. HODGSON CONCERT HALL

This Concert is Free

Conductors: Daniel Bara: Hodgson Singers

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 at 7:30 p.m. HODGSON CONCERT HALL For

Colin Mann: University Choir, UGA Glee Clubs, and Georgia Treble Choir

Thursday, October 2 3:30 p.m. in Ramsey Concert Hall

Tuesday, October 7 5:30 p.m. in Ramsey Concert Hall

flagpole’s

scary story contest

Length: 750 words

Topic: Athens-based

Deadline: 2 p.m., Fri. Oct. 10th

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner

Alicia Nickles

ADVERTISING SALES Libba Beaucham, Dave Martin

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin

CITY EDITOR Blake Aued

MUSIC EDITOR Sam Lipkin

OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene

CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene

AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson

CONTRIBUTORS C.J. Bartunek, Gordon Lamb, Rebecca McCarthy, Lee Shearer, Ed Tant

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

CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe

EDITORIAL & OFFICE INTERN Mary Beth Bryan

PHOTOGRAPHERS CJ Bartunek, Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel

SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons

STREET ADDRESS: 220 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30601

ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603

Georgia musician, and former Athenian, Scott Low shared the music video for his single from the upcoming album Grateful Blues, a compilation of Grateful Dead blues covers, to be released Oct. 10. The newly released music video matches the atmosphere of Low’s take on these songs:

“Flagpole

Prizes: $50 First, $25 Second, $15 Third Must Be At Least 16 Years Old To Enter Winners published in Oct. 29th issue of Flagpole

Email stories to: editorial@flagpole.com

Fire Station Fight

VOTE LOOMS ON LOCATION, AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued and Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com

The Athens- Clarke County Commission will vote next week on a new location for an aging Eastside fire station, or it could opt to start the process all over again for the third time.

Commissioner Carol Myers put forward a commission-defined option (CDO)—an alternative to the recommendation from ACC staff—to build the new fire station at the recommended site near the intersection of Morton and Old Lexington roads, but also instruct staff to abide by ACC’s lighting ordinance, use planted buffers to shield the fire station from adjacent property owners, and ensure materials and fuel are stored in an environmentally sensitive way.

A competing CDO from Commissioner Patrick Davenport would scrap the land purchase and start a new search outside the area identified by the fire department.

the second phase of The View at NoDA and Classic City Heights, a senior housing development on Atlanta Highway.

tially be even larger, such as a medical office covering up to 75% of the five-acre lot. “Without a plan that is properly scaled and preservation-minded, the site could either deteriorate further through neglect or be redeveloped in ways that overwhelm both the landmark and its surroundings,” the group said. [BA]

Religious Groups March Against Immigration Crackdown

quoted from the Bible: “It has been said, ‘We are commanded to love them as we love ourselves.’”

“ It really comes down to something very simple, and that’s that it will provide better service to 800 residents.

SPLOST 2020 includes $6 million to replace Fire Station No. 5 on Whit Davis Road, built in 1974. Fire officials are advocating moving the station further east because, in its current location, its service area overlaps with other stations, while also leading to long response times in the southeastern corner of the county.

“After all this time, it really comes down to something very simple, and that’s that it will provide better service to 800 residents,” Myers said at the commission’s Sept. 16 agenda- setting meeting. “They will have their response times reduced by three to almost six minutes, in some cases, which can make all the difference in lives lost.”

Firefighters who are cross- trained as emergency medical technicians provide onsite treatment and often arrive faster than an ambulance. For every minute treatment for cardiac arrest is delayed, the odds of survival drop by 10%, Fire Chief Nate Moss told commissioners. In addition, not moving the fire station could affect homeowners’ insurance rates for the entire county.

Some rural residents in the area have complained about the traffic and noise a fire station would generate, disrupting their peaceful lifestyle. However, Moss said Fire Station No. 5 currently receives about three calls per day, and not all of them require lights and sirens.

The complaints led the commission to reject all of the recommended sites in 2023 and start the site selection process over again with a new set of criteria. Those criteria produced a very similar result, though— the best location to serve the most people is around the intersection of Old Lexington and Morton roads. County officials then found a property owner who was willing to sell 7.2 acres for $487,000. The large lot will allow the county to place the fire station 600 feet away from the nearest home.

The site will be up for a vote at the Oct. 7 commission meeting. Two affordable housing projects are also on the agenda:

The second phase of NoDA, on the site of what was once Bethel Midtown Village off College Avenue, will include 142 one-, two- and three-bedroom units for renters making 40–80% of the area median income, a sliding scale based on household size set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In addition to the $52 million ACC has already committed to the project, the Athens Housing Authority is asking for a $3.5 million loan. Most of the $65 million project is funded by state and federal tax credits. The first phase of 120 units opened in 2024.

The AHA is requesting a $1 million loan for Classic City Heights, also funded primarily by the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program. It will include 68 one- and two-bedroom apartments for seniors 55 and up. Rents will be set based on income, with a cap of $46,270 for a single person and $52,850 for a couple. [Blake Aued]

Historic Athens Opposes Hotel

The preservation group Historic Athens announced last week that, after a unanimous vote by its board of trustees, it is “unable to endorse” a proposed hotel on the grounds of the former UGA President’s House “in its current form.”

While acknowledging that financial factors—the property’s asking price is $5 million, with $2 million in deferred maintenance needed—mean some type of development is inevitable, Historic Athens said that Gainesville-based Capstone Property Group’s proposal for a 116-room, 88,000 square- foot hotel is too large. “The proposal is larger in scale than the site and the surrounding [Boulevard] historic district can sustain within preservation standards,” the group said in a lengthy public statement, available at flagpole.com. “Without adjustments, it risks compromising both the landmark and the surrounding historic neighborhoods.”

In addition, the group cited concerns about parking, a lack of binding protections for the main house, outbuildings and gardens, damage to nearby structures from blasting, and the impacts of noise and light on neighborhood residents. It is also demanding an archaeological study and “visible interpretation of the site’s full history integrated into public- facing areas such as the gardens, historic outbuildings, hotel, restaurant and bar.”

Historic Athens said it would seek to influence rather than block the hotel development because the house, built in 1856, could deteriorate further if left vacant for long. (The University System Board of Regents announced it would be put on the market more than two years ago.) In addition, another development could poten-

Nearly 300 people chanted and sang their way along Prince Avenue to the federal courthouse downtown Sunday, Sept. 21 in a protest march and rally against the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign.

Sponsored by two Athens faith-based organizations, the tone of the protest was not so much political as moral and religious, condemning the crackdown as contradicting the spiritual teachings of the Christian, Jewish and Muslim congregations that form the two groups, the Interfaith Clergy Partnership of Greater Athens and the Interfaith Sanctuary Coalition.

Marchers held handdrawn signs, chanted slogans like “Hey, ho, hey, ho, ICE has got to go,” and sang familiar protest songs such as “We Shall Overcome” as they made their way up the sidewalk, some using canes, some couples with strollers. Often, passing drivers blew their car horns in support.

Bloodsaw is pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church West, a church with a long history of civil rights activism. Ebenezer’s sanctuary is a block away from the development going up at the old Milledge Avenue Varsity site, where Black students picketed the segregated restaurant. The church was at the heart of protests during the 1960s and 1970s, when racial barriers finally came down at the University of Georgia and the Clarke County public schools.

He reminded the gathering of how the Christian Bible instructs the faithful to treat strangers—with welcome and kindness. “I feel like our democracy is being melted,” Bloodsaw said. Rights guaranteed to all by the Constitution are being eroded, such as the right to due process of law, he said.

“We are called here by our moral values,” said another speaker, the Rev. Pippin Whitaker of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. “We are living in a time of spiritual peril,” she said.

“ They are not outsiders to be feared, but neighbors to be embraced.

Chaplain Shane Sims of Athens Al-Huda Islamic Center told the crowd that immigration is “central” to his faith. “The earliest Muslims were immigrants,” he said.

“We are all beloved children of God,” said Jesse Siebentritt, representing the Athens Friends Meeting (Quakers).

Organizers warned the marchers after they had gathered across Prince Avenue from the Clarke County School District headquarters that if they encountered counter protesters, they should meet them with love, but no counter protesters materialized.

As they quietly gathered at the courthouse, music minister Tom Eggleston played hymns of his own composition on a portable electric organ set up on the building’s portico.

The Rev. Daryl Bloodsaw, one of the faith leaders who spoke after the long line of protestors had arrived at the federal building,

“God just made God’s children. It isn’t God’s children and somebody else’s,” said the Rev. Nikki Mathis of St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church. She encouraged the marchers to “Pray the name, talk the talk and walk the walk.” The abuse of immigrants didn’t just begin in January, but has been going on much longer, she reminded them.

“They are human beings worthy of safety, dignity and love, not outsiders to be feared, but neighbors to be embraced,” said the Rev. Tom Buchanan of Covenant Presbyterian Church.

“This is not justice. It is certainly not the will of God,” Buchanan said. [Lee Shearer] f

Working for Justice

THE ATHENS COMMUNITY RALLIES AROUND IMMIGRANT MEMBERS

By C.J. Bartunek news@flagpole.com

Aweek and a half ago, joyful crowds filled two blocks of downtown Athens, celebrating the traditions and contributions of the diverse people who make up the local Latino community. Musicians, dancers and speakers took the stage; chefs enticed visitors with their creations; artists and authors showcased their work; kids jumped in a bounce house and worked on crafts. The festival also promoted wellness and community engagement, with tents offering flu shots, resources for college applicants, and voting information.

LatinxFest is a highlight in Athens every year, but in 2025 it also provided an opportunity for participants to support each other in an uncertain time. Over the summer, Georgia ranked fourth in the nation in total Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests for the year, with Latino people bearing much of the impact. Organizers recently canceled Savannah’s annual Hispanic Heritage Parade due to safety concerns.

Living With the Threat of Deportation

About 1.3 million Georgians are foreignborn, which is more than 10% of the state’s population. Athens- Clarke County has a similar proportion of immigrant residents. In 2022, an estimated 347,800 undocumented immigrants lived in Georgia, though less data is available on the city or county level.

Since President Donald Trump took office in January, new policies have also stripped legal status from hundreds of thousands more immigrants. Temporary protected status granted to people from nations facing war, natural disaster or other hardship has been revoked for several countries. So have humanitarian protections for others. Some who are eligible for green cards despite remaining in the U.S. longer than permitted are being arrested at their interviews, as are some asylum- seekers.

In 2019, the Athens- Clarke County Commission passed a “Resolution in Support of Athens Immigrant, Undocumented, and Latinx Community ” denouncing white supremacy and promising to “foster a community where individuals and families of all statuses feel safe, are able to prosper and can breathe free.” The Laken Riley murder case brought the resolution into the national spotlight, with some residents accusing Mayor Kelly Girtz of shielding immigrants who commit crimes.

But Athens is not actually a “sanctuary city,” as a since-retracted Department of Homeland Security report alleged. “You may not like state or federal immigration law, but we’re compliant with it, and we always have been,” Girtz told Flagpole in June.

Although the resolution does not carry legal weight, many Athenians remain committed to putting its ideals into practice. The Athens Immigrant Rights Coalition (AIRC), formed in 2011, is “a collection of Athensbased groups with a shared goal of asserting justice for Athens area immigrants, regardless of legal status.” As more local individuals and families face arrest, deportation and separation from loved ones, these groups have stepped up to support them, whether with food, legal fees, help with child care or other needs. Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, and many bring expertise from their professional lives into this work.

Some of those arrested come from Athens, where distraught family members remain. This spring, a single mother with no previous criminal background who was seeking asylum was called in for a hearing and swiftly deported, leaving her 18- year-old daughter to care for her younger siblings, according to immigrants’ rights activists. Though friends and community groups have provided food and financial assistance, the teenaged daughter left high school and is focused on finding a job that can support the family she now heads. In August, a grandfather and Sunday school teacher was detained by ICE at his regular check-in with immigration officials. Some families are choosing to “self deport” and return to their home countries, or move to states they hope will be safer. Some leave without telling any of their friends or neighbors.

pect of being in the U.S. illegally. As of September, 25 ICE detainers had been issued to the Athens- Clarke County jail this year, keeping inmates incarcerated so ICE can take them into custody, even if they would otherwise be released. (Eighteen of those people were picked up by ICE.) An Athens man who was arrested for jaywalking was picked up by ICE from the Cobb County jail and is now being held in Stewart Detention Center, where he is sleeping on the floor due to overcrowding. A diabetic who has had several toes amputated and needs further amputations, he was still waiting to receive his prescription medications three days after intake.

Clarke County Sheriff John Q. Williams says that his office does not target people “based on how they look or what language they’re speaking,” and that racial profiling violates people’s rights. “We’re focused on keeping our community safe and protecting everyone’s Constitutional rights who are in the United States,” he says. “We’re focused on safety for everyone.” But in the context of the larger system that criminalizes their presence, undocumented people may find it hard to trust law enforcement, and may avoid interacting with officers even when they’ve been the victims of crime.

The Department of Homeland Security announced in an Aug. 20 press release that ICE had arrested 4,500 undocumented people in Georgia between Jan. 20 and July 31. “367% increase in arrests of illegal aliens in the Peach State compared to Biden,” the report proclaimed. According to the Atlanta Journal- Constitution, the number may even be significantly higher. As of Aug. 28, they reported that nearly 2,500 immigrants arrested in Georgia had been deported.

“They say, ‘This isn’t living,’” Teter, an AIRC member, says through an interpreter. “This is no life to live in this kind of fear… We see people in our community selling their things, selling their houses.” (Teter asked to be identified only by her nickname.) She also points out that for every deportation reported, family members may follow so that they can stay together, meaning that even more people are leaving the country than early statistics likely reflect.

About half of the ICE arrests in Georgia occur in local jails, the AJC reported. The Georgia Criminal Alien Track and Report Act of 2024 (HB 1105) requires sheriffs and jails to report on the immigration status of everyone incarcerated. The bill also allows law enforcement to detain anyone they sus -

Sujata Winfield, an immigration attorney in Athens, says that she has been fielding calls from more prospective clients than she can take on. And as a vast backlog of immigration cases builds, some of her clients may be incarcerated for the better part of a year before receiving a hearing. When a case comes to court, she says it may be rushed through, or a judge may make a ruling without allowing a defendant’s lawyer to argue the case. Winfield says that the government is routinely violating people’s rights to due process and a free and fair trial as the administration pushes to remove as many people as fast as possible and to involve agencies beyond ICE. “Nothing is really safe anymore,” she says. Still, as a lawyer, “you have your cases and you put your efforts into trying to keep people from being deported.”

Community Support

Traffic stops have been a major source of immigration arrests. Being stopped for

U-Lead Athens volunteer Kelly Medina speaks at an Athens Immigrants Rights Coalition meeting in August.

CJ BARTUNEK

a broken taillight or other minor alleged violations can upend a person’s entire life. Undocumented people can’t apply for driver’s licenses in Georgia, so driving without a license or with a suspended license is often an issue. Undocumented passengers aren’t safe from having their immigration status checked, either. Because of these risks, many undocumented people are understandably afraid to drive, especially to court dates. They may also postpone important medical appointments because of transportation concerns.

To address these challenges, AIRC has a rideshare program in which volunteers with current licenses, insurance and registration drive at-risk people to their engagements. The group also includes a team of volunteer legal observers who respond to reports of ICE and other law enforcement activity affecting immigrants and attempt to document and/or deescalate the situation. These volunteers kept watch during LatinxFest, which was celebrated without incident.

Dignidad Inmigrante en Athens, one of the groups that make up AIRC, also managed to get the mobile unit of the Mexican Consulate in Atlanta to spend several weeks in Athens, helping Mexican citizens get their passports and copies of legal documents, such as birth certificates. People came to Athens from all over Georgia and even Tennessee and Alabama for those services.

Teter worries about the mental toll on targeted communities, especially the children. One little boy she knows told his parents in tears that he didn’t want them to be eaten by alligators—he had learned of the infamous detention center in Florida called “Alligator Alcatraz.” A mother herself, she knows that kids may also keep emotional pain inside. When she can, she organizes informal art therapy sessions in neighborhoods where many undocumented or mixed- status families live, so that kids can forget their worries for a while and express themselves. She has also helped coordinate

dance and yoga sessions for all ages to relieve stress.

No one knows exactly how many undocumented students there are in AthensClarke County or in Georgia. Under current law, public schools may not request proof of citizenship. (Republican legislators in several states have introduced bills they hope will force the Supreme Court to revisit that law.) Athens- Clarke County is a diverse school district, with a large number of students enrolled in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Many kids are part of mixed- status families; they may have been born in the U.S. but have parents or older siblings who are undocumented.

Lori Garrett-Hatfield has been teaching ESOL in Athens elementary schools for more than 20 years and has chaired AIRC’s K-12 committee since 2017. She too has seen firsthand how kids are affected when a parent is arrested or deported. Young children are exhibiting PTSD, anger, depression and anxiety, she says. Even if their parents have not been taken, “they know that mom and dad are scared, but they don’t know why.” (Garrett-Hatfield clarifies that she does not speak as a representative of CCSD.)

Schools had previously been designated as “sensitive” or “protected” locations by U.S. immigration enforcement, but in January, the Trump administration removed that policy, inciting widespread fear of ICE raids at schools across the country. Dips in attendance have been observed throughout the U.S. since then. Garrett-Hatfield says that in August, families and teachers became concerned about gatherings like open houses for parents or holiday celebrations, especially during Hispanic Heritage Month. CCSD policy requires a court order—not the administrative warrants commonly used by ICE—for agents to enter a school.

AIRC will hold a forum this month where teachers can ask questions of an immigration attorney and a law enforcement attorney to understand what they can and can’t

do to protect students. The group provides resources to families in the district who are in need, and encourages undocumented parents to make family plans and have designated guardians for their children in case they are detained. It also works to educate teachers about how the deportation push is affecting students.

Despite her distress at the present situation, Garrett-Hatfield has been heartened by how many people want to help. “Athens is a really unique community of caring people who want to do right by their neighbors,” she says. “It helps me smile on days when it’s not so easy.”

Some of the AIRC’s meetings have brought as many as 100 attendees. In August they met in a church’s fellowship hall, a room with gray carpet and colorful artwork and a long table at the back where women served tacos. Committee members reported on the past month’s accomplishments and challenges—rides given, scholarships awarded, financial assistance provided. An Athens salon had raised money; so had a yoga studio. Someone won a contest and donated their prize money. The Interfaith Sanctuary Coalition broke off to discuss the march that would be held on Sept. 21 (see p. 5). Others discussed communications to policymakers. Despite the difficult circumstances bringing them together, people seemed to be in good spirits.

Teter and Alys Willman, an AIRC organizer, say that every week, what is needed changes, and what it means to be in community changes. Teter says that while it’s important to acknowledge the suffering and pain many immigrants and their loved ones are going through, she does not want that to overshadow the amazing lives they have made, and the love and care that has poured out in response. Throughout the day at LatinxFest, she says, people expressed gratitude that they are still able to gather, knowing that elsewhere others may not feel free to do so. “It’s healing for us to be together,” she says. f

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1ST

2ND

OCTOBER 3RD

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH

3-5PM ATHENS SHOWGIRL CABARET 8PM SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5TH SEABOARD BRIDGE EP RELEASE TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7TH

Dancers from Tonalli perform at LatinxFest Sept. 20 in downtown Athens.

Legion Pool Is Closing

UGA PLANS PARKING, AMPHITHEATER ON SITE

By Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com

Much to the dismay of many in the Athens community, University of Georgia officials plan to demolish Legion Pool, its pool house and the Legion Field bandstand to “better serve and support UGA students” and to create more parking.

“Legion Pool is an amazing community resource, and it breaks my heart to think it will go away,” says Athens resident and part- time faculty member Rebecca Burns. She and her husband were Sunday fixtures at the pool last summer, arriving when it opened and grabbing a shady spot near the picnic tables with their books and towels. “It was so relaxing and calm.”

nians needed a community center with a pool, a playground and a cabin where the post could meet. In 1933, they found a “bowl” of land on Lumpkin and bought the property. By 1936, the pool was tiled, and the bathhouse and shelter were finished.

The New Deal-era Works Progress Administration and the Public Works Administration allotted $18,000 to the project, with the City of Athens and local residents raising $12,500. Designed by architect C. Wilmer Heery, at the time it was the largest pool between Richmond, VA and Miami, FL. At the beginning of World War II, 600 U.S. Navy cadets a day were learning to swim in

So enamored with Legion Pool was Burns that she bought a T- shirt celebrating the pool’s longevity. It’s a relatively inexpensive university recreational resource that’s available to the public, but those are disappearing. The Field Track, used for decades by local residents, will soon be gone to make way for more UGA football facilities.

UGA Dean of Students Eric Atkinson chaired a working group—composed solely of UGA administrators and students—that decided to close the pool and redevelop the property. In a UGA Today story, he says fewer than 2.5% of UGA students use Legion Pool, which is open from late May to early August. The pool loses almost $90,000 annually, with the Student Activity Fee covering the deficit.

That students don’t use the pool is understandable, say many patrons. The pool opens usually after spring semester ends, when students are leaving, and is closed when fall semester begins—even though temperatures remain high well into late September and early October. And the university doesn’t actively market Legion Pool to students.

Burns says her daughter was a UGA student for eight years and never knew she could swim in Legion Pool, which was a few steps from her dormitory. UGA closed the pool in 2020 because of COVID-19 and kept it closed in 2021. When it reopened in 2022, many noticed that fewer people were coming.

Legion Pool was dreamed up by the Allan R. Fleming Post No. 20 of the American Legion in Athens. Members thought Athe-

Justice for All?

TRUMP TARGETS LIBERAL CITIES WHILE RELEASING RIGHT-WING RIOTERS

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

While President Donald Trump is haunted by the ghost of party pal and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, there is no hesitation in his regime’s march toward authoritarianism. Still, all across this nation citizens are rallying against the specter of autocracy in America. Along with some politicians, judges and juries, millions are trying to save our fragile democracy from Trump’s treachery.

In Washington, D.C., a federal grand jury recently threw out the case against Sean Dunn, a former Justice Department employee and a decorated U.S. Air Force veteran who was awarded many medals and honors during his five years in the military that included deployment to Afghanistan. Dunn had thrown an unopened Subway sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection officer during a protest in the nation’s capital. The “sandwich attack” was dismissed, and Air Force Times writer Carla Babb jokingly called it an “assault with a deli weapon.” Attorney General Pam Bondi went into pearl- clutching high dudgeon over the incident, saying, “If you touch any law enforcement officer, we will come after you.”

injuries. Police said that Packer had a long criminal record even before his arrest for his involvement in the 2021 insurrection. Now Packer is awaiting trial again, and a Virginia judge may not be as lenient toward him as the president was earlier this year when he freed Packer and hundreds of other Jan. 6 convicts.

Washington and Los Angeles have been targeted by Trump’s shows of police and military force lately, and now Chicago is in his sights. The midwest metropolis that poet Carl Sandburg called “Stormy, husky, brawling, City of the Big Shoulders” could be stormy and brawling again if the Trump regime floods its streets with federal cops, masked ICE agents and National Guard troops. Protesters in the Windy City might find mordant irony in Trump’s vows to fight crime and support law and order while freeing the criminals of Jan. 6, 2021 who brought lawlessness and disorder to Capitol Hill.

Nationwide protests against the Trump regime have brought out millions of Americans in big cities and small towns since the president’s second term began on Jan.

Legion Pool. The City of Athens operated the pool for white patrons until 1952, when it sold the pool and land to the Board of Regents for $75,000. The pool was to be held in trust for the Athens community. It was opened to Black residents in 1966.

In 2012, then-President Michael Adams offered a plan to destroy the pool and build a new one near Lake Herrick. People in the community proposed starting a nonprofit to cover some of the costs of operating the pool. University officials weren’t receptive to that idea.

“They don’t market the pool to students,” says Sara Baker, who has been swimming at Legion Pool most of her life. “They’ve been rigging the system for years, saying few students use Legion and keeping it open only a little while. They could open it earlier and keep it open later for the students to enjoy.”

Historic Athens placed Legion Pool on its “Places in Peril” list in 2021, citing deferred maintenance and limited hours.

“Adaptive reuse could allow this nearly century old site to benefit UGA students and the city of Athens for generations to come,” the preservation group said in a Sept. 26 statement. “Historic Athens calls on UGA, as the state’s flagship institution, to lead by example and demonstrate that stewardship of cultural resources is compatible with campus growth.”

The UGA working group plans to enhance Legion Field “to create an expanded community green space and an outdoor amphitheater using the site’s natural topography,” according to UGA Today. It will also add 70 spaces to the parking lot. f

She wasn’t so eager to go after members of the pro-Trump MAGA mob who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021—a 21st century date of infamy in America. On his inauguration day this year, Trump freed the rioters, many of whom had touched law enforcement officers, not with sandwiches, but with real weapons. Dozens of police officers were injured during the MAGA melee, but the Jan. 6 rioters are now back on the streets of America. Already several of the mobsters have been arrested again for such offenses as burglary, sex crimes against children and unlawful possession of firearms by felons.

On Sept. 4 police arrested Robert Keith Packer, a Virginia man who gained notoriety during the insurrection when he was photographed wearing a sweatshirt bearing the words “Camp Auschwitz” with an image of a skull reminiscent of the insignia of Hitler’s Nazis, who ran horrific concentration camps like Auschwitz. Packer’s vicious unleashed dogs attacked four people, all of whom were treated at a hospital for their

20. More such marches and rallies will take place all over this nation on Oct. 18. Chicago will be a focal point of such events next month, but it won’t be the first time that the eyes of the world were focused on the city. In 1968 antiwar protesters chanted, “The whole world is watching,” as they were clubbed and jailed during what was called a “police riot” outside the Democratic National Convention.

On Sept. 24, 1969, the five-month federal “show trial” of antiwar leaders dubbed the Chicago 8 began in the Windy City. President Richard Nixon and Attorney General John Mitchell pushed for long prison sentences for the men and trumpeted the slogan of “law and order,” but it was Nixon who later resigned in disgrace and Mitchell who went to jail for their roles in the criminality of the Watergate caper.

At the Chicago trial 56 years ago, defendant Dave Dellinger spoke words that apply more than ever today: “We will not put up with a facade of democracy without the reality.”

President Trump promised to crack down on crime after pardoning hundreds of his supporters convicted of crimes at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

UGA’s plan for Legion Pool includes more parking and greenspace.

Dawg Dollars

THE BUSINESS OF COLLEGE FOOTBALL KEEPS GETTING BIGGER

By Lee Shearer news@flagpole.com

The University of Georgia Athletic Association’s coffers have swollen in the decade since Kirby Smart became football coach, fueling an athletic construction boom approaching half a billion dollars. But the nonprofit corporation that runs UGA’s college sports programs is scratching for more as they fight to stay on top of the arms race that is college football. Some college athletic operations rake in more dollars than UGA, but when it comes to the bottom line, they’re not in UGA’s league. The University of Texas, for example, reported revenue of $331.9 million—$91 million more than UGA—but $325 million in expenses in the 2024 fiscal year, according to The New York Times’ “The Athletic”; Ohio State reported a small deficit despite $292 million in revenues, in part because Ohio State and other Big Ten colleges sponsor more “non-revenue” sports, which cost more to run than they generate in income, than UGA and other Southeastern Conference schools. Ohio State runs 36 NCAA Division I teams to UGA’s 21.

In recent years, Georgia’s surpluses have soared to previously unthinkable heights. UGA’s athletic income doubled in Smart’s first eight years, and with football ticket prices going up and new Southeastern Conference media deals now kicking in, UGA revenues are set to continue their upward climb.

UGA’s athletic operating revenues reached $241.8 million in the 2024 fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 (the latest year for which reports are available) against $194.3 million in operating expenses—a difference of $47.3 million, or nearly 25%.

recorded $11.5 million in contributions for FY 2024, enough to pay for several years of their typical operating costs; the women’s softball team got $14.3 million in contributions; and baseball recorded $8.6 million. Football contributions were $42.7 million in FY24, and men’s basketball generated $3.3 million.

At schools with big- time athletic programs, the general expectation is that football will bring in more money than it costs, and men’s basketball likewise on a smaller scale. Their excess income goes to subsidize all the other teams—women’s basketball, men and women’s golf, volleyball, gymnastics and others that cost more to run than the revenue they generate.

million in administrative costs, $10 million for team travel, $10.1 million for game expenses, $4.2 million for student-athlete non- travel meals and $6.4 million for recruiting. Rental and debt service costs were $11.4 million, mostly in debt service. The athletic association listed total athletic debt of $117.6 million in FY24, down from $136.4 million a year earlier.

As a tax-exempt 501(c) non-profit corporation, the athletic association doesn’t have stockholders or pay dividends from its profits. The UGA president controls a majority of appointments to its governing board; under NCAA rules, college athletic programs must be under the authority of their university administrations.

Some of the UGAA’s surplus annual revenue gets invested in athletic endowment funds that reached $131.2 million in FY24, and coaching salaries have roughly doubled, but by far the biggest part has been devoted to building new athletic facilities, starting with an indoor football practice field in 2017. The most recent projects include the $60 million track and field complex now going up on South Milledge Avenue and the

not just a pay- for-play deal, by a special commission the NCAA has set up.

The new pay rules seem likely to widen the gap between the haves and have-nots of college sports, including some big- time programs like UCLA, with a reported $200 million deficit in five years despite $30 million in annual student fees and “direct institutional support.”

Athlete pay is an even bigger reach for smaller athletic programs such as Kennesaw State and Georgia Southern, with reported revenues of around $40 million, most of it from institutional funds and student fees. Austin Peay and Marshall University, two of UGA’s small- school football opponents this year, respectively reported $21 million and $48 million in athletic revenue in FY24, mostly from institutional support and student fees.

In the five fiscal years from 2019–2024, the athletic surplus has averaged $38.4 million per year. The UGAA even had a surplus in the 2021 fiscal year, when ticket sales in the COVID- constrained 2020 football season plummeted to $4.7 million from $38.6 million in 2019. Thanks to an infusion of money from the SEC, a remarkable return on the athletic association’s investments, and about $16 million less in expenses, the athletic association still managed a $46.4 million surplus in FY2021.

The money comes from four main sources. Ticket sales were $39.5 million in FY24 (mainly football tickets, $36.6 million), and media rights, mostly for football and men’s basketball TV, yielded $43.6 million. Royalties, licensing and advertising added another $23 million, but by far the biggest chunk was a remarkable $101.3 million in “contributions.” Much of the annual contribution money is cash ticket-buyers pay in addition to the ticket face price— more money gets you better seats.

Football usually accounts for most of the contribution line, with men’s basketball a distant second, but not in FY 2024. The men’s and women’s tennis teams each

Women’s basketball at UGA cost $6 million in FY24, for example, against $2.9 million in overall income, including $1.5 million in contribution income. Women’s basketball and perhaps gymnastics and softball are short- changed in a way, however. Despite the tremendous rise in TV viewership for women’s sports, particularly basketball, UGA only recorded $15,047 in media rights income each for basketball and other women’s teams, thanks to the terms of league media contracts. UGA reported $4.9 million revenue for men’s basketball media rights and $20.2 million for football.

On the expense side, the biggest cost is coaching salaries and benefits: $40.7 million in FY2024, followed by support staff at $36.6 million. Football coaching salaries were reported as $23.6 million, including $12.1 for the head coach and $11.6 million for assistant coaches, some of whom now earn more than $1 million. In the 2017 fiscal year, Smart’s first, football coaches’ pay totaled $13.5 million.

Other FY24 expenses included $12.4 million in school scholarships for the “athletic aid equivalency” of about 200 full- time athletes, about an equal number of men and women. (In some sports, coaches can split the money into partial scholarships.) Other big- ticket expense lines were $25.8

subsequent $56 million conversion of the existing track and field facility near Stegeman Coliseum into more football practice fields and 168 parking spaces.

The athletic association has budgeted close to half a billion dollars in construction since 2017, including $80 million for a football operations building, around $150 million for improvements in Sanford Stadium, along with a $45 million upgrade to UGA’s baseball field and $38.5 million at its softball stadium across South Milledge Avenue from where the new track facility is rising.

One new expense this year is paying players. After athletes sued to get paid for their work, schools are now allowed to pay players up to a total of $20.5 million a year, in addition to full-ride college scholarships. Neither UGA nor other schools have revealed how the money will be divided up among sports and players, saying that for one reason or another it’s not public information.

One result of the legal settlement between athletes seeking pay and the NCAA is that the so- called “collectives” that UGA and other schools had been using to funnel NIL money to athletes are being shut down. Athletes will still be able to negotiate NIL deals with outside entities, but such contracts must now be approved as legitimate,

Despite the association’s prosperity, it’s not enough for the future, according to its administrators, who are looking for more ways to drive revenue, as they call it. One of the athletic association’s fastest-growing revenue categories is “other,” which more than quadrupled from $1.4 million in 2014 to $6.6 million in FY24. In April, the association will rent out Sanford Stadium for a music concert, with the artists and terms yet to be named. (Vince Dooley once turned down a young UGA cultural affairs workers’ idea of booking a Sanford Stadium concert with Bruce Springsteen when the Boss was riding high.) Once in 2013, the field became a music stage, and 66,000 people came to hear a country music lineup. A Sanford concert by Athens’ R.E.M. has been a source of speculation for years, but other big acts—imagine Taylor Swift—would bring lots of business to downtown Athens. The association is also making money this year selling “Game Day Experiences.” For just $1,500 per quarter in the Alabama game ($2,000 for the fourth quarter), you could descend from the stands to cheer on the dogs from the north sideline, up close and personal. For $3,000, you could run onto the Dooley Field turf with the team as they take the field just before kickoff, feeling what it’s like to bask in the deafening roar of the Bulldog faithful who’ve filled most of Sanford Stadium’s 93,303 seats. Among other opportunities, $5,500 would buy a child the privilege of running onto the field to fetch the tee after each kickoff. Those with more modest budgets might buy a greeting on the stadium’s huge message board—$150 for the Alabama game, up from the $100 Austin Peay fee. One recent weeknight, the big Sanford Stadium lights pierced the dark like strobes and swept back and forth across the empty field and stands for anyone pausing to watch from the bridge at the stadium’s west end. Brilliant green LED strips at the bottom of the upper deck urged viewers to buy the Georgia Lottery’s new Georgia Bulldog scratch-off game, featuring an image of Uga, Georgia’s Bulldog mascot. “Win big!” the banner urged.

Meanwhile, Sanford Stadium’s seating capacity has dropped to ninth place among U.S. college stadiums as other schools spend billions to enlarge their stadium sizes to 100,000 and beyond. Can talk of adding seats in Stanford’s north end, completing the bowl, be far away? f

UGA spent $63 million in 2018 on new locker rooms and a west end zone pavilion. Could adding a second deck be next?

Opening Receptions

Lyndon House Arts Center • 5:30 p.m. • FREE!

This month, five new exhibitions are opening at Lyndon House Arts Center. The first is “Carving Out Liminal Pathways Toward Fragmentation” by Sebastian Garcia Huidobro and Rachel Lea Seburn.

Huidobro’s abstract sculptural paintings made of foam and fabric mimic the forms of microorganisms, while Seburn’s brutalist architecture-inspired sculptures mirror the process of building one’s dwelling using available materials. “Seams to Be: New Approaches to Textile Techniques” is a traveling exhibition featuring 13 Georgia artists who use needle and thread in a variety of ways, curated by Didi Dunphy. “Interwoven Narratives: Caul and Response” by twin sisters Sachi Rome and Tokie Rome-Taylor explores the Southern folklore surrounding the caul and double consciousness through a combination of photographic realism and abstract expressionism. Artist Katie Kameen collected and recontextualized secondhand plastic for her works in “Plastic Tense.” Finally, “Wonder” by Susan Perry is a series of small- scale sculptures made from handmade paper and bamboo

and popcorn soul. Wells’ Turnin N Burnin event is a monthly series featuring highenergy ’50s and ’60s soul and R&B hosted at venues like Star Bar, The Local and Boggs Social Club. He often books Athens DJs like Mitchell and Wood, so Spectacular Burnin will give them a chance to return the favor and have him spin some tunes. [MB]

ART | OCT. 3 & OCT. 5

Quilt & Lace Exhibition Events

Taylor-Grady House • Times Vary • Prices Vary

An exhibition of antique and contemporary quilts and laceworks will be on display in the historic rooms of the Taylor-Grady House Oct. 3 through Oct. 11, featuring works from 1897 until the present, antique wedding gowns, two vintage Katha quilts and more. The opening reception is on Oct. 3 at 5 p.m., which is a $15 ticketed event that will include an exclusive first look at the exhibition, as well as refreshments. Sew Sew Studio will hold quilt square-making demonstrations for visitors, with these squares being used to create a quilt for next year’s exhibition. On Oct. 9 as part of the main exhibit, Athens Lacemakers will demonstrate the art of various kinds of lacemaking from 5–7 p.m. Oct. 5 will bring the first annual Airing of the Quilts Ceremony, where guests are invited to bring their own treasured quilts, blankets and textiles to be hung up outside and have their histories shared. The exhibition will be open for free viewing every day after the opening reception from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. [MB]

with forms inspired by traditional Chinese kites. All exhibitions are open through Jan. 24, except “Wonder,” which closes Dec. 6. [Mary Beth Bryan]

MUSIC | FRI, OCT. 3

Spectacular Burnin Dance Party

Normal Bar • 8 p.m.–12 a.m. • FREE!

Spectacular Burnin is a fusion of Atlanta’s monthly vinyl DJ event, Turnin N Burnin, with Athens’ Soul Spectacular Dance Party. Hosted by DJ Bottom Shelf (Townson Wells) of Turnin N Burnin and DJs Nate Mitchell and Kurt Wood of Soul Spectacular, the evening will include a variety of rare and classic soul, funk and Motown cuts. Mitchell says that Soul Spectacular, which happens biweekly at Normal Bar, is a continuation of the ’60s- centric music dance parties he began organizing just after he moved to Athens. In the years since then, he’s kept up with a network of record collectors dedicated to playing the hits and also highlighting lesser-known scenes like Northern soul, beach music

EVENT | SAT, OCT. 4

Indie-Con 2025

Ciné • 6–11 p.m. • $30.80–59.62 Indie- Con, formerly known as Athens Indie Fest, is returning to bring workshops, panels, a studio experience and purpose-driven dialogue to local creatives. The event was first launched in 2014, offering a space for independent talents to grow and thrive. After a long hiatus, Indie- Con is pivoting to focus not on performances, but rather on sharing creative strategy. The event will begin with a panel discussion about DIY content creation, followed by another about managing money and building technology. Next, there will be a Content Creator Showcase featuring Ant Da Ripper, Jonathan SurgicalFilms Jackson, Lo Jones and Ishues. Then there will be a Spotlight Session and Q&A about getting media coverage, followed by a conversation between Montu Miller and New Orleans emcee Alfred Banks. A short social mixer will be held before a Live Mixtape Performance Showcase featuring Alfred Banks, Stella Groove, BlackNerdNinja, LB and Libbaloops & Bryant Perez, with music by ELLWIN. Before Indie- Con begins, there will also be a 12 p.m. Lunch & Learn focused on recording sound with founder of Tweed Recording Andrew Ratcliffe, engineer and educator Charlie Chastain and Athens-based musician and producer Hank Sullivant. [MB] f

ClosinG noveMBer 2

Brilliant exiles: aMeriCan WoMen in Paris, 1900 – 1939

Conservation in the Galleries: Joan MitChell’s “Close”

Free Admission

Bookmark

Events and Exhibits at UGA Special Collections Libraries

Sustained Excellence Exhibit Tour 3PM, Oct. 3 & 17, Nov. 14 & 21

Curator-led tours of exhibit celebrating UGA’s acclaimed swim & dive team

Author Tom Johnson 3:30PM, Oct. 29

On new book Driven: A Life in Public Service and Journalism from LBJ to CNN

OUTDOOR FILM SCREENING

Brown Media Presents: The Blob 6:30 PM, Thursday, October 23

Free to the UGA and Athens community. Popcorn is free. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs encouraged. Film starts at 7 PM.

GALLERIES FREE TO THE PUBLIC

HOURS: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8AM-5PM Tuesday, Thursday 8AM-7PM

Alfred Banks

threats & promises Horror Jazz

PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

KEEPIN’ COOL ON SCHOOL: The Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (34 School St., Watkinsville) will host Marty Winkler & Friends and Overia on Saturday, Oct. 4 as part of its live music series. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and music begins at 7 p.m. Joining the jazz/pop/folk singer, who just happens to have a four-octave range, as her band are pianist Neil Golden, bassist Mike Merva, and singers Maggie Mason Hunter and Debbie Hardagree. Local group Overia opens the show. Tickets are $15 in advance for OCAF members and $20 in advance for non-members. These prices increase to $20 and $25, respectively, at the door. For more information, please see ocaf.com and facebook.com/martywinkleractingmusic.

THIS PAINTING WILL SELF-DESTRUCT: MicroTrak (Oliver Domingo, Ava Busby and Aidan Jackson) released its second self- titled EP in as many months a few weeks ago. While the band tags its music as “electronic/ambient/jazz,” this stuff is pretty stylistically jumbled and broadly aestheticized. It opens with the plaintive, bagpipe-punctuated “Km-600 Shark” and then climbs up into

at cgijoe.bandcamp.com and the album at soundcloud.com/cgijoe. SoundCloud now requires visitors to create a free listening account, though, so if that’s a bummer for you then ignore this.

SET THE CONTROLS…: MikeRobeTheDemon returned last month with a two- track release “Eco in Heart of the Sun” B/W “Half A Wish Away.” If you can get past the first couple of minutes of static of the 18-minute A- side, an evil little voice pops up emanating what I can only imagine are subliminal messages. Although there are slight sonic changes in this, it’s essentially a Gremlinafter-midnight performing gutterally in the middle of a broken television. The B- side is a nearly Stereolab-ish track with stunning use of what I would describe as “Tusk”- style drums. It gets a little squishy towards its end, but for the most part is a cool listen. Find this at majorappliancerecordings. bandcamp.com.

YIKES: Horror Jazz is the name of the new EP by French Exit, the ongoing project of AJ Griffin (Laminated Cat, Olivia Tremor Control, et al). Starting with “Horror Jazz # 2 - The Itinerary is Now Wet With Rainwater,” listeners are in for a surprisingly well-integrated amalgamation of plunky string picking atop multiple layers of horns, pianos and rhythmic instruments.

the mid-’80s electro- soul sophistication of “Proline.” This continues, albeit to a diminished degree, through “LampShade” before collapsing like a dying star in “Elgnuj.” This paced, even if inadvertent, destruction of style provides a framework of deliberateness that, once encountered, is difficult to ignore. Find this, as well as the group’s debut from August, at streitjackettapes. bandcamp.com.

NOW YOU KNOW, AND KNOWING IS HALF THE BATTLE!: Musician Joe Kubler has certainly been around the block of Athens music. While currently concentrating on the live aspects of his project CGI Joe, there’s also a brand new single out named “I Think You Should Leave (Already).” This bouncy, indiebaroque/psych number is populated by quotes from comedian Patti Harrison with its central conceit being that weirdos and outliers should be placed front and center in society. Far more interesting, though, is Kubler’s years-long project album named Album 88. Yes, that title is ripped from Atlanta’s WRAS radio station, but what else are you going to name an album with 88 tracks? You can find the new single over

“Horror Jazz #3 - Bunny Eatin’” is slightly similarly constructed but with seemingly fewer devices. It is, however, much more dramatic in its passages. It ends with “Horror Jazz #1 - Horror Jazz for Real Estate Sales,” which actually sounds like it’s being performed backwards. This whole thing is like a painting that gets more and more detailed the longer you stare at it. So start staring over at frenchexit1.bandcamp.com.

HIGHER EDUCATION: David Barbe (Mercyland, Sugar, Buzz Hungry, et al) released a new live EP last week courtesy of Orange Twin It’s titled Any Better and It Would Be Worse, and it’s a live electric set from his AthFest performance at Flicker Theatre and Bar. He’ll be heading out on tour to promote it, too, with most of his shows seeing him opening for his former bandmate in Sugar, Bob Mould. The five tracks here are from several of Barbe’s releases, and their selection was pretty spontaneous as Barbe does not use set lists for these types of performances. Notable is his ability to wring every bit of emotional heft out of these songs with merely an electric guitar and his voice. Longtime Barbe listeners will be particularly edified to hear “The Grey Machine” from 1995’s Buzz Hungry album At The Hands Of Our Intercessors. Find this online wherever you generally find your music, including orangetwinrecords.bandcamp. com. For more information, please see orangetwin.com. f

feature

Arthur Buck 2 JOSEPH ARTHUR AND PETER BUCK REUNITE FOR PURE ROCK ALBUM

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

Ata time when so much music can feel overthought and even overproduced, there’s comfort in the release of a rock album that just strives to carry that rock-and-roll spirit, created by friends who are all well- versed and well-respected in the industry. When singer- songwriter Joseph Arthur and guitarist Peter Buck released their first collaborative album in 2018, it just sort of happened—now here we are in 2025, and it just sort of happened again.

Arthur Buck 2 will be available this Friday, Oct. 3, via Arthur’s own Lonely Astronaut Records. While the first album was a very spontaneous “bedroom production,” Arthur says that although this album came about organically in its own way, it’s more of a full-band, in- studio record. The duo was joined by keyboardist/multi-instrumentalist Gregg Foreman, bassist Scott McCaughey and drummer Linda Pitmon in the making and recording of this set of songs. Then the group was joined by Grammy Award- winning producer Jacknife Lee in the studio.

it forward a little bit. We don’t want to just go, ‘Let’s do something like what we’ve heard before,’ you know, but obviously not shy away from all of our strengths. Which, in Peter’s case, obviously has had an enormous cultural impact. So some of those tones and colors are in there for sure. And then, you know, Linda and Scott and Gregg are fantastic. Then you put Jacknife to mix the whole thing and add his inventiveness to it, it’s gonna have a modern twist to it,” says Arthur.

When it comes to playing to strengths, Arthur likes to work on instinct with the elements at hand, which he’s had to exercise a lot for this particular project and its rollout. The pro of working with an accomplished set of musicians is also its con— they tend to be busy and scattered. Case in point, Arthur picked up the phone for his interview with Flagpole in Paris, where he had just flown in earlier that morning. Currently on tour in Europe, Arthur and his tour manager have been shooting DIY

“There wasn’t, like, ‘Oh, and then we’ll do a second record.’ But I think we liked the way [Arthur Buck] came out, and so we decided to go tour it,” says Arthur. “This time, the process was more on the road, and we just wrote songs, and would do them live, and got the arrangements up and running live. So they’re really very different records, sort of two different methods of making records.”

Arthur knowingly describes himself and his bandmates as “forward- thinking people, but also steeped in a classic mindset,” which shines through in the almost effortlessly rock-and-roll execution of the songs. But Lee’s presence as the producer is also strongly felt in this particular project. As an inventive producer, Lee didn’t exactly lay back into the “classic mindset” for this record. Arthur explains that Lee is into experimenting with different kinds of cheap tape decks, so he would run the whole mix through one of the machines for a lo- fi sound, then bring it back into super high fidelity.

“We’re probably always trying to push

music videos for the released singles to keep the momentum going.

“Creativity, I think, thrives with limitation, you know? If you put perfectionism to the side, it’s like, we’re on this tour right now; I’m out here alone. We need a promo clip. You could overthink that and go like, ‘Oh, well, let’s not do one, because we can’t all be together doing it.’ We’re creating stuff in spite of the fact that we’re in different parts of the world,” says Arthur.

From the album to the music videos and even the album cover, there’s an organic simplicity that creates a cohesion in feeling despite how disjointed the production of the elements might have been. It shines in passion while delivering an expansion of what could be considered classic rock for the modern times.

“From my perspective, I think it’s a really good rock-and-roll record. I think it’s fun,” says Arthur. “In this day and age, a good rock-and-roll record is kind of a cool thing, especially, you know, when you got the kind of people involved that are involved, it’s cool.” f

AJ Griffin

Peter Buck and Joseph Arthur

live music calendar

Tuesday 30

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $19 (adv.), $21. www.40watt.com

DEERHOOF Experimental indierock outfit that formed in San Francisco, CA in 1994 and became widely influential for its self-produced albums.

MR. [REDACTED] Local band with new brakes and tires.

BAD KILL New local punk rock band.

The Foundry

7–10 p.m. FREE! www.hotelabacus athens.com

OPEN MIC Hosted by Libbaloops, share music, comedy, poetry or stories.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $26.40. www.georgiatheatre.com

ZINDELPHIA Philadelphia-based singer and guitarist who blends neo-soul, jazz, funk and folk into a timeless sound.

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

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

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

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $52–84. pac.uga.edu

AUGUSTIN HADELICH Violinist known for his phenomenal technique, insightful and persuasive interpretations and ravishing tone. Normal Bar

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

OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.

WUOG

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

DOG FIGHT Screamo band that’s all bark no bite. The World Famous 9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous athens

LOTHARIO The visceral, razoredged solo project of Melbourne, Australia’s Annaliese Redlich.

OBSCURITY Noise and synth-punk band.

CRYING FORM Local hardcore punk trio.

Wednesday 1

40 Watt Club

Attaboy Tapes Presents. 7 p.m. (art market), 8 p.m. (show). www.40watt.com

CRUISE CONTROL Twangin’ rock and roll from Portland, OR.

ZACH RITTER AND THE ETERNAL SOUP The quietest band in town.

ROWAN NEWBY Poetic and humorous Americana music inspired by ’60s and ’70s songwriting. THE FALLING SPIKES Loud, dumb rock and roll.

Athentic Brewing Co. 7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday. Ciné

7 p.m.

$12. www.athenscine.com

DANCING PLAGUE Dark electro from Portland, OR.

DILDOX LA-based industrial postpunk.

OBSCURITY Local synth-punk duo.

Singles release show!

RAUNCHER Project blending electronic, house and bass music.

Creature Comforts

Brewery

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

HIBBS FAMILY BAND Quartet of family members combining the textures and rhythms of bluegrass and folk music with alt-rock melodic sensibilities and lyricism. (6 p.m.) El Paso Tacos & Tequila

6–11 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss

KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY

Every Wednesday.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

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

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $13.90. www.georgiatheatre.com

POLAR WAVES Alternative and punk rock band led by singer-songwriter Julio Duran.

Hendershot’s 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.hendershots athens.com

OPEN MIC Hosted by Liz Farrell the first Wednesday of every month. Sign up online.

Hugh Hodgson School of Music

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

HORN STUDIO RECITAL Creative community of UGA horn players where each student is encouraged to find their own niche.

MaiKai Kava Lounge

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

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

Porterhouse Grill

7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com

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

Thursday 2

Bolo Bolo Athens

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 suggested donation. www.instagram.com/bolo.bolo.ath

VERNAL SCUZZ Birmingham outfit of small label Sweet Wreath, somewhere between proto-punk and primeval ceremony.

NERVE GLYPHS Athens duo George Davidson on tenor sax and Jay Gonzalez (Drive-by Truckers) on guitar, improvising atmospheres of healing and uplift.

SALMON TUBES Athens electroacoustic improvisational duo Jon Vogt and Kyle MacKinnel, transporting salmon upstream.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Attaboy Tapes Presents. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flickertheatre andbar.com

MOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Hunter

Morris (Hunter Morris & Blue Blood, Gift Horse) leads a new band with Drew Beskin, Nick Robbins and Phillip Brantley.

JAKE MCKELVIE Massachusettsbased musician whose indie-rock melodicism slow dances with altcountry ramble.

topics like veggies and exercise that make kids want to dance.

Nowhere Bar

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

TRU PHONIC Band playing a mix of jam, funk, blues, rock, soul, jazz and hip hop.

Ramsey Hall

3:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu

GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring pianist Chih-Long Hu.

WILTING PAGES Musical alias of multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter Lander Combs.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $38.24. www.georgiatheatre.com

BRAXTON KEITH Texas native with an earnest love of the ’80s country aesthetic leading a revival of the genre’s core creative tenants.

The Globe

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

MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-HOTS

Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.

Hendershot’s

8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY

Enjoy singing and dancing for all.

Hotel Indigo

Live After Five. 5:30–8 p.m. www. indigoathens.com

WADE HUDSON The original rockin’ real estate agent.

Hugh Hodgson Concert

Hall

7:30 p.m. $6 (w/ UGA ID), $23. pac. uga.edu

UGA JAZZ ENSEMBLES WITH MICHELE CORCELLA An evening of music composed by multiaward-winning composer, arranger and conductor Michele Corcella. Normal Bar

Attaboy Tapes Presents. 5 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/normal_bar_ athens

THE PG SHOW A campy, creative rock and roll band with songs about

MICHAEL JOE WHITE If Pete Seeger had an amphetamine issue. El Paso Tacos & Tequila

7 p.m.–12 a.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss

KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY Every Friday. Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

DEAD TOOTH Post-punk self-proclaimed “rodeo-core” band based out of Queens, NY.

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

VIV AND THE THINGS Alternative country noise for sweetie pies.

The Foundry

Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (w/ student ID), $12 (adv.), $15. bit.ly/ TheFoundryOct3

GUARDIANS OF THE JUKEBOX

Tribute to MTV’s pop, rock, new wave and new romantic era.

Normal Bar

Spectacular Burnin Dance Party. 8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ normal_bar_athens

DJ NATE & DJ KURT WOOD Two local vinyl hounds bringing you all the best ’60s soul platters that matter for your dancing pleasure.

DJ BOTTOM SHELF Atlanta-based vinyl dance party host.

Nowhere Bar

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

DALLAS WAX Blending punk rock, psychedelia and blues with a raucous live performance.

Oak House Distillery

7 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery.com

RON HENDON Local saxophonist. The Root

The Roadhouse 9 p.m. www.instagram.com/road houseathens

THE REGULARS A Southern stew of funk, soul, blues and rock and roll.

The World Famous 9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous athens

TEE VEE REPAIRMANN Australiabased egg punk power pop project helmed by Ishka Edmeades.

PETER AND THE SKEETERS Local lo-fi egg punk group. GNATS Miami, FL punk. THE SKIPPERS Secular psych rock from Athens.

Friday 3

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $29.50 (adv.), $33. www.40watt.com

PANCHIKO British indie-rock band originally formed in the late ’90s that gained a cult following when one of its demo EPs was found in a charity shop in 2016.

GLIXEN Shoegaze band from Phoenix, AZ whose sound consists of tender melodies encased inside chrome walls of grungy textures and heavy guitars.

Buvez

8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens

HEIDI HUELSKOETTER American country artist whose songs depict her journey.

ticipation and off-kilter comedy into her sets.

PONDGORL Athens-based artist Laila Li McCleery joins genre-bending friends in a band of beautiful, harmonious DIY glory.

SONGS FOR SLEEPING DOGS Ambient project led by Ben Hackett. Front Porch Bookstore

6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook THE WELFARE LINERS Fivepiece local bluegrass unit blending classic tunes with melodic, highlonesome originals.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

4 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com

KIND HEARTED STRANGERS Rock and roll band based out of Nashville, originally formed by songwriter Marc Townes. Hendershot’s 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.hendershots athens.com

CLASSICAL REVOLUTION Open classical play by local musicians.

OCAF

OCAF Music Series. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $15 (OCAF members), $20 (non-members). www.ocaf.com

MARTY WINKLER AND FRIENDS Singer incorporating jazz, Americana, folk, cabaret, blues and more. You name it, she can sing it! OVERIA Trio featuring Tony Oscar on percussion, LeaLea on vocals and guitar, and Freeman Leverett on guitar and vocals.

Publica Coffee Roasters 6:30 p.m. Donations suggested. www. publicacoffee.com

PARKER MILLSAP An iconic songwriting troubadour who has performed with the likes of Elton John and Jason Isbell.

8:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA MIXTAPE Cover band dedicated to hits from the ’90s, including grunge, rock, R&B, pop, country and rap.

Saturday 4

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $20 (adv.), $25. www.40watt.com

COLE GOODWIN Georgia country artist who writes songs that hold firm roots in stories of the old South.

KENNY WHITMIRE Country singer-songwriter from Georgia. CAM SMITH Country singer-songwriter and guitarist. Athentic Brewing Co. 6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

JIMEE STOUNE Performing blues, country and rock.

Bishop Park

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

DAVE FORKER Custom Concern member plays originals and covers. (8 a.m.)

JOHN DOSTER Americana musician playing guitar and mandolin. (10 a.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Attaboy Tapes Presents. 8 p.m. (doors). $12. www.flickertheatre andbar.com

DOLPHIN GROUP Aquatic synthpop band from Chattanooga, TN.

JOSEY Athens-based indie pop artist, incorporating audience par-

JULIA BARFIELD Young singersongwriter with roots in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. The Root 10 p.m. FREE! www.therootathens.com

SILENT DISCO Grab a pair of headphones, choose a music channel and dance the night away.

Sunday 5

Buvez

8 p.m. $8. www.instagram.com/ buvez_athens BIG SHOW AND DANCE Rhythm and blues band.

M’UMBO GUMBO Genre-bending sound.

The Classic Center 7 p.m. $75–423. www.classiccenter. com.

ZZ TOP Classic rock band formed in Houston, TX in 1969 by vocalistguitarist Billy Gibbons and drummer Frank Beard, known for hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin’” and “Sharp Dressed Man.”

JIVE MOTHER MARY Rock trio from North Carolina forged through deep friendships, long van rides and countless hours sharpening their skills in smoky bars.

Five Bar

11 a.m.–2 p.m. www.five-bar.com

SWING THEORY Local jazz trio playing brunch every Sunday. The Globe 4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens

TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION Easy listening traditional Irish music.

ZZ Top will perform at The Classic Center Theatre on Sunday, Oct. 5.

Hendershot’s

7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

SEABOARD BRIDGE Athens rock trio. EP release show!

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

3 p.m. FREE! pac.uga.edu

ACADEMY OF ST. MARTIN IN THE FIELDS CHAMBER ENSEM-

BLE Performing French composer Jean Francaix’s frisky yet delicate Octet and Beethoven’s rich and shimmering Septet in E-flat Major, Op. 20.

No. 3 Railroad Street

6 p.m. Donations suggested. www.3railroad.org

BETSY SCOTT Actress turned songwriter sharing originals, stories and spoken word. Terrapin Beer Co.

3–5 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com

JIM COOK High-energy solo blues, classic rock and roots music. Every first Sunday.

White Tiger Gourmet

Sundance Party. 7–9 p.m. www.instagram.com/whitetigerathens

LIBBALOOPS Electronic musician and looping artist who loves to be silly and get “loopy doopy.”

Monday 6

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

ASHER WHITE Multi-instrumentalist, producer, visual artist and writer currently touring for the release of 8 Tips for Full Catastrophe Living YOUR EX’S PETS Haunting, groovy, soft-loud songs with rich vocal harmonies and layered arrangements.

DADGUM Jazz-pop for enlarged hearts.

Madison Morgan Cultural Center

7 p.m. FREE! www.mmcc-arts.org

OPEN MIC NIGHT First Mondays. Madison-Morgan Cultural Center

The Hall on Foster. 7 p.m. FREE! (performers), $5. www.mmcc-arts.org

OPEN MIC NIGHT New open mic series for music, spoken word, comedy, poetry and everything in between. Held the first Monday of each month.

Porterhouse Grill

7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Tuesday 7

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $18 (adv.), $25. www.40watt.com

JORDY SEARCY Indie-pop musician whose music contains religious themes.

Hendershot’s

No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.” Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

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

UGA GLEE CLUBS & UNIVER-

SITY CHORUS UGA’s largest mixed choral ensemble and glee clubs composed of undergraduate and graduate music majors, minors and students from majors across the university, both conducted by Colin Mann.

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

OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday. Ramsey Hall

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

GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring guitarist Isaac Bustos. WUOG

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

MATT KNOX For fans of Elvis Costello, friends of Dorothy, and Men of the Cloth, maximalist power-pop meets a confused upbringing.

Wednesday 8

Athentic Brewing Co.

7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday. Creature Comforts

Brewery

Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! 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.)

El Paso Tacos & Tequila

6–11 p.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss

KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY

Every Wednesday.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

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

Georgia Theatre

6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $71.83. www.georgiatheatre.com

THE HEAD AND THE HEART Influential indie-folk band formed in Seattle, WA in 2009 that recently released its sixth studio album, Aperture

HURRAY FOR THE RIFF RAFF

Alternative folk/Americana project of Alynda Segarra.

Hendershot’s

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

BEATS, RHYMES AND LIFE

OPEN MIC Emcees, poets, rappers and freestylers of all styles are invited to perform with the backing band playing the tempo of their choice.

MaiKai Kava Lounge

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

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

Porterhouse Grill

7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Ramsey Hall

5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu BRASS HONORS RECITAL UGA brass ensemble performs.

Down the Line

10/09 Jim & Jack (Hotel Indigo)

10/09 Music in the House (Lyndon House Arts Center)

10/09 The Head and the Heart, Hurray for the Riff Raff (Georgia Theatre)

10/10 (Nice Dream), William & the Really Nothings (40 Watt Club)

10/11 Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreational Industry (Front Porch Bookstore)

10/14 Stephen Day (40 Watt Club)

10/14 Dog Person (WUOG) f

event calendar

Tuesday 30

COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com

FILM: Zombie Problems Double Feature (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of two zombie themed films. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com

THEATER: The Revolutionists (Morton Theatre) UGA Theatre presents a darkly comedic play set during the French Revolution, bringing together four unlikely heroines. Oct. 1–2, 8 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $18. www.ugatheatre.com

Wednesday 1

ART: Artful Conversation: Zebedee Armstrong (Georgia Museum of Art) Mallory Lind, associate curator of education, will lead a discussion about Zebedee B. Armstrong’s “Calendar on VW Hubcap.” 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

ART: Opening Reception (Athentic Brewing Co.) Landscape and still life works by Sonja Amor will be on view. 5–7 p.m. www.athentic brewing.com

CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 10 a.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play

CLASSES: Open Master Class (Ramsey Hall) Violinist Augustin Hadelich will work with UGA violin students. 10 a.m. FREE! pac.uga. edu

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

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

EVENTS: Vaccination Panel Town Hall (ACC Library) Learn about recent developments with vaccine access and ask questions of the panel consisting of local doctors. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

EVENTS: Attaboy Tapes Presents Art Market & Show (40 Watt Club) Browse local art vendors with live music by Cruise Control, Zach Ritter and the Eternal Soup, Rowan Newby and The Falling Spikes. 7 p.m. (art market), 8 p.m. (show). www.40watt.com

FILM: Boots and Brews Halloween Movie Series (Athentic Brewing Co.) Sci-fi double screening of Predator and Alien. 5:30–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A disfigured man becomes obsessed with a student at his sister’s boarding school while grappling with his own dark past in Bloody Moon. 7 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/bloodeverywhere. athens

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6

art around town

ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 500) Heaven4theYoung presents “The Uncanny Valley” featuring ceramics, oils and watercolors by Frances Thrasher. On view Oct. 16 through January 2026. Opening reception Oct. 16, 6–9 p.m.

AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) Works by artist Camille Hayes on view through October.

ATHENAEUM (287 W Broad St.) In the main gallery, Krista Clark’s “assembly” presents a site-specific installation informed by the politics and poetics of the urban built environment. • In the second gallery, Steven Thompson’s “Ever Loyal, Ever True” features recent work that merges handmade pigments, rococo color and symbolic structures. Through Nov. 22.

ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) Landscape and still life works by Sonja Amor on view through November. Opening reception Oct. 1, 5–7 p.m.

ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) In “Smoke & Mirrors” Courtney Khail’s paintings play with ink blots as a projection of our subjectivity and bias. Through Oct. 25.

DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) In the Lupin Gallery, “Mountain Tongue” by Aidan Koch reimagines her short story “Man Made Lake” as a handdrawn wall work. Through Nov. 14. • In the Margie E. West Gallery, “The Body Politic” surveys two decades of work by Kristine Potter. Through Nov. 14. • In “NEOLOGISMS,” Ukraine-born artist slinko transforms a New York Times investigation into the disappearance of certain words from federal language in the Plaza Gallery. Through Nov. 14. • Located in the Suite Gallery, “Not Here/Not Now” is a group exhibition that explores speculative fiction. Through Nov. 14. • In the Bridge Gallery, Effy Wang’s “The Sweetest Meat in This Abattoir” features large-scale abstract paintings and hybrid sculptural forms. Opening reception Oct. 9, 5–7 p.m. Through Nov. 14.

FOYER (135 Park Ave.) “ONLY FANS,” by Jack Jiggles, showcases restored vintage electric fans transformed into elegant kinetic sculptures. On view by appointment through Oct. 26.

GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) asinnajaq’s “Three Thousand” combines archival videos from the National Film Board of Canada with animations, soundscapes and contemporary video footage. Through June

p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia

GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. indigoathens.com

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

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

GAMES: “The Office” Trivia (B&B Theatres) Test your knowledge of the popular TV show. 7:30 p.m. www.bbtheatres.com

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

KIDSTUFF: Ready, Set, Grow (Aaron Heard Community Center) Ms. Toya will lead the hands-on program “LEGO Edition.” Ages 3–6. 10 a.m. $3 (ACC resident), $4.50 (non-resident). www.accgovga. myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: Story Time (Oconee County Library) Drop in for songs, fingerplays and early literacy skills. Ages 3–7. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

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

LECTURES & LIT: Word of Mouth (The Globe) Spoken word open mic. This month’s featured reader Kodac Harrison. 7 p.m. (sign-ups), 8 p.m. (poetry). FREE! www.facebook.com/athenswordofmouth

MEETINGS: Greater Athens Libertarian Party (Akademia Brewing Co.) Fellowship with others of likeminded politics. First Wednesdays, 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenslp. square.site

OUTDOORS: Sunset Bat Watch (Dudley Park) Watch the resident bats take flight for the night. Registration required. 7 p.m. FREE! www. mindfulnessmeetups.com

THEATER: The Revolutionists (Morton Theatre) UGA Theatre presents a darkly comedic play set during the French Revolution, bringing together four unlikely heroines. Oct. 1–2, 8 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $18. www.ugatheatre.com

Thursday 2

ART: Opening Reception (Lyndon House Arts Center) Celebrate the gallery’s new fall exhibitions from artists Sebastian Garcia Huidobro, Rachel Lea Seaburn, Didi Dunphy, Sachi Rome, Tokie Rome-Taylor, Katie Kameen and Susan Perry. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgov. com/lyndonhouse

CLASSES: S.T.E.M. Tech & Play (Howard Park & Community Center) Persons with developmental disabilities are invited to explore technology online or with friends. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.accgovga. myrec.com

EVENTS: Native Plant Sale (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Browse plants for sale, and experts will answer questions about incorporating native plants into every space. Oct. 2–3, 2–6 p.m. Oct. 4, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! botgarden. uga.edu

EVENTS: Athentic Farmers Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Weekly market featuring vendors Diamond

28, 2026. • “Looking Through a Sewn Sky: Rachel B. Hayes” is a commissioned installation in the Jane and Harry Willson Sculpture Garden that blends sculpture, painting and craft. Through Jul. 30, 2027. JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Works by collage artist Susan Pelham are on view through November.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) In the West Gallery, “Interwoven Narratives: Caul and Response” is a collaborative work by twin sisters Sachi Rome and Tokie Rome-Taylor. Using photographic realism and abstract expressionism, the exhibit explores southern folklore surrounding the caul and the concept of double consciousness. Through Jan. 24, 2026. • In the lower and upper atrium, “Seams to Be: New Approaches to Textile Techniques” features works by 13 Georgia artists. Through Jan. 24, 2026. • The Lobby Case features Susan Perry’s small-scale sculptures created from handmade paper and bamboo. Through Dec. 6. • In the Atrium Cases, Artist Katie Kameen recontextualizes plastic pieces to create new forms in her exhibit “Plastic Tense.” Through Jan. 24, 2026. • A two-person exhibition featuring the abstract sculptural paintings of Sebastian Garcia Huidobro alongside the brutalist architecture-inspired sculptures of Rachel Lea Seburn will be on display in the South Gallery. Through Jan. 24, 2026. Opening reception for all of the above Oct. 2, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • In the Lukasiewicz Gallery, Chris Moss and Sue Fox’s “Habit” offers parallel explorations of form and color. The two have not met prior to the opening of this exhibition. Through Oct. 11. • An exhibition by Cuban-born artist Victor Francisco Hernandez Mora features vivid illustrations of Orishas. On view in the North Gallery through Oct. 11.

OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) “Forging Connections: Metal Art Inspired by the Marine Carbon Cycle” features jewelry and metalwork by Barbara Mann. Through Oct. 31 • “Teaching Through Creation” is a diverse display featuring contributions by local educators. Through Oct. 31.

OCONEE LIBRARY (1925 Electric Ave., Watkinsville) In the main galleries “Southern Cemetery: Tales & Tombstones” explores rural Southern cemeteries through the images of local photographer Jennifer Keene. An extension of the exhibit in the hallway cases features historic and current literature and photographs. Through Nov. 3.

STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave) “Up in the Trees” by local artist Meredith Raiford Akins showcases colorful nature-

Hill Farms, Normaltown Bread Company, Katie Bee Honey, Flossie May Forage and Grand Designs Woodworking. Thursdays, 4–7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: Ladies Night Out (Boutier Winery & Inn) Enjoy a night of dancing with wine, beer and a buffet. First Thursdays, 6:30–9:30 p.m. $20. www.boutierwinery.com

FILM: Princess Tam Tam (Georgia Museum of Art) Screening of the 1935 French film starring Josephine Baker. 7 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org

GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this weekly game of chance. Thursdays, 5 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.facebook.com/vfw2872

GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. facebook.com/baddogathens

GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Todd Henderson. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnys pizza.com

GAMES: Love.Craft Bingo Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) A bingo event benefiting the nonprofit organization Love.Craft Athens. 6:30–8 p.m. $3–5. www.lovecraftathens.org

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia

KIDSTUFF: Toddler Thursday (OCAF) Drop in for grab-and-go crafting, storytime or to look at art. Ages 2–5. 10 a.m. FREE! (members), $5 (non-members). www. ocaf.com

KIDSTUFF: Little Learners (Howard Park & Community Center) Explore numbers, colors, letters and more through hands-on activities, creative play and social time with new

friends. Ages 2–5. 10 a.m. $2 (ACC residents), $3 (non-residents). www.accgovga.myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: 123 Toddler & Me (Lay Park Community Center) Bond with your toddler using fun gym games, arts and crafts, and kitchen goodies. 10 a.m. $3 (ACC residents), $4.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga. myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: Toddler Thursday (OCAF) Drop in for a mix of staffled and self-led activities or to look at art. Ages 5 & under. 10 a.m. FREE! (members), $5 (non-members). www.ocaf.com

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

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

MEETINGS: Disco Hills Skate Club (Firefly Trail, Winterville) Join the group to socialize or exercise while skating outdoors. Thursdays, 6:45 p.m. FREE! Find Disco Hills Outdoor Skate Club on Facebook

MEETINGS: Oconee Rivers Audubon Society (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Guest speakers present on topics ranging from conservation to paleontology. First Thursdays, 7 p.m. FREE! www.oconeerivers audubon.org

PERFORMANCE: Starin’ at and Spittin’ Down…the Abyss (Ciné) An original solo performance on personal mortality by Ray Paolino. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenscine. com

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tues-

inspired works that blend her love of art and the outdoors. Through Oct. 5. STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Steffen Thomas: Exploring His Brotherhood Credo.” Through Jan. 3, 2026. • “Tribute to Richard “Ole” Olsen.” Through Jan. 3, 2026. • “Steffen Thomas Through the Eyes of Young Adults” on display in the Educational Gallery. Final date TBA. • “1972 Trip to Germany” highlights art inspired by Thomas’ trip overseas. Final date TBA.

TAYLOR GRADY HOUSE (634 Prince Ave.) “Quilt & Lace” features antique and contemporary quilts and laceworks displayed throughout the historic home. On view Oct. 3–12. Opening reception Oct. 3, 5 p.m. $15 entry fee. First Annual “Airing of the Quilts Ceremony” enacts traditional methods of bringing textile art outdoors. Local quilters are invited to bring their works to display and discuss. Oct. 5, 1–4 p.m.

TAPPED ATHENS (297 Prince Ave.) Local artist Will Eskridge’s exhibition “Beach Bumz” celebrates “all things sun-soaked, wave-crashed and goodvibes-only.” Through November.

THE ROOK & PAWN (294 W. Washington St.) A photography series by Jennifer Keene that highlights funerary art, cemetery symbolism, ghostly tales and regional history. Extended through October.

UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.) “Living Legends of Georgia Music,” an exhibition by Georgia-based watercolorist Jackie Dorsey, pays homage to eight iconic musicians. Through Jan. 5, 2026.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “From Farms to Fast Fashion: Unraveling the Need for Sustainable Style.” Through December. • David Zeiger’s photography project “Displaced in the New South” explores the cultural collision between Asian and Hispanic immigrants and the suburban Atlanta communities in the 1990s. Through December. • “Captain Planet: The Power Is Yours” explores the origins and impact of the TV series. Through May 2026. • “Sustained Excellence: A History of UGA Swim & Dive” explores the program’s history through photographs and artifacts. Through May 2026. Free tour offered at 3 p.m. on Oct. 3, Oct. 17, Nov. 14 and Nov. 21.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS CLEMENTS GALLERY (780 Timothy Rd.) The 2nd Annual Invitational Art Exhibit features “The Bounty of the Land” which focuses on the beauty of Earth. Through October.

days, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

THEATER: The Revolutionists (Morton Theatre) UGA Theatre presents a darkly comedic play set during the French Revolution, bringing together four unlikely heroines. Oct. 1–2, 8 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $18. www.ugatheatre.com

Friday 3

ART: Opening Reception (The Taylor-Grady House) “Quilt & Lace” features a display of antique and contemporary quilts and laceworks displayed in historic settings. Light refreshments provided. 5 p.m. $15. www.taylorgrady.com

EVENTS: Opening Reception (Historic Athens Welcome Center) Drop in to enjoy light refreshments and learn about the month’s featured exhibit and tour programming. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenswelcomecenter.com

EVENTS: Native Plant Sale (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Browse plants for sale, and experts will answer questions about incorporating native plants into every space. Oct. 2–3, 2–6 p.m. Oct. 4, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! botgarden. uga.edu

EVENTS: Sustained Excellence (UGA Special Collections Library) Take a curator-led tour of the UGA swim and dive exhibition. 3 p.m. libs.uga.edu

EVENTS: Oktoberfest (Athentic Brewing Co.) Celebrate with traditional German vibes, German fares, a beer release and live music. 5–11 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

EVENTS: Amaro Tasting (Tonique Bottle Co.) Drop in for a flight of three amari plus a cocktail featuring amaro. 5–7 p.m. $15. www.shop tonique.com

EVENTS: Death & Mourning Tour

(Historic Athens Welcome Center)

Explore how families mourned the loss of their loved ones and the differences between funerals for white and enslaved persons. Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 5:30–6:30 p.m. $20. www.athenswelcomecenter.com

EVENTS: UGA Homecoming Parade (Downtown Athens) The annual family-friendly downtown parade celebrates UGA homecoming with a variety of floats and performances. 6 p.m. FREE! els. uga.edu/homecoming

GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a new roleplaying game. New players welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com

KIDSTUFF: 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: Pumpkin Hunt (Lay Park Community Center) Enjoy fall themed games, crafts, face painting and the annual pumpkin hunt. 6 p.m. $3 (ACC residents), $4.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga. myrec.com

LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (Oconee County Library) Best-selling author Kristina McMorris will discuss her newest novel The Girls of Good Fortune exploring the complexity of family and identity. 1 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

THEATER: The Haunting of Hill House (The Winterville Auditorium) Usher in the spooky season with this production based on the classic

horror tale. Oct. 3–4, 7 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $15. www.wintervillecenter. com

THEATER: Into the Woods (Oconee County Civic Center) Performance of the popular Broadway musical weaving together enchanted fairy tales. Oct. 3–4, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4, 2 p.m. Oct. 5, 3 p.m. $22. www. collectiveartistsworkshop.org

THEATER: The Shadow Box (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown Players present a drama about how three very different people face death with hope and support. Oct. 3–4 & 9–11, 8 p.m. Oct. 5 & 12, 2 p.m. $20. www.townandgown players.org

Saturday 4

ART: Open Studio (Southern Star Studio) Check out the studio’s new set-up and browse pieces being cleared out ahead of the holidays. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.southernstar studioathens.com

CLASSES: Adopt-A-Stream Workshop (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Learn more about how to adopt a stream, the qualities of clean water and how to utilize chemical and bacterial monitoring. Registration required. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com

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

EVENTS: Marigold Farmers Market (Pittard Park) Vendors offer organic produce, prepared foods, agricultural products and artisanal goods. MFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. www. marigoldcollectivewinterville.com

EVENTS: Native Plant Sale (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Browse plants for sale, and experts will answer questions about incorporating native plants into every space. Oct. 2–3, 2–6 p.m. Oct. 4, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! botgarden. uga.edu

EVENTS: Tim for Athens Campaign Launch Party (Athentic Brewing Co.) Enjoy music, speakers, crafts, merch and beer with Tim Denson’s official campaign launch for mayor. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.timforathens. com

EVENTS: Indie-Con (Ciné) Workshops, panels, tours and performances aimed at sharing strategies for content creators and networking. 6–11 p.m. $30.80–59.62. www. facebook.com/athfactor

KIDSTUFF: First Saturday Park Play (Ben Burton Park) Family groups can engage in hikes, games and activities to learn, build and explore. 10 a.m. FREE! www. accgovga.myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: Family Day (OCAF) Metal and jewelry artist Barbara Mann will walk families through her exhibit “Forging Connections” with interactive gallery activities and a take-home art project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.ocaf. com/ocaf-kids

MEETINGS: African American Genealogy Shared Interest Group (ACC Library) Learn and share research stories, problemsolving techniques, and tools that are focused on African American genealogy. 10 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

OUTDOORS: Pop-Up Trail Talk (Dudley Park) Learn more about natural spaces in Athens with family-friendly activities, giveaways,

and ways to get involved with the trails. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www. accgovga.myrec.com

OUTDOORS: Landart Class (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Join local naturalist for a guided hike and then create natural art in the forest. 10 a.m. $5 (ACC residents), $8 (nonresidents). www.accgov.com/myrec

PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Drag For All (Hendershots) Enjoy a fabulous night of open drag fun for all ages celebrating Halloween with a costume contest. 8–11 p.m. $5. www. athensshowgirlcabaret.com

PERFORMANCE: High Tea: A Drag Show (Athentic Brewing Co.) Mary Jane hosts a fabulous and hilarious night of drag entertainment. 9 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

SPORTS: UGA vs. Kentucky (Sanford Stadium) Cheer on the Georgia Bulldogs football team as they face the Wildcats. 12 p.m. www.georgia dogs.com

THEATER: Into the Woods (Oconee County Civic Center) Performance of the popular Broadway musical weaving together enchanted fairy tales. Oct. 3–4, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4, 2 p.m. Oct. 5, 3 p.m. $22. www. collectiveartistsworkshop.org

THEATER: The Haunting of Hill House (The Winterville Auditorium) Usher in the spooky season with this production based on the classic horror tale. Oct. 3–4, 7 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $15. www.wintervillecenter. com

THEATER: The Shadow Box (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown Players present a drama about how three very different people face death with hope and support. Oct. 3–4 & 9–11, 8 p.m. Oct. 5 & 12, 2 p.m. $20. www.townandgown players.org

Sunday 5

ART: Airing of the Quilts Ceremony (The Taylor-Grady House) First Annual family friendly event where quilts from the “Celebrate Fall” exhibit are displayed outdoors and local quilters are invited to bring their work. 1–4 p.m. FREE! www. taylorgrady.com

CLASSES: Mah Jongg (Oconee County Library) Adults of all skill levels are invited to learn and play American Mah Jonng. Every Sunday. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee

COMEDY: Comedy Open Mic (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Show up and go up with your stand-up material. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/bulaatmaikai

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

EVENTS: Geeks and Ghouls Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Browse vendors offering Halloween costume pieces, comics, vintage toys, video games and more. 2–6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: Tini Semeria 6th Annual Spark in the Dark 5K (UGA Golf Course) Run, bike, battle board or participate however you’d like, with face painting, bib decorating and music before the race starts. 5:15 p.m. go.evvnt.com/32296190?pid=2810

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www. facebook.com/baddogathens

KIDSTUFF: STEM Day (Oconee County Library) Learn about some of the many science related groups in the area with representatives,

activities and demos. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

LECTURES & LIT: Poetry for the People (Dudley Park) Athens Poet Laureate Mikhayla Robinson Smith and special guests will read poetry. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com

MEETINGS: Crafternoon (Athentic Brewing Co.) Bring your crafting project to work on and connect with other artists in the community. First Sundays, 2:30–4 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

THEATER: The Haunting of Hill House (The Winterville Auditorium) Usher in the spooky season with this production based on the classic horror tale. Oct. 3–4, 7 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $15. www.wintervillecenter. com

THEATER: The Revolutionists (Morton Theatre) UGA Theatre presents a darkly comedic play set during the French Revolution, bringing together four unlikely heroines. Oct. 1–2, 8 p.m. Oct. 5, 2 p.m. $18. www.ugatheatre.com

THEATER: The Shadow Box (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown Players present a drama about how three very different people face death with hope and support. Oct. 3–4 & 9–11, 8 p.m. Oct. 5 & 12, 2 p.m. $20. www.townandgown players.org

THEATER: Into the Woods (Oconee County Civic Center) Performance of the popular Broadway musical weaving together enchanted fairy tales. Oct. 3–4, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 4, 2 p.m. Oct. 5, 3 p.m. $22. www. collectiveartistsworkshop.org

Monday 6

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

KIDSTUFF: Storytime with Miss Harli (Bogart Library) Build early literacy skills through songs, letters, language fun, stories and STEAM. Ages 3–7. Mondays, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Teen Gardening Club (Howard Park & Community Center) Get your hands in the dirt and bring the garden to life. No experience necessary. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www. accgovga.myrec.com

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

MEETINGS: Death Over Drafts (Athentic Brewing Co.) Presentation on cemetery tourism followed by casual de-stigmatizing discussions about all things death and dying while using The Death Deck. RSVP encouraged. 6–8 p.m. organizing death@gmail.com

Tuesday 7

ART: Tuesday Tour (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Join a docent led tour of the State Botanical Garden’s Porcelain and Decorative

Arts Museum. Every Tuesday, 2 p.m. $5. botgarden.uga.edu

CLASSES: ESL (Bogart Library) Learn and improve English skills including speaking, listening, reading and writing. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

CLASSES: Data Centers in Our Backyard (First AME Church) Learn about data centers in our area and their local impact. 4 p.m. FREE! RSVP@sosuin.org

CLASSES: Art Work Workshop (Lyndon House Arts Center) Recipe for Press founder Amy Flurry will teach attendees essential editorial etiquette to get your business/brand publicity. 5:30 p.m. (networking), 6 p.m. (workshop). FREE! www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse

COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

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

GAMES: BINGO Bash (Howard Park & Community Center) Persons with developmental disabilities are invited to play for prizes. Ages 18 & up. Registration required. 12 p.m. $2 (ACC resident), $3 (non-resident). www.accgovga.myrec.com

GAMES: Music Bingo (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Join in to play music BINGO. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.johnnyspizza.com

GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom

Athens

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

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

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

KIDSTUFF: Jumping Gym (Howard Park & Community Center) Explore a bouncy wonderland with big jumps and soft landings. Ages 5 & under. 10 a.m. FREE! www. accgovga.myrec.com

LECTURES & LIT: Historic Athens History Hour (Lyndon House Arts Center) Learn about Latinx history and community with members of DIA, U-LEAD, Pinewoods community and CLASE. 12–1 p.m. FREE! www.historicathens.com

LECTURES & LIT: Bogart Bookies (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters and discuss it with the group. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Normal Talk (Normal Bar) Dr. Eli Sperling, a teaching fellow in UGA’s School of International and Public Affairs, discusses topics on ongoing IsraeliPalestinian conflict. 7:30–9 p.m. FREE! www.normaltalk.org

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 8

ART: Art Works (Lyndon House Arts Center) Persons with developmental disabilities are invited to express themselves through a creative

art activity. 11 a.m. $3 (ACC residents), $4.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga.myrec.com

ART: Faculty Perspectives (Georgia Museum of Art) Susan Rosenbaum will give a gallery talk on the exhibition “Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris.” 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

CLASSES: Senior Shenanigans: How Does This Thing Work? (Lay Park Community Center) A handson class that teaches computer basics, how to navigate cellphones and more. 9 a.m. FREE! www.acc gov.com/myrec

CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 10 a.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play

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

EVENTS: Farm Field Day (Latimer Luck Acres Dairy Goat Farm) The Regenerative Institute of Community Education hosts hands-on activities, guided farm tours and educational workshops covering goat breeds, nutrition and wellness. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. www.rice-georgia.org

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

EVENTS: Winetober Fest Tasting (Tapped Athens Wine Market) Taste a selection of German wines with small plates. 6:30–8 p.m. www. tappedathens.com

FILM: Boots and Brews Halloween Movie Series (Athentic Brewing Co.) Vampire double screening of The Lost Boys and Fright Night 5:30–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

FILM: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1977 horror film Curse of the Dog God. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia

GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. indigoathens.com

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

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

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

KIDSTUFF: Story Time (Oconee County Library) Drop in for songs, fingerplays and early literacy skills. Ages 3–7. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

MEETINGS: C3 to End Homelessness (Hendershot’s) A roundtable discussion regarding housing and homelessness to educate, identify issue and plan steps to solutions. Second Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.athenshc.org/coc f

bulletin board & classifieds

Classifieds

JOBS (Full-time) Seeking a motivated and reliable Carpenter/Assistant for full-time position. Must have own transportation and basic tools. Salary based on experience. Call 706340-1370 for more information.

JOBS (Part-time) Equestrian help needed. Maintain horse/sheep/ llama feeding and stall maintenance. Watkinsville/Athens area. $20/hour. Text or call 706-5344032.

JOBS (Part-time) Hotel Abacus seeks a part-time social media content assistant. Contact Trina Jordan. TJordan@hotelabacusathens.com

MUSIC (Instruction) Athens School of Music. Now offering in-person and online instruction in guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, banjo, mandolin and more. From beginner to expert, all styles. Visit www.athensschoolof music.com. 706-543-5800

MUSIC (Instruction) Group Ukulele Class on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Learn to play your favorite songs and make new friends! Ages 5+. More info at MeritMusicAcademy. com

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

REAL ESTATE (Home for Rent)

3BR/2BA house, HVAC, granite countertops, HW floors, large backyard, nicely renovated. Located in Colbert, 15 minutes from Athens. $1500/mo. Call Tom 706-2471259 for more information.

SERVICES (Home & Garden) Happy Summer! Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible & native focused gardens for your school, home or business! For more info call/text 706-395-5321.

SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in lowmaintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@gmail.com or call 631903-4365.

Arts

ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY

(Athens, GA) The ACD is a free platform to connect creatives with patrons. athenscreatives.directory BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals to develop an art exhibition for LHAC. www.accgov.com/9799/ ArtistCurator

CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls) Seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email an introduction and a few examples of work. careywelsh20@gmail.com

CALL FOR ART (Donderos’) Seeking new artists to exhibit artwork. contact@donderoskitchen.com

CALL FOR ART (Oconee County Library) Seeking local artists to share their artwork in monthly exhibitions. adial@athenslibrary.org

CALL FOR ART (Winterville Library) Apply to be a featured local artist in the Front Room Gallery. The library accepts all 2D mediums. swatson @athenslibrary.org

CALL FOR ARTISTS (ACCGov) Seeking professional artists to submit qualifications for large scale 3D artwork for Tallassee Road roundabout. Deadline Friday, Nov. 7. All entries must be submitted via online portal. www.accgov. com/11626/Public-Art

CALL FOR ARTISTS (MAGallery) Now accepting artist application. MAGallery is a nonprofit cooperative gallery. Gallery Artists work one day a month and participate on a committee. www.themadisonartists guild.org/call-for-artists

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Online) JOKER JOKERtv is accepting proposals from artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can submit ideas. www.jokerjokertv. com/submit

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Winterville Marigold Festival) Submit artwork to be featured on the 2026 Marigold Festival posters, T-shirts and more. Deadline Jan. 1. www.marigold festival.com

CALL FOR MUSICIANS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) The Marigold Market is seeking musicians for upcoming market events. All acts considered. bradley@marigold collectivewinterville.com

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper. Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics and more are welcome. enagementcoordinator@athenshc. org

CALL FOR VENDORS (Athens Library Store) Local artists, artisans and publishers can submit applications for Nov. 29 “Holiday Market.” Deadline Oct. 10. www.friendsofacc library.org

CALL FOR VENDORS (Treehouse Kid and Craft) Seeking artists, crafters and creatives for Oct. 26 “Little Joyfest” market event. Deadline Oct. 10. kristen@treehousekidand craft.com

SEEKING FLOATS & PERFORMERS (ACC Leisure Services) Applications are now open for the annual Downtown Parade of Lights on Dec. 4. Deadline 5 p.m., Nov. 4. $40 application fee. www.accgov.com/ parade

Auditions

ACT’S GOT TALENT (Athens Creative Theatre) Auditions for talent acts and host, Oct. 24. Show held Nov. 7 at the Morton Theatre. Schedule appointments only. 706-613-3628, act@accgov.com

OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Master Chorale) Seeking new members in all voice parts including high sopranos, tenors and basses. Scheduled auditions held at St. Gregory the Great Church. athmcdirector@ gmail.com

OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) Auditions and membership open to qualified musicians able to attend rehearsals and maintain preparation of music. www.athens symphony.org/openings

A SHERLOCK CAROL (Winterville Players) Open auditions for all ages. Oct. 14–15, 6 p.m. at Marigold Auditorium in Winterville. Performances held Dec. 13–15. wintervillecampus@gmail.com

Classes

ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 & up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com

ADULT KICKBALL (Bishop Park) OutLoud Sports LGBT+ kickball league begins Oct. 4 and runs for 8 weeks. Ages 21 & up, all skill levels. $50 all sessions. www.outloud athens.leagueapps.com

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

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

(Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-person classes. Topics include “Affordable Housing Info” and “Homebuyer Education Course.” www.athenslandtrust.org/classesevents

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

(Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation, Watkinsville) OCAF offers a number of classes including painting,

ceramics, textile dying, fashion design and more. ocaf.com/courses

CLOWNING (The Studio Athens) Chase Brantley teaches a class on play and failure for ages 17 & up. Sundays, 4–6 p.m. through Nov. 16. $190/series, $35 drop-in. Scholarships available. www. instagram.com/moonlight_theater_ company

CUBAN MUSIC & MOVEMENT (The Studio Athens) TIMBAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Sundays, 3 p.m. (Level 1), 4 p.m. (Level 2 & 3), 5 p.m. (Advanced). Through Dec. 7, no class Oct. 19. $10 drop-in. timbathens@gmail.com, www. timbathens.com

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

DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/myrec

DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY SKILLS WORKSHOP (Heart StoneTherapeutic Healing) Learn specific skills to manage emotions, improve relationships and more. Fridays, 12 p.m. Through Oct. 17. Info@Heartstoneth.com

FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfreeschool on Instagram.

GUIDED GARDEN TOURS (UGA Botanical Garden) Learn about various plants at a guided walk for groups of less than 10. Every Tuesday–Friday, 11 a.m. $5 per person. botgarden.uga.edu

HOW TO DO BUSINESS (ACC Library) Workshops to help businesses navigate the vendor process for local organizations. Oct. 8, Athens-Clarke County Government. Oct. 15, University of Georgia. Oct. 22, Clarke-County School District. Registration required. www.accgov. com/doingbusiness

SENIOR WORKOUT SERIES (ACC Leisure Services) A six week program for ages 55 & up. Tuesdays through Oct. 7 at 1 p.m. www. accgov.com, 706-613-3800

SPORTS OF ALL SORTS (ACC Leisure Services) A program for adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities to experience new sports, skill development and cooperative play. Staff will be present to assist with facilitation and provide adaptations for skill development. If one-on-one supervision is needed, a caregiver should be present for the duration of the program. “Tennis Time” (Oct. 1), “Gymnastics for All” (Oct. 21, Nov. 4), “Basketball Workout” (Oct. 23) and “Let’s Play Ball” (Nov. 3). www.accgov.com, 706-613-3800

Help Out

ANIMAL SERVICES VOLUNTEER

(Animal Services Adoption Center) Volunteers needed for daily interactions with the shelter dogs. Sessions run Monday through Friday; training session required. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. www.tidycal.com/animalservices volunteer

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

ATHENS SKATEPARK PROJECT

(Athens Skate Park) Seeking volunteers and community input. Third Sundays. www.athensskatepark project.org

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

COMMUNITY SUPPORT NEEDED

(Historic Athens) A petition to name the park adjacent to the Costa building as the “Richardson-Davis Park” in honor of local African American leaders is now collecting community signatures. Signatures accepted at Welcome Center, by appointment at Old Firehall No. 2 or by special arrangements. www. historicathens.com

COSTUME DONATIONS (The Junior League of Athens) Accepting new and gently used Halloween costumes of all sizes until Oct. 4. Drop-off locations include ReBlossom and Historic Athens. Benefiting Family Promise of Athens. jlathens service@gmail.com

DIAPER DONATIONS (Athens Area Diaper Bank) Diaper donations needed for local infants. All sizes and open packs/boxes are accepted. www.athensareadiaper bank.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT (Friends of Disabled Adults and Children) Free home medical equipment provided to those in need. Athens locations for pickup at Northeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging and Multiple Choices. Donations also accepted. www.fodac.org

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

PET FOOD PANTRY (Animal Services Adoption Center) The Animal Services community pet food pantry provides pet food to ACC residents at no cost. Donations always welcome. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sundays, 12–3 p.m. www.accgov.com/adoptioncenter

SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. the biggervisionshelter@gmail.com, www.bvoa.org/boardmember

SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Moms Adopting Moms) Local nonprofit seeks board members, including a chair and treasurer, to support foster children and families through mentorship and reunification. moms adoptingmoms@gmail.com

SEEKING FOOD DONATIONS (The Cottage) Seeking donations of single-serving, non-perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-off please call 706546-1133, ext 223.

SEEKING SPONSORS & DONATIONS (Kickin’ for a Cause) A variety of team participant, donor and sponsor opportunities available for kickball event benefitting UCBC Cares Foundation. Sunday, Oct. 26. 803-528-5731

SEEKING VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR (AthFest) Seeking a volunteer KidFest Coordinator for the 2026 AthFest event. Planning meetings run January through July. www. athfest.com/kidfest, events@athfest educates.org

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Athens Farmer Market) Seeking volunteers for various shifts at the 2025 Autumn Harvest Feast. Thursday, Oct. 8 from 1–4 p.m. and Sunday, Oct.12 from 8 a.m.–9 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net/volunteer

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (KACCB) Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful has volunteer opportunities that include roadside cleanups, adopta-ramp and more. www.keepathens beautiful.org

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Meals on Wheels) Currently recruiting volunteers to deliver meals, engage in safety checks and more. eschley@ accaging.org

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Shoal Creek Sanctuary) Volunteers needed for variety of events including invasive plant removal, plant adoptions and more. First Sundays, 1–3:30 p.m. www.shoalcreek sanctuary.org/volunteer

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle) A variety of volunteer, donor and sponsor opportunities available. Saturday, Oct. 26. www.wildrumpus.org

TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store. Please bring credentials. www. accgov.com/trs

TOWELS FOR ANIMALS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and hand rags for bathing animals and cleaning kennels. Donations can be dropped off at the door after hours. www.accgov.com/ animalservices

VOLUNTEER NETWORK (Community Works, Watkinsville) A nonprofit organization that connects volunteers of all ages to events, resources and training opportunities. CWorksOC@gmail.com

ages 5–12 focused on hiking, outdoor activities and map making. Next event Oct. 3, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Registration required. www.accgov. com/myrec, 706-613-3800

REDCOAT BAND DAY (5 Lake Herrick Dr.) Students K-12 are invited to the Redcoat field to experience what it’s like to be in the band. Oct. 25. $20. Register by Oct. 8. www. instagram.com/sai_iotazeta

YOUTH PROGRAMS (Sheats Social Services) Registration now open for a variety of weekly programs that provide educational and community support for K-12 students including Rainbow Reading Collective and Strong Beautiful Godly Girls (SBG²) Mentor Program. Volunteers are also needed. www.sheatssocial services.org

Word on the Street

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

BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations located across Athens with tools, an air pump and more. www. accgov.com/10584/Bike-RepairStations

CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box seeks story ideas for upcoming shows. www.rabbitbox.org/tell

COMMUNITY RUNNING GROUPS

(Athens Road Runners) Weekly community runs for all skill levels including “Speed Workout” (Wednesdays, 5:30 a.m.) and “Fun Runs” (Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays, 7:15 a.m.). www.athens roadrunners.org

FILM LOCATION DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The Athens Film Office seeks submissions of potential local sites for production projects. www.athensgafilmoffice.com

FRIDAY EVENTS (Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living) The organization hosts ongoing Friday gatherings. Tech discussions, support groups, movies and games. www.multiplechoices.us/youreinvited

MOVIE MATINEE (ACC Leisure Services) Series of screening events designed specifically for populations with disabilities. Staff will be present to assist with facilitation and provide adaptations for skill development. If one-on-one supervision is needed, a caregiver should be present for the duration of the program. www. accgov.com, 706-613-3800

MICROCHIP SCANNING STATIONS

(Multiple Locations) Connect lost pets with their owners via scanning stations. Available 24 hours. Located at ACC Animals Services, Memorial Park Dog Park and Southeast Clarke Park. Instructions provided at each location.

NETWORKING AND MEETINGS (Integrative Medicine Initiative) Free events for those in the local wellness sector seeking support and educational opportunities. admin@ integrativemedicineinitiative.org

OPEN STUDIOS (Nuçi’s Space) Four sound-treated, climate-controlled rooms available for rent. Equipped with a full PA system, drumkit and Wi-Fi. www.nuci.org

Support Local Journalism

HOMESCHOOL ENRICHMENT PRO-

GRAMS (ACC Leisure Services) Programs for homeschool children ages 5–12 focused on home economics. Oct. 30, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Registration required. www.accgov. com/myrec, 706-613-3800

HOMESCHOOL OUTDOOR

CLASSES (ACC Leisure Services) Programs for homeschool children

SEVENTH GENERATION (No. 3 Railroad Street, Arnoldsville) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts various gatherings on Sundays, 11 a.m. 706-340-7134

VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA)

Seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive. www.vhsordie.com f

scary story contest

Length: 750 words

Topic: Athens-based

Deadline: 2 p.m., Fri. Oct. 10th

Prizes: $50 First, $25 Second, $15 Third

Must Be At Least 16 Years Old To Enter

Winners published in Oct. 29th issue of Flagpole

Email stories to editorial@flagpole.com

Build Fire Station No. 5

I am a 14- year-old Millstone Circle resident writing from the year 2043 to advocate for the Fire Station No. 5 replacement to be built at the recommended location. While at the Eastside Athens Library, I found a stack of old Flagpole magazines from 2025 in the archives. There I read about the push from a small number of vocal residents not to replace the aging fire station in my area.

Oh, how I wish they had not been successful! Oh, how I wish the ACC Commission would have done what is best for the whole community instead of bending to the demands of a few. You see, my house burned down due to one of the ever-increasing lightening storms that began sweeping across the area back in 2035. Then, of course, there is the delayed response to car accidents and medical emergencies that are common now, since the fire department is often the first to respond.

Now we have reduced emergency service coverage for a large chunk of Athens- Clarke County. How unfortunate it is that a small group of residents in 2025 were able to make this decision, not only for all of their neighbors, but also for the families, residents and children of the future who desperately wish they didn’t have to wait those extra few important minutes for a response to their emergencies.

I guess the positive side of it is that, as I sleep in the burned out shell of my home, I am not kept awake by the light pollution from the proposed fire station.

Trevor McDavis Athens

Tell Congress to Regulate AI

Our glorious president, may he live for a thousand years, has once again decreed that he just hates us. I know that’s not news at this point, but giving the tech folks a blank check to do whatever they want with artificial intelligence until society realizes how screwed we are is once more on the docket. He can issue as many royal decrees as he wants, but this would require Congress to actually be set in stone, and we simply cannot let that happen. Its potential to control us is far too immense to let this moment slip away.

Mike Collins is running for higher office, so he might, for the first time in his political career, be open to listening to the will of the people. Believe it or not, Marjorie Taylor Green is on the right side of this one, and she’s also kicking around the idea of running for higher office. Our two U.S. senators will likely be against this one anyway. Write your representatives. The moment to make our voices heard on this one is now.

Bowen Craig Athens

Frustration With Commission Decisions

A handful of Athens- Clarke County Commission decisions, neighborhood chatter and real physical changes to our landscape paint a frustrating picture of Athens. The commission voted against a plan to

build townhomes in Five Points. These were well-designed homes that would have nested well in their neighborhood. Now the project will have fewer homes, or may not come to fruition at all. Our housing shortage is dire.

Residents of the Eastside are decrying the location for a new fire station. Commissioner Patrick Davenport expressed that the new firehouse would lower the quality of life of residents. That stance begs the question: Does your house burning down or you dying from a heart attack while waiting for help improve your quality of life?

Vocal residents of Boulevard and Normaltown do not support the UGA President’s House proposed transformation into a hotel. The proposal is in good faith, preserving much of the building, limiting impacts on the neighborhood and adding assets to our community. Yet, wealthy homeowners of these neighborhoods gag at the whiff of change. The alternatives to the hotel proposal are quite dim. I am not sure what is more morally bankrupt: A building falling apart due to neglect, or a family calling a mansion and five acres home in a town crying out for more homes.

Athens First United Methodist Church has successfully knocked down a building and is in the process of replacing it with a parking lot—just as God intended. Much of the discussion about the Saye Building revolved around saving the building itself, rather than the unholiness of a parking lot. It is disappointing to see a tax-exempt organization tear down a building that could’ve been homes for businesses, community organizations or people, just to replace it with parking for cars. There are rumors that “this is just a parking lot for now, and the church will use that parcel in the future.” A church landbanking and speculating on real estate values in one of the most vibrant parts of our town seems pretty bad.

Local leader and business owner Rashe Malcom saw her plan for a teaching kitchen and community garden ridiculed by commissioners and residents alike. The threat of gentrification and displacement is real, but that cannot lead us to inaction. Gentrification can include many things, but it does not include the planting of 22 trees, improving a community garden, or widening a sidewalk. This is a good project, and it’s sad to see the lack of support.

Taken as a whole, the thesis may be something like this: more parking, less housing and no change. Inspiring!

Ezra Schley Athens

Georgia Is So Much Safer Now

There is an old adage: Ignorance is bliss. And I must say I have apparently been blissfully ignorant. I had no idea that there were 475 rapists and murderers working at the Hyundai plant in Georgia. I feel so much safer now knowing these felons have been apprehended. And to think they were posing as workers in a factory generally believed to be critical to Georgia’s future economic success.

Randy Norris Statham

by Margie E. Burke

by Margie E. Burke

UPCOMING

10.3 – Guardians of the Jukebox: Ultimate 80s time machine – The Foundry

10.10 – The Band Feel w/ Connor Kelly – The Foundry

10.10 – T. Hardy Morris + Tyler Ramsey CoBill – Hendershot’s

10.16 – Caroline Aiken & Yes Ma’am Family Band w/ Danielle Howle – The Foundry

10.16, 11.13 & 12.18 – Rick Fowler Acoustic Blues & Brews residency – Athentic Brewing Co.

10.17 – Stewart & Winfield with Me’an Mills – The Foundry

10.25 – Segar Jazz Affair SMOOTH JAZZ concert #102 with John Dunn & The Jazzman Band – The Foundry

10.25 – Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle – Downtown Athens, GA

11.7 – The Purple Madness (Prince tribute) – The Foundry

11.7 – Michael Guthrie: 60 years of songs & stories – Rialto Club @ Hotel Indigo

11.8 – Rick Fowler Band - The Foundry

11.14 – Kinchafoonee Cowboys – The Foundry

11.20 – JD Graham + Gabe Lee – Rialto Club @ Hotel Indigo

11.21 – Yacht Rock Schooner: Steely Dan show + Yacht Rock hits – The Foundry

11.26 – Tribute to The Band with In Cahoots + Allstar Songwriters in the Round with Randall Bramblett, Levi Lowrey, Caroline Aiken & Fester Hagood Fundraiser for Food Bank of Northeast Georgia – The Foundry

11.29 – Abbey Road LIVE! – The Foundry

12.5 – Tribute to JJ Cale with In Cahoots – The Foundry

12.12 – Night of comedy with Karen Morgan – The Foundry

12.13 – Lera Lynn – The Foundry

12.15 – Good Grief Trio – Marigold Auditorium

12.17 – Tab Benoit with Jesse Dayton – The Foundry

12.18 – Holiday Hustle Club – Marigold Auditorium

12.19 – B.T.B.T.E. (90s tribute) – The Foundry

12.19 – Holiday Hustle Club – Rialto Club @ Hotel Indigo

12.20 – Basketball Team annual Xmas show – The Foundry

12.27 – Randall Bramblett Band annual Holiday Bash – Marigold Auditorium