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city dope
Condos Whiff With Five Points PLUS, PLANS FOR OTHER DEVELOPMENTS AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued and Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com
The Grandstand at Foley got to first base with a rezoning request last week at an Athens- Clarke County Planning Commission meeting.
The property in question is at the intersection of Northview Avenue and Pinecrest Drive, across from Foley Field, UGA’s baseball field, and near Barrow Elementary School. Roswell resident Scott Weaver wants the zoning to change from a lower density residential-multifamily classification to slightly higher density RM-2 so that he can build seven townhouses, each with three bedrooms. According to public tax records, Weaver also owns several condominiums in the Rivers Edge complex on West Broad Street.
Just as he had in an email to the Friends of Five Points, Weaver talked to the planning commission about his connection to UGA, his “hundreds” of trips to Athens and his many family members who have graduated from the university. He said he was inspired by Foley Commons, a six-unit condominium complex between Northview and Morton Avenue.
Ed Lane of SPG Planners and Engineers told the commission that Weaver’s proposed development “engages the street.” The current zoning of RM-1 allows for 13 bedrooms instead of 21. Keeping the density as it is now would create “a disjointed pattern” and “a chaotic layout not conducive to ownership,” he said. In addition to seven townhouses, the developers would build a bit of sidewalk on Northview and perhaps a rooftop terrace where homeowners could gather. They would do so with “intent” and “coherence,” Lane said.
Some Five Points residents spoke against the rezoning. Mary Moore said approving “pocket zoning” like this request “is a slippery slope. My concern is where does it end?” O’Farrell Street resident Bob White walks by the site twice a day with his dog and worries that a higher density would mean losing the flavor of the neighborhood. Longtime Milledge Terrace homeowner Hilary Ruston read a letter from another concerned resident not in favor of the request. Marilyn Vickers wondered what effect it would have on Barrow Elementary School.
Planning commission member Sarah Gehring said she favors the project, saying it “is like something people with children would want to live in” and that it represents “the missing middle” because it’s in the walkable neighborhood of Five Points. A 2022 study found that Athens lacks housing choices in between detached single- family homes and massive apartment complexes, such as duplexes and townhouses. But affordability is also a trait of “missing middle” housing, and these townhouses, each with an elevator, would cost an estimated $1.2 million or more.
Planning commissioner Alex Sams was the only commission member to vote against the rezoning request. He suggested Weaver keep the RM-1 zoning “and build what your zoning says you can build. Make it better, build less units.” Rezoning the
property would increase the number of bedrooms by 50 percent. “That means a lot,” Sams said.
In addition to allowing 24 bedrooms per acre versus 16, RM-2 zoning also allows for
housing development for low-income families, artists, military veterans and college students who were raised in foster care. The first house was actually completed in March—one of several on scattered lots in East Athens—but now work has started on the bulk of the homes, located off Oconee Street near Firefly Trail. Residents with children will be part of a UGA study measuring the effect of home ownership on school performance.
Charlotte-based developer Northwood Ravin has released more information about the development currently under construction at the former Varsity location at the
other retail. Don’t fret, the old magnolia trees will remain.
Athens- Clarke County is taking public input through Aug. 3 on a Safety Action Plan aimed at reducing injuries and deaths from car crashes and making roads safer for all users. The survey asks residents for their opinions on various types of safety measures, like road diets, protected bike lanes, roundabouts, speed cameras and more, as well as how engineers should prioritize projects (high-injury corridors, near schools, in low-income neighborhoods, etc.). Go to accgov.com/safestreets to take the survey.
an additional five feet in building height (35 as opposed to 30 in RM-1), shorter setbacks and more lot coverage. [Rebecca McCarthy]
From Beer to Blocks
Nearby residents also opposed plans to turn the former Southern Brewing Co. property off Collins Industrial Boulevard into a concrete plant. Applicant Quality Block Co. is seeking a rezoning of the 15acre parcel from employment-industrial to industrial to move its facility there from its current location on College Avenue.
Planning commissioners recommended approval by a 5–2 vote, with supporters noting that the current facility has received no complaints despite being surrounded by residences. The move would also open up the College Avenue land for redevelopment.
The planning commission also recommended approval July 3 for an addition to the Southern Mill development off Oneta Street in Boulevard. The addition consists of a four- story building with 14 condominiums at the site of a former denim factory that now features a hotel, a brewery, restaurants and other businesses.
General Time also submitted a request for changes to the project at a shuttered watch factory off Newton Bridge Road across from Terrapin. According to the developer, the existing industrial structure has been compromised by years of exposure to the elements and should be torn down. The revised plans also call for scaling back retail space and replacing it with office or “flex” commercial space. About 200 apartments as well as warehouse space for Terrapin and online furniture retailer Wayfair have already been completed. [Blake Aued]
Odds and Ends
Athens Area Habitat for Humanity broke ground last week on the main portion of Micah’s Creek, a 63-home affordable
Broad Street-Milledge Avenue intersection, and despite the best efforts of AthensClarke County Commissioner Melissa Link, it will be more luxury student apartments. Link pushed through an overlay zoning district in 2019 that placed restrictions on parking and bathrooms—student apartments usually have one bathroom for each bedroom—in hopes of discouraging student housing. According to Northwood Ravin, though, the development, dubbed Magnolia, will include 179 “luxury student housing units” and “best-in- class amenities to foster student success and well-being,” including a pool and putt-putt golf course. It will also feature a grocery store (rumored to be Publix) and 14,000 square feet of
In related news, the bike advocacy group People for Bikes released its annual city ratings, and Athens’ bike network scored an abysmal 18 out of 100. That’s 1,942nd out of 2,901 cities nationwide and 44th in Georgia. Athens rated poorly in all areas: bike access to neighborhoods, jobs, schools, recreation, shopping, services and transit. Peer cities identified by People for Bikes include Portland, ME (38); Fayetteville, AR (51); and Somerville, MA (63). All of those cities’ scores have risen over time, too, while Athens’ has languished under 20 since 2018. For more, visit cityratings.peopleforbikes.org.
Candidates are lining up to run for Sen. Bill Cowsert’s seat now that the Athens Republican has entered the race for attorney general. The latest candidate is Michael Broun, a partner at the law firm Cowsert Heath. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s the grandson of the late state Sen. Paul Broun Sr. and the nephew of former congressman Paul Broun Jr. Broun joins former state Rep. Doug McKillip, Oconee County businessman Steve Strickland and former Walton County GOP chair Marc McMain on the Republican side. One Democrat, William Gaulden—vice chair of the local party chapter and a candidate for coroner last year—is also in the race. The conservativeleaning District 46 covers Oconee County and parts of Clarke, Walton, Barrow and Gwinnett. [BA] f
A rendering of The Grandstand at Foley.
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Good Trouble
JOHN LEWIS’ LEGACY LIVES ON
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
Civil rights icon and American hero John Lewis died five years ago, on July 17, 2020, but his legacy of making “good trouble” in the pursuit of justice lives on.
Born in rural Alabama on Feb. 21, 1940, Lewis devoted his life to making positive changes in the South, across America and around the world. He was arrested more than 40 times during peaceful acts of civil disobedience, and he was the youngest person to speak at the historic March on Washington in 1963, when his mentor Martin Luther King Jr. gave the famous “I Have a Dream” speech to a teeming multitude in the nation’s capital.
Lewis spoke for only about seven minutes, and he wouldn’t have taken up much time had he been allowed to speak to Occupy Atlanta in 2011. Lewis showed no anger about the snub, but later told reporters that he was going to tell the crowd, “I stand with you. I support what you’re doing.”
Lewis was given plenty of time to speak here in Athens in 2003, when he addressed a large crowd at the Athens Human Rights Festival on College Square. I was honored to introduce Lewis, and his speech was greeted with respect and enthusiasm from the multiracial audience. An opponent of the Bush/Cheney administration’s Iraq War,
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who in the name of a war on terrorism want thundered from the festival stage. “We have Georgia, not just as citizens of America, but
to remind people of all races
historic marker
The new marker for an old crime tells the
President Barack Obama awards Atlanta congressman John Lewis the Presidential Medal of Freedom in
OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PHOTO BY LAWRENCE JACKSON
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If your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and friends, and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are involved with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe for help.
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Ten Years of The Foilies
LOOKING BACK AT THE TRANSPARENCY GAMES GOVERNMENTS PLAY
By Dave Maass news@flagpole.com
Inthe year 2015, we witnessed the launch of OpenAI, a debate over the color of a dress going viral and a Supreme Court decision that same- sex couples have the right to get married. It was also the year that the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) first published The Foilies, an annual report that hands out tongue-in- cheek “awards” to government agencies and officials that respond outrageously when a member of the public tries to access public records through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or similar laws.
A lot has changed over the last decade, but one thing that hasn’t is the steady flow of attempts by authorities to avoid their legal and ethical obligations to be open and accountable. Sometimes, these cases are intentional, but just as often, they are due to incompetence or straight-up half-assedness.
Over the years, EFF has teamed up with MuckRock to document and ridicule these FOIA fails and transparency trip-ups. And through a partnership with AAN Publishers, we have named-and- shamed the culprits in weekly newspapers and on indie news sites across the United States in celebration of Sunshine Week, an annual event raising awareness of the role access to public records plays in a democracy.
This year, we reflect on the most absurd and frustrating winners from the last 10 years as we prepare for the next decade, which may even be more terrible for government transparency.
The Most Infuriating FOIA Fee
Under FOIA, federal agencies are able to charge “reasonable” fees for producing copies of records. But sometimes agencies fabricate enormous price tags to pressure the requester to drop the query.
In 2015, Martin Peck asked the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) to disclose the number of “HotPlug” devices (tools used to preserve data on seized computers) it had purchased. The DOD said it would cost $660 million and 15 million labor hours (over 1,712 years), because its document system wasn’t searchable by keyword, and staff would have to comb through 30 million contracts by hand.
Runners-Up
City of Seattle (2019 Winner): City officials quoted a member of the public $33 million for metadata for every email sent in 2017, but ultimately reduced the fee to $40. Rochester (Michigan) Community Schools District (2023 Winner
A group of parents critical of the district’s remote-learning plan requested records to see if the district was spying on their social media. One parent was told they would have to cough up $18,641,345 for the records, because the district would have to sift through every email.
retirement party. So he filed a request for the guest list and pictures taken at the event. In response, the FBI sent a series of surreal photos of the attendees, hugging, toast ing and posing awkwardly, but all with poly gonal redactions covering their faces like some sort of mutant Minecraft family reunion.
Runner-Up
U.S. Southern Command (2023 Winner): Investigative journalist Jason Leopold obtained scans of paintings by detainees at Guantanamo Bay, which were heavily redacted under the claim that the art would disclose law enforcement information that could “reasonably be expected to risk circumvention of the law.”
Most Reprehensible Reprisal
Chris Nakamoto, at the time a reporter for WBRZ, filed a public records request to probe the White Castle, LA mayor’s salary. But when he went down to check on some of the missing records, he was handcuffed, placed in a holding cell and charged with the crime of “remaining after being forbidden.” He was summoned to appear before the “Mayor’s Court” in a judicial proceeding presided over by none other than the same mayor he was investigating. The charges were dropped two months later.
Runners-Up
Jack White (2015 Winner): One of the rare nongovernment Foilies winners, the White Stripes guitarist verbally abused University of Oklahoma student journalists and announced he wouldn’t play at the school anymore. The reason? The student newspaper, OU Daily, obtained and published White’s contract for a campus performance, which included his no-longer- secret guacamole recipe, a bowl of which was demanded in his rider.
Willacy County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office (2016 Winner): When the Houston Chronicle asked for crime data, the sheriff sent them an itemized invoice that included $98.40 worth of Wite-Out—the equivalent of 55 bottles—to redact 1,016 pages of records.
The Most Ridiculous Reaction
Brad Heath, who in 2014 was a reporter at USA Today, got a tip that a shady figure had possibly attended an FBI
Richlands, Virginia (2024 Winner): Resident Laura Mollo used public records laws to investigate problems with the 911 system and, in response, experienced intense harassment from the city and its contractors, including the police pulling her over and the city appointing a special prosecutor to investigate her. On separate occasions, Morro even says she found her mailbox filled with spaghetti and manure.
Worst Federal Agency of the Decade
Bashing the FBI has come back into vogue among certain partisan circles in recent years, but we’ve been slamming the feds long before it was trendy.
The agency received eight Foilies over the last decade, more than any other entity, but the FBI’s hostility towards FOIA goes back much further. In 2021, the Cato Institute
uncovered records showing that, since at least 1989, the FBI had been spying on the National Security Archive, a nonprofit watchdog that keeps an eye on the intelligence community. The FBI’s methods included both physical and electronic surveillance, and the records show the FBI specifically cited the organization’s “tenacity” in using FOIA. Cato’s Patrick G. Eddington reported that it took 11 months for the FBI to produce those records, but that’s actually relatively fast for the agency. We highlighted a 2009 FOIA request that the FBI took 12 years to fulfill: Bruce Alpert of the Times-Picayune had asked for records regarding the corruption case of U.S. Rep. William Jefferson, but by the time he received the 84 pages in 2021, the reporter had retired. Similarly, when George Washington University professor and documentary filmmaker Nina Seavey asked the FBI for records related to surveillance of antiwar and civil rights activists, the FBI told her it would take 17 years to provide the documents. When the agency launched an online system for accepting FOIA requests, it somehow made the process even more difficult.
The FBI was at its worst when it was attempting to use non-disclosure agreements to keep local law enforcement agencies from responding to public records requests regarding the use of cell phone surveillance technologies called site simulators, or “stingrays.” The agency even went so far as to threaten agencies that release technical information to media organizations with up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine, claiming it would be a violation of the Arms Export Control Act. But you don’t have to take our word for it: Even Micky Dolenz of The Monkees had to sue the FBI to get records on how agents collected intelligence on the 1960s band.
Worst Local Jurisdiction of the Decade
Over the last decade, The Foilies have called out officials at all levels of government and in every part of the country (and even in several other countries), but time and time again, one city keeps demonstrating special antagonism to the idea of freedom of information: the Windy City.
In fact, the most ridiculous justification for ignoring transparency obligations we ever encountered was proudly championed by now- former Mayor Lori Lightfoot during the COVID-19 lockdown in April 2020. She offered a bogus choice to Chicagoans: The city could either process public records requests or provide pandemic responses, falsely claiming that answering these requests would pull epidemiologists off the job. According to the Chicago Tribune, she implied that responding to FOIA requests would result in people having to “bury another grandmother.” She even invoked the story of Passover, claiming that the “angel of death is right here in our midst every single day” as a reason to suspend FOIA deadlines.
If we drill down on Chicago, there’s one particular department that seems to take particular pleasure in screwing the public: the Chicago Police Department (CPD). In 2021, CPD was nominated so many times (for withholding records of search warrants, a list of names of police officers, and body- worn camera footage from a botched raid) that we just threw up our hands and named them “The Hardest Department to FOIA” of the year.
In one particularly nasty case, CPD had mistakenly raided the home of an innocent woman, handcuffed her while she was naked and did not allow her to dress. Later, the woman filed a FOIA request for the body- worn camera footage and had to sue to get it. But CPD didn’t leave it there: The city’s lawyers tried to block a TV station from airing the video and then sought sanctions against the woman’s attorney. f
If you thought these were some doozies, check out The Foilies 2025 to read the beginning of a new decade’s worth of FOIA horror stories.
Eastside Vietnamese With Options
By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com
ATHENS PHO (1860 Barnett Shoals Road, 706-850-0153): When the Crab Hut closed its last remaining location in the Athens area (the one on Broad Street became Juicy Crab, doing very similar things), on the Eastside, I was a little bummed. The fried fish wasn’t that great, but the restaurant had struck out on its own, adding a few good Vietnamese items to its menu. Fortunately, it’s been replaced by Athens Pho, owned by different folks, which has an entire menu of Vietnamese food. At the moment, the website (athenspho. com) isn’t up and running yet, but if you cruise by you can scan the big QR codes on the windows to get an idea of the multi-page menu.
The new place is clean and simple, but offers a lot of options. Its goi cuon are huge, tightly wrapping rice noodles, shrimp and crunchy green veggies in rice paper. Too hot to eat? These might work for you. Banh mi are listed among the appetizers and available as “special” (pork, pâté, ham, butter), char-grilled pork and egg, all with
pickled vegetables. They could be a little punchier in their flavors, but it’s rare to get a bad banh mi. Cơm Chiên Gà Xối Mỡ (fried chicken with fried rice) doesn’t sound hugely promising, but it’s beautifully done,
disc in a plate of sauce that slowly softens the noodles, topped with beef, shrimp, fish balls and vegetables, but it turned out to be fairly bland. If it’s going to be difficult to eat—and it requires some skill to pick off a few strands of noodle without sending the whole cake off your plate—it should taste like more than a less exciting lo mein. Maybe I just picked poorly. There are many other things in that part of the menu that are likely better: a stir- fried pho, noodles with chargrilled shrimp, bun bo hue (a sort of spicier pho).
with gorgeous crisp skin encasing a superlatively tender interior. There’s also a large section of vermicelli dishes. I thought the combination crispy noodles (Mì Xào Giòn Thập Cẩm) sounded exciting, a combination of fried egg noodles served as a large thick
How’s the titular dish? It’s pretty good, available in a reasonable number of varieties and in two different sections of the menu, so keep flipping pages: filet mignon, flank steak, fatty brisket, beef tendon, shrimp, seafood, chicken, beef ribs, oxtail. It’s good without doctoring to your taste with the usual packet of jalapenos, bean sprouts and herbs, but probably better with said customization. There’s also a nice section of other soups among the side dishes, including an oxtail soup (Chén Đuôi Bò) that makes great use of hunks of meat that are mostly bone. You can pick one up and gnaw on it, or you can savor the lovely broth. There’s a bar at the back of the room, but the restaurant doesn’t serve booze currently. Instead, it makes a variety of juices (kumquat- coconut, passion fruit lemonade), Vietnamese coffees and a few boba teas. Athens Pho is open every day from 11 a.m. until 9 or 10 p.m.
WILLIE B’S CHICKEN COUPE (3465 Jefferson Road, 762-315-6005, williebs chicken.com): Once promised to be a Guthrie’s, this locally-owned drive- through/ walk-in chicken restaurant has a comparably simple menu: tenders, fries, toast, sauce, slaw. The biggest decisions you have to make are what to drink and how many tendies you think you can eat. OK, so you can put them in a sandwich instead of just dunking them in sauce, but is there really a huge difference?
Willie B’s may not be Guthrie’s, but it is, essentially, Guthrie’s. As a person who has often said she really does not care about chicken fingers, I’m not sure I’m the right connoisseur here to assess the product. The distinctions among Raising Cane’s (no flavor sans sauce, annoying traffic), Zaxby’s (gigantic menu), etc. exist, but they’re a bit like debating American political diversity relative to any country with a parliamentary system: The window of possibilities isn’t that wide. Willie B’s makes your chicken tenders when you order them, and they don’t require sauce, although I suppose they do benefit from it, and there are several options. The fries aren’t crisp. The toast is far from the best I’ve had. The coleslaw is OK. The faster you eat this stuff, the better, because it tends to steam in its little waxed cardboard box, getting less accomplished by the minute. But the people are nice, the food is ready relatively quickly, you can get gas at the same time, and it’s certainly an improvement over a Subway.
Willie B’s is open 10 a.m.–9 p.m., and although it used to make breakfast, that meal is currently on hold. f
Athens Pho
art notes
In Full Bloom
By Lauren Leathers arts@flagpole.com
If you’ve driven along the northbound Loop 10 onramp from Lexington Road in the last few months, you may have noticed the orange and white traffic barrels, bright orange barriers and local artist Amanda Burk wearing a highvisibility vest while bringing her latest work, a 100- foot mural, to life.
Located off the East Campus Connector, “Georgia Flora” features gardenias, camellias and azaleas that spill across the wall in crisp, bold linework with careful detail and a retro feel. The design is based on a linoleum block print Burk created, and the leaves were intentionally kept black and white—appearing gray from a distance—to allow the flowers space to pop. The title doesn’t reference the plants as native to Georgia, but rather as ones she found Georgians commonly associate with memories.
“A lot of people start conversations about their grandmother as ‘whenever I smell a gardenia I think of my grandma’ or ‘my grandma’s camellias this,’” she says. “The gardenias, camellias and azaleas all have a very nostalgic feel for Georgians.”
Burk’s design was chosen by a community panel using a blind selection process from a pool of 25 applications submitted during a nationwide call for art. The project was funded by Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), a 1% sales tax approved by voters that funds a variety of capital improvement projects, including public art, and facilitated by the Athens- Clarke County Leisure Services Arts Division.
ON GREENWAY
comes with mural making—but working on the side of a highway was new territory.
“I was worried about things that people might yell at me that might be kinda a bummer, and debris coming off the road,” she says. “But for the most part, people would give me a beep on their car horns and shout sweet things. I was really pleased with how the interaction with the public was.”
Still, the visibility took some getting used to.
teach printmaking, bookmaking and papermaking at the collegiate level. She later opened two print shops of her own: Double Dutch Press (2012–2016) and Flat File Print Shop (2022–2024), where she taught classes, provided studio space for printmakers, offered screen services for screen printers, graphic design services and sold limitededition hand-printed prints.
She stumbled into painting murals after designing Automatic Pizza’s logo. “They asked me to paint the logo on the side of the building,” she says. “Then Bain [Mattox], the owner of Automatic and Normal Bar, asked me to paint a second mural—a giant slice of pizza—on the building, and it just kind of snowballed from there.”
She was then asked by Half- Shepherd Market (now closed), Boulevard Animal Hospital and more to bring her work to their walls.
“I didn’t know how to [paint murals] beforehand, but just kind of figured it out,” Burk says. “I can’t exactly put it into words, but something about printmaking and graphic design— being able to figure out ratios, scale things up or down and know what will work on a certain surface— those were all tools in my toolbox that helped with mural making.”
It’s the second large- scale piece on the Oconee Rivers Greenway, a linear park and trail system, joining Elaine Stephenson’s “Water is Life,” an immersive underpass design beneath the North Oconee Access Road bridge that features water and wildlife.
Going into the project, Burk wasn’t sure what to expect. She’d painted on walls before and endured the elements—it
“Painting and art making in general is kinda a private thing for a lot of artists,” she says. “So having people watch you figure out what you’re doing and painting is like having someone watch you while you sleep. I’m in a private headspace, and then cars are there.”
The daughter of an art teacher, she says becoming an artist was inevitable. She’s spent most of her life creating and exploring different mediums. After earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in printmaking, she went on to
A common thread in Burk’s work is the feeling of nostalgia, inviting viewers to connect through their own memories and interpretations.
“My personal artwork deals with nostalgia,” she says. “Inanimate objects that often have associations for a wide swath of people. I like when people see something and associate a specific memory with what they’re looking at—classic folding lawn chairs, old rotary phones, things like that.”
Regardless of the medium, her bold use of color and ability to create connection shine through.
“I think there’s not enough whimsy in the world,” she says. “I’m attracted to things that are whimsical and humorous.”
As for what’s next, Burk plans to focus more on her personal art after years of teaching others. Her next mural is set to be at Nové Město, a small brewpub brought to you by the owners of Hi-Lo that’s coming to Barber Street in the Atlas Building (near Hidden Gem). She’s also started to apply to paint murals nationwide to bring her whimsical style art to even more cities and towns around the country. Click over to instagram.com/ourladyofmurals to follow along. f
The Familiar Strange Album Release
PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
GREETINGS FROM NICA-ROCK-UA: Former Athens musician David Lamb (no relation) has been kicking around in Central America for over a year now with no plans to move back to the U.S. He’s had a ton of adventures, been the victim of a lot of crime, and been hit on his motorcycle and broken three ribs and his clavicle, among other experiences. Still, he’s managed to release the new EP Pieces under the project name Vanity Glare. Opening song “Vanity Things” is a fist-pumping, sing-along glam rock number that leads straight into the electro-pop OMD-isms of “I Can’t Stop Thinking About You,” each of which fulfills its individual task. He told me via email that his musical goal when starting six years ago was to create a massive sound. So far he’s pretty much there, and that’s not a schlubby achievement for someone who records everything on his phone with GarageBand. He slides into some Nine Inch Nails territory with “Comfort Of The Night,” and the similarity is a little much at times. He breaks this tendency down in the final song, “Running In Circles,” albeit its chorus can trace its heritage directly to Tears For Fears’ “Mad World.” He reports he’s going to visit the United States to tour sometime in October. Take a few minutes and check this out on Spotify where he’s got another couple of collections of songs as well.
open at 5 p.m. (!) and music starts at 5:30 p.m. This whole show is a mere $12, which is exactly .666 cents per band, so don’t go ’round being devilish and trying to get in free. There’s also a free after party at The World Famous that night featuring Obscurity, CKI, Rauncher and Spectral Body. For tickets and more information, please see 40watt.com.
THE THRILL OF IT ALL: The Familiar Strange, the brainchild and project of songwriter Daniel Hogan, released its first album in two years, and it’s named Is God In There?. This 12- song record opens in full aural CinemaScope with “Love Is Just Around The Corner” upon which any reasonable listener will observe Bowie’s fingerprint. The ridiculous hook-oriented “I Don’t Want To Be Shitty” has a complicated yet still sort of straightforward arrangement. The romantic bedsit hymn “At Odds” moves along at a quick clip, and “None Of The Above” is an indie rock tune of the sort that used to be easily found on college radio. This whole record is a clever collection of tight tunes and clear production and worth more than a single spin, so go find this at thefamiliarstrange.bandcamp.com.
PUSHERMEN: New-ish Athens hardcore band Arms Dealer—featuring members of Snuki, Delta 8, Beer Piss and Regulator— released its single track demo a couple of weeks back. It’s titled War Machine, runs just over four minutes long, and while it may be a single track, within that track are four songs. Each one lives up to both the band’s name and the demo’s title. Pretty sure I broke a sweat just listening. This particular release is a little outside the hardcore that label Hard Tack has released thus far. There’s more than a decent nod to classic thrash crossover stuff like Crumbsuckers, Hallows Eve and even newer projects like Toxic Holocaust. None of these are a oneto-one comparison, but should help map the road out a little for ya. Find this at hard tackk.bandcamp.com.
NAME UNRELATED: Promoters Most Known Unknown will present a whopper of a bill Saturday, July 26 at the 40 Watt Club. They’ve titled the event Threats & Promises, but it really looks like a truckload of promises only. The full lineup includes the aforementioned Arms Dealer, Big Trouble, Centipede, Chloride, Coffee Stain, Confusion’s Prince, Coyote, Dark Vaughn, Magic Cross, Multiple Miggs, Pollute, Refuse to Thrive, Regulator, Rosary, Spoil, U.S. Gas and Whiphouse. Doors
ONCE MORE FROM THE HEART: The Arcs are gathering steam behind the band’s upcoming album Athens Ave, which will arrive courtesy of Arfus Records on Sept. 16. As part of this momentum, the band just released its next pre-release single from the record, and it’s named “Get Out Of Town.” From its opening riff you’d think it would pick up some speed after its intro, but it maintains its mid- tempo pacing for the entirety of the song’s main section, then retreats slightly around the four-minute mark, and then closes out the whole last minute with the same riffage it arrived with. Find this at thearcs.bandcamp.com, and for more information, please see arfus records.com.
SIGN ’EM UP!: Artist applications are now open for the 2026 South By Southwest conference in Austin, TX. The 2026 event will happen Mar. 12–18. While the longrunning event has promised that its new re- working of the conference to allow each track to overlap—music, film and technology will all occur in the same span of days— will mean a whole extra day for music programming, the results are, obviously, not yet in. That said, it is highly competitive to be accepted to perform at SXSW officially and there are some specific inquiries interested artists will need to address (e.g. your goals for performing at SXSW, touring history, etc.). If you’re interested, please head over to sxsw.com/apply and give it a go. f
The Familiar Strange
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live music calendar
Tuesday 8
Hendershot’s
No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.”
WES PARKER Uneasy, fuzzed out indie musician from Richmond, VA with a polished and lyrical flair.
HONEYKNIFE Atlanta alt-rock known for live shows with untamed energy.
YOUR EX’S PETS Alternative indie rock featuring members of Dadgum, Jake Brower Band and Liz Farrell. Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. www.athensfarmersmarket.net
MAIKAI OPEN MIC Share your music, comedy and poetry every Wednesday. 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.
TEXAS TORNADOES Texas country music tribute show featuring Josh Walker, Todd Cowart, Blank Canvas and Clay Leverett covering the likes of Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, George Strait, Robert Earl Keen Jr., Steve Earle and more. Save $5 at the door if you come in cowboy boots or a cowboy hat.
Nowhere Bar
7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). $15. www.instagram.com/nowhere barathensga SHEHEHE Local band that draws from old-school punk and arena rock to create a fist-pumping atmosphere.
MEGA COLOSSUS Twin guitar leads like an eagle screeching through space, fantasy inspired lyrics from the dustiest old book collection, and the raw power of metal.
TOTALLY SLOW Razor sharp, no-frills melodic hardcore from Greensboro, NC.
WYLD STALEYZ Self-described hot blooded, ball clenching power rock band from Athens.
TERRY’S DOLMEN Project featuring Graham Ulicny of Reptar and Thick Paint.
DIPPER GRANDE Alt-cosmic music from Athens. DADGUM Jazz-pop for enlarged hearts.
Monday 14
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.
Tuesday 15
Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets from his catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.”
Normal Bar 8–11 p.m. FREE! booking@rudy montayremusic.com
OPEN MIC All musicians welcome. Every Tuesday. State Botanical Garden of Georgia Sunflower Concert Series. 7 p.m. $12 (ages 5–16), $26. botgarden. uga.edu
NEW ORLEANS JAZZ STOMPERS Specializing in the historic “hot” syncopated dance music of the early 20th century. Chairs, blankets and picnics are welcome at this concert in the flower garden.
Wednesday 16
Athentic Brewing Co.
7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Every Wednesday. Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. www.athensfarmersmarket.net
BENNY ST. PEIXE Atlanta-based bass player layering and looping jazz. (6 p.m.)
MaiKai Kava Lounge
7:30 p.m. (sign-ups). FREE! www. instagram.com/bulaatmaikai MAIKAI OPEN MIC Share your music, comedy and poetry every Wednesday. Porterhouse Grill 7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast.
Down the Line
7/17 The Reverend Conner Tribble (Athentic Brewing Co.)
DJ CHARLIEFLOWER Eclectic DJ into trance, ambient, synth pop, new wave, deep house and more.
Sunday 13
Five Bar 11 a.m.–2 p.m. www.five-bar.com
SWING THEORY Local jazz trio playing brunch every Sunday. The Globe 4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens
TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION Easy listening traditional Irish music.
7/17 Mary & The Hot Hotty-Hots (The Globe)
7/17 Dead Cool, Idol Talk, Gorgeous Beast, DJ Tomb Lily (Flicker Theatre & Bar)
7/18 Interstellar Echoes (Georgia Theatre)
7/18 KIT, Meghan Dowlen, Nicholas Mallis and the Borealis (40 Watt Club)
7/18 Regulator, Derby, Violent Violet, Rubber Udder, OCEANEATER, PissGirl, Bone Bag (1127 Oconee St.)
7/18 Real Wow, Blab School, Father Werewolf (Flicker Theatre & Bar) f
Sophie the Stray will perform at Nowhere Bar on Saturday, July 12.
NASH BASH COLLECTIVE
event calendar
Tuesday 8
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
CLASSES: Unlocking the Past (ACC Library) Learn how to find and use historic city directories for research. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
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: Animal Encounter (Sandy Creek Nature Center) An all-ages event with educational biofacts and opportunities to visit with a variety of animals. Registration required. 2 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/sandy creeknaturecenter
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: OLLI Summer Film Festival (Ciné) This weekly film festival featuring road trip movies sponsored by OLLI presents Nebraska Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. $8. www. athenscine.com
FILM: Athentic Movie Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the seasonal space invaders classic Independence Day. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.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: Tunes and Tones (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: 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: Book Launch
(The Taylor-Grady House) Celebrate the release of author and historian
Stephen Jackson’s Preston Chronicles Trilogy with Southern food and drinks. RSVP required. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! isaac@newaboa.com
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 9
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
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
EVENTS: Bring Your Own Vinyl Cocktail Party (Hendershot’s) Bring your own vinyl to play, and enjoy the musical treasures others have to share. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A masked biker rides into town during spring break and leaves electrocuted coeds in their wake in Nightmare Beach. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/blood everywhere.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: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Bluey and Balloons (Oconee County Library) Join Bluey for a morning of crafts and balloon animals created by Tater the Clown. 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Stories Color Our World (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for an afternoon of colorful tales from around the world. Best for kindergarten & up. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Wash Your Hands After (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Readings from Athens writers featuring Ben Allee, CJ Bartunek, Will Donnelly, Dave Fitzgerald, Noah Isherwood, Colter McWhorter, Jordan Rothacker and Jordan Stepp. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
KIDSTUFF: Pancake Art (Oconee County Library) Get creative with batter and make edible art. Grades 6–12. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.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 10
ART: Opening Reception (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Exhibition “This ’n’ That” featuring works by Lydian
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 session 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
days, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Friday 11
CLASSES: DIY Book Binding (Oconee County Library) Create your own notebooks and booklets in this hands-on workshop. Supplies provided. Registration required. Ages 18 & up. 4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
COMEDY: Brad Williams (The Classic Center) Stand-up comedian appearing on TV and in movies on “The Growth Spurt Tour.” 7 p.m.
Brambila and Steph Rivers will be on view with refreshments. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
EVENTS: Planet Earth Rocks and Crystals Warehouse Sale (Planet Earth Rocks and Crystals) The warehouse is open to the public to browse over 6,000 square feet of crystals and specimens. July 10–11, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. July 12, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.facebook.com/ planetearthrocksandcrystals
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
EVENTS: Supper Club (Farmview Market) Celebrate the month of July with a barbecue supper. 4:30–7 p.m. $14.99 & up. www.farmview market.com
EVENTS: Cura Grand Opening (Creature Comforts Brewery) Celebrate the opening of the brewery’s downstairs craft cocktail lounge. 5–10 p.m. www.creaturecomforts beer.com
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: Drumming with Dr. Arvin Scott (ACC Library) Learn about drumming and rhythm. All ages. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
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
OUTDOORS: Social Ride – No Drop
(Dudley Park) A leisurely-paced group bike ride through sections of the North Oconee River Greenway and/or Firefly Trail. Ages 8 & up. Registration required. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.accgovga.myrec.com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tues-
OUTDOORS: Creek Critters Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Experience hands-on stream ecology while hiking along Beaver Creek. 1 p.m. $5. www.gastate parks.org/WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Tree ID Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about local plant life on a guided walk. 3 p.m. $5. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
Saturday 12
CLASSES: Nature Journal (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Make your own field journal. 11 a.m. $5. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge
CLASSES: Shelter Building (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn the basics of primitive shelter building in the woods. 3 p.m. $5. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge CLASSES: Capricorn Full Moon Flow & Mantra Sound Bath (Shakti Power Yoga) Radha Rose and Lucy host this relaxing session. 7:25 p.m. $25–45. www.shaktiyoga athens.com
EVENTS: Annual Cottage Classic Golf Tournament (UGA Golf Course) Enjoy breakfast, beverages on the course and a catered lunch. Proceeds benefit The Cottage Sexual Assault Center & Children’s Advocacy Center. 7:30 a.m. (registration), 8:15 a.m. (tee-off). $150. www.give butter.com/2025cottageclassic
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
$26–121.50. www.classiccenter. com
EVENTS: Planet Earth Rocks and Crystals Warehouse Sale (Planet Earth Rocks and Crystals) The warehouse is open to the public to browse over 6,000 square feet of crystals and specimens. July 10–11, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. July 12, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.facebook.com/ planetearthrocksandcrystals
FILM: The Goonies (Madison Morgan Cultural Center) Screening of the classic family movie on the front lawn. 8:30 p.m. $5 (nonmembers), FREE! (members). www. mmcc-arts.org
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: Diamond Art (ACC Library) Make beautiful diamond artwork to take home. Grades 6–12. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
OUTDOORS: Morning River Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-led morning paddle on the river. Registration required. 9:15 a.m. $15. www.gastateparks. org/WatsonMillBridge
EVENTS: Planet Earth Rocks and Crystals Warehouse Sale (Planet Earth Rocks and Crystals) The warehouse is open to the public to browse over 6,000 square feet of crystals and specimens. July 10–11, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. July 12, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.facebook.com/ planetearthrocksandcrystals
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: Founder’s Day Celebration (Steffen Thomas Museum of Art) There will be a screening of Rock & Chisel, new exhibit opening, award ceremony, food, beverages, raffles and more. 4–7 p.m. $100 (members), $125 (non-members). www.steffenthomas.org
FILM: Tokusatsu Club (ACC Library) Screening of the 1996 sci-fi comedy film Ultraman Zearth. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
FILM: Jimmy and Stiggs Do America: The Roadshow (Ciné) Screening of the horror film Jimmy and Stiggs followed by a Q&A with writer, director and actor Joe Begos. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.horror sectionstudios.com
Comedian Brad Williams will perform at The Classic Center on Friday, July 11.
WILL BYINGTON
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: Star Wars Day (ACC Library) Meet Star Wars characters, take pictures and make crafts. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
KIDSTUFF: Chess Tournament (Oconee County Library) Stop by for an informal tournament open to all skill levels. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Big Family Read (Bogart Library) Discuss J.K. Rowling’s novel Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and enjoy snacks, trivia and activities. All ages. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
MEETINGS: African American Genealogy Shared Interest Group (ACC Library) Learn and share research stories, problemsolving techniques, and tools that are focused on African American genealogy. 10 a.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. 8:30 p.m. $15. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge
PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Drag For All (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a fabulous night of open drag fun for all ages celebrating the life of Miss Pam. 8–11 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirlcabaret. com
PERFORMANCE: High Tea: A Drag Show (Athentic Brewing Co.) Mary Jane hosts a fabulous and hilarious night of drag entertainment. 9:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
Sunday 13
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
EVENTS: Breastfest (Athentic Brewing Co.) This breast cancer awareness fundraiser will feature local health organizations and partners, specialty slush and cocktails, a silent auction and more. 2–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Trivia Night (Cheba Hut) Test your trivia knowledge. 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/chebahut
MEETINGS: NE Georgia Civil War History Roundtable (Oconee County Library) This roundtable hosts guest speakers that discuss topics relating to Civil War history. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
OUTDOORS: Morning River Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-led morning paddle on the river. Registration required. 9:15 a.m. $15. www.gastateparks. org/WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: A Bridge to the Past (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about history of Watson Mill Bridge with a tour through the longest covered bridge in Georgia plus visits to the old mill and power
OUTDOORS: Tree ID Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about local plant life on a guided walk. 3 p.m. $5. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
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
Monday 14
CLASSES: Vietnamese Class (Oconee County Library) Instructor Martine Thy Nguyen will lead a class on the basics of Vietnamese. 6–7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
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.marigoldc ollectivewinterville.com
EVENTS: Second Monday Line Dancing Lessons (Ciné) Learn two to three line dances. All ages, no experience required. 6:30–7:30 p.m. (beginner lesson), 7:30–9 p.m. (social dancing). $10. www. athenscine.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: STEAM Monday (Oconee County Library) All ages are invited to help with two science experiments. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
MEETINGS: Classic City Rotary (1430 N Chase St) The local chapter meets weekly. Mondays, 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.classiccityrotary.org
MEETINGS: Pen Pals Writing Group (Oconee County Library) Meet other writers, share your writing experiences and get feedback on your work. Second & fourth Mondays, 5 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
Tuesday 15
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
FILM: OLLI Summer Film Festival (Ciné) This weekly film festival featuring road trip movies sponsored by OLLI presents Paul. Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. $8. www.athenscine.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: 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
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 16
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
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: 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: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 2002 sports comedy film Ping Pong. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.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: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Pete the Cat Meet & Greet (Oconee County Library) Enjoy storytime, crafts and a scavenger hunt plus a visit by Pete the Cat. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
KIDSTUFF: Art Olympics (Oconee County Library) Teens compete for the crown in various speed art competitions. Grades 6–12. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee f
One of guitarist Shane Parish’s specialties is turning songs from a variety of genres into emotive, complex soundscapes. His newest record, Solo at Cafe OTO, is his first self-released LP and features six such interpretations. Two of the songs are British folk ballads, one is a cut from the “Twin Peaks” soundtrack written by Angelo Badalamenti and David Lynch, and the rest are American folk ballads by John Jacob Niles. Parish was drawn to these songs because of their atmospheric qualities, which he further intensifies in his versions, recorded on a Fender Squier Telecaster at the titular London cafe at a sold-out show on tour with the Bill Orcutt Guitar Quartet in 2023. Parish differentiates this album from his more tight-knit arrangements on last year’s release, Repertoire, saying “the melody of the ballad is a catalyst for discovery, allowing the song to steer the ship, and occasionally pulling ashore to tarry in a tide pool.” He will play this album release show with Ashville/Atlanta band Tongues of Fire, Asheville band Porcelain Parrot, who is also celebrating an EP release, and local band Johnny Falloon. [Mary Beth Bryan]
MUSIC | SAT, JULY 12
David Nail
Noise Mountain is one such local band, composed of veterans of the Athens punk scene who draw from the midwestern alternative sound of the ’80s and the mid-tempo punk of the ’90s. Post-metal group Frisson is also based in Athens, claiming humbly to have been “voted worst metal band in Athens three years in a row.” Slumbering Sun is the only out-of-towner for this show, a traditional and melodic doom band hailing from Texas. Its members come from other underground bands, including Temptress, Destroyer of Light and Monte Luna. [MB]
Missouri-born country artist David Nail is currently touring the U.S. ahead of the release of new material later this summer. Nail first began recording music in 2002, with his lead single “Mercury” charting on Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks despite the album to which it belongs having never been commercially released. In 2009 he officially debuted with I’m About to Come Alive, praised for its emotional depth and honesty. The album features the song “Turning Home,” for which Nail was nominated for a Grammy Award for Male Country Vocal Performance. Since the success of his debut album, he has released three more solo studio albums and a successful EP called Best of Me in 2023. His new single, a cover of Bruce Cockburn’s “Pacing the Cage,” was produced for the film Take No Prisoners, which premiered at SXSW this year. Nail’s upcoming music promises to reinvent his sound while maintaining the vulnerability and authenticity he is known for. [MB]
MUSIC | SAT, JULY 12
Noise Mountain, Slumbering Sun, Frisson
Flicker Theatre & Bar • 8:30 p.m. (doors) • $12
Local booking and promotion company
Shadebeast is putting on a show this week featuring three heavy bands from the South: Noise Mountain, Slumbering Sun and Frisson. Since beginning as a record shop in 2017, Shadebeast has evolved into a heavy metal artist collective, valuing authenticity over mainstream acceptance as it bolsters talents both local and otherwise.
Jimmy and Stiggs is the debut feature film of production company The Horror Section, founded by filmmaker and actor Eli Roth in partnership with Media Capital Technologies (MCT). The film is currently on a “roadshow” promo tour across the U.S. featuring private screenings followed by a Q&A with writer, director and actor of the film Joe Begos. Jimmy and Stiggs was shot over four years on gritty 16mm film and incorporates “some of the most insane practical effects ever committed to film,” according to its press release. In a drug-fueled fever dream rollercoaster, an out-of-work filmmaker (Joe Begos) spirals into madness after an alleged alien abduction and recruits the aid of his old friend (Matt Mercer) to prepare for war in this over-the-top frenzy of a film. Tickets can be reserved at horrorsectionstudios.com. [Sam Lipkin]
MUSIC | TUE, JULY 15
Sunflower Concert Series
State Botanical Garden of Georgia • 7 p.m. • $24 (adv.), $26
The Botanical Garden’s Sunflower Concert Series recently returned for another year inviting the public to enjoy an evening of music among the flowers. Next up in the series is The New Orleans Jazz Stompers, a traditional 20th century jazz band featuring lead vocalist Liam Parke. In addition to the music, each ticket includes snacks and beverages, and guests are also encouraged to bring picnic dinners and blankets or chairs. Discounted tickets are available for attendees under 16, as well as season passes for those who wish to attend the whole series. Later dates in the Sunflower Concert Series include Beatles tribute band Abbey Road LIVE! on Aug. 10, and ’80s college rock and new wave cover band The 80’s Walkmen on Sept. 16. Each show will be held in the Flower Garden, or at the Visitor Center and Conservatory in the case of inclement weather. [MB] f
Shane Parish PETRA CVELBAR
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.
ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform to connect creatives with patrons. Visual artists, musicians, actors, writers and other creatives are encouraged to create a free listing. www.athenscreatives.directory
BIPOC ARTIST/CURATOR PROJ-
ECT 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 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) JOKERJOKERtv 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 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 enagement coordinator@athenshc.org for more information.
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
art around town
ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 500) Photographer Terry Allen presents “Passenger Side,” a collection that ranges from street photography to landscapes. In the Upper Gallery, Grace Lang and Mason Pearson showcase “The Nuclear Age: 2018–2025,” a seven-year photographic chronicle of the band Nuclear Tourism. Through Oct. 1.
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.) In “upstage / downstage” photographer Chase Brantley observes his fellow performers in their inbetween moments, capturing their unguarded transitions between stage and backstage, upstage and down. Through Aug. 25.
AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) Twenty landscape paintings by Greg Benson are on display through August.
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.
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 clubs, festivals and more. Through July.
FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) “This ’n’ That” presents original works by Steph Rivers and Lydian Brambila. Rivers presents a series of drawings and Brambila will showcase a knitted shawl and illustrations. On view through July. Opening reception July 10, 6–8 p.m.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “Feel the Beat: Rhythm, Music and Movement” features 20 works by artists around the world and explores
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
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) Auditions and membership open to qualified musicians able to attend rehearsals and maintain preparation of music. Current listings can be found online. www. athenssymphony.org/openings
Classes
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
ART CLASSES (Lauren Adams Artist) Paint with local professional artist in Eastside Studio. Day and evening classes include “Intermediate Watercolor” and “Acrylic 101.” More info: www.laurenadamsartist. com, 404-913-3597.
CANOPY CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio. org, www.canopystudio.org/ outreach/scholarships
CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS (Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-person classes. Topics include “Affordable Housing Info” and “Homebuyer Education Course.” 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
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 information.
Help Out
ANIMAL SERVICES VOLUNTEER (Animal Services Adoption Center) Volunteers needed for daily interactions with the shelter dogs. Sessions run Monday through Friday, no experience required. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Register at www.tidycal.com/animalservices volunteer for training.
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.
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.
HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) Paintings by Johnny Reynolds that reflect his love of music and unique perspective are on view through July.
LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) “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. Through July 12. • The summer series features seven artists across six new exhibitions. On view through Aug. 30. • In the Lukasiewicz Gallery, Chris Moss and Sue Fox’s “Habit” offers parallel explorations of form and color, playing with the viewer’s perception, concealing and revealing forms of common imagery amongst a camouflage of multifaceted hues. The two have not met prior to the opening of this exhibition. Through Oct. 11. • An exhibition by Cuban-born artist Victor Francisco Hernandez Mora features vivid illustrations of Orishas—West African deities tied to nature and daily life— found in belief systems across Africa, the Caribbean and the Americas. On view in the North Gallery through Oct. 11. Family day book reading Aug. 9, 12–2 p.m.
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 CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) In the Main Gallery, “Member’s Exhibition” features a variety of styles and mediums. Through July 25. • In the Members’ Gallery, Lindsay Swan’s work explores the intersection of the unreal and the psychological, weaving together vivid imagery that challenges and inspires. Through July 25. • Nancy Evelyn’s “Patchwork Memories: A Family Quilt in Paintings” features 42 canvas panels, each inspired by a personal memory of someone who shaped her life. Each honors gratitude, connection and legacy. Through July
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.
ART SUPPLIES (Classic Center Cultural Foundation) “A Heart for Art” invites the public to donate art supplies for Clarke County Elementary Schools. Donation box available in the Classic Center lobby through Aug. 1, 5 p.m. Contact the Classic Center with questions. www.classic center.com
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
GRANT APPLICATIONS (AthFest Educates) Applications for the 2025-2026 grant cycle are now available. Applicants planning to use music and/or arts as a teaching and learning mechanism for core education are encouraged to apply. Certain criteria must be met. Details available on website. www. athfesteducates.org/grants/applyfor-a-grant/ 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
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
25.
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 of Memories” Donations can be made until the day of event. July 19, 5 p.m. Contact 706-548-6332 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 706-546-1133, 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. Handson 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
QUILT RAFFLE (Friends of the Madison County Library) Madison County Library’s Summer Reading Program “Color Our World” hosts a raffle for a handmade quilt to benefit various programs. $2 per ticket. The winning ticket will be drawn in Sep. to kick off Library Card Sign-up Month. Visit www.athenslibrary.org/ madison for more information.
OCONEE LIBRARY (1925 Electric Ave.) Exhibition “Women of Courage Portrait Exhibit” honors the achievements, resilience and lasting impact of remarkable women who have shaped our history and society. Through Aug. 29. Reception July 20, 4 p.m.
THE OLD PAL (1320 Prince Ave.) Drawings by local artist Cameron Lyden are on view through mid-July.
THE ROOK & PAWN (294 W. Washington St.) Photographer Jennifer Keene’s “Southern Cemeteries: Tombstones & Tales” explores rural Southern cemeteries through funerary art, epitaphs and symbolism, highlighting their beauty, history and folklore. A portion of proceeds benefits Friends of Brooklyn Cemetery. Through July.
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave)
Elizabeth Barton presents “For the Love of Trees,” a collection of fiber and mixed media works that explore reflected light, translucency, effects of time and repeated patterns of natural or architectural forms. Through Aug. 3.
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.
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) 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, 706-613-3800
CAMP PROGRAMS (Athens Humane Society) “Humane Heroes” and “Junior Vet” summer camps are open for registration. July availability but spaces are limited. www. athenshumanesociety.org/summercamp
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 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 through Aug. Visit www.sweetolive farm.org for pricing and options.
CAMP PROGRAMS (The Studio) Registration for “Creative Kids Camp” is now open. Programs are for ages 4–8 with music, art and movement to foster creative expression and imaginative play. Through Aug. www.thestudioath.com
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
WORKOUTS & MORE (CrossFit Liberate) Lessons on health, nutrition and fitness for ages 10-16 during “Teen Athlete Accelerator Camp.” Through Aug. $95 per week. www. crossfitliberate.com
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
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
PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP (First Baptist Church) This group is to encourage, support and share information with fellow sojourners who manage the challenges of
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
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 (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.
SEEKING VENDORS (Winterville Cultural Center) A limited number of vendor tables available for indoor yard sale during the Third Thursday art event on July 19. $6–10 per table. Space is limited. Call 706742-0823 to reserve a table.
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
Steph Rivers and Lydian Brambila’s exhibition “This ‘n’ That” is on view at Flicker Theatre & Bar for the month of July. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, July 10 from 6–8 p.m.
REAL ESTATE APARTMENTS FOR RENT
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
Tiny living in the country. 30’ RV camper on small farm 30 miles east of Athens. All utilities furnished, wi- fi, 2 TVs, trash service, private, secure, large covered porch, nice setting. Security deposit and references required. Text 706-401-0880.
HOUSES FOR SALE
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
Learn French with native French speaker with 15 years of professional experience. $40/h. Contact Jonathan @ jonathanbaillehache@gmail. com, call 347 360 9022 or visit www.jonathanbaille hache.com/t-en.
Advertise your service in the Flagpole Classifieds.
CLEANING
Peachy Green Clean! Celebrating 10 years of being your local friendly green cleaners! 706- 248- 4601, www.peachygreenclean coop.com
HEALTH
Athens area retired RN provides care to elderly in their homes. Seeking new clients. 40 years experience providing compassionate care. Rates as low as $18/hr. Text Ginny 409- 218- 4490 to discuss your needs.
HOME AND GARDEN
Happy Summer! WomanRun Gardening Services: We offer garden clean- up/ maintenance, invasive plant removal, raised beds, personalized native/edible gardens for home/business and more! Call/Text: 706-395-5321.
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 @pablofrom seed, email pkozatch@gmail. com or call 631-903-4365.
MISC. SERVICES
Hotel Abacus offers six unique and historic venues for your special event. hotelabacusathens.com
PETS
Pamper your pup at Bark Dog Spa, Athens’ premiere dog grooming facility! Book online at barkdogspa.com
JOBS
FULL-TIME
Hologram Salon seeks a licensed hairstylist. Experience in haircutting techniques and various coloring services. We offer flexible scheduling, health/retirement benefits and more. Email resume/portfolio: hologram salon@gmail.com.
Hiring Exceptional LMTs – Watkinsville Join our expert Integrative Clinic. Growing our exclusive nervous-system-focused protocol. Gentle on your body, high pay, supportive culture, in-house perks. Seeking therapists dedicated to growing with our team long- term. Send resume: audrey@ blanchardwellnessclinic.com
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
ORGANIZATIONS
I am searching for anyone who has been a tenant of Chad Lowery in the last 30 years. Please text 706- 6145187 with any information.
Become a Juvenile Offender Advocate to compassionately and effectively transform the lives of young people in need of mentorship and rehabilitation. juvenile offenderadvocateinc.org
If you are in crisis due to domestic violence, Project Safe is here to help. Call 706-543-3331 or visit projectsafe.org.
Know someone special with an upcoming birthday or important milestone? Give a public shout through Flagpole Classifieds!
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
