New Orleans-based Americana songwriter Dusky Waters and her trio will perform with Toni Hunlo at Hendershot’s on Sunday, June 14. For more shows this weekend, see the Live Music Calendar on p. 13.
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 Chris Dowd, Erin France, Gordon Lamb, Rebecca McCarthy, 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
online exclusive
In-person early voting for runoff elections started Monday, June 8 and continues through Friday afternoon. Locations are the Athens-Clarke County Elections Office at 155 E. Washington St. downtown next to City Hall; the ACC Library at 2025 Baxter St.; and the ACC Tennis Center at 4460 Lexington Road, in Southeast Clarke Park.
See “Early Voting Is Underway for Athens and Statewide Runoffs” at flagpole.com.
The Choice Is Ours
ATHENS FORWARD OR TIM DENSON?
By Pete McCommons pete@flagpole.com
If Athens Forward had been in control here in 1801, when John Milledge and his committee rode in on horseback looking for a university site, they would have told Milledge, “Nah. We’re doing just fine with our grist mill and stuff down on the Oconee. Why don’t you boys ride on over to Watkinsville or Greensboro? We don’t want a woke college giving people funny ideas around here.”
They’re still at it. Athens Forward wants to take Athens backward to a nostalgic Athens controlled by people just like them.
Of course Athens Forward, which sent out the fake mailer “proving” why we should vote for Dexter Fisher instead of Tim Denson, is an anonymous group that lives in a post office box, but their politics mirror those of the Athens business men and women who are the core of Dexter Fisher’s support and financial backing. And, of course, Dexter Fisher has wide support among all kinds of people in Athens- Clarke County, and he had long careers at UGA and the local school system before he was elected to the Athens- Clarke County Commission.
as a labor organizer and with Athens for Everyone and has a decade of experience in the service industry. He has also served on the ACC Commission and the board of education, where he worked with his colleagues to get things done.
What is a Democratic Socialist anyway?
Birthday Boy
THERE ARE BETTER THINGS TO CELEBRATE IN JUNE THAN TRUMP
By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com
“ It boils down to whether Athens will be run by the developers or by the citizens.
From their website: “We want a democracy that creates space for us all to flourish, not just survive, and answers the fundamental questions of our lives with the input of all. We want to collectively own the key economic drivers that dominate our lives, such as energy production and transportation. We want the multiracial working class united in solidarity instead of divided by fear. We want to win ‘radical’ reforms like single-payer Medicare for All, defunding the police/refunding communities, the Green New Deal and more as a transition to a freer, more just life.”
Ha! Watch out, Georgia Power. Of course, Kelly Girtz and any of our former mayors will tell you that whatever your own politics, you’ve got to work with 10 different commissioners representing diverse constituencies throughout this large community, and balancing their needs and priorities becomes far more important than any personal agenda you might have.
But this election is not about Dexter Fisher. It’s about the Athens Forward- type people who, if they can’t take us back to the 1950s, will settle for the benign days when Nancy Denson was mayor and basically nothing happened that they didn’t want. And like Dexter Fisher, Nancy Denson is a Democrat (or was; the local party removed her for supporting Republican Houston Gaines in 2017) and a fine and friendly person with extensive experience in local government even before she was elected mayor. But she was elected because of the same people who are backing Dexter Fisher, and they got the same result from her that they’ll expect from him.
The Athens Forward folks will not control Tim Denson, and they know that, and they are pouring their money and effort into defeating him.
You can understand why. Tim Denson is a Democratic Socialist. His current day job is working with people facing health crises and homelessness. He has worked
“June is bustin’ out all over” sang the exuberant cast of the hit Broadway show Carousel in 1945. The song is an earthy appreciation of the month when summer begins and love blossoms. Its songwriters, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, encapsulated the joys of June into a catchy tune that stands the test of time.
In Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump turns 80 years old on June 14. Trump plans to host an Ultimate Fight Club event to celebrate the occasion, changing the quiet dignity of the White House lawn into a tacky, tawdry Caligula casino. After destroying the White House’s East Wing and rose garden, Trump now brings Las Vegas to the nation’s capital for his birthday bash.
tolerates no opposition.” La Follette is an American politician worthy of celebrating on June 14.
The month of June is filled with historic days and deeds. One of the most significant days in world history happened on June 6, 1944: the D-Day invasion of Nazi-occupied France by American and allied military forces. The decisive D-Day victory was the beginning of the end for Adolf Hitler’s craven regime. On a deadly June day more than 80 years ago, the forces of freedom battled the forces of fascism. That battle
To me, the main difference between Dexter Fisher and Tim Denson is that one is owned by the Athens-Forwardtype folks and the other is owned by the folks. But that’s a really big difference.
The Athens Forward crowd has always seen Tim Denson as a threat. Don’t forget that they called in their attack dogs from the legislature—Houston Gaines and Bill Cowsert and them—and they redistricted Tim Denson out of his commission seat. And who got it? Dexter Fisher.
There’s a lot at stake in this mayoral election, and it boils down to whether Athens will be run by the developers or by the citizens, by those who need the government’s help to make money or those who need the government’s help to lead decent lives.
Ever since the beginnings of Athens down at that grist mill on the river, we’ve been faced at each election with the choice between the people and some power group that wants to control us. But it’s rare that the choice is so stark as this one between Athens Forward and its nemesis Tim Denson. It will be poetic justice if he can survive their onslaught and keep Athens under the control of its citizens. It can happen. “The mills of the gods grind slowly, but they grind exceeding fine.” f
While Trump and his MAGA minions celebrate with noise, neon, puffery and pugilistics on June 14, the date also marks the birth of Wisconsin politician and reformer Robert La Follette, born on June 14, 1855. Dubbed “Fightin’ Bob” by his supporters, La Follette began his long political career in 1884, when he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. He went on to serve as Wisconsin’s governor and as a senator from the state. In 1924 he campaigned for the presidency on the Progressive Party ticket, winning nearly 17% of the popular vote—still one of the best showings in history for a U.S. third party in a presidential election.
“Fightin’ Bob” La Follette died on June 18, 1925 but to this day his statue stands in the U.S. Capitol, where he fought for such causes as world peace, women’s rights and economic opportunity. If La Follette were still alive on this year’s June 14, his words would still be relevant reminders for birthday boy Trump.
“Democracy is a life and involves continual struggle,” said La Follette. Today democracy is endangered as authoritarianism stalks this land. A century ago La Follette struggled against what he called “the power of the private monopoly over the political and economic life of the American people.” That struggle continues now more than ever today.
La Follette opposed America’s entry into World War I and President Woodrow Wilson’s postwar Red Scare repression that resulted in thousands of arrests and prison sentences for American political dissidents in a nation that had claimed to be fighting to “make the world safe for democracy.” In these times of war abroad and fear at home, La Follette’s long ago words of warning still apply: “Every nation has its war party. It is commercial, imperialistic, ruthless. It
continues today as fascism, repression and authoritarianism are again on the march in America and around the world.
June has long been a time when African Americans remembered their history in this country. The annual Juneteenth celebrations began in 1866 to commemorate the end of slavery in America. Sometimes called “America’s second Independence Day,” the June 19 observance became a national holiday in 2021.
June is also the month when the National Organization for Women was founded on June 30, 1966. The organization began during the administration of President Lyndon Johnson and its work continues with urgency today.
On a hot summer night in New York City, history was again made in the month of June when police raided the Stonewall Inn, a bar in the city that was frequented by LGBTQ customers. Such police raids were commonplace, but on June 28, 1969 LGBTQ people fought back. The “Stonewall riot” brought needed reforms, and celebrations of LGBTQ rights continue to this day across America.
June is a month of history and hope. Poet James Russell Lowell was right in 1848 when he asked, “What is so rare as a day in June?” f
A portrait of Robert La Follette as a U.S. senator, circa 1910.
Ever since its beginnings, there’s been a struggle for control of Athens.
New Courthouse Approved
PLUS, NORTH AVENUE TRAFFIC CALMING AND MORE LOCAL NEWS
By Blake Aued, Chris Dowd, Rebecca McCarthy and Lily Thomas news@flagpole.com
After years of discussion, the Athens- Clarke County Commission has finally decided on the location of the new judicial center: 120 W. Dougherty St. the current site of the ACC Planning Department. The commission has also approved a tentative six- story concept for the new building, which will span over 200,000 square feet.
The downtown site was chosen because of public preference, and because of the improved operational efficiency and accessibility the location offers. For example, the site is served by multiple transit routes going in both directions.
Chief State Court Judge Charles Auslander and Chief Superior Court Judge Lisa Lott spoke during public comment in favor of the new site and other recommendations. “The courthouse that we sit in now is a glorious building. It’s absolutely beautiful, but it has outlived our needs. We are so desperately in need of more space and different security than was required in 1900 when the building was built,” Lott said.
Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the Dougherty Street site, tentative design and general plan for how construction will be funded by issuing bonds through an existing urban redevelopment agency. However, commissioners did express concerns about the project’s $225 million price tag and about the potential impact construction will have on First AME Church, which is immediately adjacent to the planned site.
“We have a very historic church right next door. We have our north downtown Athens community right next door,” Commissioner Melissa Link said. “I want to ensure that those folks have direct input moving forward on the design of the building.”
Commissioner Dexter Fisher said, “We talk about $200 million. How are we going to fund that? That has to be a big consideration moving forward. I wish they would give us some other alternatives we could look at besides going six stories. Could we do four stories and still use the old courthouse for some other things?”
Commissioners could decide to use the next SPLOST to pay off the debt that will be incurred during construction of the judicial center. But if voters reject SPLOST at the ballot box, a very large property tax hike (estimated at 2.59 mils) may become necessary.
If all goes according to plan, construction of the new judicial center will start in early 2028 and will take about two years. The existing courthouse will then be renovated and used for municipal offices currently scattered throughout the county, which would then be sold.
RAISE GRANT: In a big win for traffic safety advocates, the commission has approved a staff-recommended plan to “reimagine” North Avenue using a $25 million federal RAISE grant. The plan includes a multiuse path to improve pedestrian and bike safety, and it will narrow North Avenue to four lanes to slow traffic
heading into downtown, among other safety improvements.
The Biden-era grant was left for dead last year when ACC staff were running up against a hard reimbursement deadline, and commissioners didn’t want to start the project late and risk not being paid back. There seemed to be no choice but to abandon the grant when earlier this year, the Republican- controlled U.S. Congress unexpectedly came through with a five- year grant extension.
Five years is still not a lot of time for a project this large, so ACC staff are recommending their original four-lane option instead of the five-lane plan selected by commissioners in 2024. Five lanes would take significantly longer because any sidewalk improvements would widen North Avenue beyond its current footprint. That would result in long construction delays as slivers of land were acquired along the entire stretch from many different property owners. ACC staff believe a five-lane option might also trigger a lengthy environmental review.
Aaron Redman, a member of the Athens in Motion Commission, urged ACC commissioners to support the four-lane option, saying that North Avenue’s current design “encourages excessive speeds” and “has contributed to multiple severe and fatal crashes over the years.”
Link agreed and moved to support the four-lane concept, saying that it would save lives. “It’s imperative that we fix this corridor, and this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do that,” Link said.
Nevertheless, Commissioner Ovita Thornton made a counter-proposal to keep North Avenue at five lanes. After a delay, Commissioner John Culpepper seconded her motion, wondering why the vote was even necessary, since the commission had already chosen the five-lane option in 2024. But public opinion and commissioners’ views have changed.
In 2024, public comment right before the vote was overwhelmingly against the four-lane option. Although most who gave their opinion in surveys voiced a preference for a safer North Avenue, the grant became a sensitive political issue with strong feelings on both sides. Thornton herself had called the grant “a deal with the devil,” further inflaming tensions. By contrast, most people who spoke at last week’s meeting were in favor of the four-lane plan, although community advocate Tawana Mattox did call for a “pause” for more public input.
The motion to keep North Avenue at five lanes failed 3-6, with Commissioner Tiffany Taylor joining Thornton and Culpepper in support. Commissioner Stephanie Johnson was absent.
Attention then returned to the four-lane plan. Unlike in 2024, when it had the support of only one commissioner, this plan for a safer North Avenue passed 8-1 with Taylor as the only opposition.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING: The commission selected Envision Athens to manage the
county’s affordable housing trust fund in a split 5-4 vote.
Envision Athens is a nonprofit focusing on community issues like mental health, workforce development and food security. While housing is one of its focus areas, the group does not work directly to provide housing in the community. Housing providers would have a conflict of interest, since they might want to apply for some of the fund’s money for their own organizations, according to LEH Consulting Group, the firm that recommended Envision Athens.
LEH Consulting, which has experience setting up similar housing funds in communities across Georgia, also advised against keeping the fund entirely within the local government because that could violate the state constitution.
LEH Consulting considered three other organizations to administer the fund, which were disqualified for different reasons. For example, the Athens Housing Authority has a conflict of interest, First American Bank’s for-profit mission is not aligned with the fund’s purpose and the Athens Area Community Foundation had “capacity and readiness constraints,” according to LEH Consulting who interviewed the staff. Therefore, only Envision Athens remained as a viable option.
However, there could be other organizations in the community who are ready and able to administer the housing fund. At last week’s meeting, Taylor proposed putting out a formal request for proposals so that the selection of an administrator could be made in a more open and competitive manner.
“We get a pretty bad rap when it comes to transparency,” Taylor said. “This is a way for us to open the door for other organizations that feel that they are also ready. If not, we can come back to awarding it to Envision Athens.”
Thornton and Commissioner Carol Myers also spoke in favor of a more competitive process, but Commissioner Mike Hamby made a counter-motion to award the administrator position directly to Envision Athens. He did so because a request for proposals would delay implementation of the affordable housing fund by about a year, which Hamby argued was valuable time that
shouldn’t be squandered.
“It’s a one- year allocation to [Envision Athens], who will help us get set up and get the ball rolling,” Hamby said. “We don’t have time to waste. It’s a one- time expense in this budget. If it doesn’t work, we’ll get somebody else next year.”
Taylor, Fisher, Myers and Thornton voted against Hamby’s motion, which passed 5-4. As a result, Envision Athens will receive $373,952 for operational costs related to the planning, launch and implementation of the affordable housing fund, with First American Bank and Trust as a fiscal partner. While the fund will need continued contributions from the local government to reach its full potential, the expectation is that it will eventually become self- sustaining by charging fees, collecting interest payments and leveraging private donations. Local housing funds typically are able to leverage $8 for every dollar of public investment, according to ACC’s affordable housing investment strategy.
Envision Athens will need to restructure and phase out its current work in order to take on these new responsibilities. Sally Kimel- Sheppard, the executive director of Envision Athens, told Flagpole that her organization’s current efforts will be continued by its nonprofit partners like the Athens Homeless Coalition. She also said that her organization will move forward on this important project in a spirit of collaboration with the community.
“I look forward to listening to the direction provided by those who live in Athens and those who do work around housing in Athens, as we develop what will work best for Athens. This is a time for us to be innovative on how we decide to use this funding,” Kimel- Sheppard said. [Chris Dowd]
Apartments Proposed Near 40 Watt
Pending approval from the AthensClarke County Historic Preservation Commission, luxury student apartments could be coming to the downtown parking lot behind the 40 Watt Club.
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The HPC met on May 20 to discuss construction impacting Athens’ historic districts. Among those was a six- story apartment building proposed at 290 W. Clayton St., recently sold to Landmark Properties, which also built The Mark and The Standard. The lot is near the former Caledonia Lounge and the former Atomic vintage store, now owned by Sister Louisa’s Church bar. A small building next door to the former Atomic space is “going to be the headquarters for Cafe Racer,” a locally owned fast- food restaurant, said Brett Nave of Studio BNA Architects.
Nave called it an “elegant building” and a strong image for downtown visitors to focus on. He also framed it as being able to take attention off the AT&T building of a similar size on the other side of Pulaski Street, while creating housing density
to apply again. The next HPC meeting is scheduled for Jun. 17 at 5:30 p.m. at 120 W. Dougherty St. [Lily Thomas]
Scott Confirmed as CCSD Superintendent
The Clarke County School Board named Jennifer Scott as superintendent of the school district last Tuesday, June 2. She had served as interim superintendent since July 2025, when Superintendent Robbie Hooker retired.
“Thank you for the trust you have placed in me,” she told the board after the unanimous vote to confirm her as superintendent. “Clarke County is near and dear to me,” Scott said. She was born and reared in Athens, “a great place to teach and to learn.”
Probate Judge Susan Schaffer then installed Scott, who swore to uphold both the Georgia and the federal Constitution. Her annual salary will be $235,000, beginning on July 1.
using quality materials. The building would include limestone, black accents, gas lanterns, scalloped window trims, steel replica windows and a black setback at the top, Nave said, calling it “a decent bookend to the end of Clayton Street.”
Parking would be located on the edges and bottom floor, kind of an “underpass situation,” with upper floors consisting of enclosed living space. The HPC recommended a recess on the top story and reduction of balcony spaces to increase continuity and reduce the visual impact of the building’s scale. Additionally, they recommended vertical emphases on windows, consideration for tint or glaze on windows, a more commercial and less industrial look, and a less modern facade to coalesce with historic buildings. Commission members mostly agreed on wanting to reduce the size of the structure, but Nave said the proposed quantity of bedrooms is needed to go through with the construction at the price point and quality of materials planned. If its design characteristics are altered to meet the HPC’s feedback, the development could be approved at a future meeting. Although buildings of such scale are allowed by right in the commercial-downtown zone, where heights up to 100 feet and densities of 200 bedrooms per acre are legal, the HPC’s role is to ensure new construction and renovations mesh with the character of the West Downtown Historic District and other locally designated historic districts. Both parties ultimately agreed to table the project, with Nave having six months to present an updated version without having
Scott earned three degrees from the University of Georgia: a bachelor’s degree in speech communications, a master’s in early childhood education and a doctorate in educational leadership. Her first job was teaching two years at Colbert Elementary in Madison County. She then joined the faculty at Timothy Road Elementary, becoming assistant principal in 2007. She moved to the Eastside and was principal at Barnett Shoals from 2011 until 2019, when she moved to the district office.
From 2019–2022, she was an executive director of leadership development, supervising the professional development and growth of seven principals of the district’s 14 elementary schools. In August 2022, she became chief of student and family support.
The board voted to name Scott superintendent on a permanent basis last month after a nationwide search, but under state law had to wait two weeks to confirm the appointment. [Rebecca McCarthy]
Saunders Stays as Deputy Manager
Longtime Athens- Clarke County administrator Andrew Saunders will stay in his role as deputy manager after Manager Bob Cowell appointed him to the position permanently.
Saunders had been an interim assistant manager since 2024. Previously he led the Central Services Department—which oversees landscaping, building maintenance, equipment and vehicles, among other roles—and served as interim director of Housing and Community Development. He started his career as a forester for the county before being promoted to environmental coordinator, then head of the Sustainability Office. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UGA and is a certified public manager through the Carl Vinson Institute of Government. [Blake Aued] f
District 5 Runoff
CRAIG TOPPLE VERSUS KIMBERLY BENNETT
By Lily Thomas news@flagpole.com
Nocandidate received 50% of the vote in the race for AthensClarke County Commission District 5’s new commissioner, so a runoff election is underway between Kimberly Bennett and Craig Topple.
Incumbent Dexter Fisher did not seek reelection, as he entered the race for mayor, which also resulted in a runoff between him and former District 5 commissioner Tim Denson. Bennett and Topple earned 35.2% and 30.9% of the vote, respectively, on May 19. The runoff is scheduled for June 16. Early voting is underway and runs through June 12.
Bennett is a nonprofit executive, mentor and community advocate with nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, youth development and public service. She is a PhD student in public administration at Liberty University, a conservative evangelical Christian university based in Virginia. Bennett said her experiences have developed her skills in budgeting, grant management, strategic planning, governance and ethical decisionmaking, as well as the importance of data, research and community involvement.
“Being from Athens gives me a deep understanding of both the strengths and challenges within our community,” Bennett told Flagpole “I see how Athens has grown and changed over the years.
cerns of their district’s residents are, both candidates pointed to safety, traffic, infrastructure, transit, housing and affordability as key issues. Bennett said she will work toward balanced growth, strategic infrastructure investments, communitycentered development and collaborative public safety approaches. Topple said he will focus on investing in transit, biking and sidewalks, plus addressing hard problems with compassion.
Bennett said her first priority, if elected, will be to address affordable housing and housing stability by supporting policies that encourage affordable housing and facilitating stronger collaboration between the government and community partners. Topple’s first priority, if elected, “will be informed by the community’s most urgent need at the time I take office.” He said he will focus on zoning modernization and listening first, while acting with clear purpose, prioritizing the people of District 5.
“I also see families being priced out of the homes they grew up in,” she continued. “I understand these realities because I have lived here, gone to school here, raised my children here, and worked directly alongside people in this community… Athens is more than where I live; it is my home.”
Topple is a board- certified chaplain and active with the Association of Professional Chaplains, the Interfaith Clergy Partnership of Greater Athens, the Presbytery of Northeast Georgia and the Athens YMCA. Topple’s academic background includes degrees in engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology and divinity at Columbia Theological Seminary. He is also bilingual in English and Spanish, having lived in Latin America.
“I’ve pastored congregations for decades, casting vision, empowering people and balancing budgets. I operate a small business with my father,” Topple told Flagpole. “… I work as a chaplain at St. Mary’s. I listen, seek to understand, then deliver, every day. That’s what I’ll do as commissioner.”
Topple said that Athens set itself apart with its music, culture and community. Having raised kids here, he said, “The challenge is to preserve what we love and improve what we can, pragmatically.”
When asked what the biggest con-
On policies to improve affordable housing and address homelessness, Bennett focused on partnerships with nonprofits, developers and community organizations. She also supports mixed-income housing, zoning reform, transitional housing, rental assistance and youth intervention programs, pointing towards education and job training as key to economic mobility. Her approach includes “sustainable, community-driven solutions that address both urgent needs and the root causes of housing instability.”
Topple focused on zoning, calling it the best way to manage Athens’ growth on our own terms. He said current codes have made affordable housing types illegal and increased costs, so he proposes modernizing these codes to provide missing middle housing, create accessory dwelling units, and remove unnecessary parking minimums. Topple also said he would be a champion for direct services to stop homelessness, stating, “We say who we love by how we share what we have.”
When asked how they will maintain civility and bipartisanship while serving the public, both candidates prioritized communication, collaboration and compromise.
Bennett said she will prioritize building relationships across diverse groups to make residents feel heard, valued and included. She will focus on finding common ground and keeping conversations centered around solutions rather than division. Topple said his chaplain training has shaped how he engages, and taught him to genuinely consider other perspectives and create solutions that work for everyone. “This work is not about me,” he said. “It’s about what we can do together.” f
Jennifer Scott was sworn in June 2 as superintendent of the Clarke County School District.
Kimberly Bennett
Craig Topple
District 9 Runoff
SMITH
By Lily Thomas news@flagpole.com
Nocandidate received 50% of the vote in the race for Athens- Clarke County District 9 commissioner, so a runoff election is underway between incumbent Ovita Thornton and challenger Tracy Smith. Thornton and Smith earned 48.7% and 42% of the vote, respectively. Flagpole interviewed both candidates again to help Athenians in District 9 (the northeastern part of the county) cast their vote on Jun. 16, or during early voting June 10–12.
Thornton holds a social work degree from Bethune- Cookman University. She has worked in community organizing and lobbying on local and national levels, with focuses on health care, homelessness, voting rights and housing. She earned a certificate for city and county officials from the Association County Commissioners of Georgia. She previously served on the ACC Board of Education, and is a current board member for the Economic Justice Coalition and executive director for Georgia Clients Council.
“The accomplishments and growth in District 9 is because of my age and experience,” Thornton said, adding she has always advocated for the most vulnerable. Serving on the commission has allowed her to share stories many decision-makers do not usually get to hear and make a positive difference in the community, she said.
her insight into development, housing concerns and economic factors impacting local growth. Paired with her professional experience in media and community engagement, Smith said she is prepared to “listen carefully, make informed decisions and effectively serve the residents of Athens- Clarke
When asked what are the biggest concerns of her district’s residents, Thornton cited speed humps, traffic safety, infrastructure and public safety. She said that after 35 years since city- county unification, District 9 has seen “long overdue improvements.” Bus transit expansion, street paving and development grants are improvements currently in the works.
Thornton said changing the old water pipes in Pinewood Mobile Home Park and installing fire hydrants are other key issues. She also emphasized the importance of the local government educating homeowners on septic tanks, and providing preventative services to address the environmental and financial problems of tank overflow.
tive for Community Housing and Athens Investment Housing Strategy. She focused on zoning and development opportunities being potential solutions.
Smith’s first priority, if elected, is improving communication and responsiveness between local government and residents, while focusing on infrastructure and neighborhood concerns. “I believe people want leadership that listens, follows through and keeps the community informed,” she said.
To address affordable housing, Smith supported expanding budget- friendly housing opportunities while protecting existing neighborhoods. She also encourages responsible developments, improving community partnerships to address homelessness, bolstering mental health and workforce resources, and increasing pathways to housing for families, seniors and veterans.
County. I have worked with residents from many different backgrounds and gained firsthand knowledge of the issues affecting District 9.”
Smith studied retail marketing at Athens Tech, which strengthened her skills in public communication, planning and working with people from diverse experiences. She attended the ACCGov 101 Academy, a crash course on the ACC government, and served on the North Athens user group for TSPLOST 2023. She said her work in residential and commercial appraisal has given
She is a native Athenian and stated, “Although I have lived in other cities, Athens has always been my home. Living in other communities gave me a greater appreciation for my hometown… Those experiences have strengthened my understanding of what works well in other areas, and how some of those lessons can be applied to help improve Athens- Clarke County.”
Smith said that infrastructure, housing affordability, public safety, neighborhood upkeep, youth opportunities and government communications are common issues. She plans to address these concerns through “stronger community engagement, transparent leadership, better infrastructure planning, and advocating for resources that directly benefit District 9 families and neighborhoods.”
Thornton’s first priority, if elected, is policy addressing affordable housing based on a study conducted by the Georgia Initia-
On the topic of maintaining civility and bipartisanship, both candidates agreed that listening to and respecting others is crucial.
Thornton has been one of the most outspoken commissioners, at times berating staff and singling out particular commissioners. Mayor Kelly Girtz instituted a “civility pledge” after numerous attacks by some commissioners on their colleagues and violations of the commission’s rules of order.
“In the past, respect was rare among some of the commissioners, me included… The atmosphere is much better, not because of the civility code, but [because] my current colleagues and I have taken ownership of our behavior,” Thornton told Flagpole She said that she welcomes differences of opinion and—despite having sometimes left meetings prior to the public comment period at the end—prioritizes staying after commission meetings to listen to people’s concerns.
“Even when people disagree, it is important to listen, communicate professionally, and focus on solutions rather than division,” Smith said. She said that she will work with anyone who is committed to improving and serving the community. f
Ovita Thornton
Tracy Smith
threats & promises
Mac McComb Releases Album
By Gordon Lamb
BIG AND BRIGHT: A special performance by Blue Stars will happen at the Winterville Marigold Auditorium on Saturday, Aug. 1. The band—Claire Campbell, Andrea DeMarcus, Joe Rowe and Dan Nettles—may be better known by their other outlets, like Hope For Agoldensummer, Cicada Rhythm, The Glands and Kenosha Kid, among many others. But each are songwriters in their own right, and bring different styles to the table. The group is joined this night by country band The Howdies, which also features a couple of names you should know in the form of Austin Darnell and Shoni Rancher. The whole evening is presented by the new blend from Jittery Joe’s master roaster, Charlie Mustard Coffee. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. With this long of a runway, though, I’ve got an itchy feeling they’ll get snapped up this summer. So if you want in, head to tinyurl.com/mr3krx42.
MODERN DANCES: The never-resting Marcel Sletten has done it again with his newest solo release. The self-titled project is called Miracle House, and the new EP runs four tracks long. In the album notes he mentions inspiration from ’70s dub and DJ Screw, both of which are apparent on the opening track, “Sharp Huron Wind Dub.” Its beat is like a drummer skilled in motorik playing wet sandbags, and the looped guitar is absolutely hypnotic. “Ciel” is not unlike a lot of Sletten’s more meditative work, and the loops here aren’t just repeating, they’re undulating. There’s a physicality to it that’s inescapable and the next track, “Desire,” is of similar temperament, but eventually starts to drift off around the four-minute mark. It wraps up with the nearly spiritual “Straight Talk Dub” which hints strongly at a sense of majesty or, at least, some grandeur. I found it to deliver a shot of melancholy-laden hopefulness that can’t really be described, but I know it when I hear it. Find it at primordial void.bandcamp.com.
UNSOLVED MYSTERIES: You know how some artists are so expansive they seem to require a large canvas? That’s how the new album, If Not For Them Then Not For Us, by Mac McComb feels. Largely recorded at home between 2023–2026, these 13 songs are indeed from multiple genres, but they all seem to intersect somewhere at the five-points of folk, indie pop, early 2000s college radio and smoothly digestible psych. There are some surprises here that come for the close listeners, such as the brief guitar rock section in the otherwise breezy opening song “Animal.” “Magpies & Roses” kind of sneaks up on the listener with an intensity that isn’t immediately obvious between its Animal Collective- style vocals. The fourmovement “Tiny Blue Ball” is itself alone worth the dive into this album. If this had been released by an Elephant 6 band 30 years ago, indie rockers would consider it a national anthem. So, yeah, there’s a lot going on here, but most of it is immediately recognizable if not necessarily referential. Find it at macmccomb.bandcamp.com.
on the joy of exploring sound and creating music. Our meetings are free, all ages events, and anyone of any knowledge level is welcome, whether you’re brand new to synths or a seasoned synth head.” You’re welcome to bring your favorite synth or just check out what other folks bring. Also, take your headphones! While it’s not explicitly mentioned, in the case of synths older than a few years, you’d do well to take wired headphones with a couple of different adapters, most likely one-eight inch (3.5 millimeters) and one- fourth inch. The idea is to make this thing a monthly event, so head over if this is your bag.
SAFE AT HOME: I told y’all last week about Tommy Jordan’s new album Georgia Moon, but didn’t mention the new album by Jeff Rymes, The Highway Call. There are two reasons for this. One, Rhymes used to live in Athens but doesn’t anymore, and two, I didn’t know it existed. There’s not enough room here to go into it, but it’s a good ’un. The pair are doing a double album-release show at Athentic Brewing Co. on Friday, June 12 from 6–8 p.m. Jordan will appear as part of his long-running collaboration with
William Tonks, MrJordanMrTonks. To catch up on things before you head over, please see jeffrymes.bandcamp.com and tommyjordan1.bandcamp.com.
ELECTRIC DREAMS: The inaugural meet-up of the Athens Synth Club happens at Hendershot’s on Sunday, June 14 from 12–4 p.m. Who are the members of this club? Well, punter, you if you want to be. It’s open to anyone and everyone. It’s free to attend and participate. According to an email from the organizers, “The Synth Club exists to connect musicians and enthusiasts locally, fostering an inclusive, affirming, and encouraging community centered
ALL-AMERICAN BOY: Athens songwriter, performer and friend Brian Burke died Saturday, May 30 after a long illness. Burke was a founding member of The Normaltown Flyers, which, in no uncertain terms and with no hyperbole, were kind of a link between the pre-new wave days in Athens and the post- college radio revolution. While Burke and crew performed at multiple venues across town over the years, they are best known for being, essentially, a house band at Allen’s Hamburgers, where they were occasionally joined by fans and fellow musicians like Peter Buck. In an online tribute, engineer and producer John Keane said, “Brian Burke was a good friend and a shining example of how to live your life with humor, generosity and integrity, as well as how to treat others.” And if that’s not about as well as one could be remembered, then I don’t know what is. A much more complete tribute is to be published in these pages in the coming weeks. He is survived by his wife Fran and was 77 years old. f
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The Original Splitz Band
FIRING UP THE PARTY AT HOT CORNER FESTIVAL
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
For decades The Original Splitz Band has been adding atmosphere and getting people up off their feet at festivals, special events, venue residencies, parties and more. The group is selfdescribed as “a mixed drink of the classic Motown sound, part 1970s funk and disco flavor, a dash of the old- school and contemporary R&B, and a guaranteed good time.”
The “guaranteed good time” part of the description should come double underlined. Veteran of the band, lead guitarist and vocalist Stanley Stroud says that his vision for The Original Splitz Band has always simply been, “I like to have fun, just everyone have a good time.” Stroud was a member of the Common People Band before it divided into two groups in the late ’90s to meet its growing demand for more booking opportunities. That’s where the idea of renaming the second half of the group the “Splitz Band” came from, says Stroud.
Stroud grew up singing gospel music, which he still does outside of the band, and had never performed at a show until he joined Common People Band at 20 years old. He was the youngest member at that time, and now is one of the oldest members of The Original Splitz Band after a turnover and refreshing of members over the years. Unfortunately, early members have died or had health issues that made them step away, and other members have moved or had life changes.
because I love music, right? I love what I’m doing. It ain’t that it’s good money, but it ain’t all about the money. It makes yourself feel good.”
One of the key elements that makes The Original Splitz Band a party chameleon is that the members bring a lot of different influences together for the performance. Vocalist Stan says that he’s been singing gospel music since he was about 4 years old, and grew up with the band being a part of family life until he officially joined when he was 27 years old. Singer and keyboard
“We really look forward to it every year. We have a lot of support here in Athens, and it’s always good to look out at so many different fans and supporters that are out there,” says Dierdra.
For the younger Stan, Hot Corner is a really special generational event. He says as a young boy he first started singing at the festival during the morning gospel performances, and now he has children that he takes to see the performances every year. The sense of community sets this event apart, and the programming is motivational.
“We’re starting them off young. Floyd [Weaver], he’s been hanging around me since he was about 6, 7 years old. He wanted to learn to play guitar, you know; they would pick him up, bring him to practice. So he played the guitar, the drums, the bass and he was around us all the time. Then when he got old enough, he got in the band,” says Stroud. “That’s how we do stuff. You got to have someone young to keep it moving. Keep some young folks around.”
Stanley is not the only Stroud in the band, and he says that his family and a lot of the people they know have always been around music. His sons Stan Stroud and Keio Stroud, nephew Jalen Stroud and sister Dierdra Stroud have all played a part in The Original Splitz Band. But the entire group has a tight-knit relationship that has learned to be flexible out of necessity, especially considering the band can feature anywhere from nine to 11 musicians for one gig.
“I had a stroke last May, and they did a show without me. I had no doubt they could do it,” says Stanley.
But his son, Stan, points out, “Yeah, he was trying to get out of the hospital to make that show.”
Recalling another illness, Stan says, “I had surgery, and we had a show, and I was like, ‘Hey, I gotta go to the house, I gotta go.’ And I did. I played. I didn’t feel no pain, nothing. They kept saying, ‘You gonna be in pain? You just had surgery.’ I got to do it
player Dierdra says that she and Stanley grew up singing in the church choir, and their parents were musicians, too. After following The Original Splitz Band for a long time, the band found itself in need of a new member once again, so Dierdra stepped in around 2013 and never left. Bass player Kenneth Brawner, who has been a member for nearly 20 years, started playing with Stanley in the Common People Band. Brawner says he has enjoyed the opportunities they’ve had to travel and perform for a lot of people in different environments over the years. Rhythm and lead guitarist Weaver says that his father was a DJ, his mother played a lot of gospel and R&B music, and he’s found influences in blues, jazz and country. Keyboardist Macon Gwinn says that he’s played in jazz groups, got into recording and taught choir at multiple churches. Backup drummer Fernando del Aguila comes from a classic rock and roll background, but he knew Brawner from his time playing in the Common People Band and Stanley’s son Keio. So joining The Original Splitz Band a year ago was a full- circle moment for these relationships.
Although the band stays busy year-round with events, the members always make sure to keep the second weekend of June open for the annual Hot Corner Festival. Stanley says that The Original Splitz Band has played the festival since it started, and he personally helps set up the drums and sound on stage in the morning.
“Whenever Hot Corner comes up, we say let’s make it happen,” says Stanley. “We’re looking to bring it, you know.”
“I grew up on stage, so I try to make sure my kids see the same thing and be inspired by different people, because that’s how I made myself be inspired by seeing other folks doing things. Speech, public speaking, anything like that,” says Stan.
The annual Hot Corner opening gospel program will take place Friday evening from 6:30–8 p.m. at First AME Church on Hull Street. There will be performances by Restoration Choir, Gospel Aires, Morton Chapel Male Choir, and UUFA Chalice Choir with the Palms of Fire Drummers. The community can also join in devotion, offerings, a memorial and dancing during the event.
The all-day block party takes place on Saturday, June 13 from 11 a.m.–10 p.m. The streets at the cross- section of Washington and Hull will be lined with information booths from local organizations, an assortment of small business vendors, beverage concessions and soul food. There will also be a car and bike show at the perimeter of the festival.
The opening reception begins at 11 a.m. on the main stage with a flag presentation, song and greetings from the Hot Corner Association and community leaders. The entertainment from 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. is kicked off with a spiritual devotion and leans heavily toward a gospel lineup. Youth vendors and contestants for Miss Juneteenth and Miss Georgia Teen will be recognized before more music and poetry carry the afternoon. There is a break in entertainment at 4:30 p.m. for an awards presentation.
Things pick back up from 4:30–10 p.m. with a variety of musicians from hip-hop and R&B artists to party ensembles and more. The Original Splitz Band will close the festival out at 9 p.m. with a final burst of energy to keep everyone dancing in the streets until 10 p.m. The schedule of events can be found online at flagpole.com. f
WHAT: Hot Corner Festival WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 11 a m –10 p m WHERE: Downtown Athens HOW MUCH: FREE!
ELENA DEL AGUILA
(l-r) Macon Gwinn, Stanley Stroud, Fernando del Aguila, Dierdra Stroud and Kenneth Brawner
MUSIC | THU, JUNE 11
Neptune
Flicker Theatre & Bar • 8 p.m. • $12
Experimental post-punk/industrial band Neptune formed in Boston, MA in the 1990s, beginning as a sculpture project by Jason Sanford, who made the band’s guitars and drums from reclaimed scrap metal and found objects. Over time, Neptune’s sound adapted to include oscillators and other electronics. The band has spent some time on hiatus over the course of its decadeslong run, but remerged on June 3 with a new album called Play Some Music, which it is currently touring across the U.S. through the end of the month. Reviewer Jared Dix writes for The Quietus that the record “finds Neptune re-energised, refining their own peculiar sound world. Unique and unpre-
as artists like Dwight Yoakam and Lucinda Williams. Rymes will be playing songs from his own new record, The Highway Call, making the show a double CD release event. [MB]
Local musician Iain Cooke has built a reputation for being among the city’s busiest musical collaborators, but his newest project, The Unbelieving Dog, shifts the focus to his own inner world. The songs written for The Unbelieving Dog reflect on grief, loss and love while taking inspiration from the greats of power pop and aughties alt- country such as Big Star, The dBs and
dictable. This sublime, junk- yard, noise-rock transmission.” For its Athens show, Neptune will be joined by angular indie rockers Real Wow, hardcore band Bursters and Atlanta/Athens post-punk band Go Public, which also has a new record out July 24. [Mary Beth Bryan]
MUSIC | FRI, JUNE 12
Tommy Jordan, Jeff Rymes
Athentic Brewing Co. • 6 p.m. • FREE!
Georgia Moon, the first solo album from Tommy Jordan of local duo MrJordanMrTonks, is a collection of songs written over the past couple of years using lyrics by collaborator Drew Bowen. Bowen would send words to Jordan, which he would then structure into songs in what Jordan calls “a truly magical process where the music almost wrote itself.” What began as demo recordings eventually turned into full, finished recordings made with his bandmates William Tonks, Mark Cooper Smith and Greg Veale. Jordan continues, “We never really started out to make an album, but we are surely pleased with the results.” Joining Jordan for his release show is folk/country musician Jeff Rymes. Though Rymes is currently based in Portland, OR, he lived in Athens for several years, and also has a history moving in the same California circles
Wilco. Cooke is celebrating the release of his newest single, “Used To Be,” with a show featuring Your Ex’s Pets and Dipper Grande, with both of which he is also a collaborator. Cooke says the song “takes a long look into the mirror that is the past and asks ‘Who is that looking back at me?’” [MB]
Alt-rock quartet Greywater may be based in Atlanta, but Athens is a very important city for the band. Greywater is a veteran of several of the city’s festivals and venues, and one of its principal goals has long been to headline the 40 Watt Club. It will now bring its singles and the songs of its debut EP, Jamerson Road Demos, to the iconic venue. The EP is an experimental release that combines a variety of rock subgenres, from grunge to shoegaze to nu-metal. Most recently, the band released “Zombie,” a single from its upcoming debut album, which the band’s press bio says is “signaling a more definitive direction and beginning the process of cementing their sound and their place in Georgia’s music scene.” Joining Greywater for the show are fellow Atlanta alt-rockers Futon and 7th Try. [MB] f
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.”
Wednesday 10
585 Barber St.
Summer Sunset Music Series. 7–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.treehousekidandcraft.com
LIBBALOOPS Electronic musician and looping artist who loves to be silly and get “loopy doopy.” Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets.
Amici at The Falls
6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat thefalls
CAM NORTON Covers and originals in the vein of rock, folk, bluegrass and country.
Athentic Brewing Co.
7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY
Second and fourth Wednesdays. 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.
PILGRIM Local hard-hitting, riffheavy rock band led by songwriter Paul McHugh. ALL GODS Local noise band with a post-punk backbone.
SILVER TRIPLETS OF RIO
HONDO Psychedelic Western outfit conceived by William Slater, songwriter and founding member of art-psych heavyweights Grails and current member of Black Mountain. Flicker Theatre & Bar
8 p.m. $12. www.flickertheatreandbar. com
NEPTUNE Mind-blowing, clangy, no-wave post-punk/rock from Boston, MA.
GO PUBLIC Atlanta/Athens shimmering and moving post-punk/rock.
REAL WOW Heavy, angular and expansive indie rock from Athens.
BURSTERS Insane, irreverent and spastic Athens hardcore.
Georgia Theatre
7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $32.96–48.31. www.georgiatheatre. com
THE ULTIMATE DOORS A tribute to Jim Morrison and The Doors.
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.
BRUNCH WITH ROSIE Threepiece indie rock band from Auburn. The World Famous 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ theworldfamousathens
FLOYD J. WEAVER Playing soul, funk and R&B.
Friday 12
40 Watt Club
8 p.m. $10. www.40watt.com
MCKENDRICK BEARDEN Athensbased alternative-rock artist whose music depicts the negatives and positives we all experience in life.
TELEPHONE POLE Indie-rock band from Athens.
EVEY MAY Athens-based indie alternative songwriter with postpunk and shoegaze influences.
ALEX JETT Local indie rock singersongwriter delivering a wide-range of emotionally charged vocals. Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat thefalls
CAM NORTON Covers and originals in the vein of rock, folk, bluegrass and country.
TOMMY JORDAN Local musician from the duo MrJordanMrTonks celebrates the release of his first solo album, Georgia Moon
JEFF RYMES Former Athenian and currently Portland, OR-based musician whose work sets country music in the wider context of standards and timeless pop music.
Ciné
8 p.m. $10. www.athenscine.com
OHMU Abstract ambient solo project of Winston Parker, creating ruptured beds of high volume sound draped in fog and frenetic sound reactive lighting.
MARCEL SLETTEN California-born and Athens-based electronic music producer, composer and artist whose sound varies from peaceful to intense.
IXIAN Experimental metal/industrial/noise music.
IHLYATT Audiovisual artist Josh Anderssen creates atmospheric and textural work based around ambient music and VHS technology.
BRANDON SEARS BAND Playing Southern rock jams. Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. www.deadbeatathens.com
JOE ADRAGNA Songwriter and multi-instrumentalist behind the acclaimed power-pop project The Junior League.
LANCE PORTER A seasoned songwriter and versatile guitarist now based in Athens known for his work in Baton Rouge, LA garage rock band The Rakers. Flicker Theatre & Bar Shadebeast Presents. 8:30 p.m. $12. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
DEAD VIBES ENSEMBLE Sludge metal duo fueled by whiskey and loud amplifiers.
GUHTS New York post-metal.
ROSIE AND THE RATDOGS Local riff-laden alternative rock trio.
Front Porch Bookstore
6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook
KATE MORRISSEY BAND Literate, sincere local group whose live shows come punctuated with an offbeat sense of humor. Hendershot’s
THE UNBELIEVING DOG Power pop alt-country songs from Iain Cooke and friends. Single release show!
YOUR EX’S PETS Haunting, groovy, soft-loud songs with rich vocal harmonies and layered arrangements.
DIPPER GRANDE Alt-cosmic music from Athens.
Hot Corner
11 a.m.–10 p.m. www.hotcorner athens.weebly.com
HOT CORNER FESTIVAL In addition to vendors, speakers and dancers, the festival presents live music by John Dunn Band, Tonya Haygood, Ishues, Gnarlie Uptown, Beto Cacao, The Original Splitz Band and more.
TUESDAY TUNES AT DAILY Rotating local musicians play stripped down sets. Georgia Theatre Rooftop 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com
FAST PREACHER The brain workings of Orlando, FL-based musician Daniel Hanson.
KATARA Experimental, virtuosic harp playing over steady, deep grooves carried by lush harmony. Hendershot’s 7:30 p.m. & 8:45 p.m. FREE! www. hendershotsathens.com
KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.” Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga HAYRIDE Long-running local three-piece rock band led by birthday boy Kevin Sweeney. State Botanical Garden of Georgia Sunflower Concert Series. 7 p.m. $12 (ages 5–16), $24. botgarden. uga.edu THE BROKEN STRING BAND Americana band blending Western folk with indie rock. The World Famous H.A.R.D.T.A.C.K. Presents. 9 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/theworld famousathens
GRIPE Houston, TX punk quartet. CERVIX Birmingham, AL rock and roll unit.
RUBBER UDDER Self-described weirdo experimental acid punk/ noise-grunge thing from Athens. REGULATOR Music for mounting up. PETER AND THE SKEETERS Local lo-fi egg punk group.
Wednesday 17
585 Barber St. Summer Sunset Music Series. 7–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.treehousekidand craft.com
WOMEN IN STEM Indie rock girl trio with a power complex and lots of love.
Amici at The Falls
6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat thefalls
MAKENNA BRYAN Playing originals and covers. Flicker Theatre & Bar
9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com
DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring pop, rock, indie and more. 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.
Down the Line
6/19 The Original Splitz Band (Athentic Brewing Co.) f
event calendar
Tuesday 9
CLASSES: Internet 101: Search Engines (ACC Library) Learn how to utilize various search tools and navigate the internet. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athens library.org
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: Love Island Watch Party (Athentic Brewing Co.) Chaotic Good Podcast hosts a watch party with a pre-show podcast, games and special drinks. 8 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Rock ’n Roll Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host The Music Man. Second Tuesdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: 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/baddog athens
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: Bingo & Sip (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Play BINGO with a chance to win prizes. Every other Tuesday, 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenskava.com
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: Toddler Tuesday: Water, Water Everywhere (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy art and storytime in the galleries, then complete an art activity. Ages 18 months to 3 years. RSVP by email. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga. edu
MEETINGS: Athens Fibercraft Guild (Lyndon House Arts Center) Bring a dish for the Flamingo Beach themed annual luncheon and current creations for a show and tell. 12–2 p.m. FREE! www.athensfiber. org
MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly group, hear memoirs from others and learn tips on how to write your own. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 10
ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: French Class (Oconee County Library) Join instructor Emma Auer to learn the basics of the French language. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
CLASSES: How to Pack a Backpack Workshop (REI) Bring your bag and gear to learn the best way to properly fit, pack and carry a hiking pack. 6 p.m. $20 (members), $50 (non-members). www. rei.com
art around town
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. Special Third Thursday Hours on June 18, 6–8 p.m. 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.
DONDEROS’ KITCHEN (590 N. Milledge Ave.) Whimsical artworks by Susan Pelham will be on display through August.
GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) 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, 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 14. • asinnajaq’s “Three Thousand” combines archival videos from the National Film Board of Canada with animations, soundscapes and contemporary video footage. Through June 28. • “Seeing the News in Harper’s Weekly, 1860–80” features Civil War-era and Reconstruction-era illustrations by Thomas Nast and Winslow Homer,
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
FILM: Pachinko Pop (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1978 musical fantasy film Pink Lady’s Motion Picture. 7 p.m. FREE! www. flickertheatreandbar.com
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/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: Fiddlin’ Dan (Oconee County Library) Enjoy stories and live music inspired by the Appalachian Mountains. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee
MEETINGS: C3 to End Homelessness (Foxglove Plantbar) A roundtable discussion regarding housing and homelessness to educate, identify issues and plan steps to solutions. Second Wednesdays, 5–6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenshc. org/coc
MEETINGS: Georgia Native Plant Society Meeting (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Join Ecological Resources Coordinator Stephanie Green for a lecture on invasive plants followed by a native seed swap. 6 p.m. FREE! gnps.org/ athens-east-piedmont-chapter
Thursday 11
CLASSES: Keeping Goats 101 (Clarke County Extension Office) A beginner class to teach potential goat owners how to properly care for their new additions. 6 p.m. FREE! extension.uga.edu
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Flying Squid Comedy) Bring a loose funny bone to some home-grown townie improv. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (short-form), 8 p.m. (long-form). $5. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
FILM: Asteroid City (Georgia Museum of Art) Screening of the Wes Anderson film. 7 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
GAMES: Space Board Games (Oconee County Library) A day of family with a variety of spacethemed board game options hosted by Automatic for the Meeple. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/oconee
GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Adult TTRPG (Bogart Library) All skill levels can join for Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role playing games. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
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
curated by students in UGA’s Hands-on Public History course. Through July 12. • 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.
FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Works by Jeremy Long celebrate his 30 year anniversary in this exhibition. Through June. 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. • “Speaking in Tongues” features multi-media works by local and regional artists inspired by language and text across mediums and eras. Opening reception June 18, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Poetry/spoken word event Aug. 27, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Through Aug. 29. • A Pet Portrait Exhibition with works submitted by the public will be on display June 18–Aug. 29. Opening Reception June 18, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • “Excursions in Ukraine” features photographs by Stephen Humphreys documenting life in the war-torn country over the past four years. June 18–Aug. 29. Opening reception June 18, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • “Son of a Griff” features paintings by self-taught Black and Indigenous American artist Rial Rye that explore race and identity through saturated color and found objects. June 18–Aug. 29. Opening reception June 18, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • “BEE CITY OF NOW” is a 24-foot model community for bees by Swannatopia and Experimental Art Club, installed on the Arts Center’s second-floor outdoor patio. Opening reception June 18, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Through May 1, 2027. MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 South Main Street, Madison) In celebration of the center’s 50th anniversary, the exhibition “ex-
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 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: She Loves Me (Town & Gown Players) Musical production about a classic romantic comedy of secret pen pals and unexpected love. June 11–13, 8 p.m. June 14, 2 p.m. $12–20. www.townandgown players.org
Friday 12
COMEDY: On the Spot! (Flying Squid Comedy) Audience members share stories from their lives that Flying Squid improvisers use as inspiration for scenes. 8 p.m. $10. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
EVENTS: Candidate Meet and Greet (Morton Theatre) Learn more about the Democratic Candidate for Congress in Georgia’s 10 District Pamela DeLancy. 4–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.votepamdelancy.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
OUTDOORS: Twig Boat Race (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn how to craft a twig boat and then race them against competitors. 1 p.m. $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill Bridge
OUTDOORS: Stream Sweep (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join park staff to survey Big Cloud’s Creek creek using a seine net. 3
THEATER: She Loves Me (Town & Gown Players) Musical production about a classic romantic comedy of secret pen pals and unexpected love. June 11–13, 8 p.m. June 14, 2 p.m. $12–20. www.townandgown players.org
Saturday 13
CLASSES: Traditional Wax Resist Dyeing (OCAF) Textile artist Greg Krakow will demonstrate how to make your own waxed-dyed batik fabrics. Registration required. 1 p.m. $145 (members), $170 (nonmembers). www.ocaf.com
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: Marigold Farmers Market (Pittard Park) Vendors offer organic produce, prepared foods, agricultural products and artisanal goods with live music, kids activities and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. www.marigoldcollectivewinterville. com
EVENTS: Hot Corner Festival (Hot Corner) The annual festival celebrates 26 years and features vendors, an award ceremony, a car and bike show, food, speakers and live entertainment. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. FREE! www.hotcornerathens. weebly.com
EVENTS: Really, Really Free Market (Reese and Pope Park) Just like a yard sale, but everything is free. Bring what you can, take what you
perience and intersection” features works by John Cleaveland and the late Richard Olsen. Through October.
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-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. Through June.
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.
UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “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.) The Athens Fibercraft Guild’s exhibition “Celebrating Fiber” is on view in the Claire and Robert Clements Gallery. Through June.
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.
need. Second Saturday of every month. 12–1:30 p.m. reallyreally freemarketathens@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/RRFMAthens
EVENTS: Pride Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) An annual event celebrating Pride month with a variety of local vendors. 1–6 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com
EVENTS: Seed Sorting (ACC Library) Help library staff sort seed packets for the seed library. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
FILM: The Time Traveler’s Wife (Ciné) Screening of the film with a conversation about “Genetics, Fate and the Physics of Love” with experts in science. 2 p.m. $9. www. athenscine.com
KIDSTUFF: Chess Club (Oconee County Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Terrific T-Rex Tomes: Jurassic Park (Bogart Library) Join the dino-themed summer book club featuring discussion groups, trivia, refreshments and more. Ages 12 & up. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
OUTDOORS: KACCB Litter League Cleanup (Dudley Park) Volunteers will meet to pick up trash along the Greenway starting at Dudley Park. 9 a.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/kaccb
OUTDOORS: Creek Critters (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Experience hands-on stream ecology while hiking along Beaver Creek. 11:30 a.m. $5/person, $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Survival Kit Basics
(Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join a parker ranger led program and create your own outdoor kit. Registration required. 1:30 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: She Loves Me (Town & Gown Players) Musical production about a classic romantic comedy of secret pen pals and unexpected love. June 11–13, 8 p.m. June 14, 2 p.m. $12–20. www.townandgown players.org
Sunday 14
ART: Paint & Sip (Boutier Winery & Inn) Robin Moore leads a guided painting session. 2 p.m. $40. www. boutierwinery.com
CLASSES: Sewing Class (Community) Bring your machine and materials to work on your projects in a supportive and collaborative environment. Ages 18 & up. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. $100. www.shop communityathens.com
CLASSES: Unscripted Selves (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Explore expression, connection and presence through guided exercises, reflection and group interaction. 2 p.m. $20–40 (suggested donation). www.revolutiontherapyandyoga.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
EVENTS: Miss Juneteenth Pageant 2026 (Morton Theatre) The third annual pageant with the goal to empower young girls with confidence, positive self-esteem and
FILM: A Goofy Movie! (ACC Library) Screening of the classic movie with complimentary popcorn. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
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
KIDSTUFF: Kids Club Dog Training (Pet Supplies Plus) Learn how to foster better relationships with dogs through games, activities and play with stuffed dogs. Registration required. 2 p.m. FREE! Find Pet Supplies Plus Athens on Eventbrite MEETINGS: Athens Synth Club (Hendershot’s) Synth musicians and enthusiasts of all knowledge
about a classic romantic comedy of secret pen pals and unexpected love. June 11–13, 8 p.m. June 14, 2 p.m. $12–20. www.townandgown players.org
Monday 15
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
FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) A submarine enthusiast enlists the help of a sexy scientist to stop a shark from killing a resort full of Bulgarians in Shark Attack 3:
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: Cows at the Library (ACC Library) Join the Georgia Mobile Dairy Classroom to meet real cows and learn about the processing of milk. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
KIDSTUFF: Perfect Polymers (Bogart Library) Join Dr. Maurice Snook for a lesson on polymers. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
levels are invited to make friends, explore new sounds and share their favorite synths. 12–4 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/athens_synth_club
OUTDOORS: Fungi Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about local fungi on a guided walk. 1 p.m. $5/person, $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge
OUTDOORS: Tails on Trails (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Bring your pup for a hike around the loop trail. 3 p.m. $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 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: She Loves Me (Town & Gown Players) Musical production
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,
COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com
EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy craft cocktails and a taco pop-up from Don Carne with themed weeks, live music and dancing. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.livewireathens.com
FILM: Love Island Watch Party (Athentic Brewing Co.) Chaotic Good Podcast hosts a watch party with a pre-show podcast, games and special drinks. 8 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.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: Gator Talk (Oconee County Library) Retired gator wrangler Rick Cleveland will share artifacts, stories, photos and more. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
MEETINGS: Corporation Annual Meeting (Morton Theatre) There will be volunteer award presentations, board and staff reports, and more. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www. mortontheatre.com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 17
Rick Cleveland will share artifacts, stories, photos and more. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart
LECTURES & LIT: Third Monday Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
Tuesday 16
CLASSES: Internet 101: Privacy and Security (ACC Library) Learn how to protect your data, recognize security risks and get tips on how to manage your personal information. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
COMEDY: Take This! Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) The troupe will perform their own improv skits along with a surprise musical guest. 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1991 action drama film Maximum Breakout. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Magic The Gathering and Pokemon Meet-Up (Athentic Brewing Co.) Drop in to spend an evening playing games or matches. Third Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Love.Craft Bingo Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) A bingo event benefiting the nonprofit organization Love.Craft Athens. Third Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m. $3–5. www.lovecraftathens.org
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: Paleo Palooza (Oconee County Library) Learn about the Paleolithic Era with puppetry, magic, comedy and more. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee
Down the Line
6/18 Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park)
6/18 Read to Rover (Oconee County Library)
6/18 Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls)
6/18 Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library)
6/18 KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library)
6/18 Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.)
6/18 Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Flying Squid Comedy)
6/18 Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Butt Hutt)
ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org
CLASSES: Beginner’s Camping Workshop (REI) This hands-on introduction to tent camping includes setting up tents, sleeping bag saftey and other practical advice. 6 p.m. $15 (members), $45 (non-members). www.rei.com
COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. Hosted by Noell Appling. Third Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
6/18 Athens’ Hardest Trivia Night (Nighthawks Lounge)
6/19 Friday Night Initiative (Tyche’s Games)
6/19 Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery)
6/20 The Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park)
6/20 Marigold Farmers Market (Pittard Park)
6/20 Comer Community Market (The Perch)
6/20 Abnormal Bazaar (Indie South)
6/20 Painting With Pops (K.A. Artist Shop)
6/20 Arrival (Ciné)
6/20 Dig Up Your Roots (Bogart Library)
6/20 Improv Comedy (ACC Library)
6/20 Miss Black Northeast Georgia Teen Pageant (Morton Theatre)
6/21 Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park)
6/21 SIM Race Sunday (ACC Library)
6/21 Dad’s Day BBQ Bash (Athentic Brewing Co.) f
The Third Annual Juried Show, featuring works in various mediums, will be on view at the Winterville Cultural Arts Center through June 12.
bulletin board & classifieds
Classifieds
HELP WANTED (Part-Time) Video Editor & Content Creator for new 4x4 offgrid DIY camping YouTube channel. Around 10 hours per week at $30/hr. Read more at milesog. com/editor
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 (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 (Art Studio) Artist studio space for lease downtown. Not apartment. 159 North Jackson St. Approx. 400 s/f. Electricity/ water included. $300/mon. Contact Michael at 706-201-6058 or mginn2872@aol.com
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 (Health) JAMES HILTON HYPNOSIS: Smoking, vaping, exam preparation and athletic performance enhancement. 678-8954278, www.hiltonhypnosis.org
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! WomanRun 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 lowmaintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity.
Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@gmail.com or call 631903-4365.
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 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 SEEKING DONATIONS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Accepting art paper, canvas, paint, tools and more for various community programs. www.accgov.com/lyndonhouse
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.wintervillecenter.com/
ANTIGONE (Town & Gown) Seeking a variety of performers for classic drama. June. 9–10. Performances held Aug. 7–16. www.townandgownplayers.org
OPEN AUDITIONS (Georgia Children’s Choir) GCC serves singers in grades 2–12. Auditions for placement across five ensembles currently available for all skill levels. www.georgiachildrenschorus. org/about/audition
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Master Chorale) Seeking new members in all voice parts including high sopranos, tenors and basses. Scheduled auditions held at St. Gregory the Great Church. athmcdirector@ gmail.com
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) The Athens Symphony is holding auditions for qualified musicians. www.athenssymphony. org/openings
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. 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)
Flow Yoga & Pilates (Monday), Yoga in the Gallery (Wednesdays), Chair Yoga & Creative Cafe (Thursdays) and more. www.winterville center.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. Through 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. 706-8500387 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.athensareadiaperbank.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 VOLUN-
TEERS (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
PET SUPPLY DRIVE (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking toys, towels, treats and all types of cat/dog food. In conjunction with the Community Pet Portrait Exhibit benefiting ACC Animal Services. Donations accepted during business hours. www.accgov.com/lyndonhouse
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. moms adoptingmoms@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 clothing for their free distribution program and fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting the program. 706-2075172
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 (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
TASTE THE TOWN RAFFLE (Athens Area Diaper Bank) Enter to win a gift card from a local business. Tickets available for annual fundraiser with all proceeds benefiting AADB mission. $25–100 for ticket bundles. www.athensareadiaperbank.com
TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access
free creative supplies at the store. Please bring credentials. www.acc gov.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
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 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-yearold 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.canopystudio.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. athenshumanesociety.org/summercamp
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/summercamp
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
Word on the Street
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS (Historic Athens) The Jubilee Award for Humanitarianism recognizes those who embody the spirit of progress, unity and positive change through servant leadership. Nominations are open until June 15. bit.ly/jubilee award26
CALL FOR VENDORS (Athens Juneteenth Festival & Celebration)
Seeking food and retail vendors, artists, community and nonprofit organizations tabling, and more. Event June 19. https://www.historic athens.com/athens-juneteenth
CALL FOR VENDORS (Classic City Juneteenth Music & Arts Festival)
Seeking food and retail vendors, artists, community and nonprofit organizations tabling, and more. Event June 20. www.aadmovement.org
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
COMMUNITY RUNNING GROUPS (Athens Road Runners) Weekly community runs for all skill levels including Speed Workout (Wednesdays, 5:30 a.m.) and Fun Runs (Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays, 7:15 a.m.). www.athens roadrunners.org
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
WEAVER D’S FIRST FRIDAYS (VFW Post 2872) Pop-up from Weaver D’s serving plates for $20 donations in benefit of the VFW. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. www.facebook.com/ vfwpost2872
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
food & drink
OF MONTREAL CONTINUES LOOKING FORWARD WITH 20TH ALBUM RELEASE
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Thirty years ago the artistically compelling pop band of Montreal was birthed from the Athens music scene, landing in the arms of the iconic Elephant 6 collective. Although frontperson Kevin Barnes says he’s not one to get sentimental about milestones, the band’s album releases have become an interesting way of telling time through his life.
was kind of a way for me to not think about the eight- year relationship. That’s what I should have been focusing on, but instead I’m focusing on this brand new thing that has no future, and there’s no reason to care this much about it, but it was totally displaced emotional obsession.”
However, there’s a light at the end of the emotional rollercoaster shared in aethermead. At this point Barnes says that he’s found his place in New York City. Looking back at this album and his habit of oversharing on the past 20 records, Barnes says that they’re truthful to those moments in time, and he doesn’t live with any creative regret.
On June 5 of Montreal released its 20th album, aethermead, via Polyvinyl Record Co., which details a recent transition in Barnes’ life laid bare with confessional rawness. Following a split with his then- fiancée, Barnes moved from Vermont to Brooklyn, jumping head first into building a life from the ground up in a new, bustling city while also tending to his own mental health.
“I don’t really make it easy on myself, you know. I just left this eight- year relationship, my world’s upside down, let’s move to a really chaotic city,” says Barnes. “I think moving to New York, it’s a place that’s very easy to romanticize, and a place where I’ve always wanted to live, but just for whatever reason it felt daunting and kind of impossible. But in this moment, it was actually the time to do it.”
The squirrelly electric guitar accents of “Take the Form” grapple with personal want and desire, emphasizing their edge within a mismatched relationship. Then the punktinged “When” tells a bold double- sided story of yearning based on a relationship that quickly formed after Barnes moved to New York City. He shares that, when coming out of a long- term relationship, there’s a lot taken for granted in the way of companionship and comfort that becomes clear in its absence, and he felt very much unlike himself navigating being “emotionally vulnerable in a city that doesn’t cater to people emotionally.”
“People are just in their own heads and living their lives, and there’s so many people all around constantly,” says Barnes. “There is a sort of detachment that’s inherent to this pretty toxic relationship with somebody when I first moved here, and so that’s what a lot of the songs are about, this sort of yearning for something which you’re not getting and confusion around that. It
“Even though now I’m like, ‘Oh, I don’t feel that way anymore,’ or I was being really mean and not as generous and as emotionally intelligent as I could have been in that moment, even on this new record—I think that’s kind of just the way you have to operate. You have to be in the moment without any sort of fear of regret in the future as an artist, because if you want it to be directly connected to your personal life, you can’t be selfconscious about the process,” says Barnes.
In general, Barnes says he feels “born again every day” and tries to stay in the present moment. Even when it comes to how he views the upcoming tour for this album, Barnes says any tour could hypothetically be the last, so the band goes into it with fresh excitement each time.
“I feel like in the past I’ve often maybe lived too far into the future, or just sort of floated above my life and not really engaged with the actual moment,” says Barnes. “I’m trying to get better about that in general. Then also on the tour, not seeing it like it’s just day five of 30 days or whatever. No, it’s all day one.”
The tour is kicking off in Athens on June 19 at the 40 Watt Club, and Barnes is planning on spending some time with his brother’s family in town before his crosscountry run of shows. David Barnes, who created the album art for aethermead, has worked on most of the art and visual performance content for of Montreal over the years. So while Kevin is staying with David, he’s looking forward to spending time with family, but also hitting some of his favorite restaurants. As much as Athens is known as a music town, even its musicians’ favorite thing about home tends to be the food.
To check out the album, music videos, merch and more before of Montreal makes its landing back in Athens, visit ofmontreal. net. f
WHO: of Montreal, Cormae WHEN: Friday, June 19, 7 p m (doors), 8 p m (show) WHERE: 40 Watt Club HOW MUCH: $25 43
good growing
Carnivorous Plants
ADDING BEAUTY AND INTRIGUE TO YOUR GARDEN
By Erin France editorial@flagpole.com
Venus fly traps, pitcher plants, sundews and bladderworts—these are exotic and wildlooking carnivorous plants that can grow in Georgia. With a bit of prep work, even the newest of growers can add these beauties to their gardens.
Rick Stanziale, also known as Fly Trap Hippie on Instagram, admits he’s not an expert on all things flora. “I do not have a green thumb,” he said. “I’m terrible with plants.”
But he’s got the touch when it comes to carnivorous plants. “I can’t kill them,” Stanziale said.
Stanziale’s current setup includes two bright blue kiddie pools filled halfway with water and some fencing around each to hold back the hungry deer. Deer will munch on anything, including carnivorous plants, he said. A recent move and this year’s run for AthensClarke County Commission in District 5 took most of his spare hours and delayed his landscaping designs. He plans to set up a bog garden featuring his bug- trapping collection in the next year. Carnivorous plants aren’t picky, but they do need a certain set of circumstances to thrive.
“Full sun is the first thing that catches people off guard,” Stanziale said. I admit, this surprised me. I’ve seen pitcher plants at the Georgia Botanical Garden in dappled sunlight and walked through boggy trails near Wilmington, N.C., where Venus fly traps grow naturally. Stanziale said carnivorous plants need at least six hours of sun, and often become more robust with more hours of light.
Next, you’ll need a liner or some other bowl or way to hold water. You’ll set your potted carnivorous plant in, continuously soaking their roots. Stanziale recommended avoiding clay pots, which have a tendency to dry out quickly. Clay pots are better suited for plants that enjoy drying out between waterings, such as Mediterranean herbs like lavender and rosemary.
don’t spray them with the hose. Stanziale keeps a rain barrel in his yard to keep his feasting flora well- watered, but distilled water is another easy alternative. Tap water isn’t a good option. Some of the chemicals found in treated water (like fluoride and chlorine), can’t be processed by carnivorous plants.
For the same reason, you can completely forget fertilizer when it comes to these plants. They don’t need it at all. “They catch all the bugs they need,” Stanziale said. Adding fertilizer can injure these plants. Their natural boggy environs are typically bereft of nutrients, so carnivorous plants can’t process many chemicals other plants slurp up—the same reason why tap water should be avoided.
Unfortunately, if you want an in-ground display, you’ll need to invest in some kind of bowl, barrel or liner, as well as a mixture of sand, perlite and peat. Though native to the Southeast, carnivorous plants like the Venus fly trap evolved to live in sandy bog environments, not clay soil. “I’ve seen people plant into the ground here, and it just doesn’t work,” Stanziale said.
Trying to amend the top portion of your soil won’t fix the problem either; some carnivorous plant roots reach 12- to 18-inches deep. But these plants are happy to hang out in pots if you don’t want to build an ecosystem for them in your yard. Despite issues with clay soil, watering is as easy as filling up the liner with water.
“You don’t top water them,” Stanziale said. If rain falls on them, that’s great—but
Though a tempting target, folks shouldn’t poke open Venus fly traps and force them to close, Stanziale said. The traps themselves activate two to four times before they die back and are replaced by a new one. If they are activated too many times without catching a fly, then they’ll lose energy in producing new traps, slowly killing the plant.
Unfortunately carnivorous plants, despite their propensity for catching bugs, also attract many pests. It reminds me of the gardener’s quip: The best place for a Japanese beetle trap is in your neighbor’s garden. Stanziale said you won’t notice fewer flies or wasps with carnivorous plants. It’s not a cheat code for pest eradication.
What they may not provide in pest management, they give back in interest and beauty. “All summer long they put on a great show,” Stanziale said.
These perennial plants do go dormant in the winter, but will start sending up flower stalks in spring, followed by their fly- catching apparatuses. f
Rick Stanziale shows off his collection of carnivorous plants.
ERIN FRANCE
by Margie E. Burke
by Margie E. Burke
JUNE 11-13, 2026
HOT CORNER SPONSORS 2026:
The Hot Corner Association, a nonprofit organization with the mission of preserving the history of Hot Corner organizes this annual festival to keep history alive and present. Every year the community comes together to present a wide variety of music, culture, art, kids’ entertainment and soul food, all to commemorate the history and heritage of the black community in Athens.
Festival Sponsors: Athens Banner Herald, Athens Clarke County Government, Athens Downtown Development Authority, Athfest Educates, Bennie Roberson, Bonnie and Mark Scott, Brown Barber Shop, CAT Sporty Marketing Group, Ciné Theatre, Destined Inc., First AME Church, John Hubbard Radio Station `105.3 FM WSGC, Homer R. Wilson, Little King, Live Wire Athens, Manhattan Café, Monae Wilson Real Estate, Morton Theater, MEU Radio, Morton Theatre, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Worthy, NAACP, Paloma Park, Sige Burden Jr., UGA Richard B Russell Library, UGA Special Collections, Wilson Hair World, Wilson’s Styling Shop, World Famous Inc, WUGA 91.7 and 94.5FM, WXAG 92.7 FM/1470 AM Radio
Festival Committee:
Mr. Homer Wilson, Organizer 706-543-2080, Dr. Tawana Smith Mattox (Dr. T), Co-Chair 706-461-6678
Ms. Tonya Wilson Norman, Co-Chair 803-807-0218 Email: hotcornerath@gmail.com Web Address: www.hotcornerathens.weebly.com
Thursday, June 11th, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, Reception at Ciné 234 W. Hancock Avenue hosted by Marcel Mincey featuring Amanda 7Dzimianski (2026 – 2028 Athens Poet Laureate), Blacknerdninja and Seaboard Bridge Band.
Friday, June 12th, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm – Opening Gospel Program at First AME Church, 521 N. Hull Rev. Chekibe Holman, Senior Pastor Rev. Syreeta W. Holman, Co-Pastor; Program Hostesses – Athens Golden Girls and AKHi Court 259; MCs – Barbara “Lady B” Sims and Minister Clarence Smith – Welcome - “Devotion Dedicated to Mr. Venus Jarrell” a longtime worship leader for Hot Corner Gospel Night and Saturday morning Festival Devotion led by Deacon Lawrence Smith. Program: Restoration Choir, Liturgical Dance - Minister Lawanna Cofer, Offering, Gospel Aires, Memorial, Linda Adams, Morton Chapel Male Choir, UUFA Chalice Choir and Palms of Fire Drummers and Jaukeem Fortson;
Saturday, June 13th, 11 am – 10 pm Hot Corner Festival Corner of Washington and Hull. Go to www.hotcorner HOT CORNER ASSOCIATION - Home for full line up and vendor list the day of the festival.
