OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene
CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene
AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson
CONTRIBUTORS Margaret Coker, Chris Dowd, Erin France, Gordon Lamb
CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser
CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe
EDITORIAL & OFFICE INTERN Mary Beth Bryan
PHOTOGRAPHERS Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel
SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons
COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Hot Corner Committee by Jake Zerkel (see
Last Friday, hip-hop musician Cassie Chantel shared the music video for “Cool Chix Only,” a jazz-inspired reimagining of one of her previous works from seven years ago. In recent years the Athens native has taken a step back from music, so in many ways the
was a reintroduction of Cassie Chantel the artist.
“Flagpole Premieres: Cassie Chantel, ‘Cool Chix Only’” at flagpole.com.
Victoria Dugger’s exhibition “Peach Fuzz” at the Lyndon House Arts Center explores identity, disability and Southern heritage. For more exhibitions, see Art Around Town on p. 16.
Mayor, Senate Races Kick Off
TIM DENSON ANNOUNCES HIS CANDIDACY, AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
Former Athens- Clarke County commissioner and current school board member Tim Denson announced his candidacy for mayor last week, promising solutions to Athens’ housing crisis.
Denson moved to Athens from Florida in 2010 and participated in the Occupy movement. After his upstart mayoral campaign won a surprising 40% of the vote against incumbent Nancy Denson (no relation) in 2014, he formed Athens for Everyone to advocate for progressive causes like farefree transit.
A4E, while short-lived, proved influential in the 2018 election that swept a left-leaning group of candidates into office—including Denson, who defeated incumbent Jared Bailey and another challenger to win the District 5 commission seat, representing an area from Normaltown out to the Jackson County line. While on the commission, he worked for policies to reign in housing costs and help the homeless, such as spearheading an eviction prevention program. He also backed a controversial proposal, never enacted, to gradually shift half the police budget toward social services.
Denson’s day job is team leader at Advantage Behavioral Health’s Homeless Day Service Center, a North Avenue facility for people to make calls, pick up mail, do laundry, take showers and access other services. Prior to that, he was an organizer with the United Campus Workers of Georgia’s UGA chapter.
trict employees, create a sustainability plan and improve graduation rates.
Denson said he will hold a series of listening sessions this summer to hear from voters about their hopes, concerns and priorities. His website is TimForAthens.com.
BOE Debates Hiring More Police
A proposal to hire more resource officers at Clarke County public schools in the wake of last year’s Appalachee High School shooting met with pushback from some school board members who fear it could lead to unnecessary disciplinary action against students and young children potentially being arrested.
“Denson knows how to work both within government and in the community to get things done,” according to a news release. “He envisions an Athens where everyone’s needs are met, including their needs for safety, for transparent and accessible democracy, and for housing and economic security.”
In 2022, Athens’ Republican state legislators drew Denson and two other progressive commissioners out of their districts, preventing them from running for reelection, paving the way for Dexter Fisher to win the open District 5 seat. Fisher is expected to announce his mayoral campaign soon as well. Voters will choose a successor to Mayor Kelly Girtz, who is term-limited, in May 2026.
Meanwhile, Denson ran for school board, where, he says, he helped put a living wage into place for all Clarke County School Dis -
in nearby Barrow County last September. “We had this discussion publicly with parents and others, meeting at town hall meetings,” Hooker said, “and they were saying, ‘What are we doing to ensure that our elementary school students are safe as well?’”
Board member (and mayoral candidate) Tim Denson said he’d prefer to hire a smaller number of officers and to focus more on mental health. “I want to see us taking steps where a kid never gets a gun and tries to go there, rather than a kid gets a gun and tries to go there, and an officer stops them,” he said.
However, hiring seven instead of 14 unarmed officers would leave some elementary schools unguarded, board member Heidi Hensley said. “Parents came and were very concerned with what happened to our neighbor,” she said. “We have not had officers in many of those schools. We jumped up to that number because we’re trying to protect every school in our district, and so that’s why that number has doubled.”
Board Vice President Mark Evans said he can see both sides, but he would reluctantly support expanding the district’s police force.
“There is a real school- to-prison pipeline. That’s what we’re trying to avoid,” Evans said. “Unfortunately, every time I go to a Georgia School Board Association meeting or training on a subject like this, the thing they always say is, it’s not a matter of if [a school shooting happens], but when.
“Until we recognize our country has a real issue with guns, and the appropriate bodies that deal with that do deal with that problem, we have to play a defensive game, and this is part of our defensive game,” he said. “I don’t particularly care for this. I do want to make sure our SROs understand their job is to protect the schools, not enforce the law.”
The $255 million budget for fiscal 2026 is about $13 million higher than the current budget, including $1.1 million for the 17 new officers. But the largest expenses are unfunded state mandates—a $6.7 million increase in health care costs and $1.9 million in retirement contributions. Employee pay step increases make up $1.3 million. The addition of a sustainability officer will cost $133,000.
The tentatively approved budget’s millage rate will remain the same at 18.8 mills, although the district will bring in more revenue because the county tax digest rose 8.6% from new growth and higher property value assessments.
Griffin could serve as a retiree expired on Wednesday.
The ACC Mayor and Commission initially hired Drake in 2019. Previously, he served as attorney and interim manager in MaconBibb County.
The commission unanimously ratified Girtz’s appointment of Drake as both county attorney and acting manager. Deputy Chief Attorney John Hawkins will serve as interim county attorney while a nationwide search is underway for a new permanent manager.
Almost 1,000 Homes Coming to Atlanta Highway
The commission also unanimously approved what is believed to be the largest residential development in Athens history: 396 single- family homes, 216 townhouses and 313 apartments off Atlanta Highway near Bogart.
Superintendent Robbie Hooker wants to hire 14 unarmed officers—one for each elementary school—and three armed officers who would drive around and visit each school. That would bring the Clarke County School District’s total to 17 armed and 27 unarmed officers. Currently, officers— including six Athens- Clarke County police officers—are assigned to middle and high schools, but not elementary schools.
“This was very alarming to see we are doubling the size of the number of officers that are going to be going out into our schools, and I’m looking for something to justify that,” board member Linda Davis said.
Hooker said the proposal came about because of parent outcry after a 14- year-old killed two students and two teachers and injured nine others during a mass shooting
No members of the public spoke at hearings on the budget and tax rate June 2 and 3. The last public hearing before the school board votes on final approval June 12 is at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11 in the district headquarters auditorium at 595 Prince Ave.
Drake Named Interim Manager
The Athens- Clarke County Commission gave Judd Drake another two- year term as county attorney at its Tuesday voting meeting, then immediately turned around and named him acting manager.
Drake is the ACC government’s fourth manager in the past year. Last June, Blaine Williams announced his resignation. Williams was replaced by then-deputy manager Niki Jones, who left in January to take a job in his native North Carolina. Mayor Kelly Girtz then brought former planning director Brad Griffin out of retirement to run the city until a permanent replacement could be found. But the limit on the amount of time
The nod came over the objections of professional planners and the planning commission, an appointed advisory board, who said the latest version of the plans deviate too far from the original mixeduse New Urbanist vision for the project, originally known as Winslow Park. It was first approved in 2004 but never got off the ground due to the 2008 housing crash, and has been amended several times since. The latest iteration, proposed by national homebuilder D.R. Horton, ditches bespoke architecture for cookie- cutter designs and lacks walkability because there’s no longer a commercial component, according to critics.
But Commissioner Stephanie Johnson, who represents the area, said she found planning commissioners’ comments to be “subjective,” and decided to visit other D.R. Horton developments herself. “They look like people who work hard are living there,” she said at the June 3 meeting. “There were pluses and minuses, but things were fixable, I think in the grand scheme of things.”
Johnson also held a town hall meeting on the plans. “Surprisingly, there were many people who were in support of it, and specifically stated thank you for the opportunity to add this because we need that,” she said.
“I consistently hear us talk about adding housing stock, adding housing variety, and I think supporting this does those two things,” she added.
Commissioner Melissa Link agreed that any flaws in the plan were outweighed by a need for more housing. “I think this is a
➤
Tim Denson
Judd Drake
good opportunity to get a lot of modest, owner-occupied, middle- class housing on the market,” she said.
In other business, the commission:
• tabled a 300-house subdivision on Newton Bridge Road near Vincent Drive. Commissioner Ovita Thornton said she was prepared to move to deny the rezoning request, but decided to delay a vote until June 10 so she could meet with the developer.
• allowed developers to withdraw plans for an office building on Gaines School Road and a senior living facility on Whit Davis Road.
• tabled a proposal to build student housing on two ACC-owned parking lots off Jackson Street in exchange for affordable housing funding and a new sewer line serving north downtown. A vote on that project was also scheduled for June 10.
• voted to ask the U.S. Department of Transportation to convert a $25 million grant for North Avenue into a much smaller planning grant because the county is unable to meet a deadline to start construction.
• redesignated $3 million in SPLOST funds for a youth facility in the West Broad neighborhood toward a park in Commissioner Stephanie Johnson’s District 6 or Commission Ovita Thornton’s District 9.
Collins Wants You ‘Off’ Benefits
Georgia Democrats attacked U.S. Rep. Mike Collins last week for saying in a radio interview that he wants people to “get off” Medicaid and Social Security.
Collins, who represents Athens, was defending Republicans’ “one big, beautiful” reconciliation bill, as President Trump put it, and supply- side economics, the widely discredited idea that cutting taxes will actually increase tax revenue.
“You’ve got spending, and you’ve got revenue,” he told the right- wing talk radio station XTRA 106.3 on June 5. “You can set it up to increase your revenue, and you can do that by lowering taxes and making it more
advantageous for people to work, and to get off of Medicaid, get off of Social Security, get back in the workforce,” he said.
Other than a $4,000 tax credit for seniors, the bill does not affect Social Security, but it does cut $800 billion from Medicaid, which Democrats say would throw 750,000 Georgians off the health- care rolls. (Medicaid, for low-income families, is not to be confused with Medicare, the program for retirees.)
“Mike Collins’ message to Georgia’s retirees is clear: Get off Social Security and get off Medicaid,” said Devon Cruz, senior communications advisor for the Democratic Party of Georgia. “As Georgia Republicans continue to audition for Trump’s endorsement for Senate, they’re revealing to voters just how damaging and out of touch their agenda is for working families.”
Collins is widely rumored to be considering a run against Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, and another candidate with Athens ties could enter the race as well. The Atlanta Journal- Constitution reported last week that Derek Dooley, the son of Barbara and the late legendary football coach Vince Dooley, may jump into what is likely to be a crowded GOP primary now that Gov. Brian Kemp has bowed out.
Although they’ve never held office, the Dooleys have long been a politically influential family, mentoring Kemp and state Rep. Houston Gaines (R- Athens), and appearing alongside former Georgia football star and 2022 Senate candidate Herschel Walker on the campaign trail. Both parties tried to recruit Vince to run for governor or Senate in the 1980s and ’90s, and Barbara ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2002. Derek, 56, earned a law degree from UGA in 1994 before following his father into coaching. Most prominently, he compiled a 15–21 record as head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers from 2010–2012. As the AJC’s Greg Bluestein reported, little is known about his political views. However, as Walker showed in 2022, despite a variety of scandals—when he easily defeated thenagriculture commissioner Gary Black in the GOP primary and forced Democratic incumbent Sen. Raphael Warnock into a runoff— name recognition can go a long way. f
Summer Reading List
BOOK SUGGESTIONS FOR ATHENS’ SLOW SEASON
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
“So many books, so little time,” said Frank Zappa. The musician ran out of time in 1993 when he died too soon at the age of 52, but for “we the living” of any age, books are one of the great pleasures of Earthly existence. Any time of the year is a time to enjoy good books, but summer is here, and the sultry season is a prime time for prose and poetry.
When I was a kid in small-town Georgia, the local library was a respite from daily life and a repository for books that took readers like me away from the humdrum reality and constricting social conditions of the Jim Crow South. Schools and churches were segregated in those bad old days in Dixie, but the town library was open to all. Poet Emily Dickinson wrote, “There is no Frigate like a Book to take us Lands away.” Town librarian “Miss Mamie” made sure that readers of every race could travel to imaginary “lands away” with books.
frightening than author John Hersey’s 1946 book Hiroshima, which told the stories of survivors of the atomic bomb that exploded over that Japanese city in 1945. Only fictional tales of nuclear holocaust like Pat Frank’s Alas, Babylon (1959) or Philip Wylie’s Triumph (1963) can compare with the suspense of Nuclear War: A Scenario
“ When I was a kid in small-town Georgia, the local library was a respite from daily life.
On a more cheerful note, the 2006 book Weird Georgia by Jim Miles lives up to its subtitle as “A Travel Guide to Georgia’s Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets.” Florida is known for its animal, vegetable and especially human oddities, but Weird Georgia shows that the Peach State has more than its share of offbeat people, places and things. Included in Weird Georgia are essays and photos about “The Tree That Owns Itself” here in Athens and the Elvis Presley
It was in the local library back in the late 1950s and early ’60s that I first discovered the science fiction stories of Arthur C. Clarke and the fantasy tales of Ray Bradbury, whose chilling novel Something Wicked This Way Comes includes a town library like the one in his Illinois hometown that Bradbury frequented in his youth. In 1960 our town librarian here in Georgia was quick to acquire Harper Lee’s sensational new novel To Kill a Mockingbird. I was just 13 at the time, but my first reading of To Kill a Mockingbird convinced me that it would become an American classic. It did.
In 1962, Barbara Tuchman published her seminal volume about the origins and tragedy of World War I, The Guns of August The book won a much-deserved Pulitzer Prize, and it remains one of the best books published about “the war to end all wars” that only led to more war. The volume impressed me in 1962, and it still does so today.
A much newer book that was published just last year is Nuclear War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen. This year marks 80 years since atomic weapons were dropped on Japan in 1945. Jacobsen’s book says that those first nuclear bombings may not be the last. She writes a minute-by-minute timetable of global catastrophe that begins with the launch of a North Korean missile and ends in an Atomic Age nightmare. This book is the most frightening nonfiction account of nuclear war that I have ever read, even more
memorabilia collected by former Athenian and eternal Elvis fan Joni Mabe, “The Queen of the King.”
“ Books are the perfect entertainment: no commercials, no batteries, hours of enjoyment for each dollar spent.
A hundred years ago Americans lived in an exhilarating and sometimes frightening time that is justifiably called the Roaring Twenties. During today’s decade of the ’20s, we would do well to read some history and learn some lessons from a century ago. Two books that bring to life a past America of flappers and flivvers, jazz and speakeasies, Al Capone and alcohol are Babbitts and Bohemians: The American 1920s by Elizabeth Stevenson (1967) and One Summer: America, 1927 by Bill Bryson (2013). Both books are literary time machines that take readers on lively romps through a decade that resonates and fascinates today.
Novelist Stephen King was right: “Books are the perfect entertainment: no commercials, no batteries, hours of enjoyment for each dollar spent.” f
Finally, the PSC
ENERGY REGULATORS ARE ON THE JUNE BALLOT
By Blake Aued and Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com
Mad about your ever-rising electric bills? Now you have a chance to do something about it.
After elections were delayed for years because of a lawsuit, Georgia voters will soon pick two out of the five members of the Public Service Commission, which regulates Georgia Power, among other duties. Primaries are Tuesday, June 17, and early voting runs through Friday, June 13 at the Athens- Clarke County Elections Department downtown and the ACC Library. Voters must choose which primary they want to vote in.
PSC members each represent a district, but they run statewide. In the Democratic primary, four candidates from District 3 in metro Atlanta are competing for the right to face incumbent Fitz Johnson in November. In District 2—which includes Athens, Augusta and Savannah—Republican incumbent Tim Echols has a challenger in the GOP primary; the winner goes on to face Democrat Alicia Johnson.
PSC elections have been delayed since 2022, when a group of Fulton County voters filed a lawsuit alleging that Georgia’s method of electing district representatives statewide diluted the Black vote. The U.S. Supreme Court ultimately disagreed.
District 3 Democrats
On the Democratic side, four candidates are competing in the June 17 primary for Public Service Commission in District 3.
Commissioner in 2020 and came just shy of victory against incumbent
Republican Lauren “Bubba” McDonald. After the election, he served at the Environmental Protection Agency for three years, first as regional administrator for the Southeast and later as the senior advisor for STEM recruitment and diversity, appointed by President Joe Biden.
Blackman is running on a platform of stopping constant Georgia Power rate hikes, promoting clean energy and expanding broadband internet across rural Georgia. He says that the current commission “has been bought and sold” by the utility companies and promises that he will not take campaign contributions from these corporations or their executives. He’s been endorsed by the Sierra Club, the Working Families Party and Georgia Conservation Voters.
Blackman might seem an obvious choice for Democrats, but a judge declared him ineligible to run in 2025, a ruling that was upheld by Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. However, another judge issued an injunction against the disqualification. Blackman will remain on the ballot pending a hearing scheduled for June 10. Check flagpole.com for an update on Blackman’s appeal.
Democrats have three other options in this race, including Peter Hubbard, an energy policy analyst and the founder of the nonprofit Georgia Center for Energy Solutions. Hubbard has worked in the energy industry for 15 years, mostly for Siemens Energy Business Advisory, a consulting firm. In this role, he prepared integrated resource plans for utility companies, such as the one drafted by Georgia Power and approved by the Public Service Commission every three years.
For years, Hubbard has been speaking out against Georgia Power’s long- term energy plan, saying that it doesn’t do enough to lower rates for consumers or to invest in clean and renewable energy. He argues that Georgia Power’s plan “underestimates fossil gas costs, puts roadblocks in front of renewable energy and will further raise power bills on the backs of residential electricity customers in Georgia.”
In 2022, Hubbard ran for the Georgia House of Representatives in District 90 but was trounced in the Democratic primary, managing only 659 votes out of 11,249.
Another option for Democrats, Robert Jones, has a background in utility regula-
tion with strong policy credentials. Jones worked as a regulatory analyst for the California Public Utilities Commission for three years and in the telecommunications industry for 20 years, including at Sprint, Pacific Bell and Qwest Communications, where he served as senior vice president for network engineering and construction.
Jones argues that the Public Service Commission is “vastly underperforming.” If elected, he says he would focus on limiting the cost of electricity for consumers, making Georgia the nation’s leader in rooftop solar—we’re currently in 35th place— and on expanding high- speed internet to rural Georgia.
Jones has never run for public office before, and he has been mostly self- funding his campaign.
Jones and Hubbard are similar candidates in that they have strong policy credentials but essentially no political experience and may struggle to win a challenging statewide election.
Keisha Waites is the final Democratic candidate running in this primary. Unlike the other eligible candidates, she has political experience, serving on the Atlanta City Council from 2022–2024 and as a state representative from 2012–2017. If elected, she would be the first openly gay member to serve on the commission.
Waites supports solar power, improving transparency and lowering energy bills, but has not yet presented a detailed policy platform in this primary. Even so, she knows how to run a successful political campaign. That alone might make her the Democrats’ best chance to win if Daniel Blackman is disqualified.
District 2 Republicans
While President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans want to erase the Biden administration’s clean energy programs and electric vehicle subsidies through their “one big, beautiful” reconciliation bill, both the GOP candidates for PSC are proponents of clean energy like nuclear and solar.
Echols, who started his political career as an aide to former congressman Paul Broun, was first elected to the PSC in 2010, then re-elected in 2016. He was an early advocate of electric vehicles and even had solar panels installed on the roof of his Winterville home. “Losing these clean energy credits will hurt solar and EVs,” Echols says. “I hope Congress will keep them.”
As Georgia power pushes to keep open two coal- fired power plants scheduled for retirement to meet demands for power from data centers popping up all over Georgia, Echols says he’s pushing for more solar in the mix.
His opponent, Augusta construction company owner Lee Muns, is also in favor of more solar, although he calls it more of a complement than a primary source of energy, and prefers rooftop solar over cutting down trees for solar farms. He says Georgia Power could convert those two coal plants—Plant Scherer near Macon and Plant Bowen near Cartersville—into ones that burn natural gas, which still emits greenhouse gases but is cleaner than coal. He would also encourage data centers to cluster together and build their own power plant, rather than tax the existing infrastructure.
Georgia Power recently announced a three- year rate freeze, something Echols calls “a major milestone” after years of rate increases. Muns thinks Georgia Power can “tighten its belt,” but he contends the freeze is a tactic by Georgia Power to bolster incumbents. “They don’t want to see the incumbents they’ve got at the table go anywhere because they’re bought and paid for,” he says.
Many of those rate hikes were the result of seven years of delays and billions of dollars in cost overruns at Plant Vogtle, the nuclear plant near Augusta where two new reactors came online in 2023 and 2024. “It was too expensive, and it’s amazing that it was ever completed—yet we needed the power,” Echols says. “When [contractor] Westinghouse went bankrupt, it voided our very tight, fixed and firm contract that gave our consumers protection, and that was completely out of our control.”
Muns—who actually worked on the original Vogtle project as a young man in the late 1980s—disagrees, saying the PSC should have seen problems coming. Having worked on a number of power plants and visited other nuclear plants, he says he’s gained some expertise in power generation and distribution, and had he been on the commission at the time, he could have warned his colleagues of trouble ahead.
Muns believes nuclear plants should be standardized so they can be built quickly and cheaply, but overall he’s a supporter. “It is the most cost-effective, it’s a very clean technology, and it’s a reliable technology,” he says. f
Daniel Blackman is the best known of the Democratic candidates. He ran for Public Service
Daniel Blackman
Robert Jones
Peter Hubbard
Keisha Waites
Tim Echols
Lee Muns
The Face of Georgia Medicaid
KEMP IS
By Margaret Coker, The Current news@flagpole.com
Last summer, as political debate swirled over the future of Georgia’s experiment with Medicaid work requirements, Gov. Brian Kemp held a press conference to unveil a three-minute testimonial video featuring a mechanic who works on classic cars.
Luke Seaborn, a 54- year-old from rural Jefferson, became the de facto face of Georgia Pathways to Coverage, Kemp’s insurance program for impoverished Georgians. In a soft Southern drawl, Seaborn explained how having insurance had improved his life in the year that he had been enrolled: “Pathways is a great program that offers health insurance to low-income professionals like myself.”
Kemp lauds Pathways as an innovative way to decrease the state’s high rate of uninsured adults while reining in government spending, holding the program up as an example to other Republican-led states eager to institute Medicaid work requirements. But in the nine months since Seaborn’s video testimonial was released, his opinion of Pathways has plummeted. His benefits have been canceled twice, he said, due to bureaucratic red tape.
“I used to think of Pathways as a blessing,” Seaborn recently told The Current and ProPublica. “Now, I’m done with it.”
Rather than an enduring symbol of success, Seaborn’s experience illustrates why the program struggles to gain traction even as the state
FED UP WITH PATHWAYS
know: Would he take part in a promotional video for Pathways?
Seaborn, a supporter of the governor, said yes without hesitation. Soon afterward, Kemp’s press secretary, Garrison Douglas, arrived at his auto repair shop, located a few miles from the governor’s hometown of Athens, and spent hours filming in the garage filled with vintage Ford and Chevy trucks and handpainted gas station signs.
A trained chemical engineer, Seaborn had quit his corporate job to embrace his dream of repairing classic cars. But the realities of being a small business owner made
without adequate warning. Seaborn said the form asked for the same information he had been submitting every month, just in a different format. The state’s Medicaid agency did not respond to questions about Seaborn’s experience or the new form.
He said he called the same insurance executive who had asked him to take part in the testimonial. She told him she would be lunching with one of Kemp’s aides that day and promised to help, he recalled.
Within 24 hours, Seaborn said, his benefits were restored, and a representative from Georgia’s Division of Family and Children Services, which administers federal benefits programs, called to apologize.
Douglas said the governor’s office “had no involvement in Mr. Seaborn’s case.”
The insurance company did not respond to requests for comment.
Pathways enrollees must submit paperwork every month proving they had completed the requirements necessary for coverage: 80 hours of work, study or volun-
in early March to make sure everything was in order, a notice informed him that his benefits would be terminated on Apr. 1. The reason: He had missed filing an annual income statement. He said the surprise requirement had popped up on the digital platform even though his coverage was not up for renewal.
“My head exploded,” he said. “I didn’t get a text or an email. I did what I was supposed to, but that wasn’t good enough.”
Seaborn said he went ahead and filed the information, although it was late. He tried to call his insurance provider again for an explanation—and help. He reached out to the Division of Family and Children Services as well. This time, however, he said no one called him back.
In April, Seaborn paid out of pocket for his and his son’s prescription medications, an extra $40 that he said is difficult for him to afford.
Ellen Brown, a spokesperson for Georgia’s Division of Family and Children Services, would not say why Seaborn’s benefits were terminated. “We are sorry to hear this happened and are looking into how we can better serve our customers and resolve communication gaps in the future,” Brown said in a written statement. “Every Georgian that seeks our services is important, and we take these matters very seriously.”
that path difficult, Seaborn said, especially when it came to shouldering the cost of
teering. But the state says it is not verifying the information on a monthly basis—only
Meanwhile, Seaborn received a phone call that day from the same Division of Family and Children Services representative who had apologized to him after he was kicked off Pathways last fall. He said she told him she would make sure he got his coverage back. The representative did not respond to a request for comment from The Current and ProPublica.
On Monday evening, Seaborn received a text message to alert him to a notification in the Pathways digital platform. He logged on: A notice
Collins Lied About Medicaid
I am not being sarcastic: It was a relief. We all want an honest answer, and I thought I had one.
In an email from U.S. Rep. Mike Collins on May 22 at 8:13 a.m, he wrote: “… there are currently no plans to cut Medicaid funding. Also, even if Medicaid cuts were being considered, I oppose cuts because there are many people who truly need Medicaid for their healthcare needs.”
As a concerned constituent, I wrote to him to oppose Medicaid cuts. As a teacher in a school of low-income students, most of my students relied on Medicaid. As a CASA (Court- Appointed Special Advocates) volunteer, “my kids” received wellness and mental health care through Medicaid. This was good news, right there on official letterhead: Congress of the United States, House of Representatives, Washington, D.C., Mike Collins, 10th District, Georgia.
Actions speak louder than words. I’m not used to being lied to, are you? Again, that’s not sarcasm. The truth hurts.
In an earlier email, a news story had already reported a late-night vote which, with Collins’ vote, passed Trump’s “big beautiful bill” with deep cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, student loan relief to those who had taught 10 years in poverty areas, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and clean energy. Our 10th District has 35% of school-aged children on Medicaid and thousands on Medicare. Collins is not concerned about representing us, the 10th District. He is not serving; he wants to hold on to his power position.
In turn, let’s be honest, and vote him out.
Carolyn P. Gorman Athens
Traffic Cameras Invade Privacy
Across the country, cities are quietly adding facial recognition technology to traffic cameras. Milwaukee and New Orleans seem to be on the forefront of this, and while it’d be fun to spy on the happy drunks in the French Quarter, it’s still fascism.
We added license plate-reading cameras in response to Laken Riley’s murder, and no one seemed to notice or care, but this Orwellian nonsense is something else entirely, something that no one wants, and yet it isn’t stopping the purveyors of spyware from doing it. This is a classic example of governmental lying and a far- too- cozy relationship with some pretty terrible companies. If it’s not here already, it will be soon, unless we stand up to it. Write your commissioner now, before it’s too late.
Bowen Craig Athens
Hotel Is Bad for Boulevard
I’ve been getting quite a few calls about the proposed redevelopment of the UGA President’s House into a 106-room hotel. While I’m glad that a wider audience is now aware of the proposal, the first thing I’d like to do is call for measured, informative sharing of factually based perspectives. No need for pitchforks (yet). It’s a rezone, and that
process will play out as these things do. But I would like to offer my perspective.
Since the property came under the control of the UGA Board of Regents in 1949, the rear of the property has served essentially as an intown garden, of some renown, for over 75 years. And while the property does have commercial frontage on Prince Avenue, the rear garden extends a quarter of a mile from the back porch into the primarily owner-occupied single- family historic Boulevard neighborhood, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Athens.
Any new use will generate tax revenue, but will also be disruptive (understatement) to those who live adjacent to the property (full disclosure, this includes my family), to the neighborhood as a whole and to all who use Prince Avenue on a regular basis. The essential question is how much disruption is the community willing to accept?
The proposed hotel is massive, about 95,000 square feet. I did some browsing on qPublic to get an idea of what 95,000 square feet looks like, with these results:
• CCSD offices across Prince Ave from the President’s House: four buildings, 36,902 square feet.
• Hotel Indigo: 87,661 square feet.
• ARMC Prince Tower: 125,000 square feet.
Though designed to be the same height, the mass of this development will dwarf the President’s House.
I’d also like to remind folks that the character of the street, especially traffic counts, changes dramatically at Milledge Avenue, so keep this in mind when discussing “Prince Avenue.” It’s not a homogenous street.
I’ll admit to a little selfishness here, but I and many others worked for over 20 years to get the current lane configuration, which has seen overwhelmingly positive response, with two unanimous commission votes over two years to affirm that position. The current configuration will probably fail with an extra 1,000 trips per day.
With all the complaints about shortterm rentals serving as party houses in single- family neighborhoods, this is the mack daddy STR. In Boulevard we’ve lived with parties at the Taylor-Grady house since forever. However, those events are usually held on weekends and end by 11 p.m. This proposal will be available as an event space seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Think of the massive excavation required to build a 200- car underground parking garage. Even though the plan keeps most of the construction out of the further reaches of the rear garden, what will be the effect?
Construction traffic alone will be a nightmare. And it seems that every project of this nature involves blasting before digging, will that be the case here?
I understand the benefit of maintaining the house and front garden as historical resources, and Arcollab has worked hard to present a pretty picture. The scale of this proposal with its attendant costs are too high to accept that tradeoff. The Boulevard neighborhood is worth more as an historical resource than the President’s House serving as a facade to a misplaced commercial development of this scale.
Tony Eubanks Athens
good growing Inside Gardening
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF INDOOR PLANTS
By Erin France news@flagpole.com
Indoor plants have a lot to offer both beginner and experienced gardeners. Studies show exposure to indoor plants can aid in positive mental health and productivity. Though, it can be hard to reap the benefits of an indoor Eden if you keep killing your charges.
Von Kidd, manager of Foxglove Plantbar on Baxter Street, and Felipe Pedraza, a Plantbar customer turned enthusiastic employee, offered their best advice for keeping your indoor garden healthy and happy. Here’s a few tips from these experts:
WATCH OUT FOR OVERWATERING: “We always tell people overwatering is the frequency, not the amount,” Kidd said. “When your plant is ready to be watered, water thoroughly. It’s better to under- water than over- water.”
Bottom watering, where a plant is placed in a shallow tray with a few inches of water, is the best practice. “We prefer bottom watering,” Kidd said. “That helps with fungus gnats.”
Fungus gnats are dark, small gnats that lay eggs in rich soil. Once hatched, the larvae feed on a plant’s roots and other organic matter in the top two inches of soil. Keeping the top drier helps break the gnats’ life cycle.
But, Kidd stressed, it’s important to figure out what works best for you. At the shop, with so many plants, they use the bottom water technique. At home, she prefers to water from the top of the plant.
moved from a small 4-inch pot to a 3-gallon tub, Pedraza said. “You only want to move up 1 to 2 inches at a time,” Kidd added.
LIGHTING, LIGHTING, LIGHTING: Foxglove Plantbar contains enviable walls of Instagrammable draped leaves. Growing and maintaining this wall of green meant installing special lighting, Kidd said. While the bulbs themselves can be simple LEDs, the placement and amount will vary depending on the plant and the environment. Plantbar’s focal point of a giant monstera has eight bright LEDs shining on it to meet its light requirements.
It’s usually the plants on the lower end of light requirements who suffer without cause. “Low light does not mean no light,” Kidd said.
If you’re not sure how dry your soil is, Kidd suggested a moisture meter, or an even-lower cost version: a wooden chopstick. Just thrust the chopstick in the soil. “If it comes out clean, it’s dry, and you can water,” Kidd said. “If it comes out with little bits of soil on it, then it’s still pretty moist.”
BEWARE REPOTTING: “I have plants that I bought six years ago that I still have not repotted,” Kidd said.
Repotting can disturb roots, introduce new pests and make moisture levels fluctuate. In this way, indoor plants and outdoor plants are different. Many online videos warn about the dangers of allowing plants to become root-bound, a condition where a plant’s roots push soil out of the pot, and it slowly strangles itself.
For indoor plants, repotting should be considered when other conditions such as watering, light and soil are not improving the plant’s condition.
When repotting, the plant should not be
If you want to supplement your lighting, it’s as easy as popping in an LED in a floor lamp and pointing it near any sad plant stragglers. Low-light plants will not want to camp out directly in the beam, but will prefer placement off to one side or another.
PICK AN EASY PLANT: For folks with a brown thumb when it comes to indoor plants, pothos and philodendrons are a good place to start, Kidd said. Lemon lime philodendron in particular are forgiving plants. “If I forget to water them for three weeks, they’re like, ‘Hey, we’re thirsty, but we’ll bounce back,’” Kidd said.
If you’re interested in more exotic, yet still easy-ish indoor plants, Pedraza recommends picking a variety of monstera that piques your interest. Pedraza loved gardening and outdoor plants before he began visiting Foxglove Plantbar as a customer in 2023. “I came in here and saw that giant monstera and I was like, ‘I have to have one,’” he said. f
Von Kidd, manager and founder of Foxglove Plantbar, uses a bottom watering technique to prevent fungus gnats from laying eggs and becoming a nuisance.
ERIN FRANCE
25 Years of Hot Corner Festival
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
This year’s annual Hot Corner Celebration and Soul Food Festival is celebrating 25 years with a full week of festivities and events that began this past Monday, June 9. Taking place on the historic Hot Corner block of downtown Athens at the intersection of Washington and Hull streets, the festival honoring Black entrepreneurs and community leaders of the past and present has grown exponentially since its inception.
In 1999 Homer Wilson, owner of the family business Wilson’s Styling Shop located on Hull Street, formed a group to research and document the history of Hot Corner with the goal of honoring the businesses that were part of the community known historically as a prosperous area for Black entrepreneurs in the early 20th century. The Hot Corner Association was officially formed in 2000, and the first Hot Corner Festival was organized to celebrate this history.
“It has grown from, I guess we started out about 200 or 300 people 25 years ago, and it’s over 2,000 now,” says Wilson. “One thing I really like about it is that we keep it a community event, we keep the history of Hot Corner and we make it very diverse.”
Theatre taking place June 9–11 from 6–8 p.m. Each night is led by a different church group: First United Methodist on Monday, Ebenezer Baptist Church West on Tuesday and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
Gospel Choir, Empowerment Daughters of Praise Dance Ministry, Jus Sabrina Ministries, Morton Chapel Male Choir, Gospel Aires, Marcus Brown and Friends of Hot Corner Ensemble.
The all-day block party takes place on Saturday, June 14 from 11 a.m.–11 p.m. The streets at the cross- section of Washington and Hull will be lined with information booths from local organizations, an assortment of small business vendors, barbecue and soul food. There will also be a car and bike show at the perimeter of the festival.
The opening reception begins at 11 a.m. on the main stage with a flag presentation,
a special extended time this year in honor of its 25th anniversary. The full schedule of events can be seen on p. 21.
One of the special things about Hot Corner’s entertainment is that most of the acts can only be seen in the downtown area during this annual celebration. It draws musicians and genres that are not always present in the downtown music venues. When asked what about the Hot Corner Festival brings so many people downtown that might not usually feel comfortable or invited to the area, Wilson says, “There was an old saying that has always lingered with Hot Corner: spirituality. They believe in the spirit, there’s a spirit over this place and that spirit continues to survive year after year, day after day. The spirit protects us and keeps us safe.”
The Hot Corner Association became a nonprofit organization to continue the mission of preserving the history of Hot Corner. The festival is an anchor event open to everyone that keeps this history alive and invites Athens to share Black culture through a variety of informational initiatives, musical performances, local art, kids activities, soul food and more.
The week has started out with a threeday Gospel Revival held at the Morton
on Wednesday. On Thursday there is an invitation-only festival participant reception hosted by Marcel Mincey of the youth education nonprofit MEU Radio. Special entertainment includes Mikhayla Robinson Smith, Athens’ current poet laureate; Blacknerdninja (Eugene Willis), co- founder of CreativeSpace; and TR Thompson, the “Athens King of R&B.”
On Friday evening from 6–8 p.m. the annual opening gospel program will take place at First AME Church on Hull Street. There will be performances by New Grove
song and greetings from the Hot Corner Association and community leaders. The morning and afternoon entertainment from 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. is kicked off with a spiritual devotion and leans heavily toward a gospel- and poetry- filled lineup. There is a break in entertainment at 4 p.m. for an awards presentation, including a moment to spotlight community leaders.
Things pick back up from 4:30–11 p.m. with a variety of musicians from hip-hop and R&B artists to party ensembles and more. The “dancing in the street” party has
The largest Hot Corner landmark that has persisted through time is the Morton Theatre, built in 1910 by Monroe Bowers “Pink” Morton, and it stands tall as a backdrop to the festival each year. It is known as one of the first and oldest surviving vaudeville theatres in the U.S. Last month it was announced that the Morton Theatre will be included in the Chiltlin’ Circuit Heritage Trail, a project of the Georgia Historic Preservation Division, Fox Gives and New South Associates. This multi- year initiative is in its first phase of identifying and studying historic venues, but its mission is to “help educate the public about the legacy of African American entertainment during the South’s segregated Jim Crow Era,” according to a press release. As a business that has long been appreciated by the Athens community, it’s an honor for it to be recognized on a greater scale. f
WHAT: Hot Corner Festival WHEN: Saturday, June 14, 11 a m –11 p m
WHERE: Downtown Athens HOW MUCH: FREE!
NIGHTS!
-DAILY SPECIALS-
Monday: $2.99 12 oz House Margaritas OTR, $5 Blueberry Mojitos
Tuesday: 2 x 1 Mojitos, $5 12 oz Kiwi Margaritas
Wednesday: $2 12 oz Draft Beer, $5 12 oz Blackberry Margaritas, $2 Well Shots
Thursday: 2 x 1 12 oz House Margaritas OTR or Frozen, $20 Beer Buckets
Fri/Sat/Sun: 3 PM – 7 PM Happy Hour
2 x 1 12 oz House Margaritas
SUN–THURS 10:30AM–10PM • FRI & SAT 10:30AM–11PM
LUNCH MENU M-F • 10:30AM–3PM SAT & SUNDAY BRUNCH SPECIALS 255 W WASHINGTON ST. (706)850-0833
event calendar
Tuesday 10
CLASSES: Google Drive and Docs (ACC Library) Learn how to upload, manage and share files in Google Drive. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person conversation. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy craft cocktails and a taco pop-up from Don Carne with themed weeks, live music and dancing. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.livewireathens.com
FILM: Athentic Movie Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the 1993 classic dinosaur film Jurassic Park. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.com
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: Rock ’n Roll Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host The Music Man. Second Tuesdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/ baddogathens
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
KIDSTUFF: Toddler Tuesday: Under the Sea (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy art and storytime in the galleries, then complete an art activity. Ages 18 months to 3 years. RSVP by email. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu
KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Drop in and join Ms. Jera for rhymes, songs, movement, a story and a craft. Ages 5 & under. 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Crafternoon (Oconee County Library) Drop in for a craft or two. Supplies Provided. All ages. Tuesdays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly group, hear memoirs from others and learn tips on how to write your own. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 11
ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent
collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 10 a.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
CLASSES: Microsoft Word: Styles, Themes and Templates (ACC Library) Learn how to create a word document and use themes, styles and more. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com
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: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A woman plagued with psychic visions finds a corpse hidden in a wall and her husband becomes the prime suspect in The Psychic. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/bloodeverywhere.athens
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Trivia Night (B&B Theatres) Test your trivia knowledge on a variety of topics. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www. bbtheatres.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Sparkelina Storytime (Oconee County Library) Enjoy unicorn storytime with author Catherine Smith. 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Slime Night (Oconee County Library) Drop in to make your own slime creation. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
MEETINGS: C3 to End Homelessness (Hendershot’s) A roundtable discussion regarding housing and homelessness to educate, identify issue and plan steps to solutions. Second Wednesdays, 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.athenshc.org/coc
Thursday 12
ART: Artist Talk (Lyndon House Arts Center) Anne McInnis will discuss her installation “Pretend” featuring layered works on kozo paper and silk organza. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. facebook.com/LyndonHouseArts
CLASSES: Yoga in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy a yoga class in the art galleries led by instructors from Five Points Yoga.
Open to all skill levels. First come, first served. 6 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: How to Use FindAGrave (ACC Library) Learn how to use the free online resource for locating cemetery records and memorials around the world. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
EVENTS: Athentic Farmers Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Weekly market featuring vendors Diamond Hill Farms, Normaltown Bread Company, Katie Bee Honey, Flossie May Forage and Grand Designs Woodworking. Thursdays, 4–7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: BINGO (VFW Post 2872) Join in to play this weekly game of chance. Thursdays, 5 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.facebook.com/vfw2872
GAMES: Adult Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) A gaming ses-
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in to free build and create, or do one of the fun LEGO challenges. Ages 5–12. Thursdays, 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee MEETINGS: Coffee Hour (Oconee County Library) Drop in to drink some coffee, while supplies last. Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Friday 13
GAMES: Chess Club (Winterville Cultural Center) Join others for a weekly chess competition. Fridays,
Saturday 14
ART: Paw-casso Paint Party (Entangled Cat Cafe) Choose your paint, add it to a canvas then put it in a Ziploc bag and let the cats create one-of-a-kind art to take home. 11 a.m. $20. www.entangled catcafe.com
CLASSES: Improv Comedy with Matt House (Hendershot’s) Learn the basics of improv comedy. 2 p.m. FREE! xmatthouse@gmail. com, www.hattmouse.com/classes
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
sion for players of all skill levels. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Todd Henderson. 6:30 p.m. www.johnnys pizza.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Toddler Thursday (OCAF) Drop in for grab-and-go crafting, storytime or to look at art. Ages 2–5. 10 a.m. FREE! (members), $5 (non-members). www. ocaf.com
KIDSTUFF: Open Play (Oconee County Library) Drop in for playtime that’s focused on encouraging early literacy and brain building. Ages 5 & under. 10 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Aesop’s Fantastic Fables Puppet Show (ACC Library) Enjoy an all-ages puppet show by Lee Bryan featuring a mash-up of familiar fables. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
6–10 p.m. FREE! www.winterville center.com
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: Meet & Play (Bogart Library) Drop in for facilitated open play with age-appropriate toys. Best for ages 6 & under. Fridays, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart
KIDSTUFF: Flag Day Read Aloud (Oconee County Library) Members of Junior American Citizen will lead a Flag Day storytime. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Bob Ross Paint-Along (ACC Library) Drop in and follow a Bob Ross tutorial to make your own art. Supplies provided. Grades 6–12. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
THEATER: Bright Star (Town & Gown Players) A musical that explores an individual’s journey of self-discovery during WWI. June 13–14 & 19–21, 8 p.m. June 15 & 22, 2 p.m. $18–24. www.townand gownplayers.org
ebrating Pride month with a variety of local vendors. 12–5 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com
EVENTS: Oak House Anniversary (Oak House Distillery) Celebrate the distillery’s 2nd anniversary with music and more. 2–10 p.m. www. oakhousedistillery.com
EVENTS: Canvas & Chords (Bishop Park) An annual event supporting Recovery Warriors featuring vendors, face painting, food trucks, live music and more. FREE! 4–8 p.m. www.athensrecoverywarriors. org
EVENTS: No Kings Protest (College Square Plaza) The nation-wide protest against the Trump administration. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www. nokings.org
FILM: American Deadbolt (Ciné) Premiere screening of the movie filmed at Athena Studios with a reception with the writer/director and producers. 2 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. (movie), 4 p.m. (reception). $20. www.athenscine.com
GAMES: Board at the Library (Oconee County Library) A day of family with a variety of board game options hosted by Automatic for the Meeple. Registration for specific games required. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
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: Teen Anime Club (Oconee County Library) Join other fans of manga and anime to discover books, play games, snack and watch anime. Grades 6–12. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
KIDSTUFF: World Oceans’ Day (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Enjoy touch tanks with marine animals, learn about microplastics and do crafts. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/myrec
KIDSTUFF: Kids Anime Club (ACC Library) Watch anime, create art, try Japanese snacks and make new friends. All ages. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
EVENTS: Athens Queer Space Tour (UGA Memorial Hall) Local guide Rin Gunn will lead a two-mile walking tour of Athens’ LGBTQ+ history. Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30 a.m. $20. www.athens welcomecenter.com
EVENTS: PapaPalooza (Rocket Field) A day of fun celebrating father’s day with family field games, local vendors, live music and more. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! www.down townwatkinsville.com
EVENTS: Hot Corner Festival (Hot Corner) The annual festival celebrates 25 years and features vendors, an award ceremony, a car and bike show, food, speakers and live entertainment. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. FREE! www.hotcornerathens. weebly.com
EVENTS: Really, Really Free Market (Reese and Pope Park) Just like a yard sale, but everything is free. Bring what you can, take what you need. Second Saturday of every month. 12–1:30 p.m. reallyreally freemarketathens@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/RRFMAthens
EVENTS: Pride Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) An annual event cel-
KIDSTUFF: Big Family Read (Bogart Library) Discuss Cressida Cowell’s novel How To Train Your Dragon and enjoy snacks, trivia and activities. All ages. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Historic Athens Heritage Walk (Contact for Location) Join Rin Gunn for a walk exploring the people and places that have shaped Athens’ queer history for Pride month. 12 p.m. $25. www.historicathens.com
LECTURES & LIT: How Religion Happens Book Club (ACC Library) Discuss Bart Ehrman’s Heaven and Hell: A History of the Afterlife with the group. 2 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
OUTDOORS: Sunset Kayak Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-led paddle on the river and view the sunset. Registration required. 7:30 p.m. $15. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge
PERFORMANCE: High Tea: A Drag Show (Athentic Brewing Co.) A drag show hosted by Mary Jane Haze featuring Dior Luxx, Kimberly Marie Bodacious, special guest Cola Fizz and more. 9 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com
It’s farmers market season! Check out the Athens Farmers Market, Athentic Farmers Market, Bishop Farmers Market and Marigold Farmers Market.
JAKE ZERKEL
THEATER: Bright Star (Town & Gown Players) A musical that explores an individual’s journey of self-discovery during WWI. June 13–14 & 19–21, 8 p.m. June 15 & 22, 2 p.m. $18–24. www.townand gownplayers.org
Sunday 15
CLASSES: Mah Jongg (Oconee County Library) Adults of all skill levels are invited to learn and play American Mah Jonng. Every Sunday. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
COMEDY: Comedy Open Mic (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Show up and go up with your stand-up material. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/bulaatmaikai
COMEDY: Off the Clock Comedy (The Globe) Athens Comedy presents a lineup of local and touring comedians. 8:30 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). www.facebook.com/ athenscomedy
COMEDY: Funny Femmes (The Globe) An all-femme showcase featuring comedians from Athens and Atlanta. 9 p.m. $10. www.globe tavern.com
EVENTS: Athens Queer Space Tour (UGA Memorial Hall) Local guide Rin Gunn will lead a two-mile walking tour of Athens’ LGBTQ+ history. Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30 a.m. $20. www.athens welcomecenter.com
EVENTS: Father’s Day BBQ (Athentic Brewing Co.) Enjoy yard games, barbecue and more at this Father’s Day themed event. 2–8 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Trivia Night (Cheba Hut) Test your trivia knowledge. 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/chebahut
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: Bright Star (Town & Gown Players) A musical that explores an individual’s journey of self-discovery during WWI. June 13–14 & 19–21, 8 p.m. June 15 & 22, 2 p.m. $18–24. www.townand gownplayers.org
Monday 16
EVENTS: Marigold Farmers Market (100 North Church Street) Vendors offer organic produce, prepared foods, agricultural products and artisanal goods. Mondays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. www.marigoldcollectivewinterville.com
FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) After escaping a mental institution, a man instantly falls in love with a divorcée, arousing the suspicions of her wheelchair-bound son in Stepfather 3. 8 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/BadMovieNight
GAMES: Puzzle Palooza (ACC Library) Drop in to work on a puzzle or bring your own to trade for a new challenge. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
GAMES: Trivia with Marissa (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Test your trivia knowledge with host Marissa. 8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
KIDSTUFF: Monday Funday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for songs, fingerplays, storytelling and STEAM activities. Ages 3–7 years. Registration suggested. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
KIDSTUFF: Teen D&D Club (Oconee County Library) Join a one-shot game open to all skill levels, including Dungeon Masters, with a prize drawing at the end of the eve-
LECTURES & LIT: Third Monday Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
Tuesday 17
CLASSES: Google Photos (ACC Library) Learn how to edit and share your photos through the Google Photos app. 10 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: ESOL (Bogart Library) Learn or polish your English skills using Mango languages online and in-person conversation. 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
COMEDY: Monthly Movie Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) Improv group Take This! will perform an abridged version of movie favorites. Third Tuesdays, 7 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com
COMEDY: Flying Squid Open Improv Jam (150 Fritz Mar Lane) Improvisors of all skill levels are invited to practice and play together. 8 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy. 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
EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy craft cocktails and a taco pop-up from Don Carne with themed weeks, live music and dancing. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.livewireathens.com
GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/ baddogathens
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
KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Oconee County Library) Drop in and join Ms. Jera for rhymes, songs, movement, a story and a craft. Ages 5 & under. 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: LEGO Robots Workshop (ACC Library) Learn how to build real, working robots while practicing teamwork skills. Ages 7 & up. Registration required. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
KIDSTUFF: Crafternoon (Oconee County Library) Drop in for a craft or two. Supplies Provided. All ages. Tuesdays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss Horse by Geraldine Brooks with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 18
ART: Tour At Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours
feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
ART: Bad Art Night (ACC Library) Drop in to create unique art with all materials provided. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: Pétanque Class (Lay Park) Learn the basics of the lawn game pétanque. RSVP required. 10 a.m. FREE! athenspetanqueclub@ gmail.com, www.athenspetanque club.wixsite.com/play
CLASSES: Adobe Illustrator for Beginners (ACC Library) Learn the basics of creating vector art. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Townie improv that invites you to bring suggestions. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com
COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. Hosted by Noell Appling. Third Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
EVENTS: Animal Encounter (Sandy Creek Nature Center) An all-ages event with educational biofacts and opportunities to visit with a variety of animals. Registration is required. 2 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/ sandycreeknaturecenter
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: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1997 action thriller film Bloodmoon. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Music Bingo (B&B Theatres) Join in to play music bingo. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.bbtheatres. com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Under The Sea Party (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a sea themed party, crafts and a visit from the mermaid Ariel. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Just Dance Tournament (Oconee County Library) Drop in to battle other dancers. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
6/19 Third Thursday Happy Hour (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture)
6/19 Bright Star (Town & Gown Players) f
calendar picks arts & culture
ART | THU, JUNE 12
Anne McInnis Artist Talk
Lyndon House Arts Center • 5:30 p.m. • FREE! In “Pretend,” the newest installation by artist Anne McInnis, screen printing techniques are used on washi paper and silk organza to repeat the motifs of clouds and mirrors, conveying ideas about the shifting, illusive nature of identity. Shapes and forms echo across the work, with text elements added to blur the lines of what is real. McInnis is a Ph.D. candidate at UGA in the department of textiles, merchandising and interiors. She was originally a BFA student at UGA in drawing and painting in the ’80s, but dropped out and moved to New York to work as an artist after having her work exhibited at the High Museum. There, she worked in the textile design industry for decades before earning her BA in visual arts at SUNY Empire College in 2017 and returning to UGA for her graduate degree. McInnis’ artist talk will allow audiences to learn more about her process in the creation of “Pretend,” which will be on display in the LHAC Lobby Case through July 12.
[Mary Beth Bryan]
MUSIC | FRI, JUNE 13
Shawn Mullins
The Foundry • 6 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $35 (adv.), $40 Folk rock musician Shawn Mullins first became interested in music while growing up in Atlanta, taking to acoustic performance and even becoming acquainted with Indigo Girls member Amy Ray. He then went on to hone his skills as a solo performer and bandmaster of the military marching band at the University of North Georgia. After graduating, he released several studio albums before his 1998 song, “Lullaby,” from the album Soul’s Core launched him to stardom. The song became an Adult Top 40 hit and earned him a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. Since then he has also had songs featured in television shows including “Scrubs” and “Dawson’s Creek.” His song “Shimmer” was used in promotion of the 2000 Summer Olympics. Mullins’ most recent studio release is 2018’s Soul’s Core Revival, for which he rearranged and re-recorded new versions of Soul’s Core for its 20th anniversary, including both stripped-back, acoustic versions and fullband versions of the original songs. [MB]
MUSIC | FRI, JUNE 13
Caulfield
Ciné • 9 p.m. • $15
After a two- year hiatus, prolific Athens hip-hop artist Caulfield is returning to the stage in celebration of the release of his
new single, “Happy Endings.” It’s the first single from Caulfield’s upcoming album Don’t Pick at The Scabs, and he says, “Sonically, it blends raw, 2000s- style alternative guitar tones with a drum- forward, hip-hopinspired groove—a reflection of my roots as a hip-hop producer. I wrote, recorded and produced the track myself to fully capture that tug-of- war between idealism and reality.” Known for bouncing between hype bravado and sullen introspection, Caulfield’s 2019 EP release God Is Dead explored the stages of grief in a way that truly captured a spectrum of emotion. This time around, Caulfield explains this single started with a question: “Why do we still cling to hope, even when life doesn’t play out like the movies? I kept thinking about how pop culture conditions us to expect perfect resolutions; that emotional tension really shaped the writing.” Joining Caulfield for his release show are battle rapper Afro Kenobi and hardcore band Murder the Mood. [Sam Lipkin]
EVENT | SAT, JUNE 14
Queer Spaces
Heritage Walk
Register for Location • 12 p.m. • $25.75
The summer series of Historic Athens Heritage Walks is ending with a special tour through the city to celebrate Pride Month. History enthusiast and Historic Athens Welcome Center staff member Rin Gunn will be leading a walk through meaningful locations for the queer community, exploring the people and places that have shaped it and adding personal insights. The two-mile tour will include stops like Memorial Hall, where the first openly gay dance in the Southeast was held in 1972. The walk will highlight resilience, joy and activism through the years in Athens and the community spaces that help the queer population continue to thrive today. If you can’t make it to this walk, Gunn will also be hosting them every Saturday and Sunday in June through the Athens Welcome Center, with $5 from every ticket supporting the Athens Pride + Queer Collective. [MB]
EVENT | SAT, JUNE 14
Canvas & Chords
Bishop Park • 4 p.m. • FREE!
Canvas & Chords is the anniversary event of Recovery Warriors, an organization whose goal is to serve those impacted by the opioid crisis and create an active sober community in the Athens- Clarke County area. Gearing its services toward individuals in recovery, veterans and families rebuilding their lives, Recovery Warriors puts on free art and fitness programs to offer support, including group fitness classes, open mics and an art expression group. Canvas & Chords will feature food trucks, live music, a drum circle, interactive art stations, vendors and more, bringing the community together to celebrate the healing powers of art, fitness and music. Recovery Warriors Music Leader Brandon Dooley says the event “is more than just a community gathering. It’s a celebration of hope. A moment where someone who’s struggled can pick up a paintbrush, hear a lyric that speaks to their soul, or simply feel seen and supported.” [MB] f
bulletin board
Deadline for getting listed in Bulletin Board is every THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the print issue that comes out the following Wednesday. Online listings are updated daily. Email calendar@flagpole.com.
AAAC QUARTERLY GRANT (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Arts Council offers $500 grants to visual and performing artists in any medium to support specific projects that enrich the culture of Athens. Apply online. www.athensarts.org/support
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM (Lyndon House Arts Center) The AIR Program provides participants with a workspace, access and a stipend. Visit www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse for application and more information.
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJECT OPEN CALL (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking BIPOC individuals residing in Georgia to develop an art exhibition to be on display for 6–8 weeks at the LHAC. www. accgov.com/9799/ArtistCurator
CALL FOR ART (Amici at The Falls) Amici is seeking artists to share artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email an introduction and a few examples of work. careywelsh20@gmail.com
CALL FOR ART (Oconee County Library) The library is seeking local artists to share their artwork in monthly exhibitions. Email for information. adial@athenslibrary.org
CALL FOR ART (Winterville Library) Apply to be a featured local artist in the Front Room Gallery. The library accepts all 2D mediums such as watercolor, collage, textile and more. Email swatson@athens library.org
CALL FOR ARTIST (ACCGov) Seeking professional artist to work with stakeholders and government staff to create a mural for Costa Building. Submission deadline June 27. For project details, applications and other information visit website.
CALL FOR ARTISTS (MAGallery) Now accepting artist applications for gallery exhibits. MAGallery is a nonprofit cooperative gallery. Gallery Artists work one day a month and participate on a committee. Visit www.themadisonartistsguild. org/call-for-artists for more information.
CALL FOR ARTISTS (Online) JOKER JOKERtv is actively accepting proposals for collaboration from artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www.jokerjokertv.com/submit
CALL FOR ART INSTRUCTORS (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation, Watkinsville) OCAF is seeking arts instructors for one-day workshops, multiple day or week classes and/ or weekly camps for Sep.–Nov. season. Experience teaching in classroom settings and artistic portfolio/skill set preferred. Proposals submitted via www.ocaf.com/ courses and reviewed by committee members. Deadline June 22.
CALL FOR COLLECTORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The LHAC’s “Collections from our Community” series features unique collections of objects found in the closets, cabinets and shelves of Athenians. shelby.little@accgov.com
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for upcoming street newspaper. Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics and more are welcome. Email enagementcoordinator@athenshc.org for more information.
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (The Lightroom) The Athens FIlm Festi-
art around town
ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 500) Show of monochromatic works featuring Keith Bennett’s “ORB COMPULSIVE DISORDER” and Mike Landers in the Upper Gallery with “Black & White LEGO.” Through June 19.
AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy., Suite 501) Paintings by Abby Boylen that represent a song and her visual experience while listening are on view through June 13.
ARTS + ATHLETICS (130 The Plaza) Paul Leroy’s solo exhibition “Love My Way” presents a series of mixed media paintings that celebrate independent music and zine making. Through June 11.
ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) Juancho Cano’s “Fragmentario: Visions in Pieces” features paintings inspired by Colombia and the immigrant experience. Through July 23.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Blunders & Wonders” showcases Jeffrey Whittle’s latest drawings that explore nature, fantasy and material experimentation. Through June 25.
BMA AT HOME (1354 S. Milledge Ave. Suite 2) The shop’s first gallery installation features paintings by Megan Roberts Studio. On view through June. Open studio event featuring the artist on June 19, 5–7 p.m.
CLASSIC CITIVA EASTSIDE (2226 Barnett Shoals Rd.) Mad Fem’s playful and bright work is on display at Classic Citiva’s new community art wall installation. Through July 13.
CREATURE COMFORTS BREWING CO. (271 W. Hancock Ave.) Local artist Samuel Balling’s solo show “It’s Not For You” presents pieces he’s created over the last nine years as a resident of Georgia. Through July 1.
DONDEROS’ KITCHEN (590 N. Milledge Ave.) “One Day the Birds Will Explain Everything,” an exhibition of photos by local poet Mark Bromberg, celebrates the people and places of Athens through moments captured at
val is seeking submissions from the community for the upcoming Pitchfest. All formats and experience levels of film, docuseries, podcast, branded content or creative projects are welcome. Deadline June 15, participants notified July 1 and final competition held Aug. 16. One selected winner will win support and opportunity to bring their vision to the screen. Visit www.athensfilm. com/pitchfest for more information and applications.
OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for photography, ceramics and more. Visit website for availability and cost. www. accgov.com/7350/Open-StudioMembership
OPEN STUDIO LIFE DRAWING (Winterville Cultural Center) Limited registrations available for monthly Life Drawing Open Studio with nude model beginning Aug. 20. $20. Adult artists only. Visit www.drawathens.org for details and times.
PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS (Athens, GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. Panels review, evaluate and select from submitted proposals for ACC-funded public art commissions. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels
Auditions
INTO THE WOODS (Collective Artists Workshop, Watkinsville) Final auditions for musical leads Little Red Riding Hood and Jack will be June 14, 3–5 p.m. Appointment only. Performances held Sept.
clubs, festivals and more. Through July.
26–Oct. 5. Email dallas@collectiveartistsworkshop.org for more information.
RUMORS (Town & Gown) Auditions for this version of Neil Simon’s classic murder comedy will be held June 16–17. Performances held Aug. 8–17. Email info@townand gownplayers.org for specific roles and requirements.
KONG’S NIGHT OUT (Elbert Theatre, Elberton) Encore Productions will hold drop-in auditions for adults of all skill levels for this PG-13 comedy. June 23–24, 6–8 p.m. Performances held Sept. 19–28. Call 706-213-3109 or email tking@cityofelberton.net for more information.
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) Auditions and membership open to qualified musicians able
EARTH FARE (1689 S Lumpkin St.) Multifaceted artist Lance Ash’s acrylic paintings, which portray cartoon art and “ride the line between slop and precision,” are on view through June.
FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Ella & Belle make their debut with “The Netherwood Collection,” which explores grief, memory and childlike wonder through a balance of softness and sorrow that feels reminiscent of a forgotten folktale. Through June.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “Feel the Beat: Rhythm, Music and Movement” features 20 works by artists around the world and explores the connections between dance, music and visual art across cultures, histories and media. Through Aug. 3.
GLASSCUBE@INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Atlanta artist Paul Leroy’s installation “Tree of Life” will begin growing for its six-month exhibition.
JITTERY JOE’S EASTSIDE (1860 S. Barnett Shoals Rd.) Susan Pelham’s collages, oil and wax paintings are on view through June. Her work is inspired by magic realism, myths, songs and children’s literature.
LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) The Window Works series presents a site-specific artwork by Atlanta artist Michael Reese that questions the perception of the Black Body against cyanotype photography popular with architectural blueprints. Through spring 2025. • “Unbroken Circle: The Musical Threads of Art Rosenbaum” showcases the late artist’s exploration of American vernacular music through his paintings and drawings. Through June 14. • “Pretend,” an exhibition by Anne McInnis, uses delicate layers of washi paper and silk organza to explore the fluidity of identity and the blur between reality and illusion. Artist talk June 12, 5:30 p.m. Through July 12. • The summer series features seven artists across six new exhibitions. On view through Aug. 30.
MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) In “Shades of Contrast: A Black & White Art Exhibition,” 29 artists present a dramatic exhibition of 2-D and 3-D art. Though July 12.
OCONEE LIBRARY (1925 Electric Ave.) Athens Art Association has an art
to attend rehearsals and maintain preparation of music. Current listings can be found online. 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 and up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com
ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop)
The shop offers a range of fine art classes and workshops for adults,
private classes and parties, and more. Register online. www.kaartist. com
BLACKSMITHING CLASSES
(Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) A variety of blacksmithing classes for all skill levels. Visit website for dates, registration, costs and further details. www.greenhowhandmade.com/ blacksmith-classes
BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Metal Shop Fantasy Camp, Watkinsville) All ages can learn the basics of welding with a variety of classes. Cost, schedules and registration available online. www.metalshop fantasycamp.com
CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults.
exhibit on view through June 26. Various works are available for purchase. THE OLD PAL (1320 Prince Ave.) Paintings and drawings by Delaney Dusch are on view through mid-June.
THE ROOK & PAWN (294 W. Washington St.) Group exhibition “Dream Journal” will feature 25 local artists. Through June 15.
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave)
Multidisciplinary artist Robert Clements presents paintings that capture the beauty of Southern landscapes. Through June 22.
STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) Developed in collaboration with the Georgia Writers Museum in Eatonton, “Touch Grass: Steffen Thomas, Senora Lynch, Raven Waters” is an environmentally-focused exhibition that explores humanity’s place in the natural world. Through June 28. • Alexandra Huynh presents “From Tears to the Sea and Other Works.” Through June 28. • “The Madness of Clowns” is a collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures that explores humanity’s interest in clowns. Through July 1.
UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER LOBBY GALLERY (230 River Rd.)
Benjamin Britton, an associate professor at the Lamar Dodd School of Art, presents “surface potential,” a collection of four abstract paintings over 7 feet tall. Through Aug. 8.
UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “From Farms to Fast Fashion: Unraveling the Need for Sustainable Style” explores the rise of fast fashion and who pays for the cost of its convenience. Through July. • “The Golden Age of Broadway” provides a glimpse into Broadway’s Golden Age through musical posters, playbills and artifacts. Through August. • “Captain Planet: The Power Is Yours” explores the origins and impact of the TV series, which inspired young people to care for the environment. Through May 2026.
WILLSON CENTER FOR THE HUMANITIES AND ARTS (1260 S Lumpkin St) A new series of landscape photographs by Michael Lachowski, alongside a photo series of clouds, is on view through summer.
Paintings by Megan Roberts Studio are on view at BMA At Home. An open studio event will be held on Thursday, June 19 from 5–7 p.m.
Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships
CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS
(Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-person classes. Topics include “Affordable Housing Info” (June 25) and “Homebuyer Education Course” (June 28). Visit website for full list. www.athenslandtrust.org/ classes-events
CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS
(Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation, Watkinsville) OCAF offers a number of classes for all ages and skill levels. Selections include basic and advanced painting, ceramics, textile dying, fashion design and more. Visit ocaf.com/courses for information and registration.
CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS (The Lightroom Athens) A variety of programs to help build skills in photography, videography and audio production. Follow @lightroomath on Instagram for the latest updates.
COOKING AND BAKING CLASSES
(Athens Cooks) A varied selection of culinary classes offered for all skill levels. Rotating wine classes. Visit website for full list, prices and registration. www.athenscooks.com
CUBAN SALSA CLASSES (UGA Dance Building) TIMBAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels. Follows UGA closures. Sundays, 3 p.m. (Level 1) and 4 p.m. (Level 2). $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
PILATES MAT CLASSES (work. shop) Drop-in pilates mat classes every Tuesday and Thursday, 8:30 a.m. Call 706-247-4513 for information and pricing.
SOLO PERFORMANCE: WRITING & ACTING (Flying Squid) Learn how to write, develop, and perform your own original piece. July 19, 26 and Aug. 2, 9, 16, 11 a.m. $210 for all 5 sessions. www.flyingsquid comedy.com
TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS
CLASSES (Live Oak Martial Arts) Taekwondo, self-defense and more are offered for all ages. Visit the website for a full schedule. www. liveoakmartialarts.com
UGA COMMUNITY ART SCHOOL (Lamar Dodd School of Art) Summer registration now open for instructor-led classes in a variety of mediums. Email CommunityArt School@uga.edu for more information on schedules, cost and availability.
YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) A multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering yoga and therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed practices. www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.com
YOGA CLASSES (Grateful Head Yoga) Classes are offered in beginner, gentle and other styles of yoga. 10 classes for $140. Visit www.gratefulheadyoga.com for full schedule.
YOGA CLASSES (Highland Yoga) Classes are offered seven days a week. Intro offer includes 30 days for $30. www.highland-yoga.com
YOGA CLASSES (Let It Be Yoga Studio, Watkinsville) Classes are offered in Hatha, Vinyasa, gentle
and other styles. Check online calendar for weekly offerings. www. letitbeyoga.org
YOGA CLASSES (Shakti Yoga Athens) Classes are offered in a variety of styles. New student offer: four weeks of unlimited yoga for $40. shaktiyogaathens.com
Help Out
ATHENS REPAIR CAFE (Solid Waste Office) The repair cafe is seeking volunteers comfortable fixing a variety of items including: clothing, small appliances, tools and more. Fourth Sunday of every month. reuse@accgov.com, www.accgov. com/RepairCafe
ATHENS SKATEPARK PROJECT
(Athens Skate Park) Seeking volunteers and community input. Every third Sunday of the month. Visit www.athensskateparkproject.org for information and opportunities.
BRAS FOR A CAUSE (Grail Bra Specialists) Seeking donations of gently-used bras for distribution to local shelters, recovery centers and communities in need. Contact Athens Area Bra Bank at 706-8500387, support@grailbras.com
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. Contact Daniel Myers at 706-850-4025 or dmyers@multiplechoices.us
PACK WALKS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Volunteer dog walkers needed for daily interactions with the shelter dogs. Open opportunities every day, 4–5 p.m. Register at www.tidycal.com/ animalservicesvolunteer/pack-walk
PET FOOD PANTRY (Animal Services Adoption Center) The Animal Services community pet food pantry provides pet food to ACC residents at no cost. Donations always welcome. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sundays, 12–3 p.m. www.accgov.com/adoptioncenter
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. The application is available online. the biggervisionshelter@gmail.com, www.bvoa.org/boardmember
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Moms Adopting Moms) Local nonprofit seeks board members, including a chair and treasurer, to support foster children and families through mentorship and reunification. momsadoptingmoms@ gmail.com
SEEKING DONATIONS (St. Joseph Catholic Parish School) Currently accepting donations for silent auction at the fundraising event “A Knight To Remember.” Donations can be made until the day of event. June 19, 5 p.m. Contact 706-5486332 for more information.
SEEKING FOOD 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 706546-1133, ext 223.
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Athens Farmer Market) Seeking volunteers for the 2025 season to help with weekly markets, special events and more. Submit applications online. www.athensfarmersmarket.net/ volunteer
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (KACCB) Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful has volunteer opportunities that
include roadside cleanups, adopta-ramp and more. Visit www.keep athensbeautiful.org for more info.
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Shoal Creek Sanctuary) Local environmental non-profit seeking volunteers for a variety of events including invasive plant removal, plant adoptions and more. Hands-on opportunities to help plant 3000 native varieties are available every first Sunday, 1-3:30 p.m. www.shoalcreeksanctuary.org/ volunteer
TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store. Visit accgov.com/trs for hours.
TOWELS FOR ANIMALS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and hand rags for bathing animals and cleaning kennels. Donations can be dropped off at the door if it’s after hours. www.accgov. com/animalservices
Kidstuff
BRELLA ACTIVITIES (‘Brella Studio)
A variety of after-school art lessons available for all ages. Other events and programs include “Art Truck,” art camps, “Mommy & Me” mornings and more. Check website for descriptions and meeting times. www.brellastudio.com/events
CAMP PROGRAMS (ACC Leisure Services) Registration for the 2025 Summer season is now open. A variety of programs, classes and camps for all ages are available at local parks and community centers. Visit website for full list of classes, availability and registration. www. accgov.com/myrecs, 706-6133800
CAMP PROGRAMS (Athens Humane Society) “Humane Heroes” and “Junior Vet” summer camps are open for registration. June and July availability but spaces are limited. www.athenshumanesociety.org/ summer-camp
CAMP PROGRAMS (Firefly Homeschool Community) Registration for “Be Wild” Homeschool Summer Camp for students grade K–12 is now open. Programs run through June. Visit fireflyhomeschool community.org for pricing and scheduling.
CAMP PROGRAMS (Merit Music Academy) Registration for a variety of Summer Camp classes is now open. Offering Puppetry, Piano, and Ukulele Camps, with crafts, snacks and performances. Visit MeritMusic Academy.com/summercamp for pricing and scheduling.
CAMP PROGRAMS (Nuçi’s Space) Registration for 2025 camp programs is now open for June and July Camp Amped sessions, Camp Amplify recording/engineering camp, Camp Amped Half Day 1 week sessions and 1 week Sound Check sessions. Visit www.nuci. org/camp for more information.
CAMP PROGRAMS (Sweet Olive Farm) Registration for 2025 camp programs for children ages 6–12 is now open. Activities include animal care, music, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures and more. Programs run June through Aug. Visit www. sweetolivefarm.org for pricing and options.
CAMP PROGRAMS (The Studio) Registration for “Creative Kids Camp” starting in June is now open. Programs are for ages 4–8 with music, art and movement to foster creative expression and imaginative play. www.thestudioath. com
CAMP PROGRAMS (University of Georgia) Registration for a variety of
art programs for teens ages 14–17 is now open through July 18. Subjects include metals, printmaking, painting, and photography. Both daytime classes and overnight residential programs available. art. uga.edu/programs/communityprograms/uga-summer-art-camp
CREATIVE CLASSES & SUMMER
ART CAMPS (K.A. Artist Shop) Classes include “Art Card Club” for teens and pre-teens. Summer art class camp registration is now open for young artists ages 10–17. Visit Visit www.kaartist.com for schedules, costs and general information.
CREATIVE CLASSES (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Treehouse offers a variety of art-centric activities for children, such as “Art School,” “Saturday Morning Crafts” and more. Summer camp registration is now open. Check website for schedule and details. www.treehousekidandcraft. com
GROUPS AT REBLOSSOM
(ReBlossom) A variety of classes, playgroups and support groups are offered for parents and young children. Topics include birth and breastfeeding, prenatal and parentbaby yoga, maternal mental health and more. Check website for a schedule. www.reblossomathens. com
KIDS CAN COOK! (Athens Cooks) Mini-chefs can learn a variety of cooking techniques at these 4-day camps. Ages 10–13, June 16. Ages 6–9, June 23. Visit www. athenscooks.com for information including cost and registration requirements.
SUMMER THEATER WORKSHOPS (On Stage Walton) “Agents of Space Encounters” for grades 4–8. June 16–21 with a performance June 21. $95. Scholarships available. Registration and information available online. www.onstage walton.org
YOUTH BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Metal Shop Fantasy Camp, Watkinsville) Basic classes scheduled weekly for children, teens and homeschool groups. Visit www.metalshopfantasycamp.com for cost, registration and requirements.
Support Groups
ACA ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS AND DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) This support group meets weekly. Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. annetteanelson@gmail.com
ADVANCED CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (University Cancer and Blood Center) A support group for those living with advanced/ terminal cancer with the goal to find comfort, encouragement and valuable resources. First Monday of every month. 5:30–7 p.m. www.university cancer.com
AL-ANON 12 STEP (Multiple Locations) Recovery for people affected by someone else’s drinking. Free daytime and evening meetings are held several times throughout the week in Athens. www.ga-al-anon. org/meetings
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (Athens, GA) If you think you have a problem with alcohol, call the AA hotline or visit the website for a schedule of meetings in Barrow, Clarke, Jackson and Oconee Counties. 706-389-4164, www. athensaa.org
ATHENS COUNCIL OF THE BLIND (Athens, GA) Open to people of all ages with vision impairments, their families and friends. Topics include adaptive equipment, recreational
and social opportunities, and advocacy. 706-424-2794, dlwahlers@ gmail.com
BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP (St. Mary’s Hospital, 5th Floor Therapy Room) This support group for survivors of traumatic head injury, their families, friends and caregivers offers information about resources and opportunities for advocacy. Every third Monday, 4:30–6 p.m. floretta.johnson@ stmarysathens.org
NAMI CONNECTION SUPPORT GROUP (Multiple Locations) Peerled support group for any adult who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. First and third Friday of the month, 5:30–7 p.m at Inclusive Recovery Athens. Second Monday of the month, 6:30–8 p.m at Oconee Presbyterian Church, Watkinsville. www.namiga. org
NEW PARENTS AND INFANT FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP (BYL Family Resource Center) Come as you are for community, snacks and feeding advice from professionals. Babies and children of all ages are welcome. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. www.byyourleave.org
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (Multiple Locations) Do you worry about the way you eat? OA may have the answer for you. Meetings held Tuesdays, 12 p.m. at 24th Street, Inc. and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Text 678-736-3697 about Tuesdays or 706-224-4919 about Saturdays. www.oa.org
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP (First Baptist Church) This group is to encourage, support and share information with fellow sojourners who manage the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders. Second Friday of the month, 1 p.m. gpnoblet@ bellsouth.net
PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP (Chase Park Warehouses) A peer-led support group of people who understand the depth of love and grief for animal companions. Meets every second and fourth Wednesday, 6:30–8 p.m. www. vibrantbeing.net/grief-support
POLYAMORY SUPPORT GROUP (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) An open support group for adults practicing or considering polyamory or nonmonogamy. Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. $10 donation. www. revolutiontherapyandyoga.com
PREVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN (Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support) Women ages 18–50 who have been diagnosed with a genetic mutation for breast cancer (but not diagnosed with cancer) can gather for peer support and share unique challenges. Third Thursdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m. 706465-4900, loransmithcenter@ piedmont.org
PROJECT SAFE (Family Protection Center) Project Safe hosts a support group for survivors of domestic violence. Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. www. project-safe.org
RECOVERY DHARMA (Athens Addiction Recovery Center) This peer-led support group offers a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from any addiction. Visit the website for details. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www.athensrecoverydharma.org
RECOVERY DHARMA (work.shop)
A Buddhist-inspired support group for addiction of all kinds. Meetings consist of introductions, a short meditation and book reading, followed by group sharing. Open to all, especially service industry workers. Meets every Monday, 6:30 p.m. www.recoverydharma.org
SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS (Athens, GA) Athens Downtown SAA offers a message of hope to anyone who suffers from compulsive sexual behavior. Contact for location. athensdowntownsaa@gmail.com
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE (Nuçi’s Space) SOS is a support group for anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide. Meets the third Wednesday of every month, 5:30–7:30 p.m. www.nuci.org
Word on the Street
ATHENS ZEN GROUP (work.shop) Sangha sits every Sunday morning 8:30–10:00 a.m. followed by a discussion of Zen teachings 10:00–10:50 a.m. Newcomers’ orientation is the second Sunday of every month at 11:00 a.m. Other sits are held at various times of the year. Visit www.athenszen.org for schedule and information. BIKE REPAIR STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Over 15 free bike repair stations are located across Athens with tools, an air pump and a QR code for quick guides on basic bike repairs. Visit the website for participating locations. www.accgov. com/10584/Bike-Repair-Stations CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box presents true short stories shared by community members. Submit story ideas for upcoming shows. www.rabbitbox.org/tell FILM LOCATION DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The Athens Film Office, part of the ACCGov Communications Department, recently launched a new database to showcase potential local sites that could be considered for film, TV or other production projects. www.athensga filmoffice.com
GUIDED GARDEN TOURS (UGA Botanical Garden) Learn about various plants at this guided walk. Available for groups of less than 10. Every Tuesday–Friday, 11 a.m. $5 per person. botgarden.uga.edu
RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Weekly events include Open Jam (Tuesdays, 8–10 p.m.) and Acoustic Song Circle (Thursdays, 8–10 p.m. & Sundays, 3–5 p.m.). www.rabbitholestudios.org/ calendar
SEEKING VENDORS (Athentic Brewing) Seeking a variety of vendors to participate in the Pride Month Market on June 14. Contact jess@ athenticbrewing.com or visit instagram.com/athenticbrewing for more information.
SEEKING VENDORS (The Foundry) A variety of vendor spots and sponsorships available for pop-up shop event on July 12. Contact tjordan@ hotelabacusathens.com for more information.
SEVENTH GENERATION (Various Locations) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts gatherings on Sundays at 11 a.m. at Feel Free Yoga and Men’s Group on Tuesdays at 6 p.m at St. Gregory’s Church. For information: 706-3407134
SUMMER REGISTRATION OPEN (ACC Leisure Services) A diverse selection of programs for both adults and children are now open for registration. Visit www.accgov. com/myrec to sign up. Scholarships available. www.accgov.com/ scholarship
VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA) Seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive on YouTube channel, @vhsordie3030, and the Athens GA Live Music channel. bradley. staples88@gmail.com, vhsordie. com f
Celebrating Freedom, Spreading Joy
JUNETEENTH MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL BLENDS EDUCATION, ART AND MUSIC
By Lauren Leathers arts@flagpole.com
The second annual Juneteenth Music and Arts Festival will take place Thursday, June 19 from 3–7 p.m. outside Athens City Hall at the intersection of College Avenue and Washington Street. Funded by a grant from the Athens- Clarke County government and organized by the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement (AADM), the celebration commemorates the Day of Freedom—Juneteenth, the oldest nationally recognized observance marking the end of slavery in the United States.
dom of enslaved Black Athenians.
For more info about AADM, visit aad movement.org. See below for the timeline of events and activities at this year’s festival.
ATHENS JUNETEENTH MAP OF BLACK HISTORY
(ONLINE): Created in 2025 by the AADM in partnership with the Community Mapping Lab, the interactive map highlights significant sites created by or connected to Black residents of Athens following the emancipation announcement on May 4, 1865.
This year’s festival honors Black history, culture and resilience, and invites the community to participate through live performances, vendors and interactive activities. Leading up to the event, a flag-raising ceremony will be held at City Hall on June 14 at 10 a.m.
“It’s a celebration and a chance to see people from different parts of the community,” says Mokah Jasmine Johnson, co- founder and executive director of the AADM. “To learn things about Athens that they might not have known before, but also have a good time. We want to see a lot of joy at the end of the day. We want people to walk away feeling good, but also be educated about something, whether it’s about Athens historically or Juneteenth, that they might not have known before.”
Johnson and her husband, Knowa D. Johnson, founded the AADM in 2016 to combat discrimination in downtown Athens. Since then, the organization has evolved into a broader civil rights movement. The couple successfully organized Athens’ inaugural Juneteenth celebration in 2024 in just three weeks. This year, Johnson hopes to see the event grow through broader participation.
“We’re trying to have an intergenerational event where we can draw out the young crowd and the elders,” she says. “By having different performances, different speakers and mixing it up, we’re hoping to draw a very diverse crowd.”
In addition to celebrating Juneteenth, the festival will also amplify the Athens Day of Jubilee (May 4), the date Union troops arrived in Athens and announced the free-
The Arcs’ Athens Avenue PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
VENDORS AND CULTURAL
SHOWCASE (ALL DAY):
Meander through the outdoor marketplace featuring Blackowned businesses, nonprofits, community organizations, art and food by local makers.
YOUTH AND FAMILY ZONE (ALL DAY): A familyfriendly space filled with cultural games like double-dutch jump roping, sack races, bouncy houses and inflatables.
STORYTELLING AND COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
(3 P M ): Hosted by Athens poet laureate Mikhayla Robinson Smith and Linda Davis, the “Intergenerational Dialogue” storytelling session offers community reflection on the Athens Day of Jubilee and the broader story of African American history.
PAINTING FREEDOM (3:30–4:30 p.m.): Facilitated by local artist Breanna Jackson, the community mural project welcomes artists of all skill levels to paint themes of liberation, resilience and cultural pride. The final collaborative piece will be showcased online.
AFRO DANCE PARTY (4:30 p.m.): Dancers of all skill levels and age can learn traditional African dance moves and participate in line dances.
LIVE PERFORMANCES (5:30–7 p.m.): Various live performances on the main stage include Pastor Troy, Bella Blaq, Blak Pearl, Palmetto Star, Jazmin Janay, Mikhayla Robinson, Ishues, Cameron Mims, Mollytu Hott, Rites of Passage and more. Additionally, Michael Thurmond, chief executive officer of DeKalb County and an Athens native, will serve as master of ceremonies. f
WHAT: Juneteenth Music and Arts Festival
WHEN: Thursday, June 19, 3–7 p m
WHERE: Downtown Athens HOW MUCH: FREE!
VISITING THE RUINS: Chicago archival re-issue label The Numero Group has set its sights on late ’90s/early 2000s Athens group Macha. While the label itself has been pretty tight-lipped about its intentions, it has released two tracks from the band’s self- titled 1998 debut album, originally released on now-defunct label Jetset. The songs in particular are “Sama Sama” and “Light The Chinese Flower.” Macha (Josh and Mischo McKay, Kai Reidl and Wes Martin) enjoyed that rarified space in Athens music whereby they were pretty instantaneously popular and enjoyed nearly unbroken critical acclaim, and were simultaneously well respected in the indie underground. There are a solid handful of live videos of the group available online as well as a decent amount of their music, albeit in a completely unofficial way. For more information, please see instagram. com/thenumerogroup, numero group.com and instagram.com/ macha_musick.
PRODUCTIVE, CONDUCTIVE: After what has seemed like an exceedingly long wait—it’s actually been nine years—The Arcs are prepared to release a new album. It’s titled Athens Avenue, and while the full album, which will arrive courtesy of Arfus Records, won’t be out until Sept. 16, the first single, “She’s Just That Kinda Girl,” is out now. Fans of the old Arcs sound will be pleased to know that this new music fits hand-inglove with the type of power-pop- Amerindie you’ve come to expect from this crew. I’m especially partial to the synthesizer on this song, as it adds a necessary emotional component that the song would be emptier without. Find it on all major streaming services, and for more information, please see thearcs.bandcamp.com, facebook.com/ thearcs, and arfusrecords.com.
ATTESTATION NATION: Decades before there was a Rubber Udder in Athens, there was simply Udder. Existing solely between the tight dates of 1990 and 1992, Udder was composed of Sherri Brady Carter (Hall of Fame), Heather Jones Lotti and Rick Stanziale (Waylaid). The group recorded three songs with engineer David Barbe at John Keane’s studio and, when asked by Stanziale if he still had the master tape, Barbe responded affirmatively. They’re each available to stream now, but Stanziale has also formed Depose Records and these songs will see release on vinyl as well. The band is slated to reunite and play the 40 Watt Club for a release show on July 17. While I would hope there’s still a percentage of readers out there who would have heard of these folks already, I know that’s a long shot. So, know that this music is very much part of what was then an emerging heavy-
rock/proto grunge scene that owed as much to punk rock as it did the noisy art rock of the day. It owes much less to, say, the heavy metal tradition than subsequent scene entrants would embrace. You can find these directly at udder.bandcamp.com.
THE PARTY NEVER ENDS: It’s been forever since I mentioned noise project—admittedly a reductive label of convenience—partydead in this column. And that’s because it was getting very hard to keep up with the steady wave of releases, which seem to just keep coming. So, it’s time to catch up. I’m not going to go into all the releases that have come out in the past several months, but I will mention memorial beach versions which came out at the end of May. The first and last tracks of this three- track release can justly be described as television static with a beat but each embodies bliss and anxiety in a way that should be heard to appreciate. The centerpiece, the 30-minute-long “Big Louie,” is somewhat structurally similar but with nearly zero anxiety producing sections. It also only relents its smoky, static-drone for about one minute around the 23:00 mark. Now, I’m a fan of this kind of stuff, but readily acknowledge it’s not for everybody. It might also be for nobody. But if you want to test it out, go over to ericthehat. bandcamp.com.
WAX ON: You’ve got two more chances to throw on your huaraches, wax your board and head down to Athentic Brewing Co. for The Spectre of Surf and Serf Lords They’ll be appearing at the brewery Friday, June 13 and Friday, July 11. The shows run from 7–9 p.m. This is just some simple summertime fun for those who don’t take things too seriously. Expect “rockin’ beach music and swing dancing!” For more information, please see facebook.com/athentic brewing and athenticbrewing.com.
UP TO DATE: Songwriter Mary Margaret Cozart is busy calling Atlanta home these days, but reports she’s also now playing in Athens’ Your Ex’s Pets and, of course, still kicks around town doing gigs and whatnot. She’ll next play locally during AthFest at The Globe on Friday, June 20. But a week before then, this Friday as a matter of fact, she’ll release her newest single “Maggie’s World.” She recorded it with the killer McKendrick Bearden and Ben Hackett last year. You’ll be able to find it on all major streaming services as well as directly at marymargaretcozart.bandcamp.com. For more information, please see marymargaret cozart.com. f
The Arcs MIKE WHITE DEADLYDESIGNS.COM
Patrick Davenport raising the Juneteenth flag over City Hall in 2022
Stupid Soul ELIJAH JOHNSTON’S PONDERING, SUMMERTIME ALBUM RELEASE
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Despite indie pop songwriter Elijah Johnston’s move to Atlanta almost two years ago, his time spent in Athens left an influential mark on the musician, and this is evident in his soon- tobe-released album Stupid Soul. Courtesy of Strolling Bones Records, the 12- track record was produced by Tommy Trautwein at The Zoo in Athens and will be available June 20.
Johnston’s music has a penchant for Athens- style jangle while blending elements of alternative rock, pop harmonies and classic storytelling that span different eras. Rather than narrowing in on any one topic, Stupid Soul tells situational stories about life and how we manage to get by—sharing the camaraderie of existence rather than offering up solutions. Although anyone might relate, Athenians will especially find common ground with the songs about football season in a college town and fledging bands finding their sound.
TUESDAY,
“My default tendencies are towards being a little bit of a control freak. So when I find people that I trust, it’s so rewarding to let them help me and let them kind of shape the process,” says Johnston.
On Stupid Soul Johnston trades his usual deep-diving songwriting for more approachable surface level listening. Not to say that it doesn’t convey any big or complicated ideas, but it does so with an emphasis on catchy hooks and melodies. Overall it’s simplified without losing Johnston’s strong artistic identity.
“I think that living there for a long time and kind of getting my start there musically… there’s certain things about the music I liked when I was a kid that will never go away, and I think there’s certain things about the situations that I was in when I was starting to actually release and record and perform music in Athens that are kind of foundational to what I do,” says Johnston.
Living in Atlanta has sped up the pace of life for Johnston, and he says that it takes him less time to make choices in every aspect of his life, but especially music. He says he’s found it a little harder to relax, and recording Stupid Soul last summer in Athens provided a moment to slow down. It was around the first anniversary of his moving to Atlanta, so Johnston was able to reconnect and spend time with people from Athens he hadn’t seen while also just focusing on the music.
“I feel like the last time we made an album, the joke I always make is that it felt like it should have come with a syllabus attached of a reading list. This record, I feel excited that I could show it to people who have never heard my music… and they could still find something appealing in it,” says Johnston. “We had a couple mantras in the studio. We kept saying don’t play a guitar solo that you can’t hum. Don’t play anything on a keyboard that you couldn’t play on a guitar. Just simple ways of streamlining the working flow to make things a little bit more cohesive.”
Made during the Athens summertime, it’s only fitting that the album release show will be taking place during AthFest as part of the Club Crawl. Also on the bill are bands Hallpass and Well Kept, which feature collaborators of Johnston’s album. Johnston says that this release show feels like the culmination of their efforts, but it’s also like a family reunion with the opportunity to just be together with everyone again.
“It feels like a full circle moment of everything that we’ve been working towards for seven or so years at this point of us all playing together in different combinations. It really feels like a milestone rather than just sort of another thing that we’ve done,” says Johnston. f
Although the album is released under Johnston’s name and maintains his vision, he describes the process as “the best of both worlds” between a solo work and band collaboration. Joined by Gideon Johnston, Drew Beskin, Aidan Hill and Trautwein, Johnston says having songwriter- and producer-minded people in the room whom he fully trusts and respects really helped carve out this album. He says it’s easy to work with people who you feel have your best interest in mind.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11TH BEATS, RHYMES, AND LIFE HOSTED
THURSDAY, JUNE 12TH SABACHA DANCE SOCIAL
FRIDAY, JUNE 13TH WOMEN IN STEM KARMA KAT
SATURDAY, JUNE 14TH LIBBALOOPS
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.
BEATS, RHYMES AND LIFE OPEN MIC Emcees, poets, rappers and freestylers of all styles are invited to perform with the backing band playing the tempo of their choice.
MAIKAI OPEN MIC Share your music, comedy and poetry every Wednesday.
Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar athensga
HASH CABBAGE New Orleans improv rockers playing cosmic psychedelic music. 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 12
Athentic Brewing Co. Blues and Brews. 6 p.m. $5. www. athenticbrewing.com
RICK FOWLER ACOUSTIC BAND Original, guitar-driven local bluesrock group.
Georgia Theatre Rooftop
8 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com
SWILLEY Soulful rock singersongwriter from Athens. 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.
STYROFOAM WINOS Nashville trio capturing a cross-section of indie, country and folk.
ZACH RITTER AND THE ETERNAL SOUP The band that never makes mistakes.
ROWAN NEWBY Poetic and humorous Americana music inspired by ’60s and ’70s songwriting.
Ciné
9 p.m. $15. www.athenscine.com
CAULFIELD Athens hip-hop veteran who pushes the confines of
evening of gospel music featuring performances by New Grove Gospel Choir, Empowerment Daughters of Praise Ministry, Jus Sabrina Ministires, Morton Chapel Male Choir, Gospel Aires and Marcus Brown.
Flicker Theatre & Bar Shadebeast Presents. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com
DEAD VIBES ENSEMBLE Sludge metal duo fueled by whiskey and loud amplifiers.
SPOIL Hardcore band.
FIREBLOOD Sludge and Southern metal from Charlotte, NC.
The Foundry Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $35 (adv.), $40. bit.ly/ShawnMullinsJune13
SHAWN MULLINS Singer-songwriter whose Grammy Award-nomi-
CARDYNAL AND THE FLOCK An eclectic, multi-faceted producer, instrumentalist and vocalist delivering hard-hitting, witty bars and catchy melodies.
VICTOR MARIACHI Mix of soul and hardcore rap using his voice to raise awareness about the struggles of Mexican Americans.
DEAF CONDORS Experimental garage-rock group with a
modern rap with his forward-thinking topics and edgy style.
AFRO KENOBI Battle rapper with witty wordplay and smooth melodies.
MURDER THE MOOD Sludgy, hardcore, heavy-psych band based in Athens.
First AME Church Hot Corner Festival. 6 p.m. www.hot cornerathens.weebly.com
HOT CORNER OPENING GOSPEL PROGRAM Celebrate the annual Hot Corner festival with an
ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Playing memorable music from the beloved film scores and Hollywood blockbusters of legendary composer John Williams, including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park Indiana Jones and much more.
Nowhere Bar
7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar athensga PYREX Brooklyn protopunk trio. CEL RAY DIY punk from Chicago. PETER AND THE SKEETERS Local lo-fi egg punk group. OBSCURITY Noisy synth punk. Tapped Athens Wine Market
7 p.m. www.tappedathens.com
EDDIE KING Playing a new era of bluesy rock with a nod to the modern indie and alternative canons and a reputation for resonant lyricism.
CHRIS HAMPTON BAND Athensbased band performing a variety of country, western and rock dance music with line dancing during the breaks.
Wire Park
6 p.m. www.instagram.com/wirepark
TRIO METRO WITH LIZ FARRELL This piano, sax and drums trio plays jazz standards and an array of more contemporary covers with a jazz twist, featuring special guest vocalist.
BENNY ST. PEIXE Atlanta-based bass player layering and looping jazz. (10 a.m.)
Ciné
8 p.m. $10. www.athenscine.com
THE RISHIS Psych-folk featuring members of The Olivia Tremor Control.
DQE Band formed by singer-songwriter Grace Braun, formerly known as Dairy Queen Empire.
BURLY IVY Psych art rock band with loungy space sounds and midnight choirs featuring Jim Willingham, Bryan Poole, Dain Marx and Ryan Bousquet.
MARCEL SLETTEN California-born and Athens-based electronic music producer, composer and artist whose sound varies from peaceful to intense.
Creature Comforts
Brewery
6–10 p.m. FREE! www.creature comfortsbeer.com
VINYL OPEN DECKS DJ Nate and JiiG host an open decks night where attendees can bring a few records and sign up to share some tunes. Turntables and mixer provided.
BUGS EAT BOOKS Fearsome foursome that plays jangly, chaotic and surferyish indie pop.
GIRL SAINT Electronic dream pop from Atlanta.
SKIRR Jazzy post-rock band.
Front Porch Bookstore
6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook
THE HUMDINGERS Acoustic interpretations of pop and soul. Hendershot’s
8 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens. com
LIBBALOOPS Electronic musician and looping artist who loves to be silly and get “loopy doopy.”
Hot Corner
11 a.m.–10 p.m. www.hotcorner athens.weebly.com
HOT CORNER FESTIVAL In addition to vendors, speakers and dancers, the festival presents live music by Brothers ’N Christ, SHO, Jazmin Janay, The Splitz Band and more. No. 3 Railroad Street
6 p.m. www.3railroad.org
TRACY & JEFF Jazz, blues and new and old classics from the voice of Tracy Brown and the guitar and harmonica of Jeff Lustig.
BAND This established Georgia singer-songwriter’s Southerntinged music pulls from a variety of influences. Chairs, blankets and picnics are welcome at this concert in the flower garden.
Down the Line
6/18 Kate Morrissey (Creature Comforts Brewery)
6/18 Karaoke with DJ Gregory (Athentic Brewing Co.)
6/18 Little Mazarn, Keilan Aplin, Dipper Grande (370 S. Pope Street)
6/18 Jazz Night (Porterhouse Grill)
6/18 MaiKai Open Mic (MaiKai Kava Lounge)
6/18 Dr. Fred’s Karaoke (Flicker Theatre & Bar) f
HOT CORNER CELEBRATION & SOUL FOOD FEAST
HISTORY • COMMUNITY • DIVERSITY
Stage Schedule Saturday, June 14, 2025
Morning/Afternoon MC’s - Minister Clarence Smith and Barbara “Lady B” Sims
Devotion (Venus Jarrell, Sylvanus Turner and Others).……………………...........11:30 am Rites of Passage.......................................................................................................11:45 am
4BR/3BA apartment. Great Location off Macon Hwy. W/D, community pool, back deck, super spacious. Available August. $1800/mo. and $1800 sec. dep. Call or text 706-340-0139.
HOUSES FOR RENT
House in ARMC. 3BR/2BA. Central HVAC. Furnished. Hwd floors. Washer/dryer. Driveway/on-street parking. No smokers, pets. Calls only! 706-372-1505
HOUSES FOR SALE
4BR/4BA 2022 sqft, $475k, in town half-acre turnkey homestead in Forest Heights. Updated kitchen/ living area, established fruit trees, greenhouse, chicken coop & massive garden. 515 Forest Heights Dr. — Contact Danielle 857-7196393
Rent or sell your property in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-549-0301 or email class@flagpole.com.
Looking for a house or a home? Condo or land? Call Daniel Peiken. REALTOR 5Market Realty. Selling in and around Athens for over 20 years. 706-296-2941
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.athens schoolofmusic.com. 706543-5800
MUSIC SERVICES
Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428
SERVICES CLASSES
Advertise your service in the Flagpole Classifieds. Call 706-549-0301 or email class@flagpole.com.
Cooking & baking classes at Athens Cooks are fun, approachable, and great for friends and family groups! athenscooks.com
CLEANING
Peachy Green Clean! Celebrating 10 years of being your local friendly green cleaners! 706-248-4601, www.peachygreenclean coop.com
Queer-owned cleaning business - windows, pressure washing and gutters. Call/ text 469-428-2490 for a free quote!
HOME AND 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 @pablo fromseed, email pkozatch@ gmail.com or call 631-9034365.
PETS
Pamper your pup at Bark Dog Spa, Athens’ premiere dog grooming facility! Book online at barkdogspa.com
JOBS PART-TIME
Join a diverse, inclusive workplace and get paid to type! 12–40 hours, Mon–Fri. NEVER be called in for a shift you didn’t sign up for. Must type 65+ wpm. Make your own schedule and work independently with no customer interaction. Starts at $13 with automatic increases. www.ctscribes. com
NOTICES LOST AND FOUND
REWARD! Lost dog. Female lab mix, 10 years old, answers to Bootsie. Last seen at the corner of Lavender/Jefferson Road in April. Please call 706-410-5429 with any information.
ORGANIZATIONS
If you are in crisis due to domestic violence, Project Safe is here to help. Call 706-543-3331 or visit project-safe.org.
Become a Juvenile Offender Advocate to compassionately and effectively transform the lives of young people in need of mentorship and rehabilitation. juvenileoffenderadvocateinc.org
Follow ACC Solid Waste on Instagram/Facebook @ accsolidwaste for tips and resources for recycling, composting, repairs, and more or visit accgov.com/ solidwaste.
Microfiction Judges & Contestants Wanted One hundred words or fewer. Lokhuza.com/fp
Northeast Health District offers free or low-cost services to all people within our area and to promote healthy lifestyles among all members. northeasthealthdistrict. org
Vendor spots and sponsorships available for Pop-Up Shop event at the Foundry on July 12th. Contact tjordan@hotelabacus.com for more information.
VFW Post 2872. Join us for weekly Bingo nights, live music and more at VFW Post 2872 at 835 Sunset Drive in Athens!
