FP260121

OWNED SINCE

Beverly Buchanan

A Holistic View of the Artist in Two Exhibitions p. 8

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alicia Nickles

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner

ADVERTISING SALES Dave Martin, Isabella Williams

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin

CITY EDITOR Blake Aued

MUSIC EDITOR Sam Lipkin

ARTS & CULTURE COORDINATOR Libba Beaucham

OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene

CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene

AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson

CONTRIBUTORS Erin France, 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

Whether it’s a chef-led cooking class, a fine bottle of wine, locally-sourced ingredients, or a gift card for the ultimate foodie experience, Athens Cooks has something for every taste. Visit us in-store for great recommendations from our staff or online at athenscooks.com.

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city dope

Missing Middle

COULD THE LATEST PLAN FOR CHEAPER HOUSING FINALLY WIN APPROVAL?

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

A new proposal to allow a wider variety of housing types in single- family neighborhoods could gain more traction than past efforts, based on who’s behind it.

The Athens team working on the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing is recommending easing local zoning laws to allow “missing middle” housing in single- family zones. Such housing includes flag lots with limited street frontage, accessory dwellings or in-law suites, clustered cottage courts, duplexes, townhouses and small apartment buildings. All of those are currently illegal to build in RS zones, where generally the only type of housing allowed is detached single- family homes.

Current RS zoning incentivizes developers to build the largest and most expensive house possible. But if they could subdivide lots or put more than one unit on the same lot, they could build smaller, less expensive housing and still turn a profit.

“We have more than a problem. We have a crisis,” Charles Smith, a GICH subcommittee member and vice president for operations at Athens Area Habitat for Humanity, told county commissioners at a Jan. 13 work session. “We think Athens- Clarke County should remove barriers to home construction that have no effect on life, health or safety.”

and stem skyrocketing housing costs. But the commission has taken no action because adding density to neighborhoods is politically unpopular: In 2022 the commission voted down a proposal to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) over garages or in backyards.

Ovita Thornton was one of those critics of higher density, and said she knew nothing about housing policy when she was elected in 2018. Now, though, Thornton

industries from places people lived, but whites weaponized it after the Supreme Court outlawed racially explicit covenants and Congress passed the Fair Housing Act in the 1960s.

“The people who wanted to restrict Black people from neighborhoods didn’t stop trying to do that,” Hall said. “They looked for other ways to do that. And what they found was zoning.”

At that time, Athens and many other cities started to ban less expensive types of housing and require homes to be built on large lots, essentially preventing lowincome people from living in single- family neighborhoods as a proxy for keeping out Black residents.

Before then, it was common for parents to build houses for grown children on unusually shaped lots in the backyard, Hall said. Those can’t be built today, but many

will still get built, but so will more homes for the residents of Athens,” committee member and real estate agent Danielle Gillmer said.

The committee is also proposing to change the way ACC measures income for down payment and mortgage assistance. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s guidelines leave out some people who can’t afford to buy a house without help but just miss the threshold to qualify. U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines for rural housing programs have a wider range. However, ACC can only opt for the USDA guidelines for programs that don’t involve HUD funding.

The mayor and commission is also considering selling some of the buildings it leases to nonprofits as they continue to tweak the formula for deciding how much rent to charge those organizations.

The ideas presented were nothing new, either in Athens or nationally. Cities like Minneapolis have been loosening their zoning laws to encourage more housing construction and bring down costs. Locally, several reports over the years on workforce housing, affordable housing and missing middle housing have made similar recommendations to address a housing shortage

has become a proponent of missing middle housing after participating in GICH discussions that grew out of an affordable housing summit she organized last year. “One thing we do, and we do too much of, is we meet and it never happens. We study, and it collects dust,” she said.

Matthew Hall, a planning commissioner who teaches a class on real estate law at UGA, detailed the history of using zoning as a tool for racial discrimination. Originally, the purpose of zoning was to separate

older neighborhoods in Athens still have those types of missing middle housing predating the 1960s, as Commissioner Melissa Link pointed out.

“Effectively what previous generations of this commission, frankly, did was take types of housing that were available to poor people and to African American people and made them illegal,” Hall said. “That is how we got the zoning code we have now.”

The ACC government last updated its zoning code about 25 years ago but will be revising it over the next couple of years. The first step is for the commission to approve a new future land use map showing what types of development should be allowed parcel by parcel in Athens. After two years of public input and commission discussion, that is scheduled for a vote in February.

“One of the primary purposes of that policy document is to set the table for these types of strategies to come immediately next,”

Planning Director Bruce Lonnee said.

Mayor Kelly Girtz said he would tee up a resolution assigning the planning commission, an advisory board, to bring forward recommendations on missing middle zoning changes.

Still, the political challenges remain. “I love it all, but let’s talk about the reality here… I know that the people who live in single- family zones are going to be—we’re going to hear a lot,” Commissioner Carol Myers said. “Where do we get the political strength to do something like this?”

Other recommendations from the GICH group include getting rid of minimum parking requirements and letting the market decide how much parking is needed. Two cars take up as much space as a twobedroom apartment, and those costs are passed on to renters and buyers. “Parking

In 2021 then- commissioner Mariah Parker noticed a discrepancy between how much groups were charged for rent at ACCowned buildings like the Prince Avenue firehall, the Taylor-Grady House and the Miriam Moore Community Center. Some paid just $1 while others—mainly run by African Americans—paid more.

In changing the formula, though, some groups saw drastic rent hikes. The Junior League of Athens, for example, declined to renew its lease on the Taylor-Grady House. So commissioners have been trying to find a balance. Under the latest proposal, nonprofits could get a discount of 50% or nearly 100% if they meet certain criteria for board governance, fiscal transparency and service to the community, or if they receive a large amount of funding from the ACC government.

ACC Manager Bob Cowell questioned whether ACC should continue owning all of those buildings, many of them historic and expensive to maintain. “Not suggesting any of these should go away, but I think there ought to be a conversation in light of other capital needs for buildings, facilities that we operate out of as well,” he said.

Girtz said he would “assign a variant of that to the property committee,” noting that staff is spending “hundreds and hundreds of hours” on community engagement and maintenance. The county could put historic preservation easements on those buildings and make right of first refusal a condition of sale so someone doesn’t buy and flip or demolish them. That would allow the local government to “really focus our time on core government functions,” Girtz said.

“I don’t necessarily think it’s a bad idea, but I’d hate to see some of these proper-

ties go on the market and become profitgenerating properties that agencies like these can no longer afford,” Link said.

College Square

Construction Starting

Construction is set to start soon on a College Square beautification project, if it hasn’t started already. And it could come as a shock to those who haven’t been following it.

“Phase One is going to be jarring,” said David Lynn, director of planning and outreach for the Athens Downtown Development Authority. “It’s going to be a complete demolition. Trees, everything are going to go there, so it might raise some concerns.”

Athens- Clarke County officials and construction contractors have been in touch with the businesses on College Square and will try to plan their work to avoid blocking doorways during business hours, SPLOST project manager Diana Jackson said at the ADDA’s Jan. 14 meeting.

The first phase will include tearing up the block of College Avenue between Broad and Clayton streets and replacing the asphalt with brick pavers. Trees will be removed, but replaced with new mature trees. That phase will take about 10–12 weeks, Jackson said.

approved earlier this month. Hotel Abacus has stopped booking guests after the end of April, so “I expect to see hammers swinging late this spring,” Girtz said.

Hull Resigns From School Board

Clarke County Board of Education member Nicole Hull announced her resignation last week effective June 30.

A special election will be held Nov. 3 to replace Hull, who represents District 8 on the Eastside. The rest of the board could also appoint a temporary replacement who would serve between June 30 and the special election. Hull’s term ends in 2028.

The board unanimously re-elected Mumbi Anderson to a two- year term as president and Mark Evans as vice president. Board member Tim Denson nominated Evans for president, but he declined the nomination.

The school board also heard a presentation at its Jan. 15 meeting on the Campbell Lane building at the long- vacant West Broad School. It is structurally sound and safe to use as classrooms, but would need “extensive modifications” to serve as a construction lab.

“Construction labs have a little bit higher loading conditions. Obviously there’s different equipment, materials that need storage and so forth,” structural engineer Janice Weaver said.

The latest plan for Athens’ last remaining school for Black children dating back to

Subsequent phases will focus on the sidewalks within 12 feet of buildings. The plan is to break them into small chunks so that workers can get done with the sidewalk in front of one business quickly and move on to the next.

Overall, the $7 million project, funded mostly by parking fees, will take about eight to 10 months to complete. When it’s finished, officials hope that the pedestrianized College Square, which was closed to cars in 2021, will be a more inviting place.

Meanwhile, a pocket park in what used to be the Costa Building’s parking lot, next door to City Hall, is expected to open in March. The building was recently renovated and now houses ACC government offices. The park will include a stage for musical performances and would be perfect for AthFest’s kid- friendly programming, Mayor Kelly Girtz suggested.

The ADDA board also authorized a land swap for a student housing development near Lay Park that the ACC Commission

Kemp’s Agenda GOVERNOR

LAYS OUT PRIORITIES FOR 2026

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

College scholarships, bonuses for state employees and road work on State Route 316 are among Gov. Brian Kemp’s priorities this legislative session as he enters his final year in office.

Kemp told state legislators last week that he would “address hardworking Georgians’ concerns about the persistently high cost of living and everyday necessities,” which he blamed on the Biden administration.

He called on the legislature to issue refunds to taxpayers—up to $250 for single people and $500 for married couples—for the fourth time. He also called for a 0.2point reduction in the state income tax, down to 4.99%.

“We must continue doing everything in our power to help the hardworking men of our state keep more of their hard-earned money in their pocket in the years to come,” he said during his annual State of the State address at the Capitol Jan. 15.

Even with those expenses, the state would still have more than $10 billion in reserves, Kemp said—enough to get through a recession without drastic cuts like those seen during the Perdue and Deal administrations. “It is not a question of whether hard times will hit our state again. It is a question of when,” Kemp said.

the ACA subsidies have expired,” Rep. Carolyn Hugley (D- Columbus) said after Kemp’s speech, according to Capitol Beat News Service. “There are cuts to Medicaid coming down to us from the federal government. That’s a real challenge, and I’m surprised that it was not mentioned.”

Democrats also questioned whether a one- time tax break would really help struggling families. But they applauded Kemp for introducing the DREAM Scholarship.

The governor traditionally lays out his agenda during the first week of the 40-day legislative session, which starts in early or

In addition, Kemp announced a $2,000 supplement for all state employees, including educators and law enforcement. “Our state employees have done an incredible job in unprecedented times and are one of the driving forces behind Georgia’s success,” he said.

the segregation era, introduced by interim superintendent Jennifer Scott last year, is to put the Athens Community Career Academy’s construction pathway there. It has been empty since 2009.

The Campbell Lane building, constructed in the late 1950s, was a point of contention in 2021, when the Clarke County School District was considering an early learning center at the West Broad School. CCSD’s consultants said it should be torn down, but local historic preservation advocates said it could be saved. Since then, vagrants have broken in, used it for storage and even set fires. The roof has been damaged by vegetative growth, and the building has also suffered water damage, but the steel structure has “great bones,” according to Weaver.

In addition, CCDD is seeking public feedback on what community members want in a new permanent superintendent. A survey is available at the district’s website, clarke. k12.ga.us. The deadline to fill it out is Jan. 31. f

The governor applauded the University System Board of Regents for keeping tuition in check and legislators for restoring the full HOPE Scholarship covering 100% of in- state tuition. He said the state has added 897 medical residencies, and with the new UGA medical school set to open this summer, he said he would add another $2.1 million “to continue this upward trend in such a critical need.”

Kemp also said his amended 2026 budget would include a $325 million endowment for the DREAM Scholarship, the state’s first need-based scholarship program. “I believe we owe it to every child to start out on a level playing field, no matter their zip code,” he said.

Left unaddressed was health care, at a time when nearly 200,000 Georgians lost their insurance because congressional Republicans refused to renew Affordable Care Act Subsidies.

“We have been talking about expanding Medicaid year after year. And we know that

mid- January and usually wraps up in early April. The day before his last State of the State speech, Kemp announced $2 billion in road funding at another key event, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues breakfast. That includes $200 million to continue building interchanges on 316, turning it into a freeway between Athens and Lawrenceville.

“It shouldn’t take you a full afternoon to get from Athens to Atlanta or vice versa,” said the Athens native, who lives in Winterville when he’s not at the governor’s mansion in Buckhead.

Kemp also said he would spend $1.8 billion on express lanes for I-75 to Henry County south of Atlanta. Those projects might not do much to reduce congestion in the long run, though, because research shows that widening roads only encourages more people to drive, filling up the new lanes with cars—a concept known as induced demand.

As Atlanta prepares to host the soccer World Cup this summer—an event expected to draw 500,000 visitors—Kemp also announced $50 million in grants to address homelessness in Atlanta and other urban areas. The grants will fund shelters, transitional housing and addiction and mental health services. “This grant will act as a force multiplier to complement the good work already underway by Mayor [Andre] Dickens and other champions on this challenging issue,” Kemp said. f

A pocket park next to the Costa Building downtown is set to open in March.

Two Invasions

THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION STARTS 2026 WITH A BANG

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

Keeping up with the mad machinations of the Trump regime is like trying to put out a wildfire with a water pistol. The new year was barely a week old on Jan. 7 when the city of Minneapolis was again the scene of tragedy after an ICE agent named Jonathan Ross shot and killed a woman named Renee Good not far from the street where George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis policeman six years ago.

As Minneapolis seethed, the Trump administration flexed its military muscle in Venezuela and issued bellicose threats toward Colombia, Cuba and Iran. Even Greenland—a sparsely populated island territory of Denmark—has heard Trump’s belligerent bombast, straining the longstanding military and diplomatic alliance between the United States and other NATO member countries like Denmark.

The Trump administration claims that drug trafficking by the corrupt and autocratic Venezuelan strongman Nicolas Maduro was the reason to take armed action against the country, but Trump recently pardoned former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was doing a 45- year stretch in a U.S. federal prison for his involvement in smuggling a whopping 400 tons of cocaine into America. Now Trump vows to “run” Venezuela as he invites petroleum executives to the White House to discuss the future of that oil-rich South American country. Dusty and faded “No Blood For Oil” placards left over from protests against the Iraq War two decades ago may soon be seen again at peace rallies in 2026.

While war clouds gathered over Venezuela, the eyes of the world were focused on the Midwest metropolis of Minneapolis after the killing of Good by ICEman Ross.

During a fiery press conference, the mayor called the administration’s claims about the shooting “bullshit,” and he demanded that ICE agents “get the fuck out of Minneapolis.” Mayor Frey and others in Minnesota are calling for legal action in the case, but the Trump gang wants to block any state investigation.

Writing in The New York Times on Jan. 10, Frey recalled the 2007 bridge collapse that killed 13 people in Minneapolis. The mayor praised the George W. Bush administration for quick and humane response to the disaster: “In the immediate aftermath, the president, a Republican, showed up in a city full of Democrats ready to help.” Now, Frey lamented, such bipartisan aid is a thing of the past with the Trump team in the White House.

The mayor also said that he had watched multiple videos of Good’s shooting. “It seems clear,” he wrote, “that Ms. Good, a mother of three, was trying to leave the scene, not attack an agent.”

Today’s Trump regime shows what the French philosopher Voltaire meant in 1765 when he wrote, “Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.” f

Folks over 40 might still have one of these signs in their closet.

Beverly Buchanan

UGA GIVES ATHENS ARTIST HER DUE

By Rebecca McCarthy arts@flagpole.com

Ittook only 39 years for artist Beverly Buchanan to have a solo exhibit in the town she called home from 1987 until 2010, but finally she’s being celebrated. If you didn’t know her, once you walk through UGA’s Athenaeum and see work from the different social networks she cultivated in Athens, you will realize just how much you missed. Buchanan died in 2015 at age 74 in Ann Arbor, MI.

Visual artists Katz Tepper and Mo Costello have curated “Beverly’s Athens: Beverly Buchanan in Athens, GA,” which opened in the Athenaeum gallery at 297 W. Broad St. on Jan. 17. Supported with a grant from the Teiger Foundation, the two independent curators spent more than four years researching Buchanan’s life in Athens and tracking down the art she created while based in the city.

“What they are doing is unprecedented,” says retired UGA art professor Judy McWillie. “They contextualize and illuminate her work. It’s Beverly being in her world, in Athens, and Beverly seeing Athens.”

Among other art works, the exhibition features drawings, greeting cards, photographs, postcards, a diary, small sculptures, Polaroids and spirit jars covered with small objects—many from Reed’s Odds and Ends. Buchanan loved shopping there. In many

cases, these creations were gifts for her friends, neighbors and caretakers, including pulmonologist Steven Lucas. A 1996 calendar she gave him features monthly selfportraits, and it’s the first thing greeting you in the exhibition.

Behind it is an environment, or thematic section, that focuses on Rocksprings Street and the shotgun shacks still there, shown in photographs and drawings. Buchanan was a student of Southern vernacular architecture. A collection of documents—a map, a flier, records, a resolution—details the demolition of homes on College Avenue and in Linnentown during Urban Renewal in the 1960s. “By bringing her materials into dialogue with archival records on Linnentown, we hoped to charge the site of the exhibition itself, placing Buchanan’s work in conversation with the community-led efforts against erasure that continue to shape Athens today,” Tepper says.

In another section, the focus is on Hawthorne Drugs, where pharmacist Andy Ullrich filled Buchanan’s various prescriptions. She was a regular at the pharmacy and at the lunch counter, and she wrote and drew on prescription notepads, saying, “My pharmacy is a social, friendly place where you can eat lunch while waiting for your arthritis medicine.”

Concurrent with the Athenaeum’s exhibition is “Shacks, Stories and Spirit: Beverly Buchanan’s Art of Home” at the Georgia Museum of Art, which opened Jan. 3 and runs through June 28. While “Beverly’s Athens” explores the elements that shaped Buchanan’s work while in Athens, “Shacks, Stories and Spirit” focuses on a wider theme of resilience throughout her life. Her sculptural shacks made out of found materials commemorate Black Southern geography and traditions, representing layers of history and emotion.

“Beverly Buchanan’s art speaks to the South in such an intimate, powerful way,” says Shawnya Harris, the Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson curator of African American and African diasporic art, in a press release. “She lived here, she knew its landscapes, and she turned everyday materials into narratives of belonging.”

The museum is hosting a spring semester open house on Jan. 24 from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. where the exhibition will be on view, and there will be a curator talk by Harris on Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. Later this spring an Artful Conversation on Buchanan’s found-object sculpture “Medicine Woman” will be held with Callan Steinmann, the museum’s director of learning and engagement, on Apr. 15 at 2 p.m. [Sam Lipkin]

Debbie Ullrich once gave Beverly compounding pharmaceutical spatulas, thinking she could use them in her studio for mixing paint. Instead, Buchanan broke the spatulas and created a small chair sculpture, about six inches high, which she gave back to the couple. The chair is on display.

There’s a video created by Judy McWillie that shows Buchanan in her lush back yard on Boulevard, where she lived in her home for more than 10 years. And there are large photos of her studio and yard, plus a room focused on her father, Walter Buchanan, and other important influences in her life.

Beverly Buchanan was born in Fuquay, NC, in 1940. When her parents divorced, she was adopted by her great aunt and uncle, Marion and Walter Buchanan. She grew up in Orangeburg, SC, where her father was a professor and the dean of the College of Agriculture at South Carolina State University, the state’s only historically Black public college. She would ride with him as he advised tenant farmers about best practices, urging them to practice crop rotation. On those trips, she saw the many shacks that later informed some of her most well-known work.

With a bachelor of science degree in medical technology from Bennett College, Buchanan headed to Columbia University in 1962, where she earned master’s degrees in both parasitology and public health. She

worked at a Veterans Affairs hospital in the Bronx and in public health in New Jersey. She was accepted to medical school but chose not to attend so she would have more time to do art. That decision was difficult, she said later.

In the early 1970s, after she decided to devote herself fully to art, she began studying with Norman Lewis in the Art Students League in New York. Both Lewis and Romare Bearden became friends with and mentors for her. In 1977, she moved to Macon, where she continued doing her art—sculpting in cement—and teaching at Stratford Academy.

In 1987, she came to Athens and settled in Forest Heights. Several chronic health conditions meant her days of working with monumental cement were over, but she continued doing her large drawings. While seated, she could also work on her smaller shacks and spirit jars.

Visual artist Mary Porter was a longtime friend and next-door neighbor of Buchanan. The exhibit includes one of Buchanan’s small shacks, covered in found objects, which she had given Porter and her husband, artist Reid McCallister.

“I just loved Beverly and loved her work,” Porter says. “When you drive along and see abandoned houses and barns, they can evoke a memory. Her work immortalizes memory.” f

Monday, October 20

STUDENT CONCERTO COMPETITION WINNER CONCERT with the UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Program:

and more!

ARCO Chamber Orchestra presents “The Journey”

THURSDAY, JAN. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Hodgson Concert Hall. FOR TICKETS:

$20 - Adults

$3 UGA students music.uga.edu

706-542-4400

FEATURING UGA MUSIC STUDENTS:

Trey Floyd, tenor; Daniel Johnson, bassoon Hoberdan Peno, guitar; Luis Umbelino Da Silva, clarinet; Tzu-Wei Wang piano; and Josh Wood, horn. The soloists performing in this concert are selected after advancing through a rigorous competition process judged by UGA Music faculty.

UPCOMING FREE PERFORMANCES

Day of AND

FIRE SUN

UGA CHORAL PROJECT

FRIDAY, JAN. 23 at 7:30 p.m.

Ramsey Concert Hall

CALEB CARPENTER, saxophone

MONDAY, JAN. 26 at 6 p.m.

Edge Recital Hall

School of Music Bldg, 250 River Road GUEST ARTIST

FACULTY ARTIST SERIES

JEAN MARTIN-WILLIAMS, horn

JAMES NAIGUS, horn

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA WIND ENSEMBLE CHAMBER WINDS GUEST ARTIST

ROBERT McDONALD, piano

McDonald has toured extensively as a soloist in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and South America.

FRIDAY, JAN. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall

All Hugh Hodgson School of Music events take place at the UGA Performing Arts Center, 230 River Road in Athens unless indicated.

Featuring Josquin Missa Pange Lingua. Music of DiOrio, Kačinskas, Monteverdi and more.

Single “Spanis Moss”

PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

FOR THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE: There’s a limited edition CD version of Rubber Udder’s album from last November, Laryngeal Bacterium Foamage up the Spitwad Crux of the Post-Nasular Region. This new edition is simply titled Post-Nasal, but it’s the same batch of songs. At any rate, it’s a good album if you’re into this sort of thing, and the CD comes courtesy of the Lead Mouth label. Find it at leadmouth.bandcamp.com.

7-3 SPLIT: I feel like I waited the entire Christmas season just for this one. It’s the brand new split release between Obscurity and Ixian. It’s not really titled other than calling it Split, but it has 10 tracks of which three are by Obscurity and the rest by Ixian. Obscurity appears to have deliberately built their portion as their tracks move quickly from the ponderous electro-destructo of “R&R” to the dystopian new wave of “Smile” to the dance floor apocalypse of “Untitled-3” (compete with a drum and bass intro!). Now, if we can accept that Obscurity is the surface-level devil of this collection, then we can accept that Ixian is the ballast that threatens to pull the listener as far down as aurally possible. Ixian’s seven tracks are barely distinguishable except for the nearly tuneful “Pursed Black Lips.” The rest is a messy catalog of noise, static, electronic blast beats, nihilism and aggressiveness. Make no mistake, this is not for everybody. Not even close. But it is for me and a bunch of you out there. It’s available as a digital download and cassette tape. Find this at primordialvoid.bandcamp.com.

CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE DEPARTMENT: Congratulations are in order for the recently betrothed Ryan Lewis, who also just happens to be the music and popular culture curator for the UGA Special Collections Library, a position that should

be understood to be essentially the state of Georgia’s curator for this type of material. Last year he, in coordination with the Walter J. Brown Media Archives and Peabody Awards Support Fund (good

into merely 10 tracks. That the longest of these, in an album with several long tracks, comes in at 11 minutes (the relatively sublime “Compromised Asset”) is no matter. Ihlyatt never wastes space. Anyway, I got distracted by something and stopped paying attention, and then realized several minutes later the album was still playing. All of which is to say that J. Anderssen, who composed and performed all this, really nailed it in the album notes when he describes this as “ambient noise to ponder your orb to.” Not sure I could do a better job, so I won’t try. This is also available on CD courtesy of Lead Mouth, but you can

three- song release from Face Baby. And it’s so short I had time left over. It’s just a blast of black metal noodling, subterranean demonic vocals and other noise. Short, but a decent time. It lives over at grangrump media.bandcamp.com if you want to take a listen.

KICK IT: Do y’all remember back in November when I told you about The Glow Studio’s new singles compilation Fall Fingles? Well, KIT’s song “Spanis Moss” (sic) just got released by the band this month as a standalone single. I’ve got to hand it to them for being the only band on that entire compilation to take their song and run with it. So, the short story is this is so solidly mid-1970s hard rock it’s not even funny. It runs just over six minutes long, owes its entire life to big ’ol fat boy riffs of the sort that, say, Mountain and Montrose and Sabbath and Jethro Tull used to propagate. Perhaps slightly incongruous, but not disastrously so, are the band’s incredibly smooth, nearly choirboy vocals that never miss a note or inflection. It took me a couple of listens to get this under my skin, but once I did I dug it. Find this on Spotify, and keep up with KIT over at kitmusicathens.com.

God, what a mouthful!), undertook a fundraising effort to pool $60,000 to dedicate to the full restoration of 1986’s Athens, Ga. Inside/Out. As of a few weeks ago it is fully funded. If you’d like to see where this money is going and the plans for it, please head over to give.uga.edu/funders/insideout- funder and read up.

TRUTH IN ADVERTISING: So, there I was listening to the new Ihlyatt album, Voyeur, and was kind of marveling at its economy of packing at least a week’s worth of brutality

also just get the digital download if you like. Dig it at the same place, leadmouth.bandcamp.com.

EVERYONE’S GOT THE TIME: Everything that comes out on Gran Grump Media seems to be related. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but for a while I’ve wondered if a lot of this stuff was just the same people doing things under different project names. I dunno and, right at this minute, don’t have time to go into it. However, I did have two and a half minutes to listen to the new

CATCHING UP: I hate that I let the most recent release by Sleep Deficit slip right past me a couple of months ago. The new three- song EP is named The Passing Time and songwriter Tori Jones remains in fine form here. These are fully composed songs, but with sparse accompaniment of mainly guitars and vocals. The jumping off point of “Nothing New” delivers a sense of ennui so profound it’s almost breathtaking. The other two songs (“Your Flesh Will Embarrass You” and “Barrow County Blues”) follow in similar fashion, but the hard work of establishing the record’s theme was done by the first song. The rest is gravy. Find this as soon as you can at sleep deficit.bandcamp.com. f

KIT

JILL BLACKMON

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22ND

SONGWRITER

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23RD

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24TH

live music calendar

Tuesday 20

Hendershot’s

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

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

Wednesday 21

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $42–96. pac.uga.edu

LEIF OVE ANDSNES Celebrated Norwegian pianist performing selections by two esteemed Eastern European composers: György Kurtág and Leoš Janáček. Porterhouse Grill

7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens.

com

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

Thursday 22

40 Watt Club

Tank Touring Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.), $12. www.40watt.com

WORKIN’ PAST MIDNIGHT Local rock band.

SWEET TEA PEDIGREE Local Southern rock band.

THE WRAPS Dynamic local rock act with sounds reminiscent of the Drive-By Truckers. Athentic Brewing Co.

6:30–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com

SONGWRITERS ANONYMOUS Featuring songwriters Dodd Ferrelle, McKenna Reckless and michael joe white in the round. Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.

com

FLATLINE DRIVE A mix of country, rock and indie.

REBECCA SKELTON Pop singersongwriter.

TATTOO LOGIC Athens-based five piece funk punk band with compositional chops.

Georgia Theatre

6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $29.49–37.54. www.georgiatheatre. com

ZOSO One of the longest-tenured Led Zeppelin tribute bands returns to Athens.

Hendershots

Vic Chesnutt Awards Kickoff Event.

7:30 p.m. FREE! www.vicchesnutt award.com

LANE MARIE Indie pop artist raised in Athens whose work explores the ups and downs of the human experience.

GOODIE Athens indie singersongwriter who grew up on Motown and pop-punk.

LITTLE MAE Trio blending indie, pop and shoegaze, drawing from influences such as Samia, Mercury and Alice Phoebe Lou.

CHARLIE & NANCY HARTNESS

Old-time string duo that sings and

plays fiddle, banjo, ukulele, guitar and mandolin.

Normal Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ normal_bar_athens

ATHENS MIDDLE EAST

ORCHESTRA Athens very own Middle Eastern inspired outfit that focuses on the musical culture of Egypt, Turkey, Israel, Syria and more.

Nowhere Bar

Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 9:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/Nowhere BarAthens

THE PSYCODELICS Charleston, SC band refining the sounds pioneered by Parliament-Funkadelic and Sly & the Family Stone.

Ramsey Hall

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

FACULTY RECITAL Featuring pianist Liza Stepanova.

LUCKY DUCK Athens-based jamfusion band.

Athentic Brewing Co.

6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

OL’ FADER New rock band.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

BADKILL Baddest, deadest local punk rock band.

INSTANT SMILE Local heavy pop duo.

HONEYPUPPY Four-piece indie rock band self-described as a “menace to society.”

REGULATOR Music for mounting up.

BAYOU PRINCESS Weirdo hyper dance rock with moments of swampy sedation, equal parts silly and dark.

VIOLENT VIOLET Loud and fun garage punk outfit.

Ramsey Hall

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

UGA CHORAL PROJECT Roster of singers built alongside an intensive rehearsal schedule, usually spanning no more than two weeks.

VFW Post 2872

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

RAMBLIN’ COUNTRY BAND Georgia-based band playing country, western and rock classics. Line dancing during the band breaks.

Saturday 24

40 Watt Club

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

SPACE PROM Nashville psychpop artist Nordista Freeze’s touring show of retro music, galactic attire

Rialto Club

Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7:30 p.m. $20 (adv.), $25. bit.ly/Jim LauderdaleJan22

JIM LAUDERDALE Grammy Award-winning Americana legend still pushing creative boundaries with his new album Game Changer

JIM WHITE Winterville-based singer-songwriter with a canny lyrical style and a Southern gothic flair. The World Famous 9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous athens

PROBLEMS Composer-driven, one-person electronic music operation from Chicago.

RAUNCHER Project blending electronic, house and bass music.

ORGANICALLY PROGRAMMED

Oliver Domingo’s electronic spacethemed act, which utilizes primitive drum machines and synthesizers to create disco-pop, jazz and easy listening inspired compositions.

Friday 23

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15 (adv.), $20. www.40watt.com

BARNHOUSE Local five-piece rock band.

WAX MONKEY Five-piece jam band composed of childhood friends hailing from Birmingham, AL.

The Foundry

6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $15–100. jeanatjax@gmail.com, bit.ly/DeadBeatClubRedux

DEAD BEAT CLUB REDUX

Artist2Artist, Inc. hosts a night of karaoke with live backing music by Classic City Jukebox. Choose from 100 songs.

Georgia Theatre

6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $34.96 www.georgiatheatre.com

SISTER HAZEL Gainesville, FLbased alternative rock band who mixes pop, folk pop, country and Southern rock.

Hendershot’s

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

SWING THEORY Athenian jazz collective plays standards and arrangements.

Normal Bar

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

DJ NATE & DJ KURT WOOD

Two Athens-based vinyl hounds bringing you all the best ’60s soul platters that matter for your dancing pleasure.

Nowhere Bar

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

BLOODKIN Originally formed by Eric Carter and the late Daniel Hutchens in 1986, this gritty rock and roll group has accumulated a catalog of over 500 songs.

making sense of identity and the meaning of home.

LÉNA BARTELS Strange and brilliant rock music based in Brooklyn, NY.

LITTLE MAE Trio blending indie, pop and shoegaze, drawing from influences such as Samia, Mercury and Alice Phoebe Lou.

JULIA BARFIELD Young singersongwriter with roots in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains.

The Foundry Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7:30 p.m. $15–120. www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA

THE VIOLIN SUMMIT PROJECT Four violinists (Ivan Strunin, Leah Calvert, Adam Poulin, Keiko Ishibashi) along with a rhythm section consisting of Jeff Reilly on drums, Tommy Sauter on bass and Erik Olsen on keys recreate the 1968 Violin Summit concert, a seminal performance in jazz violin history.

Georgia Theatre

Rock the Ark. 5:45 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $34.96–70.81. www. athensark.org/rocktheark

WIM TAPLEY & THE CANNONS

Local alternative, folk-pop songwriter and his band rooted in Americana and neo soul sounds.

KARMA KAT Local band with sounds of rock, pop and funky jazz. They’ll rock your whiskers off! Hendershot’s

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.hendershotsathens.com

AMERICAN DELHI Athens band that recently released its sophomore album We Buy Gold

MICHAEL CARNES A blend of pop-punk and indie folk held up by meditative lyrics.

Holy Cross Lutheran Church

6 p.m. FREE! www.holycrossathens. com

and storytelling, featuring special guests like Hotel Fiction, Black Kids, Modern Skirts, Well Kept, Telemarket and many more.

Athentic Brewing Co. 8–11:30 p.m. $10. www.athentic brewing.com

NOCHE DE BAILE DJ Mike Arana, TIMBAthens and SALSAthens host a monthly dance social with the latest Latin music. The evening kicks off with a dance class.

Boutier Winery & Inn

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

SCARLET STITCH Local rock and roll band influenced by outlaw country, jam bands and alternative rock.

Ciné

Athens Goth Night Dance Party. 9 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com

DJ CROWE DJ Steven Crowe.

DJ TOMB LILY Adria Stembridge of Tears For The Dying spins deathrock, post-punk, goth and more.

TWIN POWERS Local DJ who is also a member of DJ trio Booty Boyz.

DJ GOTH DAD Dustin Gannon of Vision Video leads a dance party spinning goth, post-punk, ’80s, Halloween music and more. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $12. www.flicker theatreandbar.com

LAMPLIGHT The folk songwriting project of Ian Hatcher-Williams,

Hugh Hodgson School of Music Edge Hall. 6 p.m. FREE! music.uga. edu

GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring saxophonist Caleb Carpenter. Normaltown Brewing Co.

6:30 p.m. (sign-ups), 7–9 p.m. (show). FREE! www.normaltown brewingco.com

MONDAY FUNDAY FUNK JAM Will Shine hosts this open jam with a house band made up of rotating local musicians.

Tuesday 27

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

KENOSHA KID The brainchild of Dan Nettles performs two sets from his catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.” Ramsey Hall

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

FACULTY ARTIST SERIES Featuring horn musicians Jean MartinWilliams and James Naigus. UGA Tate Student Center

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

REED WINCKLER Atlanta-based acoustic singer-songwriter embracing earnest, droll lyrics and DIY style.

Wednesday 28

Athentic Brewing Co.

7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Second and fourth Wednesdays. Porterhouse Grill

7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com

AURELIA STRING QUARTET

CONCERT Classical music winter concert featuring works by Haydn and Schubert.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $42–64. pac.uga.edu

FRIGG Masters of the Finnish folk tradition fusing Nordic folk and American bluegrass

Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture

7:30 p.m. $25–37. www.winterville center.com

TATTOO YOU The Rolling Stones tribute band. The Root

10 p.m. FREE! www.therootathens. com

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

Monday 26

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

PENNY LOAFER Local “postcollege rock” band delivering grunge-tinged pop with sweet yet sometimes vicious compositions. MAX’S FABLE Atlanta band playing in support of its upcoming release this February.

WOMEN IN STEM Indie girl-power rock/pop trio.

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

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

CHAMBER WINDS University of Georgia wind ensemble performs.

Down the Line

1/29 Pecos & the Rooftops (Georgia Theatre)

1/29 Terraplane Blue (Athentic Brewing Co.)

1/29 Hardbyte, Karezza, Bernard Aspect (40 Watt Club)

1/29 Hayride, Vicious Devil (Nowhere Bar)

1/29 Thursday Scholarship Series: Concerto Competition Winners (Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall)

1/29 Big Band Athens (Hendershot’s)

1/29 Ashes to Omens, Added Color, Tattoo Logic (Nowhere Bar) 1/29 Ceremony of Masters (The World Famous)

1/30 Steve Dyer and the Jukebox Country Band (VFW Post 2872) 1/30 Jack Wharff Band (40 Watt Club)

1/30 Guest Artist Recital (Ramsey Hall)

1/30 The Touch, Gunga, The Falling Spikes (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 1/30 The Venus Kings (Nowhere Bar) f

Frigg will play at the Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall on Saturday, Jan. 24.

MAREK SABOGAL

bulletin board & classifieds

BULLETIN BOARD: Listings from nonprofits, community resources and free opportunities.

CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds

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

MUSIC (Services) Advertise your musical service in the Flagpole Classifieds! Call 706-549-0301 to place your ad!

SERVICES (Home & Garden) Brrr… winter is here! A perfect time to tackle those invasive plants! Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible and native gardens for your school, home or business! For more info call/text 706-395-5321.

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

Arts

AAAC QUARTERLY GRANT (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council offers $500 grants to visual and performing artists. www.athensarts. org/support

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM (Lyndon House Arts Center) The AIR Program provides participants with a workspace, access and a stipend. www.accgov.com/lyndon house

ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a free 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 (ACCGov) Athens Downtown Development Authority, Morton Theatre Corporation and ACCGov invite professional artists to submit qualifications for consideration for a mural in the Morton Theatre lobby. Deadline Feb. 27, 5 p.m. www.accgov.com/11628/Callfor-Public-Art-Morton-Theatre

CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls) Seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. careywelsh20@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CALL FOR VENDORS (Asian Lunar Festival) Now accepting applications for local artists, performers, food vendors, community organizations and more for the first annual Athens Asian Lunar Festival. Event held Feb. 14-15. www.taste_asia_ street@outlook.com

SEEKING VENDORS (R.I.C.E. Georgia) Applications for exhibitors, vendors and performers now open for Community Forestry and Cultural Festival Arbor Day Celebration. Event held Saturday, Feb. 21. Volunteer opportunities also available. www.rice-georgia.org, joffewright@gmail.com

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. Feb. class held on the second Wednesday. Registration required. www.drawathens. org

OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for photography, ceramics and more. www. accgov.com/7350/Open-StudioMembership

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

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

VANYA AND SONIA AND MASHA AND SPIKE (Town & Gown) Open auditions for an adult comedy. Feb. 9–10. Performances held Apr. 10–19. www.townandgownplayers. org

Classes

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

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

CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

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

CLASSES, HIKES & PADDLES

(Watson Mill State Park, Comer) The park offers a variety of events including “Cocoa & Trivia” and “Introduction to iNaturalist & Mer-

lin,” morning and evening kayak sessions, firebuilding classes, various educational hikes including “A Bridge to the Past” and more. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge

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). Classes resume Jan. 11. $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

ENERGY PLAN STUDY GROUP CLASSES (Covenant Presbyterian Church) The Southern Sustainability Institute hosts a four week participatory study group series on ACC’s Clean and Renewable Energy Plan. Wednesdays through Jan. 28. 11:30 a.m. Registration required. info@sosuin.org

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

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

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

SQUARE DANCE CLASSES (Classic City Dance Club) Classes begin

Thursday, Feb. 12. No partner needed. $5 per class. All ages and skill levels. athsquaredance@ outlook.com

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

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT EXCHANGE (Silver Lace) Open registration for consideration for free mobility and daily living medical items. Donations also accepted. www.silver laceinc.org, info@silverlace.org

MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUN-

TEERS (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 Area Arts Council) The council is accepting applications from individuals who can commit to monthly meetings and have a passion for the arts. www.athensarts.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 singleserving, non-perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and

court hearings. To arrange a dropoff 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 SEASONAL POLL WORKERS (ACCGov) ACCGov Elections Department is hiring seasonal poll workers for the 2026 election cycle. Pay ranges from $15.60–$17.94 per hour. Training and specific availability required. Accepting applications through Feb. 27. www. accgov.com/jobs

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

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) Volunteers needed for community food distribution events including weekly food kitchen, meal deliveries and more. Also accepting donations of canned and dry goods. wwwmarigold collectivewinterville.com

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

SEEING VOLUNTEERS (Morton Theatre) Volunteers needed for upcoming events. Board Member opportunities also available. www. mortontheatre.com/volunteer

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

SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (St. Mary’s Home Health & Hospice) Seeking volunteers to provide companionship or to help with simple tasks for those in hospice care. Training provided. 706-389-2273

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

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

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

Kidstuff

HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Nature centered programs for groups 5–7 and 8–12 years of age. Feb.6, various times. Registration required. www. accgov.com/myrec

KIDS YOGA (Oconee Library) Free yoga classes led by certified yoga instructor. Tuesdays, 5 p.m. Registration required. www.athenslibrary. org/events

POSTER CONTEST (Athens, GA)

Georgia DNR, The State Botanical Garden of Georgia and TERN encourage K-5 students to submit works to the 36th annual Give Wildlife a Chance Poster Contest. Part of the “Kids for Conservation” initiative, the 2026 theme is “Welcome to the Wild World, Little Ones!”

Deadline is Mar. 6. www.georgia wildlife.com/PosterContest

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

Word on the Street

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

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

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

MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (Nuçi’s Space) Direct connections to mental healthcare 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. Available 24 hours. Located at ACC Animals Services, Memorial Park Dog Park and Southeast Clarke Park. Instructions provided at each location.

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

SEEKING VENDORS (Marigold Farmers Market) The Marigold Farmers Market is now accepting applications for the 2026 season. www.marigoldcollectivewinterville. com

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

VIC CHESNUTT SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARDS (Athens, GA) Classic City Rotary is now accepting nominations. Songs must have a public release date during 2025, and songwriters must reside in Athens-Clarke County or a contiguous county. All genres welcome. Winner receives $1,500 cash prize, recording time from Amplify at Nuçi’s Space, a photo shoot with Jason Thrasher and a Team Clermont promotional package. Finalists receive $250 cash prizes. Deadline Mar. 1. www.vicchesnutt award.com

VOTER REGISTRATION

RESOURCES (ACC Library Atrium)

Economic Justice Coalition community volunteers assist Georgia residents with registration, confirm prior registration and update voter registration information as needed. www.economicjusticecoalition. org f

calendar picks arts & culture

ART | THU, JAN. 22

Opening Receptions

Lyndon House Arts Center • 5:30 p.m. • FREE! The first of three exhibitions opening this January at LHAC is “Creative Tracks: Artwork from Inside the Athens- Clarke County Jail,” which will be on display in the Ronnie Lukasiewicz Gallery. Creative Tracks is the ACC Jail’s studio art program, through which residents participate in a variety of classes—including observational botanical drawings, zine-making, modelmaking and more—led by artist, educator and business owner Kristen Bach while also gaining the skills and resources needed to transition back into the community. In the Lounge Gallery will be Kate Kaiser’s “hold still, please,” a collection of abstract landscapes that depict shifting forms like skies and clouds that reflect on memory, transformation and what is left behind. Finally, Colombia-born, Athens-based artist Sebastian Granados’ “En mi mente” will be in the North Gallery, featuring charcoal and wax figurative contour drawings that reflect his emotions and experiences. Both Kaiser and Granados will give artist talks to accompany their exhibitions on Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m. All three exhibitions will be on display through Mar. 21. [MB]

LITERATURE | THU, JAN. 22

Twin Tides Book Launch

ATHICA • 6 p.m. • FREE!

Hien Nguyen’s debut novel, Twin Tides, follows long-lost twin sisters—one an heiress and influencer in LA, and the other a freshman and academic scammer at Georgetown University—who are brought together when they learn of their mother’s mysterious death in Minnesota. Nguyen is a speculative fiction writer from the Midwest whose material explores Vietnamese ghosts, monsters and mythology. By day she works as a social science researcher, but in her free time she’s managed to earn a Pushcart Prize nomination and have work published in All Worlds Wayfarer, Centaur Lit and more. At this launch event for Twin Tides, she will be joined by Joseph Wei, an assistant professor in UGA’s English department, for a conversation about writing Asian American literature for young adults, diasporic ghosts and her experience as a debut novelist. [MB]

MUSIC | THU, JAN. 22

Vic Chesnutt Awards Kickoff Event

Hendershot’s • 7:30 p.m. • FREE!

Ahead of the 10th annual Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards, Classic City Rotary is hosting a kickoff show featuring a lineup of local artists who embody the creativity and honesty that define Athens’ musical spirit. These include indie pop singer- songwriter Lane Marie, pop-punk influenced musician Goodie, indie/shoegaze band Little Mae, and Charlie and Nancy Hartness of old- time string band Hawk Proof Rooster. Online nominations for the award, which is named in honor of the late, internationally renowned Athens songwriting giant Vic Chesnutt, can be cast through Mar. 1 for songs of any genre that were released physically, on streaming platforms

or on Youtube, Facebook or the artist’s website in 2025. A panel of judges will review the nominations and select five finalists, with the winner to be announced at a showcase held on Apr. 23. [Mary Beth Bryan]

EVENT | JAN. 24–25

Open for Snow

Java Joy • Times Vary • FREE! In 2024, Java Joy’s Watkinsville location had its grand opening, setting up shop across from the Playground of Possibilities at 189 VFW Drive. Java Joy is a project of Extra Special People, Inc. that began in 2016, spurred on by the statistic that 87% of adults with disabilities who are willing and able to work are unemployed. Java Joy hires these individuals to serve as “Joyristas” who not only sell coffee, but also create

a meaningful connection and bridge the gap of understanding between adults with disabilities and their communities. Java Joy is returning after a holiday break with its “Open for Snow” event, featuring a curated menu from local chef Mimi Maumus that includes muffins, veggies and hummus, homemade sodas and more, all made with clean, healthy ingredients. The event will be held Jan. 24 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and Jan. 25 from 1–3 p.m. While it may be rare for Athens to get real snow, Java Joy will make up for it with a snow machine. [MB]

FILM | MON, JAN. 26

Naqoyqatsi

Ciné • 7:30 p.m. • $11, $9 (w/ UGA ID), $8 (Ciné members)

Released in 2002, Naqoyqatsi is a nonnarrative film inspired by society’s shift to a digitized world, named after the Hopi word for “life of war” or “civilized violence.” The film is structured into three movements made up of visual montages of archival and digitally manipulated footage. The movements progress toward a world that language can no longer describe that is driven to war as a result of technology’s domination. The film is scored by Philip Glass and features cellist Yo-Yo Ma, whom the UGA Performing Arts Center will also host for a sold-out show on Feb. 1 in celebration of its 30th anniversary. Following the screening of Naqoyqatsi, UGA Assistant Professor of Cello James Kim, Assistant Professor of Music and Film Scoring Certificate Director Cristina “Trinity” Vélez- Justo and PAC Director of Marketing and Communications Mark Mobley will hold a panel discussion. [MB] f

event calendar

Tuesday 20

ART: Tuesday Tour (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Join a docent led tour of the State Botanical Garden’s Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum. Every Tuesday, 2 p.m. $5. botgarden.uga.edu

ART: Craft & Chat (Memorial Park) Join others from the community and learn how to make paper beads. 10 a.m. $3 (resident), $5 (non-resident). www.accgovga. myrec.com

CLASSES: Finding Employment Online (ACC Library) This class will show you where to go online to find jobs and how to spruce up your resume. 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: Take This! Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) The troupe will perform “Are You Smarter Than A Comedian” with shout-outs to classic game shows. 7 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com

COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreand bar.com

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

GAMES: Bookish Bingo (ACC Library) Join the Friends of the Library to play bingo and win prizes with all proceeds benefiting the ACC Library. 6:30 p.m. $5–10. www.instagram.com/athensfol

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

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge

with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco

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

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco

LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

LECTURES & LIT: Book Launch (Barnes & Noble) Author Alison Lyn Miller will discuss her book Rough House with wrestler Hunter James and his father Billy Ray Noblett. 6 p.m. www.barnesandnoble.com

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

THEATER: Hadestown (The Classic Center) Award-winning musical that intertwines two Greek mythological tales to journey to the underworld and back. Jan. 20–21, 7:30 p.m. $33–126. www.classiccenter.com

Wednesday 21

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: Career Reset (ACC Library) A presentation on “How to Become Discoverable to Employers

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.

AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) New works by artist and muralist Marisa Mustard are on view through January.

ATHICA@Ciné Gallery (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Bird’s Eye View” presents abstracted landscapes by Lybi Cucurullo that combine ink on plexiglass with oil-painted topographies inspired by bird murmurations. Through Feb. 25. ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) “Beverly’s Athens” is a concurrent exhibition with the Georgia Museum of Art featuring works by Beverly Buchanan. The exhibition includes sculptures, drawings, photographs, print multiples, autobiographical ephemera and research materials alongside examples of her well-known “shacks.” On view through Mar. 21.

ARTS + ATHLETICS (130 The Plaza) Atlanta artist Paige Adair’s exhibition “The Swan’s Chamber and Other Enchanted Portals” features paintings, printmaking and works on paper. On view by appointment only through Mar. 21.

COMMUNITY (260 W. Washington St.) Paintings and collages by Don Chambers are on display through January.

GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) Drawing on Ada Limón’s poem

“In Praise of Mystery,” “We, Too, Are Made of Wonders” explores humanity’s fascination with the cosmos through poetry, science and visual art from the museum’s collection. On view Jan. 24–June 28. Opening reception Jan. 24, 5–7 p.m. Gallery Talk by Dr. Cassandra Hall Feb. 5, 5:15 p.m. • “Beverly’s Athens” is a concurrent exhibition with the Georgia Museum of Art featuring works by Beverly Buchanan. The exhibition includes sculptures,

in Today’s AI Digital Hiring System.” Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! athenslibrary.libcal.com/ event/16034794

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

EVENTS: Winter Tiki Night (Live Wire) Enjoy a tiki-themed hangout with a cold weather cocktail menu. Wednesdays, 6–10 p.m. www. livewireathens.com

FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1970 sci-fi comedy film I Killed Einstein, Gentleman. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) 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 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

KIDSTUFF: Lego Mania! (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

THEATER: Hadestown (The Classic Center) Award-winning musical that intertwines two Greek mythological tales to journey to the underworld and back. Jan. 20–21, 7:30 p.m. $33–126. www.classiccenter.com

Thursday 22

ART: Opening Reception (Lyndon House Arts Center) The exhibitions “Creative Tracks: Artwork from Inside the Athens-Clarke County Jail,” Kate Kaiser’s “hold still, please” and Sebastian Granados’ “En mi mente” will be on view. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse

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

EVENTS: Shadow Puppet Presentation and Workshop (Merit Music Academy) Join the Greater Athens Puppetry Club for a presentation on the history and current use of shadow puppetry, followed by a materials-provided creative workshop. 8 p.m. FREE! www.merit musicacademy.com

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

GAMES: Adult TTRPG (Bogart Library) All skill levels can join for Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role playing games. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Butt Hutt) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

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

KIDSTUFF: Lil Master Chef (Howard Park & Community Center) Create snacks while having fun in the kitchen, this month making

drawings, photographs, print multiples, autobiographical ephemera and research materials alongside examples of her well-known “shacks.” Through June 28. • asinnajaq’s “Three Thousand” combines archival videos from the National Film Board of Canada with animations, soundscapes and contemporary video footage. Through June 28. • “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.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) In the Lobby Case, Katie Kameen recontextualizes plastic pieces to create new forms in her exhibition “Plastic Tense.” Through Jan. 24. • Also in the Lobby Case, Jeff Campana’s “Assemblage Vessels” features modular ceramic vessels produced using computer-designed molds and CNC milling. Through Feb. 21. • 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. • 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 Nancy Lukasiewicz Gallery, a two-person exhibition features the abstract sculptural paintings of Sebastian Garcia Huidobro alongside the brutalist architecture-inspired sculptures of Rachel Lea Seburn. Through Jan. 24. • In the Ronnie Lukasiewicz Gallery, “Creative Tracks: Artwork from Inside the Athens-Clarke County Jail” presents art created by participants in the Creative Tracks studio art program taught by Kristen Bach at the ACC Jail. On view Jan. 22–Mar. 21. Opening reception Jan. 22, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • In the Lounge Gallery, “hold still, please” features abstract landscape paintings by Kate Kaiser, exploring memory, space and quiet presence through oil on wood panels. On view Jan. 22–Mar. 21. Artist reception Jan. 22, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Artist talk Feb. 26, 5:30 p.m.

grilled cheese and tomato soup. Ages 2–5. 10:30 a.m. $3 (ACC residents), $4.50 (non-residents). www.accgovga.myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: LEGO Builder’s Challenge (Oconee County Library) Drop in to complete challenges and earn prizes. Ages 5–12. Fourth Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

KIDSTUFF: Chapter Chat (Bogart Library) This month’s chat will feature The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis with quizzes, trivia, snacks and more. Ages 8–12. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart

KIDSTUFF: Scripts & Chips (OCAF) Disappear into character in a relaxed environment reading from scripts and enjoying snacks. Ages 10 & up. Fourth Thursdays, 4:30 p.m. $10 (members), $15 (nonmembers). www.ocaf.com

LECTURES & LIT: Book Launch (ATHICA) Author Hien Nguyen will discuss writing Asian American literature for young adults and her debut book Twin Tides with UGA Professor Joseph Wei. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athica.org

LECTURES & LIT: Athens Science Café (Little Kings Shuffle Club) Join the Coalition of Athens Scientists for a discussion and Q&A with researchers in Athens who have been impacted by funding cuts. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ athenssciencecafe

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

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

THEATER: First Semester: A Musical (The Winterville Auditorium) A new musical comedy by Wyn Alyse Thomas explores identity, dating, friendship and mental health. Jan.

22–23, 7 p.m. $12. www.winterville center.com

Friday 23

EVENTS: Adult Trips (Howard Park & Community Center) Leisure Services offers roundtrip travel to Atlanta for shopping at Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market. 9 a.m.–6 p.m. $15 (ACC resident), $22.50 (non-resident). www. accgov.com/myrec

EVENTS: BINGO for the Arts (Festival Hall) This fundraiser features BINGO, food trucks, a cash bar and live music. 5:30–9:30 p.m. $50. www.festivalhallga.com

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

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

KIDSTUFF: Teen Jam Night (Merit Music Academy) Receive guidance from local instructors, jam out and meet other beginner musicians. Registration required. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.meritmusicacademy. com

LECTURES & LIT: Booker Prize Finalist Katie Kitamura (UGA Chapel) Author Katie Kitamura will discuss her novel Audition with Chigozie Obioma, followed by a Q&A and book signing. 6 p.m. FREE! english.uga.edu

SPORTS: UGA Hockey vs. Niagara (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 3 p.m. $10–35. www.classiccenter. com

SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Biloxi Breakers (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 8 p.m. $28–50. www.classiccenter.com

THEATER: First Semester: A Musical (The Winterville Auditorium) A new musical comedy by Wyn Alyse Thomas explores identity, dating,

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) In the Main Gallery, “A Way Among Ways” is curated by Beth Malone and features artists whose work explores labor, material and improvisation. On view through Mar. 7. • In the Members Gallery, “This Beautiful Tangle” includes paintings and illustrations by Jeffrey Whittle alongside prints and paper works by Melissa Harshman. On view through Mar. 7.

STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave.) Works by artist Judy Hammond are on view, featuring paintings in oil, acrylic and pastel. Through Mar. 1.

STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Steffen Thomas Through the Eyes of Young Adults” is on display in the Educational Gallery. Final date TBA.

TINYATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Works by textile artist Laurel Rudolph on view through Jan. 29.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Captain Planet: The Power Is Yours” explores the origins and impact of the TV series. Through May. • “Sustained Excellence: A History of UGA Swim & Dive” explores the program’s history through photographs and artifacts. Through May.

WINTERVILLE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER (371 N. Church St., Winterville) Six new exhibitions will run through Mar. 24. Gallery 1 features plein air works by the Athens Area Plein Air Artists depicting the Winterville Trestle and local scenes. Gallery 2 features modern quilted wall pieces by Sarah Hubbard and complex sculptures by Kelly King. The Narrow Gallery features resin works by local author and artist Anita Eberhart Shaw. The Foyer Gallery features paintings by Sherre Watwood. The Garden Gallery features fusedglass works by Babs Kall.

friendship and mental health. Jan. 22–23, 7 p.m. $12. www.winterville center.com

Saturday 24

ART: Opening Reception (Georgia Museum of Art) The exhibition “We, Too, Are Made of Wonders” will be on view with refreshments, tarot readings, a poetry station and more. Registration required. 5–7 p.m. $15. www.georgiamuseum.org

CLASSES: Free Yoga Weekend (Fuel Hot Yoga) Enjoy a variety of free yoga classes, giveaways and more. Registration required. Jan. 24, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Jan. 25, 8 a.m–6 p.m. FREE! www.fuelhotyoga.com

COMEDY: Rosencrantz & Guildenstern are FINE (Flying Squid Comedy) An improv comedy show within an improv comedy show starring Mike Bryson and Matt House. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: Community Open House (Georgia Museum of Art) A celebration of spring exhibitions that includes family day activities, a food truck, door prizes, mini astrology readings, a poetry writing station, an artist talk and more. Registration required. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.georgiamuseum.org

EVENTS: Open for Snow (189 VFW Drive, Watkinsville) The Java Joy Snack Stand will feature new menu items from local chef Mimi Maumus and a snow machine. Jan. 24, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Jan. 25, 1–3 p.m. www.javajoy.org

EVENTS: Open House (Athens Montessori School) Visit classrooms, meet educators and learn about available programs. 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens montessori.com

KIDSTUFF: Chess Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in for open chess play for all skill levels. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

OUTDOORS: Classic City Marathon (The Classic Center) The marathon, half-marathon and marathon relay will begin at the same time downtown and wrap up with post-race festivities at the Classic Center. 7:30 a.m. www.classiccitymarathon.com

SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Biloxi Breakers (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $28–50. www.classiccenter.com

Sunday 25

CLASSES: Free Yoga Weekend (Fuel Hot Yoga) Enjoy a variety of free yoga classes, giveaways and more. Registration required. Jan. 24, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Jan. 25, 8 a.m–6 p.m. FREE! www.fuelhotyoga.com

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

COMEDY: Funny Femmes (The Globe) An all-femme showcase featuring comedians from Athens and Atlanta. Fourth Sundays, 9 p.m. $10. www.globetavern.com

EVENTS: Open for Snow (189 VFW Drive, Watkinsville) The Java Joy Snack Stand will feature new menu items from local chef Mimi Maumus and a snow machine. Jan. 24, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Jan. 25, 1–3 p.m. www.javajoy.org

EVENTS: Wake-n-Bake Off (Terrapin Beer Co.) This cooking and baking competition requires Terrapin’s Wake-n-Bake Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout as an ingredient. 4 p.m. $25. www.terrapinbeer.com

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe)

Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens

PERFORMANCE: Drag Brunch (Athentic Brewing Co.) A high tea themed afternoon of drag entertainment. 12 p.m. $10 (show only). www.athenticbrewing.com

SPORTS: UGA Women’s Hockey vs. Auburn University (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 10 a.m. & 4 p.m. $10–35. www.classiccenter. com

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

LECTURES & LIT: Drafts and Drafts (Athentic Brewing Co.) A monthly night for writers to workshop pieces,

SPORTS: UGA Hockey vs. Niagara (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 1 p.m. $10–35. www.classiccenter. com

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

Monday 26

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

FILM: Naqoyqatsi (Ciné) Screening of the 2002 wordless documentary scored by Philip Glass and featuring cellist Yo-Yo Ma. 7:30 p.m. $11. pac.uga.edu

GAMES: Chess and Community (ACC Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. Mondays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

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: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

GAMES: Lord of the Rings Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your Lord of the Rings trivia knowledge. 7–9 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

a bouncy wonderland with big jumps and soft landings. Ages 5 & under. 10 a.m. FREE! www. accgovga.myrec.com

KIDSTUFF: Slime-Mania (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Harli to learn how to make slime. 4 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Teen Nights (Lay Park Community Center) Join other teens at the Creative Hub for glowin-the dark hide and seek, karaoke and snacks. 6 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/myrec

MEETINGS: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss The Black Dahlia by James Elroy with the group. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “Growing Older” with local people sharing real life stories. 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $10. www. rabbitbox.org

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

Wednesday 28

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

run writing exercises and games, and get important feedback. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

Tuesday 27

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: Strengthening Your Password Skills (ACC Library) Learn about creating passwords, managing them safely and more. 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

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

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

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco

GAMES: 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: Jumping Gym (Howard Park & Community Center) Explore

ART: Fellow Spotlight Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) Curator Kelsey Siegert will give a talk about her research and work on sculptures. Registration required. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

EVENTS: Senior Chili Social & Cook-Off (Howard Park & Community Center) Bring your chili for a tasting competition and meet other seniors. 12 p.m. $4 (resident), $6 (non-resident). www.accgovga. myrec.com

EVENTS: Winter Tiki Night (Live Wire) Enjoy a tiki-themed hangout with a cold weather cocktail menu. Wednesdays, 6–10 p.m. www.live wireathens.com

FILM: Holy Trinity (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 2019 debut film followed by a virtual Q&A with director and artist Glamhag. Ages 21 & up. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com

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

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) 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 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

KIDSTUFF: Ready, Set, Grow (Heard Park & 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: Lego Mania! (Bogart Library) Drop in to free build and create. All ages. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart f

Join us on Mondays & Wednesdays February 23-May 13. Ages 3-8 welcome.

SPRING BREAK CAMP

April 6th - 10th. • For ages 4 - 13

SUMMER CAMP

Week 1: May 25th - 29th • Week 2: June 1st - 5th

Week 3: June 15th - 19th • Week 4: June 22nd - 26th

Week 5: July 6th - 10th

An Adventure Camp in the forest located at the 50-acre Piedmont Preserve, off of Chase Street in Athens.

“Soaring” by Jeannette Alexander Judson is part of the Georgia Museum of Art exhibition “Wonders.” An opening reception will be held on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 5–7 p.m.

Rock the Ark

CONCERT BENEFITS EVICTION PREVENTION PROGRAMS

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

The Ark is an Athens nonprofit that provides emergency services to lowincome workers such as financial assistance with rent, utilities, medication and food, in addition to financial education programs and lending services. One of its biggest fundraisers that directly contributes to its eviction prevention programs is Rock the Ark, and this year’s concert will be held on Saturday, Jan. 24 at Georgia Theatre with headliner Wim Tapley & The Cannons and opener Karma Kat.

“There are a ton of homeless nonprofits that do great work here, but I think The Ark is unique in the sense of trying to prevent that homelessness cycle. Once somebody goes through with an eviction, it’s really hard to fall out of that cycle, and it’s easy to slip into homelessness.”

“The neighbors that we’re assisting are people that work in our hospitals, that work in our restaurants, that work in our local plants. So they’re neighbors just like you or I, and we’re kind of the safety net to ensure that those households remain stable. There are a lot of children that we serve that are in the home, so it is very difficult to see it firsthand,” says Lucy Hudgens, director at The Ark.

Songwriter Wim Tapley began his music career in Athens as a UGA student, and he’s since grown a strong local following that’s taken him on national tours. His sound is described as “firmly rooted in Americana and dashed with glamorous pop sensibilities, the swinging depths of neo- soul and a sprinkling of riotous horns.” Although the four-piece band Karma Kat only emerged from the local scene in 2023, it has quickly become known for its polished live shows that blend rock and jazz in a way that feels both classic and fresh.

The benefit concert has always prioritized booking Athens bands with strong roots in the community, explains The Ark program coordinator Ashley Stewart, and the nonprofit views supporting and connecting with local music as the heart of Athens. In fact, there’s a strong connection between the music scene and preventing evictions.

“They really go hand-in-hand because the music scene is so prominent because of the college students, but we also have a housing crisis because of students as well, unfortunately. Being able to use the music scene to prevent evictions is so important to us,” says Stewart.

From its inception in 1989 to 2024, The Ark has provided $3,096,717 in emergency financial assistance to more than 44,972 individuals. Last year the nonprofit was able to serve 445 households and prevent 271 evictions and 154 utility disconnections in the community. Stewart says that the majority of the nonprofit’s funds are allocated for rental assistance.

“There are so many factors that can happen to someone where they go from floating to sinking quickly,” says Stewart.

“Once a family becomes evicted, it’s nearly impossible to become stable again, and it’s very traumatic. So that’s why our services are so important. Just to make sure that these households aren’t falling through the cracks and becoming homeless. You wouldn’t necessarily know that a family is struggling, or a family’s on the brink, or a family has been served an eviction notice.”

As the nation continues facing a housing crisis and costs of living increase, The Ark anticipates the number of people in need this year to grow. Hudgens says that last year’s requests for assistance increased by about 40%, and the expectation is for things to get worse. On the bright side, The Ark has not been impacted by federal budget cuts due to the nature of its funding, but that does mean it relies on continued community support.

Hudgens explains that The Ark was created by eight congregations in town that wanted to pool their resources together to have a centralized location to provide aid. Now its support base has grown to about 30 congregations that provide a steady source for The Ark’s operations.

Proceeds from Rock the Ark ticket sales will benefit the nonprofit’s mission, with T- shirts and stickers also for sale in advance and at the show. General admission is $34.96, and VIP tickets for $70.81 provide access to a private premium viewing section with a VIP-only bar, first- come seating and exclusive merch goodies. For more information, visit athensark.org/rocktheark. f

WHO: Wim Tapley & The Cannons, Karma Kat

WHEN: Saturday, Jan 24, 5:45 p .m . (doors)

WHERE: Georgia Theatre HOW MUCH: $34 96–$70 81

good growing

2026 Gardening Trends

PREDICTIONS OF THIS YEAR’S FLORA FADS

By Erin France editorial@flagpole.com

I scoured the non-paywalled corners of the internet to find the plant and gardening trends of 2026. Some of them I agree with, others sound like a reach. Most of the predictions I read can be filed under “obvious,” perhaps because the writer didn’t want to go out on a limb and make an actual prediction. I’m more of the big- swing batter; when I connect, it’s out of the park—but I often whiff. That said, here’s my predictions for this year’s gardening trends:

TEA GARDENS: I’m already having conversations with strangers about switching cups of joe for cups of tea. I suspect these types of conversations will have entrepreneurs and gardeners alike looking for room to grow alternatives. Unlike the tropical coffee bean, camellia sinensis (the plant harvested for caffeinated tea leaves) does grow well in America and the Southeast. With coffee prices percolating ever higher, I suspect some enterprising growers will ramp up tea plant cuttings and start advertising “Grow your own tea!” in the fall. Though herbal tea gardens have been popular in the past, I’m expecting a rising tide of interest in both caffeinated and uncaffeinated homegrown teas. My 2026 prediction: Your neighbor with all the zucchini plants will offer you a backyard grown and self-blended tea.

read about rewilding, I’m expecting a lot of garden experts to argue about “the best” or “easiest” or “most natural” way to rewild your yard. I expect all the conflicting advice could lead some interested beginning gardeners to stop before they get started. My 2026 prediction: Someone you’re 90% sure doesn’t do any yardwork will explain to you why and how you should practice rewilding this year.

NATIVE FRUITS GET MORE LOVE: Fruit tree growing has blossomed over the last several years with the focus on edible landscaping and permaculture. Martha Stewart and the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society believe

TINY PLANTS: The Guardian believes this year will be one of normally large plants microsized, stuffed inside and adored. I agree. There’s been a growing interest in patio and porch gardening for years now. Some plant breeding programs have focused specifically on smaller, neater, container-grown varieties. There’s even a patio-ready dwarf corn named “On Deck.” This year, the plants will somehow be even smaller, cuter and, while not bred for the indoors, will be proudly displayed there. My 2026 prediction: Your social media feed will feature toy tomatoes, petite peppers and pygmy eggplants artfully photographed and treasured on kitchen counters and coffee tables.

“REWILDING” ARGUMENTS: Almost every list I read had “rewilding” as a 2026 trend. Almost every list seemed to define the act of rewilding differently. For some, it seemed to be extending No Mow May to most of the year. For others, it was about planting natives and adding habitats for critters. Don’t get me wrong: I’m a firm believer in doing what you can, when you can, with the resources you have to diversify the land around you in plants and animals. But based on these lists, and the book I

this year we’ll see increased interest in and plantings of fruit trees. I think native fruits will have a turn in the spotlight this year—persimmons, serviceberries and most especially, the pawpaw. I planted my pawpaws seven years ago (still no fruit), but I find myself having more and more conversations about these plants. I’d love for 2026 to be the year of the pawpaw. Can we go from scenes of customers chasing ugly, useless Starbucks bear cups to videos of harvesters elbowing each other to grab pawpaws at a U-Pick Farm? Probably not, but a girl can dream. My 2026 prediction: You’ll find a fun, wacky native fruit to purchase at your local farmer’s market. Go ahead and spend the money to taste something completely new!

AI GARDENING FLOPS: The danger of asking a Large Language Model for gardening advice is because there’s so much bad gardening information for the AI to scrape from the internet and repeat. When the advice isn’t outright incorrect, it might not be good advice for a particular soil type or climate. While I expect AI to be added to everything from rain barrels to weather meters to garden planning apps, it will be of little use without specific, in-depth context of your garden and micro- climate. My 2026 prediction: Your technophile friend with a yard will complain about the AI-enabled sprinkler watering during a rainstorm. f

Pawpaw

Wim Tapley & The Cannons

by Margie E. Burke

by Margie E. Burke

The Weekly Crossword