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MAY 27, 2026 · VOL. 40 · NO. 21 · FREE

Mountain of Youth Perspective of Experience Shapes Album Nowhere, NW p. 8

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this week’s issue

contents

ALAN VELASCO

Indie folk band The Mountain Goats will play at the 40 Watt Club on Saturday, May 30 in support of its new album. For more shows around town, see the Live Music Calendar on p. 13.

Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 NEWS: City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

This Modern World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Mayoral Runoff

Street Scribe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

NEWS: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Athens Indoor Football League

Mountain of Youth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Curb Your Appetite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Live Music Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

MUSIC: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Event Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Jack & Jealous Documentary

Art Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

MUSIC: Threats & Promises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Tribute to Stephen Cramer PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alicia Nickles PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner ADVERTISING SALES Jonathon Musser, Isabella Williams EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin CITY EDITOR Blake Aued MUSIC EDITOR Sam Lipkin ARTS & CULTURE COORDINATOR Libba Beaucham OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson CONTRIBUTORS Gordon Lamb, Ed Tant CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe EDITORIAL & OFFICE ASSISTANT Mary Beth Bryan EDITORIAL INTERNS Lily Thomas PHOTOGRAPHERS CJ Bartunek, Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons

Calendar Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Adopt Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Local Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Keb’ Mo’

COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Hunter Morris by Sam Johnson (see story on p. 8) STREET ADDRESS: 220 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30601 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603 EDITORIAL: 706-­549-­9523 · ADVERTISING: 706-­549-­0301 CLASSIFIED ADS: class@flagpole.com ADVERTISING: ads@flagpole.com CALENDAR: calendar@flagpole.com EDITORIAL: editorial@flagpole.com

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online exclusive UGA Presents, the University of Georgia’s professional performing arts series, has announced its lineup of musicians, dancers and other artists from around the world who will perform during the upcoming season.

See “UGA Presents Announces 2026–27 Season” at flagpole.com.

M AY 2 7, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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news

letters

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO P.O. BOX 1027, ATHENS, GA 30603 OR EMAIL US AT LETTERS@FLAGPOLE.COM Who’s Accountable for Jail Deaths?

Joshua Silvers, 45, is yet one more Athens-­Clarke County prisoner who should not have died in our jail. No matter what the cause of death, he should not be dead.

The jail is woefully understaffed. Prisoners whom our bail fund assists tell me they go for hours, sometimes whole days, without seeing a jailer. If and when they do see jail staff, it is when meals are served or they are called to meet with their attorney.

(There haven’t been in-­person visits for prisoners since March 2020.)

Medical and psychiatric care at the jail is inadequate. At best, prisoners who exhibit mental health symptoms or who are actively psychotic are medicated, often then left to languish in their jail cells or pods for days on end, usually isolated from other prisoners. Fluorescent lights in the jail cells are left burning 24/7.

Silvers was in jail because he allegedly neglected to register as a sex offender.

While this might be an important aspect of Georgia’s sex offender law, it is complicated for people who have no home. When someone who is homeless moves from shelter to shelter, campsite to campsite, street corner to street corner, it is mostly impossible for them to register changes of address with the sheriff’s office. And when someone is in the throes of a mental health crisis, as Silvers might have been, registry is not, I think, humanly possible.

Silvers was arrested the day after Christmas in 2024. Bond was set at $500, an amount he couldn’t afford to purchase his pretrial freedom. His attorney filed for a bond reduction in January 2025 in Superior Court. That motion was denied by Judge Patrick Haggard. In February 2025, the lawyer also filed a motion with the court to have his client declared incompetent to stand trial. That motion was granted, and a letter was sent to the Georgia Department of Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) to have him transported to the State Hospital in Augusta to determine whether or not Silvers could be restored to competency. That letter was dated Feb. 19, 2025. The wait list for a mental health bed at Augusta is 385 days.

Last September, Judge Haggard ordered the ACC Jail to continue to medicate Silvers to keep him “well” until a bed opened up in Augusta. On Apr. 5, 2026, Easter Sunday evening, Joshua Silvers—homeless, mentally ill, pretrial and presumed innocent— was found dead in his cell.

Death by neglect. Death by incompetence. Death by poverty. The courts, the sheriff, DBHDD—all need to be held accountable.

John Cole Vodicka Athens

RIP Linda Lloyd Linda Lloyd has left us. Even if you didn’t feel it, this is a monumental shift.

I first met Linda on the North Campus of UGA in November of 2011 as the Occupy Wall Street movement found its place in Athens. Linda showed up with her mentor, Ray MacNair, and a handful of UGA stu-

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dents. Ray and Linda found a willing audience for their wisdom on organizing, wealth inequality and the needed justice for the workers of Athens. I reverently listened and shook their hands afterwards, these folks who had already done such amazing organizing and groundwork in Athens with the Economic Justice Coalition.

Ray passed soon afterwards, and Linda, with the help of the amazing Nancy MacNair, picked up the torch and pushed forward. In those years, the members of Occupy Athens and Athens for Everyone watched Lloyd closely to learn how to organize. Linda was always willing to share advice, tell stories, and, when needed, give corrective criticism to a group of young and (overly) eager organizers.

Over the last 15 years, Linda was one of the truest north stars I had. She would give me advice when I asked but, probably more helpful, she would give me advice when I didn’t ask for it. I trusted her. She was real.

And she gave a damn about this community and these people. Even if she didn’t know it, she was helping to show me how to give a damn and care about my own community.

Linda, thank you for the time I had with you and the time that you gave to Athens and Northeast Georgia. And St. Peter, watch out, this woman is going to have heaven so organized that you are going to have to increase your pay and benefits!

Rest in Power Linda Lloyd.

Tim Denson Athens

TPUSA Attendance In the headline of Blake Aued’s Apr. 14 Flagpole article, he describes the Turning Point USA/JD Vance rally at Akins Ford Arena as “poorly attended.” Later in the article, he cites attendance figures for both the rally and also for the protest held outside.

He states that the protesters, “initially numbering at least 200… migrated to join a smaller rally on Foundry Street.” Later in his story, he describes the crowd inside Akins Ford Arena as “(estimated) somewhere between 1,000–1,500 in attendance.”

Using Aued’s attendance numbers, I will round the protester’s attendance figure up to 300 and the TPUSA/Vance rally down to its lowest estimate of 1,000. The attendees of the JD Vance rally outnumbered the protesters by roughly 700 people. Yet, in the article’s headline, Aued describes only the Vance rally as “poorly attended.”

By Aued’s own standard, if the Vance rally was “poorly attended,” shouldn’t the protest be described in similar terms? Or perhaps more accurately as “even more poorly attended”? Flagpole readers are a savvy bunch, and many of them know that 1,000 is a much larger number than 300.

I suspect a double standard at work in Aued’s article. But, perhaps it’s because Akins Ford Arena’s capacity is approximately 8,500 people, so an audience of 1,000 is understandably thought of as small. If that’s the reason, remember that the protest was held outdoors. The outdoors has an unlimited attendance capacity, so one would think that a turnout of roughly

300 people would be even more disappointing and noteworthy. A person might wonder, “In a supposedly liberal town of 130,000 people, why was there such a small number of protesters?”

The fact is this: On Apr. 14, 2026, far more people were present at Akins Ford Arena to hear Vice President JD Vance speak than were protesting his presence.

I have my own theory as to why Blake Aued would not explicitly state this fact in his article’s headline, instead of implying otherwise. However, I’d love to hear his explanation, if only for a good laugh.

Ed Stryton Athens Editor’s note: The Vance rally was described as “poorly attended” because, having booked a venue with a capacity of up to 8,500, clearly TPUSA expected 8,500 people, or close to it. Instead, they could only fill a small fraction of the arena. Erika Kirk even bailed on the event, allegedly because so few tickets had been requested. (Her initial excuse about death threats proved unfounded—the Secret Service said there were no threats.) Conversely, 300 is a larger-­ than-­average number of protesters for Athens.

Consider UGA When Voting With election season upon us, it’s imperative that we consider town-­gown relations as a central issue. Beware the candidate who thinks they can wave a magic wand to repair those ties. As an Athenian for over 47 years, I’d like to offer my perspective on why town-­gown relations are suffering.

UGA demolished Legion Pool, the WPA project opened in 1936. Legion Pool had served as an epicenter of town-­gown relations for 90 years. Sure, UGA checked all the boxes with required legal notices and a hearing, but it was obvious that it was all for show. Taken as a whole, UGA has acted in bad faith, demolishing public trust along with the pool. What a shame.

The historic Spec Towns track and field facility? At least they built a new track.

The urban renewal project that erased Linnentown, a Black neighborhood, for UGA high-­rise dorms along Baxter Street?

UGA has actively fought against acknowledging that part of its own history.

The President’s House? The University System of Georgia (USG) was entrusted with ownership of the historic property at 570 Prince Ave. in 1949. The President’s House, including the front and back gardens, are recognized on the National Historic Register. As state-­owned property, the President’s House has never been subject to property taxes and was deliberately excluded from local designation as part of the Boulevard Historic District, which would have added extra protections for the adjacent neighborhoods.

With a price tag of $5.1 million, and estimated restoration costs of at least $2 million, USG is basically asking $7.1 million for property they received for $1, all but guaranteeing that any subsequent reuse will be intense and unreasonably intrusive on the surrounding historic neighborhoods.

Those $2 million in restoration costs represent years of deferred maintenance.

In these cases, the university system has failed in its stewardship role and is passing those costs onto the community, its historic neighborhoods in particular. UGA is creating problems that Athens-­Clarke County must then solve. Take the former Varsity location, for example—just the latest abomination being built to serve UGA students.

From housing, traffic and parking pressures caused by ever-­expanding student enrollment, with their resultant costs to the community, compounded by the lack of maintenance and preservation of historic resources, UGA must recognize the negative impact it can have on the fabric of Athens-­ Clarke County and act as a true community partner to mitigate these downsides. Doing so will work wonders on town-­gown relations, and both UGA and ACC will be better when and if they do.

It’s worth remembering this quote from former UGA President Michael Adams: “None of us are owners of the University of Georgia; we merely are stewards of a legacy entrusted to us by generations. We are here for a time, serving an enterprise that is owned by the people of this state.”

That sentiment should be applied to the city of Athens, too.

Tony Eubanks Athens

news

city dope

Fisher Vs. Denson, Round Two RACE FOR ATHENS MAYOR GOES TO A RUNOFF, AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com But more than winning over the supporters of eliminated opponents, runoffs are about ensuring that one’s own supporters go back to the polls. Turnout for a primary runoff is usually in the single digits, according to ACC Elections Coordinator Lisa McGlaun (although it could be slightly JAKE ZERKEL

Tim Denson knew it would be a good night for him early on when he heard from supporters that he’d won the Stroud Elementary and Hilsman Middle School precincts.

The Democratic Socialist mayoral candidate was expected to do well in the Normaltown/ Boulevard area, but not necessarily on the Eastside.

“It’s obvious we’re going to be the frontrunner,” Denson told Flagpole as early results trickled in on May 19. “The question is, who comes in second?”

That turned out to be Athens-­Clarke County Commissioner Dexter Fisher, who won 27% of the vote in a five-­way race to Denson’s 38%. Those two will now face off in a runoff June 16, with early voting scheduled to start on June 8. Denson led in 19 of Athens’ 24 precincts, with Fisher winning three and third-­place finisher LaKeisha Gantt taking two.

The result was no surprise for Fisher, either. “We knew we were looking at a runoff,” he told Flagpole. “We’ll hit the ground running.”

The last time there was a runoff for ACC mayor was 2010, when Nancy Denson received 34% of the vote in the first round, and Gwen O’Looney won 23%, just edging out Spencer Frye and Charlie Maddox.

Denson—no relation to Tim—wound up winning the runoff with 56% of the vote, at least partly because of some bad blood between the O’Looney and Frye camps.

Some progressives thought that Frye, now a state representative, was an unknown and untested candidate, and recruited the former mayor O’Looney to run again.

And some Frye supporters who wanted a younger, fresher face resented O’Looney for jumping into the race relatively late.

Although Tim Denson holds a sizable lead, there is some danger of the same thing happening to him, depending on how Gantt’s supporters break. She took some shots at Denson during candidate forums, insinuating that his activism was performative, and some of her supporters online have been downright hostile toward Denson. However, Gantt is much closer to Denson than Fisher ideologically, and some of her Black supporters believe it’s time for the older generation to step aside.

Gantt gave no indication following Election Night whom she would endorse, if anyone. “Of course we wanted to win,” she said in a social media statement. “But the other two goals of our campaign [were] to give voice to and reengage communities who have been silenced, overlooked and left out. And to identify concrete actions that our newly engaged community could advocate for. We proudly met two of these three goals.”

Denson faces another headwind: GOP runoffs for governor and U.S. Senate will draw Republicans back to the polls on June 16, with no corresponding high-­profile statewide races on the Democratic side.

While Fisher is a Democrat, a substantial number of local Republicans support his campaign, and those who supported Mara Zuniga could wind up backing him as well.

Arena events), as well as sidewalks and bike lanes. An already tight timeline to spend the grant tightened even more when the commission passed a plan introduced by Commissioner Ovita Thornton to maintain the five-­lane configuration. It would have delayed construction even further because of the need to acquire privately owned right-­of-­way.

Staff and consultants remain concerned that going with five lanes would trigger a lengthy environmental review and possibly stray too far from the grant’s original purpose of improving safety. Although there was little discussion at the May 20 agenda-­ setting meeting, commissioners seemed OK with reverting to the four-­lane plan.

Tim Denson speaks with supporters at his election watch party at Athentic Brewing Co.

higher this year, given that turnout on May 19 was 30%, compared to 22% in 2022).

That’s where Denson has the advantage— he has extensive experience as a political organizer, and his team knocked on 11,000 doors.

As the race entered its final four weeks, Fisher said he is campaigning on leadership and on economic development—good jobs as a solution for housing costs that have grown out of reach for many, as well as returning commercial air service at Athens-­ Ben Epps Airport.

Denson said he would continue to talk about issues like homelessness and affordability. He contrasted his grassroots campaign with the maxed-­out donations Fisher has received from developers.

“We have a vision to make an Athens for everyone, an Athens that is affordable for everyone,” Denson said. “That vision is landing with the voters, with the people here in Athens-­Clarke County. They know that this campaign is about them. They know this campaign is about making a place that works for all of them.”

North Avenue Grant Extended Athens-­Clarke County commissioners will have a second chance to “reimagine North Avenue” after the Federal Highway Administration extended the deadline for a prestigious grant the local government received in 2022, but that commissioners voted to give back because they thought they would not have time to spend it.

County staff and consultants AECOM initially recommended a four-­lane configuration, with one southbound car lane, a center turn lane and two northbound car lanes (to address concerns about traffic leaving UGA football games and Akins Ford

“We’ve got to slow that traffic down, especially coming downhill, and we do have a design that can do that, and accommodates cyclists and pedestrians and mamas pushing baby carriages,” Commissioner Melissa Link said. “We need more safe crossings.”

Also up for a vote at the commission’s June 2 meeting: • a preliminary vote on issuing bonds to cover a $148 million shortfall on a now-­ $226 million judicial center. “Our current

courthouse very dramatically underserves our entire legal apparatus,” Mayor Kelly Girtz said.

Commissioner Dexter Fisher raised concerns about both the cost and the height of the six-­story building, fretting about its impact on First AME Church next door.

Manager Bob Cowell said the proposed layout is the most efficient, and that lowering the building would require spreading it out, eliminating a parking lot that would serve as a buffer with the church.

As for cost, Commissioner John Culpepper noted that ACC is saving money by building it on county-­owned land, and said that the price tag of $972 a square foot is within the range for Class A office space.

The plan is to repay the bonds with future SPLOST revenue, but Commissioner Carol Myers worried that voters might not approve a SPLOST if it included too much money for the judicial center, a parking deck and renovating the current courthouse into municipal offices. Last Tuesday, a transportation sales tax package passed, but with the lowest level of support in at least 20 years.

“The average person doesn’t go to the courthouse and doesn’t know” how overcrowded and in need of repairs it is, she said.

“It’s a building we hope we’ll be successfully using 75 years from now,” Cowell emphasized. “It’s not a short-­term, low-­cost kind of project.”

• a five-­year, $558 million water and sewer service delivery plan, paid for with 3% annual rate hikes. It does not include a much-­debated extension into the environmentally sensitive Sandy Creek basin, where there are thousands of homes on aging septic systems. “There’s very little in the plan about expanding service,” Cowell said. “Most of it is taking care of what we have.”

• accepting a master plan for the Leisure Services Department. The main takeaway is the need to fund operating costs to match investments in new capital projects, according to Cowell. The report also identifies areas of need for future parks and other projects, such as west of the Loop, Leisure Services Interim Director Alex Bond said. f

Local Election Results MAYOR: Tim Denson 37.7%, Dexter Fisher 27.1%, LaKeisha Gantt 22.7%, Mara Zuniga 11.7%, Sharon Miller 1.8%* COMMISSION DISTRICT 1: incumbent Patrick Davenport 77.5%, Terry Johnson 22.5% COMMISSION DISTRICT 3: incumbent Tiffany Taylor 57%, Tammie Foote 43% COMMISSION DISTRICT 5: Kimberly Bennett 35.2%, Craig Topple 30.9%, Zander Mason 25%, Rick Stanziale 8.8%* COMMISSION DISTRICT 7: Ed Tolley 73.6%, Bennie Coleman III 26.4% COMMISSION DISTRICT 9: incumbent Ovita Thornton 48.7%, Tracy Smith 42%, Barry Irwin 9.3%* BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 3: Reginald Willis 55.2%, Carl Blount 44.8% BOE DISTRICT 5: Heather Fletcher 58.2%, Fred Smith Sr. 42.8% BOE DISTRICT 7: Lillie Brooks 60.1%, Adam Shirley 40% TSPLOST: 56% yes, 44% no 10TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT (D): Pam Delancy 54%, Lexy Doherty 39.8%, John Dority 6.2% 10TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT (R): Houston Gaines 67.4%, Ryan Millsap 17.8%, Jeff Baker 14.8% SENATE DISTRICT 46 (R): Marc McMain 43.3%, Doug McKillip 34.7%, Michael Broun 22%* SENATE DISTRICT 46 (D): Ray Smith 59.9%, William Gaulden 40.1% SENATE DISTRICT 47 (R): incumbent Frank Ginn 51%, Jason Black 49% HOUSE DISTRICT 120 (R): Ward Black 58.4%, Chad Paton 41.6%

*asterisks indicate a runoff between the top two finishers

M AY 2 7, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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news

feature

Football’s Not Just for Fall INDOOR LEAGUE IS EXPANDING TO ATHENS NEXT SPRING

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

S

tarting in 2027, Athens football fans will be able to indulge in their football jones almost year-­round. An Indoor Football League expansion team is coming to Akins Ford Arena next spring, team owners, league officials and the Classic Center announced on May 21.

There are no players yet, but the team already has some star power: Co-­owners include former Braves and Falcons star Brian Jordan, legendary UGA linebacker David Pollack and Hall of Fame NFL running back Jerome “The Bus” Bettis, who now lives in Atlanta. “I know they will bring incredible energy and credibility to this franchise,” Classic Center President and CEO Paul Cramer said.

The yet-­to-­be-­named team hopes to build on the success of not only the Bulldogs,

but the Athens Rock Lobsters hockey team, which averaged 4,500 fans per game last season, the second-­highest attendance in the league. “What we want to do is bring a quality product to a city that already knows and appreciates football,” Bettis told a crowd of several hundred at the arena for the announcement.

“And I can promise you this: The football’s going to be good,” Pollack added.

Team president Mike Sammond—a UGA graduate with experience running several arena football and minor league hockey teams—compared indoor football to the Savannah Bananas, an independent baseball team known for dancing players and quirky rules. “We want Savannah Bananas-­ type energy when you come out to Akins Ford Arena,” he said.

BLAKE AUED

Co-­owner David Pollack speaks at an announcement for Athens’ new Indoor Football League team at Akins Ford Arena.

To prove his point, the announcement ceremony included appearances by UGA’s Redcoats marching band, Rock Lobsters mascot Clawdius, and Elvis and Michael Jackson impersonators. “We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” Sammond said. “We like to have fun.”

The IFL’s teams have eight players per side, and the game is played on a 50-­yard-­long field (half the size of a regular football field). There’s no punting and no out-­of-­bounds areas on the sidelines, meaning receivers often dive into the stands trying to make a catch. Fans are close enough to high-­five players and hear them talk trash. And any balls thrown into the stands, fans can keep. “Think of the Rock Lobsters without the glass,” Sammond said. “... The Rock Lobsters proved that professional sports can absolutely thrive in Athens, Georgia.”

To further attract fans, “It’s one of our goals to get some Georgia Bulldogs to suit up and represent Athens,” Sammond said.

The IFL is in its 18th season and currently has 14 teams, including two potential rivals for Athens in Orlando and Jacksonville, FL. In addition to the Athens team, the Bay Area Panthers of San Jose, CA are joining the league next year.

The IFL’s season runs from April to July, with the playoffs in August. It starts when hockey season ends and ends when college football begins, so it will help the Classic Center fill the arena during those months, according to Cramer.

Season tickets are currently available at athensfootball.com, where people can also make suggestions for the team’s name.

Prices range from $240–$900 for eight home games. f

Rock Lobsters Claw Their Way Into Higher League Athens’ professional hockey franchise announced earlier this month that it will take a step up into a higher level of minor league play next season.

The Rock Lobsters are moving from the Federal Professional Hockey League to the SPHL, formerly known as the Southern Professional Hockey League until expanding into the Midwest. The SPHL is considered a tier higher than the FPHL among independent hockey leagues, just one rung below the ECHL (formerly the East Coast Hockey League), made up of official NHL farm teams.

“This is an incredibly exciting moment for the Athens Rock Lobsters and for the city of Athens,” team president Scott Hull said in a news release. “From the day we announced this franchise, our goal has been to build something that reflects the energy and spirit of this community while delivering high-­level professional hockey. Moving into the SPHL represents the next chapter of that vision.

“It allows us to elevate the level of competition while continuing to invest in the fan experience that has made Akins Ford Arena one of the most electric environments in minor league hockey. What our fans have built over the past two seasons has exceeded every expectation imaginable, and this move reflects the momentum, growth, and passion surrounding hockey in Athens and throughout Northeast Georgia.”

The SPHL “is known for its fast-­paced style of play, experienced professional talent, and strong regional rivalries that create highly competitive and entertaining hockey,” according to the news release. Natural rivals for the Rock Lobsters might include the Macon Mayhem and the Ice Bears in Knoxville, TN. “From their first season, the Rock Lobsters have demonstrated what a successful franchise looks like; strong ownership, a fantastic arena and a passionate fan base,” SPHL Commissioner Doug Price said. “Athens has already shown its commitment to delivering an outstanding hockey product and a memorable game-­day atmosphere. We are excited about what the future holds as they begin play in our league next season.”

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news

street scribe

music

feature

Trumpifying Washington

A Familiar Story

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

TACKY PRESIDENT IS PHYSICALLY TRANSFORMING THE CAPITAL

In 1960, crusading Atlanta newspaperman Ralph McGill rhapsodized that Washington, DC is “a wondrous, beautiful city.

There is no capital anywhere which can match it in loveliness.” McGill praised such world capitals as London, Paris, Stockholm and Copenhagen in his column, but he reserved his highest accolades for a city he called “Washington… the young queen of capitals.”

McGill wrote his paean to Washington during a springtime visit to the city sometimes called “Paris on the Potomac.”

old stone building a nondescript shade of white. Trump jumped at the chance to diminish the memory of JFK when he added his own name to the Kennedy Center, which has long been a performing arts venue honoring the slain president whose time in office was marked by an appreciation of beauty and culture.

Not far from the White House is the stately Lincoln Memorial, with its reflecting pool that mirrors the imposing Washington Monument, an inspiring view that has appeared countless times on postcards,

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER DOCUMENTS INDIE BROTHER DUO JACK & JEALOUS

W

While Carnes says that he believes in Jack & Jealous wholeheartedly as a band with something special, its story is “accessible” and one that he’s seen reflected across so many of the groups he’s photographed over the years. Watching the brothers perform and bring their own magic and energy to the stage over and over again has been a fun part of the journey for Carnes, but witnessing them also transition into fatherhood together has brought a different perspective to the project.

“I got to watch them become dads and still perform at a high level. I got to watch them do a show in their living room, where now they have a toddler running around, and I didn’t get any footage of this, because sometimes you do miss a really cool moment… During this house show they hosted to celebrate the anniversary of their album, Ian’s son comes over and messes with his pedal board, and it made his guitar sound so crazy. It’s a family thing, and

Similarly, Carnes is the father of a toddler around the same age and juggles family, work and his passions, so he felt a personal connection to their story. He moved to Athens nearly four years ago after getting married, and during a period of unemployment he decided to go out and take photos at as many shows around town as possible. Carnes began networking with bands through his photography page and eventually met Ian and Isaac, who asked him to open as a musician on a Jack & Jealous show.

“We would play shows together; I would take photos of them at different milestones. As they’re playing all these shows they get maybe like 10–20 people to come consistently, and that’s kind of the story of almost every band in Athens,” says Carnes.

“We were sitting outside of what used to be Buvez, and I was like, ‘I’ve taken so many pictures of y’all, what do y’all think about if I just compiled a bunch of footage and try to map out the story of your band?’ Because their story isn’t just about them, you know?

I think the goal in making this was also trying to show that every band is like this.

If it’s not Jack & Jealous, it’s another band.”

you’re watching their family kind of come around them and allow them to really just have these moments together as brothers.

I think that’s a huge thing that I was really able to capture, because with them not living in the same city those moments are really special for them,” says Carnes.

As a father pursuing his own creative projects, Carnes says now when he’s working on something he has the thought: “What if my kid grows up and thinks this sucks?” He views his projects through the lens of what his child might think one day, but it also has reframed the amount of time and effort he puts towards things. There’s a different motivation to be more intentional.

Ultimately, Carnes hopes that this documentary will encourage people to support local music and give small bands a chance.

Athens has an iconic music scene that has birthed true legends, but it’s the shows happening at small clubs and bars every night of the week that keep the sense of community alive.

Watch the I Can See It documentary at youtube.com/@michaelcarnes1, and find more of Carnes’ photography at instagram. com/kabute.photos. f

MICHAEL CARNES

REINHARD LINK

hen local photographer and musician Michael Carnes got to know brothers Ian and Isaac White of the indie rock duo Jack & Jealous, he saw a story to tell that was a microcosm of Athens itself—and on a larger scale, that of bands everywhere. Carnes decided to tell this story through a 14-­minute documentary now up on YouTube called I Can See It. Jack & Jealous officially formed in 2021 when Ian came across an opportunity to record at the Tweed Recording music school for a student practice session. Because they had grown up playing music together, Ian hoped to one day start a band with his brother, and this seemed like the necessary push to make that happen. Since that moment, Ian and Isaac have navigated life changes, like Isaac moving to Greenville, SC and the brothers having children a few months apart, while keeping the band together as an important creative outlet and bond.

The Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.

When the journalist surveyed Washington in 1960, it was three years before Martin Luther King Jr. would give his stirring “I Have a Dream” speech at the Lincoln Memorial. McGill knew that the civil rights struggle was destined for victory, but in 1960 he told his readers of seeing Black children touring the nation’s capital years before the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. “It is not always easy to meet the eyes of the Negro youngsters when we see them and the flag and remember the pledge of liberty and justice for all,” he wrote.

Even so, McGill had a sense of hope and a grasp of history that won him a Pulitzer Prize for the writings that caused McGill to be called “the conscience of the South.” The journalist died in 1969 after a lifelong love for his region, his country and its capital, Washington, DC. If McGill lived today, there probably would be sadness mixed with anger in his views of Washington, DC and its denizens in the White House, on Capitol Hill and in the federal courts. President Donald Trump is behaving like some Mar-­a-­Lago Mussolini in his efforts to make McGill’s “wondrous, beautiful city” into a glitzy monument to himself.

The White House’s East Wing is now a bulldozed pile of rubble as Trump pushes for a billion-­dollar ballroom on the historic site. Nearby, the Old Executive Office Building is an ornate and intriguing stone structure that has impressed visitors to Washington since the 19th century. President John Kennedy saved the grey granite building from destruction during his term, but now President Donald Trump muses about painting the dark and dignified

T-­shirts, television and the silver screen for decades since the Lincoln Memorial and the reflecting pool were constructed more than a century ago. President Warren Harding dedicated the memorial in 1922, but Harding’s praise for a president who was called “the great emancipator” was muted by the fact that the audience at the dedication was racially segregated. Harding would die in office the next year, and his time in the White House is remembered today as a time of scandal and corruption in Washington.

Historians of the future will probably view today’s times of trials, tribulations and Trump as a far worse stain on our nation than anything from Harding’s Roaring Twenties regime. Now Trump is trying to put his own stamp on one of Washington’s most iconic views by having the reflecting pool painted a shade of what he calls “American flag blue.” The pool has long had problems with leaks and algae, but neither of those problems necessitate changing its color.

President Trump will celebrate his 80th birthday on June 14, and the United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary on July 4. Orwellian banners bearing huge images of Trump’s face are hanging from government buildings in Washington, but the celebrations will be overshadowed by the war, corruption, inequity and iniquity emanating from Trump’s regime and symbolized by his Ozymandias-­like attempts to transform Washington into a tacky monument to himself.

When it comes to the art and architecture of Washington, Trump should remember an old adage: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” f

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music

feature

Mountain of Youth

FOLK SONGWRITER HUNTER MORRIS RELEASES ALBUM NOWHERE, NW

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · M AY 2 7, 2026

here’s a perspective on life that can only be cultivated through lived experiences and venturing outside your bubble, and this point-­of-­view helped to shape songwriter Hunter Morris’ new album, Nowhere, NW, released under the name Mountain of Youth via Strolling Bones Records. Leaning into a more organic process for this project, Morris came through the other side with lessons learned and a new voice—the meaning, ultimately, at the heart of Mountain of Youth.

Those tuned in with the Athens music scene might be familiar with Morris for his long-­running project Blue Blood or participation in other projects, but he’s approached songwriting differently with Mountain of Youth, prioritizing performing from a solo acoustic angle that can be enhanced by but not require a full backing band. Morris wanted an album of songs that he could perform solo if necessary without losing any of their compositional integrity to open the door to more performance opportunities, then allow for duo or full band arrangements as the situation would allow.

“People have adult lives, and so I can’t bank on getting together with a bunch of dudes in the basement rehearsing,” says Morris.

“That had a big impact on how much work I put into the songs, because if I’m going to be playing this by myself on an acoustic guitar, I want to really have conviction. It changed the way that I wrote the songs… In a weird way, the deconstructed, simple, simplified version is actually more complicated, or not necessarily more complicated, it just takes more work. It’s not like a full band going into the studio to fill in the gaps.”

The concept for Mountain of Youth was one Morris had for a long time, tracing back to an album of the same name released by his band Gift Horse. At that time it meant something very different, he says, pondering questions about life from a youthful and naive standpoint. Now at a place of reflection, the Mountain of Youth represents the accumulation of experiences and people behind you that drive what is hopefully still a curiosity and wonder for the life in front of you. Morris wrote Nowhere, NW as a collection of songs about different characters at different points in their lives evaluating the choices they have made or will make in their unique journey.

One of the first things Morris knew about the album going into the recording process was that “Automatic Days” would be the first track and “Until You’re Dreaming” would be the last. “Automatic Days” tells the story of an older couple approaching the end of life wishing that they had done more in life, while “Until You’re Dreaming”

is a lullaby-­esque song of a baby being born.

The album begins with a warning of that “too late” point in life, then proceeds to tell the stories of characters each teaching a lesson before ending on a fresh start that encourages the listener to make the most of their life.

The album art drawn by Delaney Dusch features sketches personifying these character concepts based on her listening experience, but the lack of finished details creates an outline for others to fill in with their own feelings and connection toward these imaginary people. Morris says that he found the style moving and powerful, and he’s already had people tell him the sketches remind them of people they know.

That throughline of humanity that we all experience in our own ways is essential to the Mountain of Youth.

Another important collaborator on the project was producer Ben Hackett, who Morris says shared a similar ethos about how the album should feel. There was an initial agreement that Nowhere, NW should be honest and raw. Morris workshopped the lyrics, then the pair let the songs take shape without forcing any preconceived notions on them. The songs were worked on in batches of three, recording two full band tracks then a solo one. Most of the recording was done as single live takes, which Morris had never done before, to encourage the feeling that the listener is sitting in the room for these storytelling sessions.

That process was at the recommendation of Hackett, who also led a lot of the element building in the stripped down songs.

“He’s a talented guy, but sometimes talented guys can be difficult to work with, and so to have the combination of his ability and working well together… just the greatest experience to make an album,” says Morris.

In the spirit of the project using past experiences to pave a new path forward, Morris and Hackett discussed how Hack-

ett’s instrumental album Songs for Sleeping Dogs had taught him a lot about the usefulness of sparsity and adding room to compositions. This approach was an important element of making an entire album of songs balancing the idea of building onto solo acoustic compositions in a way that they could be stripped back down again.

“One thing that you do might have a huge impact on another part of your life. That’s kind of where the ‘Nowhere, Nowhere’ thing comes into play. It’s a metaphorical kind of place that everybody comes from and ends up in, you know. But it also could be symbolic of a hometown where some people just stay there and never change, and other people want to see what the world’s all about,” says Morris.

While the songs are about characters, the material and experiences came from an autobiographical place, so Morris says that all of these songs still feel very personal to him. “Only In the Wild” hits closest to home because it’s about spending a lot of time in solitude and in the mountains, where Morris feels “most like myself.” Morris uses a lot of nature imagery in his songs and visual representations because it’s what he’s absorbing all the time. He owns and operates Fly Fishing North Georgia, leading guided trips and teaching others about conservation. Doing your small part to make the world a better place through conservation is like creating art, says Morris.

“You can’t do much about this world, but you can do your little parts. If you teach somebody about conservation or you give them the experience of spending a day out in nature, you know, that’s a lot like putting your effort into writing your songs. If that helps somebody, if one of those resonates and somebody identifies with what you’re talking about, at least you’re doing your little part to give people a little bit better go at this whole life thing,” says Morris.

Finding the value in those moments and making connections between them is part of what Morris has taken away from his experiences so far. Mountain of Youth continues to come full circle in his life, and it’s been an organic pathway to get there. One of the things he’s been most thankful for is the backing of Strolling Bones Records and how invested the team has been in this album and him as a person. Morris says it’s been the best experience he’s had in releasing an album, and it’s one of those things that makes being a musician in Athens special.

Mountain of Youth will perform at AthFest on Friday, June 26 on the Georgia Theatre Rooftop as part of the New West Records and Strolling Bones Records sponsored club event. f

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · M AY 2 7, 2026

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SHIRLEY DANIEL

LOMO S A LTA D O • W I N GS • E M PA N A DA S • S H A K E S • M A D U RO S •

2311 N. Elm St. IN COMMERCE GA • 706-335-0163

LIVE MUSIC

THURS/FRI/SAT NIGHTS!

MARIAH CARSON CLARKE CENTRAL ISAIAH ROSS OGLETHORPE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

Shirley Daniel dedicated her life to empowering others through knowledge, leadership, and community service.

This scholarship recognizes those who follow in her footsteps.

PALETARITAS ARE HERE We now have icy Margaritas topped with real paletas, chamoy rims + bold flavors!

FLAVORS INCLUDE: Sandíada - Watermelon

Loca Fresa - Strawberry + Chocolate

Cookie Margster - Oreo

Lemonada - Lime

Guavita - Guava

Friwi - Strawberry Kiwi

Pica Fresa - Strawberry Chamoy

Cocorita - Coconut

Mangorita - Mango Chamoy

Fresada - Strawberry

ALL YOU CAN EAT KOREAN BBQ AUTHENTIC KOREAN FOOD

FAST, FRIENDLY, AND LOCALLY OWNED SUN–THURS 10:30AM–10PM • FRI & SAT 10:30AM–11PM

LUNCH MENU M-F • 10:30AM–3PM SAT & SUNDAY BRUNCH SPECIALS 255 W WASHINGTON ST. (706)850-0833

Online Ordering • Curb-side pick-up • Box catering Homemade Soups, Salads, Sandwiches, and Desserts

Eat Lean and Eat Green with Em’s Salads.

Visit us for Lunch!

975 Hawthorne Ave • 706-206-9322 emskitchenathawthorne.com

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · M AY 2 7, 2026

An Athens Institution Since 1977 EASTSIDE

2230 Barnett Shoal Rd. • 706-549-5481

live music calendar Tuesday 26

Dead Beat Club 7 p.m. www.deadbeatathens.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.”

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). www. flickertheatreandbar.com ANNIE LEETH Local producer and violinist loops drums, synths and strings.

KILTERCLUB Hypnotic beats, haunted textures, and Berlin style sequences with field recordings and live instruments.

OHMU Abstract ambient solo project of Winston Parker, creating ruptured beds of high volume sound draped in fog and frenetic sound reactive lighting.

Hendershot’s 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials and live piano music.

Wednesday 27 Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat​ thefalls AUSTIN SISK & ALLIE BRYAN Singer-­songwriter duo playing alt-­ pop and country.

Athentic Brewing Co. 7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Second and fourth Wednesdays.

Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m.

FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket.net MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-­HOTS Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s. (6 p.m.)

Dead Beat Club 6 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.deadbeat​ athens.com ERIK OLSON Pianist known for his work in jazz-­infused trios and quartets, as well as his band Erik Olson’s Slam Tilt.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand​ bar.com DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga THE FOXHOUNDS Bluegrass band based in Nashville.

THE FROGS OF CALABASH Americana, folk and bluegrass inspired band.

Porterhouse Grill 7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Thursday 28 Athentic Brewing Co. Blues on Tap. 7–9 p.m. www.athentic​ brewing.com

THE ORIGINAL SCREW TOPS Blues jam for musicians, dancers and music lovers every fourth Thursday.

Dead Beat Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.deadbeatathens.com LYNCHIAN DANCE PARTY DJ CmD spinning a hypnotic mix of music from David Lynch’s works.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $12. www.flicker theatreandbar.com RBG & THE HELL Loud rock project of Gobby and Atlas Sound collaborator Brad Hoss.

ANTLERED AUNT LORD Folk-­ punk/garage-­pop project founded

by Jesse Stinnard, who describes it as “the missing link between The Pixies and The Byrds if they’d been raised in the Appalachians.”

CHAIRS Enigmatic local recording project that pulls from shoegaze and post-­punk influences.

JONES MURPHY & THE INDEFINITE REST Local alt-­rock project of songwriter Jones Murphy, for fans of Elvis Costello and R.E.M. The Globe 7:30–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ globe.athens MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-­HOTS Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.

Hendershot’s 8 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com BIG BAND ATHENS 18-­member Athens band whose swinging tunes consist of cover music from the ’40s to the ’70s.

Hotel Indigo Live After Five. 5:30–8 p.m. www. indigoathens.com WADE HUDSON The original rockin’ real estate agent.

Little Kings Shuffle Club 9 p.m. Donations suggested. www. accgov.com/kaccb CLASSIC CITY SING-­ALONG Karaoke fundraiser for Keep Athens-­ Clarke County Beautiful.

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga BLANKSTATE Three-­piece indie band based in Charlotte, NC. KARMA KAT Local band with sounds of rock, pop and funky jazz.

They’ll rock your whiskers off!

PARKING GARAGE Self-­ proclaimed “salt rock” band from Athens, now with trumpets.

Friday 29 40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.), $12. www.40watt.com TATTOO LOGIC Athens-­based five piece funk punk band with compositional chops.

ANNIE LEETH Local violinist loops drums, synths and strings.

WOMEN IN STEM Indie rock girl trio with a power complex and lots of love.

BOHEMIAN MAYDAY Athens/ Atlanta indie-­rock band that was originally a duo for years before adding on a bassist and drummer.

Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat​ thefalls ALEX BOSCOFF Playing covers and originals.

Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com EDDIE HALFASS Self-­claimed as Athens’ 483rd best band.

Ciné 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com LIZ FARRELL Jeff Buckley-­ inspired vocals accompanied by intricate ukulele and piano ETHAN MULLENAX Local songwriter playing song combining sample sequencing and synth compositions with folk roots.

MCKENDRICK BEARDEN Athens-­ based alternative-­rock artist whose music depicts the negatives and positives we all experience in life.

Dead Beat Club 8:30 p.m. $12. www.deadbeatathens. com FOURTH MANSIONS Local project spearheaded by multi-instrumentalist Joe Rowe blending folk, art rock and experimental elements.

MINORCAN Self-­described basement arena rock band.

EVEY MAY Athens based indie alternative songwriter with post-­ punk and shoegaze influences.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com NICHOLAS MALLIS AND THE BOREALIS Local synth-­pop act claiming a diverse array of supposed corporate sponsors.

VALLEY OF GIANTS Folk-­emo for anyone who’s missed something they can’t quite name.

AUSTIN SISK Covers and originals in the vein of alt-­rock, indie and Americana.

Front Porch Bookstore 6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook FOLIE À QUATRE Playing a mix of French chansons, jazzy tunes and originals by Lavon Smith, accompanied on guitar, accordion and double bass.

Georgia Theatre 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $29.55. www.georgiatheatre.com COSMIC CHARLIE Grateful Dead cover band that adds its own flair to the classics.

Hendershot’s 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.hendershotsathens.com CARAVAN Blues/funk/pop band from Woodstock, GA. Morton Theatre 7:30 p.m. $40–70. www.morton​ theatre.com THE ULTIMATE ELVIS CONCERT Celebrate the music and rise of the rock-­and-­roll icon.

Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere​ barathensga BROTHER FAT Highly percussive rock, blues and funk band formed in honor of the late Count M’Butu, who was the conga specialist of The Derek Trucks Band.

Nuçi’s Space 1 p.m. FREE! www.nuci.org SOUND CHECK CAMP Campers show off what they’ve learned.

The Rail 8–11 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens BAD DOG KARAOKE Every other Friday.

Southern Drawl Bar & Grille 5–10 p.m. www.southerndrawlbarand​ grille.com KARAOKE Every Friday night.

Saturday 30

40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $49.50. www.40watt.com THE MOUNTAIN GOATS Indie-­folk band formed in Claremont, CA and now based in Durham, NC that was originally the solo project of singer-­ songwriter John Darnielle.

ATHICA Sonic Space. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 suggested donation. www.athica.org HAMAIXA Live solo electronics and modular synth project inspired by house, electro, and musique concrète.

FORCEGHOST Ambient house with arps and heart in the sleepy South.

I KNOW JONES Atlanta-­based musician who’s work spans from electronic music to ambient performances.

SMOGGO Droning modulated oscillators, minimal techno and harsh electronic rhythms by Jay Domingo.

Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com JEREMY WELLS AND THE DALIS Ever evolving with over 30 years sellin’ syllables and seeding dreams.

Bishop Park Athens Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmers​ market.net KAYLA BEGGS Acoustic guitar instrumentalist. (9 a.m.)

Dead Beat Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8:30 p.m. (show). $7. www.deadbeatathens.com OL’ FADER Band blending Southern rock original tunes and jam-­driven improvisation into a groove-­heavy live experience.

CUSTOM CONCERN Playing covers and originals ranging from old country ballads to ’90s grunge.

LOCAL GHOST Solo project from Athens native Miles Kilpatrick (Hunger Anthem, Holy Hells, Mann Ray).

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $12. www.flicker theatreandbar.com KIT Athens-­based kaleidoscopic rock band expanded from the eponymous solo project Catt Malonius.

DOLPHIN GROUP Aquatic synth-­ pop band from Chattanooga, TN. PARRIS BYARS CLUB Welcome to the sideshow.

PIERCE ALEXANDER Nashville-­ based film composer, songwriter and multi-­instrumentalist.

Forest Heights Neighborhood Forest Heights Blueberry Festival: Blueberry Jam. 5:30–9:30 p.m.

FREE! regenerators.earth/festival FLASH TO BANG TIME Legendary Athens group with a new lineup playing a mesmerizing and unusual style of dexterous avant-­pop.

DJ ZACH Member of the Booty Boyz spinning tunes.

PICKLED HOLLER Matthew, Jessica and Bella Williams singing rustic tales.

WET MEADOWS Folky, botanical rock inspired by natural forms and rhythms.

OLDIES BUT GOODIES Ukulele band playing classic hits.

Hendershot’s Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7:30 p.m. $10 (adv.), $15. bit.ly/HendershotsMay30

MUDCAT AND THE REDEEMERS Guitarist and singer-­songwriter who has been a cornerstone of the Atlanta blues music scene for more than thirty years.

TERRAPLANE BLUE Versatile trio performing originals, traditional blues tunes and blues rock songs.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 8 p.m. $10.50 (children and students), $18. pac.uga.edu ATHENS CHORAL FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 56 singers and a 26-­piece orchestra perform Mendelssohn’s oratorio Elijah, conducted by Joseph Napoli.

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga RARE BIRDS Original music inspired by the best of ’70s rock, blues, gospel and soul.

The Root 10 p.m. FREE! www.therootathens. com SILENT DISCO Grab a pair of headphones, choose a music channel and dance the night away.

Southern Drawl Bar & Grille 6–9 p.m. www.southerndrawlbarand​ grille.com THE WOUNDED KATZ Playing classics to dance to.

Terrapin Beer Co. 2–5 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com WADE NEWBURY Easy listening tunes and classics on guitar.

Work.Shop 7 p.m. $7. www.workshopathens.com MERE OF LIGHT Solo project of electronic producer, songwriter, vocalist and electro-­acoustic harpist Elise McArdle.

EDDIE CHAPMAN A blend of incongruous traditions that represent the intersection of thoughtful craft with an outsider’s voice.

SKIRR Instrumental post-­rock from Athens.

LEA LEA Athens-­based secret bedroom pop.

Sunday 31 Athentic Brewing Co. 5–7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com JIMEE STOUNE AND THE BLUE BLAZES Performing blues, country and rock.

ATHICA 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.athica.org ALMOST MUSIC Free jazz trio made up of saxophone pioneer/ author Jack Wright, trumpet player Jonah Gelbart and upright bassist Evan Lipson BARDO LOGIC New outfit of local improvisers George Davidson, Emmie Pierce (sweetearthflying) and James Owens (Doom Ribbons).

The Globe 4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION Easy listening traditional Irish music.

The World Famous 9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous​ athens ZERO MOB Tampa, FL hardcore.

ALBUTEROL Atlanta-­based punk.

ARMS DEALER Welcome to the gun show punks.

REGULATOR Music for mounting up.

Monday 1

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $5. www.flickertheatreandbar.com ANSLEY MCALLISTER Country singer-­songwriter from Clarkesville.

EMILEIGH IRELAND Multi-­ instrumentalist, vocalist and artist from Michigan, now based in Athens.

ARIANNA Local musician known for collaborating in projects like pondgorl and the John Kiran Fernandes, Arianna Petersen, Franklin Russell Trio.

Tuesday 2 Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com BASICALLY NANCY Indie Savannah trio whose heavy tones paired with melodic sweetness portrays the experiences of being a young woman.

PENNY LOAFER Local “post-­ college rock” band delivering grunge-­tinged pop with sweet yet sometimes vicious compositions.

BRAND NEW COMPANION Rock band from Boise, ID. Hendershot’s 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials and live piano music.

Wednesday 3 Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand​ bar.com DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.

Hendershot’s Classic City Vintage Guitars Presents.

7 p.m. FREE! www.hendershots​ athens.com HENDERSHOT’S OPEN MIC NIGHT Discover new Athens musical talent.

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.

Down the Line 6/04 Jazzmyn, Misnomer (Dead Beat Club) 6/04 Mary & The Hot Hotty-­Hots (The Globe) 6/04 Uranium Club, Mr. [Redacted], Crying Form, Cruciflys, Sour Yellow (The World Famous) 6/05 Karaoke (Southern Drawl Bar & Grille) 6/05 7th Try, After All This, Kids in Kevlar, Nocturnae, Summer in the Psych Ward (Ciné) 6/05 Intension, Neutral Snap, Frigga Five, Andovia (40 Watt Club) 6/05 Red Henry and the House of Bamboo, Terry’s Dolmen, Your Ex’s Pets (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 6/05 Victor Charlie, Persistent Little Beeps (Dead Beat Club) f

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event calendar

Wednesday 27

ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-­in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org ART: Pints & Paint (Terrapin Beer Co.) Drop in for a guided painting session. 6:30 p.m. $10. www.terrapinbeer.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 GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco GAMES: The Great Hendershot’s Trivia Bee (Hendershot’s) A spelling bee-­inspired night featuring family-­friendly team trivia, wordplay and a Junior Spell-­Off for ages 6–13. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett.

Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Cafe Racer (Oak St.)) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia KIDSTUFF: Bean & Bear (Oconee County Library) Join an interactive performance featuring puppetry, magic and more. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/FilmAthens MEETINGS: Pencil Pushers Drink & Draw (Hendershot’s) Hang out and draw on the paper-­covered tables or bring your own sketchbook. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com THEATER: Beetlejuice (The Classic Center) Broadway musical show based on Tim Burton’s film. May 26–27, 7:30 p.m. $39.75–125.25. www.classiccenter.com

KIDSTUFF: LEGO Builder’s Challenge (Oconee County Library) Drop in to complete challenges and earn prizes. Ages 5–12. Fourth Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee LECTURES & LIT: Across The Board Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome.

Fourth Thursdays, 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book ClubDiscuss The Truth About Devlins by Lisa Scottoline with the group. 5:30​​p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

Thursday 28 CLASSES: Creative Aging Seated Yoga (Georgia Museum of Art) This class will include restorative stretching, deep breathing and mindfulness. All levels welcome.

RSVP by email. 10:30 a.m. FREE! gmoa-­tours@uga.edu CLASSES: Line Dancing Lesson (South Main Brewing) Learn some dances before the floor opens for social dancing, in benefit of the Athens Area Homeless Shelter. 7–9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. helpathenshomeless.org COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Flying Squid Comedy) Bring a loose funny bone to some home-­grown townie

art around town ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) “Lands Left” features landscape works by Greg Benson in the taproom. Through May. ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) Prompting artists to create the “wildest bathrooms in Athens,” artists Amanda Burk and Elinor Saragoussi designed installations for the Athenaeum bathrooms. Burk’s installation is titled “Mars: a color study,” and Saragoussi’s is titled “threshold (true): finding comfort in hidden worlds.”

ATHICA (675 Pulaski St. Ste. 1200) “Mutual Grit” features works within the theme of Georgia’s ecology and human impact on the environment. Through June 30.

ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Piecemeal” features collages by Brian George built piece by piece over two years. Through June 25.

AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) “The Silk Show ’26” features painted silks by Margaret Agner. Through July.

BMA AT HOME (1354 S. Milledge Ave.) Works by Seanne Woodall, Leah Laturell, Megan Roberts, Hannah Betzel and Natalie French are on display.

Through May. DODD SCHOOL OF ART (270 River Rd. Main Building, Room 105) “Turtle World” features ceramic works by UGA first-­year student Anthony Campos on view June 5–6 from 5 p.m.–9 p.m.

FARMINGTON POTTERY (1171 Freeman Creek Rd., Farmington) Open house with wood-­and gas-­fired pieces on display and available for purchase June 6–7.

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) “A Love Letter to Athens” features photography by Megan Savage. Through May. GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “Seeing the News in Harper’s Weekly, 1860–80” features Civil War-­era and Reconstruction-­era illustrations by Thomas Nast and Winslow Homer, curated by students in UGA’s Hands-­on Public History course. On view May 23–July 12. • Drawing on Ada Limón’s poem “In Praise of Mystery,” “We, Too, Are Made of Wonders” explores humanity’s fascination with the cosmos through poetry, science and visual art from the museum’s collection. Through June 28. • “Shacks,

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improv. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (short-­form), 8 p.m. (long-­form). $5. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com EVENTS: Dazed & Confused Trivia & Screening (Various Locations) In celebration of the film’s 50th anniversary, there will be a themed trivia with vintage prizes and free movie tickets to participants followed by a screening of the movie.

6 p.m. (trivia, Creature Comforts), 7:45 p.m. (screening, Ciné). www. creaturecomfortsbeer.com GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens

F L A GP OL E .C OM · M AY 2 7, 2026

Beetlejuice the musical will be performed at The Classic Center Theatre on May 26–27.

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Butt Hutt) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Athens’ Hardest Trivia Night (Nighthawks Lounge) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil.

7 p.m. www.nighthawkslounge.com

MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org

Stories and Spirit: Beverly Buchanan’s Art of Home” features works by Beverly Buchanan. The exhibition includes sculptures, drawings, photographs, print multiples, autobiographical ephemera and research materials alongside examples of her well-­known “shacks.” Through June 28. • asinnajaq’s “Three Thousand” combines archival videos from the National Film Board of Canada with animations, soundscapes and contemporary video footage. Through June 28. • On loan from the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art are 377 painted ceramic plates from Julie Green’s “The Last Supper” series inspired by death row inmates’ final meal requests. Through Aug. 16. • “Looking Through a Sewn Sky: Rachel B. Hayes” is a commissioned installation in the Jane and Harry Willson Sculpture Garden that blends sculpture, painting and craft. Through Jul. 30, 2027.

HISTORIC ATHENS WELCOME CENTER (280 E. Dougherty St.) In honor of National Historic Preservation Month, an exhibit titled “Dear Friend: We’ve Done it” will share the story of how the historic Church-­Waddel-­Brumby House was saved from demolition in 1967. Through May. JITTERY JOE’S (297 E. Broad St. & 1860 S. Barnett Shoals Rd) Whimsical paintings by Susan Pelham inspired by Magic Realism are on display at both the downtown and Eastside locations. Through May. LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.)“Surface Tension” features artwork by Erika Diamond and prosthetics by Chelsa Lillo that explore protection, identity and the fragility of the human body. Through June 27. • “Somethings” features small sculpture works by Ivy Laurel Anderson made from discarded mass-­produced objects. Through July 18.

MADISON-­MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 South Main Street, Madison) In celebration of the center’s 50th anniversary, the exhibition “experience and intersection” features works by John Cleaveland and the late Richard Olsen. Through October.

NANCY GREEN CERAMICS (1500 Tappan Spur Rd., Watkinsville) Nancy Green, Juana Gnecco and Kourtenay Plummer hold a Summer Group Studio Sale, with select pieces by Ron Meyers also on view. June 6–7, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

OCAF (34 School St. Watkinsville) “Before the End of Time” features oil paintings by Terry Rowlett. Through June 26. • In the Main Gallery, “Southworks” showcases a variety of mediums juried by Beth Malone and Rachel Waldrop. Through July 31. • “Art in the Family” presents multi-­

Friday 29

ART: Free Sketch Friday (Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum) Artists of all ages and skills can tour the museum then sketch items from the collections. All materials provided. 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. FREE! botgarden.uga.edu ART: Closing Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Works by Manda McKay will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.com COMEDY: Zane Lamprey (Terrapin Beer Co.) The nationally touring comedian will perform his Half Full show. Ages 21 & up. 7 p.m. $25. www.terrapinbeer.com EVENTS: A Good Story (1055 Barber) Athens’ first collective birthday celebration with cash bars, food trucks and activities for all ages.

5–10 p.m. www.50-fest.com EVENTS: Country Two-­Step Lesson (Social Dance Preserve) Learn the Country Western dance before the floor opens up for social dancing.

7–10:30 p.m. $10/each or $15/lesson & dancing. www.socialdance​ preserve.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia 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 LECTURES & LIT: Book Launch (OCAF) Author Ron Balthazor will discuss his new publication A Book of Seasons with light hors d’oeuvres and jazz from Trio Metro. RSVP requested. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www. ocaf.com THEATER: Footloose (Oconee Youth Playhouse) Oconee Youth Playhouse presents a stage adaptation

of the 1984 film starring Kevin Bacon. May 16–17 & 29–30, 7 p.m. May 17 & 31, 2:30 p.m. $15–20. www.oconeeyouthplay​ house.com

Saturday 30 COMEDY: Rapture Comedy Show (Sister Louisa’s Church Bar) Lineup of Southern-­based comedians. Last Saturdays, 9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/rapturecomedy_ 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 EVENTS: Comer Community Market (The Perch) Browse flower and vegetable plant starts, baked goods, vegetables, honey, pottery, eggs, mushrooms and handmade items. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www.theperchcomer. com/farmers-­market EVENTS: Athens Honey Bee Festival (Clarke County Extension Office) Enjoy honey tasting, hive explorations, plant sales, crafts and more. 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. FREE! extension.uga.edu EVENTS: Forest Heights Blueberry Festival (Forest Heights Neighborhood) The annual neighborhood festival raises money for a community blueberry planting project.

Activities include a children’s bike rally, cooking competition, homesteading demonstrations, outdoor concert, food trucks and more. 9:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. FREE! www.regenerators.earth/festival EVENTS: Project Homebound Dogs (Tractor Supply Co.) Meet a variety of trained and adoptable dogs from Project Homebound as they show

medium works by OCAF members and volunteers. July 3–31.

THE OLD PAL (1320 Prince Ave.) “Flowers in India Ink” features framed original India ink works on paper by Michele Dross. Opening reception May 27, 5–7 p.m.

STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave.) Athens printmaker Amanda Burk displays works combining traditional printmaking techniques with hand-­drawn and painted elements. Through June 28.

STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Reimagine: Contemporary Georgia Artists” presents 20 works from Georgia’s State Art Collection alongside pieces by local and regional artists including painting, ceramics, fiber, sculpture, photography and works on paper. Presented by the Georgia Council for the Arts as part of a statewide touring exhibition. Through May 29. • “Steffen Thomas Through the Eyes of Young Adults” is on display in the Educational Gallery. Changes quarterly.

TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Works by Manda McKay will be on display through May 29. Closing reception May 29, 6–9 p.m.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Captain Planet: The Power Is Yours” explores the origins and impact of the TV series.

Through May. • “Sustained Excellence: A History of UGA Swim & Dive” explores the program’s history through photographs and artifacts. Through May. • “Fashioning the Classic Bride: The Life and Career of Anne Barge” features 33 dresses from the UGA alumna. Through July. • “Beyond the ’96 Games: Atlanta’s Olympic Legacy” features an original torch from the opening relay and other authentic memorabilia. Through October.

UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (230 River Rd.) In the Lobby Gallery on the mezzanine level outside Ramsey Concert Hall are large-­scale paintings by Christopher Hocking with themes of pop culture, history, literature and more.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP (780 Timothy Rd.) “Claire and Bob’s Home Collection” is on view in the Claire and Robert Clements Gallery. Through May. WINTERVILLE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER (371 N. Church St., Winterville) The Third Annual Juried Show features works of various mediums by local artists. Through June 12. • Solo projects by Yvonne Studevan, James Cook, Leslie Moody and Paula Reynaldi are on display through June 12. • In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, “Rebellious Art, Treasonous Artists” is on view in Room 103. Through December.

off their learned skills. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.athenspets.net/project-­ homebound FILM: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (Ciné) Screening of the film with a conversation about “Aging in Reverse: Fact or Fiction?” with experts in science. 2 p.m. $9. www.athenscine.com KIDSTUFF: Family Fun Day (ACC Library) Join the Friends of the Library for a day of fun with face painting, a petting zoo, art projects and more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org KIDSTUFF: Family Day: Splash of Color (Georgia Museum of Art) Play gallery games, enjoy interactive storytime and create your own take-­ home project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org OUTDOORS: Creek Critters (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Experience hands-­on stream ecology while hiking along Beaver Creek. 1 p.m. $5/ person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill​ Bridge OUTDOORS: Sunset Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-­led paddle on the river and view the sunset. Registration required. 7:45 p.m. $15/person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge THEATER: Footloose (Oconee Youth Playhouse) Oconee Youth Playhouse presents a stage adaptation of the 1984 film starring Kevin Bacon. May 16–17 & 29–30, 7 p.m. May 17 & 31, 2:30 p.m. $15–20. www.oconeeyouthplay​ house.com

Sunday 31 CLASSES: Freely Improvised Music Workshop (OCAF) Jack Wright, Evan Lipson and Jonah Gelbart lead a discussion and demonstration of improvisational music. 1 p.m. $12 (members), $15 (non-­members). www.ocaf.com COMEDY: Comedy Showcase (The Globe) Athens Comedy hosts themed and general showcases of local and regional comedians.

Sundays, 9 p.m. www.athenscomedy.com GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 4 p.m. & 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens OUTDOORS: Moonlight Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-­led paddle on the river. Registration required. 11:15 p.m. $15/person, $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge OUTDOORS: Creek Critters (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) OUTDOORS: Pollinator Prairie Plant Inventory (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join park staff as they survey the on-­site pollinator garden. 4 p.m. $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge OUTDOORS: Sunset Paddle (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Enjoy a ranger-­led paddle on the river and view the sunset. Registration required. 7:30 p.m. $15/person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org THEATER: Footloose (Oconee Youth Playhouse) Oconee Youth Playhouse presents a stage adaptation of the 1984 film starring Kevin Bacon. May 16–17 & 29–30, 7 p.m. May 17 & 31, 2:30 p.m.

$15–20. www.oconeeyouthplay​ house.com

Monday 1 EVENTS: Oconee County Contra Dance (Social Dance Preserve) Community dance night on first and third Mondays. 7 p.m. (beginner lesson), 8–10 p.m. (dance). $10. www.oconeecountycontra.com GAMES: Chess and Community (ACC Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. Mondays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett.

Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccity​ triviaco KIDSTUFF: Parrots of the World (Bogart Library) Join Brenda Bean and her performing parrots for an afternoon of educational fun. Ages 11 & up. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart MEETINGS: Death Over Drafts (Athentic Brewing Co.) Conversation about talking to kids about death with certified child life specialist and professor Abby Baker. 6–8 p.m. organizingdeath@gmail.com

Tuesday 2 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: Frankenstein (Ciné) Screening of the film with a conversation about “Body Building: A DIY Kit” with experts in science. $11. 5:30 p.m. www.athenscine.com GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom​ Athens 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 GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your

general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco KIDSTUFF: Dino Fossils (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Harli to learn about fossils and enjoy a crafting project. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Bogart Bookies (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of West with Giraffes by Ariel Lawhon and discuss it with the group.

1 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 3 ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-­in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org ART: Opening Reception (The Old Pal) Local artist and ceramicist Michele Dross’ exhibition “Flowers in India Ink” will be on view. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/theoldpal 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: Garden Nights (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Enjoy a tour of the gardens, beverages, lawn games and more. Ages 18 & up. 6:30 p.m. $10 (members), $25 (non-­members). botgarden.uga.edu FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) While recording a horror movie score in a secluded villa, a young composer’s visitors are murdered by a lurking maniac in A Blade in the Dark. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/bloodevery​ where.athens GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunot​ trivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett.

Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Cafe Racer (Oak St.)) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia KIDSTUFF: Community Art Project (Oconee County Library) Join Brella Studios for a painting session. 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/oconee LECTURES & LIT: Word of Mouth (The Globe) Athens’ longest-­ running spoken word open mic, with this month’s featured reader Bob Ambrose. 6 p.m. (sign-­ups), 7 p.m. (poetry). FREE! www.facebook. com/athenswordofmouth f

arts & culture

calendar picks

MUSIC | THU, MAY 28

Classic City Sing-­Along

Little Kings Shuffle Club • 6 p.m. • FREE!

Keep Athens-­Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) is hosting a karaoke fundraiser benefiting local beautification efforts.

Attendees are invited to put on their best solos, duets and group performances with accompaniment from DJ LaDarius to make Athens cleaner and greener. KACCB is a nonprofit organization housed within the ACC Solid Waste Department’s Recycling Division whose mission is to educate and empower citizens and businesses to prevent littering, reduce waste and beautify the city. It is an affiliate of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Keep Georgia Beautiful Program and the national Keep America Beautiful program. Though Classic City Sing-­Along is a free event, donations will be accepted, and you can even make a donation to skip to the front of the karaoke line. [Mary Beth Bryan]

begins at 5:30 p.m. and features Flash to Bang Time, DJ Zach of the Booty Boyz, Pickled Holler, Wet Meadows and Oldies But Goodies Ukulele Band. The main site of the festival is Holly Court, but the Pop-­ Up Kids Park and book reading will be held on the field at Oglethorpe Baptist Church.

[MB] MUSIC | SAT, MAY 30

Sonic Space

ATHICA • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $10 suggested donation

Athens experimental music showcase Sonic Space is an immersive combination of live visuals and techno, house, electro and dance music. This month’s Sonic Space features four local and Atlanta-­based musical acts. First is Hamaixa, an electronics

MUSIC | FRI, MAY 29

Tattoo Logic Album Release

40 Watt Club • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $10

Athens funk/punk quintet Tattoo Logic’s self-­titled album is due May 29, and the band is celebrating with a release show alongside fellow local acts Annie Leeth, Women in STEM Tattoo Logic and Bohemian Mayday. Tattoo Logic introduced the record with and modular synth project inspired by “Ghost of a Chance,” which was originally house, electro and musique concrète. Next written and recorded in 2023. The band is forceghost solo set, an electronic psych/ explains that the song is “about a personification of guilt, detailing the grief associated ambient house music project. I Know Jones with death of a family member and the slim is third, using hardware synthesizers and drum machines to make electronic and chance that one can forgive themselves for ambient music that references the lineage not doing better while their forebearers of Black art across disciplines. The final were alive.” Other themes on the album artist is Smoggo, bringing modular-­synth include frontwomen Swathi Ramaswamy post-­punk and Detroit-­style minimal and Mía Hill’s experiences being women in the music scene and the difficulties of inter- techno. The visual aspect, curated by Jay Domingo and Ryan Schey, is provided by personal relationships. [MB] Phazed MMooNN Optix and Atlanta-­based EVENT | SAT, MAY 30 duo Lumanuisance. Expect texture, grit and feedback loops. [MB]

Forest Heights Blueberry Festival

Forest Heights Neighborhood • 9:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. • FREE!

The Forest Heights Blueberry Festival was created as a fundraiser for the Community Blueberry Project, which plants blueberry bushes to establish more perennial food sources in local neighborhoods and help build relationships amongst neighbors.

The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the BikeAthens Blueberry Rally for Kids and the Blueberry Hill 5K and Fun Run/Walk.

At 11 a.m. there will be a Blueberry Cook-­ Off Competition and a Pop-­Up Kids Park featuring a reading from the new children’s novel Forest Heights by festival co-­director and author Bart King. There will also be various how-­to demonstrations held in houses around the neighborhood from 1–5 p.m, including beer brewing, yoga and meditation, woodworking and more. The event will end with the Blueberry Jam concert, which

EVENT | THU, JUNE 3

Bubbles & Blooms

State Botanical Garden of Georgia • 6:30 p.m.

• $10 (members), $25

The Garden Nights event series provides an opportunity for couples, friends or solo adventurers to explore the State Botanical Garden on a more intimate scale. For each installment, a staff member from the garden highlights their favorite area, followed by a special activity. This time around, that staff member is Flower Garden Curator Jim Moneyhun, who will be talking about what is currently blooming in the garden and the pollinators that these summer blooms attract. Afterward, attendees will enjoy bubbly drinks and lawn games as the sun sets. Tickets include light snacks and two beverages. This event is designed for ages 18 and up. In the case of inclement weather, it will be held in the Visitor Center and Conservatory. [MB] f

M AY 2 7, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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bulletin board & classifieds BULLETIN BOARD: Listings from nonprofits, community resources and free opportunities. Print deadline is THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email calendar@flagpole.com.

CLASSIFIEDS: Rates are $10/individual * $14/real estate * $16/business. Deadline to place ads is FRIDAY at 10 a.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email class@flagpole.com or call 706-549-0301.

Classifieds FOR SALE (Yard Sales) Bring cash!

Sat, 5/30, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Edgewood Dr./​Kingswood Neighborhood Sale. Cigar boxes, apricot FireKing, Battenberg linens, Lesney, Art Deco glassware, chess sets, small tables, bookshelves and much more. Cash only.

HELP WANTED (Part-​Time) Junk South is hiring for the Crew Leader position. Must be 25 years or older, clean 3 year MVR and be a hands-​on leader. Starting pay + tip ~ $25/hr. Email us at info@junk​ south.com to find out more.

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.athensschoolof​ music.com. 706-​543-​5800 MUSIC (Musicians Wanted) 20 yr. old male guitar player looking to form or join an alternative rock/ metal band. Check out my originals and DM me on IG @gmarkey2024.

Serious inquiries only.

MUSIC (Services) Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton and College Dwntn. 706-​612-​4926 REAL ESTATE (Room for Rent) Room

for rent w/private BA. Located in Watkinsville. $1000/mon all inclusive. Graduate student preferred.

Call 706-​286-​0138 for more information.

SERVICES (Classes) SUMMER CAMPS at Merit Music Academy are now open! Songwriting, Rock ’n Roll, Piano, and even Puppetry and Comedy camps. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or 9 a.m.–5 p.m. options available.

Read more at MeritMusicAcademy. com/camps.

SERVICES (Classes) Change the direction of your life in 6 months -​from burnout to balance. Flexible career, enrolling now w/July program start. Strada Institute, School of Massage. www.athensmassage​ school.com SERVICES (Home & Garden) Professional interior and exterior painting services. Fully insured. Call Ryan at 706-​410-​0177 or email at normalpainting@proton.me for a free quote.

SERVICES (Home & Garden) Scratching your head with all this poison ivy? We can help! Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible and native gardens for your school, home or business! 706-395-5321 SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in low-​main-

tenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@ gmail.com or call 631-​903-​4365.

Arts ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a free platform to connect creatives with patrons. www.athenscreatives. directory CALL FOR ART (Various Locations) Visit www.flagpole.com/bulletin​ board for ongoing open art calls.

CALL FOR ART (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking art submissions for upcoming Pet Portrait Exhibition.

Artists of all skill levels and ages that meet guidelines are invited to submit up to two art pieces. Drop off May 29–30. On view June 18– Aug. 29. www.accgov.com/11761/ Pet-​Portraits CALL FOR ART (Winterville Cultural Center Gallery) Taking inspiration from 18th-​century political and satirical art, entrants are invited to contribute their own works which speak to their personal conceptions of Revolution and Rebellion. Submissions accepted through June 8. On view June 9–Sept. 15. www. wintervillecenter.com/gallery CALL FOR ARTISTS (Circulating Stamp Project) Take part in an interactive experience to create a

ADOPT ME!

Visit www.accgov.com/257/Available-Pets to view all the cats and dogs available at the shelter

PennyLane(49915759)

Penny Lane is a happy, welldressed lady who first came to the shelter with her brother Kato.

She loves dancing on her hind legs to earn a treat and spending time relaxing in a friend’s lap.

Jack (60938291)

Jack is a sweet boy with the most adorable big ears. After you give him a minute to warm up to you, he’ll soak up all the love and attention you can give him. Adopt or foster Jack today!

Chili (60865232

As you can see, Chili is a big fan of toys! Even though she’s a senior at 12 years old, this sweetheart still loves chasing after balls and playing around with all her friends at the shelter.

These pets and many others are available for adoption or foster at:

Athens-Clarke County Animal Services 125 Buddy Christian Way · 706-613-3540 Call for appointment

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · M AY 2 7, 2026

limited-​edition postcard while visiting multiple art venues across separate participating venues including ATHICA, Georgia Museum of Art, Lyndon House Arts Center and Winterville Cultural Center Gallery.

Through May 31. www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse CALL FOR MURAL LOCATION (Double Helix) Students from the Double Helix Steam School are offering to paint a free mural for a local business/organization. kquinn@doublehelixschool.com CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box seeks story ideas for upcoming shows. www.rabbit​ box.org/tell CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper.

Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics. enagementcoordinator​ @athenshc.org COMMUNITY TOURS (Georgia Museum of Art) A variety of tours open to the public including “Student Perspectives” which runs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays throughout the month. www.georgia​ museum.org PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS (Athens, GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-​Art-​Selection-​Panels

Auditions 1776 THE MUSICAL (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) Interested performers should bring a 32 bar cut of a song in the style of the show or a 30–60 second monologue of their choosing. Sign up for a 10 minute slot required. June 11 & 12, 5:30-​9:30 p.m. www.winterville​center.com/ ANTIGONE (Town & Gown) Seeking a variety of performers for classic drama. June. 9–10. Performances held Aug. 7–16. www.townandgown​ players.org

Classes A COURSE IN MIRACLES (855 Tallassee Rd.) Heal your psychology and your life using simple instruction of high vibrational thought. Sundays, 10–11:30 a.m.

770-​237-​2354 ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 & up.

Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com CLASSES, HIKES & PADDLES (Watson Mill State Park, Comer) The park offers a variety of events including firebuilding classes, various educational hikes including “Bridge History,” “Tree ID,” “Historic Mills” and more. Parking fee/ pass required for all events. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge 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 & PROGRAMS (Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-​person classes. Topics include Affordable Housing Info and Homebuyer Education Course. www.athens​ landtrust.org/classes-​events CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including ESL (Tuesdays and Thursdays), Knit Lits Knitting (Thursdays) and more.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly

events including Drop-​In Painting (Tuesdays), Open Chess Play (Saturdays), Mixed Media Meetup (Mondays) and more.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Winterville Cultural Center, Winterville) The Basics of Crocheting (Thursdays), Yoga in the Gallery (Tuesdays and Wednesdays), Tai Chi (Wednesdays) and more. www. wintervillecenter.com CLASSES, PROGRAMS & TOURS (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Various ongoing weekly events including Guided Plant Walk (Tuesdays–Fridays), Porcelain and Decorative Arts Tour (Tuesdays), Free Sketch (Fridays) and more. botgarden.uga.edu CLASSES, PROGRAMS & WORKSHOPS (OCAF, Watkinsville) Registration now open for extended session pottery classes, art instruction and more. www.ocaf.com/ courses CUBAN SALSA LESSONS (El Carretonero) SALSAthens offers multiple classes for different skill levels.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced) and 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10 drop in. www.SALS​ AthensDancing@gmail.com DANCE CLASSES (The Studio) TIMBAthens & Bachata Conexión host a 9-​week workshop series for salsa and bachata dancers of all levels.

June 7–Aug. 9, 4:30 p.m. No class July 5. Registration required. www. timbathens.com/events.

DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/myrec FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @ athensfreeschool on Instagram.

Help Out ATHENS SKATEPARK PROJECT (Athens Skate Park) Seeking volunteers and community input. Third Sundays. www.athensskatepark​ project.org BRAS FOR A CAUSE (Grail Bra Specialists) Seeking donations of gently-​used bras for distribution to local shelters, recovery centers and communities in need. 706-​850-​ 0387 or support@grailbras.com

DIAPER DONATIONS (Athens Area Diaper Bank) Diaper donations needed for local infants. All sizes and open packs/boxes are accepted. www.athensareadiaper​bank.com FIRE PIT RAFFLE (Friends of the Madison County Library) Madison County Library hosts a raffle for an outdoor gas fire pit to benefit various programs. $1 per ticket, unlimited entries. The winning ticket will be drawn in November after the Madison County Harvest Festival. www.athenslibrary.org/madison MEDICAL EQUIPMENT (Friends of Disabled Adults and Children) Free home medical equipment provided to those in need. Athens locations for pickup at Northeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging and Multiple Choices. Donations also accepted. www.fodac.org MEDICAL EQUIPMENT EXCHANGE (Silver Lace) Open registration for consideration for free mobility and daily living medical items. Donations also accepted. www.silverlace​ inc.org, info@silverlace.org MICROCHIP SCANNING STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Connect lost pets with their owners. Available 24 hours. Located at ACC Animals Services, Memorial Park Dog Park and Southeast Clarke Park. Instructions provided at each location.

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. 706-​850-​4025, dmyers@ multiplechoices.us SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Athens Area Arts Council) The council is accepting applications from individuals who can commit to monthly meetings and have a passion for the arts. www.athensarts.org 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​ biggervisionshelter@gmail.com, www.bvoa.org/boardmember SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Moms Adopting Moms) Local nonprofit seeks board members, including a chair and treasurer, to support foster children and families through mentorship and reunification. momsadoptingmoms@ gmail.com SEEKING DONATIONS (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 DONATIONS (Hands of Hope) Local homeless ministry accepting donations of winter clothing for their free distribution program. Other donations accepted for fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting program. 706-​207-​5172 SEEKING DONATIONS & VOLUNTEERS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Animal service sessions run Monday through Friday; training session required. Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and rags. Donations can be dropped off at the door after hours. www. accgov.com/animalservices SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (PAX Exchange Students) Seeking volunteer families to host global exchange students. www.pax.org, 800-​555-​6211 SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (St. Mary’s Home Health & Hospice) Seeking volunteers to provide companionship or to help with simple tasks for those in hospice care. Training provided. 706-​389-​2273

TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store.

Please bring credentials. www. accgov.com/trs VOLUNTEER NETWORK (Community Works, Watkinsville) A nonprofit organization that connects volunteers of all ages to events, resources and training opportunities. CWorksOC@gmail.com

Kidstuff ARCHAEOLOGY SUMMER CAMP (Carter-​Coile Country Doctors Museum, Winterville) Registration now open. Camp attendees will conduct a real archaeological excavation with an experienced group of historians and educators. Ages 12 & up. June 1–5, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. $150. wintervillehistory@gmail. com, 706-​389-​5151 CLASSES & PROGRAMS (ACC Leisure Services Department) Various ongoing weekly and monthly events including Jumping Gym, 123 Toddler & Me!, Fantastic Friday, Storytime and more. www.accgov. com/myrec CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including LEGO Mania (Wednesdays), Storytime with Miss Harli (Mondays), Sensory Open Play (Tuesdays) and more. www. athenslibrary.org/bogart CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly events including Kids Yoga and Open Play (Tuesdays), Story Time and Cocoa Club (Wednesdays), and more. www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee GRAND SLAM SUMMER PROGRAM (Lay Park) Evenings include games, giveaways, guest speakers, life enrichment activities, music, refreshments, sports and more. For ages 11–17. Fridays through May 29–July 24 6–9 p.m. www.accgov. com/grandslam HISTORY CAMP (Crawford Long Museum, Jefferson) Registration now open for the Masterpiece Makers day camp. Learn about and create a variety of art from around the world. Ages 6–10. $110. June 8–12, 9:45 a.m.–2 p.m. daily. Limited availability. 706-​367-​5307 LEARN TO SWIM (ACC Leisure Services Department) Registration open for variety of lessons for ages over 3 years old including Swim School, Parent/Tot Swim School and Adult Swim Lessons. $33 per session. Additionally, a free Kinderswim program is offered for 5-​year-​ old children. Registration required for all events. www.accgov.com/ aquatics SPRING & SUMMER CAMP (Canopy Studios) Registration for a variety of day camp dates for grades K-​12 is now available. www.canopy​ studio.org/class-​schedule/camps SUMMER CAMP (Athens Area Humane Society) Registration is now open for “Humane Heroes” and “Junior Vet” summer camps in June & July. Ages 6–14. www.athens​ humanesociety.org/summer-​camp SUMMER CAMP (OCAF, Watkinsville) Registration now open for variety of summer camp opportunities including improv, puppet making, mixed media art and more.

Ages 7–14. www.ocaf.com/kids SUMMER CAMP (Nowhere Archery) Traditional archery and outdoor education day/sleep away camps in the Beloved Land. Learn camping skills, canoeing, woodcraft and more. Registration now open.

Scholarships available. www. nowherearchery.com/summer-​ camp

SUMMER CAMP (Nuçi’s Space) A production, engineering, mixing and live sound curriculum added to the two week summer Camp Amped sessions. Registration now open.

Financial aid available. www.nuci. org/camp SUMMER CAMP (Sweet Olive Farm, Winterville) Registration is now open for a variety of summer camps in June & July including overnight stays. Ages 5–12. www.sweetolive​ farm.org/collections/2026-​summer-​ camps SUMMER PROGRAMS (ACC Leisure Services Department) Registration open for diverse selection of activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and special events. www.accgov. com/myrec

YOU ARE INVITED A NEW IDEA FOR A JOINT CELEBRATION

A GOOD STORY ATHENS’ FIRST COLLECTIVE BIRTHDAY

Word on the Street CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS (APQC) Seeking parade participants, vendors and volunteers for Pridefest.

Deadlines vary. Event held June 6. www.linktr.ee/athensgapride CALL FOR VENDORS (Historic Athens Welcome Center) Applications now open for Market Days featuring fresh foods, baked goods and specialty items. Every second Saturday beginning in June. $25 per market or $80 for the full four-​market series. www.athenswelcomecenter. com CITY TOURS (Historic Athens Welcome Center) A variety of guided tours available including a daily shuttle tour, walking tour of the downtown area and local music tour. Schedule in advance. www. athenswelcomecenter.com FRIDAY EVENTS (Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living) The organization hosts ongoing Friday gatherings. Tech discussions, support groups, movies and games. www.multiplechoices.us/youre-​ invited MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (Nuçi’s Space) Direct connections to mental healthcare like counseling and psychiatry, medical care for physical concerns and more. www. nuci.org, 706-​227-​1515 MINDFUL BREATH SANGHA MEETING (Healing Lodge) In the Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Sundays, 1–2:30 p.m. Newcomers welcome.

Free. www.mindfulbreathsangha.org SEEKING CAMP COUNSELORS (Sweet Olive Farm, Winterville) Now accepting applications for Counselors In Training for a variety of summer camp programs. Kat at howdy@sweetolivefarm.org or 770-​365-​7782.

SEVENTH GENERATION (No. 3 Railroad Street, Arnoldsville) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts various gatherings on Sundays, 11 a.m. 706-​340-​7134 VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA) Seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive. www.vhsordie.com VOTER REGISTRATION RESOURCES (ACC Library Atrium) Economic Justice Coalition community volunteers assist Georgia residents with registration, confirm prior registration and update voter registration information as needed. www.economicjusticecoalition.org

Missing Something?

MORE LISTINGS (Online) Find the Bulletin Board at www.flagpole. com/bulletinboard for ongoing open art calls, support group information and other resources that are available on a continuous basis. f

M AY 2 7, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

17

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! IN THE 2026-2027

flagpole

GUIDE TO ATHENS (DISTRIBUTED IN AUG 2026)

Space Reservation Deadline: June 16 th 5% Early Payment Discount Deadline: June 1st

GREAT FOR NEWCOMERS, VISITORS, AND LOCALS!

THE GUIDE FEATURES: • THE ONLY COMPREHENSIVE RESTAURANT, BAR, & CLUB LISTINGS • INFORMATION ABOUT LOCAL ART, PARKS, EVENTS

Contact the Flagpole Advertising Department 706-549-0301 or ads@flagpole.com 18

F L A GP OL E .C OM · M AY 2 7, 2026

music

threats & promises

Other Voices, Other Rooms’ Snow Moon PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com THANK YOU FOR BEING OUR FRIEND: It is with a heavy heart and incredible sadness that we mention the passing of music scene veteran and friend to countless people, Stephen Ernest Cramer, who died on Monday, May 18. I cannot recall exactly when he and I met, but it was well over two decades ago. While he made no secret that he suffered from mental health issues, he was also incredibly proactive in seeking help for himself and others. His Brain Aid events helped people feel not alone in struggle, and assisted in further removing the stigma of asking for help. The amount of folks he lent a hand to, befriended and made to feel cherished is innumerable. One thing about Stephen is he saw people. The overlooked, marginalized and forgotten. He was not just a friend to the friendly, but a friend to the friendless. He was as fierce an advocate for simple humanity as anyone I’ve ever known. On a personal note, he helped me further understand often confusing mental issues like schizophrenia and helped me cultivate a more empathetic perspective. Most recently he was living in California, but news of his death by suicide hit the Athens music scene and community, as well as his extended network of pals and acquaintances nationwide, like a tidal wave. He was a lovely man, and he will be missed. I know he would appreciate the following information being included here: If you are experiencing mental health distress or are feeling suicidal, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available 24/7.

Dial 988 for help. For help in person on a local level, please contact Nuçi’s Space online at nuci.org/health-­and-­wellness, via email to counseling@nuci.org or call 706-­227-­1515.

provocative electronic wrangler Smoggo. Visuals this night are provided by Allanta’s Lumanuisance and Athens-­based Phazed MMooNN Optix. In an email, organizer Monty Greene (Nerveclinic) said that this is a night of “immersive experience combining techno, house, electro and dance music performed on live electronics and hardware alongside live visuals and video work curated by Jay Domingo and Ryan Schey.” Doors are at 7 p.m., and music starts at 8 p.m. Generally speaking these Sonic Space shows run about $10–$12.

COME CLOSER AND SEE: OK, yes, there was an awesome Flagpole premiere by Mary Beth Bryan on this record only a couple of weeks ago, but I still need to get my say in. Has it really been nearly five years since we heard new music from the noisy post-­punkish Coma Therapy? Yes it has. The band, however, just released a new self-­titled full-­length album, and it’s a beast of a listen. While still expertly plowing the rough parameters of dark underground rock and roll, this album stretches its aesthetic. To wit, the epic opening song “Falling Out Of Formation” contains all the grandeur of mid-­period Radiohead and the spiritual destruction of The Doors’ “The End” while cloaking each in a new shade of black. It’s a fantastic way to introduce this collection. It’s

GO NORTHWEST: I’ve never mentioned any events happening at the record pressers Echo Base complex (147 Fritz Mar Lane), so let’s fix that. On Saturday, May 30 work.shop’s space will feature performances by Athens dream pop/ looper artist Lea Lea, Wisconsin’s Eddie Chapman, Mere of Light (New Orleans-­based artist Elise McArdle), and Athens band Skirr. Things get cooking around 7 p.m., and it’ll run ya $7. Get in on the ground floor via gaussmke.bandcamp.com, mereoflight.com and psychedelea.bandcamp.com.

THIS IS THE WAY, STEP INSIDE: For the first time in his years-­long existence as a live performing concern, Other Voices, Other Rooms has an external label releasing his music. Specifically Athens label Lead Mouth has put out his brand new tape, Snow Moon, which OVOR recorded live to two-­track cassette tape back in January. While I’ve said similar things about his previous work, this is a treat for your headphones.

Although recorded live, and presumably with at least some portion of improvisation contained therein, this is eminently listenable. Working with synth hardware, OVOR is conscious of his audience while being faithful to his creative spirit and tendencies. Thus, this 20-­minute foray into live electronics is a very nice entry-­level doorway for those unfamiliar with his work. Cassette tapes and digital downloads are available at leadmouth.bandcamp.com. OVOR next performs live at Flying Squid on June 6.

BUZZ BUZZ BUZZ: A whopper of a bill awaits you punters at the next instance of Sonic Space at ATHICA. It’s happening Saturday, May 30 and will feature live electronics and modular synth music from Hamaixa (Athens), ambient house by Forceghost <solo> (Athens), electronic genre-­spanning Atlanta artist I Know Jones, and aurally

not all bombast, though, as tracks like “Crawling Through Tight Spaces” surfs classic shoegaze waves and “Delirium” is heavily tuneful even through its urgency. Finding out this was recorded by Kyle Spence (Harvey Milk) is just a bonus.

Find this at comatherapy.bandcamp.com.

ON YOUR CASE, IN YOUR FACE: Things are getting super-­tight here in Threats & Promises land with regard to space, and I may no longer feature stand-­alone singles. But, for now, let’s talk about the moody slow burn thrash of “Dotage”

by Rosie & The Ratdogs, which comes out this Friday, May 29. The band has nailed this arrangement such that the song builds in intensity while never increasing its tempo. It’s an effect that comes close to claustrophobia but never truly succumbs. The vocals are more storytelling than overly emotive, and I could do without the sing-­speak section around the 1:45 mark, but we can talk about that later. For now, find this on release day (or after!) on major streaming services, as well as rosieandtheratdogs.bandcamp.com. f

SUDOKU

CLARKE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2026 VALEDICTORIANS & SALUTATORIANS

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

1 5

8 9 2 7 5 3 2 4 2 8 2 7 3 6 9 5 8 5 4 3 6 2 3 2 Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

HOW TO SOLVE:

CLASSIC CITY

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain Week 5/25/261- to 5/31/26 theofnumbers 9.

The Weekly Crossword 4

5

6

14

15

17

18

20

7

Salutatorian

Noah Kilpatrick

Waylon Vaughn

Valedictorian

Salutatorian

Christopher Koch

Chizoba Emegwam

by Margie E. Burke 9

10

11

12

29

30

13

22

24

2 7 1 3 8 4 9 5 6 26 27 6 3 5 9 2 1 7 4 8 31 32 33 8 9 4 6 7 5 3 2 1 36 37 4 5 9 1 6 2 8 7 3 42 40 41 1 8 2 7 5 3 4 6 9 45 3 446 7 4 9 8 2 146 5 48 49 8 7 5 1 3 2 4 9 6 51 7 524 538 5 3 6 1 9 254 57 9 2 6 8 1 7 5 358 4

28 34 38

35 39

CLARKE CENTRAL

43 47 50 55

56

59

60

61

62

63

64

65

ACROSS 1 Alpine transport 5 Spiral shell 10 Smack hard 14 Almond ___ (candy) 15 Rudimentary seed 16 Drug drop, maybe 17 Inventory unit 18 Intent on 20 The Doors guitarist Robby 22 Made some changes 23 Bag closure 25 "Honest" prez 27 Venetian traveler 28 Italian "Shroud" city 31 Most genuine 34 Place for a perm 36 Court records 37 Discourage 39 Floating ice 40 Kind of porridge 42 Neighbor of Jordan 44 Kilt fold 46 Casino worker's task

Valedictorian

19

21

25

Arianna Ellison

16

Solution to Sudoku: 23

8

Jonathan King

Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

47 TV's "___ Lasso" 48 Make more efficient 51 Do-it-yourselfer 54 Typed in 57 Compensate 59 Die down 60 Picked up the tab 61 Really takes off 62 Flag down 63 Serkis or Samberg 64 Food servers 65 Review site DOWN 1 Arduous journey 2 Engine sound 3 Jackie Chan's "The _____ Spy" 4 "Real Time" host Bill 5 Secret term 6 Miss a wake-up call 7 Threaded fastener 8 Cloudless 9 Solitary sort 10 Burn unit procedure

11 Flag waver?

12 Out of the wind 13 Barber Sweeney 19 Bills of fare 21 Anagram for "page" 24 Tex-Mex munchie 25 Pronto 26 Oft-displayed muscle 29 Unable to read 30 Everybody's opposite 32 Careful analysis 33 Data transmission 35 Requisite 38 Authenticity 41 Moth-___ 43 Buttonhole, e.g.

45 Most faithful 49 Baseball blunder 50 Informative 51 It's plucked in Palermo 52 Part of G.M.T. 53 In a group of 55 Lab compound 56 13-Down portrayer 58 Motorist's org.

Puzzle answers are available at www.flagpole.com/puzzles

CEDAR SHOALS

LET PEIKEN HELP! PRONOUNCED I CAN HELP

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SAFOR LE

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REFOR N T

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Valedictorian

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M AY 2 7, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

19

BIRTH CONTROL MADE EASY

ATHENS AREA

HEALTH DEPARTMENTS

NortheastHeal thDistrict.org