OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene
CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene
AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson
CONTRIBUTORS Hillary Brown, Gordon Lamb, Rebecca McCarthy, 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
Homewood Hills Housing COMMISSION LIKES SHOPPING CENTER REDEVELOPMENT PLAN
By Blake Aued and Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com
The Athens- Clarke County Commission looks poised to approve mid-rise apartments at the Homewood Hills shopping center despite the misgivings of county planners and some residents.
Atlanta-based Carter is proposing to demolish the back third of the shopping center and build two five- story towers with 234 one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as eight townhouses and an amphitheater. The aging strip mall has poor visibility from Jefferson Road and is no longer viable commercially, according to the developers.
“That particular parcel, property, it’s been sitting for a number of years. It’s become an eyesore, actually, to be honest with you, and I appreciate the developer coming in and really trying to redevelop that project,” said Commissioner Dexter Fisher, who represents the area. Fisher is often opposed to building new multifamily housing but said he was convinced that this development would be for young professionals and medical students, rather than undergrads.
ment that belongs here,” Grace Tuschak said.
Planning staff said the proposal is too out-of- scale with the surrounding singlefamily neighborhoods and should be laid out in a less autocentric grid. They also noted that the applicant is maxing out the allowed residential density for the entire 16-acre
• reallocating $274,000 from a canceled Economic Justice Coalition homelessness program to Athens Area Habitat for Humanity for home construction.
• zoning requests for a self- storage facility on McLung Drive, a restaurant on Hull Road and what neighbors termed a “megachurch” on Smithonia Road near Winterville.
• allowing bars to open on Super Bowl Sunday under a state law letting local governments pick one Sunday a year when bars can open. [Blake Aued]
Move the Multimodal Center?
Athens- Clarke County officials floated the idea of moving the Multimodal Trans -
“The property is definitely ripe for redevelopment,” Commissioner Melissa Link said, but she said the townhouses are just an afterthought, and the plan should include more. The amphitheater should be a more flexible space, too, she said.
The apartments will be market rate. Minutes from the Nov. 6 planning commission meeting indicated that would prevent “undesirable people” from moving in. “Could you elaborate on who the undesirables are just so that, if they’re watching, they know that’s not who we want living there?” Commissioner Tiffany Taylor asked.
Jack Murphy, chief investment officer at Carter, denied using the term “undesirable.” At the planning commission meeting, Bryan Austin, a local commercial real estate agent who is working with Carter on the project, was questioned about why affordable units weren’t included.
“A lot of the neighbors were curious,” Austin responded. “They wanted to make sure it would be market rate and higher priced, because they wanted that kind of quality person living there, and they were concerned [about] who would be living in these apartments.”
Rents will likely be similar to the new apartments at Oak Grove farther down Jefferson Road, Austin said—about $1,500 a month for a one-bedroom and $1,800–$2,000 for a two-bedroom.
No one except the applicants—who are not requesting a rezoning, but a binding planned development (PD) with several variances—spoke at the commission’s Nov. 18 agenda- setting meeting. However, five opposed the request at the planning commission meeting.
“I just think saying ‘yes’ to this is going to be saying ‘no’ to a better proposal down the line that’s going to make this a truly walkable mixed-use town center develop-
property, raising questions about whether the front portion will ever be redeveloped.
Carter representatives have said they can’t demolish the entire shopping center at this time because some tenants, such as La Parilla, have long- term leases. They will be relocated to the remaining 92,000 square feet of commercial space when the other 46,000 square feet are torn down.
The planning commission split 4–3 in recommending approval after three public hearings on the project, which resulted in scaling back one of the apartment buildings and the addition of townhouses, the amphitheater and more parking lot landscaping. A final vote is scheduled for Dec. 2.
Due to rising costs, an inability to relocate utility poles and the conflicting priorities expressed in Link’s 2023 commission-defined option, ACC staff recommended scaling back proposed bike lanes on Barber Street. If approved, a two- way cycle track and sidewalks would run from the Newton Bridge Road/Chase Street intersection to Boulevard, but not all the way to Prince Avenue. Staff determined that between Boulevard and Prince, they could not build the bike lane without removing trees, retaining walls and/or onstreet parking, which Link’s CDO instructed them to avoid. In addition, seven years after the project was conceived, the $7.6 million budget is now only enough to complete two of the four segments.
The commission also discussed:
• preliminary plans for a sidewalk along Vinson Drive.
• revising the county’s short- term rental ordinance to ban STRs in multifamily residential zones, except for those occupied by a long-term tenant or the homeowner, who could continue to operate them with a home business license.
when ACC officials anticipated that a passenger train to Atlanta would run along the tracks there one day. However, that prospect appears dead, at least for the foreseeable future.
The committee is in the process of hiring consulting firm Accenture to create a master plan for an entertainment district around the arena and find developers to lease publicly owned land nearby. Revenue from long- term leases would go toward paying off the bonds that funded the majority of the $170 million project.
David Bradley, president of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, said the committee’s main job is to ensure the bonds are repaid. “That’s a lot of dollars right there,” he said of the multimodal center land.
The arena is operating in the black, with $3.3 million in net revenue for fiscal 2025, from its opening in December 2024 through last June. Corporate support “has been far beyond what we expected,” Classic Center President and CEO Paul Cramer said, with $3.9 million a year in revenue from naming rights and suite rentals. The Classic Center Authority is projected to have enough money to make the bond payments without revenue from land leases until fiscal year 2028. [BA]
ACC Library Holiday Sale
portation Center downtown to make way for new development around Akins Ford Arena.
Commissioner Allison Wright made the suggestion during a Nov. 16 meeting of the Arena District Steering Committee, formed earlier this year to guide development around the new arena. “Does it really need to be there, and does it really need to be that big?” Wright said, especially since ACC has plans to build three transfer stations.
The bus station just east of downtown was originally planned in the late 1990s,
The Athens- Clarke County Library Store has its holiday sale Saturday, Nov. 29 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. The sale includes gently used books at a fraction of their original cost and gifts from local vendors—stocking stuffers to larger presents. Included are garden flags, bookmarks, “Ask a Librarian” sweatshirts, beadwork, plant stands, book stands, cat toys, magnets, art work and crocheted pieces, including book sleeves. The Athens Junior League will be offering its cookbook, Beyond the Hedges, and the League is also selling poinsettias. UGA Press books will be available, and so will publications from Bilbo Books. In addition, shoppers can purchase holiday refreshments, and complimentary wrapping of gift purchases bought at the market will be available. Proceeds will benefit the library.
[Rebecca McCarthy] f
A rendering of proposed apartments at Homewood Hills.
House District 121
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
Itwas the first year of the Trump administration, and a Republicanleaning state House seat was up for grabs in a special election. Shocked, angry and highly motivated Athens Democrats, itching to get back in the voting booth, sent the GOP candidate to defeat.
That’s what happened in a special election for House District 121 in 2017. It could happen again this year.
When state Rep. Marcus Wiedower (R-Watkinsville) resigned his seat a month ago, setting up a special election Dec. 9, it echoed a race eight years ago. Democrat Jonathan Wallace pulled off an upset, winning 57% of the vote against Wiedower and two other Republicans for an open seat.
With Democrats riding high on two landslide victories in Public Service Commission races, it appears history may repeat itself. Clarke County, home to a large number of transient college students, usually lags well behind Oconee County in voter turnout. But turnout for the PSC race was 26% in Oconee and 27% in Clarke. Clarke also skewed even further Democratic than usual, giving Peter Hubbard and Alicia Johnson 84% of the vote. Oconee County also veered left, splitting 60-40 for incumbents Tim Echols and Fitz Johnson.
ocrats invest, organize and compete everywhere, we can’t be counted out anywhere,” Democratic Party of Georgia Chair Charlie Bailey told the Georgia Recorder.
Democrat Eric Gisler lost to Wiedower by more than 20 points in 2024, but if the Dec. 9 special election for House District 121 is anything like the Nov. 4 special election for PSC, Gisler has a real shot at
beating Mack “Dutch” Guest IV, the Republican candidate. State Rep. Houston Gaines (R- Athens) said as much during a recent Athens GOP meeting.
People’s Republic of Clarke County is also part of HD 121. What does that mean to you? Well if you sit this one out it could mean a liberal Democrat as your next state representative,” according to Lee Becker’s blog Oconee County Observations.
Gisler, however, said he sees the Democratic Party as a big- tent party that welcomes former Republicans who don’t accept the belief that Donald Trump is inviolable. “People who were in that [MAGA] tent before that became the rule, I don’t think they’re very comfortable anymore,” he said. He labeled the MAGA wing of the GOP “an extremist party that on most days doesn’t even seem to care about the Constitution.”
Asked about his top priority, Gisler listed ranked- choice voting, where voters rank the candidates in order of preference, rather than choosing one, eliminating the need for runoffs, which he called a relic of Jim Crow. He also supports overturning Georgia’s sixweek abortion ban, raising the minimum wage, expanding Medicaid, funding education, and lowering costs for housing, car insurance and health insurance.
any more than anybody else, but the state income tax is half the state’s tax revenue. It’s $20 billion,” he said. “I haven’t heard how they plan to make that up.”
Gisler graduated from UGA with a degree in oceanography, but he has spent his career in IT. He also owns The Olive Basket, an Oconee County olive oil and vinegar store that he is planning to move to downtown Athens.
Guest runs LAD Truck Lines, a Watkinsville-based logistics business, with his father. “It’s taught me when to listen and learn, and how to get things done, be effective and strategic, and how to bring people together. That is my goal when I get to Atlanta, is to learn,” he said, adding that he plans to lean heavily on Gaines if elected.
Guest said he is passionate about transportation, bridges and roads. “316 might be a hot topic,” he said. Other policy interests include education and public safety, where he pledged to “work across the board with our law enforcement agencies and make sure they have the tools to get the job done.”
“Democrats won this month’s PSC races not just in traditionally blue counties, but in swing counties and even deep-red counties that voted upwards of 60% for Trump last year. It’s proof positive that when Dem-
Gaines and Wiedower “lost in a very, very similar election” in 2017. “And we only have a 10- seat majority in the House for Republicans,” Gaines said. “I can tell you the Democrats are going to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars trying to get [Guest’s] opponent elected.”
Oconee County Republican Chair Kathy Hurley wrote on Facebook: “A slice of the
In an interview conducted the day before Congress ended the government shutdown, Gisler criticized state-level Republicans for not dipping into Georgia’s $14 billion surplus to provide emergency funding for the food program SNAP. He is also opposed to cutting or eliminating the state income tax, as Republicans have proposed, which he said would lead to raising other taxes or cutting services. “I don’t like paying taxes
Early voting is underway through Friday, Dec. 5; check accgov.com/advancevoting for times and locations. For more information about Guest’s campaign, visit electdutch. com or facebook.com/electdutch. To learn more about Gisler, visit ericgisler.com or facebook.com/gislerforgeorgia.
Chris Dowd of Athens Politics Nerd contributed to this report.
Mack “Dutch” Guest IV
Eric Gisler
You Say You Want a Revolution KEN BURNS’
DOCUMENTARIES REMAIN AS COMPELLING AS EVER
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
Ken Burns has a shining reputation as the documentary filmmaker who created such memorable television fare as his 1990 series, The Civil War. His latest series on PBS, The American Revolution, takes viewers back to a time long ago that has relevance today.
“Patriotism means loving your country enough to tell its whole story,” said Burns. In his work over a span of decades, Burns has told stories of America’s bold ideas and its bad mistakes. He has shown patriotism as an artist by painting a true cinematic picture of the land that he loves despite its flaws.
Burns has a long roster of compelling films, The Civil War being perhaps his most famous. He also produced such documentaries as Baseball (1994), Jazz (2001), The Roosevelts: An Intimate History (2014), The Vietnam War (2017) and Country Music (2019). The American Revolution comes as we are poised to celebrate this nation’s 250th birthday next year, with a president whom Burns has called “a naked emperor” and “a spoiled, misbehaving child” in the White House. With the Trump regime eager to gut the Public Broadcasting System, the work of Ken Burns could be imperiled.
The American Revolution shows our nation’s painful birth and the choices made
by citizens of the 18th century colonies that would fight to become the United States of America. In a caustic and cautionary commencement speech at Brandeis University last year, Burns told his audience that, “We are at an existential crossroads in our political and civic lives. This is a choice that could not be clearer.”
America’s 250th birthday next July 4 is called the semiquincentennial, a word that doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue. In 1976 this nation marked its bicentennial, 200 years since declaring its independence from Great Britain. A president that American dissidents dubbed “King Richard” Nixon had been swept from office in 1974, just two years before the U.S. Bicentennial. Despite his criminality in the infamous Watergate scandal, Nixon was quickly pardoned by his hand-picked vice president and successor, Gerald Ford.
of the ship of state in Washington. Neither had been elected to the presidency or the vice presidency, so their conjunction of politics, pardons and plutocracy didn’t sit well with millions of Americans. Enter the People’s Bicentennial Commission. Founded by author, activist and educator Jeremy Rifkin at the dawn of the 1970s, the PBC aimed to push what Rifkin called “revolutionary alternatives to the bicentennial years.” The organization did exactly that, sponsoring programs for schools, television and radio broadcasts, as well as publishing a series of books with alternative views of
revolutionary patriots like Thomas Paine with commentary on the issues of the 20th century.
On July 4, 1976, the PBC had a rally in Washington DC. I was there as a writer for the Athens Observer newspaper. The nearby Capitol provided a stately backdrop as American flags waved in the warm summer breezes, but also present in large numbers were yellow “Gadsden flags” originally flown by American revolutionaries in 1775. The flag depicts a coiled rattlesnake above the slogan “Don’t Tread on Me.” The PBC also used the rattlesnake motif on protest buttons worn by participants in the 1976 rally, decades before the same Gadsden flag was hoisted at conservative Tea Party events in 2009. I still have my PBC button from 1976.
As America celebrated its bicentennial in 1976, Ford and his vice president, billionaire Nelson Rockefeller, were at the helm
the official bicentennial events that critics derided as a “Buy- centennial” of corporate and governmental collusion. PBC books like its 1974 volume Voices of the American Revolution and its 1975 volume Common Sense II: The Case Against Corporate Tyranny combined the words of 18th century
With its mixture of music, activism and oratory, the PBC rally enlivened the Washington celebrations nearly 50 years ago. With its reminder that Thomas Jefferson warned against what he called “the aristocracy of our moneyed corporations,” the People’s Bicentennial Commission cautioned against overweening corporate power more than four decades before Occupy Wall Street protests began in 2011.
Ken Burns brings America’s revolution to life today. He was right when he said, “You can’t possibly know where you are or where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been.” f
John Trumbull’s painting “The Surrender of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown.”
Will Normaltown Still Be Normal?
THE HARDWARE CLOSES, AND ANOTHER ERA ENDS
By Pete McCommons pete@flagpole.com
It’s like a wake. The family is gathered in their usual places: Hank Logan in a rocking chair near the entrance, brother Bob behind the counter and Dan “Boone” Glenn on his accustomed stool beyond a shelf.
Friends and customers come and go. Publicanentrepreneur Joey Tatum shoots the breeze with Hank. Master of all trades Will Wilson takes advantage of the going-out-of-business sale to lay in some supplies. Bassist extraordinaire Dan Horowitz comes in for some zip ties, and Athens enthusiast Mary Lopez breezes through. A TV above the front door replays the Georgia-Texas game.
Normal Hardware is closing on Dec. 31. Hank’s and Bob’s father, Hugh Logan, came home from World War II and started building houses—you can see a lot of them along Holman Avenue. When the supply of candidates for the G.I. Bill lessened, Hugh segued into the building supply business and opened Normal Hardware in 1949, first down the street where Bill Overend’s law office is now, then in the present iconic brick building, which was formerly Brackett’s Grocery.
After he retired from the post office, Hugh’s father came to help out at the store, as Hugh got increasingly involved in local politics. It was a natural development for Hugh, because he greeted every customer as if he was running for office, so he might as well do it. In his career on the Clarke County Commission and later representing Athens in the Georgia House of Representatives, Hugh was always available to his constituents. Unless he was away in Atlanta on legislative business, all you had to do was walk in the front door at the store, and you got an instant appointment with Hugh and frequently a discount, whether you came in to ask for a favor or to disagree with Hugh’s politics.
Hank headed up a couple of departments at the university before retiring back to the family store. “We’re not going to sell the business,” he says. “We’re going to close it down, sell everything we can and dispose of the rest. And we’re going to rent the building.” (Bargain alert: Look for some deep discounts during December.) The top floor is already occupied by the architectural firm Arcollab. Hank says he’s going to keep his office in the back that was Hugh’s, but he’ll have plenty of time for golf. Bob will have plenty of time for fishing. Dan will just have plenty of time, and he doesn’t know what he’ll do with it.
Dan came to work at Normal Hardware in 1968, when he was 18 years old, after a career shining shoes at Normal Barber Shop down the street toward where Agua Linda is today. Hugh nicknamed Dan “The Engineer of Normaltown,” an appropriate title since Dan can assemble anything and show you how to work it and repair it if it breaks—like a 30- year-old mattock still busting tree stumps after only one new handle installed by Dan.
Customers have always humorously wondered if there is an “abnormal” hardware, and they may be about to find out, like the brand new chain- store mattock that pretzled after its first lick at a stump, before Dan put the new handle in the old Normal tool.
Bob says he came to work at the store when he was 12 years old, loading sheetrock, and he’s hated doing it ever since. Hugh believed children should learn to make their own way, and he made sure his did. “I tell you,” Bob says, “I am not going to miss hauling that sheetrock.”
Let us digress a moment to make sure everybody understands “Normal.” It comes from the State Normal School, which preceded the present medical college and the Navy Supply Corps school gracing the beautiful campus across Prince Avenue. The school was a teacher’s college, and like normal schools all over the country and the world, it trained its teachers to teach elementary students the “norms” of learning and behavior, a concept derived from the French école normale. Thus Normaltown and Normal Hardware.
anachronism. But for its customers the store is the very essence of local, where they do not need to drive out of town to grab a toilet flap or buy a rake for the fall leaves or a mattock when stumped. And of course the best part of the equation, ever since Hugh opened it up, has been the friendly expertise always ready to greet you.
Normaltown, up until a decade before Hugh opened the store, was the gateway to Atlanta. Oglethorpe Avenue (formerly known as Monroe Road) was the only route west across the Middle Oconee, at Mitchell Bridge. Normaltown had a filling station on every corner (note Automatic Pizza’s homage) and a more diverse business mix than its present restaurant and bar establishments—though don’t forget Willie’s Place and of course Allen’s Hamburgers, made “World Famous” by the graduates of the Navy school aboard their farflung ships.
Given the trend to wining and dining in Normaltown and the omnipresence of the chain stores carrying hardware, it’s easy to see Normal Hardware as a charming
One customer suggested several years ago that the Logans should adopt the practice in Ireland of combining a pub with the store, so that the counter becomes a bar by night, and the customers who come in for a quart of varnish in the afternoon can come back for a pint of stout in the evening. Bob considered the logistics, given the beer taps already just outside either wall of the building, but eventually laughed off the idea. We’ll never know.
Now, time is running out. Just another month until the epicenter of Normaltown shifts.
“To tell you the truth,” Hank says, “this business hasn’t made any money in a long time, but we’ve kept it going because we understand how important it is to the Normaltown community. And we’re not going to put anything in here that isn’t a good fit for Normaltown.” f
Hank Logan
Bob Logan
Dan “Boone” Glenn
PHOTOS
LITERATURE | SAT, NOV. 29
Sarah Mosseri Book Launch
Hendershot’s • 2 p.m. • FREE! Trust Fall is the first book by sociologist and researcher Sarah Mosseri, exploring the intricacies of trust and power in workplace culture. Across every industry she studied, from restaurants to tech startups, Mosseri found that the relationships that stabilize workers’ experiences are also capable of deepening their exposure to risk and exploitation. Her book balances academic
MUSIC | SAT, NOV. 29
Cloud Recordings Festival
Flicker Theatre & Bar • 8 p.m. (doors) • $12 Cloud Recordings is a local record label that was founded by John Kiran Fernandes and the late Will Cullen Hart in 2001. Fernandes and Hart are best known as two prominent members of Athens’ iconic indie music collective Elephant 6, particularly in bands The Olivia Tremor Control and later Circulatory System. Fernandes, who still frequently plays in bands around town, got the idea for a music festival that would highlight artists on the label and other local artists that he loved back in 2012, and has held Cloud Recordings Festival annually since then. This year’s festival is one night only, featuring an ambient duo performance from Fernandes and David McCoy; indie-rock band Telemarket (which recently released its new single “Didn’t Ask What’s On My Mind”); a trio performance from Fernandes, Arianna Petersen and Franklin Russell; and electronic space act Organically Programmed. [MB]
insight with evocative storytelling to give its readers the ability to recognize and challenge their place in these dynamics. Mosseri’s previous sociological work has been published in interdisciplinary journals like New Media & Society, British Journal of Management, and Work, Employment and Society For this book-launch event, she will give behind- the- scenes insight and hold an open discussion. She will also sign copies of Trust Fall, and exclusive merchandise will be available for purchase. [Mary Beth Bryan]
Beginning in 2002 with covers specifically from the seminal Beatles album, Abbey Road, Abbey Road LIVE! is now Athens’ premier Fab Four tribute band. Four all- star local musicians comprise the group, having all recorded and toured with acts like Cosmic Charlie and individually with Indigo Girls, Mike Houser of Widespread Panic, Danielle Howle and more. Together, they have a catalog of nearly 150 Beatles songs. This is one tribute band from which audiences won’t encounter kitsch. The group says, “Abbey Road LIVE! is not your typical Beatles look-alike tribute act; don’t expect mop- top haircuts and vintage Rickenbacker guitars. Rather, this show is about bringing to life some of the more mature and complex Beatles material in a raw and spirited fashion, while remaining true to the original recordings.” R.E.M. tribute band Radio Free Athens will open the show. [MB]
LITERATURE | TUE, DEC. 2
Hanna Pylväinen Book Reading
Ramsey Hall • 6 p.m. • FREE!
Following up her Whiting Awardand Balcones Fiction Prize- winning debut novel We Sinners, author and educator Hanna Pylväinen’s The End of Drum-Time is a historical narrative based around the Sámi reindeer herding culture of mid-19th century Scandinavia. The story follows a Lutheran minister attempting to convert the indigenous Sámi herders, delving into themes of faith, identity, colonialism and change. For this event
in partnership with The Georgia Review, Pylväinen will read from the book and discuss her research, the process of writing historical fiction and her connection with the themes in her story. This is part of UGA Presents’ Nordic Dream series, which will go on to include Norwegian pianist Leif Ove Andsnes on Jan. 21, Finnish folk band Frigg on Jan. 24 and Norwegian jazz pianist Tord Gustavsen’s trio on Mar. 27. [MB] f
threats & promises
Kites With Lights Single PLUS,
MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
Hey y’all, since this is the week we’re giving thanks, I wanted to express my appreciation for your reading this column each week. I also want to thank every musician and band who claims Athens as their homebase. While my individual opinion on your work varies wildly, the fact is there’s no scene without you. And as someone who loves the Athens music scene more than many things, I thank you for another year of doing what you do. Now, let’s get into the news.
AUTOMATIC FOR THE PEOPLE: The collaborative album by Don Chambers and George Davidson, produced under the project name Call Letters, is titled Haint Blue and is out now. The immediacy of this record reflects the situation of its birth. All eight tracks were improvised and recorded in a single five-hour session at Japanski Studio, where it was engineered and mastered by Matt Tamisin. Only craftsmen such as these could produce something as touching as “Garland Of Flowers” on the fly. If you’re unfamiliar with the artists, know that each has decades of performance and compositional work under his belt. Chambers sings and plays guitar, and Davidson plays saxophone. This isn’t a jazz album, nor is it a rock and roll album. It is, rather, what perhaps Nebraska might have been were it recorded in downtown New York City circa 1975. Find this at callletters. bandcamp.com.
AN AURAL AUTUMN:
Longtime readers and local music fans will remember the now-defunct Moeke Records Summer Singles compilations that were released for several years. Now, The Glow Studio operator and former Moeke head Jesse Mangum has reworked the concept and presented the inaugural release of some fresh studio activity. The first collection of recent recordings at The Glow are available on The Glow Recording Studio Presents: Fall Fingles 2025. Should you choose to engage, you’ll get tracks from T. Hardy Morris & Little Gold, Isra and the Paisleys, Floral Portrait, Drí and the Violence, Dog Person and Cardynal ft. The Flock. Each song here was recorded, mixed and mastered in a single eight-hour session at The Glow. Check it out over at theglowrecordingstudio.bandcamp.com.
as well as notable, yet understated lead guitar. Similarly, “Strongman Competition/ Warship” is a complex, multilayered piece that pretends it isn’t. Basically, y’all, there’s a lot more going on here than initially meets the eyes and ears. However, to be sure, if you were looking for a pick-me-up this isn’t it. So, go gloom it up at leadmouth.bandcamp.com.
SHUMWAY OR THE HIGHWAY: Now, as long as we’re taking a trip on the roller coaster of unhappiness, let’s talk about the new fivesong, self- titled EP by Ralph. The enormity of the rock-and-roll racket this pair makes is off the charts. Careful listeners will hear dashes of Mudhoney and Bikini Kill, but uncareful listeners should enjoy this just as much without hearing that stuff. The record’s cover art is a clever/ironic play on two cultural phenomena: puppet TV personality ALF and the upside down Christian cross, each of which is placed in a comedic context. Specific musical highlights here are “The Benzos” and “Smells Like Money.” However, each of those is cut from similar cloth as the other three, so if you dig one you’ll maybe dig them all. Check it out at ralphcore.bandcamp. com.
STAY LIT: It’s been several years since there was any new music from Kites With Lights. Well, homie, project founder and main man Jonah Cordy has blessed us all with new music. It’s only one song, but it’s something. And it’s named “The Rules.” You’re completely forgiven for not being at all familiar with Cordy’s work because, as I said, it’s been years. But this is another compelling slice of well crafted and thoughtfully constructed synthpop that surfs along the shadow of an otherwise bright universe. Which is to say, yes, it’s synthy and melodic, but not particularly lighthearted. Find this at kiteswithlights.bandcamp.com, and demonstrate your fanship by checking out facebook.com/ kiteswithlights.
NO JOY IN SLUDGEVILLE: If you were hoping for a fresh onslaught of kind of sludgy (but not too much) metal that’s at least somewhat aware of 1980s-era crossover metal, then End Times Vision has you covered. The group just released the eight- song A Career In High-Potency Capsules, which is exactly the kind of nasty gas station-inspired title this record deserves. The existential metal hammering of “blackbeansandrice” contains some surprising melodic instances,
LUCKY MAN: It’s been about 14 months since I had anything to say about Iodine Watt But that ends now as the new album Human Music just came out. Only in the current milieu would I jump to the conclusion of surmising the title is a hot take on the expansion of artificial intelligence, so consider that jumped to. One of the album’s release tags, though, explicitly says “no ai” so I cannot be far off course, if at all. In any case, this album is another example of Iodine Watt being well versed in prog and orchestral rock, as well as other grand musical schema like video game tracks. In particular, I enjoyed “Jealous Trees,” “(This is) The End” and “Chase Scene.” Dig it at iodine watt.bandcamp.com. f
Sarah Mosseri
Hanna Pylväinen
BEOWULFSHEEHAN
Holiday Gift Guide flagpole
Welcome to the first edition of flagpole’s 2025 Holiday Gift Guide! To be included in the Dec. 10th edition, contact the Flagpole Advertising Department at 706-549-0301 or ads@flagpole.com. Deadline is Dec. 2nd.
Aurum Studios Ltd.
125 E. Clayton St. aurumstudios.com
Aurum Studios Ltd. has been an Athens destination for fine jewelry, art, and pottery since 1975. Shop their beautiful selection of unique items, like this 14k Green Tourmaline bracelet and 14k Ancient Roman Scene Pendant Replica, both by the Mazza Company, and 14k Roman Coin and diamond earrings replica by In Style by Rafeal.
Canopy Studio
160-6 Tracy St. canopystudio.org
Give the gift of aerial dance with kids winter camp, adult workshops, and classes for all ages. Check out the new bungee classes for ages 16 and up! Perfect for all abilities with no experience necessary. Wrap up a Canopy gift certificate and water bottle this holiday season!
The Classic Center
440 Foundry St. classiccenter.com/athensonice
Athens On Ice public ice skating is back at the 440 Foundry Pavilion at The Classic Center! With theme nights, brand new toddler skating sessions, and so much more, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy! Tickets are $22 with skate rental; groups of four or more are eligible for $20 tickets.
Season skate passes are also available.
Creature Comforts Brewing Company
271 W. Hancock Ave. creaturecomfortsbeer.com
Creature Comforts’ craft brewery and tasting room have been Athens staples since 2014. Give the gifts of red and black Creature sweatshirts, CCBC logo tee, and Classic City Lager Can pocket tee. All black and red items are 20% on Friday, Nov. 28, and are available at the retail shop at the taproom.
Closed Thanksgiving day. Retail shop opens at noon on Nov. 28, taproom at 1 p.m.
Big City Bread Cafe
393 N. Finley St. bigcitybreadcafe.com
Treat your loved ones and celebrate your love of Big City Bread with gift certificates in any denomination. Super easy to purchase online or in person. Delicious sweets trays feature assorted mini cookies, sweet bars, and chocolate truffle stars. Call or email bigcitycafe@yahoo.com to order (with 48 hours notice) for your holiday celebration.
Holiday Market Dec. 11 & 12, 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Cattle Dog Forge
Watkinsville cattledogforge.com
Cattle Dog Forge Kitchen Knives makes handcrafted knives, kitchen accessories, and custom orders from high carbon steel by artisanal bladesmith Daniel Moye in his Watkinsville, Georgia workshop. These kitchen knives are excellent quality working knives that feel great in the hand, are pleasing to the eye, and are made to last for generations to come. Knives are one of a kind with a wide variety of fine handle materials and fittings.
Order online with free shipping, or arrange for local pickup.
Classic Citiva has two hemp and wellness stores in Athens, selling trusted hemp products in a welcoming atmosphere. Try their THC gummies this season. The Activators blend is perfect for someone who needs an energy boost to get through the holidays, while their Serenity blend gives the gift of relaxation to the person who is always on the go. Their classic Red White & Blues are the ultimate way to elevate anyone’s holidaze!
Open Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sun 12 p.m.–5 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving.
DePalma’s offers catering and party trays to make your holidays tastier. Lasagna, Chicken Parmigian, salad, bread sticks, and more. Dine in or call in your order and pick it up at one of our 3 locations.
Gift cards, both physical and email versions, are available online at depalmasitaliancafe.com
Frog Pond Shop
Sandy Creek Nature Center www.website.com
The Frog Pond Gift Shop at Sandy Creek Nature Center has something for everyone! Choose from an extensive selection of plush toys like this realistic baby alligator, or duplicate the walking movement of real spiders with this Smithsonian S.T.E.M. kit. They also have glazed mugs with sand carved fossil designs!
Open Tues.–Sat. 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Indie South
470 Hawthorne Ave. theindiesouth.com
Indie South has a wide range of eclectic finds from over 150 small brands. Framed insects and butterflies, psychedelic mushroom puzzles, sardine hair clips and stocking stuffers galore are here for all your holiday needs. Always plenty of FREE parking.
Holiday Hooray event at General Time Dec. 13 & 14.
Loving Botanicals
269 Hull St., Ste. 200 lovingbotanicals.com
Loving Botanicals is the only Cannabis Mocktail Dry Bar and traditional cannabis dispensary in Athens. They offer “high” quality presents like fun and refreshing Crescent 9 THC seltzers. Got a friend with a sweet tooth? Grab them some Seventh Hill THC Caramels or let them make their own with THC-infused olive oil.
Open Tues.–Sat. 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Holiday Gift Guide
Georgia Museum of Art
Museum Shop • 90 Carlton St. georgiamuseum.org
The Museum Shop has gifts for all ages! Give creatively this season with art supplies of all kinds.
Friends Holiday Shopping Week takes place December 9-14. All Friends receive 10% off everything, including frames and sale items. Upper-level members receive 20% off.
The Junkman’s Daughter’s Brother
175 E. Clayton St.
An Athens institution for 40 years, Junkman’s - now housed within Cillie’s on Clayton St. - continues to be a beloved source for gifts that are clever, unique, hilarious, and bizarre. Classic Leg Lamps in large and small sizes, giant (24”!) screaming chickens, and swear word bingo and just a few of the treasures you’ll find.
Sexy
Suz Couples Boutique 4124 Atlanta Hwy.
chazzy.com • IG:@seysuzathens
Sexy Suz is fully stocked with your favorite adult products this holiday season! A wide selection of lingerie, party games like Fondle, and toys like The Male Rose are just a few of the great items they carry.
Open all week.
The Athens Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Porter Steel Inc. as Small Business of the Month. Congratulations to our November Small Business of the Month, Porter Steel, Inc.! Head quartered in Lilburn, Porter Steel has embraced the Athens community since opening an additional facility here, priding itself on a purpose of changing lives and leading by example. They are ‘powered by principle’, demonstrating leadership in more than just business, and we’re proud to have them in the Athens business community!
State Botanical Garden of GA Gift Shop
2450 S. Milledge Ave. botgarden.uga.edu
The Gift Shop at the State Botanical Garden offers a variety of festive gifts and decorations! Mr. Bird holiday bird feeders, Roland Pine soy candles, and seasonal local honey from Tallassee Highlands are sure to bring joy this holiday season.
Shop the Winter Market at Winter WonderLights. Gift wrapping available.
The PG Show
thepgshow.com IG: @thepgshowIG
Your favorite Athens kindie-rock band has the perfect gift for your favorite little (and big!) cowpokes. T-shirts in toddler to adult sizes, stickers, and FREE downloadable coloring sheets are all available on their website for local pickup and delivery.
The Cottage
3019 Lexington Rd. northgeorgiacottage.org
Donate to support the work of The Cottage, which provides free support services to survivors in our community. Make a donation as a gift to a loved one and give the gift of healing to those affected by sexual violence and child abuse.
The Cottage operates a crisis hotline 24/7, year round. That number is 877–363–1912
Woodhill Artists Market
4745 Bob Godfrey Rd. barbaraodil.com/woodhillartshow2025
Woodhill Artists Market features local artists (pictured) Glenda Chamberlain, functional and decorative pottery; Lisa Freeman, collage and assemblage art and gifts; Peter Loose, joyful art and musical instruments. Also featured: Mary Rugg, Michael Pierce, Greg Krakow, Barbara Odil, Ansley Grace, Leigh Ellis, and Louise Norrell.
The University of Georgia’s Performing Arts Center is a valuable asset that draws world-renowned musicians and provides access to classical music, but that doesn’t mean its opportunities and offerings are equally accessible to all in the Athens community. Classical Revolution is an international grassroots movement that aims to bring classical music out of the concert hall and into community spaces.
The local Athens chapter was established in 2015 by Maria Kindt, a violist and UGA alumna, but the pandemic spurred an extended hiatus for the group. Under the leadership of Alexandra Dunbar, a professor at the University of North Georgia, and Jazmyn Trujillo, a doctoral student at the University of Georgia, Classical Revolution Athens has resumed its monthly open micstyle events at Hendershot’s this year.
times they get premieres.
“There’s a really fantastic composer at UNG, David Peoples, and he’s kind of a regular at these performances. He will come do a brand new performance, and he’ll play something that’s never been performed anywhere,” says Dunbar. “I always try to really, really encourage that. Students at UGA have come and performed, too, and it’s really interesting the kind of music that they’ll play. So it’s usually mixed music. I always like to hear what new music is doing these days, bridging between universities and community.”
However, Dunbar also emphasizes that, just like the space is open to all levels of performers, it’s not just for people with lofty musical dreams seeking to be professional at any point. It’s also for those who simply love and enjoy the music. Sometimes
Classical music enjoyers of all kinds are invited to listen and cheer in a more relaxed and informal environment while performances take place from a mix of touring professionals, students of all ages and even casual players. The environment is also a great place to meet people looking for small ensembles to join or chamber partners.
“There’s not really a lot of dedicated spaces to [classical music] other than a performance hall that’s kind of strict, and you have to know how to behave and act when you go to a classical concert. But this is not like that. There’s no set, ‘you have to clap at this time’ or ‘don’t clap in between the movements,’” says Dunbar. “I love it that we’re kind of hooting and hollering. It’s a different kind of level of support that you get from an audience. I remember one time… there was a really good pianist, and he took lessons from me. I was like, ‘I think he’s a better pianist than I am,’ but then he went to go play, and he just had a really bad case of performance anxiety. He couldn’t play, and then everyone cheered him on and just said, ‘You got this.’ Everyone was just really cheering him on.”
Whether attendees want to grab a glass of wine or some hot tea at the bar, the atmosphere of Hendershot’s helps to create a supportive and low-pressure environment. In addition to it being a safe space to overcome anxieties, practice performing or test out new pieces, Dunbar says that some-
it’s also about providing the opportunity for someone to experience something they’d never have a chance to otherwise.
“I am happy to play and donate my time if it’s going to help more people come to music, or be drawn to music. I play the harpsichord. That’s a very obscure instrument. If anyone can say, ‘Oh my gosh, I saw today… how cool and yet random is that?’ then I’ve done my job. I’ve fulfilled my mission,” says Dunbar.
Signups take place through a Google form leading up to the event. Dunbar says they’ve yet to turn someone away, and the only request is to be mindful of time and perform shorter pieces to give others a chance. Both solo and group performances take place, but it’s also a great place to network or make new friends if you’re not ready to get on stage.
There’s one more event happening before the year’s end on Saturday, Dec. 6. For more information about signing up to perform and updates on next year’s schedule, visit facebook.com/classicalrevolutionathens or instagram.com/classicalrevolutionathens. f
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26TH BIG BAND ATHENS
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27TH GIVE THANKS 8K
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH COCKTAILS AND SILENT FILMS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH "TRUST FALL" BOOK LAUNCH 2PM
KIRBY CRAFT, QUENTIN LOVE, EIGHT PICTURES 8PM
live music calendar
Tuesday 25
Cheba Hut
8 p.m. FREE! www.chebahut.com
KARAOKE Every Tuesday.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
5 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
MOTION SICKNESS OF TIME
TRAVEL, GRANTANDMATT,
IXIAN Providing audio and visual offerings for the closing reception of James Greer’s exhibition “Nineteen Drawings.”
Hugh Hodgson School of Music
Edge Hall. 7:30 p.m. FREE! music. uga.edu
VERBINDEN STRING QUARTET
String group founded in 2024 at UGA’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music by Ian Koontz, Rogelio Bonilla, Clarissa Tamara and Jhonni Campos.
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
GUITAR STUDIO Ensemble performances from UGA Guitar Studio students.
Wednesday 26
Athentic Brewing Co.
7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY
Every Wednesday. 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.
Hendershot’s
8 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com
BIG BAND ATHENS 18-member Athens band whose swinging tunes consist of cover music from the ’40s to the ’70s.
F.O.R. Trio of Neal Fountain, Erik Olson and Jeff Reilly playing funk, rock, soul and experimental jazz. 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.
Friday 28
Athentic Brewing Co. Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $7 (adv.), $10. www.athenticbrewing. com
THE ORIGINAL SPLITZ BAND
Part ’70s funk and disco flavor, a dash of R&B, and a guaranteed good time.
Classic Citiva Eastside High Note Friday. 4:20 p.m. FREE! www.classiccitiva.com
GUIDESTONES Duo made up of Americana singer-songwriter Joe Cat and Jim Wilson on drums. El Paso Tacos & Tequila
7 p.m.–12 a.m. www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
KARAOKE WITH DJ D00MSDAY
Every Friday.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
Normaltown Records Presents. 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flickertheatre andbar.com
JULIA SANDERS Alt-country musician and poignant songwriter from Asheville, NC. CANNON ROGERS Local alt-country songwriter, guitarist and pedal steel player drawing inspiration from the likes of Flannery O’Connor and Lucinda Williams. DUSTY INKWELL Solo performance by Austin Darnell (member of The Howdies).
SILENT DISCO Grab a pair of headphones, choose a music channel and dance the night away.
Sunday 30
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.
Oak House Distillery
4–6:30 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery. com
TRIO METRO This piano, sax and drums trio plays jazz standards and an array of more contemporary covers with a jazz twist.
Monday 1
Hugh Hodgson School of Music
Edge Hall. 6 p.m. FREE! music.uga. edu
ELIZABETH KNIGHT Studio recital from the mezzo soprano.
Madison Morgan Cultural Center
7 p.m. FREE! www.mmcc-arts.org
OPEN MIC NIGHT First Mondays. Porterhouse Grill
7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.
Ramsey Hall
5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
UGA HORN CHOIR An ensemble of both horn majors and nonmajors attending the Hugh Hodgson School of Music.
Tuesday 2
Cheba Hut
8 p.m. FREE! www.chebahut.com
KARAOKE Every Tuesday.
Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two
sets from his catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.”
Hugh Hodgson School of Music
Edge Hall. 6 p.m. FREE! music.uga. edu
SOUTHERN WIND QUINTET Graduate chamber music ensemble that represents some of the finest instrumental musicianship on campus.
Normal Bar
8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com
OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday.
Ramsey Hall
3:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
REPERTORY SINGERS A mixed chamber choir directed by graduate student conductors.
Wednesday 3
Athentic Brewing Co.
7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY 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.
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. 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.
Down the Line
12/04 The Seven Two, Warren Hollow, Lightwatch (40 Watt Club) 12/04 Ohmu, Rauncher, Ixian (Flicker Theatre & Bar) f
Cannon Rogers will perform at Flicker Theatre & Bar on Friday, Nov. 28.
event calendar
Tuesday 25
ART: Closing Reception (Flicker Theatre & Bar) James Greer’s exhibition “Nineteen Drawings” will be on view with audio and visual offerings by Motion Sickness of Time Travel, grantandmatt and Ixian. 5 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatre andbar.com
COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (Flying Squid Comedy) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com
EVENTS: Annual Thanksgiving Dinner (El Paso Tacos & Tequila) A hot meal from the restaurant’s Thanksgiving dinner table. 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ elpasoathenss
GAMES: Music Bingo (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Join in to play music BINGO. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.johnnyspizza.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: BINGO & Sip (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Play BINGO with a chance to win prizes. 7 p.m. FREE! www. athenskava.com
GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this
music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
KIDSTUFF: YA Dystopian Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss The Giver by Lois Lowry with the group. Ages 12 & up. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen Silent Book Club (ACC Library) Bring a book or browse the library and enjoy peaceful reading time. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss BlueBird BlueBird by Attica Locke with the group. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Coven & Claw Reading Club (Coven & Claw Salon) Discuss this month’s selection Weyward by Emilia Hart. RSVP required. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/coven_and_claw
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Clue (The Classic Center) Live-action play adaptation of the murder mystery board game. Nov. 25–26, 7:30 p.m. $33–126. www. classiccenter.com
Wednesday 26
CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 1 p.m. FREE! 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
art around town
ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 500) Heaven4theYoung presents “The Uncanny Valley” featuring ceramics, oils and watercolors by Frances Thrasher. Through January 2026.
AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) Works by artist Camille Hayes on view through Dec. 7 with new works by Marissa Mustard going up. Closing/opening reception Dec. 7.
ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) Landscape and still life works by Sonja Amor on view through November.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Halloween Forever” by artist Judah Cannerella features poster-style illustrations inspired by the pop culture of Halloween. Through Dec. 25.
ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) In the Bogue Gallery, “Over and Under: Woven by the Athena Weavers” featuring textile arts. Through Jan. 11.
AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) Works by local painter Mary Sams on view through December.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) asinnajaq’s “Three Thousand” combines archival videos from the National Film Board of Canada with animations, soundscapes and contemporary video footage. Through June 28, 2026. • “Looking Through a Sewn Sky: Rachel B. Hayes” is a commissioned installation in the Jane and Harry Willson Sculpture Garden that blends sculpture, painting and craft. Through Jul. 30, 2027.
HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) Paintings by Mark Dalling are on view through November.
JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Works by collage artist Susan Pelham are on view through November.
LAMAR DODD SCHOOL OF ART (270 River Rd.) “INCANDESCENCE: BFA Fall 2025 Capstone Exhibition” showcases new work by graduating BFA students across drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking and
EVENTS: Thanksgiving Feed the Hungry (The Sparrow’s Nest) Enjoy a buffet-style lunch and receive one bag of hygiene products per person. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.sparrowsnestathens.org
EVENTS: Beersgiving (Normaltown Brewing Co.) Join in pre-holiday shenanigans and hang with friends; it’s too late to defrost your turkey. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/normaltownbrewingco
EVENTS: Salsa Night (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Enjoy an evening of dancing. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.panchostacosandtequila.com
FILM: Thanksgiving Double Feature (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the stop-motion classic Fantastic Mr. Fox and the comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. indigoathens.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (La Fiesta) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Disney Trivia (B&B Theatres) Test your knowledge of the whole Disney universe. 7:30 p.m. www.bbtheatres.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Story Time (Oconee County Library) Drop in for songs, fingerplays and early literacy skills. Ages 3–7. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Drop by to meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ FilmAthens
MEETINGS: C3 to End Homelessness (Heard Park & Community Center) A roundtable discussion regarding housing and homelessness to educate, identify issue and plan steps to solutions. Fourth Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. FREE! www. athenshc.org/coc
THEATER: Clue (The Classic Center) Live-action play adaptation of the murder mystery board game. Nov. 25–26, 7:30 p.m. $33–126. www. classiccenter.com
Thursday 27
EVENTS: Give Thanks 8K (Hendershot’s) Start your day with a race around the downtown Athens area with a kids fun run and refreshments afterwards, in benefit of ACCA. Registration required. 8:30 a.m. $45. www.givethanks8k.com
Friday 28
EVENTS: Carrs Hill 5K and 11K (Dudley Park) Southeast Striders Walking Club sponsors a guided route to walk off all that turkey. 9:45 a.m. $4 (adults), FREE! (ages 18 & under). www.southeaststriders walkingclub.org
digital media. Through Dec. 4. LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) In the West Gallery, “Interwoven Narratives: Caul and Response” is a collaborative work by twin sisters Sachi Rome and Tokie Rome-Taylor. The exhibit explores southern folklore surrounding the caul and the concept of double consciousness. Through Jan. 24. • In the lower and upper atrium, “Seams to Be: New Approaches to Textile Techniques” highlights innovative uses of needle and thread by 13 Georgia artists. Guest curated by Didi Dunphy. Through Jan. 24. • The Lobby Case features Susan Perry’s small-scale sculptures created from handmade paper and bamboo. Through Dec. 6. • In the Atrium Cases, Artist Katie Kameen recontextualizes plastic pieces to create new forms in her exhibit “Plastic Tense.” Through Jan. 24. • A two-person exhibition featuring the abstract sculptural paintings of Sebastian Garcia Huidobro alongside the brutalist architecture-inspired sculptures of Rachel Lea Seburn will be on display in the South Gallery. Through Jan. 24. • In the Nancy Lukasiewicz Gallery, “Shawn Ireland: Arts Center Choice Award Winner” showcases colorful still-life paintings by the Athens-based artist. Through Jan. 3. • In the Lounge Gallery, “Public Works: Athens Public Art Behind the Scenes” highlights the mockups, engineering drawings and design proposals behind Athens’ public art installations. Guest curated by Tatiana Veneruso. Curator talk Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m. Through Jan. 3.
MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 S. Main St., Madison) “Emergence – In Black & White” features charcoal works and figure studies by Gary Hudson. Through Jan. 25.
OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) “Art to the Max” pop-up exhibition features artwork inspired by OCAF’s beloved orange cat, Max. Opening reception Dec. 9 (noon–1:30 p.m.); on view through Dec. 20.
STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead)
“Steffen Thomas: Exploring His Brotherhood Credo.” Through Jan. 3. • “Tribute to Richard “Ole” Olsen.” Through Jan. 3. • “Steffen Thomas Through the Eyes of Young Adults” on display in the Educational Gallery. Final date TBA. • “1972 Trip to Germany” highlights art inspired by
EVENTS: TranscenDANCE (Feel Free Yoga + Wellness) Based on the principles of ecstatic dance, this is a sober, judgement-free zone for anyone to come and let loose. Fridays, 6–8:30 p.m. Donations suggested. www.feelfreeyogawellness.com
FILMS: Silent Films and Cocktails (Hendershot’s) Settle in with a drink for a night of silent film showings. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a new roleplaying game. New players welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
SPORTS: Alumni Association Watch Party (Athentic Brewing Co.) Watch the UGA vs Georgia Tech football game with the UGA Alumni Association hosting giveaways, speeches and more. 3:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
Saturday 29
ART: Glass Blowing Demonstrations (Bendzunas Glass Studio and Gallery) Drop in to watch molten glass become stunning works of art and browse the gallery. Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. bendzunasglass.net
ART: Make an Ornament Party (Southern Star Studio) Drop in to make your own clay ornament. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. $5/ornament. www. southernstarstudioathens.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: Athens Library Store Holiday Market (ACC Library) Browse locally crafted ceramics, holiday decor, woodworking, jewelry, art prints and more. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.friendsofacclibrary.org/market
EVENTS: Pet Photos with Santa (Athens Area Humane Society) Bring up to two pets for photos with Santa. Registration required. Nov. 16 & 23, 12–4 p.m. Nov. 22 & 29–30, 12–2 p.m. $30. www. athenshumanesociety.com
EVENTS: Beechwood’s Holiday Market (Beechwood Shopping Center) Celebrate the Beechwood Center’s tree lighting with live music, face painting, food trucks, s’mores, photos with Santa and more. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/beechwoodathens
GAMES: Board Games (Bogart Library) Enjoy a variety of board games and card games with friends. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Book Launch (Hendershots) Author Sarah Mosseri offers a behind-the-scenes look at her latest release Trust Fall plus a book signing, exclusive merchandise and an open discussion opportunity. 2–5 p.m. FREE! www. smosseri.com/trust-fall
LECTURES & LIT: Little Local Book Fair (ATHICA) Browse locally-written books for holiday shopping. 2–6 p.m. www.neighborhoodbooks.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: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $28–50. www.classiccenter.com
TAPPED ATHENS (297 Prince Ave.) Local artist Will Eskridge’s exhibition “Beach Bumz” celebrates “all things sun-soaked, wave-crashed and goodvibes-only.” Through November.
TINYATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Local artist Caitlin La Dolce’s multimedia exhibition “Thing Church” is on view through December.
UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.) “Living Legends of Georgia Music,” an exhibition by Georgia-based watercolorist Jackie Dorsey, pays homage to eight iconic musicians. Through Jan. 5.
UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “From Farms to Fast Fashion: Unraveling the Need for Sustainable Style.” Through December. • David Zeiger’s photography project “Displaced in the New South” explores the cultural collision between Asian and Hispanic immigrants and the suburban Atlanta communities in the 1990s. Through December. • “Captain Planet: The Power Is Yours” explores the origins and impact of the TV series. Through May 2026. • “Sustained Excellence: A History of UGA Swim & Dive” explores the program’s history through photographs and artifacts. Through May 2026.
UGA CAMPUS/SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS (Athens) Month-long series of arts events including temporary visual-art displays, special gallery hours and pop-up exhibitions presented by UGA arts units. Through November.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS (780 Timothy Rd.) “Brush and Lens” features watercolors by Barb Schell paired with photography by John Schell in the Claire and Robert Clements Gallery. Through December.
WINTERVILLE CULTURAL CENTER GALLERY (371 N. Church St., Winterville) “Small Works” features 85 works all under 14 inches contributed by 60 different community artists. Through Dec. 18. • “Duets by Claire & Bob: A Lifetime of Sharing Creativity” showcases work by the Clements. Claire founded the Athens Plein Aire Painters group and was known for her cut paper botanical creations. Bob is a multi-disciplinary artist known for his landscape paintings and community sculptures. Through Dec. 18.
Sunday 30
ART: Glass Blowing Demonstrations (Bendzunas Glass Studio and Gallery) Drop in to watch molten glass become stunning works of art and browse the gallery. Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www. bendzunasglass.net
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: Pet Photos with Santa (Athens Area Humane Society)
Bring up to two of your pets for Christmas photos with Santa. Registration required. Nov. 16 & 23, 12–4 p.m. Nov. 22 & 29–30, 12–2 p.m. $30. www.athenshumanesociety.com
EVENTS: The Winter Wanderer Market (Athentic Brewing Co.)
Browse vendors offering unique trinkets, vintage clothing, jewelry, art and more. 2–6 p.m. www.athentic brewing.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your impressive trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens
LECTURES & LIT: Author Signing (Avid Bookshop) Author Leara Rhodes will be signing her historical fiction novels about Irish immigrants. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www. avidbookshop.com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players are always welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@ athenspetanque.org, www.athens petanque.org
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 4 p.m. $28–50. www.classiccenter.com
Monday 1
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
FILM: Movie Night (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Screening of a new movie release with free popcorn and a two-drink minimum purchase. Every other Monday, 8 p.m. www. athenskava.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccity triviaco
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
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.) Casual destigmatizing discussion about all things death and dying while using The Death Deck. RSVP encouraged. 6–8 p.m. organizingdeath@gmail. com
Tuesday 2
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: Designing Holiday
Cards with Canva (ACC Library)
Learn how to design personalized holiday cards using Canva. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: ESL (Bogart Library)
Learn and improve English skills including speaking, listening, reading and writing. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
COMEDY: Flying Squid Open
Improv Jam (Flying Squid Comedy) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com
with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your
days, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 3
ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 1 p.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: Music Bingo (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Join in to play music BINGO. Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.johnnyspizza.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom
Athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge
general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
LECTURES & LIT: Book Reading (Ramsey Hall) Author Hanna Pylväinen will read from her historical novel The End of Drum-Time with a reception and book signing. 6 p.m. FREE! pac.uga.edu
MEETINGS: West Broad School Public Info Session (Clarke County School District) The Clarke County School District will present its vision for the future of the historic West Broad School complex. 10 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. youtube.com/clarkecoschools
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tues-
leather clad maniac in Night School 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 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. indigoathens.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (La Fiesta) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Story Time (Oconee County Library) Songs, fingerplays and more. Ages 3–7. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
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: Salsa Night (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Enjoy an evening of social dancing. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.panchostacosandtequila. com
FILM: Athentic Holiday Movie Series (Athentic Brewing Co.) Double feature screening of Jingle All The Way and Die Hard. 6 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
FILM: Blood Everywhere
KIDSTUFF: Ready, Set, Grow (Aaron Heard Community Center) An active program for toddlers and preschoolers with a weekly theme. Ages 2–5. 10 a.m. $3 (ACC resident), $4.50 (non-resident). www. accgovga.myrec.com
KIDSTUFF: Teen Prism Club (Oconee County Library) 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
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: December Star Watch (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Enjoy
Paintings by Mark Dalling are on view at Hendershot’s through November.
bulletin board & classifieds
Classifieds
FOR SALE (Sporting Goods) Bicycle seat for sale! BROOKS (England) B 135 (COMFORT) Leather, hand made, springs. $125 (lists for $250). 404-295-8876
JOBS (Full-time) Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila is seeking a reliable and motivated bartender. Also seeking reliable and motivated individuals to join our team for TV and sound device installation work. Call or text 706-621-8280.
MUSIC (Instruction) Athens School of Music. Now offering in-person and online instruction in guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, banjo, mandolin and more. From beginner to expert, all styles. Visit www.athensschoolof music.com. 706-543-5800
MUSIC (Musicians Wanted) 2 dope boys plus a man with an axe. Hip hop band in search of rhythm section. Must keep tight pocket. Influences include OutKast, The Roots, Rage Against the Machine. Contact Whisper clncmmngs@yahoo.com, 706-254-5960.
MUSIC (Services) Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428
NOTICES (Lost & Found) LOST DOG
$1000 REWARD. Odin is a 12 year
old black miniature schnauzer. Lost near 441 Newton Bridge Rd. area on Aug. 4. Microchipped and has heart murmur. Please call 904-8037360. No questions asked.
REAL ESTATE (Art Studio) Join 8 potters in Community Clay Studio. 75 ft.² private studio space plus access to Kilns, slab-roller, shared working table & utilities. $275/mon www.southernstarstudioathens.com
SERVICES (Health) JAMES HILTON HYPNOSIS. Help with smoking, vaping, exercise motivation and confidence issues. Harvard trained health professional. 678-895-4278, www.hiltonhypnosis.org
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Fall is here! Let’s tackle those invasives!
Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible & native gardens for your school, home or business! For more info call/text 706-395-5321.
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in low-maintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@ gmail.com or call 631-903-4365.
SERVICES (Massage) Best massage on Athens East Side. John Duello LMT. Incalls and outcalls. 80/hr or 100/90 minutes. Call or text: 706963-0068
SERVICES (Travel) Retired professional driver available to deliver your vehicle or truck, one-way or round-trip, anywhere in U.S. Available locally with my vehicle, up to six passengers, on an hourly basis. Call Bob Andrews 706-608-2288 or email AthensBob5@gmail.com
Arts
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM
(Lyndon House Arts Center) The AIR Program provides participants with a workspace, access and a stipend. www.accgov.com/lyndonhouse
ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform to connect creatives with patrons. www.athenscreatives.directory
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals to develop an art exhibition for LHAC. www.accgov.com/9799/ ArtistCurator
CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls) Seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. careywelsh20 @gmail.com
CALL FOR ART (Donderos’) Seeking new artists to exhibit works. contact @donderoskitchen.com
CALL FOR ART (Oconee County Library) Seeking local artists to share their artwork in monthly exhibitions. adial@athenslibrary.org
CALL FOR ART (Winterville Library) Apply to be a featured local artist in the Front Room Gallery. The library accepts all 2D mediums. swatson@athenslibrary.org
CALL FOR ARTISTS (ACCGov) The Leisure Services Arts Division is seeking artists to create temporary light sculptures for display during the Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade. Submission deadline is Friday, Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. Event is Mar. 7, 2026.
CALL FOR ARTISTS (OCAF) Artists invited to submit work for “Tiny Worlds,” a curated exhibition exploring the meaning of scale. All media and approaches welcome. Deadline Dec. 12. www.ocaf.com/ exhibitions
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Oconee County Library, Watkinsville) Seeking submissions for variety of interior and exterior low maintenance art pieces. Deadline Dec. 1. www.athenslibrary. org/oconee, jmitchell@athens library.org
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Winterville Marigold Festival) Submit artwork to be featured on the 2026 Marigold Festival posters, T-shirts and more. Deadline Jan. 1. www.marigold festival.com
CALL FOR MUSICAL PERFORMERS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) The Marigold Market is seeking musicians for upcoming market events. All acts considered.
bradley@marigoldcollective winterville.com
CALL FOR PERFORMANCE ARTISTS (Athens Pride and Queer Collective) Seeking trans and gender non-conforming performers for upcoming event Operation Transformation. Event held Dec. 5. www.athenspride.org
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper. Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics. enagementcoordinator @athenshc.org
LIFE DRAWING (Winterville Cultural Center) Open studios for artists 18 & up to draw unclothed models. Every third Wednesday of the month, 1–4 p.m. A muscle in movement study with authentic Olympic banner backdrop Dec. 6 & 17. Registration required for all events. www.drawathens.org
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST (Firefly Trail Inc.) Submit black and white or color photography for the categories “people enjoying the Firefly Trail” and “scenes of the Firefly Trail.” Photos will be judged by professional photographers, and winning entries will be displayed at the Winterville Cultural Center. Deadline Jan. 8, 2026. Winners will be announced February 2026. www. fireflytrail.com
POET LAUREATE (ACCGov) The Leisure Services Arts Division’s Poet Laureate program is now accepting applications. Application deadline Friday, Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. www. accgov.com/11626/Public-Art
PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS
(Athens, GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels
Auditions
DECK THE HOLLOW (ACT) Seeking actors, storytellers, musicians and singers for event at Bear Hollow Zoo. Virtual auditions held through Nov. 30. In-person auditions held Dec. 4, 4–7 p.m. Event held Dec. 11–14. act@accgov.com, 706-613-3628
MAD SCIENTISTS IN LOVE (Town & Gown) Auditions for this romantic comedy will be held Dec. 7–8. Performances held Feb. 6–15,
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Master Chorale) Seeking new members in all voice parts including high sopranos, tenors and basses. Scheduled auditions held at St. Gregory the Great Church. athmcdirector@ gmail.com
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) The Athens Symphony is holding auditions for qualified musicians. www.athenssymphony. org/openings
THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES (The Cottage) Open to all ages, backgrounds, those who identify as women or those who identify with having a vagina. Auditions held Dec. 1, 4 and 9, 6:30–8:30 p.m. and Dec. 7, 2–7 p.m.. Performances Feb. 5–7, 2026. www. northgeorgiacottage.org
Classes
ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 & up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com
BASIC CROCHETING (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn the basics of crocheting. Materials provided during class session. Every Thursday, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. or 6:30–8:30 p.m. $100 for project series, $20 drop-in. www.wintervillecenter.com
CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships
CUBAN MUSIC & MOVEMENT (The Studio Athens) TIMBAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Sundays, 3 p.m. (Level 1), 4 p.m. (Level 2 & 3), 5 p.m. (Advanced). Through Dec. 7, $10 drop-in. timbathens@gmail.com, www.timbathens.com
CUBAN SALSA LESSONS (El Carretonero) SALSAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced) and 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10 drop-in. www.SALS AthensDancing@gmail.com
DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/myrec
FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfreeschool on Instagram.
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
OPEN ICE SKATING (Akins Ford Arena) Athens GA Figure Skating Club offers open ice skating for all skill levels every Monday through Thursday, 4–5 p.m. $10 students, $15 general admission. RSVP required. Athensgafigureskating@ gmail.com, athens_ga_figure_ skating_club
Help Out
ANIMAL SERVICES VOLUNTEERS
(Animal Services Adoption Center) Volunteers needed for daily interactions with the shelter dogs. Sessions run Monday through Friday; training session required. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. www.tidycal.com/animalservices volunteer
ATHENS 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
DIAPER DONATIONS (Athens Area Diaper Bank) Diaper donations needed for local infants. All sizes and open packs/boxes are accepted. www.athensareadiaperbank.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 (Athens Pride and Queer Collective) Applicants with experience in fundraising, event planning, nonprofit governance and communications are especially encouraged to apply. Deadline Nov. 29. www.athens pride.org
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit
homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. the 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. momsadoptingmoms@ gmail.com
SEEKING DONATIONS (The Cottage)
Seeking donations of single-serving, non-perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-off please call 706-546-1133, ext 223.
SEEKING DONATIONS (Hands of Hope) Local homeless ministry accepting donations of winter clothing for their free distribution program. Other donations accepted for fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting program.706-207-5172
SEEKING HOLIDAY VOLUNTEERS
(Athens Area Humane Society)
Temporary fosters and volunteers needed to help care for animals during Nov. and Dec. Applications available online. www.athens humanesociety.org
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Historic Athens) Volunteers and coordinators needed for the Welcome Center’s new field trip program. Completion of virtual training program and background check required. bit.ly/athenswelcome volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (KACCB) Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful has volunteer opportunities that include roadside cleanups, adopt-a-ramp and more. www. keepathensbeautiful.org
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) Volunteers needed for community food distribution events including weekly food kitchen, meal deliveries and more. Also accepting donations of canned and dry goods. wwwmarigold collectivewinterville.com
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Meals on Wheels) Currently recruiting volunteers to deliver meals, engage in safety checks and more. eschley@ accaging.org
SEEING VOLUNTEERS (Morton Theatre) Volunteers needed for upcoming events. Board Member opportunities also available. www. mortontheatre.com/volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Shoal Creek Sanctuary) Volunteers needed for variety of events including invasive plant removal, plant adoptions and more. First Sundays, 1–3:30 p.m. www.shoalcreek sanctuary.org/volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (St. Mary’s Home Health & Hospice) Seeking volunteers to provide companionship or to help with simple tasks for those in hospice care. Training provided. 706-389-2273
SHARE THE WARMTH BLANKET DRIVE (Clarke County Sheriff’s Dept.) Collecting new blankets and throws to distribute to seniors at select nursing homes and children in foster care. Deadline Dec. 15. ccsocommunity@accgov.com
TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store. Please bring credentials. www. accgov.com/trs
TOWELS FOR ANIMALS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and hand rags for bathing animals and cleaning kennels. Donations can be dropped off at the door after hours. www.accgov.com/ animalservices
VOLUNTEER NETWORK (Community Works, Watkinsville) A nonprofit organization that connects volunteers of all ages to events, resources and training opportunities. CWorksOC@gmail.com
Kidstuff
YOUTH MENTORSHIP (Waymaker) Registration open to match teens with one-on-one flexible tutoring services. Focus on academics, confidence building, life skills and more. Volunteers are also welcome to apply. www.way-makers.org
YOUTH PROGRAMS (Sheats Social Services) Registration now open for a variety of weekly programs that provide educational and community support for K-12 students. Volunteers are also needed. www. sheatssocialservices.org
WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION (Athens, GA) The Leisure Services Department offers a diverse selection of activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events. Now registering. www. accgov.com/myrec
Word on the Street
A COURSE OF LOVE (Unity Athens Church) Learn a positive path for spiritual living based on A Course in Miracles. Wednesdays, 10–11:30 a.m. www.unityathens.com
BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations located across Athens with tools, an air pump and more. www. accgov.com/10584/Bike-RepairStations
ESCAPE ROOM (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Register for a themed escape room event designed for ages 5 & up. Multiple sessions on Dec. 31 and Jan. 2-3. $20. www. accgov.com/myrec
FRIDAY EVENTS (Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living) The organization hosts ongoing Friday gatherings. Tech discussions, support groups, movies and games. www.multiplechoices.us/youreinvited
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (Nuçi’s Space) Direct connections to mental healthcare like counseling and psychiatry, medical care for physical concerns and more. www. nuci.org, 706-227-1515
MINDFUL BREATH SANGHA MEETING (Healing Lodge) In the Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Sundays, 1–2:30 p.m. Newcomers welcome. Free. www.mindfulbreathsangha.org
MICROCHIP SCANNING STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Connect lost pets with their owners via scanning stations. 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
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
Diverting Firefly Is Dangerous
Thanks to France Dielmann for her Oct. 22 letter—it helps me understand the sudden and surprising demand to reroute the Firefly Trail.
“The best route would be to Coile Middle School where there is already a four- way stop.” This was never proposed as a viable alternative to route A. Route C parallels Oakmont Circle and crosses Moores Grove. I drove Spring Valley from Taylor Lane to Coile, 0.8 miles of roadside drainage ditch that is expensive to remediate and pave over. Taylor Lane to the intersection with Oakmont Circle via Spring Valley is 1.5 miles, twice the rail bed’s by three-quarters of a mile—expensive and impractical.
I walk my dog every day on the Winterville trail, and I have almost been hit at crosswalks many times. Sometimes, if I happen to have a bag of dog poop in my possession and I draw it back to throw it, the cars will stop instead of blasting through the flashing crosswalk as they usually do. I wrote an email to a business owner in a clearly marked vehicle who almost hit me after two other vehicles had blasted through the crosswalk before him. He was not contrite, and he blamed me.
The houses along the railbed with Carney Lake Road addresses were built between 1925–1980. Georgia Railroad service stopped in 1988. Each house in that section had a railroad in the back yard. To say the trail changes the character of houses built when the railroad was active seems disingenuous. The houses on Moores Grove and Oakmont Circle were built after the railroad was decommissioned, on top of a cut looking down on the rail bed.
Four years ago I walked the disputed properties with commissioners Patrick Davenport and Mike Hamby. I asked Patrick if I could walk the road from Spring Valley to the back side of 300 Carney Lake Road. He said yes, because the county had already acquired it. When I walked the road I found tires and overgrowth—a dumping ground. It was only between the back of 300 and 200 Carney Lake that I saw anything resembling a yard, not more than a quarter-mile.
I remember discussion of how route A would be a windfall for property owners along Carney Lake Road because it would solve their drainage issues at no expense to them. My back yard in Winterville also floods in extreme weather, but it’s rare, just a few times since I moved here in 2020. There was also discussion of a slight diversion to miss a garage, the only major structure jeopardized by the trail.
It’s worth saying that the gradual long curve coming into Winterville between Taylor Lane and the parking lot at Chibugan Cafe is a beautiful and scenic route that will be appreciated by cyclists. I have been on many trails, and I can see how it will be.
Joe Willey Winterville
Condos and Congestion Continue
Edward and Rita Kelly wrote an impassioned response to my original letter to the editor, “Frustration With Commission
Decisions,” in the Oct. 22 issue. It is great to hear from such fierce advocates for affordable housing. Edward and Rita make an important point: Athens needs more affordable housing. I am so excited that wealthy residents in the Five Points neighborhood are advocating for affordable housing. Oftentimes, affluent residents are opposed to such developments (see Steph Curry). Edward and Rita buck this trend.
The condos discussed are pricey; indeed, homes over a million dollars are far from “affordable,” but homes are not built in a vacuum. Study after study shows that housing prices decrease as supply increases (yay for capitalism). The condos built in Five Points, the neighborhoods coming to life on the Eastside, and even the “viewshed blocking” (lol) apartments downtown will all help drive down housing costs. The quest for affordable housing is a “both/and” journey—we must increase the overall supply of housing, and create meaningful pathways and programs for low- and middleincome Athenians to continue living in our community.
Airbnbs et al. do have an impact on our community (I live next to one and have lived to tell the tale… so far). There are better ways we can regulate short- term rentals, but at the end of the day, these condos will bring in important revenue in the form of taxes that will help keep the water running, the roads paved and schools thriving. When you say no to development, you say no to vital funds that will sustain our city. Fear not, Edward and Rita; if your new condo neighbors are an Airbnb, you don’t have to worry about 24/7 “congestion” as the guests will just be visiting. Also, I hate to break it to y’all, but there are already condos, and even apartments in Five Points… oh, the humanity (actually because it’s humans living in them).
Lastly, the concern for congestion: Edward and Rita mention that the proposed condos would have “21 bedrooms. That would mean 21 more automobiles in a zone that has narrow streets with associated congestion.” I urge my fellow Athenians to imagine a world where one bedroom does not equal one car. Twenty-one bedrooms can mean 10 cars and 11 bikes, or five cars, 10 bikes and six scooters; or it could mean zero cars and 21 people taking the bus or walking. My house has two bedrooms and one car; you can do this, too!
Slow-moving traffic around a school actually seems pretty good. We can all contribute to less congestion in our community. Walk or take your bike next time you have an errand to run. Carpool with a friend or take the bus. Cars are expensive, loud and smelly. Athens should support developments that promote walkability and take seriously the ill impacts of cars. The proposed condos are an excellent example of this. These new neighbors will be able to walk to get groceries, grab a coffee, and catch a bus to work. There are trade-offs in every decision we make, but I am not comfortable accepting a housing crisis, worsening homelessness and suburban sprawl in exchange for a traffic- free Five Points.
Ezra Schley Athens
food & drink
Doughn’t Get Your Hopes Up
DOWNTOWN CHAINS THAT DIDN’T RISE TO THE OCCASION
By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com
SULLY’S STEAMERS (255 E. Clayton St., 706- 850-0210, sullyssteamers.com): I’ve been skeptical of this place since it was announced. I’ve had steamed sandwiches before that I liked, including at a barbecue place in Lawrenceville that made them with ham, lettuce and tomato, but the form is tricky to get right. Sully’s doesn’t just make steamed sandwiches, though, it makes steamed bagel sandwiches. When I first had one, the words “look how they massacred my boy” sprang unbidden to my mind, for the essence of bagelness had been extracted by the big tortilla steamer. No chewiness, no crisp toastiness, just some kind of wet bread that held ingredients together. You could say this is true of many breakfast items: a tortilla obviously, or sometimes a biscuit, wrapped in foil and steamed into a Thing-like melange of components.
the logistics and the neatness of the place (terrifying AI-looking mural of a bulldog holding out a drippy bagel sandwich in its long-nailed paws with the Georgia Theatre in the background excepted). It might not be my thing, but it could be yours.
Sully’s Steamers is open 7 a.m.–8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 7 a.m.–3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday and 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Sunday.
STONER’S PIZZA POINT (175 E. Broad St., 706-465-5420, stonerspizzajoint.com): Is it foolish nostalgia to say that, once upon a time, restaurants were more functional? I understand that my expectations should not have been high, given that this is a weed- themed pizza place that keeps late-night hours and is a chain. And they weren’t. And I was still disappointed. Cost cutting, thin margins, bad labor practices in the industry, an epidemic of overpromising, lack of training, underestimating the consumer (and being proven right to do so over and over) and more have made this kind of experience miserable. I don’t care if I sound like an unc: restaurants can be good, even low-end chain ones that care more about a buck than about feeding you properly. If you walk into a place and there’s one person working there, and it’s the same person who takes your order as who prepares your food, that is mostly a warning sign. If there are other folks tapping their feet in impatience, same deal.
Get over the expectations of a bagel, and think of this place as the result of someone working in a burrito shop who wondered what else they could steam, and you might be happier. The bigger the flavors to begin with, the less they get muted by the steaming process, and classics like sausage, egg and cheese are better than anything that includes avocado.
The place runs well. Everyone is nice and professional. It keeps long but predictable hours. Your sandwich is ready speedily, whether you order online or at the register. If you get the bagel that has Doritos on it (which of course you should), they’ll pop the rest of the bag of chips in with your order as a bit of lagniappe. The price is reasonable, and the sandwiches are fairly large. I may not adore the result, but I do admire
Usually I go to every place I write about twice, but there are exceptions, and serving a bad, slow, expensive pizza will put you on that list. Maybe the focus is on the late night hours, when crowds are bigger and less opinionated. Maybe someone else didn’t show up for work that day. But if you search the Google reviews for Stoner’s, you’ll see multiple people complaining that they were served an extremely underbaked pizza, which suggests it’s a pattern and not a one- time thing. Pizza is usually pretty good even when it’s not very good, but it’s got to be baked all the way through, and if you’re going to err in a direction, go with overbaking rather than by producing something Paul Hollywood would roll irritatedly between his finger and thumb and pronounce “raw.” It wasn’t actually raw, but it also wasn’t baked. f
