FP260715

COLORBEARER OF ATHENS SNIFFING OUT NEWS

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1987

JULY 15, 2026 · VOL. 40 · NO. 28 · FREE

Little Gold Releasing Long-Awaited Album Public Dog p. 9

RESTAURANT SECTION

Celebrating 20 years at 197 Oak Street July 21st: Dine-in for 20% off $20 gift cards, BOGO, in-store

www.mamasboyathens.com

NOW OPEN THIS SUMMER FOR EXTENDED HOURS:

MEET THE MAKER

8AM – 8PM MONDAY – FRIDAY

(SAT & SUN BRUNCH ONLY)

LIVE MUSIC

THURS/FRI/SAT NIGHTS!

CASUAL & SOCIAL BEER & WINE FAMILY FRIENDLY

Locally Sourced Goodness Everyday

PALETARITAS ARE HERE FLAVORS INCLUDE:

@ CALINTITOS

2

Sandíada - Watermelon

Loca Fresa - Strawberry + Chocolate

Cookie Margster - Oreo

Lemonada - Lime

Guavita - Guava

Friwi - Strawberry Kiwi

Pica Fresa - Strawberry Chamoy

Cocorita - Coconut

Mangorita - Mango Chamoy

Fresada - Strawberry

HAPPY HOUR All DaY Tue, Wed, & THU

$9.45 ATHENS, GA

ENJOY YOUR LATIN THING

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

PELACANAS WEEK

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

BLOODY MARY CAIPIRINHA PISCO SOUR PIÑA COLADA CUBA LIBRE PALOMA MOJITO All Cocktails MULE MICHELADA

SUN–THURS 10:30AM–10PM • FRI & SAT 10:30AM–11PM

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

this week’s issue

contents

Southern gothic band Norma Rae will perform at Dead Beat Club on Saturday, July 18 with Jay Gonzalez Duo and The Homewood Sound.

For more shows, see the “Live Music Calendar” on p. 6.

Curb Your Appetite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 NEWS: City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Pine Wood Water Solution

This Modern World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Street Scribe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Live Music Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

NEWS: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Calendar Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Cannabis Access Expanded

Threats & Promises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Little Gold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

MUSIC: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Aquarium Drunkard’s Roots ARTS & CULTURE: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Local Summer Reading List

WASHINGTONSQUARESTUDIO.COM

706.395.6633

WE DO HAIR!

Event Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Art Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Adopt Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Local Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alicia Nickles PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner ADVERTISING SALES Jonathon Musser, Isabella Williams EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin CITY EDITOR Blake Aued MUSIC EDITOR Sam Lipkin ARTS & CULTURE COORDINATOR Libba Beaucham OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Jennifer Keene CLASSIFIED ADS & CALENDAR COORDINATOR Jennifer Keene AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson CONTRIBUTORS Gordon Lamb, Alander Rocha, Ed Tant CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser CIRCULATION Gerald Burris, 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

Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

flagpole

COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Little Gold by Hunter Pinkston (see story on p. 9) 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

ARTS & CULTURE: arts@flagpole.com LETTERS: letters@flagpole.com MUSIC: music@flagpole.com NEWS: news@flagpole.com

Flagpole, Inc. publishes Flagpole Magazine weekly and distributes 8,600 copies free at over 275 locations around Athens, Georgia. Subscriptions cost $140 a year, $75 for six months. © 2026 Flagpole, Inc. All rights reserved.

VOLUME 40 ISSUE NUMBER 28

Association of Alternative Newsmedia

PLEASE SUPPORT FREE LOCAL NEWS SUPPORT FLAGPOLE

online exclusive Keith Neace, owner of the downtown location of Barberitos, announced that at the end of the month the family will close the franchise’s original Athens store. The downtown bar Bad Moon also held its final night over the weekend, permanently closing after nine years.

“Downtown Barberitos Owners Give Farewell, and More Food News”

CLASSIFIEDS

BUY•SELL RENT•HIRE Interact with real, local, human beings.

706-549-9523 • class@flagpole.com JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

3

news

city dope

Pine Wood Water Crisis Solved?

community, and not have [residents] on the road going back and forth to Space Kroger,” potentially addressing the traffic concerns and helping one-­car households in a very autocentric part of town.

MOBILE HOME PARK EXPANSION WOULD PAY TO FIX PIPES, AND MORE NEWS ‘Fun Town’ Planned for Clock Plant

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

GEORGIA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION

A group that bought the former Westclox/General Time factory on Newton The owners of Pine Wood Estates North Bridge Road wants out from under a previor dismissed those fees for developments have pledged to fix the mobile home park’s that qualify as affordable. In addition to the ous binding site plan for the property. chronic water problems as part of a proOnly half the original plan—two apartplanned internal water system improveposal to expand it and neighboring Country ments, Warren emphasized the neighborment buildings and a warehouse occupied Corners off U.S. Highway 29.

by Terrapin Beer Co. and Five companies, reponline furniture retailer Wayresented by Bogart-­based fair—was built. The other Carter Engineering, are half includes a hotel, a 3,000-­ proposing to add 110 new seat music venue and light pads to Pine Wood Estates, industrial space. But previous bringing it to 410 pads total developer Ardent determined on about 70 acres. The applithat the plan was financially cants are seeking a special unviable and sold the actual use permit because the propfactory building to a group of erty is zoned agricultural and local investors. commercial-­rural, categories “I truly believe the binding that do not allow mobile site plan is the reason why homes (the current ones the building is in demolition were grandfathered in). The by neglect right now,” said special unit permit will bring one of them, Chris Jackson, the entire community into a historic preservation concompliance with the zoning sultant. The factory walls are code, Athens-­Clarke County solid masonry, but the roof planners said. needs replacing, he said. Last The expansion would year Historic Athens named help fund $1.5 million the building one of its “Places in improvements to Pine in Peril.”

Wood’s water infrastructure, Another investor, Russell said co-­owner Mike Warren Edwards, told the Athens-­ of Atlanta and Jessie West, Clarke County Planning a landscape architect with Commission July 2 that the Carter Engineering. “There’s group plans to renovate the just no easy way of doing it building and turn it into a Kelly Girtz (second from left) became the first Athens mayor in 40 years to be without adding units,” West family-­friendly entertaininducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame for his work on told Athens-­Clarke County ment center featuring activihousing affordability, economic development, transportation, environmental susplanning commissioners at a ties like putt-­putt golf, as well tainability, literacy and preserving local Black history. See flagpole.com for more.

July 2 meeting. “Ultimately as low-­cost spaces for local we need money to put those artists and entrepreneurs. things in, because no one’s gonna do it for “The reason we bought this buildhood’s affordability. The new manufactured free.” houses would sell for $85,000–$120,000, or ing—there’s three of us—we all have kids, Warren said the fire marshal told him young kids. We feel like we need more third mostly rent for less than $600 a month, he that no additional units would be allowed spaces, fun places for families and kids and said. “It’s a great option for a lot of people until the property owners installed fire all people to come together and have fun,” who otherwise can’t afford a [stick-­built] hydrants. He said he has been working house,” he said. with a contractor and the ACC government About a dozen locals from other neighto devise a plan to tie onto a water main borhoods attended the meeting to support already running down Highway 29 that the expansion—as long as it includes would provide for fire protection, as well improvements to water infrastructure. as city water service for the working-­class, Some longtime nearby residents, though, mostly Hispanic community. Its water curopposed it, citing concerns about trafrently comes from two private wells, and fic, property values, loss of trees and the the neighborhood’s internal pipes are aging impact on their rural way of life. and frequently break.

“I’m going to say this: Who wants to For years, residents have dealt with frehave their property bordered on all three quent, unannounced water shutoffs while sides by mobile homes? It’s all around me. I burst pipes are repaired. At those times, think my property value will go down,” said they rely on bottled water donated by local Harrison Dowdy, who said he has lived on churches and nonprofits.

Highway 29 for 53 years.

“Trailers, more buildings are fine, but West and Warren similarly applied for the water is the main thing,” said Evelyn a special use permit to add 169 pads to Rushing, manager of the Pine Wood library Country Corners, next door to Pine Wood. branch, who said residents who couldn’t In that case, though, they said the profits make it to the meeting asked her to speak would go toward tying onto the county on their behalf. “Yes, it’s expensive, but sewer system. Unlike Pine Wood, Country I feel like if the city and the owners get Corners has city water but not sewer. The together to fix this situation, because we planning commission tabled both requests have kids, it would be great.” on planners’ recommendation as they work Generally, ACC provides water and sewer out details, which the applicants agreed infrastructure along the public right-­of-­ with. way, but there is a fee to tie on, and propThe applicants are also seeking a rezonerty owners are responsible for the pipes ing for two small retail spaces on Highway underneath their land. However, at times 29. While no specific businesses were the mayor and commission have reduced identified, West said they would “serve the

4

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

Edwards said.

In place of the binding site plan, the group wants to rezone part of the property from employment-­office to commercial-­ general and create an overlay district allowing for a mixed-­use development with outdoor entertainment and more apartments than are usually allowed in a C-­G zone. It would also include less parking and preserve 3.5 acres of greenspace.

“We don’t want to pave any more of this site. It’s a lovely site. It’s right up against Newtown Bridge Road. It’s got a grove of nice magnolia trees… There’s a ton of parking right here,” Edwards said. “We want to maintain the building and do everything we can to bring it back to life.”

While most planning commissioners praised Edwards’ ideas, some were skeptical and worried that the property would eventually be flipped for apartments if his vision didn’t work out. “My fear is that adding all of this is going to bring in an apartment building. You’re going to sell it. You’ll make money. That’s great,” said Alex Sams, a real estate agent. “But we have totally lost that beautiful gem of a place that the current PD [planned development] threw out. That’s why we held onto that and wouldn’t let them change that.”

Others preferred the flexibility an overlay district offers compared to a binding site plan, which must be built exactly as shown on paper. Matthew Hall, a UGA law professor who teaches zoning classes, pointed to PDs like the Georgia Square Mall redevelopment that failed because they were too rigid. “The more planning we have, the worse public spaces we’ve gotten over the past 75 years,” he said. Edwards agreed, saying he wants the site to grow organically like downtown.

Another issue is that the original PD includes a connection to a future North Oconee River Greenway spur. Fun Town, LLC inherited the requirement to build the connection when it bought the southern half of the parcel in 2025. However, it doesn’t own the land where the connection is located, creating a catch-­22. Planning commissioners said they would most likely remove the requirement and revisit the issue whenever the spur is actually built. f

news

street scribe

news

feature

Biden’s Blunder

Cannabis Access Expanded

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

By Alander Rocha news@flagpole.com

NEW BOOK DETAILS MISTAKES THAT LET TRUMP RETURN TO POWER

On July 4 the United States celebrated 250 years since its birth in 1776. This year the mood of America’s citizenry is a mixture of celebration and cynicism as economic uncertainty stalks the land and two important elections loom on the political horizon.

A

new state law that took effect Tiffanni Forbes, an internal medicine July 1 fundamentally changed physician and certified cannabis doctor Georgia’s medical cannabis probased in Fayetteville, said she’s most excited gram. The new law, named “Putting Georabout the rebranding of the program that gia’s Patients First Act,” significantly eases does away with the “low THC” name and barriers that advocates and physicians said the caps based on percentage. She said the have hindered access to medical cannabis old system led to confusion among patients and hampered interest for patients. who are used to medications being dosed in Georgia lawmakers first opened the door milligrams. to medical cannabis in 2015, and created “People got very confused about what to what has been called the state’s low-­THC oil take, how to take it, is this potent, is this program ever since. Under the bipartisan not so potent, so we’re doing away with all measure passed during the 2026 legislative of that,” Forbes said. “There will be certain session, Georgia’s program will have a new things that are more potent based upon straightforward name—medical cannabis— how much THC versus others, but you don’t and new rules. also have this percentage sitting here, which Gary Long, the CEO of Botanical Scimeans really nothing to us. It was just how ences, a Georgia-­based company that grows, the law was written.” processes and sells its products in its five While the new law is seen as a win for dispensaries, with a sixth opening late increased access to medical cannabis, advosummer in Augusta, said the new law “mod- cates said the work is not finished. Yolanda ernizes the state’s Bennett, who is program and brings a patient herself it in line with other We’ve been in that ‘low THC and has advocated states.” the program’s oil’ place, and it has limited for “We’ve been in expansion over the that ‘low THC oil’ years as the co-­head the interest of the people that place, and it has of the Georgia Medare out there. limited the interest ical Cannabis Sociof the people that ety, an organization are out there,” said that advocates for Long, who predicted medical cannabis the new changes access and educates could triple the patients, said she number of patients was excited about by mid-­2027. As the changes. But she of the end of June, also said advocacy there were nearly in the next law36,600 active making session will patients enrolled. focus on pushing for “In that former insurance coverage, model, not only protecting patients did it not allow for the potency, but also who live in public housing and overturning the delivery methods that many of those restrictions on consuming medical cannabis patients are interested in consuming,” he outside a patient’s home. added.

“I realized that consistency and advocacy Under the new law, Georgia will drop the do work when you have legislators that “low THC” label, which capped products are listening, and since we were a part of at a 5% THC limit, and adopt a milligram moving the needle with this, it really and system, which allows patients to buy up to truly feels pretty good, even though I know 12,000 milligrams of product at a time. The that we have a long way to go. I want to new law also allows patients over 21 to pur- make sure that the legislators know that chase oil and products for dry herb vaporthis is not the finish line, and you shouldn’t ization. Smoking cannabis is still prohibited forget about the patients, because this is a by state law. start,” Bennett said.

The new law also adds new qualifying Steph Sherer, founder and president conditions, such as lupus and irritable of Americans for Safe Access, a national bowel syndrome, and it gets rid of the organization advocating for federal policy requirement that certain conditions, like to make medical cannabis safer and more cancer and AIDS, must be “severe or end accessible, said that advocates hope the stage” to qualify. rescheduling of medical cannabis will lead Coupled with April’s rescheduling of to federal changes and more uniform laws medical cannabis on the federal level, which across the country. “Now that registered allowed independent pharmacies to then medical cannabis patients have a stronger start selling medical cannabis products, the basis to assert protections under the Amerstate’s new law will ease access by allowing icans with Disabilities Act and other civil pharmacies that were previously prohibited rights laws, and do not have to fear losing from selling products due to being within a their jobs, homes, health care or basic certain distance from schools and places of rights, we expect a groundswell of advocacy worship to participate in the program. The demanding equal access nationwide,” Sherer new law also decreases that distance for dis- said. f pensaries, bringing them in line with stores This article originally appeared at georgiarecorder.com. that sell alcoholic drinks.

CIRCE DENYER / CREATIVE COMMONS

This year’s midterm elections will be a suspenseful contest leading into the presidential campaign in 2028. Political junkies are sure to be captivated by electoral battles waged this fall and in 2028.

A new book by CNN journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson is a cautionary tale of what not to do in a race for the White House. Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-­Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again delivers exactly what its subtitle says. A sad story of ego, hubris, chicanery and palace intrigue, Original Sin makes the case that President Joe Biden, his wife and his Oval Office associates conspired to keep Biden’s health problems hidden from voters and from politicians of both parties.

Biden’s decline was revealed to the world during his dismal 2024 debate performance against Donald Trump. The Atlanta debate made news across America as the Biden who had defeated Trump in 2020 came across as a befuddled Biden in 2024. “There was, of course, a political case to prosecute against Trump,” say the authors, “but Biden proved unable to do it.”

By the time Biden dropped out of a 2024 run, it was too late for Vice President Kamala Harris to cobble together a presidential campaign, and other potential Democratic candidates had been squeezed out of contention by Biden’s stubborn death grip on the reins of power. Original Sin is a fast-­ paced and revealing look at how political machinations in the Biden White House set

the stage for Trump’s come-­back re-­election in 2024.

Original Sin is a new book about the most recent American presidential contest, but a classic in the field of campaign reporting is Theodore White’s The Making of the President 1960. Published 65 years ago, White’s book revealed the inner workings of the race for the White House that Democrat John Kennedy ran against Republican Richard Nixon, a down-­to-­the wire nail-­biter of a campaign that fascinates political observers to this day. The Making of the President 1960 was awarded a Pulitzer Prize, and it became a best-­seller for its penetrating look inside the Kennedy/ Nixon presidential campaigns.

Though Nixon lost to Kennedy in the presidential election of 1960, in 1968 Nixon was elected after defeating Democrat Hubert Humphrey. In 1969, journalist Joe McGinniss parodied the title of White’s book with his own book titled The Selling of the President 1968. With tongue in cheek but with research at the ready, McGinniss detailed how Nixon learned from his 1960 loss and went on to win the White House. Legendary New York journalist Jimmy Breslin said the book was “the most meaningful writing on the 1968 election.”

Conservative icon William F. Buckley called it “a work of art.” Today, election watchers of both major parties can still find laughs and lessons in The Selling of the President 1968.

By 1972 Nixon was in his second term as president and still two years away from his eventual resignation in disgrace. The Vietnam War still raged, even though Nixon had campaigned on what he called “a secret plan” to end the conflict. Nixon easily won re-­election in a 1972 campaign against a hapless antiwar challenger, Democrat George McGovern. Gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson catalogued that campaign in his 1973 book Fear and Loathing: On the Campaign Trial ’72. Thompson despised Nixon and his hired gunsels, and his book eviscerated the candidate with boozy, drug-­ drenched poison prose reminiscent of his earlier and most famous volume, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

Biden’s befuddlement, as exposed in Original Sin, now seems less worrisome than the current memes and meanderings of President Trump. In 1965, Cold War novelist Fletcher Knebel wrote Night of Camp David, a political thriller about a president who goes mad. His book was fiction then but it seems plausible today.

Elections are imminent as America turns 250. President Dwight D. Eisenhower was correct when he said, “Politics should be the part-­time profession of every citizen.” f

NEW STATE LAW REMOVES BARRIERS TO MEDICAL MARIJUANA

“

JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

5

live music calendar Tuesday 14

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 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials along with live piano music.

Wednesday 15

Thursday 16 Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. FREE! www.deadbeatathens. com SONG-​O-​RAMA Ten songwriters perform two songs each to advance to the final round of this songwriter competition.

Flicker Theatre & Bar Nowsense Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.flicker​ theatreandbar.com KARMA KAT Local band with sounds of rock, pop and funky jazz.

They’ll rock your whiskers off!

RAE AND THE RAGDOLLS Atlanta rock and rollers blending folky psychedelia and room rattling rock.

THE BAND FRUITION New band based in Atlanta.

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 Benefit Show. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15. www.hendershots​ athens.com DJ GOTH DAD Dustin Gannon of Vision Video leads a dance party spinning goth, post-​punk and more.

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

FREEMAN LEVERETT Dreamy, hypnotic and danceable songs with

6

Friday 17 40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15. www.40watt.com CINEMECHANICA Athens band that’s a pioneer of the region’s millennial math-​rock landscape.

TIGER BEAR WOLF Twisted riffs of southern rock fed on a steady diet of hardcore and psychedelic post-​punk all filtered into their raw recordings and pummeling live shows.

REAL WOW Heavy, angular and expansive indie rock from Athens.

Athentic Brewing Co. 7:30–10:30 p.m. www.athentic brewing.com THE ORIGINAL SPLITZ BAND A mixed drink of the classic Motown sound, part 1970s funk and disco flavor, a dash of the old-​school and contemporary R&B, and a guaranteed good time.

Ciné 8 p.m. $15. www.athenscine.com ORDER OF THE OWL Heavy stoner metal out of Atlanta.

HOT RAM Desert rock and doom metal from Atlanta.

MARSES Heavy, fuzzy, riff-​riddled rock band.

Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $10. www.deadbeatathens.com 20X5 Five artists including Joe Rowe, Claire Campbell, Jacob Wick, JoJo Glidewell and Dan Nettles will perform 20-​minute solo sets built entirely around new material, works in progress, experiments and ideas still finding their final shape.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com JOHN KINNISON Solo live-​looping acoustic artist originally from Pensacola, FL. LUKE SLY Local musician known for playing in Tommy Hedgehog and Bad First Date.

JULIA ELMORE Singer-​songwriter with resonant lyricism.

Hendershot’s 8 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com LIZ FARRELL Folk, jazz, and indie pop influences manifesting in heartfelt vocals and intentional throughlines of ukulele and piano.

JIM WILLYHAM Local folk rock singer-songwriter (Dim Watts, Burly Ivy) exploring themes of comedy and tragedy.

PATRICK BARRY Local songwriter weaving stories with his baritone voice and intricate fingerstyle.

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga CHOIR OF BABBLE The intense energy of Tool, the melodic sensibility of A Perfect Circle and the industrial edge of Nine Inch Nails.

THE QUIT Trio from middle Georgia playing music that feels good.

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

Saturday 18 Bishop Park Athens Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmers​ market.net GEORGIA CHILDREN’S CHOURS Singers ages 7–18 from the greater Athens area who are trained in-​residence at Hugh Hodgson School of Music. (9 a.m.)

MAC MCCOMB Alternative folk rock with multi-genre influences.

Album release show!

ELI POTTER No info available.

Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15 (adv.), $20. www.facebook.com/Aubrey​ EntertainmentAthensGA DOUBLE HELIX Performing the music of Steely Dan. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga ANNE RICHMOND BOSTON Former vocalist/keyboardist of Atlanta new wave/jangle pop band The Swimming Pool Q’s.

NEIL OLD Performing the songs of Neil Young.

Rocket Hall OCAF Music Series. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $15 (members), $20 (non-​members). www. ocaf.com

open session after the show. Bring your instrument and a tune to share!

Sunday 19 ACC Library Live at the Library. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org MARTY WINKLER AND FRIENDS Singer incorporating jazz, Americana, folk, cabaret, blues and more.

You name it, she can sing it!

Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com DAVE FORKER & HIS CUSTOM CONCERN Originals and covers.

Boutier Winery Wine Down. 3–5 p.m. www.boutier​ winery.com JOHN LEE Playing covers on piano.

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

KAT WOOD

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

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

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

Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowhere​ barathensga THE GALENTINES All-​girl indie-​ rock band based out of Boulder, CO. Porterhouse Grill 7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

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/vfw2872 CHRIS HAMPTON BAND Athens-​ based band performing a variety of country, western and rock dance music with line dancing during the breaks.

thoughtful lyrics and cosmopolitan influences.

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.

Freeman Leverett will play at Hendershot’s on Thursday, July 16.

Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $10. www.deadbeatathens.com NORMA RAE Singing songs addressing contemporary Southern concerns from a female perspective.

JAY GONZALEZ DUO Jay Gonzalez (Drive-​by Truckers) and Matt Lane (The Lanes) playing various types of pop songs loudly with various types of keyboards and drums.

HOMEWOOD SOUND An original stew of blues, R&B and soul sprinkled with a healthy dash of classic rock and roll.

Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. (doors). $10. www.flicker theatreandbar.com NEWPORT TRANSPLANT Dynamic honky-​tonk band straddling punk rock and sci-​fi wonder.

EVE JEAN Tennessee songstress living in Texas.

CONNER VLIESTRA Old-​time country musician from Chattanooga, TN. Hendershot’s 7 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com CARDYNAL AND THE FLOCK An eclectic, multi-faceted producer, instrumentalist and vocalist delivering hard-hitting, witty bars and catchy melodies.

TROPICAL BREEZE STEEL BAND Band formed over 30 years ago

by Dr. Tony “Doc” McCutchen and composed entirely of former UGA students performing Jimmy Buffet, Bob Marley and other island sounds.

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.

San Angel Cocina & Cantina 8 p.m. FREE! www.sanangelcocina​ cantina.com NOCHE DE BAILE DJ MANE, TIMBAthens and SALSAthens host a monthly dance social with the latest Latin music. The evening kicks off with a dance class.

Southern Drawl Bar & Grille 6–9 p.m. www.southerndrawlbarand​ grille.com MARTY WEATHERFORD Country Americana singer-​songwriter.

Terrapin Beer Co. Tomatoes at Terrapin. 4​​–7 p.m. $40. www.athenswellnessclinic.org FAWNEY RIG Hard-​edged Irish folk rock with a traditional Irish

Oak House Distillery 4–6:30 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery. com GREG CLINTON Solo set by the guitarist for RiffNotes.

The World Famous 8:30 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10–15. www.facebook.com/ theworldfamousathens GROCER Band from Philadelphia, PA whose meticulous and volatile compositions flicker between moments of brash chromaticism, saccharine pop sensibility and rhythmic acrobatics.

YOUR EX’S PETS Haunting, groovy, soft-​loud songs with rich vocal harmonies and layered arrangements.

CRAZIER Indie-​rock anti-​cowboy music featuring Eli Raps, Winston Barbe, Alex Dillon and Kevin Cregge.

Tuesday 21 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 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials along with live piano music.

Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga SCOTT PRYOR Alternative rock from Atlanta.

State Botanical Garden of Georgia Sunflower Concert Series. 7 p.m. $12 (ages 5–16), $24. botgarden. uga.edu THE ORIGINAL SPLITZ BAND A mixed drink of the classic Motown sound, part 1970s funk and disco flavor, a dash of the old-​school and contemporary R&B, and a guaranteed good time.

The World Famous 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10 suggested donation. www.facebook. com/theworldfamousathens MARCEL P. BLACK A true grassroots, DIY emcee who uses his platform for social justice.

ARSENIC Former Athenian hip-​hop artist known for sharp lyricism and battle-​tested energy.

SHO An Athens-based hip-​hop artist bringing raw emotion, personal storytelling and a commanding presence rooted in real-​life experience.

STELLA GROOVE Athens-​area singer-​songwriter whose music moves through soul, R&B, country and rock.

FARIN Athens artist who blends hip hop, reggae, dancehall and Caribbean-​inspired energy.

DK Local artist weaving lyrically driven truths together with lo-​fi beats.

ISHUES Legendary local hip-​hop artist who is influenced by both Northern and Southern hip-​hop sounds.

DJ CHIEFROCKA A trusted Athens hip-​hop DJ providing the soundtrack, energy and transitions that keep the night connected.

Wednesday 22 Athentic Brewing Co. 7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Second and fourth Wednesdays.

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

Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.), $15. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga ASSEMBLY Art punk/math rock band from Atlanta.

CHEER-​ACCIDENT A creative, vital force in Chicago rock music for over 30 years.

GOODHOST Energetic alternative group incorporating math rock elements.

Porterhouse Grill 7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits. f

arts & culture

calendar picks

ART | THU, JULY 16

MUSIC | SUN, JULY 19

Lyndon House Arts Center • 5:30 p.m. • FREE!

The World Famous • 8:30 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show) • $10–15

Opening Reception

Opening alongside Jennifer Heynen’s “Interwoven” exhibition at Lyndon House Arts Center is Valton Murray’s “It Came to Me in a Dream.” Murray is a self-­taught artist based in Mesena, near Augusta, whose works typically depict vibrant scenes of his childhood home, family life and the rural Southern landscape. For this exhibition, however, he is moving beyond narrative scenes to explore more dreamlike landscapes. These works’ simultaneous familiarity and abstraction mimic the feeling of memory, turning something precise into something fluid and intuitive. Murray, who faced polio and epilepsy early in his life, has had his works displayed in the International Organization on Arts and Disabilities festival and exhibition, as well as in esteemed venues like the Kennedy Center. At the opening reception, guests will have the opportunity to meet Heynen and Murray and experience their works, which will be on display through Oct. 10. [Mary Beth Bryan]

Grocer

Philadelphia’s Grocer is returning to Athens for a show with local bands Your Ex’s Pets and Crazier. Formed in 2020, Grocer is a truly DIY trio that’s built its following through repeated visits to cities across America. The band is known for rotating its members in and out of the role of lead vocalist, keeping its forays into ’90s-­inspired rock and dissonant pop especially interesting. Bless Me is Grocer’s most recent effort, released in 2024 on Philly experimental label Grind Select. The record was tracked live in the band’s basement and mixed in part by Nate Amos (Water From Your Eyes, This Is Lorelei), so the results feel like lightning in a bottle in the truest

40 Watt Club • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $15

OCAF Live Music Series

OCAF • 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show) • $15 (OCAF members), $20 (adv.), $25

Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation is hosting the next installment of its OCAF Live Music Series this weekend in Rocket Hall. This show will feature island-­inspired music from Tropical Steel Breeze Band. The Athens/Atlanta-­based band was formed over 30 years ago by Tony “Doc” McCutchen during his time as a professor of percussion at the University of Georgia. His band is composed entirely of former UGA students who play everything from Jimmy Buffet to Bob Marley to the calypso and soca music of Trinidad and Tobago. The ensemble has played a number of notable gigs over the years, from local stages to the Atlanta Jazz Festival. The next OCAF Live Music Series event will be on Aug. 8 and will feature nine-­piece forró band Bichos Vivos. [MB]

ws

ne

Get a weekly run down of local news, events and happenings sent straight to your email!

Tiger Bear Wolf

MUSIC | SAT, JULY 18

a gp fla n em er! a ett l as

h

MUSIC | FRI, JULY 17

Greensboro, NC band Tiger Bear Wolf self-­released its debut record in 2003, then joined up with Athens’ Hello Sir Records for its sophomore release, which polished up its unmistakable brand of hardcore and psychedelic post-­punk Southern rock. A series of issues with time, space and hard drives cut short the band’s third release in 2009, though six years later the lost data was miraculously retrieved. In the years since, the band has been recording across various states and putting together the record with help from local producer Joel Hatstat. The third of Tiger Bear Wolf’s self-­titled LPs will finally enter the world on July 17. Hatstat’s own band, math rocker Cinemechanica, is headlining this release day show, marking the band’s return to the stage for the first time in seven years. Prior to this unplanned hiatus, Cinemechanica had been a steady force in the local music scene since 2002.

Also joining the bill is local noisy post-­rock band Real Wow. [MB]

y! e e H ol il

f

Sign up at flagpole.com

Grocer

sense of the phrase. While the songs of Bless Me are likely to make it to the setlist, the main purpose of the band’s current 19-­ stop tour across North America is to premiere some recently recorded music from its upcoming record. [MB] MUSIC | TUE, JULY 21

Marcel P. Black

The World Famous • 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show) • $10 suggested donation

A year after his appearance at last year’s AthFest, Tulsa, OK-­based hip-­hop artist Marcel P. Black is returning to Athens on his Black Luv tour for a show presented

by ATHfactor-­Liberty Entertainment. The night will be built on peace, love, community and culture, featuring a local lineup of Arsenic, SHo, Stella Groove, Farin, DK and Ishues. DJ ChiefRocka will provide the soundtrack and transition, and Montu Miller will emcee. This show will also mark the return of Beat Wars, for which producers and beat makers will be in the center of the room, given their own space to step up and let the community feel what they create. According to the event’s press release, this show has been curated to display the breadth of Athens hip hop and how “it is a culture that has been built over time by people who believed in it enough to keep creating, even when the larger music scene did not always give hip hop the respect it deserved.” Emphasizing the show’s community aspect, there will be a network mixer beginning when doors open. [MB] f

JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

7

music

threats & promises

achievement with this is avoiding easy references and sloppy construction. It is, to be quite simple, exciting. The way a rock-­and-­ roll record should be. Specific highlights here are “Brooklyn,” “American Dream” and “Somewhere Safe.” But the whole thing smokes, so go tune in at thenewarchitects. bandcamp.com.

The New Architects’ Perfect Strangers PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com AS YOU LIKE IT: Atticus Roness, frequent

visitor to Athens from points west, is releasing singles leading up to his Sept. 4 album Rock ’N’ Roll Hit Parade. The newest, “Wives’ Tale,” is out as of July 16. It’s an acoustic-­based tune, but with a full rock arrangement. Stylistically, it kind of straddles a fence between 1980s glam metal and 1970s glam pop. There’s tons of guitar flourish and arena-­ filling bigness. Roness will next play locally Saturday, July 18 at the 40 Watt Club along with Arkose and The Wraps. Find the new single wherever you stream things, and for more information, please see atticus​ roness.net.

BEARING WITNESS: Although the members are

split between Athens and Naples, FL, from the sound and cohesiveness of the new EP Perfect Strangers, you’d be forgiven for thinking The New Architects never even occupied different rooms. Earlier this year the group released its album Hand Grenade

THE BRUTALITY CONTINUES: The sec-

ond annual instance of the two-­ day Threats and Promises (no relation) punk fest at the 40 Watt Club happens Friday and Saturday July 24 and 25. Music starts each evening at 5:30 p.m. Why? Because that’s the only way you’re going to host 37 bands across two days in one building. I’m not going to name all of ’em, but some true highlights are Mr. [Redacted], Regulator, Mortuary Ritual, Harsh Words, Centipede, Big Trouble, Crying Form, Bolt Swallower and Public Error. Tickets for each night are $15 in advance. That’s like, 81 cents a The New Architects band, y’all. New this year are free after-­parties each night. On Friday, Symphony, which was recorded in 2012 but the riot moves to the Nowhere Bar for sets had sat in the can since then. The new EP is from Catheter, Johnny Falloon and Bone Bag. On Saturday night all eyes turn toward a rock-­solid batch of five Ameri-­indie tracks that can count Husker Du, R.E.M., The The World Famous for DJ World Sodomy, Replacements, Dreams So Real and many Obscurity, Rauncher and Garbage For others as foundation entries into their Lust. For tickets and full lineup, please see musical dictionary. The New Architects real 40watt.com.

GROOVIN’ ON TUESDAY: State Botanical Garden of Georgia at UGA will host the next instance of the Sunflower Concert Series Tuesday, July 21 from 7–9 pm. The featured performers this time are The Original Splitz Band. For the unfamiliar, the band plays “a mix of classic Motown sound, part 1970s funk and disco flavor, with a dash of old-­school and contemporary R&B” in a set of material that features multiple old school classics. Tickets are $24 in advance for adults, $12 for ages 5–16, and free for those under 5. They are slightly higher at the door. Please see botgarden.uga. edu/sunflower-­concert-­series-­2 to purchase in advance.

GET BACK: Hooker Vision has released a live show by Pile Scraper, which is a project by current Athens resident Jeffry Astin. It’s titled Live in Athens, GA 12/19/2025. It was recorded at ATHICA on Dec. 19, 2025 by Andrew Chadwick of Florida’s Heirloom, who was also recorded live that night, and his set is available on a separate recording. Having not seen the show in question, I can still attest that this one track, nearly 21 minutes long, sounds hardware heavy. The album notes describe it as “loops of samples pulled from the outskirts of funk, soul, jazz and pop treated with massive doses of warped pitch, delay and distortion.”

But, the thing is, it’s both noisier and less accessible than the first part of that descriptor would imply. Listening to this often felt like being underneath the waves of an incoming tide with each lap of the shoreline gaining ground and less water receding at each pass. Eventually, it reaches a point of total submersion and saturation

such that surrender is the only option left.

Find it at hookervision.bandcamp.com.

BACK FROM THE STACKS: Hooker Vision also released the live recording of Orcus performing at work.shop on Apr. 25.

The group, a women’s improvisational drone collective, is composed of members Rashaun Ellis (improvised clarinet and e-­bowed bass), Rachel Evans (cello, electronics, gong and vocals), Leslie Grove (synthesizers and assorted auxiliary percussion), Stacy Harvey (improvised flute) and Mandy Mastrovita (bells, amplified buddha machine, chimes, toy piano and tuning forks). This recording was made by Mastrovita as well. While improvisational, this also goes through several movements of varying lengths and rewards. Now, of course, your mileage may vary, but I found this to be quite moving and meditative.

If you wanna press the gas, then do so at hookervision.bandcamp.com.

ISLAND LIVING: The Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF) will host the Tropical Breeze Steel Band on Saturday, July 18 from 7–9 p.m. The show takes place at OCAF Rocket Hall (34 School St., Watkinsville) and advance tickets are $23.18 (inclusive of fees), but OCAF members get a five dollar discount. The Tropical Breeze Steel Band was founded by Tony “Doc” McCutchen who is a former professor of percussion at UGA. For more information, please see facebook.com/ocaf1902, and for tickets head to OCAF-­Tropical-­Breeze.eventbrite.com.

SPELLBOUND: Dusty Gannon, in a new musical incarnation since the demise of Athens’ goth/death rockers Vision Video, has been quietly sneaking out some singles. His new project, Dusty Gannon and the Agonal Gasps, isn’t a huge departure from his previous work, but there are some specificities that longtime listeners should notice. For one, there’s markedly less keyboard work happening here. Also, on the new single “Blood God” at least, there’s a welcome shininess to the chorus that’s uplifting.

Find this as well as two other singles on major streaming services. And keep your fingers crossed that this all means an album is in the works. f

YOUR SECOND-FAVORITE REAL ESTATE TEAM

The Jarrett Martin Group jarrettmartingroup

Jarrett Martin, REALTOR® 229.869.5734

REALTOR® 706.201.7047

940 Prince Avenue Suite C | Athens, Georgia 30606 | 706.559.4520 | corcoranclassic.com ©2021 Corcoran Group LLC. All rights reserved. Corcoran® and the Corcoran Logo are registered service marks owned by Corcoran Group LLC. Corcoran Group LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

8

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

music

feature

Little Gold

ROOTING FOR THE PUBLIC DOG

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

A

lthough it was never intended to happen this way, Christian DeRoeck’s nostalgic rock project Little Gold has released its last three albums six years apart—allowing for a lot of life to happen in between. The latest of these releases is Public Dog, courtesy of Tall Texan Records and available on July 24.

DeRoeck’s lyricism draws windows into familiar and relatable moments of life, wrapped up in tinges of ’90s rock, power-­pop and lo-­fi country. The theme of those flashes of life tie into the title of this record, Public Dog, which is a term used when the general public is betting heavily on the underdog. “I just always rooted for the underdog, and I think that’s what informed a lot of this record and a lot of the ‘public dog’ thing, which is the lovable underdog that everyone’s rooting for,” says DeRoeck.

HUNTER PINKSTON

The lapse of time and DeRoeck being self-­described as “notoriously slow at finishing songs” has contributed to Little Gold’s ebb and flow of genre influences. DeRoeck says a lot of what he grew up loving as a teenager has influenced his songwriting, like Dinosaur Jr., Teenage Fanclub and Pavement. But as he got older, he found a love for country music. Playing with Little Gold bassist Brandon Page, who has a strong understanding of country but grew up playing punk and hardcore music, brought an interesting twist of influences. DeRoeck says that he tries to lean into whoever is in the band so that their experiences and styles shine through.

Little Gold started in 2009 when DeRoeck was living in Brooklyn, NY, and he continued the project as his main songwriting vehicle when he moved to Athens in 2012. But he’s always wanted it to feel like a band rather than a group of hired musicians to back him up.

“I want that feeling of we’re all in this together, and it’s not always easy to ride the line where it’s like this is my project, but we’re a band. You have to find the right people, and it sometimes takes a long time,” says DeRoeck.

One of the biggest influences on Public Dog has been DeRoeck’s experience playing with Ryan Davis & the Roadhouse Band. DeRoeck and Davis have known each other since his Brooklyn days, when Little Gold played a show with Davis’ band State Champion. Having stayed in touch all these years, DeRoeck started playing guitar for the Roadhouse Band a few years ago.

“I had done a lot of touring previously, but it had been a while. The last two years we have done more touring than I’ve ever done in my life, and on a level that’s a little bit higher than what I had done in the past,” says DeRoeck.

“It’s just a really amazing group of players. I think just playing with that group of people kind of inspired me to get better… It’s the confidence in the material and trust in my bandmates and myself to be like, ‘This is going to be awesome.’ I’m really proud of this record. I think it’s the best thing we’ve ever done.”

DeRoeck is currently coming off a tour with the Roadhouse Band opening for Kurt Vile, and is preparing for a short run of Little Gold shows, including the album release show promoted by Attaboy Tapes at Flicker Theatre and Bar on July 24. While excited for his own album release, DeRoeck says that it looks like something different at this stage of his life than it would have in his younger years. After July he’s putting the touring on hold as he eagerly awaits the birth of his daughter in September.

“Now that I’m a little older, I’m less worried about [forcing it too much].

You can only control what you can control. You make the music, you hope people like it, and you play the shows you can play,” says DeRoeck.

“And this year, I mean, I feel insanely blessed.”

Similarly, while he says that he’s always romanticized the idea of being able to spend time going into seclusion to record and leaving with an album, that hasn’t been realistic.

Public Dog was recorded as time and money allowed at The Glow by Jesse Mangum, taking one or two days at a time at the studio over the course of two years. Despite how long the process took, DeRoeck says that Mangum really saw the vision that he had for the album and was a smooth collaborator.

Overall the album boasts an impressive list of Athens musicians, including Julia Barfield, Drew Beskin, Elisabeth Fuchsia, Michael Friday, Tyler Key and Stephen Payne.

While DeRoeck has reached the point where he says, “you can’t always put the band first,” he’s made the most of his efforts with some like-­minded collaborators who have delivered a collection of ear-­worm tunes. f

From Atari and Nintendo to Xbox and Playstation, we have it all!

We pay the most in the state for your video games!

Voted Best in Georgia for 2025

1055 Gaines School Rd Ste 110, Athens, GA 30605 (706) 521-8885

WHO: Little Gold, Grace Rogers, Nightingail WHEN: Friday, July 24, 8 p.m.

WHERE: Flicker Theatre & Bar HOW MUCH: $12

JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

9

Tuesday 14

event calendar

CLASSES: Microsoft Word: Styles, Themes and Templates (ACC Library) Learn how to create a word document and use themes, styles and more. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org CLASSES: Safety Tips for Summer (Athens Community Council on Aging) Learn how to stay cool in extreme heat with Bentley Adult Day Health Center director Sheila Dubose. 11 a.m. FREE! www. accaging.org CLASSES: Aromatherapy Skincare (OCAF) Learn how to blend essential oils for your skin type, understand safe dilution practices and create a custom aromatherapy product to take home. 6 p.m. $60 (members), $75 (non-​members). www.ocaf.com COMEDY: Take This! Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) The troupe will perform improv skits featuring suggested movies and TV shows. 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.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 EVENTS: Pelacañas Rum Tasting (Tonique Bottle Co.) Drop in to sample different styles of rum. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.shoptonique.com FILM: OLLI Summer Film Festival (Ciné) This weekly film festival featuring best-​rated movies sponsored

by OLLI presents The Lives of Others. Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. $9. www. athenscine.com GAMES: Rock ’n Roll Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host The Music Man. Second Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/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: If Adventure Had a Name (Bogart Library) Join in an interactive cinematic adventure in search of archaeological discoveries. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly group, hear memoirs from others and learn tips on how to write your own. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

GAMES: Magic The Gathering and Pokemon Meet-​Up (Athentic Brewing Co.) Drop in to spend an evening playing games or matches.

Third Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco GAMES: Love.Craft Bingo Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) A bingo event benefiting the nonprofit orga-

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

Wednesday 15 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: Backpacking Basics (REI) Learn the best way to properly pack and carry a hiking pack, trail safety, trip planning and more. 5:30 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

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

BMA DESIGNS (1354 South Milledge Ave.) An art installation featuring floral works by Sarah Mason is on display. Through August.

DONDEROS’ KITCHEN (590 N. Milledge Ave.) Whimsical artworks by Susan Pelham are on display. Through August.

GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) 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.

HABIBI ART (160 Tracy St., Unit 4, Ste. 10) A free open studio event will be held as part of Third Thursdays on July 16, 6–9 p.m.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) “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

10

EVENTS: Craft Night (G H O S T) Drop in after hours to enjoy community crafting, music and more.

7–9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/ghost.athens FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1993 comedy action film Future Cops. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker​ theatreandbar.com GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

Southern artist Trish Jones’ exhibition at MAGallery features alla prima acrylic paintings. An opening reception will be held July 17 from 6–8 p.m.

GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia

nization Love.Craft Athens. Third Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m. $3–5. www.lovecraftathens.org GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia

submitted by the public. Through Aug. 29. • “Excursions in Ukraine” features photographs by Stephen Humphreys. 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. • “It Came to Me in a Dream” features paintings by self-­taught Georgia artist Valton Murray exploring dreamlike landscapes and abstract forms rooted in memory and personal history. July 16–Oct. 10. Opening reception July 16, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • “Interwoven” features paintings and ceramic sculptures

by Athens-­based artist Jennifer Heynen inspired by the coast, combining loose brushwork with free-­form weaving in yarn, string, wire, beads and sequins. July 16–Oct. 10. Opening reception July 16, 5:30–7:30 p.m. • In the Lobby Case is “Critters,” which features colorful cut-­tin figures by Steven Burnley that blend human and animal forms. July 23–Sept. 26.

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.

MAGALLERY (125 W. Jefferson St., Madison) An exhibition by self-taught Southern artist Trish Jones features alla prima acrylic paintings. Opening reception July 17, 6–8 p.m. Through Aug. 27.

OCAF (34 School St. Watkinsville) In the Main Gallery, “Southworks” showcases a variety of mediums juried by Beth Malone and Rachel Waldrop.

general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia KIDSTUFF: Shadow Puppets (Oconee County Library) Join Mr.

Damon for an interactive puppetry experience. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m.

FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ oconee

Thursday 16 ART: Opening Reception (Lyndon House Arts Center) Valton Murray’s exhibition “It Came to Me in a Dream” and Jennifer Heynen’s exhibition “Interwoven” will be on view. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse ART: Opening Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Cecilia Reynolds’ exhibition “rivers, roots, and bones” will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyath​ gallery.com CLASSES: Yoga in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) Enjoy a yoga class in the art galleries led by instructors from Yoga and Pilates for the People. Open to all skill levels. First come, first served. 6 p.m.

FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org 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 EVENTS: Battle of the Breweries Blood Drive (Athentic Brewing Co.) Donors of all blood types are encouraged to contribute. Registration required. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.redcrossblood.org EVENTS: Plant & Seed Swap (ACC Library) Share and swap outdoor and indoor plants and seeds. 4–6 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org FILM: Pather Panchali (Ciné) Screening of the 1955 drama film with a live film history podcast hosted by Aaron Strand of Behind the Slate and free Indian street food.

7 p.m. (doors) 8 p.m. (show) $15. www.athenscine.com GAMES: Bingo (VFW Post 2872) Support local veterans at this game night with prizes. Thursdays, 5 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (game). www.facebook.com/AthensVFWPost2872 GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens

Through July. • “Art in the Family” presents multi-­medium works by OCAF members and volunteers. Through July.

TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Artist Cecilia Reynolds will have works on view in the exhibition “rivers, roots, and bones.” Opening reception July 16, 6–9 p.m. Artist talk July 19, 2–5 p.m. Closing reception July 30, 6–9 p.m. Through July.

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.

WINTERVILLE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER (371 N. Church St., Winterville) In the Narrow Gallery, “This and That” features collages and wall works by Jack Burk. Opening reception July 24, 5–7 p.m. Through Sept. 15. • In Gallery 1, “Art: Through the Decades” features works by the late artist and folklorist Art Rosenbaum. Opening reception July 24, 5–7 p.m. On display July 17–Sept. 15. • In Gallery 2, “Layers” is a juried Members exhibit with works in a variety of mediums. Opening reception July 24, 5–7 p.m. On display July 17–Sept. 15. • In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, “Rebellious Art, Treasonous Artists” is on view in Room 103. Through December.

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: Meet & Greet with The Very Hungry Caterpillar (ACC Library) Meet author Eric Carle’s famous children’s book character, make crafts and take photos. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org KIDSTUFF: Read to Rover (Bogart Library) Drop in to read a story to certified therapy dog Maisy Jane.

Ages 4 & up. 4 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart KIDSTUFF: Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library) Join a volunteer-​run gaming session open to all skill levels. Grades 6–12. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Friday 17 ART: Opening Reception (MAGallery) An exhibition by artist Trish Jones features alla prima acrylic paintings on view. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.themadisonartistsguild.org CLASSES: LEGO Printmaking (ACC Library) Learn how to design and make print art using LEGOs. All ages. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org CLASSES: Cycling Basics (REI) Learn about various bikes types and essential gear, trip planning and safety fundamentals. 5:30 p.m.

FREE! www.rei.com COMEDY: The Hothouse (Flying Squid Comedy) An improv comedy show airing out personal problems featuring Shamala Gallagher, Paige Dixon, Bradley Bazzle and Matt House with special guest Rumination Social Hour. 8 p.m. $10. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a new roleplaying game. New play-

ers welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.com KIDSTUFF: Meet and Greet with The Very Hungry Caterpillar (Bogart Library) Drop in to meet author Eric Carle’s famous children’s book character. 11 a.m.

FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart MEETINGS: Creative Athenians (Hendershot’s) Connect with fellow creatives during this relaxed and informal monthly gathering. Third Fridays, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com OUTDOORS: Starry Night Stroll (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about constellations then play a galaxy game. 9:30 p.m. $5 per person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill​ Bridge

Saturday 18 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: Bag of Books Sale (Front Porch Bookstore) Browse books for sale. Saturdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $10/bag. Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook 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 and more.

Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. www. marigoldcollectivewinterville.com EVENTS: Journey through the Stars: Summer Skies (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Learn about the night sky with an immersive planetarium program. Ages 5 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. $5 (ACC residents), $8 (non-​residents). www.accgov.com/myrec EVENTS: Abnormal Bazaar (Indie South) This market features vendors selling soaps, jewelry, vintage, vinyl and more. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. www. theindiesouth.com EVENTS: Terrific T-​Rex Tomes (Bogart Library) Discuss Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1912 book The Lost World and enjoy trivia, dino-​themed talks and more. Ages 12 & up. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart EVENTS: 16th Annual Tomatoes at Terrapin (Terrapin Beer Co.) The Athens Wellness Clinic’s family-​ friendly fundraiser event features music and sandwiches with locally grown tomatoes. 4​​–7 p.m. $40. www.athenswellnessclinic.org EVENTS: Ales for ALS (Athentic Brewing Co.) Celebrate the release

of Counterpunch ale benefiting ALS research with representatives of Ales for ALS, raffle prizes, live music and more. 5–10 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Pathfinder Society RPG (Tyche’s Games) Come and adventure with the Pathfinder Society. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Rec Room Books) Enjoy a morning of storytelling with Rachel. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/recroombooks MEETINGS: Atheist Society of Athens (ACC Library) A reality-​based, non-​prophet organization. 4 p.m.

FREE! www.atheistsocietyathens.org OUTDOORS: 5K Trail Run (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join a ranger led run around the park. 9:30 a.m. $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/WatsonMill​ Bridge OUTDOORS: Fish Survey (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join a ranger led capture and count of fish on Big Cloud Creek. 1 p.m. $5 per person, $10 parking pass/vehicle. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge OUTDOORS: Moth Safari (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Join UGA entomologists to capture and study a variety of bugs. 9:15 p.m. $10 parking pass/vehicle. www.gastate​ parks.org/WatsonMillBridge

Sunday 19 ART: Artist Talk (tiny ATH gallery) Cecilia Reynolds will discuss her works in the exhibition “rivers, roots, and bones.” 2–5 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.com ART: Sunday Afternoon Tour (Georgia Museum of Art) This drop-​in public tour features highlights of the permanent collection. 3 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org CLASSES: New Student Beginner Yoga (Shakti Power Yoga) Beginner-​friendly class offering a slower-​ paced introduction to the studio’s yoga. Registration required. 11 a.m.

FREE! www.shaktiyogaathens.com COMEDY: Comedy Showcase (The Globe) Athens Comedy hosts themed and general showcases of local and regional comedians.

Sundays, 9 p.m. www.athens​comedy.com EVENTS: Breast Friends Forever (Grail Bra Specialists) Learn about breast cancer risk factors and ways you can take charge of your breast health. Registration required. 12 p.m. FREE! tinyurl.com/Breast​ HealthEvent EVENTS: Dog Adoption Event (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join Macs Friends Animal Rescue and meet adoptable pups. 2–5 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com EVENTS: International Chess Day Celebration (Athentic Brewing Co.) Chess and Community hosts its 2nd annual family-​friendly celebration featuring a tri-​city chess tournament, live music, food trucks and more. 2–5 p.m. FREE! www. chessandcommunity.org

EVENTS: Founder’s Day Celebration (Steffen Thomas Museum of Art) There will be a new exhibit opening, selected works on view, food, beverages, raffles and more.

4–7 p.m. $100 (members), $125 (non-​members). www.steffen​ thomas.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 LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (Historic Athens Welcome Center) Author Ron Balthazor will read from A Book of Seasons and sign books.

3–5 p.m. www.historicathens.com SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org SPORTS: FIFA World Cup Watch Party (Akins Ford Arena) Watch the world cup on the big screen with giveaways and interactive fan experiences. 2 p.m. FREE! www. classiccenter.com

Monday 20 CLASSES: Dementia 101 (Athens Community Council on Aging) Learn about dementia, and its signs, symptoms, impact on individuals and families, and how to find support networks. Registration required. 11 a.m. FREE! www. myactivecenter.com EVENTS: Oconee County Contra Dance (Social Dance Preserve) Community dance night on first and third Mondays. 7 p.m. (beginner lesson), 8–10 p.m. (dance). $10. www.oconeecountycontra.com FILM: Bad Movie Night (Ciné) A technician is drawn into a sinister web as he investigates a series of deadly accidents in the Euro-​trashy delight The Lift. 8 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/BadMovieNight GAMES: Chess and Community (ACC Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. Mondays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett.

Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccity​ triviaco GAMES: Trivia with Marissa (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Test your

Support Local Journalism Local journalism comes with a cost: Salaries, freelance pay, printing, website maintenance, rent…it all ads up.

Help us keep flagpole FREE for our readers.

Consider tossing us a buck or two.

trivia knowledge with host Marissa.

8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar. com KIDSTUFF: Storytelling with Miss Donna (Bogart Library) Stop by for tall tales and exciting storytime adventures. 1 p.m. FREE! www. athens​library.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Third Monday Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome.

7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

Tuesday 21 COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 8:30 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com EVENTS: Tiki Taco Tuesday (Live Wire) Enjoy craft cocktails and a taco pop-​up from Don Carne with themed weeks, live music and dancing. Tuesdays, 5–10 p.m. www.livewireathens.com FILM: OLLI Summer Film Festival (Ciné) This weekly film festival featuring best-​rated movies sponsored

by OLLI presents Sorry To Bother You. Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. $9. www. athenscine.com GAMES: Bad Dog Bingo (The Globe) Drop in to play and win prizes.

6–8:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens GAMES: Dino Bingo (Bogart Library) Enjoy an afternoon of fun games and prizes with dinosaur themed games. All ages. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart 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

LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss Hooked by Asako Yuzuki with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 22 ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-​in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgia​museum.org ART: Pints & Paint (Terrapin Beer Co.) Drop in for a guided painting session. 6:30 p.m. $10. www.terrapin​beer.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: Magic Show (Oconee County Library) Join magician Keith Karnock for a comedy magic show about paleontology and archeology.

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 PERFORMANCE: Open Mic (G H O S T) A performance opportunity for a variety of creative expression. Sign-​ up required. 7 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/ghost.athens f

DONATE A FEW BUCKS With a recurring donation via PayPal: (https://flagpole.com/home/donations) mail in a check: flagpole, PO Box 1027,Athens, GA 30603 or you can make a tax-deductible contribution at: altnewsfoundation.org/flagpole

JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

11

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 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 FOR RENT (Cottage) 1BR cottage 2 blocks from campus. Full kitchen, W/D and water included. Avail. Aug 1. $1500/month. tinroofsrusted@ gmail.com SERVICES (Classes) SUMMER CAMPS at Merit Music Academy are now open! Songwriting, Rock ’n Roll, Piano, and even Puppetry and Comedy camps. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or 9 a.m.–5 p.m. options available.

Read more at MeritMusicAcademy. com/camps.

SERVICES (Financial) Bookkeeping for Athens nonprofits, small businesses & makers. QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor, now booking 2026. Locally kept. Text Sam 706-​ 386-​0281. www.beeskneesbook​ keeping.com SERVICES (Health) JAMES HILTON HYPNOSIS 678-​895-​4278, www. hiltonhypnosis.org SERVICES (Health) HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING: Integrating herbalism, mindfulness and movement for a whole body approach.

706-​343-​3576, connect@cora​ ros​ewellness.com, www.corarose​ wellness.com

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 of smaller sculptures. Deadline to apply is Friday, July 24. www. accgov.com, tatiana.veneruso@ accgov.com

CALL FOR GRANT APPLICATIONS (AthFest Educates) Applications for the 2026-​2027 grant cycle are now available. Applicants planning to use music and/or arts as a teaching and learning mechanism for core education are encouraged to apply. Certain criteria must be met. Deadline Aug. 26 and grantees announced sometime in September. www.athfesteducates.org/ grants/apply-​for-​a-​grant 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 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/lyndonhouse

ADOPT ME!

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

King Kong(60989127)

King Kong is a sweet boy who’s always smiling and wiggling with joy. He knows lots of tricks like offering his paw to shake and lying down on command, and he’ll show them off for treats!

Chicken Salad (60931511) Little Chicken Salad is an adorable three-year-old cat who’s been living at the shelter since May. She would love to find her furever home, so consider adopting or fostering her today!

Sparkle(60239853)

Sparkle is seven years old, but she still has tons of energy! She’s great with people and other dogs, very cuddly and already well-trained, so she’d be an easy addition to any family.

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

12

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

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 SEEKING ZINE ART & IDEAS (Suburban Vermin) Accepting submissions for art, craft ideas, poetry and more for free local publication.

Message @suburban.vermin.zine on Instagram.

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-​237-​ 2354, 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 & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including ESL (Tuesdays and Thursdays), Knit Lits Knitting (Thursdays) and more.

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

CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Winterville Cultural Center, Winterville) Flow Yoga & Pilates (Monday), Yoga in the Gallery (Wednesdays), Chair Yoga & Creative Cafe (Thursdays) and more. www.winterville​ center.com CLASSES, PROGRAMS & TOURS (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Various ongoing weekly events including Guided Plant Walk (Tuesdays–Fridays), Porcelain and Decorative Arts Tour (Tuesdays), Free Sketch (Fridays) and more. botgarden.uga.edu CLASSES, PROGRAMS & WORKSHOPS (OCAF, Watkinsville) Registration now open for extended session pottery classes, art instruction and more. www.ocaf.com/ courses CUBAN SALSA LESSONS (El Carretonero) SALSAthens offers multiple

classes for different skill levels.

Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. (advanced) and 7:30 p.m. (beginner/intermediate). $10 drop in. www.SALS​ AthensDancing@gmail.com DANCE CLASSES (The Studio) 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. Registration required. www.timbathens. com/events.

DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The dance center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/ myrec FALL PROGRAM REGISTRATION (Athens, GA) The Leisure Services Department offers a diverse selection of classes and activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events for both adults and children. Registration opens Aug. 1 for residents and Aug. 3 for non-​ residents. www.accgov.com/myrec FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfreeschool on Instagram.

FREE YOGA CLASSES (Shakti Yoga) Free new student beginner yoga. July 19, 11 a.m. Registration required. www.shaktiyogaathens. com/events

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 COUCH CRASHERS (ACC Animal Services Department) A short-​term foster initiative to provide shelter dogs with the chance to experience the comfort of a home environment over weekends and holiday weekends for one to three days. All needed items provided. Opportunities throughout the year. www.acc​ gov.com/couchcrashers

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

MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUNTEERS (Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living) Seeking volunteers to assist a nonprofit agency that serves individuals living with disabilities throughout a 10-​country area of Northeastern Georgia. 706-​850-​4025, dmyers@ multiplechoices.us PET FOOD PANTRY (Animal Services Adoption Center) The Animal Services community pet food pantry provides pet food support to ACC residents at no cost. Donations always welcome. Monday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sundays, 12–3 p.m. www.accgov.com/ adoption​center PET SUPPLY DRIVE (Lyndon House Arts Center) Seeking toys, towels, treats and all types of cat/dog food.

In conjunction with the Community Pet Portrait Exhibit benefiting ACC Animal Services. Donations accepted during business hours through July. www.accgov.com/ lyndonhouse SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. the​ biggervisionshelter@gmail.com, www.bvoa.org/boardmember SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Moms Adopting Moms) Local nonprofit seeks board members, including a chair and treasurer, to support foster children and families through mentorship and reunification. momsadoptingmoms@ gmail.com SEEKING DONATIONS (The Cottage) Seeking donations of single-​serving, non-​perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-​off please call 706-​546-​1133, ext 223.

SEEKING DONATIONS (Hands of Hope) Local homeless ministry accepting donations of clothing for their free distribution program and fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting the program. 706-​207-​ 5172 SEEKING DONATIONS (RIP Book Club) Local book club seeking donations of any genre of old books to stock Little Libraries around town. Email ripbookclubathens@ gmail.com for updated drop off location or to arrange pick up.

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.acc​ gov.com/animalservices 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 GRAND SLAM SUMMER PROGRAM (Lay Park) Evenings include games, giveaways, guest speakers, life enrichment activities, music, refreshments, sports and more. For ages 11–17. Fridays through July 24, 6–9 p.m. www.accgov.com/ grandslam 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 SUMMER CAMP (Canopy Studios) Registration for a variety of day camp dates for grades K-​12 is now available. www.canopystudio.org/ class-​schedule/camps SUMMER CAMP (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

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. $25 per market or $80 for the full four-​market series. www.athens​ welcomecenter.com CITY TOURS (Historic Athens Welcome Center) A variety of guided tours available including a daily shuttle tour, walking tour of the downtown area and local music tour. Schedule in advance. www. athenswelcomecenter.com COMMUNITY RUNNING GROUPS (Athens Road Runners) Weekly community runs for all skill levels including Speed Workout (Wednesdays, 5:30 a.m.) and Fun Runs (Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m. & Saturdays, 7:15 a.m.). www.athens​ roadrunners.org 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

Missing Something?

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

We're Hiring!

WWW. EPTINGEVENTS.COM/CAREERS

Support Local Journalism Local journalism comes with a co$t: Salaries, freelance pay, printing, website maintenance, rent…it all ads up.

Help us keep flagpole FREE for our readers.

Consider tossing us a buck or two.

DONATE a few bucks

With a recurring donation through PayPal (https://flagpole.com/home/donations)

or mail a check to

flagpole

P O Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603

JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

13

music

feature

arts & culture

feature

Aquarium Drunkard

Summer Reads

By Mary Beth Bryan music@flagpole.com

By Libba Beaucham arts@flagpole.com

21ST ANNIVERSARY OF AN ATHENS-­INDEBTED MUSIC JOURNAL

By

the mid-­’90s, the dust had hardly settled from the meteoric rise of bands like R.E.M. and The B-­52s in the decade prior, but the Athens music scene was already resurging. It was defined by a sense of community and DIY ethic, with the Elephant 6 Collective’s myriad lineups, Vic Chesnutt, The Glands, Five Eight and more leading the way. This is when Justin Gage, future founder of independent music journal Aquarium Drunkard, arrived in the city to attend the University of Georgia.

Gage came to Athens with a pre-­existing affinity for music. “I grew up in Atlanta with a music-­obsessive father, so the seeds were planted pretty early,” he explains. He had a vast collection of records, cassettes and CDs, used a reel-­to-­reel deck to make his own mixes and record local late-­ night jazz programs, and traded music through the mail with his best friend from college. These habits instilled what Gage describes as a “constant sense of discovery and exchange” that would go on to become the foundation of his own musical ventures.

Justin Gage By the start of high school, Fugazi and the greater Dischord Records web had also made their marks on Gage, who was attracted to the independent intention behind their work and “the idea that you could build something on your own terms.” He says that later moving to Athens “expanded that impulse.” He soon connected with folks as dedicated as he was via the familiar channels: his first job in town at a record store, attending house parties, reading Ballard Lesemann and Ort in Flagpole, crate digging and absorbing the diverse local scene.

After college and a stint working for dot coms in Atlanta, Gage relocated to Los Angeles. He started Aquarium Drunkard—named after a Wilco lyric—in 2005 as a way to talk about music with friends located across the country. Within a year it had turned heads on a much wider scale, connecting strangers over a shared love for leaning into the niche and obscure and tracing musical dots across time and space.

Over the past two decades, the outlet has expanded organically, publishing reviews and interviews, producing radio programs and podcasts, curating archives, releasing records and “creating contexts for people to encounter sounds they might not otherwise find.”

Though Gage hasn’t lived in Athens for quite some time, the ethos of the city’s music scene still has fingerprints all over Aquarium Drunkard. The city showed him

14

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JULY 15, 2026

“that music could be an ecosystem, not just a scene. People had bands, labels, radio shows, studios, record stores, zines and lofts full of records, and they all fed one another. There wasn’t much distinction between audience and participant.”

Aquarium Drunkard has never been about following hype or being part of the PR machine, but rather cultivating a distinct point of view and communing with an audience that’s curious and engaged. In the same spirit as Athens’ multi-­faceted music scene, the journal is “a space where a newly released ambient record can sit comfortably alongside a forgotten dub 45, a spiritual jazz session or a strange, private-­ press folk LP from 50 years ago.” Gage says that it’s all about following natural interests and trusting that the audience will want to come along.

Gage has continued to be entwined with Athens music in more tangible ways, as well. Concurrent with starting Aquarium Drunkard, he founded a label called Autumn Tone Records whose first release was a solo album from the late Athens musician Daniel Hutchens (Bloodkin). It was through the making of this record that Gage met David Barbe (Sugar, Mercyland and head of UGA’s Music Business Program), who tracked the album at his studio, Chase Park Transduction.

Later on, a group of Chase Park interns went on to form the band Futurebirds, whose EP and debut full-­length record were also released on Autumn Tone in 2010. Now years down the line, Gage still makes yearly trips to speak with music business students about his career, and the publication even takes on UGA interns. When he’s in town, he can also be found flipping through the staff picks at Wuxtry Records, catching up with Barbe and Andrew Rieger (Elf Power) at The National or seeing a show at 40 Watt Club.

This May, Aquarium Drunkard finally hit legal drinking age. While Athenians enjoyed AthFest, the journal celebrated its 21st birthday with a two-­night event in L.A. featuring SML, Fabiano Do Nascimento, Genevieve Artadi and Reverberation Radio DJs. For a publication born humbly from a desire to share music with friends, Aquarium Drunkard’s longevity is noteworthy.

While music media has become increasingly driven by algorithms and promotional cycles, it has endured by the same principles as Athens’ music scene: curiosity, exploration and the belief that a passionate community of listeners will always find one another. f

PUBLISHED WORKS BY LOCAL AUTHORS

A

thens is a community of creatives including writers of all genres and forms. This week we’re highlighting new works published this year by local authors for your summer reading.

Alchemy & Passion: A Poetry Collection of Love, Healing, Feminine Power, and Becoming by Savannah Rose Johnson A collection of poetry exploring emotional healing, embodiment and self-­ reclamation with a focus on the feminine experience. eclipse​evolution.com Artistic Alchemy by Manda McKay This collection of 33 paintings by McKay includes her statements on feminist-­ inspired nature art, drawing on her background as a medical and veterinary illustrator turned painter. manda​mckay.com The Artorian Chronicles by Nicholas Mrvos Alyssa Artoria discovers a distant habitable planet that offers hope for humanity’s future, but reaching it means surviving Mars and mastering warp technology. Once there, she and her daughter Liora must guide a fragile colony through crises. nicholas​mrvos. com A Book of Seasons by Ron Balthazor A poignant collection of reflections and meditations about life on a small farm in Georgia inspired by the works of Transcendentalist writers. See Flagpole’s interview with Balthazor in the May 13 issue. abook​ ofseasons.com How to Date a Fanatic by Aruni Kashyap A young professor returning to teach at Delhi University navigates unrequited love while rising political tensions spark a student movement. Set against contemporary India’s political landscape, the novel explores queer identity, connection and hope amid upheaval. arunikashyap.com I Took the Pieces You Threw Away by Jordan Poole This memoir by Poole, historic preservationist and founding executive director of the Paradise Garden Foundation, tells the story of how folk artist Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden was saved to become a cultural, educational and arts resource. postmodern​g ypsy.com In the Shadow of the Architect by Bradley Bazzle This collection of stories explores family, belonging and identity through characters in transitional periods of life. The title nods to one of the stories in which a boy befriends the daughter of a recently deceased, larger-­than-­life architect whose legacy looms over both their lives. uwpress. wisc.edu Late Heaney by Nicholas Allen This book analyzes Seamus Heaney’s final four poetry collections through the landscapes, friendships and influences of his later life and career. global.oup.com

Much Love From Paris: Letters to My Family (1928–30) Edited by Nelda Damiano Published by the Georgia Museum of Art, this edited collection of letters, photographs, drawings and other materials by American artist Louise Heron Blair chronicles her 1927 move to Paris, her marriage to Spanish artist Pierre Daura, and her life in the Paris avant-­garde art scene. Available at the Georgia Museum of Art or Amazon. georgiamuseum.org Nanny Crumpet by A.C. Ham In this children’s book, siblings Johnny and Rosie Driver have their summer turned upside down when their new Nanny Crumpet brings chaos and magic into their lives. achambutonline.com Nowhere to Run by Bobby Nash When a prisoner transfer plane crash lands on a frozen mountaintop, Deputy U.S. Marshal William Teague and a local guide must reach the summit in an attempt to rescue survivors and recover an escaped fugitive before a deadly winter storm traps them all. bobby​nash.com Poemigrant(e)s by Beto Cacao This debut poetry collection documents the stories and struggles of the migrant and Hispanic community by activist, musician and poet Beto Cacao, who helped to form immigrant rights group Dignidad Inmigrante en Athens. Read Flagpole’s interview with Cacao in the Apr. 28 issue. betocacao. com Rascal’s Redemption by Howard T. Scott This sequel to Scott’s Rascal on the Run is a legal thriller and family drama in which Athens attorney Critter Stillwell attempts to escape his late father’s past. howard​t​scott. com Rough House by Alison Lyn Miller This nonfiction account of aspiring pro-­ wrestler Hunter James is immersed in the world of indie wrestling and shares the challenges and successes of James’ fight to make it pro. Read Flagpole’s interview with Miller in the Mar. 11 issue. alison​lyn​miller. com The Rules of Blackstone: The War for Ardenmark by Brian Buffington This debut fantasy novel follows Maxen, a powerful Mystic in the fortressed city of Blackstone as alliances crumble and rumors spread that an ancient exiled enemy may return. amazon.com Thirteen Moons and a Day – Poems on Seasons Relived by Bob Ambrose, Jr. This collection of late-­life poetry reflects on the changing seasons and the quiet joy found in nature. Inspired largely by the north Georgia piedmont, the collection includes an interlude of poems set along the Carolina coast and in Vermont, Maine, Hawaii, England and Scotland. thirteen-­ moons.com f

SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Medium

2 3 7

1 4

1 7 6 4 9

FIVE STARS ON ZILLOW

7 3 9 2

WITH OVER 900 HOMES SOLD

O:706-510-5189

3

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 37/13/26 by 3 boxes must contain Week - 7/19/26 the numbers 1 to 9.

The Weekly Crossword 2

3

4

5

6

7

8

by Margie E. Burke 9

10

15

14 17

11

12

13

29

30

53

54

16 19

18 21

20 23

VOTED ATHENS FAVORITE REALTOR 2015-2026

8 5

2 8 4 3 5 7

1

CORD SIBILSKY

22

24 25 Solution to Sudoku:

2 3 7 261 275 4 6 9 8 31 4 329 336 2 3 8 7 534 1 37 38 2 4 39 8 5 1 6 7 9 3 41 7 6 4 3 428 5 2 143 9 47 7 3 48 45 9 1 5 464 2 6 8 50 3 2 498 9 1 7 4 6 5 55 1 568 2 5 6 3 9 457 7 6 4 3 7 9 1 5 60 61 8 2 59 5 7 9 8 4 2 1 3 6 63 62

28 35

44

66

65

ACROSS 1 Yoga position 6 Campus mil. grp.

10 Firebird roof option 14 Wood for chests 15 "Dedicated to the ___ Love": 1960s hit 16 Endings with aster and human 17 Delilah portrayer 19 Plural of Mrs. 20 Urban blemishes 21 One of the Kennedys 23 Cry from a crib 24 Big name in tortilla chips 26 Boot camp reply 28 Marriott rival 31 Bygone Belgian airline 34 Bone-dry 36 "C'est la ___!"

37 Some may rest on theirs 39 Listers on eBay 41 Schubert's "The ___-King" 42 Vegas lake 44 Shoots daggers (at) 45 City of India

36 40

51

52

58

64 67

Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

47 Some action cameras 49 Believe strongly 51 Piece of wood 55 Switzerland, to the French 57 Prepare oneself 59 USAF rank 60 At least 62 Will-___-wisp 63 Persia, today 64 Sporty Chevy, for short 65 Tolkien series, briefly 66 Untouchable Eliot 67 Asks too many questions DOWN 1 Longed (for) 2 "I'm outta here" 3 Summed up 4 Skeptical sort 5 Guthrie of music 6 Ladies' men 7 The "O" in Jackie O 8 Artist Gerard ___ Borch 9 Wispy clouds 10 Peppermint Patty, for one 11 Multitasking, e.g.

12 Polish border river 13 Furtive summons 18 Gallery event 22 Shakespeare tragedy 25 Very, in Vichy 27 Combatants 29 Grow weary 30 Dick Tracy's love 31 Snow coaster 32 Swiss river 33 Matador's event 35 Feels sorry about 38 Hangs loose 40 "Toy Story" director John 43 Gen. MacArthur 46 Prynne of "The Scarlet Letter" 48 Primps 50 Red Square figure 52 Christine of "Evil" 53 "It's ___!" ("You're on!")

54 Actress Daly and others 55 Small runway craft, for short 56 "From all of __ all of you" 58 Invitation letters 61 Miner's find

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

|

C:706-363-0803

|

CSG-GAP.COM

Cool Down & Lube Up

20% OFF ALL COOLING LUBES

For the month of July with code STAYCOOL In-store and online at ShopStarship.com 4100 Lexington Road - ShopStarship JULY 15, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

15

If you are in crisis It s almost due to domestic If you youare are in crisis due to domestic If violence, Phil in crisis due to domestic violence,Phil Graduate wants violence, Hughes Athens Honda wants Hughesyou Honda you tofind findhelp. help. to wants you to find help. When you are struggling to meet the demands of a ‘

BACK TO

school

If you are in crisis due to domestic Are you controlling and jealous partner it is hard to plan for up to date the future. Project Safe has advocates available to help violence, Classic on your vaccines? you sort through what options are available to you, City Orthodontics and how you can stay safe while you explore options.

All services are free and confidential. wants you If you youare areinincrisis crisisdue due domestic If to to domestic to find help.

706-543-3331 violence, Graduate Athens wants

Athens area Health DepartmentS

violence, Phil Hughes Honda wants you to tofind findhelp. help. Hotline, 24 hours/day you If your partner objects when you use the phone, Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia When you family are struggling meet the demands of a limits your everyday contact with andtofriends, NortheasTHealthDistrict.org controlling and jealous partner it is hard to plan for and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive the future. Project Safe has advocates available to help confrontations, you need to back and take are available to you, youstep sort through what options and how you can stay safe you explore options. another look. How can you cope once you arewhile involved All services are free and confidential. with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe for help.

Our hotline is confidential,706-543-3331 and counseling is free.

Get your life back. Get help.Hotline, 24 hours/day

706-543-3331

Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia

Hotline, 24 hours/day

Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia