Category Archives: MOTS

Business, MOTS

Boutique Business in Downtown Athens

Attracting customers to boutiques in downtown Athens, Georgia, is highly dependent on the boutique’s ability to attract customer attention and provide positive shopping experiences to retain them, according to an informal poll recently conducted by University of Georgia students currently enrolled in Journalism 3190.

The majority of the dozen individuals interviewed stated that they began shopping at their preferred boutiques because the displays caught their attention.

Savannah Guethner, a sophomore at the University of Georgia, said she found her favorite store, Community, while “just walking around.” She said that the display caught her eye by showcasing unique items as well as advertising local fashion designers.

Savannah Guenther, a student at UGA

While the initial attraction of customers to a boutique relies on the displays, keeping customers requires customer service. Interviewees rated their favorite stores’ customer service around an average of 9.14 out of 10. Many highlighted the importance of customer service in their shopping experience.

“They greeted me as soon as I walked in the door,” said Julie Walker, 45. The staff in her preferred store “explained how everything was in the store.”

A polite and friendly greeter was a notable quality many mentioned during their interviews.

“They are super helpful, but not overly annoying,” said Ivey Thompson, a third year student at UGA, when asked why she rated Cheeky Peach a nine out of 10 for customer service. “They’ll show you things you might like or what to pair together or stuff in your price range.”

Cheeky Peach on Twitter: “Check out our denim collection and see how CP wears denim!Shop the collection here: https://t.co/OIGoTJaQ4F pic.twitter.com/rHlHeGapIo / Twitter”

Check out our denim collection and see how CP wears denim!Shop the collection here: https://t.co/OIGoTJaQ4F pic.twitter.com/rHlHeGapIo

When asked about if they believed stereotypes existed about boutiques and whether or not their shopping experiences supported these claims, almost every interviewee mentioned pricing.

Boutiques tend to offer better customer service and be more expensive, said Thompson, who added, “In Athens I feel like the stereotypes are matched.” That view was shared by Ashton Morrison. “Some of them are a little overpriced, always have been in my opinion,” said Morrison, a University of Georgia graduate who now works in a nearby town.

Gitte Thrysoe, on left, and Samantha Becker, on right, are also two students interviewed from UGA.

For others, pricing was less of an issue because of the type of products the stores carried.

“The prices are a bit more than I would like,” said Guethner, but explained that the handmade and detailed work of products in her favorite boutique made the prices worth it.

Many of the graduate students or non-students said that some stores catered to younger individuals.

“Some of them are a little sorority-ish,” said Morrison.

“A lot of the boutiques I don’t go into because I see them as being for younger students,” said Gabrielle Fuentes, a graduate student.

Culture, MOTS

Favorite Spots in the Classic City

Athens, Georgia, offers plenty to do, and perhaps that’s why every person polled by JOUR 3190 responded differently when asked to name a favorite place to relax or spend time in the Classic City.

Student journalists from the University of Georgia polled 12 Athens residents on their favorite Athens “hidden gems,” or places to occupy their time, on a Monday afternoon in the downtown area.

Liz Habersham of Savannah, Georgia likes spending time in the reading room of the Main Library

University of Georgia students’ answers emphasized locations on or near the campus—specifically some of the best study spots. For first-year student Liz Habersham of Savannah, Georgia, the reading room in the Main Library “is always really calming.”

The libraries on the UGA campus are not only utilized by students and staff, but also by visitors with library privileges from the Athens-Clarke County library system according to a UGA library employee.

As an ambassador for Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, Joe Vaughn, a master’s student from McDonough, spends time across the University’s campus on the DW Brooks Mall area.

When not working on schoolwork, however, one of Vaughn’s favorite places is the Iron Horse. It is “definitely somewhere I take everyone who comes to visit Athens,” he said.

The Iron Horse, while today in Watkinsville, originally stood on campus before being mocked by students and moved to its new home in Greene County, according to Online Athens.

Other outdoor locations that are not as well include Memorial Park and Sandy Creek, according to 52-year-old Ken Whittington of Anderson, South Carolina. Working for the University of Georgia, Whittington also spends much of his time on campus, but prefers being “anywhere outdoors.”

Hidden behind Sanford Stadium sits the Jackson Street Cemetery. Anna Powell of Gainseville, Florida said that the cemetery is her favorite secret site in Athens. The cemetery, positioned right beside the 92,000-seat football stadium, is an area of peace and tranquility among the chaos of football every Autumn Saturday.

Stewart Odenhal, who is “Seventy-nine and eleven-twelths” years old, prefers spending time in his own home rather than anywhere else in Athens

Perhaps the least known nature spot in Athens is the “secret waterfall on Macon highway” said third-year marketing major Kalai Willis. Willis described the waterfall as set back from the road behind the shrubs “before Athens Ridge.”

The number of responses centered on outdoor locations reflects how important nature is for Athens residents. Because the city is also characterized by stable, warm weather most of the year, Athenians have the opportunity to spend more time comfortably outside than residents of other cities of similar size.

Also well hidden is the “abandoned denim factory north of town” where first-year horticulture major Justin Garner goes to “blow off steam and just kind of be angry at the world.” Garner said that he likes the seclusion of the factory because “not many people know of it.”

For the person who doesn’t identify with the likings of any of the other interviewees, perhaps Stewart Odendhal, who is “seventy-nine and eleven-twelths” is most relatable. This “planetary citizen,” didn’t offer advice for where others might want to spend their time in Athens, but said his absolute favorite place in the city is his own house.

MOTS, Sports

Biker Safety in Athens

Sharing the roads of Athens, GA can be challenging for bikers and drivers alike, according to data from interviews conducted by University of Georgia students over the past two weeks.

Twelve students were interviewed about their thoughts regarding bike lanes and safety for both cyclists and drivers. Several students voiced frustration with the size of the streets and the aggression of drivers. However, some were content with the status of cyclist safety.

“Generally I feel safe, meaning there’s always room for improvement,” said Jim Stradley, 51, who manages The Hub Bicycles in Athens, GA. As far as cycling goes, Stradley suggested cyclists “give space when appropriate and take space when it’s possible.”

Echoing a need for improvement, Jaico Celka, a sophomore from Suwanee, GA said, “I personally would be nervous to ride a bike in Athens. I feel like a lot of cars think they own the road more than bicyclists do.”

In Sept. 2016, a University of Georgia graduate student was killed and two others were injured while biking when struck by a drunk driver, according to a Red & Black article.

Citizens in Athens were angered as this incident was not the first of its kind.

“I would say this is infuriating and is happening too much,” said Athens attorney David Crowe. “We have a tight knit cycling community in Athens and on the group rides I do, we are always obeying the rules of the road and trying to be good stewards.”

Students interviewed expressed similar sentiments concerning the need for increased safety for cyclists.

“Drivers, like while they’re in the city, should be more consciously aware,” said Nick Johnson, a sophomore sports management major from Lilburn.

According to an article by the Red & Black, Athens-Clarke County has the highest amount of bike-car collisions in the state of Georgia.

Data collected by Georgia Bikes and the University of Georgia shows that Athens is the only city where the fault of the accident more often falls on the driver of the vehicle rather than the biker.

Bailey Smith, Junior International Affairs Major

When asked how she felt on bikers affecting her safety as a driver, Bailey Smith, junior international affairs major from Rocky Mount, Carolina said that the concern was, “not so much my safety as much as like theirs.”

Blake Cleary, Junior Computer Science Major

 

Smith discussed the difficulty of driving through neighborhoods and how cars take up the full lanes pushing cyclists in difficult positions.

Not all students are cyclists, but sensitivity towards those that ride bikes seems to be increasing.

“My computing ethics professor actually bikes everywhere and is a big advocate for bikes in the Athens area,” said Blake Cleary, junior computer science major from Rowell, GA. “So he’s kind of given me a bigger heart for biking in Athens.”

 

 

 

 

Sources

In person interviews with Laura Allen, Ashley Gruber, Cara Silcox, William Lanzilotta, Brian Molley, Jim Stradley, Bailey Smith, Blake Cleary, Wilson Alexander, Jaico Celka, Daniyal Tahir, Nick Johnson, Cole Wilson, Kemani Miles, Lee Jourdan.

UGA graduate researcher killed, two other cyclists injured by DUI suspect in east Athens

A University of Georgia graduate researcher was killed and two other bicyclists were injured Monday evening in east Athens by a suspected impaired driver. Ashley Block, 25, who was a graduate stude…

http://www.redandblack.com/athensnews/athens-clarke-county-works-to-protect-safety-of-cyclists/article_1d13ff7e-cbb7-11e5-8b64-c3fdfe8f72b4.html

Lifestyle, MOTS

Date Night in the Classic City

Whether you’re planning to spend Valentine’s Day with your crush, significant other or just some pals, University of Georgia students have plenty of creative ideas for the perfect date in Athens, according to an informal poll conducted by JOUR 3190 last week.

Of the dozen students surveyed, eight suggested a restaurant, although the specific recommendations varied.

Kaitlyn Hemstreet, a junior marketing student from Macon, said she loves the weekly dates she has with her boyfriend, which they call “Sushi Sunday.”

Kaitlyn Hemstreet

“We go to Ru San’s in Beechwood,” said Hemstreet. “We go to the gym, do crunches right there and then we go after,” Her favorite is the Suki roll, which includes snow crab, avocado and salmon.

Anjelique Simmons, a fourth year German and linguistics major from Stone Mountain, suggested going to see a comedy show with some friends at Rashe’s Cuisine. The Jamaican restaurant occasionally hosts comedians who are not afraid to take jabs at the audience members. Simmons laughed and said she couldn’t repeat any of the jokes that were made.

Julia Dunlap, a junior Spanish and international affairs major from Peachtree City, said she thinks Mama’s Boy would be the perfect place to go out to eat because of the cute but casual environment and their legendary biscuits. “Breakfast dates are the best dates,” Dunlap said.

Katie Kirkland, a sophomore wildlife major from Fayetteville, and her boyfriend Sam Perryman, a sophomore finance major from Cumming, suggested going to Five Guys. Kirkland raved about the grilled cheese, which is made with two inverted hamburger buns. In addition to the food, Five Guys’ location on a busy corner makes it the perfect spot to people watch while you eat or hang out downtown after your meal, Kirkland said.

If you’re not incredibly hungry, Ashleigh Proctor, a sophomore biology major from Augusta, recommended Ike & Jane Café and Bakery. “You can try a little dessert or something, get to know the person and…if they can hold a conversation,” said Proctor. She said she likes the intimate, laidback atmosphere, which she said creates, “a nice place to talk.”

If sitting at a dinner date is not your style, Callie Hood, a third year linguistics and international affairs major from Buchanan, said going to the State Botanical Garden in Athens would be a great activity. “I feel like that’s a cool place to walk around and get to know a person,” Hood said. “I also feel like it’d be less awkward than trying to go and make conversation over dinner.”

For those who are more artistically inclined, Karen Mejia, a senior advertising major from Norcross, said ARTini’s would be a cute place to go for a friend date. This unique activity involves taking a painting class while adult beverages are available for sale.

Sven Leicher, a junior economics major from Atlanta, mentioned the location of a field near the Jittery Joe’s roaster where people fly their drones overhead. “You can get coffee and stuff like that at the same time,” he said. “That was the first time I went [out] with my girlfriend, before we dated.” 

Gunnar Weger

Gunnar Weger, a senior finance major from Honolulu, said his perfect date would be going ice skating in the Classic Center, an activity he did often in the winters of his childhood in Washington, D.C. “It just brings back very fond memories. Makes me feel young — younger,” Weger said.

MOTS, News

An Athens Perspective on Growing Social Activism after the Election

Following the recent election, political activism in Athens, Georgia has not slowed, according to an informal poll conducted by JOUR 3190.

All of the dozen interview respondents said they were at least as politically active now as before the election—and in some cases more politically aware.

When asked if they voted in the presidential election in November, three of the 12 interviewed said they did not.

Amelia Grace Wolfe, a 19-year-old UGA student said she was out of the country during the election, but also “didn’t want to be ignorant” while voting.

Katie Morgan, 20-year-old student at UGA

Another Athens resident, Ike Astuti from Indonesia, said she was not a citizen so she could not vote.

Although Astuti did not vote, she expressed a unique opinion when asked how she felt about the demonstrations against the Trump administration and said though the policies protested did not directly affect her, it was very common to see disagreement among citizens and the government.

She said that both, the citizens and the government, have to come from a place of understanding in order for progress to be made.

According to the poll conducted, only three of the 12 interviewed said they became more politically active after the election.

Riley King, a 25-year-old Athens resident, was concerned about the impact of the protests.

King said, “Demonstrations are great, but they lose their purpose if they don’t cause any actual change,” but continued to say that he still believes protests should happen.

“It’s important to challenge what you oppose…one person has very little power. A lot of people have a lot,” said Keaton Law, a political science and history major at the University of Georgia.

Law said he participated in the late January and early February Atlanta Women’s March, Atlanta airport protests and the Immigrants March in Athens.

Tyra Roberts, a 19-year-old finance student at UGA did not participate in any demonstrations but said, “Prior to this election, I feel like a lot of people weren’t really engaged in politics.”

“I think we’re realizing if we don’t use our voice and actually speak out, this is what can happen,” said Roberts. referring to the election of Donald Trump.

Eight of the 12 polled said they became more politically aware after the election, and those who said they did not were either already politically aware before or their amount of interest did not increase.

Robert Poole, a 25-year-old law student at UGA, said that his awareness did not change after the election since law students are generally more aware.

When asked what Poole thought of the demonstrations around Athens and the rest of the country, he said, “I think it is kind of our political system at work, especially because even though it kind of seems messy, it is a good sign that citizens still have the ability to speak either for or against the election and not have to fear prosecution for that.”

Eloise Rodgers Hancock, a 68-year-old resident of Athens, had a more cautionary view on the growing protests and thought the demonstrations needed to stay “cool, calm and collected.”

Stephen Tyler, 24-year-old Athens resident
MOTS, News

Athens Residents Discuss Opinions on Trump’s Planned Legislations

A few weeks into Donald Trump’s presidency, residents of Athens, Georgia, are more politically engaged and outspoken than ever, according to an informal poll conducted by JOUR 3190. These voiced opinions became known through an informal interview of University of Georgia students about their thoughts about Trump’s planned legislations, executive orders, and how they feel he has held his campaign promises.

Twelve people were interviewed at the Arch in downtown Athens; eight students, two servers, a retail worker, and a retired businessman.

Of the 12 people interviewed about Trump’s planned legislations, the majority has large issues and strongly disagrees with Trump’s views, current legislations, and his future plans. The interviewees were asked about their thoughts regarding whether or not Trump has held true to his promises made throughout his campaign, the immigrant ban, the Dakota and Keystone pipelines, the wall that is planned to be built between the US and Mexico, and finally, what their thoughts are on the demonstrations acted out post-election.

The initial question asked of all 12 participants, who were all of legal voting age, was whether or not they had voted in this past year’s election. Eleven of the 12 participants had voted in the election.

“I think that was maybe one of the worst moves president’s made in the history of the United States,” stated Aakash Malhotra, 19, when asked about his opinion on Trump’s proposed immigrant ban. As a UGA student from Alpharetta, Malhotra believes that Trumps ban is rash and will not serve this nation’s problems long term. He says it is foolish and makes America look “stupid”.

Malhotra was not the only one interviewed that shared this opinion.

Will Leftridge, 23, supports Trump and his planned legislations.

Will Leftridge, a 23-year-old UGA student was quick to point out that he “loves Trump.” Leftridge said that he believes that Trump’s plans are educated, organized, and will benefit our country in the long run. Of all 12 people interviewed Leftridge was the only interviewee who strongly supported Trump and every single one of his planned legislations.

“From a procedural standpoint it was very haphazard and had a lot of ill effects, never mind the fact that it’s just totally not necessary in term or preventing terrorism and things like that…It’s a complete political obfuscation,” said Gus Elliot a 26 year old graduate student at UGA pictured below, discussing his opinion on the immigrant ban.

Gus Elliot, 26, believes that Trump’s immigrant ban is “haphazard.”

Kelsey Reeves, 19-year-old from Savannah, was quick to point out that we are all here because of immigration and this country was founded on immigration when asked about the immigrant ban. “We were founded on everyone coming over here, so why stop that now?” said Reeves.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MOTS, Sports

Bicycle Safety in Athens

On Nov. 12, a bus attempting to make a U-turn at the intersection of East Campus Road and Cemetery Street struck a cyclist [1]. Although the injuries were not life threatening, it brought up the question, “How safe is bike riding in Athens?”

An informal poll of both non-cycling students and cycling Athens residents conducted by JOUR 3190 showed people’s mixed thoughts on bicycle safety in Athens. 

Jim Stradley

Some interviewees, such as Cara Silcox, a 29-year-old academic adviser at the Terry College of Business said they felt “the bike lanes are great.”

Other respondents, such as Jim Stradley, a 51 year-old who manages The Hub Bicycles store, said that the number of bike lanes is “sorely lacking.”

Riding in bicycles in Athens is “relatively safe,” said Lee Jourdan, a senior from Monroe majoring in mechanical engineering and entertainment media at the University of Georgia. Jourdan compared Athens to cities like Atlanta, which he believes has more traffic and fewer bike lanes.

“You know, I’ve ridden all over the country. I feel just as safe here as I would anywhere else,” said William Lanzilotta, a 48 year-old professor of biochemistry and biophysics at UGA. “Safety is certainly a matter of perspective like so many other things. People in Athens I think are a little more aware of us.”

Lanzilotta said he’s been hit by cars before and that bike riders should be “just as attentive” to their surroundings as people driving cars.

Stradley said that he felt “generally” safe riding a bicycle in Athens. He said drivers should know bicycles are vehicles by law and “entitled to the road” just as much as automobiles.

Others gave reasons why riding bicycles in Athens didn’t feel entirely safe to them.

“I personally would be nervous to ride a bike in Athens,” said Jaico Selka, a sophomore from Suwanee majoring in ecology. “I feel like a lot of cars think they own the road more than bicyclists do.”

Silcox said bicyclists should be doing more to improve their own safety and that many are unaware of Georgia’s bicycle laws.

Cara Silcox

“I can’t tell you the number of people who I’ve seen not wearing a helmet, especially on campus or in town,” Silcox said.

“Helmets are essential…I always wear a helmet,” said Ashley Gruber, a 28 year-old photographer.

Silcox also said there’s a lot of “distracted driving” making the roads unsafe and that drivers need to be aware of their surroundings.

“Put your phone down for one,” Silcox said. “That’s the biggest thing.”

Silcox said she was with her fiancé, Brian Molloy, a 44 year-old who owns The Hub Bicycles store, when they saw a cyclist almost get hit on Highway 441.

“There was no bike lane, no reflective clothing, no lights, no helmet, it was dark, and a truck almost hit them,” Silcox said.

Silcox said that the truck swerved to miss the rider, but maintained that the fault of incidents such as these is on both sides.

Molloy said that it’s important for bicyclists to do whatever they can to “stick out” to drivers and that a helmet and lights — which he said cost around $60 for a quality pair — are the two most important things.
“It’s worth it to make that investment for your safety,” Molloy said.

MOTS, News

Athens Residents Voice Mixed Opinions on Recent Trump Executive Orders

Just weeks into the presidency of Donald Trump, some Athens residents remain skeptical about the new administration, telling JOUR 3190 that recent executive orders underscored their concerns about Trump.

Of the 12 people interviewed, only one voiced full satisfaction with both how President Donald Trump had remained consistent with his campaign promises and the executive orders announced thus far in the presidency.

Claudia Luna, a 23-year-old student said the Southern Wall is disheartening.

The other 11 interviewees voiced a range of opinions from dissatisfaction to disdain when asked about past actions of President Trump and his current executive orders such as the immigration Ban and the building of the wall.

When asked about the building of the wall between U.S. and Mexico, Claudia Luna, a 23-year-old student said: “I was upset because that’s not fair.”

“First of all, I think building a wall is ridiculous,” said Luna. “My family is from Mexico. So to hear that, that was just really disheartening.”

Similarly, Tom Deal, a 56-year-old resident of Atlanta, called the wall a “boondoggle,” adding that in his view it will be a “big waste of time and money.”

National polls conducted by Politico in early February found that approximately 48 percent of Americans are in favor of the construction of the wall. The same poll also said 55 percent of Americans favored the immigration ban.

Despite these national results, from the 12 Athens residents interviewed last week, a majority voiced strong displeasure in these executive orders.

Gus Elliott, a 24-year-old grad student said the Immigration Ban is haphazard.

“[The immigration Ban] was very haphazard and it had a lot of ill effects, never mind the fact that it’s totally not necessary in terms of preventing terrorism,” said Gus Elliott, a 26-year-old graduate student from Valdosta. “It is a complete political obfuscation.”

When asked if these executive orders came as a surprise, there was a general consensus that, based on Trump’s campaign promises, most were skeptical but not entirely caught off guard when Trump did in fact follow through on his major campaign promises.

“A lot of it just sounded like bull to me. It still sounds like a lot of bull so he is consistent on that,” said  23-year-old student Hannah Smith.

“I guess the stuff he talked about – what he was campaigning – we never thought would actually happen. But he has had some executive orders that do really follow through with that…in a scary way,” said Rachel Terns, a 21-year-old student from UGA studying Public Relations.

JOUR 3190 posed six questions to each of the individuals, surveying them on their opinions of these executive orders as well as the so-called “resistance” movements which followed the proposal of such executive orders.

Though few interviewees participated in demonstrations such as organized rallies and marches, the overall opinions of these demonstrations were mixed among those interviewed.

“I do not agree with them because most of those people have not given Trump a chance yet. I think it is definitely dividing everyone in the country,” Will Veringa, a 19-year-old student studying Finance at UGA said.

In contrast, some were supportive despite not personally participating in the demonstrations themselves.

Feredock, a 20-year-old visitor from Savannah, voiced a different opinion. “I think they are good. We are standing together which is obviously what everyone needs. For privileged people, our votes and voices are louder, so we need to help out.”

Lifestyle, MOTS

UGA students dream up the best dates in Athens

Roses are red, violets are blue, for a date in Athens, what do you do? The best spots for dating in the Classic City are determined by what you are looking for, according to an informal poll of UGA students conducted by JOUR 3190.

 

Among the 12 students questioned, answers varied from casual coffee dates to watching drones fly in an empty field at night. Some students described dates they had been on, while others imagined what a dream date would be. Each student had a unique perspective when it came to planning a date.

 

For the students who are in relationships, shared experiences with a significant other stood out.

 

Sven Leicher talking about watching drones.

One of those students was Sven Leicher, a third year economics major from Atlanta. Before he and his girlfriend were dating, she had taken him to an empty parking lot near a drone field so that they could watch the drones fly. Leicher said that he and his girlfriend still go to watch the drones.

 

Couples often had specific stories, while single students imagined an activity they would like to do with someone.

 

Sam Perryman, a second year finance major from Cumming, and his girlfriend Katie Kirkland, a second year wildlife major from Fayetteville, both remembered a date they had gone on to Five Guys. The couple said that after eating they took advantage of the high-top bar seating near the windows and “people watched.” Perryman said that they even looked up the information on lanyards a group of students were wearing to figure out that it was a high school band.

 

Romantic dates were not the only focus. Karen Mejia, a fourth year advertising major from Norcross, said she would rather have a friend-date at ARTini’s Art Lounge. Although Meija said she is not good at painting, it would still be a relaxing activity for her and her friends.

 

For Callie Hood, a third year linguistics and international affairs major from Buchanan, her dream date would be to walk around the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Hood has been to the garden once or twice and said walking around would be “less awkward” than talking over dinner with someone.

 

“I feel like that’s a cool place to walk around and get to know a person,” Hood said.

 

Ashleigh Proctor describing the intimacy of Ike & Jane Café and Bakery.

Being in an environment that was ideal for conversing and getting to know someone was also a priority for Ashleigh Proctor, a second year biology major from Augusta. For Proctor, Ike & Jane Café and Bakery  would be a great spot for a coffee date since you can order dessert and get to know a person—like if they can hold a conversation.

 

“It’s a nice place to talk,” Proctor said. “There’s never too many people, so it’s not really crowded and busy.”

 

Instead of sitting and talking Gunnar Weger, a fourth year finance major from Honolulu, said his dream date would be to go ice skating at the Classic Center. When he lived in D.C., Weger said that he would go ice skating 10 to 20 times a year.

 

“It just brings back very fond memories. It makes me feel younger,” Weger said about ice skating.

Culture, MOTS

Hometown vs. College town

Going away to college can be a new experience for many students. While, the campus life experience is given the most attention, JOUR 3190 wanted to know how the college town experience compared to students’ hometowns, and surveyed 12 students about their take on Athens, Georgia.

When asked about his transition from Atlanta to Athens, 21 -year -old Desmond Baskin described Atlanta as, “its own world.”

Desmond Baskin

Other than the differences in pace, Baskin, a history major at the University of Georgia, said Athens has more of a tourist attraction. However, he also stated that he initially could not associate the city with anything other than UGA.

Before coming to Athens, Baskin, never thought he would attend the university. “In order for me to go to UGA I have to be rich or an athlete,” he said of his initial perception.

Nevertheless, when asked the same question 21 -year -old, music performance major Kwanza Williams said she doesn’t see much difference. Born and raised in Auburn, Alabama, Williams said that the only difference between the two cities is the landscape and the food.

When it comes to food Auburn is no match. “Athens food is the s**t when it comes to Auburn,” said Williams when referring to what she calls, “family based” restaurants like, The Grit and Dawg Gone Good BBQ.

 

Kwanza Williams

When asked to find similarities, both Baskin and Williams described Athens as a tourist town, where the music scene is very popular. However, Baskin went on to say that only similarity he could see between Atlanta and Athens was its impoverished state. According, to the U.S. Census Bureau, Athens-Clarke County’s poverty rate has more than doubled since 2000.

 

As many wealthy and successful people, like Ryan Seacrest and Alton Brown, have come from UGA, Baskin said he doesn’t understand why the university continues to flourish as the city continues to struggle. Williams made similar statements but also added that the, “college is the only thing keeping the city alive.”

Aside from the fact that both Baskin and Williams attend the university in town, neither could find any other reason to move to the city after graduation. In fact, prior to Baskin’s acceptance to UGA he said he had never been to Athens and even then he still did not visit the city until he started classes.

Although, Baskin has lived in Athens four years, when asked if he planned to live in Athens following graduation Baskin said, “there is nothing here for me but school.” His reasoning was his being accustomed to “big cities” and more “urban areas.”

Seeing how similar Athens is to her hometown, Williams also objected to living in Athens after graduation. She said she hopes to experience something else, “I’ll probably move somewhere warm;more open.”

Culture, MOTS

Athens city-goers discuss superstitions, hauntings, and favorite hangout spots that characterize the city

To find out more about how students, residents, and visitors experience Athens, reporters from JOUR 3190 conducted a survey of downtown visitors on a recent sunny afternoon. Twelve interviewees mentioned their favorite eccentric hangouts, secret hideaways, Athens superstitions, and the city’s history of hauntings.

Some people discussed favorite spots around Athens that are more under the radar. Justin Garner, a first-year horticulture major at the University of Georgia, enjoys going to the abandoned denim factory north of town. Not many people have heard of it, he said. “It’s good if you want to blow off steam and just kind of be angry at the world.”

Third-year marketing student Kalai Willis said she enjoys the “secret waterfall on Macon highway.” If you’re ever trying to find it, it’s on the right hand side of the highway just before Athens Ridge, she said.

Several people preferred spots closer to the heart of Athens, such as local restaurants. Andrew Westbrook, 24, recently moved to the city after living in Lima, Ohio, enjoys Transmetropolitan when he goes out to eat.

Briana Rice, 23, recently graduated from UGA and describes her favorite food spots as being “pretty normal.” She likes to spend time at Rook and Pawn, Rooftop Bar, and Walker’s Coffee Shop, specifically “the back part…like underneath Blue Sky.”

Briana Rice, 23, discusses her favorite Athens hangout spots.

In addition to discussing favorite physical locations in Athens, the interviewees also mentioned some of their favorite superstitions and historical details.

The most commonly mentioned superstition was regarding the Arch, and that walking under it before graduation is bad luck.

However, some answers reflected stories that pointed towards Athens’s history of supposed hauntings. Ken Whittington, 52, of Anderson, South Carolina, has worked for UGA Food Services for several years. He said that he knows the building behind Holmes-Hunter Academic Building on North Campus is haunted. “Students studying late at night hear things” that they can’t explain, he said.

Rice shared the story of the haunted building on campus called Joseph E. Brown Hall, which used to be a dorm but now serves as an academic facility. She said that before students were mandated to leave for break, one stayed behind in the dorm during the holiday season and committed suicide. The body was not found until the end of the break, and they walled the whole room up, she said. “If you go there now, it’s still walled up, but there is supposedly a picture on the wall to make it look like there’s a doorway there,” said Rice, who added that she has not ventured upstairs to see for herself.

The Red & Black published an article elaborating on the Joseph E. Brown Hall haunting and history, as well as a few other Athens myths and legends. It can be found here:

http://www.redandblack.com/news/mythbusters-uga/article_453329d5-4e0f-579f-ab49-3fa9a2e1fa5c.html

Other stories of superstitions reflected a more whimsical side to Athens. Garner said that, “If you climb all the magnolia trees on campus, you’re blessed with good luck.” He also said that he has climbed several of the trees himself, but “not nearly all of them.”

Liz Habersham, a first-year advertising and English major from Savannah, Georgia, described a “secret” checklist of three different things to do around campus before graduating from UGA. The three activities include running the bases at Foley Field, climbing to the top of the Stegeman Coliseum, and breaking into Sanford Stadium after hours. “It’s called the trifecta,” she said.

Liz Habersham, a first-year student at UGA, describes superstitions and the “secret checklist” in Athens.
MOTS, Sports

Are You Getting Ready for Spring Break?

The full week of sun, sunscreen, road trips and beaches is near. Students are preparing for spring break by getting into shape to achieve their “beach bod,” according to an informal survey conducted by JOUR 3190 last week.

Students prefer to exercise off campus instead of occupying the Ramsey Student Center the interviews revealed.

Of 12 students interviewed, five students are working out in preparation for spring break.

“I want to look really good in my bikini,” said sophomore Alexandria Purdue, who is from Conyers, Georgia.

Sophomore Alexandria Purdue from Conyers, Georgia. She works at Burlington Coat Factory.

Of 12 students, less than half said that they work out at Ramsey. The other interviewees expressed how inconvenient the crowds are and how parking is not free throughout the day.

Sophomore Tristan Pugh, an employee of the Ramsey Student Center, said, “It is very crowded during this time, most people are there preparing for spring break.”

Other students find the gyms at their apartment complexes sufficient enough. “I live at The Standard and they have an elliptical and treadmill in the gym so it is more convenient for me to just work out there,” said junior Kelly Higgins who is from Atlanta, Georgia.

Other students are not looking forward to physically get ready for spring break.

Junior Alexa Lee said, “I am not physically preparing for spring break because I am simply not going anywhere. I wish I was going somewhere.”

Some students said they decide to take it a little further and join places off campus to work out. Senior Savannah Kornder from Decatur, Georgia, does an hour and a half long class of hot yoga. “I leave class feeling extremely stretched and also super sweaty,” Kornder said.

Senior, Martha Nixon, has a membership to Pure Bare. “In the classes I take we do more strength exercises like lifting weights, pushups and squats,” Nixon said. Nixon stopped going to the Ramsey Student Center after freshman year. “Parking was too difficult,” Nixon said.

Most popular types of workout regimes were cardio and strength training, according to the surveyed group. Also among the group, the elliptical, weight lifting and treadmills were the most common ways of exercise.

Pugh’s favorite exercise is “anything, but cardio,” he said. “Cardio is the worst. Are you kidding?”

Senior Cydney Karlins from Suwannee, Georgia.

Cydney Karlins, a senior from Suwanee, Georgia, swims for exercise. “I grew up swimming and I am able to think things through unlike cardio where you are focused on running,” Karlins said.

Some students also gave various reasons for why they workout in general and not just in preparation for spring break. Some students exercise to stay in shape or for mental health reasons. Student Fikrte Adebe, who is from Tucker, Georgia said, “I like how it makes me feel rather than how I look.”

The most preferred time to exercise according to interviewees is the late afternoon or evening. Other obligations and extra curricular activities take up most of the students’ day.

 

Business, MOTS

Customer Service: Make or Break

Athens, Georgia, might be best known as the home of Sanford Stadium and the Georgia Bulldogs, but it is also home to a thriving clothing boutique culture. Most of the stores cater to fans in search of game-day outfits, and students looking for the perfect look for fraternity and sorority events, according to a recent informal poll conducted for a Journalism course.

There are over 20 boutiques located in downtown Athens, and while many have been in their respective locations for years, there are others that are beginning to grow their name in the classic city.
“Mostly I go for game days,” said third year student, Jenny Mai when asked about shopping at boutiques. Mai said that Fringe is her favorite.

Fringe is located at 153 East Clayton Street, and is moderately new, having opened in May 2016. It is co-owned by another local boutique in Athens, Red Dress boutique. Mai described the customer service as being one of the best, rating them a nine out of 10 stating, “They always greet you when you go in and are very helpful when looking for outfits.”

Although some boutiques can be described as having great customer service, there are a few others that customers believe may be overdoing the friendly attitude. A graduate of UGA and now resident of Athens, Ashton Morrison, described a couple of the boutiques stating, “They’re friendly, maybe a little
fake sometimes if we are being honest.” Morrison said she feels that the stereotypes in boutiques in Athens match just about everything that can be thought of. “They all look like Barbies who work in a boutique,” said Morrison when explaining her reasoning of believing the stereotypes.

Stereotypes about boutiques in Athens range from a plethora of things. Such as, the women who are employed at most boutiques are only sorority girls or that the clothes sold are completely overpriced. Another major stereotype about the boutiques deal with race, and how some women are treated by employees than others. You don’t see too many women of color employed at boutiques downtown, and though it isn’t a valid reason to believe the stereotype it can be eye opening for some.

Customer service in boutiques can be crucial when it comes to keeping loyal customers, but it can also be a breaking point for those who won’t return. Fortunately for Cheeky Peach Boutique, there is a loyal customer who completely loves the atmosphere and help they provide each time she visits. Ivey Thompson is a third year student and is affiliated with the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. When inquired about her experiences there she said, “They are super helpful, but not overly annoying helpful where they push you to buy things.” Thompson enjoys Cheeky Peach and has been since her freshman year of college. She loves how they aren’t too aggressive, and are just right when it comes to pairing outfits. “They drew me in through promos during rush my freshman year,” Thompson said when asked how she heard of the store.

Cheeky Peach Boutique on Instagram: “Status: 364 days to find a Valentine for next year⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ Shop link in bio!⠀ ⠀ #cheekypeach #girlfriendjeans #festivalstyle #suede #springtanks #athensga”

122 likes, 0 comments – cheekypeachFebruary 15, 2017 on : “Status: 364 days to find a Valentine for next year⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ .⠀ Shop link in bio!⠀ ⠀ #cheekypeach #girlfriendjeans #festiv…”

 

Lifestyle, MOTS

UGA takes a break from partying this spring break

Spring break 2017 will be a week for relaxing not partying for some University of Georgia students, according to a recent informal poll of UGA students conducted by JOUR 3190.

Of the 12 students polled, only two stated plans of going to the beach for their spring break.

“I’m going to spend a week watching television, catching up on sleep, and playing with my dog,” said Vallari Bhave, a second year marketing major from Johns Creek.

In 2010, UGA was ranked as the number one party school in the country according to The Princeton Review. By 2015, UGA had dropped to number eight on the list of 20 and in 2016 was left off of the list completely.

The informal poll’s results seemed to mimic this downward partying trend for UGA students.

“I mean I love to party,” said Katie Peterson, a third year sociology and women’s studies major from Roswell. “But I’m not one to be around a million people and be super crowded around a bunch of drunk a**holes. Like physically and emotionally can’t deal with that. I would fight people if I had to do that.”

Peterson plans to visit her brother in Florida and go to Universal Studios instead.

“I mean I love to party. But I’m not one to be around a million people.”

Avoiding the spring break beach hotspots seems like a common theme among UGA students this spring break season.

“Now that I’m in college I really want to avoid the beaches. I want to avoid that completely,” said Tucker Pennington a second year journalism major from Marietta. Pennington is road tripping to Clemson, South Carolina to visit friends for the week-long break.

Tucker Pennington being interviewed at UGA.

Using the break for service was also a plan for some of those students surveyed.

Adaobi Ugonabo will be going on an IMPACT trip over spring break. IMPACT is a UGA service-based educational trip which offers a chance for service over the break.

“It seemed like an interesting thing to do over spring break and you get to actually help people and get something out of it,” said Ugonabo, a fourth year public relations major from Stockbridge.

Samuel Tingle, who spent last year’s spring break on an IMPACT trip in North Carolina, plans to go on a cruise this year. Kwame Kessie and Sydney Giles also have plans to go on cruises during their break from classes.

Tingle is heading to the Bahamas for five days with friends, and wanted to steer clear of any “sprang break” plans such as partying in Panama City Beach.

Samuel Tingle being interviewed at UGA.

After spring break partying came to an all time high in 2015, with shootings and sexual assault incidents, the Panama City Beach local officials cracked down on partying, according to AL.com.

Legislation has been passed that makes drinking on PCB beaches illegal in the month of March which is when the majority of college spring breaks are scheduled.

“I heard that the ban has caused a lot of college students to steer clear of PCB,” said Kessie. “I also heard that it’s not a destination people want to go to anymore.”

New legislation at major party beaches have students who do want to party on the beach searching for new destinations.

Nikki Sarmer, a second year intended public relations major from Warner Robins, plans to go to Destin, Florida instead. She said she “would never” go to PCB after the crackdown.

Lifestyle, MOTS

UGA students opt out of “crowded” beach scene for spring break

Audio

While the University of Georgia might have a reputation as a top “party school,” at least some students are putting partying on hold for spring break 2017, according to an informal poll conducted last week by JOUR 3190.

Of the 12 students interviewed, only two had plans of going to a beach during spring break; neither of which included the popular Panama City Beach.

While Panama City Beach has traditionally been the go-to destination for college students, recent legislation on alcohol bans for the beach have resulted in disinterest among many.

According to the Panama City Beach government website, Ordinance 1353 prohibits “the possession or consumption of alcohol on the Sandy Gulf Beach during the month of March.”

“I heard that the ban has caused a lot of college students to steer clear of Panama City Beach,” said Kwame Kessie, a fourth year engineering major from Stone Mountain, Georgia. “I also heard that it’s not a destination people want to go to anymore.”

Kwame Kessie being interviewed on UGA campus.

Kessie, who said he has been on beach trips for spring break in the past, decided to go on a cruise to Mexico with his friends this year instead.

“I actually did a beach trip last year, and me and my friends decided that a cruise would be really fun and cost effective because everything would be included in the price of the cruise,” Kessie said.

The price of a spring break trip turned out to be a primary factor in seeking other plans for students like Adaobi Ugonabo, a third year public relations major from Stockbridge, Georgia.

Ugonabo decided to go on an IMPACT trip for her spring break, which is a service-based educational program hosted by UGA for college students who want an alternative option to the regular spring break experience.

Adaobi Ugonabo being interviewed on UGA campus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“From a lot of people, I’ve heard that IMPACT trips are life changing and you meet people that you’re friends with for the rest of your life,” Ugonabo said. “It seemed like an interesting thing to do over spring break and you get to actually help people and get something out of it.”

Ugonabo also said that the cost for her to go on the IMPACT trip was around $155, which included housing, transportation and food.

Kayla Duncan, a second year animal science major from Atlanta, came to her decision on what she would do for spring break based on her personal preferences.

“Panama City Beach isn’t really my style,” said Duncan. “I’m more of a theme park kind of person.”

Duncan said she and a few of her friends plan on going to Orlando to go to a couple of parties and to visit the theme parks.

“We didn’t do anything last spring break and I know Orlando has a lot of fun theme parks,” said Duncan. “Orlando is just a common place that most people usually go to.”

Katie Peterson, a third year sociology and women’s studies major from Roswell, Georgia said she also planned to travel to Florida for spring break. She said she would be visiting her brother and going to Universal Studios.

Like Duncan, Peterson said the traditional Panama City Beach-like scene did not interest her.

“I’m not really that type of person,” Peterson said. “I mean I love to party, but I’m not one to be around a million people and be super crowded around a bunch of drunk a——s.”

 

MOTS, News

Athens residents have become more politically active, according to poll

In light of the executive order on immigration implemented by the new administration, many now feel as though they are more politically active, according to an informal poll of University of Georgia students and local Athens residents conducted last week by JOUR 3190.

Katie Morgan, a second year student who says she has not become more politically active

While they may feel politically engaged now, not all of those interviewed felt the same way during the election. Of the 12 people interviewed, three did not vote in the recent presidential election.

“If I actually want to vote and make an impact, I want to have information to vote,” said Amelia Grace Wolfe, a 19-year-old student from Augusta. She did not vote in the presidential election because she was out of town and missed the deadline to fill out an absentee ballot.

Another interviewee, Ike Astuti, a 35-year-old student from Indonesia, did not vote because she is not an American citizen. Although not immediately affected, Astuti thinks it is common to see disagreement among the political parties but believes both need to come from a place of understanding.

All interviewees said they were either at the same level of political consciousness or more aware than they had been prior to the election.

“I have definitely continued to monitor the election since it has happened,” said Robert Poole, a 25-year-old law student from Marietta. Poole believes he is generally more aware because he is a law student.

The same three people who did not vote also claim to not be more politically active. Others, such as sophomore Keaton Law, are participating in demonstrations against the actions taken by the new administration.

Law, a history and political science major, said he attended the March for Immigrants at the UGA Arch on Feb. 3 and the protest against the executive order on immigration at the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta on Jan. 24.

“It’s a good thing for people to rally around what they believe in. It’s important to challenge what you oppose,” Law said.

Many were aware of the demonstrations against the new administration, but some, such as Stephen Tyler, a 24-year-old Athens resident, were only aware of them either as they were happening or after.

Stephen Tyler, a 24-year-old Athens resident who says the demonstrations are a good way to raise awareness

Tyra Roberts, a sophomore finance major, said, “Prior to this election, I feel like a lot of people weren’t really engaged in politics but I think we’re realizing if we don’t use our voice and actually speak out, this is what can happen.”

Roberts is referring to the executive order on immigration, banning immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries.

Students conducting the interviews posed five questions to determine who voted in the presidential election, whether they were more politically aware, more politically active, were aware of demonstrations against the administration, how they felt about them and if they participated in any.

Although a majority of those interviewed were in favor of the protests, some said they were a bit skeptical.

“Demonstrations are great, but they lose their purpose if they don’t cause any actual change,” Riley King, a 25-year-old Athens resident said. He does not participate in any demonstrations.

Likewise, Eloise Rodgers Hancock, a 65-year old Athens resident, believes that although people have the right to protest peacefully, they should keep demonstrations “cool, calm, and collected.”

Business, MOTS

Athens residents support local businesses despite presence of chains

With a growing number of chain businesses nestled in a town full of local entrepreneurs, Athens residents claim their support for local businesses, according to a poll conducted by JOUR 3190 students in February.

Twelve people were interviewed regarding their opinions on various businesses in the Athens area, and all 12 claimed to make an effort to support the local stores.

When asked to give reasoning behind preferring to shop and eat locally, Landon Lambert, a freshman from Canton, Georgia, said she likes to go to “a restaurant that you wouldn’t find anywhere else.”

Other respondents like Lambert also voiced a preference for local businesses based on atmosphere and unique qualities.

However, just as often, the matter of price was a feature alluded to by respondents in their reasoning behind preferring certain stores over others.

Ashton Pike, senior from Snellville, Georgia, describes her preference for large serving sizes at restaurants.

Ashton Pike, a senior from Snellville, Georgia, mentioned these factors when citing Transmetropolitan as having low prices and large serving sizes. “It’s more bang for your buck,” said Pike, whose opinion matched those of other college students interviewed.

Chain businesses are on the rise in Athens, according to a 2015 article by The Red & Black.

But the growth of commercial retailers downtown may actually increase sales for local businesses such as Dynamite Clothing, a small clothing store with lower prices than its new competitor Urban Outfitters, as stated in the 2015 Red & Black article. John Van Wert, a senior advertising major from Peachtree City, Georgia, referenced Dynamite Clothing when discussing his preference for shopping at local stores and the “niche shops,” over “widely known chains,” like Urban Outfitters.

All 12 interviewees also claimed to understand the difference between a chain and a local business, yet some contradicted themselves when asked to provide examples of local businesses they frequent.

Katie Huff, UGA graduate from Athens, Georgia, shares her thoughts on how the business scene of Athens has changed.

“Urban Outfitters…Five Guys, and definitely Starbucks comes to mind,” replied sophomore Sarina Conway from Madison, Georgia, naming national chains when asked for her thoughts on the epitome of an Athens local business.

While most regarded both Zaxby’s and Cane’s as chains, few knew the history behind Zaxby’s and its ties to Athens. “It was local and then it became a chain,” said Katie Huff, a graduate of UGA who was born and raised in Athens.

Huff shared her perspective on how the town’s business scene has changed over the years. “I would say that the one thing about downtown is that the change is constant,” Huff said, explaining that some of her favorite childhood venues have been replaced.

When it came to older local residents in the area, responses reflected a more negative outlook.

Katie Wilson, an Athens local who was with her husband, said while she does support local businesses, she chooses to “go local somewhere else,” with her family in effort to avoid the crowds of college students downtown.

Bella Montoya, a 35-year Athens resident and previous local business owner, listed various downtown local restaurants and shops she frequents.

However, when Montoya was asked her opinion of Onward Reserve, an Athens-based men’s clothing store, she said: “I’m OK with Onward, even though it’s a chain…but just not Walmart or CVS. That I am not OK with.”

Exercises, MOTS, Sports

Students and Spring Break: How Their Workout Routines Are Affected

Are students revving up their workouts in preparation for the impending spring break? Apparently, this depends largely on whom you ask, according to an informal poll conducted by JOUR 3190 students at the University of Georgia. This poll revealed students to be divided in their anticipation of spring break.

Five of the 12 students interviewed said they are working out in preparation for spring break, while the others said they are either working out with different goals in mind, or not at all.

“I want to look good in my bikini,” said Alexandria Perdue, a sophomore from Conyers, Georgia.

“I really don’t care,” said Tristan Pugh, a sophomore from Duluth, Georgia. Pugh was one of the six students who said they work out in general but without inspiration from the upcoming break. Pugh said he believes that Ramsey is crowded due to exercisers “definitely” there because of New Year’s resolutions or the impending break.

Emilie Gille is a sophomore from Gainesville, Georgia. She said that she is working out as a result of her New Year’s resolution.

Savannah Kornder, a senior from Decatur, Georgia, is working out because of a New Year’s resolution as well as the upcoming break.

Savannah Kornder being interviewed on campus

A few of the students cited motivations other than spring break or the new year. “It just makes us feel better,” said Chris Cannon, a sophomore from Augusta, Georgia, who works out with his friends in order to boost endorphins. Diana Downward, a senior from south Georgia, said she works out for mental health.

The students interviewed were also asked if they work out on campus in the Ramsey Student Center. Perdue, Pugh, Gille and Cannon are all working out on campus. Others are not.

Kelly Higgins, a junior from Atlanta, Georgia, said that going to the gym at her apartment makes more sense than going to Ramsey. Higgins, who is working out for spring break, was also bothered by the cost to park at Ramsey.

Kelly Higgins being interviewed on campus

Higgins wasn’t alone in mentioning the hassle of parking at Ramsey. Martha Nixon, a senior from Augusta, Georgia, said she stopped going to Ramsey her freshman year because parking was too difficult. Cannon said that he works out on campus only because he lives on campus but has heard from some of his friends that parking is too expensive.

Gille works out on campus for the same reason as Cannon. She lives on campus, and working out at Ramsey is the easiest for her. She said that she sometimes even walks to Ramsey, and appreciates that the extra steps add to her workout.

Lastly, according to a few students who participated in this survey, time constraints have an impact in the amount of working out students can do.

Downward was one of a few students who mentioned that their schedules prevent them from working out when or as often as they would like to. Downward said she would prefer to work out in the morning, but has to work out at night because she is so busy. Higgins also said she prefers to work out in the morning, but her schedule only allows her to work out at night.

Fikrte Abebe said she does not have time to work out at all. Abebe is a student as well as a housing consultant, and said that work and school get in the way of her efforts to work out. She likes the way working out makes her feel, however. “Before, when I didn’t work, I always had time for that,” said Abebe, a senior from Tucker, Georgia.

 

Business, MOTS

Athens local businesses gaining support in spite of new chains

The growth of chain businesses in Athens has some residents frequenting local stores more, as seen in results from a poll conducted downtown on Sunday.

When asked if they support Athens local businesses, 12 out of 12 who were polled responded yes. All of the respondents also said they can distinguish between a local business and a chain.

Even after fewer than two semesters at school, first-year student from Cartersville Laura Beth Garrett described a local business as “owned by someone, owned individually.”

Athens is flooded with franchises like Panera on Atlanta Highway and Starbucks on College Avenue or the newer additions of Zaxby’s and Urban Outfitters on Clayton Street.

“Urban Outfitters is widely known as a chain,” stated John Van Wert, a UGA senior majoring in advertising. The Peachtree City native said that he shops “mostly at the niche shops… I’ve bought stuff from Dynamite before, like the local stuff.”

John Van Wert mid-interview on College Avenue

Van Wert’s sentiment was echoed by other interviewees, as eight out of the 12 are current students. According to a May 2016 report in The Athens Banner-Herald, millennials focus on “community and creating relationships with people and not so concerned with the bottom line.”

Though the chains are successful, locals are more inclined to support their fellow Athens business owners according to the survey.

Bella Montoya, an Athens resident for the past 35 years, used to be a business owner herself for 20 years. When asked to name her favorite shops, she only listed locally owned names like Trappeze Pub, Highwire, South Kitchen, the Grotto, and the Globe. When asked about chains, she said she dislikes chains such as “Wal-Mart or CVS,” adding “that I am not OK with.”

A similar feeling was expressed by Katie Huff, who was born and raised in Athens, attended the University of Georgia and now lives and works in Athens. She reminisced about her time spent in the Classic City saying, “The Grill is where we used to go in high school, Junkman’s used to be right down here at the road.”

Katie Huff answering questions on her lifetime spent in Athens

As a lifetime resident, Huff’s opinion on the chains centers more on the unpredictability on their lifespan. “I would say that the one thing about downtown is that the change is constant,” she explained.

That is another concern of locals. With new restaurants and stores coming each year, there is fear of loss of long-time destinations like the downtown Horton’s Drug Store or the Five Points ADD Drug, both of which have been around since 1961 according to their respective web pages.

Huff went on to say, “The one thing that is constant is that new businesses are opening and some of the old ones are closing and going away.”

Even the younger students agreed with the thoughts of the long-time residents. Freshman from Canton Landon Lambert backed visiting Athens destinations “like one of the boutiques or like a restaurant that you wouldn’t find anywhere else.”