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JUNE 24, 2026 · VOL. 40 · NO. 25 · FREE

AthFest 2026 Full Schedule and Affiliated Events pp. 11–14

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

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In OCAF’s main gallery, the juried exhibition “Southworks” showcases a variety of artists using different mediums. Artist talks will be held on June 25 and June 30 at 6 p.m. For more exhibitions and art events, see Art Around Town on p. 18.

This Modern World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 NEWS: City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Fisher Wins Mayor’s Race

Downballot Runoffs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Curb Your Appetite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Guide to AthFest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 AthFest Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

NEWS: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Redistricting Reconsidered

Performer Listings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Calendar Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Live Music Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

ARTS & CULTURE: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Event Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Guide to AthFest

Art Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

MUSIC: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

AthFest Schedule

Adopt Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Local Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Threats & Promises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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 Ellie Fivas, Maya Homan, Gordon Lamb, Alander Rocha 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 COVER DESIGN by Jackie Baxter Roberts with art by AthFest 2026 theme artist Maggie Baxter Dearth (see AthFest coverage on pp. 11–14) STREET ADDRESS: 220 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30601 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603 EDITORIAL: 706-­549-­9523 · ADVERTISING: 706-­549-­0301 CLASSIFIED ADS: class@flagpole.com ADVERTISING: ads@flagpole.com CALENDAR: calendar@flagpole.com EDITORIAL: editorial@flagpole.com

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online exclusive Akademia Brewing Co. has announced that it will be closing after service finishes on Sunday, June 28. Meanwhile downtown, Starland Lounge & Lanes recently closed, too. But construction is underway at the corner of West Dougherty and Pulaski streets for a location of the Mississippi Delta chain Lost Pizza Co.

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ATHENS AREA

HEALTH DEPARTMENTS NortheastHealthDistrict.org

city dope

to sway doubters. He has disregarded statistics about Athens’ tight housing market because multifamily property owners told him vacancies are high. The same landlords who donated to his campaign have a vested interest in keeping the housing

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com supply low and rents high. As mayor, will he heed the advice “Twenty years ago to the day,” Charlie wood, SC, raised by a single mom, would of ACC staff, other experts and Maddox told me, reminding me of his race be heading the 6th largest city in Georgia?” numerous studies by easing against then-­mayor Heidi Davison in 2006.

Fisher said, reflecting on victory. zoning restrictions and slightly He was a little bit off—local elections It did not look like they would pull it off increasing density in some areas, back then were still held in the fall—but a after the first round of voting May 19, when or follow through on attempting clearly emotional Maddox could be forgiven Fisher finished 11 points behind Denson, to halt new housing construcfor misremembering the exact date. He had who led with 38% of the vote. Generally tion? Will the relationship skills just seen Dexter Fisher achieve what he did turnout for a runoff declines by about half, he touted be enough to convince not do back then: become the first Black which would mean all Denson had to do his friend Jere Morehead—and mayor of Athens. was make sure a majority of his supporters the Board of Regents, the next “We finally got it,” Maddox said. “I feel came back out June 16. Almost all of them chancellor, the Georgia legislagreat.” did, but turnout was much higher than ture and the next governor—to He should. His campaign invented the expected, so it wasn’t enough. Fisher added build more dorms on campus, as Michael Thurmond, the first Black state representative from formula for Fisher’s victory—teaming up about 3,300 votes to his total from May 19, Fisher promised?

Athens elected since Reconstruction, signs a petition to name Black and Republican voters. Four years clearly indicating that whichever LaKeisha Fisher will enjoy the support later, Nancy Denson would add a smatterGantt or Mara Zuniga voters turned back of a majority on the commission a downtown park after Athens’ first two Black state representatives, Alf Richardson and Madison Davis. ing of moderate white Democrats on top to out gravitated toward Fisher. when he takes office in January. beat progressive Gwen O’Looney. It didn’t Part of this can be explained by the Five of the seven returning comwork for Harry Sims in 2018, and nobody fact that the number of voters who pulled missioners endorsed him, as did Ed Tolley, any one election or office. Progress comes really tried it in 2022, but Fisher (along Republican primary ballots on June 16 who will replace John Culpepper in District from the people. And I plan to fight with with campaign managers Jennifer Zwirn jumped by five points compared to May 7. Tracy Smith upset loose-­cannon incumand for the people of Athens-­Clarke County and Cameron Jay Harrelson) returned to 19. It’s still clear, though, that Fisher had a bent Ovita Thornton in District 9, winning for many years to come.” that old Maddox/Denson playbook and ran bigger tent. While Republicans were never by just 29 votes, and Craig Topple defeated it to perfection. But for term-­limited Mayor going to support Denson, some tough conKimberly Bennett to win Fisher’s District Kelly Girtz, it really harkened back to that versations are ahead for white progressives 5 seat. The new combination could create 2006 race, which was just as divisive as about why a platform based on issues like what Girtz called “a coalition of the ratio2026, albeit without the toxicity of social affordable housing and fare-­free transit nal,” even if it’s not the progressive comHistoric Athens formally submitted media. that should have appealed to Black voters mission that swept into office in 2018. “I a petition during a Juneteenth festido think the next iteration val to name a new downtown pocket of the commission will be more successful,” Girtz said. park after Athens’ first two Black state representatives.

Progressives should note The petition seeks to name the space that there are some things Richardson-­Davis Park for Alf Richardson they can agree with Fisher and Madison Davis, two African Americans on. For example, why does elected to the Georgia legislature in 1868, it take 20 or 30 years to after the Civil War and subsequent Constibuild something as simple tutional amendments created equal rights as a sidewalk or a bike lane? for former slaves. Tragically, this era of legal He promised to complete infrastructure projects more equality ended along with Reconstruction in 1876. With Jim Crow laws suppressing quickly. However, that will Black voting rights, Athens would not elect require telling people “no.” another African American for 100 years.

No, we don’t need a fifth The third Black state representative round of public input. No, from Athens, Michael Thurmond, told we don’t need to send this those gathered for the ceremony that he back to staff and have them was inspired to run when he came across a redesign it again. No, we’re dissertation about Davis and Richardson at not going to rule out using the UGA library in the 1970s. He had never eminent domain to acquire heard their story before. Thurmond went a small piece of property on to write a book about Black history in if it stands in the way of Athens and have a long career in politics, something like Firefly Trail most recently coming up short in the Demthat benefits the public at The coalition Dexter Fisher built to win the mayor’s race gathered at the event space 1055 Barber for an Election Night ocratic gubernatorial primary. large. That is not something watch party.

“Without Juneteenth,” a federal holiday he’s been wont to do in the commemorating June 19, 1865, when the past.

“There was probably at least as much Union army arrived in Galveston, TX to apparently did not resonate. (At the same Looking at his commission votes over focus on Tim and Dexter’s negatives as emancipate the last enslaved people, “there time, Gantt and her supporters are going to the years reveals that, if there is one thing on their positives,” Girtz said when Flagnever would have been a right to vote, and have to come to grips with why her message Fisher cares about, it’s keeping anyone pole asked him to analyze the race. The they never would have had the opportunity did not attract Denson voters.) The midst who shows up en masse at the City Hall right feared a Democratic Socialist mayor, to serve in office,” Thurmond said. of an election, when emotions are running podium happy. In his words: “Do you want Girtz said, and Denson played into it by The ceremony featured numerous curhot, is not the best environment for such a mayor who’s going to force-­feed you what “looking like the Tim you’d see at Hi-­Lo rent and former Black elected officials, soul-­searching. Hopefully the discourse can he thinks you should have, or do you want on a Friday night.” He also cited Fisher’s including Athens-­Clarke County commisbe more productive moving forward, now a mayor who will listen to you?” Fisher has “fact-­free statements,” both behind the sioners Patrick Davenport, Ovita Thornton that we do in fact have a Black mayor. promised to be a man of the people. “I will rail and during forums, and support from and Tiffany Taylor; former commissioner Fisher, as triumphant candidates often not hide behind a desk,” he said on Election Athens Forward, a mysterious conservative Alvin Sheats; former Clarke County (before do, invited vanquished foes to join him Night. dark-­money independent committee that unification) commissioner John Jeffreys, during an Election Night speech. “I need If Fisher proves to be an open-­minded dropped almost $100,000 on mailers in Sheriff John Q. Williams, retired Magistrate y’all to jump on the bandwagon, get this mayor, this constituent-­pleasing tendency support of Fisher.

Court Judge Patrica Barron; and school thing going, and we’re going to be the Claswill give progressives an opportunity to Regardless of one’s political affiliation, board members Linda Elder Davis and Mary sic City everybody wants us to be,” he said. influence policy. As Denson said in an it was a historic evening for Athens. “Who P. Bagby.

If he wants to unite Athens, though, Election Night message to supporters, ”The ➤ continued on next page would have thought a little boy from Green- he’s going to have some convincing to do capacity to make change is not limited to

Why Did Dexter Fisher Win?

ATHENS’ FIRST BLACK MAYOR BUILT A BROAD COALITION, AND MORE NEWS

Petition Seeks to Name Park for Black Lawmakers

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continued from p. 5

The newly opened park occupies a former parking lot next to the Costa Building at the corner of Washington and Lumpkin streets, in the shadow of a mural by Miami artist Elio Mercado and Athens artist Brodrick Flanigan celebrating local Black musicians and entrepreneurs.

The petition, signed by 1,000 people and counting, is only the first step toward officially naming the park. Ultimately it must be approved by the ACC Commission, which Mayor Kelly Girtz said was all but certain to happen.

ICE Drops Social Circle Plans

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has dropped plans to build a massive Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in the nearby city of Social Circle.

The city announced that it had received word from U.S. Rep. Mike Collins and confirmed with DHS that it would not move forward with the facility. Although Walton County voters strongly supported President Trump in the 2024 election, many voiced concerns about water and sewer capacity, the impact on tax rolls and safety at an elementary school close by. The detention center would have housed up to 10,000 people, double the city’s population of 5,000.

“From the beginning, the Social Circle community united against this proposal, which risked overwhelming the city’s infrastructure,” U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff said in a statement. “This news proves yet again that public pressure and opposition works.

“I congratulate Social Circle Mayor David Keener, City Manager Eric Taylor and the entire community on this achievement, and I will continue fighting alongside Georgia communities against overreach by this administration.”

Collins, a Republican who also represents Athens, is running against Ossoff this fall.

“I’m all for helping DHS, and I’m behind that, to make sure we get rid of these illegal criminals that have been throughout our

country,” Collins told 11Alive in February. “But I also understand Social Circle’s concerns, from not just an infrastructure [standpoint], but resources that may be needed. So it’s nice to see DHS is working with them, talking with them. There’s a lot of communication back and forth to make sure they address the concerns and alleviate any of the concerns they may have.”

As Democratic U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock pointed out, though, Social Circle officials only found out about the plan when they read it in the Washington Post. He visited Social Circle in March.

“It was clear to me then, and it’s clear to me now, that this administration viewed Social Circle’s concerns as a thorn in their side,” Warnock said during a call with reporters. “It was not until the story was elevated nationwide that the administration backed down.

“To put it plainly, the officials in the Trump/Vance administration got nervous because the people stood up and began to speak out,” he added.

Last month, Social Circle filed a federal lawsuit against DHS stating that the “mega-­center” would strain water and sewer resources and emergency services. “The community is very unified,” Taylor said at the time. “We want them to go away.”

Members of the local progressive groups Indivisible Georgia District 10 and Indivisible Boldly Blue joined with thousands of others in opposition to the facility. “The announcement tonight [June 18] that the Department of Homeland Security is abandoning the Social Circle detention center shows that when citizens come together with courage, integrity, bipartisan determination and mutual respect, we can help a whole community win,” those groups said in a statement.

DHS had paid $129 million—five times the assessed value—for the warehouse and surrounding 235 acres. Now the question is how much, if any, of that money will be recouped by taxpayers.

According to the City of Social Circle, the property will be sold if no other federal agency expresses interest in it. “I’m not sure what will happen to it at this point,” Warnock said. f

news

feature

majority Black and was among the districts that advocates worried could have been targeted by Republicans during the redistricting process.

“This was a massive victory for the people who organized and protested these maps because they knew the stakes,” Clark said in a statement. “This fight is not over, but I am happy that residents of Georgia’s 13th Congressional District will continue to have the power to elect their

By Maya Homan and Alander Rocha news@flagpole.com representatives.”

Though Democrats celebrated the move, they also urged eorgia Republicans abruptly changed course on the apportionment process, especially with the Legislature Georgians to stay vigilant in case of future redistricting redistricting last week, retreating from their plans already convening,” Kemp said in a statement. “Legislative efforts. Former Democratic state Sen. Jason Esteves said to redraw congressional and state district lines for districting, however, is the responsibility of the General the unforeseen can still happen, and that Georgians need to the 2028 election less than an hour before lawmakers gavAssembly, and it is within their discretion to defer the issue keep showing up at the Capitol to “make sure that legislaeled in for the special session. until a later date.” tors see that we are holding them accountable.”

In a joint press conference July 17, House Speaker Jon Earlier this year, Kemp broke with many other RepubRep. Michelle Au, a Johns Creek Democrat, warned that Burns, a Newington Republican, and Senate President Pro lican-​led states in the South when he announced that the Republican leaders could return for another special session Tem Larry Walker III, a Perry Republican, told a boisterous state would not pursue redistricting ahead of the 2026 on redistricting after the November election. “Don’t get crowd that they planned to focus on securing property general election. States like Alabama and Tennessee have comfortable,” she said. tax relief and ratifying last month’s gas tax suspension rushed to break up Black-​majority districts since the Before Georgia Republicans publicly nixed their redisrather than redistricting. Lawmakers must also address a Supreme Court ruling. In neighboring South Carolina, lawtricting plans, demonstrators packed the Capitol to speak July 1 deadline for QR codes to be removed from Georgia’s makers contemplated redistricting but ultimately chose not out against the plan to redraw district lines. Roughly 200 ballots. to pursue it. people attended a march through downtown Atlanta, with protestors calling for lawmakers to preserve Black voters’ electoral power rather than reducing it.

During a gathering at Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in downtown Atlanta ahead of the march, voting rights advocates and faith leaders framed the redistricting push as a resurgence of decades-​old efforts to suppress Black voting power across the South. “These maneuvers designed to make it hard for ordinary people to participate in the democratic process are not original, they are not innovative, they are not creative,” said Michael L. Mitchell, an AME bishop. “They are tired reruns of a stale and desperate playbook written in the 1950s and the 1960s.”

The timing of the event may have also favored voting rights activists: Atlanta is hosting eight FIFA World Cup matches throughout June and July, giving protestors the potential to garner international attention.

During the event, activists urged attendees to stay engaged and to help turn out as many voters as possible during the midterms. “Democracy was never meant to be something that happens to us,” said Jackie Killings, the president of the League of Women Voters of Georgia. “Democracy is what we do. It runs on ordinary people, like each one of you here today, who decide Senate President Larry Walker, joined by House Speaker Jon Burns (right), announced that Republicans would not pursue redistricting during a special session that they would not sit down, they would that started June 17. not be quiet, and we would not wait to be seen and not wait to be heard.”

“As we convene today, the Georgia House Republicans Some Republicans, including Sen. Greg Dolezal of CumLawmakers convened for the special session ahead of a are focused on Georgia’s future and the issues that really ming, who is the GOP nominee for lieutenant governor, weekend when Black Georgians celebrated Juneteenth, a matter to our neighbors across this state, not partisan expressed disapproval about legislative leaders’ decision federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of the gain,” Burns said. to pause the redistricting process. “I’ve always been of the last enslaved Black Americans. Despite Republicans opting Both lawmakers added that they were waiting to see opinion we should do it as soon as possible,” Dolezal said. not to hold a session on Friday, June 19, Democratic state how pending legal cases played out. “We believe it would “So, if the legal mechanics put us in the position where we Rep. David Wilkerson from Powder Springs noted that be wise to allow the judicial process to further develop in couldn’t do it, I understand that. My preference, though, is many people in Cobb County celebrate Juneteenth on other states and evaluate how courts rule on newly adopted we go as fast as we can.”

Saturday. district maps elsewhere,” Walker said. “With this guidance, Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones, an Augusta Republicans scheduled session days only until Monday, we are confident that Georgia’s new districts will ultimately Democrat, argued the widespread pushback from Georgia although lawmakers could continue to meet beyond then. withstand legal scrutiny.” residents ultimately led Republican lawmakers to abandon That led Lithonia Democratic state Rep. Doreen Carter The legal dispute over Georgia’s current political maps their redistricting plans. to press House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration about is still pending. A federal judge ordered lawmakers to draw “Make no mistake, it was the people of Georgia who put “the significance of not coming Tuesday versus coming on new maps in 2023 to create an additional majority Black pressure on the General Assembly and let them know they Saturday.” congressional district in west metro Atlanta and seven did not appreciate the attempt to steal these elections,” “It’s extremely disrespectful of the Black community additional majority Black legislative districts.

Jones said. “Throughout this process, the people have really and Father’s Day weekend that you all are going to have us Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, who added redistricting to been galvanized and energized, and so those who wanted to here,” Carter said. the agenda when he convened the special session, said he actually restrict African Americans’ voting power, they saw Efstration said it was a “very difficult balance to find” believed that a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that that, and they decided today it was not in their best interwhere lawmakers had to consider prior obligations, like diluted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act made est to go forward.” funerals and vacations, holidays and “a desire by many Georgia’s current maps unconstitutional. But Kemp, who State Rep. Jasmine Clark, a Lilburn Democrat and nomi- members to try to finish as quickly as possible.” f is term-​limited and serving his final year in office, acknowlnee for Congressional District 13, echoed Jones’ sentiment.

This article originally appeared at georgiarecorder.com. Georgia edged that he did not have the authority to force lawmakers The district, which includes Rockdale County and parts of Recorder intern Ellie Fivas contributed to this report. to draw new maps. “I do not believe there is reason to delay Clayton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Henry and Newton counties, is

Republicans Reconsider Redistricting GOP BACKS AWAY FROM EFFORT TO ELIMINATE BLACK DISTRICTS

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ALANDER ROCHA / GEORGIA RECORDER

JUNE 24, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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John King, who ran unopposed for the GOP nomination.

Downballot Runoffs WHO WON LAST WEEK’S LESSER-​KNOWN RACES?

By Ellie Fivas news@flagpole.com

As

Georgians headed to the polls on June 16, voters were doing more than just determining Republican nominees for the top of the ticket—both parties also decided nominations for key down-​ballot primary races.

Democrats and Republican voters returned to choose their nominees for lieutenant governor and secretary of state.

Republican voters also had to settle the race for Public Service Commission District 5 and state school superintendent.

Democrats chose between the top two candidates for both labor and insurance commissioners.

These nominees are now turning their focus to the general election in November.

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR: Attorney and state Sen. Josh McLaurin took home the STATE SCHOOL SUPER­ Democratic nomination INTENDENT: Incumbent for lieutenant governor, Richard Woods squeaked beating Nabilah Parkes, by to win the Republican a consultant and former nomination with roughly state senator. McLaurin, 51% of the vote, while Fred who is from Sandy Springs, “Bubba” Longgrear earned earned roughly 54% of the about 48%. vote, while Parkes, from The primary and runoff Duluth, received about elections were both hotly 45%. Both McLaurin and contested, with many Parkes centered their prominent Republican campaigns on lowering lawmakers endorsing rising costs of living for Longgrear over Woods.

Georgians, with emphasis During Woods’ primary on expanding Medicaid and campaign, he pledged to developing more affordable continue addressing youth housing. literacy. He has faced critiIn March, Parkes cism for low literary scores resigned her state Senate statewide during his tenure seat during the legislative as superintendent, which session to run for lieuJosh McLaurin, who won the Democratic primary runoff for lieutenant governor, visited Longgrear’s campaign capitenant governor, rather Little Kings in May 2025. talized on. than insurance commis“Despite being outspent sioner as she had originally Fleming was deputy secretary of state $1,500,000 to $50,000, we weren’t outplanned—a move that McLaurin criticized under Brian Kemp, while Jones switched worked. I deeply appreciate the grassroots during his runoff campaign. McLaurin parties after the 2020 election and is now efforts across the state that delivered a viccredited his victory to how he adjusted his a staunch supporter of President Donald tory on Tuesday. As we look to November, messaging to appeal to voters outside of Trump. Fleming focused his campaign on I’m confident we’ll deliver a victory just metro Atlanta. guarding against election fraud and champi- like we have the past three elections—not “Republicans have tried to keep a oning voter ID policies. just for me, but for the students, parents monopoly over issues outside of metro Fleming thanked voters in a Facebook and educators of Georgia,” Woods said in a Atlanta, so we’ve got to break that monopvideo for the “overwhelming support” and statement to the Recorder. oly,” McLaurin told the Georgia Recorder. expressed enthusiasm for the November Woods will face Democratic nominee “I tried to campaign in a way that would general election.

Lydia Powell in November. help break it by traveling to all corners of the state, really listening, and it made a big INSURANCE COMMISSIONER: Voters also decided PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION: Voters also setdifference.” between two candidates for the Democratic tled the GOP race for PSC District 5 in these McLaurin will face state Sen. Greg nominee for insurance commissioner in elections. Josh Tolbert, a mechanical engiDolezal, who clinched the Republican nomlast Tuesday’s runoff election. Former state neer from Cobb County, won the nominaination for lieutenant governor on Tuesday Rep. Keisha Sean Waites opposed DeAndre tion with roughly 59% of the vote, beating night. Dolezal, who is from Cumming, Mathis, an insurance agent from South out mediator Bobby Mehan. triumphed with about 54% of the vote over Fulton. Waites, also a former Atlanta City Tolbert, who pledged to use his technical former Macon state Sen. John F. Kennedy, Council member, succeeded against her experience to focus on facts rather than polwho received about 45%. opponent with roughly 58% of the vote, itics, will face Democratic candidate Sheila Dolezal centered his campaign on propwith Mathis earning about 41%.

Edwards, a communications professional erty tax reform, public school alternatives “While we have come a long way, our and energy advocate. The November race and election integrity, along with opposing work is not finished,” Waites said in an Inscould be a determining factor in whether illegal immigration and sharia law. Dolezal tagram statement on Tuesday night. “The Republicans can maintain their majority on told the Georgia Recorder that he plans to finish line is within sight, but this is the the commission. f campaign similarly in the general election. time when we must push harder than ever.”

“Our messaging has really been focused Come November, Waites will face incum- This article originally appeared at georgiarecorder. on the preservation of the American dream, com. bent Republican insurance commissioner and that will not change,” he said.

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SECRETARY OF STATE: Penny Brown Reynolds, a former judge and previous member of the Biden administration, won about 63% of the vote among Democrats, while Fulton County Commissioner Dana Barrett earned roughly 36%. Brown Reynolds campaigned on preserving voting rights, ensuring election integrity and empowering small businesses.

“It was an absolute blowout,” Brown Reynolds said in an online video. “You finished what we started, and now we have to take it all the way to November.”

State Rep. Tim Fleming of Covington, who won the Republican nomination for secretary of state, will face Brown Reynolds in November. Fleming faced former Democratic state Rep. Vernon Jones, with Fleming earning about 64% of the vote and Jones receiving about 35%.

LABOR COMMISSIONER: Nikki Porcher, an Air Force veteran and nonprofit founder, secured the Democratic nomination for labor commissioner with about 61% of the vote. Porcher beat Michelle “Michi” Sánchez, a community organizer who previously served on the Hall County Board of Elections, who earned about 38% of the vote.

While Sanchez received multiple endorsements from state lawmakers and former and current county commissioners, Porcher won the nomination with priorities focused on affordable childcare, Department of Labor customer service and small business development.

“I’m grateful to every Georgian who made their voice heard in this election.

Our democracy is strongest when people participate, and I look forward to bringing people together to build a Georgia where work works for everyone,” Porcher said in a press release.

Porcher will face appointed Republican incumbent Bárbara Rivera Holmes in the general election.

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

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JUNE 24, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

9

Southeastern Mineral Specimens Presents-

The 2026 Classic City Gem & Mineral Show!

www.imineral.net

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

June 26, 27, and 28, 2026

Grand Hall 7, The Classic Center

Athens, Georgia 706-296-9467

10

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

www.imineral.net

imineral@bellsouth.net

feature

JAKE ZERKEL

arts & culture

Flagpole ’s Guide to AthFest PLAN AHEAD AND MAP OUT YOUR FESTIVAL WEEKEND

By Libba Beaucham and Sam Lipkin arts@flagpole.com

T

his weekend, the 28th annual three-​day AthFest Music & Arts Festival takes place June 26–28 across several blocks of downtown. With more than 100 performers of various genres and styles filling three outdoor stages and 14 club crawl venues, there’s something for all ages and musical tastes. The free festival also features an artist market, vendors, food trucks, kids’ activities and more.

Proceeds of the festival benefit the nonprofit AthFest Educates, which raised more than $65,000 for arts and music education last year as a direct result of AthFest.

More information about the organization’s fundraising and grants can be found at athfesteducates.org. For the past two years, a crowdfunding initiative allows donations to be made to AthFest Educates as votes for participating performers, with the highest fundraising performer securing an evening main stage slot at AthFest. Donations for this year’s participating bands can be made at givebutter.com/ athfest-​music-​arts-​festival-​2026.

Affiliated AthFest events begin Thursday, June 25 and continue through the weekend, including a kickoff party at the 40 Watt Club, yoga sessions with M3, Athens Out Loud poetry readings, a late-​night screening of the Elephant 6 documentary, It’s Nateball’s Funny Bone comedy show and the Athens Art Book Fair (see p. 15 for details). Find out what you need to know for all things AthFest below, and see p. 12 for Flagpole’s comprehensive performance schedule.

Club Crawl When the music dies down on the outdoor stages Friday and Saturday evening, the doors of 14 different venues will open for those wishing to keep the party going late night.

The easiest way to get the full experience of show-​hopping is to purchase a club crawl wristband. For $35 in advance or $40 after the festival begins on June 26, wristbands grant access (subject to capacity and age restrictions) to shows at Ciné, Clarke’s Collective, Dead Beat Club, Duke’s & Dottie’s, Flicker Theatre & Bar, the 40 Watt Club, Georgia Theatre, The Globe, Hendershot’s, Live Wire Athens, Nowhere Bar, Paloma Park, The Roadhouse and Union Fare. A VIP Day Pass ($100) includes access to all Club Crawl venues, a stainless steel keepsake water bottle, three beer vouchers and access to VIP areas near the outdoor main stage, as well as at the Georgia Theatre and 40 Watt Club. A full VIP Weekend Pass ($175) will throw in a commemorative T-​ shirt and an extra three pours. The VIP Pass also includes access to the Morton Theatre during the afternoon of Saturday and Sunday to cool off in the air conditioning and use the restroom, including handicapped-​accessible facilities.

AthFest Gospel Stage This year marks the 5th anniversary of the AthFest Gospel Brunch, which began as an outreach effort to connect with community members who may not frequently attend the festival. After much success, the event has been moved closer to the downtown AthFest blueprint and eliminated brunch and its associated ticket price. The now free concert will take place on Saturday at Live Wire Athens from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Performers include Moccasin Gap, The Solstice Sisters, Jalen Eberhardt, Reverend Dr. Justin Barbour, Nations Singers, The Shang Hull Event Dancers Youth Group with the Hill Chapel Vision of Praise Dance Youth Group, Marco and Friends, and the YMCA Kids Choir.

AthFest Artist Market More than 70 artists and makers were selected to participate in the AthFest Artist Market, featuring an expansive variety of original works and hand-​crafted products for sale. Vendor booths with paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramics, woodwork, clothing, body care items, sculpture

and more will line Washington Street between Hull and Lumpkin streets. The artist market will be open Friday from 5–10 p.m., Saturday from 12–10 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30–8 p.m.

A list of all participating artists is available at athfest.com.

AthFest Theme Artist Each year AthFest selects a local artist to create themed artwork for the festival’s branding from merch and billboards to the cover of Flagpole. This year’s theme artist is Maggie Baxter Dearth, owner of Make Nice Design Co., who is known for both whimsical and hyper-​realistic watercolor paintings, prints and stationary. Baxter’s AthFest theme was inspired by local “lubber” grasshoppers that she and her sister saw around town. “My sister, Jackie Baxter Roberts, and I decided these bugs had made such an impression on us as nature’s little works of art that they should be what I submitted as the main idea for the theme art, along with some classic Athens landmarks and a few other supporting creepy crawlers,” said Dearth. The sisters worked together on the design applications. “Jackie has always been my creative collaborator, so it is fitting that she is the graphic artist for this year’s AthFest. She was the one who added the moon, final lettering and other reproducible elements to make it into a logo and a full brand system that makes my designs look cohesive,” she explained. Dearth and her family members moved to Athens in 2010 from a small town in Mississippi. “The Athens art scene is one of the things that led me to Athens… I appreciate the opportunity it gives local artists and the art that can be seen by locals every day and tourists as they come through Athens.

I love this town,” says Dearth.

KidsFest For kid-​friendly fun and activities, head to the KidsFest zone where you’ll find free hands-​on activities and demonstrations, plus ticketed carnival rides and bounce houses.

The KidsFest Stage will feature live music and dance for all ages. Three bands from Full Moon School of Music will perform Friday evening: Rent Free, Pineapple Shoelace and Full Moon Tuesday Band. A family-​friendly dance party with DJ Mahogany will take place on Saturday from 1–3 p.m. at the Georgia Theatre. Other performances throughout the weekend include local music academies, choirs, orchestral music, dance performances and other artists.

Saturday evening there will be fire spinners set up at 7:45 p.m. near the newly opened Costa Building park. Drinking water and family bathroom units will be open during festival hours on Friday from 6–9 p.m., Saturday from 10:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30–4:30 p.m. An affiliated Kids Yoga Fun Flow will take place Saturday from 8:30 a.m. at M3 Boulevard Moon Studio at 175 Tracy St.

Food Truck Eats and Cool Treats Located at the surface lot between the Morton Theatre and West Washington Street parking deck is the Union Fare food truck park, which will include eats like La Chancla, Cafe Racer and The Fry Factory. If you’re looking to cool down, treats like King of Pops, Kona Ice, Smoothie King, Pelican Ice and La Michoacana can be found along the main stretch of the festival offering a little something for everyone.

Beer Gardens and Festival Zone Wristbands Attendees 21 and up can purchase $5 Festival Zone Wristbands to carry purchased beer, wine and other age-​

restricted products within the designated Festival Zone.

The wristbands are available for sale at the beer tents, merch tent and at participating bars within the Festival Zone labeled on the official AthFest map. You’ll need your ID and a debit or credit card to make your purchase (ApplePay and GooglePay are not currently accepted).

Videos, Photographs and More Many creative and hardworking Athenians stay on the scene all weekend so you can enjoy the entertainment from the comfort of your own home or relive it again later.

Returning as an official affiliated partner, JOKERJOKERtv will provide a livestream of all performances on the Wicked Weed Brewing main stage. The livestream will be aired via YouTube (@JOKERJOKERtvofficial) Friday through Sunday.

Gregory Frederick and Frank Russell of the Athens GA Live Music YouTube channel will be the festival’s official videographers this year, and Flagpole readers can look forward to a giant roundup of videos in the weekly recap at flagpole.com. Their coverage will venture into the Club Crawl shows at night, in addition to the daytime festivities. AthFest’s official photographer, Mike White, will post images to his website deadlydesigns.com, while Flagpole photographers Mary Beth Bryan, Jake Zerkel and Kat Wood plan to share galleries at flagpole.com.

Label and Promoter Showcases AthFest’s booking committee is committed to representing the genre and style diversity of the Athens music scene, and it strives to bring out crowd favorites while also giving up-​and-​comers an opportunity to shine. With so many options, it can be overwhelming. The Club Crawl includes some thoughtfully curated showcases presented by labels, show promoters and artist collectives known for cultivating their respective scenes, and they can be a great place to hang out for the night.

On Friday, New West and Strolling Bones Records will take over the Georgia Theatre from top to bottom with performances by Rick Fowler Band, Lilly Hiatt, The Pink Stones and Dash Rip Rock on the main stage, while the rooftop rocks out with Spencer Thomas, Mountain of Youth and Johnny Delaware. Dosed By an Angel is hosting at The Roadhouse with a punk-​tinged lineup of Sick Papa, Invisible Machine, Johnny Falloon and Regulator. Classic City Rotary and the Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards will host their annual singer-​songwriter-​heavy lineup at The Globe on the early side, starting at 7:15 p.m. and wrapping up by 11 p.m.

On Saturday, ATHfactor Entertainment and Volumes Hip Hop host a hip-​hop showcase on the Georgia Theatre Rooftop featuring DJ ChiefRocka, Neverjaded, Sxvxnt, Ishues, Alfred Banks, Stella Groove, Kxng Blanco and Quanny Peso. Ashthrone Booking will be at The Roadhouse for a heavy lineup including Spiritless, FieldHockey, Estimated Principles and Intension. The dance party will continue at Union Fare with Dawghouse Productions hosting DJ sets by Jaime, Tribe and Banjo. Over at Dead Beat Club, Normaltown Neighborhood Network presents Priestess Choir, Klezmer Local 42 and Pylon Reenactment Society. f

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music

feature

AthFest Schedule

Thursday 6/25

10:15 p.m. T he Pink Stones 11:45 p.m. D ash Rip Rock

 7–11 p.m. Tank Touring AthFest Kickoff Party with Sweet Tea Pedigree, Florence Cardigan, Ten High and Sunspur (40 Watt Club) $8 (w/ AthFest wristband), $10

Georgia Theatre Rooftop (18+*)

Friday 6/26

The Globe (All Ages)

 5–10 p.m. Artist Market (Washington Street between Hull and Lumpkin) FREE!  6–9 p.m. KidsFest (Washington Street between Lumpkin and College) FREE!

Wicked Weed Main Stage (All Ages) 5:00 p.m. K enosha Kid 5:50 p.m. V iv and the Things 6:40 p.m. H iding Places 7:45 p.m. s uperstar 9:00 p.m. I mprovement Movement

Hull Street Stage (All Ages)

8:30 p.m. S pencer Thomas 9:45 p.m. M ountain of Youth 11:15 p.m. J ohnny Delaware 7:15 p.m. J ackie Hales 8:00 p.m. A ndrea DeMarcus 8:45 p.m. M ichael Joe White 9:30 p.m. J ulia Barfield 10:15 p.m. F reeman Leverett

Hendershot’s (All Ages) 9:00 p.m. Y our Ex’s Pets 10:00 p.m. D el Roscoe 11:00 p.m. M K Barnes

Live Wire (18+*)

10:30 p.m. F rute 12:00 a.m. S amurai Test Drive

5:25 p.m. T rycoh 6:15 p.m. R acecar 44 7:15 p.m. B ayou Princess 8:25 p.m. C oma Therapy 9:00 p.m. S ilent Disco with Booty Boyz

Nowhere Bar (21+)

KidsFest Stage (All Ages)

Paloma Park (All Ages)

6:00–8:00 p.m. F ull Moon School of Music UpNext Showcase

Ciné (All Ages)

10:00 p.m. S acred Bull 11:00 p.m. N oise Mountain 12:00 a.m. W rithe

9:30 p.m. F atal Error 10:30 p.m. V iolent Violet 11:30 p.m. S hehehe 12:30 a.m. O xystar 10:15 p.m. K IT 11:00 p.m. K haliko 12:00 a.m. S chmooze

The Roadhouse (21+) 10:00 p.m. S ick Papa 11:00 p.m. I nvisible Machine 12:00 a.m. J ohnny Falloon 1:00 a.m. R egulator

Clarke’s Collective (18+*) 10:15 p.m. E uclid 11:45 p.m. M aupas

Union Fare (All Ages)

8:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m. I shues, Indigo Sound, Selector JiiG, SHAKTi SOUND, blankwav, Dread, DJ London, Clarkia

Dead Beat Club (All Ages)

10:00 p.m. W oah Nelly 11:00 p.m. C razier 12:00 a.m. N icholas Mallis & the Borealis

Duke’s & Dottie’s (18+*)

9:00 p.m. W ill Slater & the 53 10:00 p.m. T ristan Tritt 11:15 p.m. L ine Dancing with Grace Mercer 11:45 p.m. L ate Night DJ

Flicker Theatre & Bar (18+*) 10:00 p.m. D erby 11:00 p.m. M ax’s Fable 12:00 a.m. N ightout 1:00 a.m. O bscurity

40 Watt Club (18+*)

10:00 p.m. L ouie Larceny & Ben Hackett 10:15 p.m. H effner 11:10 p.m. S cattrbrain 12:00 a.m. W ieuca

Georgia Theatre (18+*)

Saturday 6/27  12–10 p.m. Artist Market (Washington Street between Hull and Lumpkin) FREE!  10:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. KidsFest (Washington Street between Lumpkin and College) FREE!  1–3 p.m. KidsFest Dance Party with DJ Mahogany (Georgia Theatre) FREE!  11 a.m.–3 p.m. Gospel Stage Performances with Moccasin Gap, The Solstice Sisters, Jalen Eberhardt, Reverend Dr. Justin Barbour, Nations Singers, The Shang Hull Event Dancers Youth Group with the Hill Chapel Vision of Praise Dance Youth Group, Marco and Friends and YMCA Kids Choir (Live Wire Athens) FREE!

Wicked Weed Main Stage (All Ages)

8:00 p.m. R ick Fowler Band 9:00 p.m. L illy Hiatt

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

12:00 p.m. G arden Variety 1:05 p.m. T IKICA & the TLC Band 2:10 p.m. K arma Kat

3:15 p.m. D angfly!

4:15 p.m. T repid 5:20 p.m. T ropical Breeze Steel Band 6:35 p.m. O rquesta MaCuba 7:50 p.m. B arnhouse 9:00 p.m. P erpetual Groove

Hull Street Stage (All Ages)

12:35 p.m. F ull On Monet 1:40 p.m. R ubber Udder 2:40 p.m. F arin 2:50 p.m. A fter Hourz 3:45 p.m. T he Falling Spikes 4:50 p.m. C hairs 6:05 p.m. D oc Whitlock & the Aquanauts 7:15 p.m. A lien Funk Academy 8:25 p.m. A nnie Leeth

KidsFest Stage (All Ages)

10:30 a.m. R ebecca Sunshine Band 11:30 a.m. M erit Music Academy 12:30 p.m. G eorgia Children’s Chorus 1:00 p.m. (Break) 2:30 p.m. O conee Music 3:30 p.m. A dam Lowe 4:30 p.m. C arbon Harry 5:30 p.m. N uçi’s Space Camp Amped 6:30 p.m. 3 8 Strings

Ciné (All Ages)

10:00 p.m. T ommygun 11:00 p.m. V ansplainer 12:00 a.m. T he Dictatortots

Clarke’s Collective (18+*)

The Globe (All Ages)

8:00 p.m. F olie à Cinq 9:00 p.m. T rio Metro with Dr. Tony McCutchen

Hendershot’s (All Ages) 9:30 p.m. E ight Pictures 10:30 p.m. Y es Dear 11:30 p.m. S eventh Son

Live Wire (18+*)

10:00 p.m. M odern Ghosts 10:45 p.m. P hantom Dan 11:30 p.m. T aj Motel Trio 12:15 a.m. B eau Anderson

Nowhere Bar (21+)

8:30 p.m. T he Arcs 9:30 p.m. B land Halen 10:30 p.m. T . Hardy Morris 11:30 p.m. J ulia Barfield

Paloma Park (All Ages)

10:15 p.m. T he Wraps 12:00 a.m. T he Connor Lawley Band

The Roadhouse (21+)

10:00 p.m. S piritless 11:00 p.m. F ieldHockey 12:00 a.m. E stimated Principles 1:00 a.m. I ntension

Union Fare (All Ages)

10:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m. D J sets by Jaime, Tribe & Banjo

10:15 p.m. E lijah Nolasco 11:45 p.m. T he Midknighters

Sunday 6/28

Dead Beat Club (All Ages)

 12:30–8 p.m. Artist Market (Washington Street between Hull and Lumpkin) FREE!  12:30–4:30 p.m. KidsFest (Washington Street between Lumpkin and College) FREE!

8:30 p.m. P riestess Choir 9:30 p.m. K lezmer Local 42 11:00 p.m. P ylon Reenactment Society

Flicker Theatre & Bar (18+*) 10:30 p.m. T ennis Courts 11:25 p.m. P enny Loafer 12:20 a.m. D inner Time 1:15 a.m. R auncher

Wicked Weed Main Stage (All Ages)

10:00 p.m. E lf Power 10:45 p.m. K evn Kinney 12:00 a.m. S lightly Famous Somebodies

12:30 p.m. J ohn Kiran Fernandes/ Arianna Petersen/ Franklin Russell Trio 1:25 p.m. C heck The Signs 2:15 p.m. T he Lanes 3:10 p.m. C assie Chanel 4:15 p.m. R agga Lox & the Dub Vybrations Band 5:30 p.m. F unk You 7:00 p.m. S tephen Day

Georgia Theatre (18+*)

Hull Street Stage (All Ages)

40 Watt Club (18+*)

9:00 p.m. C annon Rogers 10:00 p.m. B loodkin 11:30 p.m. S tarboro

Georgia Theatre Rooftop (18+*) 9:00 p.m. D J ChiefRocka 10:00 p.m. N everjaded 10:20 p.m. S xvxnt 10:40 p.m. I shues 11:05 p.m. A lfred Banks 11:30 p.m. S tella Groove 11:50 p.m. K xng Blanco 12:15 a.m. Q uanny Peso 12:30 a.m. D J ChiefRocka

12:55 p.m. R am Jam Winner Antrona 1:50 p.m. S outhern Gothic 2:45 p.m. H owdy, Fellow Traveler!

3:40 p.m. T yler Ramsey & Carl Broemel 4:50 p.m. D avid Ryan Harris 6:20 p.m. D rí and the Violence

KidsFest Stage (All Ages)

12:30 p.m. C edar/Central Orchestra Ensemble 1:30 p.m. D anceFX 2:30 p.m. P ROPULSION 3:30 p.m. T onalli Danza Folklórica Mexicana *Under 18 OK with a parent/guardian

music

feature

AthFest Performer Listings Thursday 6/25

FLORENCE CARDIGAN Mixing funk and jazz into indie rock. (7 p.m., 40 Watt Club) TEN HIGH Country project featuring members of Hotel Fiction. (7 p.m., 40 Watt Club) SUNSPUR Five-​piece rock band. (7 p.m., 40 Watt Club) SWEET TEA PEDIGREE Local Southern rock band. (7 p.m., 40 Watt Club)

Friday 6/26 ANDREA DEMARCUS Songwriter and multi-​instrumentalist of Cicada Rhythm. (8 p.m., The Globe) BAYOU PRINCESS Weirdo hyper dance rock. (7:15 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) BLANKWAV, CLARKIA, DJ LONDON, DREAD, INDIGO SOUND, ISHUES, SELECTOR JIIG, SHAKTI SOUND (8 p.m.–2 a.m., Union Fare) BOOTY BOYZ DJ trio leads a silent disco. (9 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) COMA THERAPY Dark post-​punk influenced by no wave.

(8:25 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) CRAZIER Indie rock anti-​cowboy music. (11 p.m., Dead Beat Club) DASH RIP ROCK New Orleans trio known for roots rock.

(11:45 p.m., Georgia Theatre) DEL ROSCOE Gothic, indie Americana band. (10 p.m., Hendershot’s) DERBY Premier corporate egg punk affiliates. (10 p.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) EUCLID Alt rock blending grunge, blues and jazz. (10:15 p.m., Clarke’s Collective) FATAL ERROR Punk rock band. (9:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) FREEMAN LEVERETT Dreamy, hypnotic and danceable songs. (10:15 p.m., The Globe) FRUTE Psych groove collective out of Atlanta. (10:30 p.m., Live Wire) FULL MOON SCHOOL OF MUSIC Three bands composed of participants from the camp program. (6 p.m., 7 p.m. & 8 p.m., KidsFest Stage) GRACER MERCER Leading line dances. (11:15 p.m., Duke’s and Dottie’s) HEFFNER Indie rock influenced by power pop ’70s glam.

(10:15 p.m., 40 Watt Club) HIDING PLACES Alternative folk project based in Brooklyn. (6:40 p.m., WW Main Stage) IMPROVEMENT MOVEMENT Atlanta psychedelic pop band. (9 p.m., WW Main Stage) INVISIBLE MACHINE Incorporating elements of improv, jazz and noise. (11 p.m., The Roadhouse) JACKIE HALES Singer-​songwriter and Your Ex’s Pets frontwoman. (7:15 p.m., The Globe) JOHNNY DELAWARE Folk rock songwriter. (11:15 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) JOHNNY FALLOON Something that feels like it might fall apart or ignite at any second. (12 a.m., The Roadhouse) JULIA BARFIELD Singer-​songwriter with roots in the North Georgia mountains. (9:30 p.m., The Globe) KENOSHA KID Improvisational brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles. (5 p.m., WW Main Stage) KHALIKO Atlanta-​based alternative groove-​rock band. (11 p.m., Paloma Park) KIT Kaleidoscopic rock band led by Catt Malonius. (10:15 p.m., Paloma Park) LATE NIGHT DJ Keeping the dancing going. (11:45 p.m., Duke’s and Dottie’s) LILLY HIATT Raw alt-​rock energy with confessional songwriting. (9 p.m., Georgia Theatre) LOUIE LARCENY & BEN HACKETT Lyrical hip hop with multi-​instrumentalist producer. (10 p.m., 40 Watt Club) MAUPAS Psychedelic soul-​rock band. (11:45 p.m., Clarke’s Collective) MAX’S FABLE Balancing the desire to stay young with the pull of growing up. (11 p.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) MICHAEL JOE WHITE Songwriter with a personal vendetta against the sweet potato. (8:45 p.m., The Globe) MK BARNES Singer-​songwriter with Southern nostalgia.

(11 p.m., Hendershot’s) MOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Hunter Morris’ folk rock project.

(9:45 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) NICHOLAS MALLIS & THE BOREALIS Synth-​pop claiming an array of supposed corporate sponsors. (12 a.m., Dead Beat Club) NIGHTOUT Dusky monastic plur; asks you to dance. (12 a.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar)

NOISE MOUNTAIN Inspired by Midwestern alternative rock. (11 p.m., Ciné) OBSCURITY Local digital hardcore duo. (1 a.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) OXYSTAR Stoner metal mixed with space rock. (12:30 a.m., Nowhere Bar) THE PINK STONES Cosmic country with a twangy charm.

(10:15 p.m., Georgia Theatre) RACECAR 44 Indie band featuring members of Picture Show. (6:15 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) REGULATOR Music for mounting up. (1 a.m., The Roadhouse) RICK FOWLER BAND Original yet familiar appeal to fans of ’60s and ’70s rock. (8 p.m., Georgia Theatre) SACRED BULL Post-​metal known for meditative melodies and deliberate cacophony. (10 p.m., Ciné) SAMURAI TEST DRIVE Five-​piece jazz fusion band. (12 a.m., Live Wire) SCATTRBRAIN Alt-​rock/punk project of Atlanta artist GRIP. (11:10 p.m., 40 Watt Club) SCHMOOZE Blending ’90s grunge with modern punk and indie rock. (12 a.m., Paloma Park) SHEHEHE Old-​school punk and arena rock. (11:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) SICK PAPA Featuring members across the punk scene.

(10 p.m., The Roadhouse) SPENCER THOMAS Soft rock artist and member of Futurebirds. (8:30 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) SUPERSTAR Rock duo made up of Aaron White and Bennett Evans. (7:45 p.m., WW Main Stage) TRISTAN TRITT Songwriter with a hard rock attitude. (10 p.m., Duke’s and Dottie’s) TRYCOH Brawny rock veering into desolation. (5:25 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) VIOLENT VIOLET Loud garage punk outfit. (10:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) VIV AND THE THINGS Alternative country noise for sweetie pies. (5:50 p.m., WW Main Stage) WILL SLATER & THE 53 Country artist from Commerce.

(9 p.m., Duke’s and Dottie’s) WIEUCA Experimental outfit fusing rock, psychedelia and trip hop. (12 a.m., 40 Watt Club) WRITHE Extra filthy stoner grunge. (12 a.m., Ciné) WOAH NELLY Blending punk, prog, new wave and indie rock. (10 p.m., Dead Beat Club) YOUR EX’S PETS Fronted by Jackie Hales with harmonies and layers. (9 p.m., Hendershot’s)

Saturday 6/27 ADAM LOWE Juggling, magic and comedy. (3:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) AFTER HOURZ Combines eras of R&B, soul, hip hop and blues. (2:50 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) ALFRED BANKS Grammy Award-​nominated New Orleans rapper. (11:05 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) ALIEN FUNK ACADEMY Power trio playing high intensity rock and galactic funk. (7:15 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) ANNIE LEETH Violinist loops drums, synths and strings.

(8:25 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) THE ARCS “Athens finest power pop purveyors.” (8:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) BARNHOUSE Southern rock jam band that thrives on improv. (7:50 p.m., WW Main Stage) BEAU ANDERSON Atlanta-​based maker of loud noises.

(12:15 a.m., Live Wire) BLAND HALEN Experimental acoustic musician. (9:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) BLOODKIN Gritty rock and roll group. (10 p.m., Georgia Theatre) CARBON HARRY Quartet of young musical prodigies.

(4:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) CANNON ROGERS Alt-​country songwriter, guitarist and pedal steel. (9 p.m., Georgia Theatre) CHAIRS Shoegaze and post-​punk influences. (4:50 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) THE CONNOR LAWLEY BAND Soulful echoes of classic rock and country. (12 a.m., Paloma Park) DANGFLY! Athens all-​star lineup of musicians. (3:15 p.m., WW Main Stage) THE DICTATORTOTS Local chaos-​cultivators trash the night with post-​grunge grooves. (12 a.m., Ciné) DINNER TIME Influenced by garage rock and saccharine ’60s melodies. (12:20 a.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) DJ CHIEFROCKA A driving force in the hip-​hop scene. (9 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop)

DJ SETS BY JAIME, TRIBE & BANJO (10 p.m.–2 a.m., Union Fare) DOC WHITLOCK & THE AQUANAUTS A deep dive where the currents of rock, funk and alt collide. (6:05 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) EIGHT PICTURES Like if Pixies took Morrissey’s lunch money. (9:30 p.m., Hendershot’s) ELF POWER Longtime fixture playing crisp, melodic psych-​pop. (10 p.m., 40 Watt Club) ELIJAH NOLASCO Honduran American artist incorporating both Spanish and English influences. (10:15 p.m., Clarke’s Collective) ESTIMATED PRINCIPLES Alternative rock from Augusta.

(12 a.m., The Roadhouse) THE FALLING SPIKES Loud, dumb rock and roll. (3:45 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) FARIN Dancehall vocalist supreme. (2:40 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) FIELDHOCKEY Post-​hardcore act from Chattanooga, TN. (11 p.m., The Roadhouse) FOLIE À CINQ Playing a mix of French chansons, jazzy tunes and originals. (8 p.m., The Globe) FULL ON MONET Pop-​punk band putting their own spin on classic songs. (12:35 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) GARDEN VARIETY Funk band performing a blend of jazz, soul and rock. (12 p.m., WW Main Stage) GEORGIA CHILDREN’S CHORUS Nonprofit youth chorus grades 2–12. (12:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) INTENSION Alternative rock band based out of Atlanta. (1 a.m., The Roadhouse) ISHUES Hip-​hop artist with an Athens Music Walk of Fame plaque. (10:40 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) JALEN EBERHARDT Musician experienced performing in churches. (12:15 p.m., Live Wire) JULIA BARFIELD Singer-​songwriter with roots in the North Georgia mountains. (11:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) KARMA KAT They’ll rock your whiskers off! (2:10 p.m., WW Main Stage) KEVN KINNEY Lead singer of the Atlanta rock band Drivin N Cryin. (10:45 p.m., 40 Watt Club) KLEZMER LOCAL 42 Specializing in Jewish and Romani music. (9:30 p.m., Dead Beat Club) KXNG BLANCO Leading the wave of contemporary hip hop and R&B. (11:50 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) MARCO AND FRIENDS An uplifting gospel performance.

(1:45 p.m., Live Wire) MERIT MUSIC ACADEMY Performances from members of Merit Music Academy. (11:30 a.m., KidsFest Stage) THE MIDKNIGHTERS High-​energy rock band with a powerful live presence. (11:45 p.m., Clarke’s Collective) MOCCASIN GAP Bluegrass and country band. (11 a.m., Live Wire) MODERN GHOSTS Punk band singing about the weight of everyday life. (10 p.m., Live Wire) NATIONS SINGERS Multigenerational, multicultural and spirit-​filled. (1:05 p.m., Live Wire) NEVERJADED Hip-​hop and soul producer/artist. (10 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) NUÇI’S SPACE CAMP AMPED BAND Middle and high school musicians. (5:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) OCONEE MUSIC Performances from children members.

(2:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) ORQUESTA MACUBA Atlanta-​based Latin orchestra.

(6:35 p.m., WW Main Stage) PENNY LOAFER Grunge-​tinged pop with sweet yet vicious compositions. (11:25 p.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) PERPETUAL GROOVE Mixes traditional Southern rock, funk, jazzy improvisation and synth loops. (9 p.m., WW Main Stage) PHANTOM DAN Emo punk rock with nostalgic vibes.

(10:45 p.m., Live Wire) PRIESTESS CHOIR Women devoted to song as ritual, remembrance and celebration. (8:30 p.m., Dead Beat Club) PYLON REENACTMENT SOCIETY Vanessa Briscoe Hay and an all-​star cast of locals. (11 p.m., Dead Beat Club) QUANNY PESO Hip-​hop artist leaning into trap rap.

(12:15 a.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) RAUNCHER Electronic duo blending aggressive bass and experimental sampling. (1:15 a.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) REBECCA SUNSHINE BAND Fun, interactive music invites kids to play along. (10:30 a.m., KidsFest Stage) REVEREND DR. JUSTIN BARBOUR Local gospel musician. (12:30 p.m., Live Wire) RUBBER UDDER Weirdo experimental acid punk/noise-​ grunge thing. (1:40 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage)

SEVENTH SON Alternative rock band. (11:30 p.m., Hendershot’s) SLIGHTLY FAMOUS SOMEBODIES Composed of folks who have worked in the music and show businesses.

(12 a.m., 40 Watt Club) THE SOLSTICE SISTERS Old-​time country ballads and traditional folk. (11:30 a.m., Live Wire) SPIRITLESS Metalcore with a crushing, more aggressive style. (10 p.m., The Roadhouse) STARBORO Country/rock/post-​Americana project. (11:30 p.m., Georgia Theatre) STELLA GROOVE Singer spanning soul, R&B, country and rock. (11:30 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) SXVXNT Lyrical rapper from Charleston, SC. (10:20 p.m., Georgia Theatre Rooftop) THE TAJ MOTEL TRIO Playing loud and fast ska-​punk since 1998. (11:30 p.m., Live Wire) TENNIS COURTS Power-​pop glitz and alt-​country gloom.

(10:30 p.m., Flicker Theatre & Bar) T. HARDY MORRIS Singer-​songwriter plays twangy, reflective folk rock. (10:30 p.m., Nowhere Bar) 38 STRINGS Multi-​generational acoustic folk music.

(6:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) TIKICA & THE TLC BAND Dynamic soul from all-​female quartet. (1:05 p.m., WW Main Stage) TOMMYGUN Punk rock band. (10 p.m., Ciné) TREPID Shoegaze-​inspired band with a hint of grunge.

(4:15 p.m., WW Main Stage) TRIO METRO WITH DR. TONY MCCUTCHEN Trio plays jazz standards and an array of more contemporary covers. (9 p.m., The Globe) TROPICAL BREEZE STEEL BAND Formed over 30 years ago by Dr. Tony “Doc” McCutchen. (5:20 p.m., WW Main Stage) VANSPLAINER Heavy rock spinoff project from The Dictatortots. (11 p.m., Ciné) THE WRAPS Quartet combining blues, hard rock, pop and jazz sounds. (10:15 p.m., Paloma Park) YES DEAR Influenced by shoegaze, slowcore and ’90s alternative. (10:30 p.m., Hendershot’s) YMCA KIDS CHOIR Children from the Y’s choir program perform. (2:30 p.m., Live Wire)

Sunday 6/28 CASSIE CHANTEL Hip-​hop artist beyond fixed definitions of genre. (3:10 p.m., WW Main Stage) CEDAR/CENTRAL ORCHESTRA ENSEMBLE After-​ school high school ensembles. (12:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) CHECK THE SIGNS Uplifting local family band. (1:25 p.m., WW Main Stage) DANCEFX Nonprofit dance organization. (1:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) DAVID RYAN HARRIS First rose to fame as front man for the Atlanta rock band Follow For Now. (4:50 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) DRÍ AND THE VIOLENCE Project of singer and percussionist Adriana Thomas. (6:20 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) FUNK YOU Intoxicating blend of modern and vintage sounds. (5:30 p.m., WW Main Stage) HOWDY, FELLOW TRAVELER! Folk songs about the moment. (2:45 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) JOHN KIRAN FERNANDES/ ARIANNA PETERSEN/ FRANKLIN RUSSELL TRIO Clarinet, cello and baritone saxophone trio. (12:30 p.m., WW Main Stage) THE LANES The world’s heaviest easy listening band.

(2:15 p.m., WW Main Stage) PROPULSION No info available. (2:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) RAGGA LOX & THE DUB VYBRATIONS BAND Jamaican musician and eloquent lyricist. (4:15 p.m., WW Main Stage) RAM JAM WINNER ANTRONA Post punk noise rock.

(12:55 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) SOUTHERN GOTHIC Southern rock, alt-​country and Americana outfit. (1:50 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage) STEPHEN DAY Crooner inspired by soul, country and pop. (7 p.m., WW Main Stage) TONALLI DANZA FOLKLÓRICA MEXICANA Traditional Mexican dance group. (3:30 p.m., KidsFest Stage) TYLER RAMSEY & CARL BROEMEL Asheville, NC-​ based musician Tyler Ramsey and My Morning Jacket guitarist Carl Broemel. (3:40 p.m., HS Hull Street Stage)

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arts & culture

calendar picks

COMEDY | THU, JUNE 25

people the opportunity not only to buy directly from them, but also connect with them in person. This event is open to the public. [MB]

Live Wire • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $11 (w/ AthFest wristband), $16

EVENTS | JUNE 26–28

It’s Nateball’s Funny Bone Comedy Show Nate Wright, aka Nateball Y’all, is ringing in AthFest again this year with a show featuring a variety of comedians local to Athens and the surrounding areas. Wright started the show a few years ago as an AthFest-​affiliated event with the help of festival board members Troy Aubrey and Mary Joyce. His aim was to fit as many comedians as possible into one show that would highlight multiple levels of experience, as

M3 Yoga & Pilates

well as a variety of comedic styles and personalities. The headliner this year is Drew Morgan, and the show will also feature Adam Beahan, Allen Teems, Big Al, Jalen Jones, Lanny Farmer, Miles Bunch, Nancy Heiges, Tyler Roberts, Chad Forehand and Feddun. Nateball and Carmen Finocchio will host. [Mary Beth Bryan] MUSIC | THU, JUNE 25

AthFest Kickoff Party

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

Tank Touring, the live music services company of former Athens resident Jameson Tankersley (Jameson Tank), is hosting AthFest’s official pre-​party, teeing up the city for a weekend full of live music.

The show will include four local bands. First on the bill is Southern rock band Sweet Tea Pedigree. Next is indie-​rock band Florence Cardigan, whose sound incorporates touches of funk, punk and jazz. Third is Sunspur, the new country-​influenced project of Aaron Daugherty that also features other members of local favorite Hotel Fiction. The final act is rock band Ten High. [MB] ART | JUNE 26–27

Athens Art Book Fair Athenaeum • 4 p.m. • FREE!

Athens Art Book Fair is returning for its fourth year, adding an element of the visual arts to AthFest. The event is a print and zine fair that will platform the work of dozens of regional book artists, printmakers and publishers. Attendees are welcome to browse and purchase the works on display, which will include artist books, fine art prints, posters/broadsides, zines and more, offering a more affordable way to collect local art in a variety of styles and mediums.

Dozens of artists and publishers will be representing their work at the event, giving

M3 Yoga & Pilates Events Locations Vary • Times Vary • FREE!

Yoga and hot pilates studio M3 is hosting several donations-​based classes this AthFest weekend. The first of these is Flow for the Arts, which will be held at the Five Points location June 26 from 5:30–6:30 p.m. This is a hatha yoga class that will emphasize intentional movement, muscle engagement and strong alignment. On June 27 from 8:30–9:30 a.m., the Boulevard Moon Studio will host Kids Yoga Fun Flow, a family-​friendly class also taught in the hatha tradition. Finally, the Five Points location will host Sweat with Purpose: Hot Pilates for a Cause on June 28 from 10–11 a.m. This class will be held in a heated room and will teach low-​impact, high-​intensity movements to build strength, endurance and core stability.

AthFest wristband holders get in free, but donations benefiting AthFest Educates are appreciated. Participants are encouraged to create an online M3 Yoga & Hot Pilates account to reserve their spots. [MB]

ABOUT READY-MADE MEALS FOR THE 4TH OF JULY CHOOSE LOCAL FLAVOR FROM EPTING EVENTS FOR YOUR FAMILY BBQ BEEF SHORT RIBS COLLARD GREENS MAC & CHEESE SMOKED BOSTON BUTT HELLO DOLLY BARS CHEESE BISCUITS

ORDER YOUR MEAL BY JULY 1ST FOR LOCAL PICK UP BY JULY 3RD WWW.AGOODSTORY.COM

LITERATURE | SAT, JUNE 27

Athens Out Loud Live Wire • 4 p.m. • FREE!

Athens Poet Laureate Amanda Dzmianski is hosting a special AthFest event created to champion the literary arts by combining powerful local voices with music.

For Athens Out Loud, a variety of local poets will read their works aloud with musical accompaniment from Seth Hendershot and Erik Olson. Participating poets include Dziamanski, Beto Cacao, Alex Johns, ellie swensson, former Athens poet laureate Mikhayla Robinson Smith, J.R. Barner, AJ Steele, da Arsonist, Grey, Amelia Orr and Life the Griot. The event will take place on the outdoor stage of Live Wire. [MB] FILM | SAT, JUNE 27

Screen on the Green

Costa Building Park • 11 p.m. • FREE!

Athens Film Festival, an organization created to elevate local films by connecting filmmakers with an engaged audience, is hosting a late-​night AthFest screening of The Elephant 6 Recording Co. Released in 2022, this documentary feature film is about the indie-​rock music collective of the same name. Elephant 6 was active primarily in the 1990s and included local bands like Neutral Milk Hotel, The Olivia Tremor Control, The Apples in Stereo, Elf Power, of Montreal, Dressy Bessy, Great Lakes and more. Though a “local” collective, Elephant 6 was a key part of the wider alternative and indie rock movement of the ’90s, and its members bonded over their DIY methods and resistance to being defined. This event is open to the public with limited seating. [MB] f

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Congratulations to

Runway Cowork Beechwood June Beautiful Business of the Month!

NOMINATE A BUSINESS

SHOP LOCAL • EAT LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL A Message From the ACCGov Economic Development Department

OUTDOOR CHECKLIST Daily use of sunscreen can reduce your risk of skin cancer by 50% Use SPF 30+ sunscreen every day and reapply every 2 hours (even when it’s cloudy and regardless of your skin tone).

FIGHTING

cancer LOCALLY

Wear sunglasses. Eyes can get sunburned too.

Use a chapstick with SPF. Lips can get sunburned too.

BONUS INFO: HPV VACCINATIONS CAN BEGIN AT AGE 9 AND BE GIVEN UP TO AGE 45 IN MALES AND FEMALES. ASK YOUR DOCTOR IF HPV VACCINATION IS RIGHT FOR YOU.

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

OLLI FEST

July 11, 10:00AM-1:00PM River’s Crossing

Find out more about OLLI, a dynamic learning and social organization for adults 50+ • 300+ Classes • Lunch & Learns • Travel Adventures • Shared Interest Groups • Social Events

Drawing for 2 FREE MEMBERSHIPS!

River’s Crossing, 850 College Station Road, Athens. GA 30602 OLLI@UGA is one of 124 Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes of The Bernard Osher Foundation, each affilated with a college or university across the country. OLLI@UGA maintains a strong 1,000+ membership.

olli.uga.edu

River’s Crossing, 850 College Station Rd, Athens GA 30602 | (706) 542-7715

live music calendar Tuesday 23

The Classic Center 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $76– 413.50. www.classiccenter.com VINCE GILL Grammy Award-​winning modern country musician.

Daily Groceries Co-​op 6–7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ dailycoop TUESDAY TUNES AT DAILY Rotating local musicians play stripped down sets.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com GRINDCORE SHIT PATROL Local two-​piece grindcore band.

DIALS DIALS DIALS Richmond, VA-​based jungle/experimental project.

NEAT FREAK 2 The return?

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

Wednesday 24 585 Barber St. Summer Sunset Music Series. 7–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.treehousekidandcraft.com THE SPEAX Blues and psychedelic rock-​influenced power trio who met through Nuçis Space’s Camp Amped program.

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

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

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

FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket.net FOLIE À CINQ Playing a mix of French chansons, jazzy tunes, and

originals by Lavon Smith, accompanied on guitars, accordion, and double bass. (6 p.m.)

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

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga GHOSTWRITER Musical project from Austin, TX that melds influences from country-​blues to post-​ punk and has opened for acts like Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds and T-​Model Ford.

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.

The Roadhouse 9 p.m. $5. www.instagram.com/road​ houseathens CHALICE D-​beat/crust punk band from Melbourne, FL. DRES CODE Hardcore punk from Murfreesboro, TN. CRYING FORM Local hardcore punk trio.

TOMMYGUN Athens punk band.

ARMS DEALER Welcome to the gun show punks.

Thursday 25 Athentic Brewing Co. Blues on Tap. 7–9 p.m. www.athentic​ brewing.com THE ORIGINAL SCREW TOPS Blues jam for musicians, dancers and music lovers every fourth Thursday.

Dead Beat Club 8:30 p.m. $10. www.deadbeatathens. com TRAUMA FAMILY Gothic Americana from Atlanta featuring sidewise honky tonk and upbeat bummers.

SKIRR Jazzy post-​rock band.

NACKASHI GROUP Improvisational instrumental trio featuring Jay Nackashi, George Davison and Brandon McDearis.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com SCHMOOZE Alternative rock band from Athens with a sound blending ’90s grunge with modern punk and indie rock influences.

OUTSIDE DOG Punk rock from Nashville, TN. WOMEN IN STEM Indie rock girl trio with a power complex and lots of love.

The Globe 7:30–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ globe.athens MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-​HOTS Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.

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

Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga BLUES JAM Bring an instrument and join host Big C and The Moonshynes for an open blues jam. The house band includes Scott Nicholson, Derek Warren, Brent Davenport and Bo Hembree.

The Roadhouse 10 p.m. www.instagram.com/road​ houseathens POLAR WAVES Alternative and punk rock band led by singer-​songwriter Julio Duran.

Friday 26 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. 6–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com THE LENDERS Local folk band.

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

VFW Post 2872 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/vfwpost2872 RAMBLIN’ COUNTRY BAND Georgia-​based band playing country, western and rock classics.

Saturday 27 Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com ETHAN MULLINAX Local indie singer-​songwriter.

Hendershot’s Slush Fund 17th Annual Day Party.

12:30 p.m. www.hendershots​ athens.com PEACE AT HOME Ryan Flanagan’s alt-​rock/Americana one-​man band.

PARKER GISPERT Hometown solo performance from the frontman of Nashville-​based rock trio The Whigs.

THAYER SARRANO Hazy shoegaze-​inspired songwriter whose sound is described as a “Southern-​psych dreamland.”

THE LADIES OF… Glam and power pop-​infused rock and roll featuring singer James Hall.

Low Yo Yo Hooker Vision Presents. 10 p.m.

FREE! www.instagram.com/lowyoyo​ stuffathensga NIGHT SKY BODY Ambient experimental project based in Murfreesboro, TN. LEA LEA Athens-​based secret bedroom pop.

SPACE BROTHER Electronic-​and hip-​hop-​influenced producer.

No. 3 Railroad Street 6 p.m. www.3railroad.org MARION MONTGOMERY & GLYN DENHAM Bluesy local acoustic folk duo.

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

Southeast Clarke Park Star Spangled Classic. 6 p.m. (event), 7 p.m. (music), 9:30 p.m. (fireworks). FREE! www.accgov.com/ fireworks THE ORIGINAL SPLITZ BAND Part ’70s funk and disco flavor, a dash of old-school and contemporary R&B, and a guaranteed good time.

Southern Drawl Bar & Grille 6–9 p.m. www.southerndrawlbarand​ grille.com CASEY KING Former member of Holman Autry Band performs solo.

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

Sunday 28 Athentic Brewing Co. 5–7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com BENNIE AND THE JONES Greg Benson’s and Tommy Jones’ folk-​ leaning covers of hits from the ’60s–’80s.

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

Tuesday 30 Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com EDDIE HALFASS Self-​claimed as Athens’ 483rd best band.

Daily Groceries Co-​op 6–7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ dailycoop TUESDAY TUNES AT DAILY Rotating local musicians play stripped down sets.

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.”

Wednesday 1 Athentic Brewing Co. 6:30–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com SONGWRITERS ANONYMOUS Featuring several songwriters in the round.

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

Hendershot’s Classic City Vintage Guitars Presents.

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

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

Down the Line 7/02 Cam Girl, Music Hates You, Noise Mountain (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 7/02 Erik Olson Trio (Dead Beat Club) 7/03 Birdleaf, Florence Cardigan, Bohemian Mayday (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 7/03 Cody White and the Easy Ride, Larry’s Homework (Dead Beat Club) f

All proceeds will benefit The Cottage in providing free services to survivors of sexual violence and child abuse.

Sexual Assault Center and Children's Advocacy Center

VOTED AN ATHENS’ FAVORITE TATTOO STUDIO 2011–2020

285 W. Washington St.

Athens, GA 30601

706.208.9588 www.painandwonder.com JUNE 24, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Tuesday 23

event calendar

CLASSES: Boots & Brews Line Dancing (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn the line dancing basics from host Lindsay before the floor opens for social dancing. Fourth Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.athentic​ brewing.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: 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: Who Would Win? (Bogart Library) Learn about dinosaurs and polar bears, enjoy an indoor “snow” fight and watch a creature feature film. 2 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart MEETINGS: Athens Photography Guild (Lyndon House Arts Center) Several photographers will provide live demonstrations of photographic equipment and software applications. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athensphotographyguild.wordpress. com SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 24 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: Hiking Basics Presentation (REI) Learn how to prepare for a day hike including what items to pack, where to explore local trails and how to practice Leave NO Trace principles. 6 p.m. FREE! www.rei. com EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net FILM: The Birdcage (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of the 1996 comedy drama film. 8 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia

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. 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.

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Works by Jeremy Long celebrate his 30 year anniversary in this exhibition. Through June.

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. • 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

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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: Mermaid Meet & Greet (Oconee County Library) Enjoy a sea themed party, crafts and a visit from the mermaid Ariel. 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee LECTURES & LIT: RIP Book Club (Hendershot’s) Casual discussions about horror-​themed books, comics and graphic novels with rotating monthly picks. 5:30​​p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ripbookclub​ athens MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/FilmAthens

Thursday 25 ART: Closing Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Artist Tatiana Kiselyova’s exhibition “Inner Possum” will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tiny​ athgallery.com ART: Artist Talk (OCAF) Artists featured in the “Southworks” juried exhibition will discuss their works.

6 p.m. FREE! www.ocaf.com CLASSES: Improv for Dementia Care Partners (Flying Squid Comedy) Use improv to boost your communication skills, relieve stress

and connect with others. 2 p.m. $33. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com CLASSES: Ladies Only Line Dancing (Boutier Winery) Learn how to line dance with Amy. All skill levels welcome. 6:30–9 p.m. $5. www. boutierwinery.com 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 COMEDY: It’s Nateball’s Funny Bone (Live Wire) Standup showcase of local and regional comedians. 7 p.m. www.athfest.com/ athfest-​affiliate-​events GAMES: Dino Bingo (Bogart Library) Enjoy an afternoon of fun games and prizes with dinosaur themed games. All ages. 4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart 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 general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Butt Hutt) Test your general trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Athens’ Hardest Trivia Night (Nighthawks Lounge) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil.

7 p.m. www.nighthawkslounge.com KIDSTUFF: LEGO Builder’s Challenge (Oconee County Library) Drop in to complete challenges and earn prizes. Ages 5–12. Fourth Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

and Winslow Homer, 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.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) “AIR Group 2” features narrative printmaking works by Jo Anderson and jewelry pieces by Jordan Blackwell. Through June 27. • “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. Poetry/spoken word event Aug. 27, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Through Aug. 29. • A Pet Portrait Exhibition features works submitted by the public. Through Aug. 29. • “Excursions in Ukraine” features photographs Through Aug. 29. • “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. Through Aug. 29. • “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. Through May 1, 2027.

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

LECTURES & LIT: Across The Board Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome.

Fourth Thursdays, 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss Marble Hall Murders by Anthony Horowitz with the group. 5:30​​p.m.

FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart MEETINGS: Pencil Pushers Drink & Draw (Hendershot’s) Hang out and draw on the paper-​covered tables or bring your own sketchbook. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org SPORTS: World Cup Pregame (Terrapin Beer Co.) There will be BINGO and merch raffles. 3–9 p.m. www. terrapinbeer.com

Friday 26 ART: Free Sketch Friday (Porcelain and Decorative Arts Museum) Artists of all ages and skills can tour the museum then sketch items from the collections. All materials provided. 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. FREE! botgarden.uga.edu CLASSES: Flow for the Arts (M3Yoga Five Points) A hatha class emphasizing intentional movement, muscle engagement and strong alignment in benefit of AthFest Educates. 5:30 p.m. Donation suggested. www.athfest.com/athfest-​ affiliate-​events EVENTS: 10th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show (The Classic Center) Browse the wares of over two dozen independent dealers of all things geologic. June 26–27, 10

a.m.–6 p.m. June 28, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $10 (adults), FREE! (12 & under). www.classiccenter.com EVENTS: Athens Art Book Fair (The Athenaeum) Showcase of a variety of works on paper produced by dozens of artists and presses from the Southeast. June 26–27, 4​​–7 p.m.

FREE! www.athfest.com/athfest-​ affiliate-​events FILM: Movie Night (ACC Library) Screening of The Good Dinosaur as part of the summer reading series.

3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org 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 KIDSTUFF: Wondrous World of Polymers (Oconee County Library) Join Dr. Maurice Snook for a lesson on polymers. 11 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee 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 KIDSTUFF: Escape from Jurassic Park (Bogart Library) Crack the code on a dinosaur themed escape room. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart PERFORMANCE: Open Mic Night (Canopy Studio) A scaled-​down performance opportunity for creative expression. Sign-​up required.

8 p.m. www.canopystudio.org

Saturday 27 CLASSES: Animal Communication Workshop (Work.Shop) Find out what your animals hope to share as you learn how to send and receive messages telepathically. 11 a.m. $45. www.ancientsunsacademy.com COMEDY: Rapture Comedy Show (Sister Louisa’s Church Bar) Lineup of Southern-​based comedians. Last

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. Artist talks June 25 & 30, 6 p.m. 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.

TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) “Inner ’Possum” features works by Tatiana Kiselyova. Artist talk June 26, 6–9 p.m. Through June 28.

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) Artworks by Jack Burk will be on display through September 15. • In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, “Rebellious Art, Treasonous Artists” is on view in Room 103. Through December.

Saturdays, 9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/rapturecomedy_ EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers​ market.net EVENTS: Comer Community Market (The Perch) Browse flower and vegetable plant starts, baked goods, vegetables, honey, pottery, eggs, mushrooms and handmade items. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www.theperchcomer. com/farmers-​market EVENTS: 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: Art & Craft Supply Swap (ACC Library) Bring excess or no-​longer-​needed craft supplies and get new (to you) supplies. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org EVENTS: 10th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show (The Classic Center) Browse the wares of over two dozen independent dealers of all things geologic. June 26–27, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. June 28, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $10 (adults), FREE! (12 & under). www.classiccenter.com EVENTS: Athens Out Loud (Live Wire) Poetry readings hosted by Athens’ Poet Laureate accompanied by live music. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.athfest.com/athfest-​affiliate-​ events EVENTS: Athens Art Book Fair (The Athenaeum) Showcase of a variety of works on paper produced by dozens of artists and presses from the Southeast. June 26–27, 4​​–7 p.m.

FREE! www.athfest.com/athfest-​ affiliate-​events EVENTS: Star Spangled Classic (Southeast Clarke Park) There will be carnival rides, food trucks and music by The Original Splitz Band.

Fireworks launch at 9:30 p.m. from the ACC Tennis Center. 6–10 p.m.

FREE! www.accgov.com/fireworks FILM: Screen on the Green (Costa Building Park) Athens Film Festival presents a screening of the documentary The Elephant 6 Recording Co. 11 p.m. FREE! www.athfest. com/athfest-​affiliate-​events KIDSTUFF: Kids Yoga Fun Flow (M3Yoga Boulevard Moon) A hatha class focusing on simple, intentional poses in benefit of AthFest Educates. 8:30 a.m. Donation suggested. www.athfest.com/athfest-​ affiliate-​events KIDSTUFF: The Big Blue, Red, White & BBQ (Big Blue Marble Academy) The pre-​Fourth of July celebration will include a complimentary barbecue lunch, splash pad, high-​energy foam cannon, themed crafts and a photo booth.

10 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www. bbmacademy.com/location/athens KIDSTUFF: Family Day: Extra Ordinary (Georgia Museum of Art) Play gallery games, enjoy interactive storytime and create your own take-​ home project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org 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 KIDSTUFF: Escape from Jurassic Park (Bogart Library) Crack the code on a dinosaur themed escape room. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart

Sunday 28 ART: Together We Dazzle (Hendershot’s) Benefit for the Ehlers-​ Danlos Society featuring live music, original artwork and archival prints for sale. 3–7 p.m. www.christinajoy​ studio.com CLASSES: Sweat with Purpose (M3Yoga Five Points) A hatha class emphasizing intentional movement, muscle engagement and strong alignment in benefit of AthFest Educates. 10 a.m. Donation suggested. www.athfest.com/athfest-​affiliate-​ events COMEDY: Funny Femmes (The Globe) An all-​femme showcase featuring comedians from Athens and Atlanta. Fourth Sundays, 9 p.m. $10. www.globetavern.com

your desktop and keep important documents easy to find. 10 a.m.

FREE! www.athenslibrary.org EVENTS: American Red Cross Blood Drive (ACC Library) Donors of all blood types are encouraged to contribute. Registration required.

2–6 p.m. FREE! www.redcross​ blood.org FILM: Secret Spaced Out Movie Marathon (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of space-​themed movies from open to close. 4 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com GAMES: Chess and Community (ACC Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. Mondays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Nor-

EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy craft cocktails and a taco pop-​up from Don Carne with themed weeks, live music and dancing. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.livewireathens.com GAMES: 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: Volcano Madness (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Harli to learn how to craft an active volcano.

3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

285 W. Washington St Athens, GA 30601 706-549-7871 Ticket info at 40watt.com facebook.com/40wattclub @40WattAthens All Shows 18 and up • +$2 for Under 21

@40WattAthens

THURSDAY, JUNE 25TH • DOORS 7:00 PM

ATHFEST PRE-PARTY TANK TOURING PRESENTS: SWEET TEA PEDIGREE • FLORENCE CARDIGAN • TEN HIGH • SUN SPUR FRIDAY, JUNE 26TH • DOORS 9:00 PM

ATHFEST NIGHT ONE 10 PM – LOUIE LARCENY & BEN HACKETT 10:15 PM – HEFFNER 11:10 PM- SCATTRBRAIN 12 AM – WIEUCA SATURDAY, JUNE 27TH • DOORS 9:00 PM

ATHFEST NIGHT TWO 10 PM – ELF POWER 10:45 PM – KEVN KINNEY 12 AM – SLIGHTLY FAMOUS SOMEBODIES

Wednesday 1 The Star Spangled Classic will be held at Southeast Clarke Park on Saturday, June 27 from 6–10 p.m.

EVENTS: 10th Annual Athens Rock, Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show (The Classic Center) Browse the wares of over two dozen independent dealers of all things geologic. June 26–27, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. June 28, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. $10 (adults), FREE! (12 & under). www.classiccenter.com GAMES: Summer Scrabble Club (ACC Library) Family-​friendly gathering for Scrabble lover to play and win prizes. 3–5 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 PERFORMANCE: Afternoon Tea: A Drag Brunch (Athentic Brewing Co.) A high tea themed afternoon of drag entertainment. 12 p.m. $10 (show only). www.athenticbrewing. com SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Monday 29 ART: Mandala Workshop (Winterville Cultural Center) Nicole Bechill guides participants as they explore creativity and self-​discovery through mandala art. 10 a.m. $35. www.wintervillecenter.com CLASSES: Organizing Your Digital Space (ACC Library) Learn simple ways to sort your files, clean up

maltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett.

Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Pancho’s Tacos & Tequila) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccity​ triviaco KIDSTUFF: Superhero Meet and Greet (Bogart Library) Drop in to meet Black Panther, learn about Wakanda and create crafts. 1 p.m.

FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart KIDSTUFF: Midsommar Celebration (The Meadow Montessori Play Studio) Enjoy themed crafts, games, activities and snacks. Ages 5 & under. 3 p.m. $19. www. themeadowplaystudio.com

Tuesday 30 ART: Artist Talk (OCAF) Artists featured in the “Southworks” juried exhibition will discuss their works.

6 p.m. FREE! www.ocaf.com

EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco GAMES: 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: Meet & Greet Ms. Rachel (Oconee County Library) Enjoy storytime, dino themed crafts, photo ops and a dance party. 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/oconee f

JUNE 24, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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

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

Classifieds 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 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 (Commercial) Space For Rent. Glass frontage, Approx.

1750 Sq. Ft. 2812 Atlanta Hwy across from McDonalds. $2500.

Call or email Dale at 706-​224-​ 8933 or ddun265@aol.com for info.

REAL ESTATE (For Rent) Apartment, 5 Points. Daylighted, 1BR/1BA, basement apartment in home on quiet street. Separate entrance.

Non-​smoker. No pets. Utils. included. $875/mon. Available.

Text 706-​363-​2412.

REAL ESTATE (For Rent) Hair salon in Normaltown area. One chair only.

Contact jujujr0000@gmail.com for more information.

REAL ESTATE (Room for Rent) Room for rent w/private BA. Located in Watkinsville. $800/mon all inclusive. Graduate student preferred.

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

REAL ESTATE (Room for Rent) Room for rent in a unique house near Boulevard. $600/mon starting in August. 3 roommates in the alt/ music scene. All identities welcome. Text 317-​519-​4790.

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 (Financial) Bookkeeping for Athens nonprofits, small businesses & makers. QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor, now booking 2026. Locally kept. Text Sam 706386-0281. www.beeskneesbook​ keeping.com SERVICES (Health) HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING: Integrating herbalism, mindfulness and movement for a whole body approach.

706-​343-​3576, connect@cora​ rose​wellness.com, www.cora​rose​ wellness.com SERVICES (Health) JAMES HILTON HYPNOSIS: Smoking, vaping, exam

preparation and athletic performance enhancement. 678-​895-​ 4278, www.hiltonhypnosis.org SERVICES (Home & Garden) Scratching your head with all this poison ivy? We can help! Woman-​ Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible and native gardens for your school, home or business! 706-​395-​5321 SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi! I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in low-​ maintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity.

Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@gmail.com or call 631-​ 903-​4365.

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

CALL FOR ART (ACCGov) Professional artists are invited to submit qualifications to create a sculpture for Memorial Park pond. Art will be placed in or around the lower pond, one large sculpture or a series

ADOPT ME!

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

Buster(61142075)

Even though Buster’s a youngster, this smart boy already knows how to sit and walk on a leash. He can be shy at first, but once you start petting him he becomes a total sweetheart!

Robin (61099650)

Spend the summer splashing around with Robin! This scruffy senior loves being with people, but she’s a little possessive with her food, so she’s looking to be part of a single-dog family.

Firefly(61002601)

After some warming up, Firefly turns into a sweet friend who loves to follow you around. He’s been working on filling his coat back in at the shelter, but he’s ready to be adopted or fostered!

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

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

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

of smaller sculptures. Deadline to apply is Friday, July 24. www. accgov.com, tatiana.veneruso@ accgov.com 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 LIFE DRAWING (Winterville Cultural Center) Monthly afternoon life drawing sessions, every fourth Tuesday. Models scheduled represent the full spectrum of age, color, race and genders. Artists 18+ only. Registration and prepayment required. $20. www.drawathens.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/lyndon​ house SEEKING INSTRUCTORS (OCAF) Currently seeking instructors to teach children’s art classes in any medium for the upcoming school year. Submit a course proposal at www.ocaf.com/courses

Auditions 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 SPONGEBOB THE MUSICAL (Athens Creative Theatre) Seeking individuals for this comedy musical based on the classic cartoon. Auditions will include cold readings, a short prepared vocal selection and a movement section. Auditions held Aug. 26–28 at the Morton Theatre. act@accgov.com

Classes A COURSE IN MIRACLES (580 Tallassee Rd.) Heal your psychology and your life using simple instruction of high vibrational thought.

Sundays, 10–11:30 a.m. 770-2372354, www.unityathens.com ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 & up.

Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com

CLASSES, HIKES & PADDLES (Watson Mill State Park, Comer) The park offers a variety of events including firebuilding classes, various educational hikes including “Bridge History,” “Tree ID,” “Historic Mills” and more. Parking fee/ pass required for all events. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio.org, www.canopystudio.org/outreach/ scholarships CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-​person classes. Topics include Affordable Housing Info and Homebuyer Education Course. www.athens​ landtrust.org/classes-​events CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including ESL (Tuesdays and Thursdays), Knit Lits Knitting (Thursdays) and more.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly events including Drop-​In Painting (Tuesdays), Open Chess Play (Saturdays), Mixed Media Meetup (Mondays) and more.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Winterville Cultural Center, Winterville) 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 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) TIMB​ Athens & 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-​850-​ 0387 or support@grailbras.com DIAPER DONATIONS (Athens Area Diaper Bank) Diaper donations needed for local infants. All sizes and open packs/boxes are accepted. www.athensareadiaper​ bank.com FIRE PIT RAFFLE (Friends of the Madison County Library) Madison County Library hosts a raffle for an outdoor gas fire pit to benefit various programs. $1 per ticket, unlimited entries. The winning ticket will be drawn in November after the Madison County Harvest Festival. www.athenslibrary.org/madison MEDICAL EQUIPMENT (Friends of Disabled Adults and Children) Free home medical equipment provided to those in need. Athens locations for pickup at Northeast Georgia Area Agency on Aging and Multiple Choices. Donations also accepted. www.fodac.org MEDICAL EQUIPMENT EXCHANGE (Silver Lace) Open registration for consideration for free mobility and daily living medical items. Donations also accepted. www.silverlace​ inc.org, info@silverlace.org MICROCHIP SCANNING STATIONS (Multiple Locations) Connect lost pets with their owners. Available 24 hours. Located at ACC Animals Services, Memorial Park Dog Park and Southeast Clarke Park. Instructions provided at each location.

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 & 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 (ACC Solid Waste) Seeking Zero Waste Volunteers for AthFest. Volunteers will help event attendees sort waste and help with waste diversion. www. givepulse.com/event/880273 SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) Volunteers needed for community food distribution events including weekly food kitchen, meal deliveries and more.

Also accepting donations of canned and dry goods. wwwmarigold collectivewinterville.com SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Meals on Wheels) Currently recruiting volunteers to deliver meals, engage in safety checks and more. eschley@ accaging.org SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (PAX Exchange Students) Seeking

volunteer families to host global exchange students. www.pax.org, 800-​555-​6211 SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Shoal Creek Sanctuary) Volunteers needed for variety of events including invasive plant removal, plant adoptions and more. First Sundays, 1–3:30 p.m. www.shoalcreek sanctuary.org/volunteer SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (St. Mary’s Home Health & Hospice) Seeking volunteers to provide companionship or to help with simple tasks for those in hospice care. Training provided. 706-​389-​2273 TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store.

Please bring credentials. www.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 FarmPLAY (Foxfire Woods & Farm) Monthly nature-​based, creativity-​filled playgroup for kids ages 11–15. Registration required. $5 suggested donation. www.foxfire​ woodsandfarm.com LEARN TO SWIM (ACC Leisure Services Department) Registration open for variety of lessons for ages over 3 years old including Swim School, Parent/Tot Swim School and Adult Swim Lessons. $33 per session. Additionally, a free Kinderswim program is offered for 5-​year-​ old children. Registration required for all events. www.accgov.com/ aquatics SPRING & SUMMER CAMP (Canopy Studios) Registration for a variety of day camp dates for grades K-​12 is now available. www.canopy​ studio.org/class-​schedule/camps SUMMER CAMP (Athens Area Humane Society) Registration is now open for “Humane Heroes” and “Junior Vet” summer camps in June & July. Ages 6–14. www.athens​ humanesociety.org/summer-​camp SUMMER CAMP (OCAF, Watkinsville) Registration now open for a 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. nowhere​archery.com/summer-​camp SUMMER CAMP (Nuçi’s Space) A production, engineering, mixing and live sound curriculum added to the two week summer Camp Amped sessions. Registration now open.

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

Word on the Street 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 CALL FOR MUSICAL DIRECTOR (Athens Creative Theater) Seeking a musical director for an upcoming production. Email act@accgov. com for information.

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 FRIDAY EVENTS (Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living) The organization hosts ongoing Friday gatherings. Tech discussions, support groups and more. www. multiplechoices.us/youre-​invited MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (Nuçi’s Space) Direct connections to mental healthcare like counseling and psychiatry, medical care for physical concerns and more. www. nuci.org, 706-​227-​1515 MINDFUL BREATH SANGHA MEETING (Healing Lodge) In the Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Sundays, 1–2:30 p.m. Newcomers welcome.

Free. www.mindfulbreathsangha.org 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

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JUNE 24, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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music

EN T ERT AI NM EN T CALENDAR

threats & promises

Seven Fangs’ “Into Molecules” PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

COMING SOON

COMING TO THE CLASSIC CENTER THEATRE

and plays ukulele. It’s a relatively short track at a mere 2:24, and I admit I was jarred by it at first. There was just something about it that I couldn’t place, and then it hit me that there’s a very subtle musical reference here, probably completely unintentional, to “Bali Ha’i” as recorded in 1958 for the motion picture version of South Pacific. My favorite part of this is when the bass and keyboards kick in at 1:59. This is a breakup song that seeks to recognize heartbreak but not succumb to it. Find this on all major streaming services starting Friday, June 26, and for more information, please see bryant​ perez.com. If there’s any chance you’d like to be involved somehow with the planned video for this track, drop him a line via Instagram @bryantperezmusic.

SHAKE IT UP: Uber-­ competent rockers KIT released a new single last week named “Form Endures.” It is reportedly from an upcoming album, but that’s all I really know about it.

Seven Fangs Anyway, this cooks from the first note.

It’s kind of an odd mix of guitar-­oriented new wave à la The Cars, but there’s also an undeniable Nirvana influence here. The group next plays locally this Friday night at 10:15 p.m. at Paloma Park during the AthFest club crawl. Find this on major streaming services, and for more information, please see kitmusicathens.com.

FROM THE TOP: The always interesting collaboration between multi-­ instrumentalists Joe Rowe and George Davidson, Exchains, has returned with a new album Sun Shrine. The duo works completely in an improvisational style with zero composed work and zero plans for, well, anything. Sonically, Davidson’s saxophone occupies a decent amount of space, but this is tempered by his deft use of m’biras and m’bellas. I found this collection of seven tracks to be more immediately contemplative than their other work, which is often more propulsive and beat-­grounded. Of particular interest is the semi-­mournful “Ice Cream Chrome” and the guitar-­underscored “Of AMist Mirage.” Find this at exchains.bandcamp.com.

JORDAN RAINES

Hey, y’all, it’s AthFest week, and y’all know what that means. It’s the one time of year we all have the opportunity to stand on hot asphalt with thousands of strangers and clap for a bunch of bands that we may or may not have heard before or, hell, may or may not even like. That said, it’s also one of the precious large, non-­football events that draws people to our town to experience the things we largely take for granted. So, with this in mind, be patient and kind with folks who don’t know our streets, our local customs, our nicknames for drinks, etc. And if you’re one of the out-­of-­towners I’m talking about, please consider yourself at home. I hope you have a great time here and take the good word of the Athens music scene back home with you.

Now, let’s get into this week’s stuff.

COMING TO AKINS FORD ARENA

AUGUST

22

Athens Beer Fest Benefiting The Classic Center Cultural Foundation

SEPTEMBER

Cavalry: Work of 25 Flatland Heart Tour Classi cCenter.com/UpcomingEvents

HAPPY FESTIVAL!

SET SAIL FOR THE SUN: Seven Fangs, the recording project of composer and musician Myles Carlyle, has a new song out and, I swear, he’s reached a new stage of grandeur.

This song, “Into Molecules,” is intense and anthemic from its first notes. It mostly follows the same melody over and over with no bridges, pre-­choruses, or, hell, even choruses for that reason. In this way its structure is very reminiscent of some of Neutral Milk Hotel’s most compelling songs (e.g.

“My Dream Girl Don’t Exist,” “Communist Daughter,” et al.). But that’s also a little reductive and pigeon-­holey because this is a hymn of a song and deserves to be heard on its own with no baggage attached. So do that, and find it on all major streaming services. For more information, please see instagram.com/seven_fangs_.

WALK ON: By the time you’re neck deep into the weekend, rapper Bryant Perez will have released his newest single “Realign and Continue.” The music is a collaboration between Perez and Athens comedian and musician Nancy Heiges, who both sings

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 24, 2026

PAVILLION OF DREAMS: A 25-­track self-­titled debut album is certainly an ambitious undertaking, and that’s exactly what Marian Aura Migraine did. I’ve no clue who this person actually is, but this record caught me unaware and grabbed me immediately. This reminds me most of those non-­ conforming experimental releases that an indie rock label awash in cash might have released back when labels could actually be awash in cash. At its most basic level this could all be classified as experimental ambient music, but the particular ambience shifts across this broad collection.

There’s the creaky sound check of opening track “Lawn Rows as Field,” the minimally sprightly lilt of “Porch Threat,” the thematic “The Hopeulikit Dance Hall” and the air-­ filled “The Cloisters.” I’d encourage you to take some time with this and just let it play and surprise you. Find it at marianaura​ migraine.bandcamp.com. f

LET PEIKEN HELP!

Edited by Margie E. Burke

2 7 1 6 8 9 7 9 5 3 7 2 5 4 5 1 3 2 8 3

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PRONOUNCED I CAN HELP

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Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

HOW TO SOLVE:

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of by 3 boxes must contain Week of 36/22/26 - 6/28/26 the numbers 1 to 9.

The Weekly Crossword 1

2

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6

7

8

by Margie E. Burke 9

10

15

14 17

18

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34

35

36

55

56

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42 45

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26 Maine college town 28 Remnants 30 Tasseled cap 31 ___ chic 33 Churchill's follower 37 Expands upon, with "out" 39 Contract signing 40 Damascus denizen 41 Fodder building 42 Bleacher bum's shout 43 Tops 45 Lengthy lock 47 Minaj of music 50 Acting Ashton 52 Expands (on)

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Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

54 Bus rider's fee 57 Had on 58 Ascribed (to) 60 Tennyson lady 61 Numerical suffix 62 Had a homecooked meal 63 Places for experiments 64 Miscalculates 65 Ibsen's "___ Gabler" DOWN 1 Emulates Drake 2 Antioxidant-rich berry 3 Earth-moving machine 4 London native, e.g.

5 Actor McKellen 6 Home-wrecking insects 7 Running mates?

8 Indian turnover 9 Whole bunch 10 Romantic ones 11 Corrective eye surgery 12 Pooh's creator 13 Drudges 18 Dover's state: Abbr.

22 Upper canine 24 Lady-killer 26 Slays, in slang 27 Lean (on) 29 Summon 32 Artist Magritte 34 Emancipated 35 Hazzard deputy 36 Inflatable things 38 Patients' resting places 39 Water storage tanks 41 Talk like Porky 44 Figure eight figure 46 Prove to be false 47 Banister post 48 Massey of old movies 49 Native Trinidadian 51 CBS forensic series 53 Set price 55 Tara of the "Sharknado" films 56 Fashion designer in "The Incredibles" 59 Dickensian cry

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