🗳️ 15,000 votes pour in for Athens special election

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Known for its elevated yet approachable take on Italian cuisine, ZZ & Simone’s brings a touch of coastal European charm right to the heart of Five Points. Whether you are craving their famous Rigatoni Alla Vodka or fresh seafood dishes, the inviting dining room provides an enticing and comfortable atmosphere perfect for both fast-paced meals or leisurely gatherings. It is an effortless recommendation for anyone looking to impress a date or enjoy a high-quality dinner with friends.

Learn more here.

Hello Athens!
I’m Taylor, the creator and owner of Taylor Made Crafts 2020 LLC, where every stitch is crafted with intention, confidence, and care. I specialize in handmade crochet pieces—from cozy hats to clothing, accessories, game-day wear, and custom designs—all made to help you feel seen, supported, and stylish in your everyday life. My work is about more than the product; it’s about the vibe, the story, and the connection woven into every loop

I’m excited to share that I will be a vendor at Indie South’s Holiday Hooray (December 13, 2025 10:00 am-5:00pm, December 14, 2025; 10:00am-3:00pm), one of Athens’ most loved holiday markets celebrating local artists, makers, and small businesses. I’ll be there with a curated selection of handmade pieces—including items supporting the Stitch for a Purpose fund—ready for gift-giving, self-care season, and everyone who loves shopping small with intention. If you’re looking for something unique, heartfelt, and handcrafted right here in our community, I can’t wait for you to stop by.

Thank you for welcoming me and my craft into Athens. I look forward to connecting, creating, and continuing to stitch with purpose—one beautiful piece at a time.

Want to see more? Check out her Instagram.

The Gist: Over 15,000 Athens-Clarke County voters in Georgia House District 121 can cast early ballots through November 26 for the December 9 special election to fill former Rep. Marcus Wiedower's vacant seat. Advance voting locations include the Elections Department office, with hours running through the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

Why It Matters: This special election determines local representation in the state legislature, and the advance voting deadline falls on November 26.

Learn more here.

The Gist: Athens-Clarke County Animal Services launched its Couch Crashers program, asking residents to temporarily foster shelter dogs from November 21 through December 1. The initiative gives dogs a break from kennel life during Thanksgiving, reduces stress, and boosts adoption chances. The shelter provides all supplies.

Why It Matters: Short-term fostering helps overwhelmed shelters while giving local families a way to support animal welfare without permanent commitment.

Learn more here.

The Gist: Georgia offensive lineman Nyier Daniels was dismissed from the team Monday after his Sunday arrest on 13 charges, including three felonies. Police say the redshirt freshman reached speeds of 150 mph on I-85 while fleeing officers, with two younger siblings in his car. He faces cruelty to children charges for endangering them during the chase that began in Commerce.

Why It Matters: This marks another driving incident for UGA's program, which has faced over 20 such cases since the 2023 fatal crash that killed offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy.

What's Next: Daniels remains in Jackson County Jail on $21,000 bond. His mother was also arrested and charged with felony fleeing after allegedly trying to block police during the chase.

Learn more here.

✨ Winter WonderLights | State Botanical Garden of Georgia | Athens | 11/28-12/05 (select nights) | More Half-mile trail of twinkling lights, s'mores, hot cocoa, and holiday magic.

🎪 Cirque Dreams Holidaze | Classic Center Theatre | Athens | 12/04-12/05 | More Family-friendly acrobatic holiday spectacular blending circus arts with festive entertainment.

😂 Unteachables Comedy Tour | 40 Watt Club | Athens | 12/05 | More Quick-witted improv and sketch comedy for a fun night out.

🎭 Cirque Dreams Holidaze | Classic Center Theatre | Athens | 12/04-12/05 | More Acrobatic holiday spectacle blending Broadway flair with circus arts magic.

🏀 UGA Women's Basketball vs Kansas | Stegeman Coliseum | Athens | 11/28 | More Championship hoops with the Lady Bulldogs taking on a major program.

🏀 UGA Men's Basketball vs Tennessee Tech | Stegeman Coliseum | Athens | 11/29 | More Dawgs basketball action in a rivalry matchup at home.

🎸 Corey Smith | Georgia Theatre | Athens | 12/05 | More Hometown country singer-songwriter celebrating authentic Southern storytelling and fan favorites.

🎵 LIGHTWATCH | 40 Watt Club | Athens | 12/05 | More Indie rock vibes at Athens' legendary music venue.

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