Moment of Reflection for Sonderlust ’s 10 Year Anniversary p. 11
Cannon Rogers released Hydroponic Southern Gothic, a four-song EP inspired by Southern Gothic literature, Steve Earle’s Transcendental Blues and the increasingly unstable state of our world. For the full story, see “Flagpole Premieres: Cannon Rogers” online at flagpole.com.
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 Gordon Lamb
CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser
CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe
EDITORIAL & OFFICE ASSISTANT Mary Beth Bryan
EDITORIAL INTERNS Jasmine Milbourne, Lily Thomas
PHOTOGRAPHERS CJ Bartunek, Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel
SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons
online exclusive
Seth Hendershot announced earlier this month that Hendershot’s—the coffeeshop, bar and music venue on Prince Avenue— will be closing at the end of the month, but fortunes have changed with a recent announcement that the business has been bought by locals who wish to preserve the iconic space.
See “Hendershot’s Will Stay Open Under New Owners” at flagpole.com.
city dope
Vision Zero
A PLAN TO END TRAFFIC DEATHS AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued and Lily Thomas news@flagpole.com
The Athens- Clarke County Commission is poised to approve a street safety plan that identifies dangerous corridors and provides a menu of options for traffic engineers to make those roads safer.
The commission placed the Vision Zero Safety Action Plan on the consent agenda for its Apr. 6 voting meeting, making it part of a package of noncontroversial items that are passed with one vote, without discussion.
Commissioner Carol Myers gave a passionate defense of bike lanes, noting that drivers have killed 73 people in Athens since 2019. The plan will provide the framework for obtaining federal grants, with an upcoming TSPLOST referendum providing the required 20% local match, she said.
“I hope we can stop blaming the money spent on bike safety and lanes on not solving all the many social challenges in Athens,” Myers said. “It’s something I hear on the campaign trail, and the record needs to be corrected. I don’t believe any money from the general fund has been spent on bike infrastructure since I joined the commission.” Instead, funding has come from sales tax programs and federal grants that must be spent on transportation, not other needs like assistance for the homeless or water and sewer lines, she said.
Myers referenced Kuk Chokhal, a 37- year-old Athens man who was struck and killed while riding an ebike on Olympic Drive. The driver, Terrence White, 45, has been charged with DUI, homicide by vehicle, following too closely and serious injury by vehicle. Myers said Chokhal was a married father of a 4- year-old who was coming home from his job as a delivery driver at Panda Express.
“It probably cost him $300–$400 to buy that ebike, which is less than the cost of a car for a month,” Myers said. “We talk about
affordable housing all the time, but we need to acknowledge the need for affordable transportation and making it safe, whether it’s walking, biking or taking transit.”
Myers did not mention her by name, but Commissioner Ovita Thornton responded, “I think I have this stereotype that I don’t like bikes. It’s not that at all. When I look at my district, you can’t walk down the street” because there are no sidewalks.
Thornton asserted that ACC spends more on bike paths and trails than “infrastructure,” although bike trails and paths are infrastructure.
Commissioner Allison Wright recalled several incidents where she, her husband and their son were hit, both while driving and biking. “It can turn your life upside down,” she said.
Wright called for stricter enforcement against distracted driving. “We’ve got to punish them, we’ve got to fine them, we’ve got to let people know to pay attention when you’re driving a car,” she said.
the issue, the commission has a long history of voting down individual biking and walking projects when drivers line up at the City Hall podium to complain about traffic.
Density is a similarly contentious issue, and several commissioners want to tweak the county’s updated 20- year future land use map to allow for less density in parts of their districts.
Link proposed downshifting about 130 parcels around downtown, Boulevard and Hawthorne Avenue. “Some of the concerns were how the very dense downtown land use meets the very traditional historic neighborhoods with much smaller scale construction,” Link said.
Wright requested similar changes for several parcels in Cobbham, and said that the absent Commissioner Mike Hamby would do the same for Five Points. In addition, Myers wanted to limit density for a parcel on Barnett Shoals Road at the end of College Station Road where neighbors have been beating back development proposals for decades.
“Usually, the categories that are being changed, there’s a big overlap in what kind of zoning is allowed, for the most part,” Myers said.
“ It’s gonna be one of my priorities as your next mayor to really look at airline services here.
White had six previous DUIs, according to Commissioner Melissa Link. “I don’t understand how anybody like that keeps a license,” she said.
“This Vision Zero plan is great, and we need to change our roads to make it harder for people to drive fast,” Link said. “I do believe we need to step up enforcement, because we’ve got the speed racers. I hear them on Prince Avenue every night… I see the [tire marks] on North Avenue.”
But anything perceived as inconveniencing drivers can be politically perilous. Even Myers, an avid cyclist, said she thought the current TSPLOST package leaned too heavily toward bikes. While paying lip service to
The future land use map is important because, while it is not technically zoning, it guides zoning decisions and provides the basis for approving or rejecting future rezoning requests. Planners drew the map, with input from residents, to accommodate the 30,000 people Athens is expected to add by 2045, primarily by increasing residential density along major corridors and “nodes” at major intersections. Single- family neighborhoods, however, remain largely untouched.
Link and Wright also proposed altering the descriptions of a couple of categories to include explicit references to greenspace.
Thornton also said she would be introducing changes in District 9, although hers had to do with infrastructure. “Where you’re doing greenspace and plazas, ours still involves water and sewer,” she said.
Once the commission approves the future land use map next month, the planning department will be bringing forward
text amendments regarding housing this summer, ACC Manager Bob Cowell said.
[Blake Aued]
Fisher Promises Athens Airline
Mayoral candidate Dexter Fisher held a town hall meeting at Athens-Ben Epps Airport on Mar. 19 outlining a proposal to bring commercial airline service back to Athens for the first time since 2014.
Fisher said he is the only candidate to make air service a central campaign issue. He framed the effort as key to long- term economic growth. Airline service and economic development are, he said, “vital to a community.”
Athens lost its last airline over a decade ago, when Congress pulled a $1.6 million Essential Air Service subsidy because only three people a day were flying commercial. The airport remains busy, though, with Ben Epps’ 77 hangars currently in use by private and military planes. Delta Airlines operates charter flights for University of Georgia sports teams, including football, basketball, gymnastics, baseball and soccer.
Fisher said multiple major carriers— Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines—are in discussions to renew commercial airline service in Athens. However, he emphasized that demonstrated community interest and demand are key to securing a deal.
According to Fisher—a former UGA administrator and currently the commissioner for District 5—UGA President Jere Morehead and Athens Technical College President Andrea Daniel both support the effort.
Fisher said that local travel patterns show a demand, stating that 1,600 people travel daily from Athens to Atlanta or Greenville, SC to fly, not including travelers from surrounding counties.
In the past 7 years, over $20 million in state and federal grants has been invested in Ben Epps. These funds supported renovations and runway expansion, making it capable of accommodating larger aircraft such as Boeing 737s. Fisher said this investment has already led to increases in corporate, private, military and charter air traffic. Unlike many municipal facilities,
the airport operates as an enterprise fund, meaning its operations are financially selfsustaining and do not rely on the county’s general fund.
“The market is solid for a regional airline… but they need a partnership with a community and an airport that will support them,” Athens Airport Authority member Elizabeth Higgins said.
Public feedback at the meeting highlighted frustrations with current travel logistics. An attendee affiliated with the UGA parent group SafeD Athens said parents of UGA students are affected, as many rely on Groome Transportation shuttles to and from Hartsfield- Jackson. Easier air access could encourage more frequent visits to Athens.
“It’s gonna be one of my priorities as your next mayor to really look at airline services here, and work with my colleagues, the commission, everyone in the community and the Airport Authority,” Fisher said.
Fisher also discussed economic development, naming key growth industries of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, research and development, health care sciences and craft brewing. He emphasized the importance of young people in Athens being prepared to take on job openings in these industries.
UGA’s upcoming medical and nursing schools are vital to address health- care staffing shortages in Georgia. Fisher argued that improved air travel could make Athens more attractive to prospective businesses and students.
“If we can get people good-paying jobs, get them trained, they can afford housing,” he said. “If they are homeless, get them help, and get them on their feet… Let’s invest in those types of things that we can invest in, that can make a difference in people’s lives, and that’s employment with good-paying jobs.”
Fisher also emphasized strengthening town-gown relations between UGA and Athens- Clarke County, saying, “We can’t do without each other.” Despite his 31 years working for UGA, Fisher asserted, “I am the mayor for Athens.”
For the smallest county in Georgia by land area, Fisher proposed smart growth
for Athens, warning that his opponents are proposing density without necessary infrastructure. District 9 Commissioner Ovita Thornton mentioned Oglethorpe County’s previous moratorium on zoning requests, saying, “Sometimes you gotta put your foot on the brakes a little bit to see where you are.”
Calling himself “an active mayor,” Fisher asserted his commitment to transparency and accountability, proposing a quarterly spending report to track how public funds are being used. “We got to change the culture a little bit. You know, it can’t be business as usual,” he said. “My first 100 days, they better get ready to work. We’re gonna hit the ground running.” [Lily Thomas]
Record Store Owner Arrested
James Raleigh Bryant, who owns the Watkinsville record store Rock Nobster, was arrested on sex trafficking and other charges Thursday, Mar. 19 in Augusta.
Various Augusta news outlets, citing reports from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, say that Bryant, 58, picked up a 15- year-old girl and brought her to a motel, where he paid her $2,000 for sex. He was charged with trafficking persons for the purpose of sexual servitude, aggravated child molestation, enticing a child for indecent purposes and statutory rape.
In December, an Oconee County high school student accused Bryant of rubbing her hip and buttocks at the record store. He was charged with misdemeanor sexual battery and released on $2,500 bond with the condition that he has no contact with the alleged victim.
Tim Denson, a candidate for Athens mayor, received two $1,000 campaign contributions from Rock Nobster in October. He told Flagpole he was not aware of the allegations and called them “disgusting.” His campaign will donate the $2,000 to nonprofits Divas Who Win, Project Safe and The Cottage.
Rock Nobster was also a major sponsor of the Wild Rumpus Halloween parade and festival. Organizer Timi Conley cut ties with Bryant after the December allegations surfaced. [BA] f
Q&A With Tim Denson
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
Tim Denson moved to Athens from Florida with his wife, Jenny, in 2004. A few years later, he became involved in politics with the Occupy Wall Street movement. Although relatively unknown at the time, Denson ran for mayor against incumbent Nancy Denson in 2014, winning 40% of the vote. He transformed his grassroots campaign into the now-defunct organization Athens for Everyone, which helped elect Denson and other progressives to the mayor and commission in 2018. Republican state legislators drew him out of his district, so four years later he ran for and won a school board seat instead. He has also worked as a union organizer and is currently employed by Advantage Behavioral Health Systems, a nonprofit that provides addiction and mental health services to the indigent.
This is the first of five interviews with candidates for Athens- Clarke County mayor. They are running in no particular order. It has been edited for length and clarity.
Flagpole: One of the things you’ve been talking about a lot, is this sort of central home for services. Can you go into a little more detail about where that would go and what kinds of services we’re talking about?
Tim Denson: Sure. It’s going to need to be in one of our more connected areas of town, if not downtown, somewhere that’s easy to get to for everybody. But my idea would be, not only having some of the services, but really having this mix of things. I would love us to have a public grocery store, especially if this was something that was closer to North Avenue, where now Piggly Wiggly is gone. We don’t have a grocery store over there. It could really fill that gap. And we’ve seen that happening in Atlanta, where they can actually offer cheaper prices by doing subsidized rent and other services.
behavioral health, like some of our home less service agents, but mixing that with things that would attract everybody, because I really want this to be something that not just those in crisis are going to. We’d also have park space there, maybe an amphitheater, a playground, so that this is a place that people can come together for ser vices, but also just for a community.
SPLOST funds. To be honest, I’m glad we
have the arena, but looking at all the needs we have now, I do think that we should have been prioritizing some other needs over giving huge amounts to the arena and some other projects.
FP: You were on the commission for that vote. Is the Classic Center a decision you regret?
TD: A little bit. By the time I was on the commission, most of the list was already made. We really need to be thinking, before we even start making those lists, about what needs are we trying to solve here with SPLOST funding. I think it would be better if we had some real identified needs, using our strategic plan to identify those before we ever get to that process.
FP: Food deserts clearly are a problem. Does the city really need to be in the grocery store business, though? Isn’t there some way to entice the private sector to fulfill that need?
TD: When they’ve done these public grocery stores, like the one that’s in Atlanta and in other places, they almost always are publicprivate partnerships. The one that they have in Atlanta is using publicly owned property, but then a privately owned grocery operator. Part of the agreement that they have for getting that subsidized rent and space is that they’re going to have certain items at discounts, and they
It’s hard. But at the same time, we figured out how to build a giant arena downtown. I did a couple of the volunteer shifts at the Multimodal Center during one of the freezes. I was there at like 4 o’clock in the morning, staring out the window at this giant arena that had lights on inside, that was heated inside, and yet I was surrounded by about 40 unhoused people sleeping on the ground. That juxtaposition was just wild, you know? It’s like, we had millions of dollars, and we did that. We did it well. We got a hockey team. Yet, I’m surrounded by dozens of people who don’t have a bed to sleep in, and if they were outside right now, would possibly die. That’s broken, right?
FP: We both know how expensive childcare is. If you enroll 100 kids, we’re talking about a million bucks. Is a tax on vapes really going to raise that kind of money?
couple of extra employees, and in return, they would have subsidized rates for a certain number of families.
FP: Could that create a situation like where, as some people say, the reason homeless people come here is the services?
TD: Again, I will go on the record again saying that is factually not true. Does that happen a little bit? Sure. At the Crisis Walk-in Center, when people are getting sent here from other counties, it is happening some, but the vast majority of it is people being sent here to our hospitals for emergency health care, or to our behavioral health center. That’s literally the way it’s supposed to operate at the state level. We get a call from the sheriff’s office to say, “Hey, we got this guy, we’re bringing them in.” He’s feeling suicidal or he’s, you know, whatever, and they bring him here. After
TD: I don’t think that the program I’m talking about would be something that would be giving completely free child care for everyone, but creating a deep subsidy
they’re finished and doing a little bit better, we get them into a recovery program, somewhere here in Athens or somewhere else. The idea that somehow unhoused people
If you really broke it down, it’s 5% per year for 10 years, but still, I get it. I do still believe that we need to be better at funding social services and community supports instead of trying to respond with law enforcement. I definitely think that hasn’t been working. We have a lot of those same problems, really, that we’ve been trying to fix with punitive law enforcement: drug use, homelessness, the rise in behavioral health crises, that’s just been getting worse and worse. I do think we’re going to need to explore some different alternative ways to respond to those things.
FP: You’ve talked about diversifying revenue streams for the county—the vape tax, the inclusionary parking idea, the open container entertainment district downtown. I’m having a hard time seeing how these things are going to bring in the level of money that is probably going to be needed to implement a lot of the things you’re talking about. Do you have any hard figures for these proposals?
TD: I don’t think the things I’m talking about are going to actually be as costly as what people think. Going back to the zerofare public transit, it was talked about like, we could never do this. It’s going to be so expensive. But then when you put it in place, it’s not that costly [about $1.5 million per year, covered by TSPLOST].
The most ambitious [proposal], I would say, is focusing on the homelessness issue, on us trying to find a way to get 50% of those who are chronically homeless here in Athens off the streets and housed. I think that’s the one that is going to take some money, because we’re having to find and pay for the housing—even though I think we can be finding some alternative styles of housing that wouldn’t be as costly—but we’re also going to have to be be able to fund the case managers that are going to be doing the wraparound services that are required in a permanent supportive housing model.
FP: Is this going to be a conflict for you, being an employee of Advantage?
TD: Before I become a mayor, I will be resigning from Advantage. I’m not sure if all the other candidates are planning on being a full- time mayor, and I definitely plan on making sure that I’m focused my entire time on being mayor.
But that one is the one where, I’ll be honest, I haven’t identified all the funding. That is a bit of a moonshot goal that is going to require not just the county doing this, but definitely the state.
Child care, I do think that we’ll be able to have that funded mostly with the vape taxes. The same thing with the inclusionary parking idea. I think that we will be able to, not take over funding for sidewalks, crosswalks and stuff, but be able to give them auxiliary funds so that we can be expanding it in the ways that we should.
FP: Parking leads me into the future land use plan. If the commission reduces the amount of intown density, is it going to limit your ability to build more housing the way you’ve proposed?
TD: It won’t help. It definitely adds another hurdle. It almost seems like we’re in a situation where the politically popular thing is to push back on density, because it’s just easier. We’re not designing the actual community that we need in the future, because we’re scared to do that politically. That’s another one of the reasons that I’m running. I think we have too many
elected leaders who just don’t have the political will to do what’s right for AthensClarke County. You’ve got one of my opponents [Dexter Fisher] that pushes back saying UGA’s only going to be increasing by 400 students every year. Well, 400 students, that’s probably an entire new student apartment complex somewhere. So where are those folks gonna go? Where they’ve been going has been into East Athens, into the Hancock Corridor, pushing out long- term people who’ve been living in the core of Athens, and it’s being taken over by students. And that’s because we’re not planning realistically.
FP: I’d be very surprised if you have the kind of progressive commission you served on, so how will you work with the commission you do have to do things even you’re admitting aren’t necessarily popular?
TD: I’m just going to try, to be honest. We need a mayor who’s going to try, rather than one who’s not going to at all. I feel confident that I can work with these folks. I point to the eviction prevention program as being one that wasn’t popular on the commission at first, but we were able to push through, and thank goodness we did, because we were able to keep hundreds of families in their homes.
We need to have a mayor that’s going to be honest and meet the people where they’re at, including with the commission ers. We’ll probably have some hard conversations. We’ll probably have some hard votes, and I want the public to be part of this process. Part of what I plan on doing is having regular town halls like I did as a commissioner across the county as mayor.
Bookmark it!
Events and Exhibits at UGA Special Collections Libraries
Film Screening
6 PM, April 14
Let me say one more thing about the housing stuff. We can look at other cities. We can look at the studies here in AthensClarke County. We talked about the cost of some of my ideas. I think we need to analyze the cost of encouraging sprawl. I have talked about how much more tax revenue you get from dense development. When you start to spread out, the costs become really expensive. There’s the environmental cost, but also the straight-up tax costs.
Same thing with homelessness—we’re not dealing with this. We’re arresting the homeless instead. We’re spending $80 or $90 per person, per night, having them sit in our jail. Then, on housing, we do need more housing, but just as important, a large percentage of it needs to be affordable.
FP: Speaking of spending $80 or $90 to send someone to jail, you pushed hard for the “tent city” homeless camp that was $2.5 million for 40 or 50 tents. Why not put them up in a hotel room?
TD: Even better, even cheaper than a hotel room is getting them a lease somewhere and paying a lease for 30 days. Basically, [we were] not prepared for it. That’s going to take a lot of planning, a lot of strategy, a lot of working together, a lot of building up resources to make sure we have the case managers to be able to do this, to make sure we have the units to move into. Another part of it is, we don’t have enough housing to do that right now. The main job I did for a long time was trying to get people into the rapid rehousing program. It was so hard to find affordable housing that we can move folks into. That’s why we need to be building more housing, but also having a much higher percentage of that housing be subsidized, to focus on low-income individuals here in Athens. f
Free screening of Johnny Mize doc “Stalking the Big Cat of Georgia”
New memorabilia featuring Georgia musicians on display at Akins Ford Arena
The theme for the upcoming installment of TEDxUGA is “Dark Mode.” The seven participating speakers will share ideas that emerge from contrast, from shifting perspectives directly toward the things we often overlook. The first speaker is Alex Mason, a lighting designer and assistant professor in the department of theatre and film who will examine the meaning of color and its impact on our daily lives and overall well being. Next is Arpita Shome, whose talk will focus on engineering advanced polymer-based materials for cost-effective wastewater treatment. Third is Anne Byrn, a bestselling food writer who explores recipes as cultural artifacts. Next is Dyci Sfregola, a supply chain leader who will reveal how everyday choices ripple through global networks of people. Music therapist Celia Nowlin will then discuss how the body’s natural rhythms can be influenced through music. Electrical engineering student Harshaa Rajarajanwill examine the habits, expectations and fears that quietly guide our lives. Finally, Mary Rathbone, the executive director and founder of Moms Adopting Moms, Inc, will talk about the realities of the foster care system. [Mary Beth Bryan]
The nonprofit Jam for Cam was started in 2018 in honor of Cameron Fearon, a University of Georgia student who battled melanoma throughout his teenage years. After Fearon’s death in 2018, his friends launched a battle of the bands event as a way to raise money for melanoma and cancer research organizations and spread awareness about the disease. The event has expanded astronomically since then, bringing in more than 40,000 attendees and raising over $1.4 million. Last year, Jam for Cam moved out of a local brewery and into the downtown area, growing even more this year to include a record 19 musical performances across seven stages. The headlining act this year is Goose, a rock band from Connecticut. For the first time, Jam in the Streets will also present a speaker series in collaboration with UGA Entrepreneurship Program and Creature Comforts, hosted at Studio 225 and spotlighting individuals who create. There will also be a kickoff show Friday night at Paloma Park featuring Penelope Road and Sweet Tea Pedigree. Check the Live Music Calendar for a comprehensive list of performers, times and locations. [MB]
Steve Forbert, a native of Mississippi, began writing songs at the age of 17, later moving to New York City to experience the punk rock scene of the 1970s. He performed on the streets of Greenwich Village and at the punk club CBGB—just him, his guitar and a harmonica—before finding his place in the city’s folk clubs. He signed a recording contract in 1978, releasing his debut record
Alive on Arrival soon after, with critics and the public immediately drawing comparisons to Bob Dylan. His poppier followup, 1979’s Jackrabbit Slim is when Forbert really hit his stride, though, making it to the No. 20 spot on the Billboard Top 200 and finding a pop hit in “Romeo’s Tune.” Forbert now has over 20 records to his name, most recently last year’s 10th anniversary remaster and remix of his 2015 record The Things
That I See, which he is currently touring across the U.S. Joining him in Athens will be local rock musician and Athens Music Walk of Fame honoree Michael Guthrie. [MB]
PERFORMANCE | MAR. 31–APR. 1
UGA Opera in Bloom
State Botanical Garden of Georgia • 7 p.m. • $25
In celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday, UGA Opera Theatre and Hugh Hodgson School of Music are presenting two performances of Jonathan Dove’s Mansfield Park. This romantic, two-act chamber opera, based on the 1814 novel of the same name, will draw listeners into the indelible author’s world. With a libretto written by Alasdair Middleton set to the tune of a four-handed piano score, the opera tells the story of Fanny Pierce, a girl sent to live with her uncle at Mansfield Park who must navigate romance, loyalty and mischief. Performed on the Botanical Garden’s Flower Garden Lawn, the glow of the spring sunset on the landscape will immerse and enchant audiences, creating the perfect intersection between nature and music. [MB]
Hailing from Clarksdale, MS, a city showered in the history of the blues, it’s no surprise that Christone “Kingfish” Ingram is known for being able to channel the spirit of the Delta. His mastery over the guitar has earned him comparisons to legends like B.B. King, Albert King and Buddy Guy. What sets him apart, though, is his ability to innovate, injecting the blues with funk, soul, hip hop, pop and jazz. He released his first record, Kingfish, in 2019 at the age of 19, securing his first Grammy Award nomination for Best Traditional Blues Album. His next record, 662, grabbed the win for Best Contemporary Blues Album. Most recently, Kingfish released Hard Road, his most refined work yet. According to his artist bio, “Kingfish sees his role not just as a performer, but as a bridge honoring the foundations laid by those before him while carving new paths for those who follow. Hard Road captures that spirit.” [MB] f
arts & culture
Think Before You Move
13TH ANNUAL CHESS & COMMUNITY CONFERENCE
By Libba Beaucham arts@flagpole.com
When I walked into the space, I was immediately intrigued by what was going on: a spirited debate on the premise that “one must fail in order to succeed.” A teenage boy stood at a podium before 20 or so of his peers arguing his position and responding to rebuttals. I was impressed that a group of teens could even take turns, but it made sense considering they’ve been practicing in another capacity—the game of chess.
Chess & Community is a local nonprofit that has served Athens youth for more than 20 years, using chess as a pathway to developing life skills. The organization is celebrating its 13th annual Chess & Community Conference on Saturday, Mar. 28 from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. at The Classic Center. The free event showcases how Chess & Community has grown over two decades, with activities including a youth chess tournament, open play chess for all levels, a robotics station, an exhibit of chess boards from around the world, AI and VR learning, keynote speakers and more.
The concept came to Lemuel “Life” LaRoche, Chess & Community’s executive director, when he was working as a social worker in the Athens juvenile justice system. Having grown up playing chess, he saw the game as a way to connect with youth and offer mentorship. It took some convincing, but LaRoche had an incentive no teenager could refuse. “You beat me, you get $100. And immediately that helped them jump on the board,” he said. From those early games grew a youth chess club called the Classic City Knights. Soon LaRoche saw the opportunity to use chess as a catalyst for teaching life skills.
ing chess and learning new skills. Charlie Walker joined Chess & Community when he was in 5th grade. Today he’s a student at Cedar Shoals High School interested in pursuing electrical engineering after graduation. “The motto is, ‘Think before you move,’ and they always make sure to make it clear that that’s not just a motto in chess, but in life,” Walker said. He has witnessed the growth of the organization and recalled how exciting it was when Chess & Community began meeting at Youth Force on the second floor of the Georgia Square Mall. “We didn’t have to go to the library or go outside. We actually have our own space to call ours,” he said.
“I wanted them to learn how systems around them work. I was teaching chess from that perspective and correlating each piece on that chessboard with some kind of system that they encounter day to day, be it the Department of Juvenile Justice, the education system, how to engage with the police department, the banking system,” said LaRoche. By 2012, LaRoche incorporated Chess & Community as a nonprofit and held its first conference.
When LaRoche saw that students needed support in communication skills, he expanded programming to include public speaking and debate. “It’s one thing to be brilliant in chess, and it’s another thing to learn how to communicate that brilliance, to be able to engage and have those real dialogues,” said LaRoche. When the pandemic hit and STEM skills became increasingly critical, a robotics program began where students could build and code robots to move chess pieces. “Chess is the core, the center, but you’re learning other important elements that can potentially lead to job skills,” said LaRoche.
The students themselves attest to the value of the community, the mentorship they receive, and the fun they have play -
One of the newer members is Sam Howard, a freshman at North Oconee High School. He joined last year when he was feeling culturally disconnected from his peers at school. “I was one of the few Black people there, and I was like, man, I wish I could be more part of my culture and stuff, and my mom introduced me to Chess & Community,” Howard said. The majority of students that participate in Chess & Community are Black male teenagers. Both Walker and Howard emphasized that the community is open to all students. “Anyone is welcome, and the more diversity we have with the demographic of people in there, the better it will be,” said Walker. When I asked Howard what he would want potential female students to know, he said, “I would say to her that we would stand up for you if you ever feel like something’s off or like anyone’s being weird to you. That’s not something Chess & Community is. It’s a very welcoming environment.”
The students show this when they’re out in the community, too, for service projects. “We just like to get around the Athens community,” said Walker. “We want to invite as many people into the program as possible and show that we’re a friendly space for anyone who might need help with what they’re doing in life.”
Information on all Chess & Community programs and the conference is available at chessandcommunity.org. f
WHAT: Chess & Community Conference
WHEN: Saturday, Mar 28, 9 a .m .–3 p m WHERE: The Classic Center HOW MUCH: FREE!
Steve Forbert
MARCUS MADDOX
Mountain of Youth’s “Automatic Days”
GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
WHAT ELSE IS NEW: Since his EP release Something Scary back in 2023, Parker Lusk has released a few more singles, with the latest being “Medicine Helps,” which came out a couple of weeks ago. It’s a very steadypaced tune with only a passing nod to the 1990s rock and roll that has characterized a lot of his work. That said, there’s a certain sense here of this being at least spiritually influenced by Dinosaur Jr. This release also includes an instrumental version of the song, which is a nice touch and something a lot of rock musicians don’t do. Find this on Spotify.
record will lead to a full-length of similar material. Find this at ryanberesch.band camp.com.
Mansfield Park
GOING, GOING, GONG: As much as I can, I try to keep y’all informed about all the Sonic Space happenings at ATHICA. Well, a really special one is going to happen Tuesday, Mar. 31. This evening will feature composer and avant-garde percussionist Tatsuya Nakatani (Nakatani Gong Orchestra). His work is described as “centered around his adapted bowed gong, supported by an array of drums, cymbals and singing bowls.” Also on the bill that night is composer Austin Engelhardt (Turnsōl Tapes). His work is described as focusing on the immediacy of performance through both improvised and notated composition. I’d suggest visiting the websites of each artist—tatsuyanakatani.com and austinengel hardtcomposer.com, respectively—as each has loads of cool info. This show is $15, and it is not a suggested donation this time, so please be prepared to pay.
ALL THE RIGHT FRIENDS: Michael Stipe (R.E.M.) has released his first new music in three years with producer/ collaborator Andrew Watt The song is named “I Played The Fool,” and it’s the main theme for the new Steve Carell series Rooster on HBO Max. Anytime Stipe’s voice appears anywhere, the default is to think it sounds like R.E.M., which is totally forgivable because of his distinctly unmissable vocals. The thing is, though, this song really kind of does. At any rate, this would fit seamlessly on any collection of his other work. At least that’s how I hear it. Find this on all major streaming services except Spotify.
JOY OF MAN’S INSPIRING: Robert Schneider (Apples In Stereo) has released the three- track Switched-On Computer. The title is a nod to composer Wendy Carlos’ Switched-On series of electronic classical albums, but also very literal. Using rulesbased artificial intelligence, as opposed to generative AI, Schneider explains in the album notes that SOC is an “open- source Python program that uses the rules of baroque counterpoint for two voices plus a few composition rules of my own, and an onboard synthesizer coded in collaboration with [son] Max Schneider, to randomly generate very unusual classical music.” The title track is a whole minute of severe modulation atop driven synths. The second, “Silent Dawn,” is a contemplative piano number that doesn’t exactly meander but neither does it have, as Schneider notes, a “tonal center.” The record wraps up with the chamber-like “Spatial Bloom” which features chilling and stirring vocalizations against a dark background. I encourage you all to read Schneider’s extensive notes on this as his process is fascinating. Find this at cloudrecordings.bandcamp.com.
THIS IS THE LIFE: Preorders are now open for the upcoming Mountain of Youth album, which is the new project by Hunter Morris (Blue Blood, Gift Horse). It’s titled Nowhere, NW and will run 10 songs long. The first single, “Automatic Days,” is out now. Right out of the gate the song announces itself as
QUIET INSIDE: I’m not quite sure where Ryan Beresch (Koko Beware) lands geographically these days, but his current bio says “Athens,” so I’m going with that. Last month he released a four- song EP Alive and Alone. Beresch says these four acoustic takes are demos, and they very well may be, but the compositions themselves sound pretty complete to me. It starts with the genuinely sweet “Precious As You.” This same sentiment is repeated in “To Go Home” which then leads into the dejected “I Ever Knew.” He brings the heart of everything back around on the final song “Cheap Copper Pot.” Hopefully this little
an earworm. A deft and reasonable use of a whistling sound refraining throughout, starting at the very beginning, cements this in the listener’s ears. And accompanying this is yet another incredibly penned tune by Morris that wraps the listener in, essentially, the latter half of the 20th century, but with noted high points of Americana, folk, 1970s rock and roll, college radio-era jangle pop and more. The full album is slated for release May 15, and this is available both digitally and on vinyl. Dig it at mountain-of- youth.bandcamp.com. f
Kishi Bashi Returns
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Singer- songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Kaoru Ishibashi began his solo career as Kishi Bashi in 2011, after founding the electronic rock outfit Jupiter One and being a member of projects like local legend of Montreal. Although he grew up in Norfolk, VA, the Athens music community embraced Ishibashi as one of its own for the years he made Georgia his home. During that time, when he found himself burnt out from where his music career had taken him, Ishibashi channeled those feelings into his 2016 album release, Sonderlust
In celebration of the album’s 10th anniversary reissue, Kishi Bashi is headlining an album play tour with opener Bayonne. On Tuesday, Mar. 31, the tour will make a stop at the 40 Watt Club for somewhat of a homecoming performance.
Flagpole: The album Sonderlust marked a stylistic and personal shift in your music at the time, so looking back on it now, what are your feelings about that album?
me understand that as an artist. Musically I’m always exploring, so it’s taught me a lot that I have a very strong vision. I hired Chris Taylor of Grizzly Bear to co-
Kishi Bashi: I mean, it’s a long time ago, right? It was a very mature album for me at the time. It’s kind of the beginning of me realizing what it’s like to make an artistic statement as a whole, as opposed to my first two albums before that. I kind of just threw everything at them, but this was more of a dedicated, focused vision.
FP: So did Sonderlust inspire any lasting changes in your music or your life, like how you’ve gone about music?
KB: I mean, yeah, tangentially, it’s kind of the beginning of knowing that an artistic vision is really a snapshot of your creativity. And so I think it definitely started to help
produce with me, and I realized that my demos didn’t really change that much like I thought they would. Maybe I wasn’t as open to outside influences as I thought, or my vision was so strong that I realized I don’t need another producer.
FB: The 40 Watt Club has been the backdrop of some big moments in your life. Do you have any complicated feelings when you return to the 40 Watt, or is it usually just an exciting experience for you?
KB: Oh yeah, it’s like a homecoming, you know, because I love the 40 Watt. And, yeah, it’s kind of… Hendershot’s is closing down. Athens is my second home, so it’s really kind of bittersweet that Hendershot’s is closing down [the night of my show]. I’m
going to go see what’s up over there. Then it’s kind of amazing that I can just walk [to the 40 Watt], right?
Playing the 40 Watt is always a joy. They’ve always done well for their artists, and they’re super supportive… They know how to serve the arts as opposed to just always scrambling to make money on big shows. So I’ve always had an appreciation. And for my early Sonderlust tour, Seth [Hendershot] was my drummer for that tour, I think in 2016. So it’s kind of bittersweet in that way, but I’m glad that he’s finding time for himself.
[Editor’s note: Since this interview took place, Seth Hendershot has announced that new local owners will be taking over at Hendershot’s on Apr. 1. However, Hendershot will still be hosting a final day festival in celebration of his departure on Mar. 31.]
FP: In more recent years, what has been your focus as a musician?
KB: I’m trying to become a better producer and engineer. So I’m trying to educate myself, like really diving into Ableton Live, which is the software I’ve been using for years, but just trying to have a command over my studio, which I haven’t really. I haven’t spent enough time in my studio. Otherwise, I’m always just looking for ideas.
So I’m looking to collaborate with more and more people as I get the opportunity.
FP: You seem to stay on the road traveling and doing a lot of different types of performances. Is that still a big part of your life?
KB: I’m very lucky that I’m able to do a show by myself, if I want or need to. But I also like to have a band and have a big party, celebration style tour or concert. Then I also like to play with orchestras and strings, so I’ll always jump on that opportunity. I think that kind of gives my audience a diversity in performance. I keep that in mind, too. I’ll show up with a big band for one tour, and then the next time, I’ll come with a string quartet or something more intimate, and I kind of vary that.
One of my peak moments in Athens was playing with the UGA Symphony. That was just amazing. Such an amazing sound. I think that was my peak. I can’t come back from that. So that being said, it’s always great to bring this album back. f
WHO: Kishi Bashi, Bayonne WHEN: Tuesday, Mar 31, 7 p m (doors) WHERE: 40 Watt Club HOW MUCH: $30
MAX MCNOWN Singer-songwriter from Bend, OR, based in Nashville, TN who has charted with his singles “A Lot More Free” and “Better Me for You.”
Georgia Theatre Rooftop
6:30 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre. com
IMOGENE Country singer-songwriter.
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
UNIVERSITY CHORUS UGA’s largest mixed choral ensemble, specializing in classical choral and choral/orchestral repertoire.
GLEE CLUB Performing repertoire for tenor/bass voices.
TREBLE CHOIR Perform repertoire for treble voices.
Ramsey Hall
5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring Duo Steiner–Hochwartner, an ensemble formed in 2017 by Austrian organist and pianist Constanze Hochwartner and Italian trombonist Peter Steiner.
UGA Tate Student Center
Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org
CAUGHY Artist combining assorted synthesizers, drum machines and vocals to create simple yet charmingly vulnerable productions.
RED OAK STRING BAND Local band playing a feel-good blend of bluegrass, blues, folk, rock and classic country. (6 p.m.)
Flicker Theatre & Bar
9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.
The Globe
9 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ globe.athens VIV AND THE THINGS Alternative country noise for sweetie pies.
RACECAR 44 Athens indie band featuring members of Picture Show racing their way into your heart.
REBEKAH JANE Athens-based musician.
Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga
ERIK OLSON’S WRESTLE THE BEAR JAM Monthly jam session featuring a rotating cast of players and genres.
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 26
Athentic Brewing Co. Blues on Tap. 7–9 p.m. www.athentic brewing.com
THE ORIGINAL SCREW TOPS Blues jam for musicians, dancers and music lovers every fourth Thursday.
LUXURY VEHICLE High-energy duo featuring DJ Reindeer Games with John Swint on drums.
BADKILL Baddest, deadest local punk rock band.
Flicker Theatre & Bar
8:30 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatre andbar.com
KNELT Psych-folk friends from Atlanta.
SLOPING Atlanta-based ambient folk performing solo.
SPITEHOUND Brooding, earnest indie.
CHAIRS Enigmatic local recording project that pulls from shoegaze and post-punk influences.
The Globe
7:30–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ globe.athens
MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-HOTS
Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.
Hendershot’s
8 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com
BIG BAND ATHENS 18-member Athens band whose swinging tunes consist of cover music from the ’40s to the ’70s.
Hidden Gem
7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ hiddengemglobalhq
ALYS WILLMAN WITH GIFT ECONOMY & KG Debut of the trio bringing fire circle sing-along vibes.
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $6 (w/ UGA ID), $18. music.uga.edu
UGA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Performing its “Fan Favorites” program, which includes Scheherazade, Op. 35, a symphonic suite composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in 1888 and based on One Thousand and One Nights
Live Wire
Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10 (w/ UGA ID), $12 (adv.), $15. bit.ly/ LiveWireAthensMar26
CHIRP Genre-hopping band based out of Ann Arbor, MI often playing
in the styles of progressive rock, funk and jazz fusion.
SAMURAI TEST DRIVE Fivepiece jazz fusion band based out of Athens, GA that takes inspiration from artists like Casiopea, Return to Forever, Lettuce and Jaco Pastorius. Nowhere Bar
9:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga
BLUES JAM Bring an instrument and join host Big C and The Moonshynes for an open blues jam. The house band includes Scott Nicholson, Derek Warren, Brent Davenport and Bo Hembree.
AUSTIN SISK Covers and originals in the vein of alt-rock, indie and Americana.
Midwest emo band formed in Kalamazoo, MI in 2021. RETIREMENT PARTY Emo band from Chicago whose work has been featured in outlets like NPR, Paste Magazine and Stereogum.
KEROSENE HEIGHTS Emo-punk group from Asheville, NC inspired by early 2000s music. Amici at The Falls
6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat thefalls
self-awarded label of “stanky funky junk.”
SWEET TEA PEDIGREE Local Southern rock band.
Ramsey Hall
7:30 p.m. $52 (discount w/ UGA ID). pac.uga.edu
TORD GUSTAVSEN TRIO Norwegian jazz pianist and composer whose music is the offspring of American jazz traditions and European culture.
NOCHE DE BAILE MR. CLAHVAY, TIMBAthens and SALSAthens host a monthly dance social with the latest Latin music. The evening kicks off with a dance class.
YUMBOTRON Electric guitar-driven, psychedelic Cumbia band featuring members of Pylon Reenactment Society, Bichos Vivos and Organically Programmed.
FORCEGHOST Electronic psych duo based out of Augusta.
Flicker Theatre & Bar Tribal Party Collective Presents. 7 p.m. $5. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
TRIBAL NIGHT 05: FRACTALS
Tribal Party Collective resident DJs, including Somontano, UnitedInSound, Pisgah and Iryss, represent each of their respective styles, allowing expressed sounds to coerce audience members on a spiraling subjective journey.
JACKOPIERCE The alternative rock project of Jack O’Neill and Cary Pierce, which they began in 1988. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga
F.O.R.S. Neal Fountain, Erik Olson, Jeff Reilly and Matt Stoessel playing funk, rock, soul and experimental jazz.
Paloma Park Jam in the Streets Kickoff. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). www. jam4cam.com PENELOPE ROAD Five-piece band that boldly embraces the
THE BAND HONEY Four-piece from Auburn, AL that’s sweet like honey. (Paloma Park, 2 p.m.)
WAX MONKEY Five-piece jam band composed of childhood friends hailing from Birmingham, AL. (Paloma Park, 3:30 p.m.)
SLATER NALLEY Country musician from Georgia who starred on last year’s season of American Idol. (Paloma Park, 5:45 p.m.)
WORKIN’ PAST MIDNIGHT Local rock band. (Paloma Park, 8:15 p.m.)
ELLE JARRELL Athens/Atlanta-based country singer-songwriter. (Bar South, 3 p.m.)
EASY HONEY Charleston, SC rock and roll band infused with singer-songwriter folk roots and East Coast surf rock. (Bar South, 5 p.m.)
PEACH ICE CREAM BLUEGRASS Bluegrass band that blends folk and blues with a carefree dash of improvisation to sooth the soul. (Creature Comforts, 3 p.m.)
THE GRATEFUL DADS Local Grateful Dead cover band. (Creature Comforts, 5 p.m.)
AXIAL Atlanta-based DJ. (Breakaway Stage at Union Fare, 3 p.m. & Woodford, 7 p.m.)
JAMES TRIBE DJ and producer who recently released his debut single, “Locked in Deep.” (Breakaway Stage at Union Fare, 5 p.m.)
LUIS AND BRYDE DJ duo. (Breakaway Stage at Union Fare, 7 p.m.)
NOTE DJ set. (Woodford, 5 p.m.) Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
SUNKEN CAGES The musical project of Indian born drummer, electronic producer and educator Ravish Momin, who is currently based in New York City.
KILLICK HINDS Athens Appalachian trance metal made on unusual stringed instruments with an emphasis on unquantifiable rhythms, intuitive intonation and shamanistic ROYGBIV.
CHRIS HAMPTON BAND Athens-based band performing a variety of country, western and rock dance music.
Downtown Athens Jam in the Streets. $30 (students), $35. www.jam4cam.com
MOON TAXI Five-piece alternative rock band from Nashville formed in 2006. (Akins Ford Arena + Visit Athens Stage, 7 p.m.)
GOOSE Rock band from Wilton, CT known for its union of indie-rock hooks, sprawling improvisation and driving rhythm. (Akins Ford Arena + Visit Athens Stage, 9 p.m.)
TOMORROW’S PROBLEM Energetic and upbeat band formed at the University of South Carolina, inspired by legends like Jimi Hendrix. (#GetNaked Stage, 2:30 p.m.)
JAZCOOZY Jam band from Boone, NC blending rock, indie, blues and funk. (#GetNaked Stage, 4 p.m.)
CLAY STREET UNIT Colorado band a sound that mixes the acoustic instrumentation of bluegrass and folk with the amplified energy of Americana and country. (#GetNaked Stage, 5:30 p.m.)
ALIEN FUNK ACADEMY Athens-based power trio specializing in high intensity rock and roll influenced by Vulfpeck, Umphree’s McGee and Phish.
ANNIE LEETH Local producer and violinist loops drums, synths and strings.
Flying Squid Comedy Hardcore in the Classic City. 8 p.m. $10. flyingsquidcomedy.com
FOUND GUILTY Hardcore based out of Pendergrass, GA. REGULATOR Music for mounting up.
STEVE FORBERT Pop and folk musician known for hitting it big in 1979 with “Romeo’s Tune,” now touring The Things That I See, which was remixed and remastered last year for its 10th anniversary.
MICHAEL GUTHRIE Musician whose band has been a staple of the Athens rock scene since the 1970s.
ATLANTA VICE Live ’80s rewind experience inspired by the world of Stranger Things, featuring music from and inspired by the series.
No. 3 Railroad Street 10 a.m.–3 p.m. www.3railroad.org
ATHENS AREA SHAPE NOTE SINGING Sing from shape note hymnals originally published in the 1800s by Georgia composers: The Social Harp by John G. McCurry of
Darol Anger & Bruce Molsky will play at the Rialto Club on Thursday, Mar. 26.
Hart County and The Sacred Harp by B.F. White of Hamilton. Potluck lunch at 12 p.m.
DJ NATE Spinning an early set of ’60s–’70s rocksteady and reggae and a late set of dancehall classics.
DAVE’S BEES’ HONEY Dave (Cicada Rhythm) plays outsider folk for fans of Michael Hurley and Twain.
JULIA BARFIELD Young folk singer-songwriter with roots in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains.
THE PINK STONES Local cosmic country band with a lighthearted, twangy charm.
YUMBOTRON Electric guitar-driven, psychedelic Cumbia band featuring members of Pylon Reenactment Society, Bichos Vivos and Organically Programmed. Boutier Winery & Inn Wine Down. 3–5 p.m. www.boutier winery.com
JASON ELDER Multi-instrumentalist playing an eclectic blend of covers. The Globe
4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens
TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION
Easy listening traditional Irish music. Oak House Distillery 3:30–6 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery. com
FOLIE À QUATRE Playing a mix of French chansons, jazzy tunes and originals by Lavon Smith, accompanied on guitar, accordion and double bass.
Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.”
Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall
7:30 p.m. $6 (w/UGA ID), $18. music. uga.edu
world to life with Mansfield Park, Jonathan Dove’s witty, romantic chamber opera.
INGRAM Blues guitarist and singer from Clarksdale, MS who became a well-known performer in his teenage years, known for carrying on the legacy of blues music while also innovating the form.
Amici at The Falls
6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat thefalls
CAM NORTON Covers and originals in the vein of rock, folk, bluegrass and country.
Athentic Brewing Co.
6:30–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com
SONGWRITERS ANONYMOUS
Featuring songwriters Austin Sisk, July Woman and John Kinnison in the round.
Ciné
HARD TACK Presents. 7 p.m. $10. www.athenscine.com
38 STRINGS Multi-generational acoustic folk music with 38 strings between them. (6 p.m.)
Flicker Theatre & Bar
9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.
Georgia Theatre Rooftop
MUSIC
THURSDAY, MARCH 26 at 7:30 p.m. Hodgson Concert Hall. FOR TICKETS:
$15 - Adults $3 UGA students music.uga.edu 706-542-4400
UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA “FAN FAVORITES”
The upcoming “Fan Favorites” program includes Scheherazade, Op. 35, a symphonic suite composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in 1888 and based on One Thousand and One Nights. Come join us for a beautiful night and see if we picked your favorite piece!
TUESSDAY, MARCH 31 at 7:30 p.m. Hodgson Concert Hall. FOR TICKETS:
ARCO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS “VIOLIN AND GUITAR” Monday, October 20
ARCO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Performing selections including Concerto for Guitar, Violin and Chamber Orchestra by William Lovelady with UGA faculty Daniel Bolshoy as the guitar soloist and UGA alum Pyeongkang Park as guest conductor.
Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga
STEELBOY Inspired by Midwestern alternative rock, this Athens band incorporates both ’80s and ’90s punk rock into its sound.
NOISE MOUNTAIN Inspired by Midwestern alternative rock, this Athens band incorporates both ’80s and ’90s punk rock into its sound.
BADKILL Baddest, deadest local punk rock band.
Ramsey Hall
5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
UGA TROMBONE CHOIR WITH JAMES NOVA UGA Trombone
Choir is joined by the Pittsburgh Symphony trombonist/Duquesne University Adjunct Trombone
Faculty member, performing Nova’s arrangements of music by John Williams, Danny Elfman and Michael Giacchino.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
7 p.m. $25. botgarden.uga.edu
UGA OPERA IN BLOOM UGA Opera Theatre brings Jane Austen’s
6 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com
MORRISSEY BLVD. Brother trio from New Bedford, MA playing high-energy rock and pop music.
Nowhere Bar
8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowherebarathensga
CHELEKIS Atlanta alt-rockers who founded the band as a way to mix each member’s unique musical background into danceable, catchy songs.
Porterhouse Grill
7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.
Ramsey Hall
5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu
JAZZ ENSEMBLE I Hugh Hodgson’s advanced-level big band performing a variety of styles, including swing, be-bop, latin and contemporary jazz.
JAZZ ENSEMBLE II Ensemble that introduces students to the experience of performing a variety of styles in a traditional big band.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
7 p.m. $25. botgarden.uga.edu
UGA OPERA IN BLOOM UGA Opera Theatre brings Jane Austen’s world to life with Mansfield Park, Jonathan Dove’s witty, romantic chamber opera. f
$15 - Adults $3 UGA students music.uga.edu 706-542-4400
One of the featured pieces of the evening will be the Concerto for Guitar, Violin and Chamber Orchestra by William Lovelady with UGA faculty Daniel Bolshoy as the guitar soloist and UGA alum Pyeongkang Park as guest conductor.
UPCOMING FREE PERFORMANCES
AFRICAN MUSIC ENSEMBLE “AFRICAN GEMS” Celebrating Kenyan Music Traditions
MONDAY, MAR. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall
TUESDAY, MAR.31 at 5:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall
UGA TROMBONE CHOIR with JAMES NOVA, PITTSBURGH SYMPHONY JAZZ ENSEMBLES I & II
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1 at5:30 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.
event calendar
Tuesday 24
CLASSES: Boots & Brews Line Dancing (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn the line dancing basics from host Lindsay before the floor opens for social dancing. Fourth Tuesdays, 7–9 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.flickertheatreandbar.com
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: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
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
Wednesday 25
ART: Pop-Up Exhibition (Georgia Museum of Art) The curated exhibition “Pretty Politics: Women as Symbols, Women as Subjects” will be on view. Mar. 24–25, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mar. 26, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. www. georgiamuseum.org
ART: Artist Talk (Georgia Museum of Art) Glen Wilson will discuss the various creative and intellectual concepts that have influenced his dub aesthetic. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
ART: Pints & Paint (Terrapin Beer Co.) Drop in for a guided painting session. 6:30 p.m. $15. www.terrapinbeer.com
CLASSES: Photography Workshop (Land Family Home) Seminars from industry professionals with hands-on shoots to practice. 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. www.landfamily home.com
EVENTS: ACC Library Friends Spring Book Sale (ACC Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks. Wednesday is Preview Night (for members only; $25/membership), Saturday is $10/Bag Day. Mar. 25–28. www.athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Archery with Arwen (Bogart Library) Learn the art of the bow during this Middle Earth March event. All ages. 4 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
FILM: Film Happy Hour (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/FilmAthens
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the film Cracking Up. 7 p.m. FREE! www. flickertheatreandbar.com
FILM: We the Owners (ACC Library) Screening of the documentary that tells the stories of three American companies where employees share ownership in the businesses they help build. 7 p.m. FREE! forms.gle/ ZwqKLsdah8Xr3X1T7
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: 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
THEATER: Mrs. Doubtfire (The Classic Center) Family-friendly musical comedy based on the 1993 film. Mar. 25–26, 7:30 p.m. $33.75–125.25. www.classiccenter.com
Thursday 26
ART: Pop-Up Exhibition (Georgia Museum of Art) The curated exhibition “Pretty Politics: Women as Symbols, Women as Subjects” will be on view. Mar. 24–25, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Mar. 26, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. www. georgiamuseum.org
ART: Diary Comics Workshop (Lyndon House Arts Center) Artist in Residence Abby Kacen will teach writing and drawing styles to create personalized comics. Registration required. 5:30 p.m. FREE! accgovga.myrec.com
ART: Closing Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Local metal artist Steve Sweetser will have works on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery. com
ART: Artist Talk (Lyndon House Arts Center) Artist-in-Residence Peter Loose will discuss his collection of Mountain Dulcimers on view, with the unveiling of a new dulcimer he created during his residency. 6 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse
CLASSES: Ladies Only Line Dance Lessons (Boutier Winery & Inn) Learn how to line dance with Amy. All skill levels welcome. 6:30–9 p.m. $5. www.boutierwinery.com
COMEDY: Tropic Masculinity (Flying Squid Comedy) Improv group who are undefeated Athens BareChuckle Champions. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: ACC Library Friends Spring Book Sale (ACC Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks. Wednesday is Preview Night (for members only; $25/membership), Saturday is $10/Bag Day. Mar. 25–28. www.athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Impact (Georgia Museum of Art) This event will include live performances, an art gallery walk, individual reflection stations, art therapy sessions, music therapy sessions and dance therapy sessions. 4:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
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
(non-members). www.crawford long.org
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (Avid Bookshop) Author Robert Gwaltney will discuss his new book Sing Down the Moon followed by a conversation with Ann Hite, a Q&A and a book signing. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.avidbook shop.com
LECTURES & LIT: Graduate Reading Series (Baldwin Hall) Visiting poet Fargo Nissim Tbakhi will give a reading followed by a Q&A. 7 p.m. FREE! english.uga.edu
MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players
scenes inspired by lively conversation with special guests Plan B. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com
EVENTS: ACC Library Friends Spring Book Sale (ACC Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks. Wednesday is Preview Night (for members only; $25/membership), Saturday is $10/Bag Day. Mar. 25–28. www.athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Savor the State (The Classic Center) Browse products from a variety of Georgia small businesses, meet the Flavor of Georgia Finalists and more. 2–6 p.m. $10 (students), $20 (general admission), FREE! (12 & under). flavorofgeorgia.caes. uga.edu
EVENTS: Spring Wine Tasting (Tonique Bottle Co.) Drop in to try four samples of wines in a variety
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: 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 Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkein with quizzes, trivia, snacks and more. Ages 8–12. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Coffee Together (Lyndon House Arts Center) Join Philip Elliot from the Georgia Department of Public Health for his presentation “Lead-Safe & Healthy Homes.” 10 a.m. FREE! www.acc gov.com/leadhazard
LECTURES & LIT: Across The Board Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. Fourth Thursdays, 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Divided Allegiances (Crawfod Long Museum) Join Ken Johnston from History Now as he discusses the conflict of Georgia Loyalists and Patriots during the American Revolution. 6 p.m. $7 (members), $10
welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org
SPORTS: Harlem Globetrotters (Akins Ford Arena) The world famous trick team is celebrating its 100 Year Tour. 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (game). $40.75 & up. www. classiccenter.com
THEATER: One Man, Two Guvnors (Quinn Hall) Athens Creative Theatre (ACT) presents the Tony Award-winning comedy about a down-on-his-luck musician. Mar. 26–27, 7 p.m. Mar. 28, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. $15. www.accgov.com/act
THEATER: Mrs. Doubtfire (The Classic Center) Family-friendly musical comedy based on the 1993 film. Mar. 25–26, 7:30 p.m. $33.75–125.25. www.classic center.com
Friday 27
ART: Free Sketch Friday (Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum) Artists of all ages and skills can tour the museum then sketch items from the collections. All materials provided. 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. FREE! botgarden.uga.edu
ART: Opening Reception (Foyer) Neil Hancock’s exhibition “5 o’clock ANYWHERE” features drawings inspired by the spirit and nostalgia of his New Orleans neighborhood. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www. foyerathens.com
COMEDY: The Walsh With Plan B (The Flying Squid) Improv performance of a series of quick-witted
View artist Beverly Buchanan’s sculptures and drawings, and make your own found art take-home project inspired by the collection. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.georgia museum.org
ART: Painting Rocks (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn how to paint your own nature-themed rock. 11:30 a.m. $5/person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks. org/WatsonMillBridge
CLASSES: Learn Miniature Painting Workshop (Tyche’s Games) Bring your primed miniatures and learn the basics of painting them. Supplies provided. 1 p.m. $5. www. tychesgames.com
CLASSES: Bachata Lady Styling Bachata Conexion Athens hosts a series of drop-in classes focused on lady styling techniques and body movement. 5 p.m. $10. www.bachataconexionathens.com
COMEDY: Rapture Comedy Show (Sister Louisa’s Church Bar) Lineup of Southern-based comedians. Last Saturdays, 9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/rapturecomedy_
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers market.net
of styles that are great for warmer weather. 5–7 p.m. $10. www.shop tonique.com
EVENTS: SPLAT! (Bizarro-Wuxtry) Pre-party for FLUKE! featuring live comic readings from local and touring artists who will be tabling at the festival. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/mild_pain
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: Homeschool Art Explorers (OCAF) Enjoy a scavenger hunt, artist talk, art activities and more. Ages 5 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m–2 p.m. FREE! (members), $10 (non-members). www.ocaf.com
LECTURES & LIT: TEDxUGA 2026 (Morton Theatre) An independently organized TED event that highlights the UGA’s community involvement in experiences, research and more. 7 p.m. $15–35. www.tedxuga.com
THEATER: One Man, Two Guvnors (Quinn Hall) Athens Creative Theatre (ACT) presents the Tony Award-winning comedy about a down-on-his-luck musician. Mar. 26–27, 7 p.m. Mar. 28, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. $15. www.accgov.com/act
Saturday 28
ART: Family Day: No Place Like Home (Georgia Museum of Art)
EVENTS: 13th Annual Chess and Community Conference (The Classic Center) Chess and Community invite all to this youth-led event to celebrate exceptional students awarded with scholarships and engage with chess tournaments, VR, robotics and coding activities. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE! www.chessand community.org
EVENTS: FLUKE! 2026 (Live Wire) The mini-comic festival organized by Athens-area comic artists, underground publishers and their enthusiasts. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $2. www.flukeisawesome.blogspot.com
EVENTS: KACCB Litter League Cleanup (ACC Library) Volunteers will meet to pick up trash at the ACC Library and the surrounding neighborhoods. 10 a.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/kaccb
EVENTS: ACC Library Friends Spring Book Sale (ACC Library) Browse books, children’s books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks. Wednesday is Preview Night (for members only; $25/membership), Saturday is $10/Bag Day. Mar. 25–28. www.athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Secret Record Swap (Athentic Brewing Co.) Vendors from around the Southeast will be buying, trading and selling records, CDs, tapes, books, posters, DVDs and more. 11 a.m. (early admission). $5. 12–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com
EVENTS: Guns to Gardens (The Table) RAWtools South will be on site to dismantle unwanted firearms (unloaded and working), transforming them into garden tools and art. 12–3 p.m. www.tableuga.org
EVENTS: Jam in the Streets (Downtown Athens) Annual music festival that raises awareness for cancer research and features bands, vendors, interactive activities and more. 12–11 p.m. $30 (students), $35. www.jam4cam.com
EVENTS: No Kings Protest (Various Locations) The nation-wide protest
Greg Benson’s exhibition “Lands Left” is on view at Athentic Brewing Co. An artist reception will be held Sunday, Mar. 29 from 5–8 p.m.
against the Trump administration, beginning with a rally and ending with a democracy fair. 12:30–5 p.m. FREE! tinyurl.com/NK3Athens
EVENTS: Talking Tolkien (Bogart Library) Celebrate the end of Middle Earth March with a discussion on Tolkien’s works, snacks and second breakfast, and more. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
EVENTS: Jammin’ In Our Jammies (Hope Haven) Wear your favorite party pajamas and enjoy an evening of games, music and a Best Pajamas contest. All proceeds benefit the Athens Area Homeless Shelter. 6–9 p.m. $50. www.helpathens homeless.org
FILM: Backlight Student Film Festival (Morton Theatre) This showcase of student films features panels, screenings and awards. FREE! Mar. 28, 3–9 p.m. Mar. 29, 1–6 p.m. www.backlightfilmfestival. com
GAMES: Day of Board Game Demonstrations (Tyche’s Games) Try new games and watch how they’re played. 12 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
KIDSTUFF: Family Fun Day (1720 Meriweather Drive) Athens Area Realtors host a day of fun featuring a bounce house, face painting, games and more. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. FREE! leslie@athensarea realtors.com
KIDSTUFF: Family Day: Olympics (UGA Special Collections Library) Explore the exhibition “Beyond the ’96 Games” and craft an Olympic torch, enjoy a story time and more. 1–4 p.m. FREE! libs.uga.edu
LECTURES & LIT: Chautauqua Lecture Lyman Hall (Oconee County Library) Actor K. Ken Johnston gives a historical re-enactment presentation and Q&A as famous Georgia politician and physician Dr. Lyman Hall. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
OUTDOORS: Birding Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about birding basics on this two-mile hike. 9:30 a.m. $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Spring Forward 5K (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) A park ranger leads a moderate rated trail race. Registration & waiver required. 1:30 p.m. $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks. org/WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Creatures of the Night Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a night hike while using a black light to look for bio-fluorescent critters. 8 p.m. $5/ person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill Bridge
THEATER: One Man, Two Guvnors (Quinn Hall) Athens Creative Theatre (ACT) presents the Tony Award-winning comedy about a down-on-his-luck musician. Mar. 26–27, 7 p.m. Mar. 28, 1 p.m. & 7 p.m. $15. www.accgov.com/act
Sunday 29
ART: Artist Reception (ATHICA) The exhibition “Confluence IV” features works by young artists across all grade levels in Athens. 1–3 p.m. FREE! art.uga.edu
ART: Artist Reception (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Artist Jackie Dorsey’s paintings in the exhibition “Nature Escapes” will be on view. 2–4 p.m. FREE! botgarden.uga.edu
ART: Artist Reception (Athentic Brewing Co.) Greg Benson’s exhibition “Lands Left” features landscape works. 5–8 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com
COMEDY: Comedy Showcase (The Globe) Athens Comedy hosts themed and general showcases of local and regional comedians. Sundays, 9 p.m. www.athenscomedy.com
EVENTS: ShellFest (Bottleworks) Enjoy live music, raw and steamed oysters, and featured local cocktails, beer and wine in benefit of Georgia’s Shell to Shore nonprofit. 2–3 p.m. (VIP early entry). $150. 3–7 p.m. $100. www.shelltoshore. com
FILM: Backlight Student Film Festival (Morton Theatre) This
art around town
ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) “Lands Left” features landscape works by Greg Benson. Reception Mar. 29, 5–8 p.m. with live music from Bennie and the Jones. Through May.
ATHICA (675 Pulaski St. Ste. 1200) As part of Youth Art Month, a pop-up exhibition of works by Clarke County high school students will be on display through Mar. 31.
ATHICA@CINÉ Gallery (234 W Hancock Ave.) “Jon Swindler: Never Not New” features etchings, collaged prints and monotypes by Jon Swindler that were in various stages of completion now finalized with a new perspective. ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) Prompting artists to create the “wildest bathrooms in Athens,” artists Amanda Burk and Elinor Saragoussi designed installations for the Athenaeum bathrooms. Burk’s installation is titled “Mars: a color study,” and Saragoussi’s is titled “threshold (true): finding comfort in hidden worlds.”
DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) In conjunction with the CCSD Youth Art Month Art Exhibition, “Confluence IV” features works by young artists across all grade levels in Athens. Reception Mar. 29, 1–3 p.m. Through Mar. 31. • On the third floor landing, Derek Larson’s “Made in Mexico” features animated films produced in Mexico City between 1952–1956 by the studio Dibujos Animados S.A. • In the Margie E. West Gallery are animations by Derek Larson titled “Très Mall, Episodes 1–8” that are inspired by the decay of American shopping malls. • MFA candidate Phoebe-Agnès Mills’ paintings in “Ekstasis” consider how the spiritual might be sensed within the material world. • The 35th Annual Student Scientific and Medical Illustration Juried Exhibition features illustrators from UGA and Augusta University. • “the green glass door” is a collaboration by Jon Vogt’s digital printmaking class.
DONDERO’S KITCHEN (590 N. Milledge Ave.) Photography by Jennifer Keene featuring the symbolism of gravestone art and cemetery monuments will be on display through March. Framed prints available for donation to approved local charity at www.southerncemetery.com.
FOYER (135 Park Ave.) Curated by Jaime Bull, “5 o’clock ANYWHERE” features drawings by Neil Hancock inspired by the spirit and nostalgia of his New Orleans neighborhood. Opening reception Mar. 27, 5–7 p.m. Open by
showcase of student films features panels, screenings and awards. FREE! Mar. 28, 3–9 p.m. Mar. 29, 1–6 p.m. www.backlightfilmfestival. com
FILM: Tokusatsu Club (ATHICA) Screening of the 1971 Japanese kaiju fantasy film Gamera vs. Zigra 2:30 p.m. FREE! clubtoku@gmail. com
GAMES: SIM Race Sunday (ACC Library) Drive for fun or compete for fastest lap at the Suzuka Circuit. Ages 12 & up. Registration required. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens
KIDSTUFF: Hoppin’ Into Spring Party (The Meadow Montessori Play Studio) Visit with the Easter bunny, play spring-themed games and enjoy snack. Registration required. 3–4:30 p.m. $20. www. themeadowplaystudio.com
OUTDOORS: Creek Critters Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Experience hands-on stream ecology while hiking along Beaver Creek. 11 a.m. $5/person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastate parks.org/WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Fungi Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about local fungi on a guided walk. 1 p.m. $5/person, $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
PERFORMANCE: Boots Scootin’ Boogie: Athens Drag Brunch (Hendershots) A country music themed afternoon of drag entertainment. 11 a.m. $10 (show only). www.hendershotsathens.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
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 4 p.m. $28–50. www.classiccenter.com
appointment through May 17.
Monday 30
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 (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: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
Tuesday 31
CLASSES: Microsoft Excel Part 3 (ACC Library) This class builds on the tools and functions of Excel including more advanced functions. All skill levels welcome. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
COMEDY: Take This! Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) The troupe will perform an abridged improv version of Pirates of the Caribbean 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
FILM: España En Corto (Georgia Museum of Art) The 13th annual Spanish short film festival, including English subtitles for all films. Mar. 31 & Apr. 1, 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn
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. Through June 28. • “Shacks, Stories and Spirit: Beverly Buchanan’s Art of Home” is a concurrent exhibition with the Athenaeum 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.” 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. • On loan from the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art are 377 painted ceramic plates from Julie Green’s “The Last Supper” series inspired by death row inmates’ final meal requests. Through Aug. 16. • “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.
JITTERY JOE’S (297 E Broad St.) Whimsical paintings by Susan Pelham that are inspired by Magic Realism are on display through May.
LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) The 51st Juried Exhibition will take place through May 16 featuring 130 works by 91 artists selected by Michelle Yun Mapplethorpe of the Katonah Museum of Art in New York. • A new Lobby installation by artist and STEAM educator Maria Nissan, “18,443 Souls: A Metamorphosis of Coffee Culture,” features works inspired by the multicultural connections to coffee that are composed using coffee and tea filters touched by 18,443 people in Athens. Through May 8.
MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) “Nature Mirrored in Silk” features a series of hand-painted silk wall hangings by Athens-based artist Margaret Agner through Apr. 18.
MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL ARTS CENTER (434 South Main St., Madison) “Color Resonance: Gary Hudson in Full Hue” presents vibrant abstract artwork by Gary Hudson through Mar. 27.
OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) In the Main Gallery, Youth Art Month showcases works from local Oconee school district students from Mar. 20–Apr. 24. • In the Members Gallery, “Tiny Worlds” features miniature works by OCAF Member artists through Apr. 24.
new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
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: Bingo & Sip (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Play BINGO with a chance to win prizes. Every other Tuesday, 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenskava.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom
Athens
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
PERFORMANCE: UGA Opera in Bloom: Mansfield Park (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with an outdoor performance presented by UGA Opera Theatre and the Hugh Hodgson School of Music. Mar. 31 & Apr. 1, 7 p.m. $25. botgarden.uga.edu
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
SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Monroe Moccasins (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7 p.m. $28–50. www.classiccenter.com
Wednesday 1
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
FILM: España En Corto (Georgia Museum of Art) The 13th annual Spanish short film festival, including English subtitles for all films. Mar. 31 & Apr. 1, 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) After a swanky hot tub party filled with fashion models ends in tragedy, the guests are stalked by a maniac in Too Beautiful To Die. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/bloodeverywhere.athens
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunot trivia
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
PERFORMANCE: UGA Opera in Bloom: Mansfield Park (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with an outdoor performance presented by UGA Opera Theatre and the Hugh Hodgson School of Music. Mar. 31 & Apr. 1, 7 p.m. $25. botgarden.uga.edu f
THE OLD PAL (1320 Prince Ave.) Graphic artist Kalie Boyne (Kalez) has works on view.
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave.) “NatureEscapes” features hyper-realistic watercolor works of nature by Athens-based artist Jackie Dorsey. Artist reception Mar. 29, 2 p.m. Through Apr. 19. • “Reimagine: Contemporary Georgia Artists” presents 20 works from Georgia’s State Art Collection alongside pieces by local and regional artists including painting, ceramics, fiber, sculpture, photography and works on paper. Presented by the Georgia Council for the Arts as part of a statewide touring exhibition through May 29.
STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Steffen Thomas Through the Eyes of Young Adults” is on display in the Educational Gallery. Changes quarterly.
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. • “Fashioning the Classic Bride: The Life and Career of Anne Barge” features 33 dresses from the UGA alumna. Through July. • “Beyond the ’96 Games: Atlanta’s Olympic Legacy” features an original torch from the opening relay and other authentic memorabilia. Through October.
UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (230 River Rd.) In the Lobby Gallery on the mezzanine level outside Ramsey Concert Hall are large-scale paintings by Christopher Hocking with themes of pop culture, history, literature and more.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP (780 Timothy Rd.) “Claire and Bob’s Home Collection” is on view in the Claire and Robert Clements Gallery. 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. • The Firefly Trail photo contest winners will be displayed through Mar. 26.
bulletin board & classifieds
BULLETIN BOARD: Listings from nonprofits, community resources and free opportunities. Print deadline is THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email calendar@flagpole.com.
CLASSIFIEDS: Rates are $10/individual * $14/real estate * $16/business. Deadline to place ads is FRIDAY at 10 a.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email class@flagpole.com or call 706-549-0301.
Classifieds
HELP WANTED (Full-Time) Habitat ReStores. Full time, Tue.–Sat. Dock and sales floor at furniture/appliance store; heavy lifting required; register experience preferred; seeking organized, friendly, reliable applicants; background check required; equal opportunity employer. Download application at AthensHabitat.com/ employment, bring completed application to 4125 Atlanta Hwy., Athens. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Tue.–Sat. HELP WANTED (Part-Time) Join our growing team of well-paid, motivated, hardworking individuals. Junk South offers starting pay of $15/hr–$20/hr + Tips. Learn more about Junk South at www.junksouth. com and text us at 706-424-4389.
HELP WANTED (Seasonal) Summer Opportunity - Nationwide FF&E Installation. Hiring Project Manager w/starting pay of $300–$400/day. Online www.classiccityinstallation. com, email rnichols@classiccity installation.com or text/call 470866-8777.
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
Lily (60611859) Lily came to the shelter with seven other dogs and a litter of six pups, so she’s no stranger to big families. This sweet girl would do great in any home and is eager to share her joy and hugs!
pets and many
MUSIC (Instruction) Now offering electronic music lessons. Specializing in Ableton Live, VCV Rack, vintage synths, and modular systems. Instagram: @microsound athens 706-495-6416
MUSIC (Musicians Wanted) BAND: 20 yr. old male guitar player looks to form or join an alternative rock band. Check out my originals and DM me on IG @gmarkey2024
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
NOTICES (Messages) Wooking to tie the knot? Found your twu wuv? Pwiest avaiwable for mawwiage cewemonies. Call 706-357-4444 or visit ClassicCenter.com/Princess Bride for more information.
REAL ESTATE (Apartment for Rent) 1 BR/BA downtown. Walk to class. On the cobblestone street at ‘The Tree That Owns Itself.’ Very unique pink marble floors, DW, laundry room, garden area overlooking Dwntn. All utils. Included. Avail. now. $995/mon. 706-546-1900 Anytime 24/7
REAL ESTATE (Art Studio) Artist studio space for lease downtown. Not apartment. 159 North Jackson St. Approx. 400 s/f. Electricity/ water included. $400/mon. Contact Michael at 706-201-6058 or mginn2872@aol.com
REAL ESTATE (Room for Rent) Room for rent w/private BA. Located in Watkinsville. $1200/mon all inclusive. Graduate student preferred. Call 706-286-0138 for more information.
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Are you ready for spring? We can help! Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible and native gardens for your school, home or business! 706395-5321
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in low-maintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@ gmail.com or call 631-903-4365.
SERVICES (Support Group) Pet Loss and Grief Circle. A free in-person semi-monthly gathering to support those grieving the loss of an animal companion. Visit AthensPetGrief Support.org 706-296-6893
Arts
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 ACTORS, ARTISTS & VENDORS (Hauntfest) Applications now open for artists, actors, performers and vendors for the fourth annual April Ghouls event. Deadline Apr. 8. Event Apr. 11–12. www. hauntfest.net/vendor-info CALL FOR ART (Various Locations) Visit www.flagpole.com/bulletin board for ongoing open art calls. CALL FOR ART (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking art submissions for upcoming Pet Portrait Exhibition. Artists of all skill levels and ages that meet guidelines are invited to submit up to two art pieces. Drop off May 29–30. On view June 18–Aug. 29. www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse
CALL FOR ART (OCAF, Watkinsville) Now accepting submissions for the 31st annual SouthWorks National Juried Art Exhibition. Juried by Beth Malone. Awards include a $2,500 prize Best-in-Show and $2,500 Prize Member’s Choice. Deadline Apr. 4. Submit up to three pieces. www.ocaf.com/exhibitions
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Athens Pride & Queer Collective) ATHICA is accepting submissions for upcoming exhibit benefiting The Athens Pride & Queer Collective GenderAffirming Care Grant. $5 fee per piece. Submission deadline Mar. 26. www.athenspride.org
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Circulating Stamp Project) Take part in an
Catnelius (60042754) Meet Catnelius! This adorable orange with the sweetest amber eyes is two years old and in the market for a new place to call home. Consider adopting or fostering little Catnelius today.
Oreo (55901989)
Oreo’s friends call her “a happy, fun beauty who never meets a stranger.” She’s an energetic girl who would fit in best with a family that loves being outdoors just as much as she does.
interactive experience to create a limited-edition postcard while visiting multiple art venues across separate participating venues including ATHICA, Georgia Museum of Art, Lyndon House Arts Center and Winterville Cultural Center Gallery. Through May 31. www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse
CALL FOR ARTISTS, VENDORS & WORKSHOP INSTRUCTORS (Marigold Fiber Fest) Now accepting applications for instructors to lead a variety of workshops centered around fiber crafts. Deadline May 1. Event held Nov. 14. www. instagram.com/marigoldfiberfest
CALL FOR POETRY (Oconee County Library, Watkinsville) Seeking poets of all ages to read their original works for National Poetry Month on Apr. 4. Contact jmitchell@athens library.org to sign up.
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper. enagementcoordinator@athenshc. org
CALL FOR VENDORS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) Applications for artists, crafters, community services and more. The 2026 Marigold Market season will run Saturdays from Apr. 11–Nov. 21. www.marigoldcollectivewinterville.com
COMMUNITY TOURS (Georgia Museum of Art) A variety of tours open to the public including “Student Perspectives” which runs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays throughout the month. www.georgia museum.org
LIFE MODELING 101 (OCAF, Watkinsville) Male and female art models explain the ins and outs of modeling for artists. From portraits to clothed to nude, including where to work and expected pay. May 2 at 10 a.m. $15. Preregistration required. www.drawathens.org
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 (Georgia Children’s Choir) GCC serves singers in grades 2–12. Auditions for
placement across five ensembles currently available for all skill levels. www.georgiachildrenschorus. org/about/audition
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
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
CLASSES, HIKES & PADDLES (Watson Mill State Park, Comer) The park offers a variety of events including “Introduction to iNaturalist & Merlin,” morning and evening kayak sessions, firebuilding classes, various educational hikes including “A Bridge to the Past,” “Tree ID,” “Homestead Hike” and more. Parking fee/pass required for all events. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
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 & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including ESL (Tuesdays and Thursdays), Knit Lits Knitting (Thursdays) and more.
CLASSES, PROGRAMS & TOURS (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Various ongoing weekly events including Guided Plant Walk (Tuesdays–Fridays), Porcelain and Decorative Arts Tour (Tuesdays), Free Sketch (Fridays) and more. botgarden.uga.edu
CLASSES & 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.athens landtrust.org/classes-events
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). $10 drop in. timbathens@gmail.com, www. timbathens.com
CUBAN SALSA LESSONS (El Carretonero) SALSAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced) and 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10 drop in. www.SALS AthensDancing@gmail.com
DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/myrec
FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfreeschool on Instagram.
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. athens_ga_figure_ skating_club
VARIOUS ONGOING CLASSES (Winterville Cultural Center, Winterville) The Basics of Crocheting (Thursdays), Yoga in the Gallery (Tuesdays and Wednesdays), Tai Chi (Wednesdays) and more. www. wintervillecenter.com
Help Out
ATHENS FEED MY STARVING
CHILDREN (Stegeman Coliseum) Volunteers needed to pack meals. Sign up for two-hour shifts. Event held May 15–17. give.fmsc.org/ athens
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. 706-8500387 or 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
MICROCHIP SCANNING STATIONS
(Multiple Locations) Connect lost pets with their owners. Available 24 hours. Located at ACC Animals Services, Memorial Park Dog Park and Southeast Clarke Park. Instructions provided at each location.
MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUNTEERS (Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living) Seeking volunteers to assist a nonprofit
agency that serves individuals living with disabilities throughout a 10-country area of Northeastern Georgia. 706-850-4025, dmyers@ multiplechoices.us
PET FOOD PANTRY (Animal Services Adoption Center) The Animal Services community pet food pantry provides pet food to ACC residents at no cost. Donations always welcome. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sundays, 12–3 p.m. www.accgov.com/adoptioncenter
SEEKING DONATIONS (The Cottage)
Seeking donations of single-serving, non-perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-off please call 706-546-1133, ext 223.
SEEKING DONATIONS & VOLUNTEERS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Animal service sessions run Monday through Friday; training session required. Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and rags. Donations can be dropped off at the door after hours. www. accgov.com/animalservices
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
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.acc gov.com/trs VOLUNTEER NETWORK (Community Works, Watkinsville) A nonprofit organization that connects volunteers of all ages to events, resources and training opportunities. CWorksOC@gmail.com
Kidstuff
CALL FOR ART (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Seeking original art submissions from students 9th grade and above attending school full- or part-time in Georgia. Winning art may be used for promotional materials and merchandise. Prizes include $1,000 for 1st place, $500 for 2nd place and $250 for 3rd place. Application deadline Mar. 27. www.botgarden.uga.edu/ student-art-competition
CALL FOR BANDS (Ram Jam) Seeking local middle and high school bands to compete for prizes including inclusion on the AthFest lineup. Proceeds benefit Nuçi’s Space. Application deadline Apr. 12. Event held May 2, 3–8 p.m. cenghauser@donovanathens.org, www.nuci.org
CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly
events including LEGO Mania (Wednesdays), Storytime with Miss Harli (Mondays) and more. www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly events including children’s yoga (Tuesdays), “Story Time” and “Tween Cocoa Club” (Wednesdays), and more. www.athens library.org/oconee
GUITAR CLUB (Lay Park Community Center) Monday classes run through Apr. 27. Ages 8–11, 5:30 p.m. Ages 12–17, 6:30 p.m. $10. Registration required. www. accgovga.myrec.com
SPRING & SUMMER CAMP (Canopy Studios) Registration for a variety of day camp dates for grades K-12 is now available. www.canopy studio.org/class-schedule/camps
SUMMER CAMP (Nuçi’s Space) A production, engineering, mixing and live sound curriculum added to the two week summer Camp Amped sessions. Registration now open. Financial aid available. www.nuci. org/camp
SUMMER CAMP (Athens Area Humane Society) Registration is now open for “Humane Heroes” and “Junior Vet” summer camps in June & July. Ages 6–14. www.athens humanesociety.org/summer-camp
Word on the Street
CITY TOURS (Historic Athens Welcome Center) A variety of guided tours available including a daily shuttle tour, walking tour of the downtown area and local music tour. Schedule in advance. www. athenswelcomecenter.com
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
SEVENTH GENERATION (No. 3 Railroad Street, Arnoldsville) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts various gatherings on Sundays, 11 a.m. 706-340-7134
SUMMER JOBS (ACCGov Leisure Services) Now hiring for more than 100 summer positions including camp counselors, counselors in training, lifeguards and more. $15.60–$17.94 an hour. www. accgov.com/jobs
VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA) Seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive. www.vhsordie.com
Missing Something?
MORE LISTINGS (Online) Find the Bulletin Board at www.flagpole. com/bulletinboard for ongoing open art calls, support group information and other resources that are available on a continuous basis. f
If your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe Our hotline is confidential, and counseling is Get your life back. Get help.
706-543-3331
Hotline, 24 hours/day
If your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and friends, and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are involved with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe for help. Our hotline is confidential, and counseling is free. Get your life back. Get help.
Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia
If your partner objects when you use limits your everyday contact with family and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, confrontations, you need to step back another look. How can you cope once with a controlling partner? Call Project Our hotline is confidential, and counseling Get your life back. Get help.
706-543-3331
Hotline, 24 hours/day
Linea de crisis, las 24 horas
FLUKE!
25 YEARS OF THE MINI-COMICS & ZINE FESTIVAL
By Libba Beaucham arts@flagpole.com
OnSaturday, Mar. 28, the 23rd “mostly-annual” FLUKE! MiniComics & Zine Festival will be held at Live Wire with over 60 exhibitors from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Starting in 2002, FLUKE! is one of Georgia’s longest-running events dedicated to independent comics, zines and self-publishing. In this interview, coorganizer Robert Newsome shares the festival’s origins in Athens, its connections to Flagpole and what attendees of all ages can expect this year.
FP: FLUKE! began 25 years ago and, aside from a few years off due to COVID, it’s continued here in Athens. Tell us how it all began. Robert Newsome: The short answer is a terrible answer, and that answer is 9/11. Every year in the DC area, there’s something called the Small Press Expo (SPX) which is primarily a comics-based event for small press, independent comics. In 2001, it was canceled after September 11th. There were people in the Southeast who had been planning to go to show off what they’d been working on. Obviously they didn’t get to go. So as a stopgap, a guy named Todd Bak organized something at Tasty World in January of 2002 for people who were basically trying to go to SPX. It was called FLUKE! because it was supposed to be a one- time thing.
a space that is close to that store. We want the attendees to go there, to take their work there, to be stocked on the shelves there. If you look at the history of the Athens music scene, there’s always been a strong visual art component to that music scene. People have always been making the flyers, doing the album covers. And along with that, there’s a history of self-publishing in Athens. Flagpole itself started as a selfpublished fanzine that wanted to document the local music scene. I think there has always been this undercurrent of selfpublishing and comics here.
FP: What’s your audience like for FLUKE? Is it mostly other artists? Collectors?
FP: How did you get involved?
RN: I was there. I’d been making zines, and so I showed up. My friend Patrick Dean and I asked how we could help. We wound up working the door at Tasty World, and we liked it, and so we talked to Bak and said, ‘Hey, are you going to do this again next year?’ He’s like, ‘Oh, wasn’t really planning on it.’ And we said if you do this next year, we’d like to help.
[Editor’s note: Patrick Dean, who went on to coorganize FLUKE! with Newsome for nearly two decades, was a beloved figure in the Athens arts community with a comic strip that ran in the Flagpole for nearly a decade. Dean was diagnosed with ALS in 2018, but he continued to create comics, even learning to draw using eyegaze technology when he could no longer use his hands. He died in 2021. An archive of his Flagpole comics is available at the Digital Library of Georgia.]
FP: Why do you think FLUKE! has been so successful in Athens specifically?
RN: FLUKE! exists, primarily, because of Bizarro-Wuxtry, the comic shop downtown… It cannot be overstated how important that store is as a cultural entity… It’s important for FLUKE! to exist physically in
RN: We get a lot of people, mostly from the Southeast… There’s a big scene at Savannah College of Art and Design, because they have a sequential art program. One thing that we really like to do is be the first show that a lot of those students are a part of, because we want them to have the experience of making their work and showing it off in kind of a low- stakes environment.
We’ve had kids there, you know, under the age of 10 who are making drawings and folding it… They go to this place where everybody’s doing that, even the grown-ups, and they want to get in on the action.
FP: What is it about small print and comics that appeals to people?
RN: I think people are kind of getting sick of the internet… I see an increasing desire for people to take back their own expressions of things they love away from these big companies or pre-established channels for it.
FP: Any plans to grow the festival?
RN: I’m wary of trying to push growth onto this too hard, because it’s a fragile thing. I’m too wary of disassembling something to see how it works and not being able to put it back together again. FLUKE! will end when we do it and nobody shows up…. They keep making us do this every year. They keep showing up… It exists because it’s something that people want, and we are very fortunate for that. f
WHAT: FLUKE! Mini-Comics & Zine Festival
WHEN: Saturday, Mar 28, 10 a m –5 p m WHERE: Live Wire HOW MUCH: $2
Edited by Margie E. Burke
each
and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
