📱 Athens Gets Federal Alert System (for your phone)

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Okay, so we are BLOWN away by how many people have signed up for the Athens Scoop Dinner Club so far.

We’re so inspired! If you’ve been thinking about joining, now’s the perfect time to grab your seat at the table.

How it works:

You just show up.

Dinners are happening in Athens, GA, where we’re gathering small groups for meaningful conversation and great company - all around one table.

The date: January 21st at 7:00 PM

If you’ve been craving conversations with substance (the kind that remind you why community matters) this is for you. Spots are limited.

Any questions? Just reply. See you there.

Lady Ray is your guide. ✨

For 20 years, Lady Ray has been helping Athens locals gain clarity through tarot and pendulum readings. She creates sacred jewelry infused with intention - not just pretty pieces, but tools for your journey. Plus, her personalized herbal blends for baths, teas, and oils support your transformation from the inside out.​

It's "Not Your Ordinary Spiritual Practice." 👉 Discover your path here

Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

The Gist: Athens-Clarke County planners voted 5-1 to deny rezoning for a 72-room luxury hotel at the historic UGA President's House. Despite Capstone Properties downsizing from their original 116-room plan, neighbors cited concerns about traffic, stormwater, and inadequate parking.

Why It Matters: The commission's February vote could determine whether this 1856 Greek Revival mansion becomes a boutique hotel or finds another path forward.

What's Next: The full commission votes February 3, with public comment sessions January 20 and February 3.

Read more here.

The Gist: ACC's 911 center can now send IPAWS emergency alerts directly to all mobile devices in the county, including visitors. The federal system supplements UGA Alert and will reach anyone physically in Athens during emergencies.

Why It Matters: Life-threatening situations can now reach your phone automatically, no opt-in required.

Read more here.

The Gist: UGA welcomed students back Monday for spring 2026 classes under a new schedule format. Classes now run 55 minutes (MWF) or 80 minutes (TR) with 20-minute breaks between periods.

Why It Matters: The revised schedule affects campus traffic patterns, parking availability, and downtown lunch rush timing through May.

Read more here.

🎉 Athens MLK Jr. Parade & Music Festival | Downtown Athens | Athens | 1/19 | More Celebrate a decade of justice with parade, live music, and family activities.

🎸 Bit Brigade | Georgia Theatre | Athens | 1/17 | More Rockers speed-run classic Nintendo games while playing live soundtracks.

🎭 Space Prom | 40 Watt Club | Athens | 1/24 | More Cosmic-themed dance party celebrating interstellar vibes and community connection.

🍷 Athens Scoop Dinner Club | Athens | More Connect with strangers over curated dining experiences across local restaurants.

🎸 Sister Hazel | Georgia Theatre | Athens | 1/23 | More Florida rock legends deliver feel-good alt-rock and acoustic singalongs.

🎸 ZOSO - Led Zeppelin Tribute | Georgia Theatre | Athens | 1/22 | More Ultimate Zeppelin experience recreating classic hard rock with precision energy.

🎸 Barnhouse, Lucky Duck & Wax Monkey | 40 Watt Club | Athens | 1/23 | More Triple-bill showcasing Athens' vibrant indie rock and experimental music scene.

🎸 Rock the Ark Benefit Concert | Georgia Theatre | Athens | 1/24 | More Support local eviction prevention with Wim Tapley & the Cannons.

🎸 The Band Solstice, Landline & The Goodjoys | 40 Watt Club | Athens | 1/15 | More Athens indie rock triple-header featuring local emerging talent and energy.

🎸 John Wood, Strickland & Florence Cardigan | 40 Watt Club | Athens | 1/16 | More Americana and roots music showcase with heartfelt storytelling and twang.

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