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 Amanda Johnson, Gordon Lamb, Merritt Melancon
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
Boos for ADUs
COMMISSIONERS SHY AWAY FROM POTENTIAL HOUSING SOLUTION
By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com
The Athens- Clarke County Commission is likely to reject, for the second time, a proposal to allow small housing units in backyards, in basements or over garages as a way to address a housing shortage and high rents.
The proposal—which stemmed from a Georgia Initiative for Community Housing committee and a commission resolution, then passed through the ACC Planning Commission—is quite simple: It would allow a stove and oven in accessory dwelling units (ADUs), commonly known as in-law suites or granny flats. Yet it generated an outpouring of opposition at the commission’s July 21 agenda- setting meeting.
Guest houses have been allowed under the county zoning code for 20 years, according to Planning Director Bruce Lonnee, but they cannot have a fully functioning kitchen. “Presently, what we don’t have is the ability of an accessory dwelling unit to be independent of the main house,” he said.
A number of single- family houses, particularly in older in- town neighborhoods, already have them. “These walk among us. We have secondary developments all around town—Five Points, Normaltown, East Athens,” Lonnee said.
About two dozen people spoke against the text amendment. Some cited concerns about parking or ADUs becoming shortterm rentals, or asked for restrictions, like limiting the ability to build an ADU to homeowners rather than rental property owners.
Others made wilder claims, like linking ADUs to Communism or comparing them to urban renewal projects that destroyed neighborhoods like Linnentown. Five Points resident Michael McClendon said the amendment would create “high-priced gulags” in single- family neighborhoods.
“The overwhelming effect of the zoning changes will be the end of single- family neighborhoods as we know them today, and the opening of the entire county to rental properties and short- term rentals,” Cedar Creek resident Fred Stevenson said. (Nothing currently prevents rentals in singlefamily neighborhoods.) “Our quality of life is going to change. Our home real estate prices will be threatened.”
Only a handful of speakers supported the ADU amendment. They cited the ability to provide housing for adult children or aging parents, or extra income from renting out an ADU that would allow them to stay in their homes.
“This is an easy, simple, moderate amendment to our existing code—certainly compared to what’s happening in other parts of the country—that would allow for homeowners to make the choice to develop a small portion of their property that would increase housing,” Newtown resident Sam Stabler said. Some cities, such as Minneapolis, have completely eliminated singlefamily zoning to spur housing construction.
Commissioner Melissa Link—who voted against ADUs in 2022 after her colleagues would not accept an amendment capping them at one bedroom—raised a litany of
concerns, such as parking, tree canopy loss, stormwater drainage and student gentrification. “This is a very complex issue that definitely warrants conditions,” she said.
Commissioners Ovita Thornton, Allison Wright, Tiffany Taylor, Stephanie Johnson and Dexter Fisher also stated they would either vote against it or vote to return it to the planning commission for more work.
ADU opponents overwhelmingly skewed toward seniors who have owned their homes for decades, and Commissioner Carol Myers asked for input from younger people who are more likely to bear the brunt of high housing costs. “I would like to hear from people who are 18–64 in this community what they want in terms of housing,” Myers said. “They’re not all students. Sixty percent of our people are renters, and are really struggling because of the high rent.”
“The Universal Studios/Disneyworld/ Carnival Cruise plan we had doesn’t work without $186 million [from the TAD],” Jennings said at a town hall meeting July 23 organized by Commissioner Stephanie Johnson.
A TAD is a tax allocation district, where future tax revenue from new development within a specific area is plowed back into that area to pay for infrastructure improvements. It’s a common economic development tool—used to help facilitate projects like the Atlanta Beltline and Atlantic Station, for example—but had never been used in Athens.
The contract between Jennings and ACC called for him to be reimbursed for certain expenses related to infrastructure, such as sidewalks and stormwater facilities. Since nothing has happened other than the demolition of a few outbuildings, The Leaven Group has not received any tax dollars. But the TAD remains in place, and ACC could tap into it for infrastructure projects around the mall property in the future.
“The bucket’s not going away. We’re just not asking to access it anymore,” said Jon Williams, president and CEO of W&A Engineering, the Athensbased firm designing the project.
“ We have secondary developments all around town—Five Points, Normaltown, East Athens.
A proposal to allow “tiny houses” was far less controversial. Currently new singlefamily homes must be at least 1,000 square feet in most single- family zones, or 600 square feet in the densest R- S zone or multifamily zones. Apartments cannot be less than 450 square feet.
Instead, ACC would rely on guidelines listed in the International Property Maintenance Code, a handbook the local government already uses for building inspections and code enforcement. Those offer “far more latitude” in overall size, Lonnee said, and provide minimum room sizes for the health and safety of the occupant. Citing a recent court ruling in Calhoun, Lonnee also said that arbitrary minimums like ACC’s current regulations could be illegal.
Mall Developer Will Go It Alone
The developer behind the Georgia Square Mall project has scrapped plans for a publicprivate partnership and says he will redevelop the property on his own.
Mark Jennings of The Leaven Group said he is dissolving his agreement with AthensClarke County and plans to move forward without using local tax revenue.
In 2023 the Athens- Clarke County Commission unanimously approved a $660 million plan for the dying mall that involved tearing down two wings, leaving the central food court area and department store Belk in place, and building apartments, townhouses, and new retail and office space. Jennings agreed to include community benefits like 100 below-market-rate apartments, walking and bike trails, greenspace, reduced rent for women- and minorityowned businesses, jobs for Clarke County public school graduates and minority contractors, space for after- school programs and a bus station. In exchange, the ACC government offered $186 million in future property tax revenue to help fund the project. Now, most of those goodies are likely off the table.
town Athens had to be built in one single moment, I don’t think anybody could do it,” he said.
The ACC Planning Commission will take up the overlay district at its Aug. 6 meeting, according to Lonnee. The overlay district will create more flexibility, as opposed to the current binding site plan, where everything must be built exactly as shown on paper and in a certain order, Lonnee said. The project could be built in phases over a long period of time.
The mall’s commercial-general zoning allows for buildings up to 65 feet high, but Williams said the requested overlay district would allow for heights up to 100 feet, except for areas adjacent to residential neighborhoods, where they would be limited to 45 feet. It would also double the maximum number of apartments from 25 bedrooms per acre in C-G zones to 50, or 75 if they’re for low-income renters—potentially about 4,000 bedrooms on the 78-acre property. Jennings is also seeking a waiver from a requirement for ground-floor retail in residential buildings, except those along Atlanta Highway, and permission to build townhouses in groups of eight rather than four.
Jennings said the restrictions of the TAD agreement prevented him from obtaining financing to move forward with construction. Instead of TAD funding, he is now asking for a special overlay district, which is a kind of zoning district tailored to a specific area.
Jennings also cited turnover in the manager’s office as a factor. The ACC government went through three interim managers in a year between Blaine William’s resignation in 2024 and the hiring of Bob Cowell in 2025, which left The Leaven Group “spinning our wheels,” he said.
ACC Planning Director Bruce Lonnee said he was not surprised that the project as previously envisioned didn’t work out due to its complexity and size—about the same as all of downtown. “If down-
Details remain to be seen. Until the overlay district is approved, Jennings said he will not go back to the drawing board on a new plan. “I don’t have a plan for you because I don’t have zoning,” he told a crowd of about 300. “I’m not going to spend one penny until I get my zoning approved.” Without TAD funding, it could, however, bear more resemblance to Jennings’ original plan from 2020, which included more than 1,000 apartments in buildings scattered around the parking lot, and was widely criticized for being too car- centric and lacking public amenities. That led to Mayor Kelly Girtz’s initial idea for a TAD to improve the project and the subsequent negotiations over community benefits. Even if other community benefits fall by the wayside, the transit station is likely to remain in place. Williams said The Leaven Group is still willing to turn over two acres of land to ACC to build it. “The transit facility is still very much on the table,” Lonnee said. f
A Hero’s Journey AGAINST THE ODDS, SCOTCH MADE IT HOME
By Merritt Melancon news@flagpole.com
This summer started pretty dark (like in a worried- for-humanity kind of way). So, in June, when I started seeing missing pet signs for Scotch the cat at every red light and intersection, my first thoughts were not positive.
“I hope Scotch is OK,” my daughter would chirp as we’d pull away from the intersections. “Things do not look good,” I’d think to myself as the weeks piled on.
150 weather-resistant flyers. At the height of her campaign, she was getting about 10 calls a day from people who thought they saw Scotch. Most often it was another black and gray tabby. She could usually tell it wasn’t going to be Scotch when the wellmeaning person would describe the cat’s personality.
Then a month and three days after Scotch vanished, someone rescued a skinny gray and black tabby from outside Cali N Tito’s on the Eastside and took him to a vet to check for a microchip. It was Scotch.
But as dire as things seemed, there was one woman who held out hope for Scotch’s return. For Augusta-based animal rescue advocate and proud cat person Crystal Eskola, Scotch was one of her best friends and a near- constant companion. “From the very minute I saw her, I knew she was different than most kittens,” Eskola said. “I started walking her on a leash with a harness as a baby.”
Scotch also excelled at being a car cat, riding with Eskola when she traveled around Georgia doing animal rescue work and beyond. They went everywhere together. “She can be sweet, but she’ll do what she wants to do,” Eskola said. “She’s very vocal. She’s very talkative. And call it dumb, call it brave or call it whatever you want, but when they say curiosity gets the cat—that’s her. That’s her personality.”
On June 11, Eskola was at the Athens Humane Society on animal rescue duty when she let Scotch out of the car off-leash to go to the bathroom. Although Scotch had dutifully gone to the bathroom and waited for Eskola to get back into the car dozens of times before, this time Scotch didn’t come back. Eskola scoured the area, but it became clear that one hundred miles from home in a strange city, Scotch was on her own. Her search for her cat involved blanketing west Athens with 65 yard signs and
As word of the good news spread across Instagram and Facebook groups and the Athens subreddit, it felt like palpable relief across town.
“It is ludicrous how pathologically invested my entire family has been in the welfare of a cat we’ve never met who belongs to people we don’t know,” wrote one Athenian redditor. “This is the best news since they got Bin Laden.”
“Hell yeah! My kids have been so sad seeing the signs around town,” wrote another. “Can’t wait to tell them.”
It’s not exactly clear how Scotch made it from Mitchell Bridge Road to Cedar Shoals Drive, but Eskola believes she probably hopped in a stranger’s car.
The woman who finally got Scotch back to the humane society to scan the microchip said that the cat had been taken in temporarily by a nice family with eight kids, so no telling what kinds of adventures she had during her prolonged vacation.
Eskola wants everyone in Athens to know how thankful she is for all the tips and all the concern the town shared over her lost little buddy, but she also wants to spread the word about microchipping.
“My biggest thing I’m pushing is that everybody should get their pets microchipped,” she said. “And keep their registration up to date. A lot of people get their pets microchipped, then they don’t follow through with registering them and updating their information. If the microchip’s not registered with the right phone number, they can’t call you if your pet is found.”
As for her and Scotch, they’re back traveling and having fun together with a new harness, a new GPS tracker and a new policy on bathroom breaks. f
Editor’s Note: Flagpole offers free Classifieds listings for lost pet notices. For more info, contact classifieds @flagpole.com.
SWMPY’S SUMMER SWAMPTACULAR Camp Amped bands perform for this special summer show. 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.
Rialto Club
Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). SOLD OUT! www.facebook.com/Aubrey EntertainmentAthensGA
KEVN KINNEY Lead singer and songwriter of the Atlanta rock band Drivin N Cryin.
PETER BUCK Co-founder and lead guitarist of Athens alt-rock legend
R.E.M.
The World Famous 9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous athens
CONFESSION KIDS Florida folk punks play an acoustic set.
TARYN CODY Playing folk sounds with punk values.
SAMURAI TEST DRIVE Fivepiece jazz fusion band based out of Athens that takes inspiration from
artists like Casiopea, Return to Forever, Lettuce and Jaco Pastorius.
Thursday 30
Athentic Brewing Co.
6–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
EDDIE HALFASS Self-claimed as Athens’ 483rd best band.
Dead Beat Club
8 p.m. FREE! www.deadbeatathens. com
SONG-O-RAMA The final five artists of this songwriter competition perform three songs each, competing for a $300 cash prize.
TELEMARKET Driving, angular indie-rock band from Athens.
HUNLO Electrified, soulful artist with a soft, inspiring sound.
HOWDY, FELLOW TRAVELER! A farmer and his best friends singing folk songs about love lost and gained, carrots plucked and unplucked and how birds can make you cry.
The Globe
7:30–10 p.m. www.facebook.com/ globe.athens
MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-HOTS
Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.
Hendershot’s
8 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens. com
BIG BAND ATHENS 18-member Athens band whose swinging tunes consist of cover music from the ’40s to the ’70s.
RICK FOWLER BAND Steeped in the wealth of experience and known for lyrical maturity that still packs an attitude, musician Rick Fowler brings an original yet familiar appeal to fans of ’60s and ’70s rock. Album release show!
MICHAEL GUTHRIE Musician whose band has been a staple of the Athens rock scene since the 1970s.
Athentic Brewing Co. 7–9:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com
MARY & THE HOT HOTTY-HOTS
Hot jazz and swing band offering music from the 1910s, ’20s and ’30s.
VETA CETI Alternative rock band based in Miami, FL touring its recent EP, This is an S.O.S.
BEAU ANDERSON Atlanta-based maker of loud noises and former guitarist of The Twotakes and Seven Year Witch.
ALIEN FUNK ACADEMY Athensbased power trio specializing in high intensity rock and roll and galactic funk influenced by Vulfpeck, Umphree’s McGee and Phish.
Classic Citiva Eastside
4:20 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ classiccitiva
JOE CAT Athens-based Americana singer-songwriter and troubadour joined by Klay Whitehead on drums.
Creature Comforts
Brewery
Sun Glow Summer Music Series. 7 p.m. creaturecomforts.com
MARSOUPIAL Jam band serving up your favorite songs with a twist. Dead Beat Club
8 p.m. $7. www.deadbeatathens.com
STEPHAN EUTSLER An Athens guitarist playing in support of his upcoming instrumental record Meditations of the Infinite Mind
DAY ONE Alternative and folk rock project from Athens songwriter and multi-instrumentalist William Kis-
DJ CHARLIEFLOWER Spinning goth tunes for this dance party benefiting the Athens Area Homeless Shelter.
Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture
Charlie Mustard Coffee Presents. 8 p.m. $15. www.wintervillecenter. com
BLUE STARS Side project formed by four musicians from different corners of the Athens music scene: Claire Campbell, Andrea DeMarcus, Joe Rowe and Dan Nettles.
THE HOWDIES Old-school outlaw country act featuring vocalists Austin Darnell and Shoni Rancher.
No. 3 Railroad Street
7 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www.3railroad.org
SHAUNA & THE JAYWALKERS
Athens-based band with an array of revolving instruments, playing original compositions by frontwoman Shauna Harris with some classics sprinkled throughout the set.
sane, featuring Andrea Demarcus, Dan Nettles and Seth Hendershot.
Normaltown Brewing Co.
6–8 p.m. FREE! www.itswillshine.com
THE FATBACK COLLECTIVE Featuring Will Shine, Ryan Brown and Erik Olson will special guests playing originals and inventive covers.
Nowhere Bar
9:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga
FISSION Quartet composed of Erik Olson, Neal Fountain, Seth Hendershot and Jeremiah Wilcox.
RACECAR 44 A post-rock band with heavy shoegaze and noise rock influences, established in January 2024 through the powers of friendship, cinema and pedals.
Sunday 2
ACC Library Live at the Library. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org
JAY GONZALEZ Athens songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with an affinity for ’70s power pop melodies.
The Globe 4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens
TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION Easy listening traditional Irish music.
Oak House Distillery 4–6:30 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery. com
TRACY & JEFF Jazz, blues and new and old classics from the voice of Tracy Brown and the guitar and harmonica of Jeff Lustig. Terrapin Beer Co. 3–6 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com
JIM COOK High-energy solo blues, classic rock and roots music. Every first Sunday.
MONDAY FUNDAY FUNK JAM Will Shine hosts this open jam with a house band made up of rotating local musicians.
Tuesday 4
Daily Groceries Co-op
Tuesday Tunes. 6–7:30 p.m. www. instagram.com/dailycoop AUSTIN SISK Covers and originals in the vein of alt-rock, indie and Americana.
Dead Beat Club
8 p.m. & 9 p.m. FREE! www.deadbeat athens.com
KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles performs two sets of adventurous new music each week from his ever-expanding catalog that exists “somewhere in the Schrödinger’s nexus of jazz, post-rock and improvised music.” Hendershot’s 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com
HENDERSHOT’S OPEN MIC NIGHT Discover new Athens musical talent.
Porterhouse Grill
7 p.m. www.porterhousegrillathens. com
JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits. f
Nihilus will play at The Roadhouse on Saturday, Aug. 1.
threats & promises
The Cellar Lantern Hymns
PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP
By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com
SIX STRING FIGHT: Garage rockers The Grawks will release a new EP, Magnificent Little Deaths, on Saturday, Aug. 1 and will celebrate with a release show that same night at Nowhere Bar. It opens with the title track, which is a smoothly tuneful, tremolo- touched, mid- tempo groover. Next up is the band’s two- fisted take on Flamin’
Groovies’ “Slow Death,” which is so full of energy you’ll sit straight up. The previously released “Still Small Voice” opens side two, and it remains, as I mentioned before, a heavy, bluesy proto-punk number not at all unlike The Stooges or Mudhoney. The record closes out with “You’re My Girl” which feels celebratory with its harmonica undertone before flexing its muscles and punching up the middle and end. Doors should open around 8 p.m. with music starting around 9 p.m. For more information, please see facebook.com/grawksband, and find the new EP over at thegrawks. bandcamp.com.
BATTLE STATIONS: The particular style of crust punk expressed by Suffer Bomb Disease falls more toward the artsy side of the alley than the garbage side, but it’s still an aural knife at one’s throat. The group’s new three- song EP on Hard Tack is named Death Tape and, really, no other title would do. Opening with the chaotic, blast-beat oriented “U.nending S.ystemic A.buse,” which sounds like it was recorded inside an old tube sock, the band easily slides into “Suffer Noise Bomb” which is a huge plate of sonic terror spaghetti. Just the stuff of nightmares. The cadence of the most traditional rocker here, final song “Gleam of the Raised Sword Amidst the Last Triumph,” makes its mid- tempo pace feel faster via insistence. This is brutal, albeit somewhat recognizable for fans of the genre. Get real low over at hardtackk.bandcamp.com.
ALL RIGHT NOW: It was only a week or so ago that Heffner released its new 11- song album, Our Birthday Forever. Heffner has been a guitar band of a high degree since its inception, but even I wasn’t prepared
for the Foghat/Free vibes of opening song “Jonny’s Numb.” It’s a tendency that flows through the whole record. Not that the songs reference those bands specifically, but that Heffner is more than comfortable finding value in influences that wouldn’t even be spoken of out loud in indie rock land for decades. It’s this welcoming that led to the soft grandeur of “Cauterized Image” and “Poison Arrow.” But it’s not like this is one big celebration of Freedom Rock, and listeners should be pleased by the thoughtful work behind “Since I Last Confessed,” “Phone Was in the Kitchen” and the funky- folk inside “Crybaby.” This is an impressive set of work and can be heard immediately over at heffner.bandcamp.com.
THE CHRISTIAN LIFE: The rock and roll fans in Sunshine Crooks haven’t appeared in this column for a couple of years, but the pair just released a new two- song EP, Praise The Lord This is a double dose of oldfashioned gospel and storytelling. It’s acoustic based and, both stylistically and in terms of cultural relevance, resides in the neighborhood built by such famous backsliders as Hasil Adkins, Hank Williams, Ray Campi, et al. Just a neat little nugget of stuff, and you can find it at sunshinecrooks.bandcamp.com.
LEAVE A LIGHT ON: There’s a whole bunch of music to check out by The Cellar Lantern Hymns, but the latest is the newly released three- song Boy of Aphrodite. It opens with the atypical title track, which is probably the darkest- sounding thing the group has done. It kind of slithers and throbs with a low anxiety, but remains tuneful and memorable. The liner notes mention specific influences for this, namely “Be My Baby” and “Bela Lugosi’s Dead.” The third track here is a demo version of this. Right in the middle is a cover of The Mountain Goats’ “No Children,” which is both nicely performed and a welcome introduction to these guys if you’ve not heard them yet. Find this at tapeloopseeds.bandcamp.com.
A PLACE WE HAVE BEEN TO: You could have knocked down folks with a feather once word broke a couple of weeks ago that the long-awaited final album by The Olivia Tremor Control, The Same Place, was finished and slated for release in October. Work began on the album over 20 years ago. The death of members Bill Doss in 2012 and W. Cullen Hart in 2024 left some to speculate that this work, which even many fans did not know existed, may never see the light of day. However, it has now been finalized for releases after being completed. Preorders are open now, and there are multiple options available. Please see elephant6.com for ordering and all other information. f
Blue Stars
ATHENS SUPERGROUP HOSTS COMMUNITY-MINDED CONCERT
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Athens all-star side project Blue Stars has organized one final townie summer bash with country sweethearts The Howdies at Winterville’s Marigold Auditorium on Saturday, Aug. 1, presented by special sponsor Charlie Mustard Coffee.
Blue Stars members Dan Nettles, Claire Campbell, Andrea DeMarcus and Joe Rowe are all accomplished musicians and strong songwriters with polished projects under their own names, but this collaborative band flexes each members’ skills and shines a light on their strengths in a different way. When everyone in the room is a songwriter, there are only possibilities. Which is exactly what Nettles hoped for when he approached this handful of his favorite musicians in town to start a project with him, in the name of fun.
“Dan tricked us all into it,” says Rowe.
“He sent me a letter, a proposal. I got a decent proposal,” says Campbell.
The ties of friendship and mutual admiration are clear within the group, even as the members laugh about how the Blue Stars got their start, and that in part is also a motivation behind this event. Nettles sees the Marigold Auditorium as a community space with good energy that was a logical next step after selling out venues like Hendershot’s and Dead Beat Club, but it was still a risk. So he discussed his plans with Charlie Mustard.
“Not only does the band fit together with my favorite creative people, but I’m working at a creative community venue and I’m working with Charlie Mustard, one of my favorite humans in town,” says Nettles.
and the reality of it has far exceeded his expectations.
“Sometimes we just laugh in rehearsal. It’s so easy and weightless to bring in something and have people add or take away from stuff, or just laugh at it if it sucks, too. We can try things and say, ‘Yeah, that’s not working.’ Or, hilariously, when we rehearse without a member, like a duo rehearsal with Joe, where we definitely decided that we suck as a duo, things like that,” says Nettles.
While Blue Stars doesn’t have a lead songwriter, the members view Nettles as their captain—or cat herder, according to Rowe. Campbell says he’s naturally a good leader and gatherer of people.
“In my life he has been a person that brings groups of people together, like he has music parties, and he’ll get us all together to go play cards somewhere. He brought us all into teaching at Nuçi’s Space Camp Amped. There are people who gather, right? They help other people gather and form friend groups and have rad times. That’s Dan,” says Campbell.
Charlie Mustard Coffee is a new blend created by the longtime Jittery Joe’s roastmaster, who has been roasting coffee in Athens for more than 25 years. Each presale ticket for the event will enter the attendee’s name into a raffle for a $200 gift certificate from Mama’s Boy, Clocked or Ted’s Most Best, courtesy of Mustard. The drawing will happen at the show, and winners must be present to collect their prize.
Over the past year and a half that the Blue Stars have been performing, catching them live has been the only way to experience their music. In honor of this show, the group has released a few demos at blue starssongs.bandcamp.com for the unfamiliar to get properly acquainted beforehand. The band also warns that this may be the last Blue Stars show for a while as they step back from the stage and into the recording studio for a proper release.
It can’t be overstated how much camaraderie fuels this band and adds a heartfelt layer of whimsy. The idea of Blue Stars was one that Nettles had for a long time,
Describing the group itself, DeMarcus says, “It echoes the sentiment of being a person who lives in Athens. We’re here because there’s a vibrant, creative community across all different media and genres and disciplines, like we’re all trying to create this culture that includes everyone.”
“I love playing with all of these people, and just how interesting it is. How creative it is, how surprising it can be, and just how really cool it is to work with other people so closely who have all contributed so much,” says Rowe.
For the full effect and personality that fuels Blue Stars, it’s truly an act that holds weight as a live experience. Presale tickets, which enter you into the raffle, can be purchased at wintervillecenter.com. f
WHO: Blue Stars, The Howdies WHEN: Saturday, Aug 1, 7 p m (doors), 8 p m (show) WHERE: Marigold Auditorium HOW MUCH: $15 (adv ), $20
The Cellar Lantern Hymns
J. DEREVERE
Back on My Good Foot
STROLLING BONES REISSUES RICK FOWLER’S TURNING-POINT ALBUM
By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com
Earlier this month, Strolling Bones Records reissued Rick Fowler’s 2008 blues album, Back On My Good Foot, as part of the label’s Cold Case Tapes series— providing an under-promoted record with a deserved second wind.
At the time it was released, Back on My Good Foot received high praise from music critics around the world. The solo musician was backed by a powerhouse of peers: Bill Berry and Gerry Hanson on drums, keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist Randall Bramblett, bassist Michael C. Steele and organist Tim White. But the recession was in full swing, and investors pulled out of the record label backing the album. The company shut down, and the album’s momentum fizzled out.
Many years later when Fowler was talking with George Fontaine Sr., of New West Records and Strolling Bones Records, Back on My Good Foot was one of the CDs of old material Fowler gave him. Fontaine was immediately impressed with this record and felt it deserved a proper worldwide release, including being available on vinyl and streaming platforms for the first time. Fontaine started Strolling Bones Records as a way to back artists he personally believed in, and the Cold Case Tapes series became a way to remaster and reissue projects that didn’t previously have help under a label.
“It’s amazing how many of these damn records are sitting around waiting for somebody to put them out. I have been at this long enough to know that they exist, and with the artists that I’ve known all these years, I knew these were going to be good records. When I started listening to them, I was like, ‘Let’s put them out,’” says Fontaine. “There’s no shortage of them out there, and there’s no shortage of the artists that want to have their records released either on a full release basis or for the first time ever.”
Fowler says he’s been pleased with the remastering work and “more flashy” album art for the reissue. And it still plays the same as when he first released it.
“The stuff I write, we’re not going for any kind of commercial hit or anything, so it’s kind of timeless as far as I’m concerned. It doesn’t matter if it was 20 years ago or a year ago. It’s all just stuff I wanted to write,” says Fowler. “That’s the way I approach everything.”
Back on My Good Foot is the epitome of “everything happens for a reason,” and couldn’t be more aptly named.
Although the initial release may not have been the right timing for the album itself, it was a critical step forward for Fowler and everything that’s happened since. The experience birthed the Rick Fowler Band.
“The best thing about that record, to me, was that it got all those great reviews, and that made me want to put together a band to support the record, because I didn’t have one at the time,” says Fowler. “I created the band I have now. We said we got to have a band to support this record. So these guys said, ‘Well, let’s do it.’ So they joined and helped me. These guys carry me like, I don’t know, a surfer on a wave or something… Without these guys, the songs I’m doing now and the live version of Back on My Good Foot, they wouldn’t be anywhere near what they are.”
White, who backed Fowler in the studio, stayed on to join the band, in addition to Michael Doke (guitar/slide guitar/vocals), Greg Veale (bass/vocals) and Deane Quinter (drums). The Rick Fowler Band will perform most of the songs from Back on My Good Foot for the official album release show at the 40 Watt Club on Friday, July 31—a full circle moment for Fowler and his musical journey.
Over the decades, the power, influence and priorities of record labels have changed in some important ways while remaining consistent in others—something Fowler has experienced first hand. The solo record blunder wasn’t Fowler’s first musical rodeo. In the 1980s Fowler’s band Fortnox found some success, signing to Epic Records and getting airplay on MTV. But, like so many bands at the time, Fowler says he felt like Fortnox got lost in the shuffle.
“We were opening for Aerosmith at Hampton Coliseum, and the owner of a big chain of record stores was there, and he came up to us and said, ‘You know, Epic has quit shipping your record,’” says Fowler. “Then the tour support was dropped. We said, ‘Why are we out here killing ourselves?’ So we just came home and split up.”
It was a common story for smaller signed bands, says Fowler. Tour support would drop, then distribution stopped, and bands would be left hanging without the abil-
ity to advocate for themselves. On the other side, bands that kept support were often pushed by the label to chase hits and sound more like other musicians who were charting well.
“The thing about Strolling Bones is, you are who you are. We either like it or we don’t, and if we like it, we’re going to put it out,” says Fowler.
Back on My Good Foot is available to stream now, with CDs and a double vinyl release on sale at strollingbones records.com. Tickets for the release show are available at 40watt.com. f
event calendar
Tuesday 28
CLASSES: Microsoft Powerpoint (ACC Library) Learn how to create slides, enter content, change layouts, and use styles and themes. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
CLASSES: Boots & Brews Line Dancing (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn the line dancing basics from host Lindsay before the floor opens for social dancing. Fourth Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.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: Dueling Daiquiri Competition (Puma Yu’s) Contestants compete for the best daquiri with tastings and voting by attendees, benefiting Farm 2 Neighborhood. $10. 6–9 p.m. www.instagram. com/pumayus
FILM: OLLI Summer Film Festival (Ciné) This weekly film festival featuring best-rated movies sponsored by OLLI presents Moonrise Kingdom. Tuesdays, 1:30 p.m. $9. www.athenscine.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom Athens
GAMES: Back-to-School Trivia (Hendershot’s) Test your trivia
knowledge with host Arden. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com
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: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss The Searcher by Tana French with the group. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
MEETINGS: Athens Photography Guild (Lyndon House Arts Center) Heather Larkin will give a presentation on flower photography. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athensphotography guild.wordpress.com
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org
Wednesday 29
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
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
art around town
ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) “Nonsensica” is an immersive art experience that engages the senses. Through Aug. 9.
ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Piecemeal” features collages by Brian George incorporating pieces of discarded books, including children’s bibles, medical textbooks and frontier history books. Through Aug. 25.
AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) “The Silk Show ’26” features painted silks by Margaret Agner. Through August.
BISHOP PARK (705 Sunset Dr.) “Fox Nouveau & Pileated Woodpecker” is a new gate and public art installation by local artists Caty Swanson and Mike Harboldt, who were selected from a nationwide call.
BMA STUDIO (1354 South Milledge Ave.) An open studio event will be held on Aug. 20 from 5–7 p.m. featuring abstract and floral works by Sarah Mason. 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 July 30, 2027.
HISTORIC ATHENS WELCOME CENTER(280 E. Dougherty St.) The exhibit
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
LECTURES & LIT: Stories of the AT with GATC (REI) Join the Appalachian Trail Club for an evening of stories about the Appalachian Trail. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.rei.com
MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/FilmAthens
Thursday 30
ART: Artist Talk (Lyndon House Arts Center) Artist Rial Rye will discuss his works in the exhibition “Son of a Griff.” 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/lyndonhouse
ART: Closing Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Cecilia Reynolds’ exhibition “rivers, roots, and bones” will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyath gallery.com
COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Flying Squid Comedy) Bring a loose funny bone to some home-grown townie improv. 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (short-form), 8 p.m. (long-form). $5. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com
FILM: Mesozoic Movies (Bogart Library) Screening of a blockbuster film filled with dinosaurs on an island. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
FILM: Marigold Movie Night (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) Screening of the 2025 movie Superman with refreshments. 7 p.m. $6. www.wintervillecenter. com
GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Happy Hour Trivia (The Rook and Pawn) Test your trivia knowledge with host Nikolai. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.therookand pawn.com
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: Snake Encounter (ACC Library) Learn about venomous and non-venomous snakes with Jason Clark from Southeastern Reptile Rescue and then pose for a photo-op. All ages. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
KIDSTUFF: Read to Rover (Oconee County Library) Drop in to read a story to certified therapy dog Oliver. Ages 4 & up. 3:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee
LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (Ciné) Author and journalist Tom Junod will read from his book In the Days of My Youth I Was Told What It Means to Be a Man. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens cine.com
MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org
Friday 31
ART: BE/WEAR THE PHENONMENONEGON (ATHICA) An immersive art installation benefitting ATHICA.
“Anne Brumby: Her Life in Athens, Georgia” shares the story of Anne W. Brumby and features a curated selection of antique women’s garments on display in the master bedroom of the c. 1820 Church-Waddel-Brumby House. Through Aug. 17. LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.). “Speaking in Tongues” features multi-media works by local and regional artists inspired by language and text across mediums and eras. Poetry/spoken word event Aug. 27, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Through Aug. 29. • A Pet Portrait Exhibition features works submitted by the public. Through Aug. 29. • “Excursions in Ukraine” features photographs 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. Artist Talk July 30, 5:30 p.m. 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. Through Oct. 10. • “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. Through Oct. 10. • In the Lobby Case is “Critters,” which features colorful cut-tin figures by Steven Burnley that blend human and animal forms. Through 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.
July 31 & Aug. 7, 6–9 p.m. Aug. 1 & 8, 3–9 p.m. Aug. 2 & 9, 4–7 p.m. $7–15. www.athica.org
EVENTS: End of Summer Reading Party (Bogart Library) Celebrate the end of the summer reading program with events, snacks and more. All ages. 1 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart
EVENTS: Age Well Live Well Festival (Athens Community Council on Aging) An evening celebrating community and creativity with local musicians, storytellers, comedians, artists and community members. 6:30 p.m. $15. www.accaging.org
EVENTS: Stupid Cupid’s Summer Bash (Hendershot’s) A night of summer fun for Athens singles with live music. 8 p.m. $10. www. hendershotsathens.com
FILM: Marigold Movie Night (Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture) Screening of the 1982 classic movie ET with refreshments. 7 p.m. $6. www.wintervillecenter.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
KIDSTUFF: Bucket Drum Experience (ACC Library) Learn the fundamentals of rhythm and basic patterns on bucket drums, and then play songs together. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
LECTURES & LIT: Narrative Nonfiction Student Readings (Hendershot’s) UGA MFA students will read their works. 5–7 p.m. www. hendershotsathens.com
THEATER: The Prince of Egypt (Oconee Youth Playhouse) Oconee Youth Playhouse presents a musical based on the 1998 DreamWorks animated film. July 24–25, 31 & Aug. 1, 7 p.m. July 26 & Aug. 2, 3 p.m. $15–20. www.oconeeyouth playhouse.com
THEATER: The Little Mermaid (Oconee County Civic Center) The Stage Oconee presents a full-length stage production of one of Disney’s classic musicals. July 31 & Aug. 7, 7 p.m. Aug. 1 & 8, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Aug. 2, 2 p.m. $20–25. www. thestageoconee.com.
Saturday 1
ART: BE/WEAR THE PHENONMENONEGON (ATHICA) An immersive art installation benefitting ATHICA. July 31 & Aug. 7, 6–9 p.m. Aug. 1 & 8, 3–9 p.m. Aug. 2 & 9, 4–7 p.m. $7–15. www.athica.org
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers market.net
EVENTS: Comer Community Market (The Perch) Browse flower and vegetable plant starts, baked goods, vegetables, honey, pottery, eggs, mushrooms and handmade items. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www.theperchcomer. com/farmers-market
EVENTS: Marigold Farmers Market (Pittard Park) Vendors offer organic produce, prepared foods, agricultural products and artisanal goods with live music, kids activities and more. Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. www.marigoldcollectivewinterville. com
EVENTS: Ag Fest (Farmview Market) The fourth annual festival celebrates Georgia’s agriculture with live music, hayrides, a petting zoo and more. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www. farmviewmarket.com
EVENTS: Back-to-School Giveaway (Aaron Heard Community Center) This annual event offers students the opportunity to receive new backpacks for the upcoming school year. Limited quantities. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.multiple choices.us
EVENTS: Back to School Bash (Westclox) There will be slipn-slides, local vendors, familyfriendly activities and information about the site’s adaptive reuse project. 2–5 p.m. FREE! www.westclox athens.com
EVENTS: Back To Old School Night Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Shop vintage clothes, tech, art and more. 5–10 p.m. www.athentic brewing.com
OCAF (34 School St. Watkinsville) In the Main Gallery, “Southworks” showcases a variety of mediums juried by Beth Malone and Rachel Waldrop. Through July. • “Art in the Family” presents multi-medium works by OCAF members and volunteers. Through July.
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave.)
“Defining the Lines” features watercolor paintings by Leigh Ellis. Artist reception Aug. 2, 2–4 p.m. Through Aug. 9.
TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Artist Cecilia Reynolds will have works on view in the exhibition “rivers, roots, and bones.” 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. Through Sept. 15. • In Gallery 1, “Art: Through the Decades” features works by the late artist and folklorist Art Rosenbaum. Through Sept. 15. • In Gallery 2, “Layers” is a juried Members exhibit with works in a variety of mediums. Through Sept. 15. • In the Music Room Gallery, “The Art of Sedition” is on view through Sept. 15. • In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, “Rebellious Art, Treasonous Artists” is on view in Room 103. Through December.
EVENTS: Goth Summer Faire (Flying Squid Comedy) Goth dance party benefitting the Athens Area Homeless Shelter featuring DJ Charlieflower. 8 p.m. $8. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com
LECTURES & LIT: Crafting Furniture (ACC Library) Furniture-maker Abraham Tesser will discuss master craftsmen whose ideas shaped both the Studio Furniture movement and his own evolution as a woodworker. 9 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Drag For All (Hendershots) Enjoy a fabulous night of open drag fun for all ages. 8–11 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirl cabaret.com
THEATER: The Little Mermaid (Oconee County Civic Center) The Stage Oconee presents a full-length stage production of one of Disney’s classic musicals. July 31 & Aug. 7, 7 p.m. Aug. 1 & 8, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Aug. 2, 2 p.m. $20–25. www. thestageoconee.com.
THEATER: The Prince of Egypt (Oconee Youth Playhouse) Oconee Youth Playhouse presents a musical based on the 1998 DreamWorks animated film. July 24–25, 31 & Aug. 1, 7 p.m. July 26 & Aug. 2, 3 p.m. $15–20. www.oconeeyouthplayhouse.com
Sunday 2
ART: Artist Reception (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Artist Leigh Ellis’ watercolor paintings will be on view in the exhibition “Defining the Lines.” 2–4 p.m. FREE! bot garden.uga.edu
ART: BE/WEAR THE PHENONMENONEGON (ATHICA) An immersive art installation benefitting ATHICA. July 31 & Aug. 7, 6–9 p.m. Aug. 1 & 8, 3–9 p.m. Aug. 2 & 9, 4–7 p.m. $7–15. www.athica.org
CLASSES: Sewcial Sewing Club (Oconee County Library) An afternoon of simple sewing techniques with all materials provided. Ages 13 & up. 2:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee
CLASSES: Camping Basics (REI) Learn what to consider before your trip, how to stay comfortable sleeping outside, and how to set up a functional camp kitchen. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.rei.com
COMEDY: Comedy Showcase (The Globe) Athens Comedy hosts themed and general showcases of local and regional comedians. Sundays, 9 p.m. www.athenscomedy.com
EVENTS: Odd Paws Rescue Adoption Event (Pet Supplies Plus) Meet and greet with adoptable cats and kittens. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. www. instagram.com/oddpaws.rescue EVENTS: 30–40s Speed Dating (Athentic Brewing Co.) A meet and mingle followed by speed dating sessions for ages 30–40. Registration required. 3:30–6 p.m. $25. www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 4 p.m. & 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens
SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org
THEATER: The Little Mermaid (Oconee County Civic Center) The Stage Oconee presents a full-length stage production of one of Disney’s classic musicals. July 31 & Aug. 7, 7 p.m. Aug. 1 & 8, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Aug. 2, 2 p.m. $20–25. www. thestageoconee.com.
THEATER: The Prince of Egypt (Oconee Youth Playhouse) Oconee Youth Playhouse presents a musical based on the 1998 DreamWorks animated film. July 24–25, 31 & Aug. 1, 7 p.m. July 26 & Aug. 2, 3 p.m. $15–20. www.oconeeyouth playhouse.com
Monday 3
EVENTS: Oconee County Contra Dance (Social Dance Preserve) Community dance night on first and third Mondays. 7 p.m. (beginner lesson), 8–10 p.m. (dance). $10. www.oconeecountycontra.com
GAMES: Chess and Community (ACC Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. Mondays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco
GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccity triviaco
MEETINGS: Death Over Drafts (Athentic Brewing Co.) Conversation about the use of Floriography in funerary art presented by local taphophile Jennifer Keene. RSVP encouraged. 6–8 p.m. organizing death@gmail.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
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: Historic Athens History Hour (Lyndon House Arts Center) Local music historian and author Chris Jones will discuss important Athens music venues that have vanished or are in peril. 12–1 p.m. FREE! www.historicathens.com
LECTURES & LIT: Bogart Bookies (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of Desert Life: The Extraordinary Life of Gertrude Bell by Janet Wallach, and discuss it with the group. 2 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
Wednesday 5
EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net
FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A rich, hate-filled family reunited on a remote island is stalked by a maniac in Nine Guests for a Crime. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/bloodevery where.athens
GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com
GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu nottrivia
GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia 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
LECTURES & LIT: Word of Mouth (The Globe) Athens’ longestrunning spoken word open mic, with this month’s featured reader Lem LaRoche. 6 p.m. (sign-ups), 7 p.m. (poetry). FREE! www.facebook. com/athenswordofmouth
Down the Line
8/06 Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park)
8/06 Ladies Night Out (Boutier Winery)
8/06 Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls)
8/06 KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library)
8/06 Teen Dungeons & Dragons (Bogart Library)
8/06 Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.)
8/06 Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Flying Squid Comedy) f
calendar picks arts & culture
ART | THU, JULY 30
Rial Rye Artist Talk
Lyndon House Arts Center • 5:30 p.m. • FREE! “Son of a Griff” is the newest exhibition by Rial Rye, currently on display at Lyndon House Arts Center through Aug. 29. Rye is a self- taught Black and Indigenous American artist whose loud and colorful works depict children’s toys caught in acts of violence. The name of the exhibition comes from the category assigned to his great-great-great grandmother in 1880 by a census recorder. The designation of “Griff” refers to griffins—half eagle, half lion creatures that don’t exist in nature. This use of mythology to describe a real person gets at the theme of “Son of a Griff,” which is based around the physical and psychological boxes that result from and define the American racial caste system. Rye explores and questions these boundaries in his work through found objects, saturated colors and imagery from childhood. For this artist talk, Rye will discuss his creative process and go more in depth on the themes of “Son of a Griff.”
[Mary Beth Bryan]
LITERATURE
| THU, JULY 30
Tom Junod Book
Reading & Signing
Ciné • 6 p.m. • FREE!
Atlanta-based author and ESPN journalist Tom Junod’s memoir In the Days of My Youth I Was Told What It Means to Be a Man is about Junod’s relationship with his father both during his life and after his death. Junod describes his father Lou as an imposing presence, a man who carried himself like a celebrity, had countless affairs and gave his son all sorts of advice on how to present himself and attract women. After Lou’s death, Junod set out to discover the facts of his father’s life, and in the process figured out what manhood truly means for himself. Copies of the memoir, which is a New York Times Book Review Editor’s Choice, will be available for purchase and signing following a reading from Junod.
[MB]
THEATER | JULY 31–AUG. 2 & AUG. 7–9
The Little Mermaid
MUSIC
| SAT, AUG. 1
Lera Lynn
Dead Beat Club • 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show) • $30 (adv.), $35
Before embarking on a European tour at the end of September, Americana musician Lera Lynn is making a couple stops in Georgia. Lynn spent a portion of her childhood living in the suburbs of Atlanta, and later moved to Athens to study anthropology at the University of Georgia. During that time she was introduced to the local music scene and began writing songs of her own. She recorded her debut record, 2011’s Have You Met Lera Lynn?, in Athens before moving to Nashville the following year. Since then, she has become an important name in the Americana/alternative country scene and
even had a featured song on the second season of “True Detective.” Now on her ninth studio album, Comic Book Cowboy, Lynn subverts expectations by experimenting with moody indie rock and folk noir sounds while discussing the music industry and existential themes like purpose and her identity as a mother and wife. [MB]
LECTURES | TUE, AUG. 4
August History Hour
Oconee County Civic Center • Times Vary • $18–25
Nearly 40 cast members of The Stage Oconee are putting on a live production of Disney’s beloved musical The Little Mermaid. The story of a young mermaid who trades her voice for legs will feature all of the audience- favorite songs, from “Part of Your World” to “Kiss the Girl.” Shows will be held at 7 p.m. on July 31–Aug. 1 and Aug. 7–8, and at 2 p.m. on Aug. 1–2 and Aug. 8–9. The 2 p.m. show on Aug. 8 will be Stage Oconee’s sensory and family- friendly performance, which is tailored for those in need of special accommodations. House lights will be kept dim, audio levels will be turned low and pom poms will be offered in place of loud applause. Tickets for The Little Mermaid can be purchased at thestage oconee.com. [MB]
Lyndon House Arts Center • 12 p.m. • FREE! August’s History Hour with Historic Athens will highlight the live music venues that have defined Athens’ musical history, particularly those that have vanished or are in peril. Chris Jones, a local music historian and author, will be leading the discussion, touching on venues from Morton Theatre and the Georgian Hotel to “hidden stages” like fraternity houses, country clubs and roadhouses. He will also talk about the racial segregation of the music scene, with Hot Corner, the Morton Theater, Harlem Theater and House of Blue Lights hosting blues and jazz shows and becoming one of the South’s destinations for Black performers while fraternity houses and campus buildings served as venues for majority white audiences. As is customary for Historic Athens’ One Story series, there will be complimentary lunch from Rashe’s Cuisine available on a first come, first served basis. [MB] f
Lera Lynn
bulletin board & classifieds
Classifieds
HELP WANTED (Full-Time) Armentrout Matheny Thurmond, P.C., seeks Civil Engineer II in Athens, GA, to prepare 2D and 3D engineering drawings, layouts, and design documents using CAD and related design software. Position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering, and 2 years of experience as a civil, environmental, or geotechnical engineer or technician, or related. Experience must include 2 years of experience with each of the following: 1. Integrating natural resources and infrastructure into site development plans. 2. Design and visualization software including Civil 3D and CAD software. 3. Hydrology modeling using Hydraflow and Hydrology Studio. 4. Creating maps including spatial data with MapInfo, MapPit, and Compass. 5. Storm water drainage analysis and design. 6. Analyzing geospatial data in various formats using QGIS. 7. Analyzing satellite imagery using SAS Planet. 8. Creating and manipulating 3D models using SketchUp. 9. Drone survey mapping of properties. Salary $58,365.00 – $72,800.00/year.
To apply email resume to rhudson @amtathens.com with position title in the subject line.
FOR RENT (Cottage) 1BR cottage 2
blocks from campus. Full kitchen, W/D and water included. Avail. Aug 1. $1500 month. tinroofsrusted@ gmail.com
MUSIC (Services) Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton and College Dwntn. 706-612-4926
REAL ESTATE (Room for Rent) Room for rent w/private BA. Located in Watkinsville. $800/month all inclusive. Graduate student preferred. Call 706-286-0138 for more information.
REAL ESTATE (Sublease) Take over lease at The Reserve At Athens. $809 per month. Share furnished 2BD/2BA w/female. Sept. 1 movein. Contact Chelsey Lowe, Leasing Dir. 706-548-4400 or Dawn Darley 808-500-1071 for more information.
SERVICES (Financial) Bookkeeping for Athens nonprofits, small businesses & makers. QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor, now booking 2026. Locally kept. Text Sam 706386-0281. www.beeskneesbook keeping.com
SERVICES (Health) 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
rosewellness.com, www.corarose wellness.com
SERVICES (Home & Garden)
Scratching your head with all this poison ivy? We can help! WomanRun Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized edible and native gardens for your school, home or business! 706-395-5321
SERVICES (Home & Garden) Hi!
I’m Pablo, an expert gardener offering personalized care for your landscape. I specialize in lowmaintenance, native gardens that support pollinators and biodiversity. Find me @pablofromseed, email pkozatch@gmail.com or call 631903-4365.
Arts
ATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY (Athens, GA) The ACD is a free platform to connect creatives with patrons. www.athenscreatives. directory
CALL FOR ART (Various Locations) Visit www.flagpole.com/bulletin board for ongoing open art calls. CALL FOR 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.
Deadline Aug. 26 and grantees announced in September. www. athfesteducates.org/grants/applyfor-a-grant
CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box seeks story ideas for upcoming shows. www.rabbit box.org/tell
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper. Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics. enagementcoordinator @athenshc.org
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (The Lightroom) The Athens FIlm Festival is seeking submissions from the community for the second annual Pitchfest. All formats and experience levels of film, docuseries, podcast, branded content or creative projects are welcome. Deadline Aug. 3, participants notified Aug. 11 and final competition held Aug. 29. One selected winner will win support and opportunity to bring their vision to the screen. www.athensfilm.com/pitchfest
COMMUNITY TOURS (Georgia Museum of Art) A variety of tours open to the public including “Student Perspectives” which runs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays throughout the month. www.georgia museum.org
LIFE DRAWING (Winterville Cultural Center) Monthly afternoon life drawing sessions, every fourth
Tuesday. Models scheduled represent the full spectrum of age, color, race and genders. Artists 18 & up only. Registration and prepayment required. $20. www.drawathens.org.
PUBLIC ART SELECTION PANELS
(Athens, GA) The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission is seeking community members to participate in upcoming public art selection panels. www.accgov.com/9656/ Public-Art-Selection-Panels
SEEKING DONATIONS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Accepting art paper, canvas, paint, tools and more for various community programs. www.accgov.com/lyndon house
SEEKING 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
MERIDIAN WOMEN’S CHORUS
(Holy Cross Lutheran Church) New members invited to join the fall rehearsal season. Schedule vocal assessment to determine voice part. No audition necessary. First performance Sept. 3. www.meridian womenschorus.org
OPEN AUDITIONS (Georgia Children’s Choir) GCC serves singers in grades 2–12. Auditions for placement across five ensembles currently available for all skill levels. www.georgiachildrenschorus. org/about/audition
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Master Chorale) Seeking new members in all voice parts including high sopranos, tenors and basses. Scheduled auditions held at St. Gregory the Great Church. athmcdirector@ gmail.com
OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) The Athens Symphony is holding auditions for qualified musicians. www.athenssymphony. org/openings
SPONGEBOB THE MUSICAL (Athens Creative Theatre) Seeking individuals for this comedy musical based on the classic cartoon. Auditions will include cold readings, a short prepared vocal selection and a movement section. Auditions held Aug. 26–28 at the Morton Theatre. act@accgov.com
Classes
A COURSE IN MIRACLES (580 Tallassee Rd.) Heal your psychology and your life using simple instruction of high vibrational thought. Sundays, 10–11:30 a.m. 770-2372354, www.unityathens.com
ACCENT REDUCTION CLASS (Covenant Presbyterian Church) Improve your American English pronunciation skills. For ages 18 & up. Tuesdays, 12 p.m. marjoriemiller@ gmail.com
CLASSES, HIKES & PADDLES (Watson Mill State Park, Comer) The park offers a variety of events including firebuilding classes, various educational hikes including “Bridge History,” “Tree ID,” “Historic Mills” and more. Parking fee/ pass required for all events. www. gastateparks.org/WatsonMillBridge CLASSES & SCHOLARSHIPS (Canopy Studio) Canopy offers a variety of trapeze and aerial arts classes for children and adults. Scholarships and financial aid are available. outreach@canopystudio.org, www.canopystudio.org/outreach/ scholarships
CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Athens, GA) The Athens Land Trust hosts a variety of virtual and in-person classes. Topics include Affordable Housing Info and Homebuyer Education Course. www.athenlandtrust. org/classes-events
CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including ESL (Tuesdays and Thursdays), Knit Lits Knitting (Thursdays) and more. www.athens library.org/bogart
CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly events including Drop-In Painting (Tuesdays), Open Chess Play (Saturdays), Mixed Media Meetup (Mondays) and more. www.athens library.org/oconee
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 & WORK-
SHOPS (OCAF, Watkinsville)
Registration now open for extended session pottery classes, art instruction and more. www.ocaf.com/ courses
CLASSIC CITY ROLLER DERBY
SKATE CAMP (Fun Galaxy Athens)
Learn to skate with no experience or equipment needed. Ages 18 & up. Registration required. $20 for 5 weeks, Saturdays 9–11:30 a.m. and Wednesdays 6–9 p.m. Runs Aug. 22–Sept. 26. www.ClassicCity RollerDerby.com
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 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 nonresidents. www.accgov.com/myrec
FREE CLASSES (The Athens Free School) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfreeschool on Instagram.
Help Out
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. www. accgov.com/11669/pet-microchips
MULTIPLE CHOICES VOLUN-
TEERS (Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living) Seeking volunteers to assist a nonprofit agency that serves individuals living with disabilities throughout a 10-country area of Northeastern Georgia. 706-850-4025, dmyers@ multiplechoices.us
PET 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/ adoptioncenter
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Bigger Vision of Athens) The nonprofit homeless shelter Bigger Vision of Athens, Inc. is seeking new members for its board of directors. the biggervisionshelter@gmail.com, www.bvoa.org/boardmember
SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS (Moms Adopting Moms) Local nonprofit seeks board members, including a chair and treasurer, to support foster children and families through mentorship and reunification. moms adoptingmoms@gmail.com
SEEKING DONATIONS (The Cottage) Seeking donations of single-serving, non-perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-off please call 706-546-1133, ext 223.
SEEKING DONATIONS (Hands of Hope) Local homeless ministry accepting donations of clothing for their free distribution program and fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting the program. 706-2075172
SEEKING DONATIONS (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. accgov.com/animalservices
SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Books for Keeps) Seeking literacy mentors for local elementary school students. Training provided. No experience needed. bit.ly/BFKLitMentors, story tellers@booksforkeeps.org
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 (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
LEARN TO SWIM (ACC Leisure Services Department) Registration open for variety of lessons for ages over 3 years old including Swim School, Parent/Tot Swim School and Adult Swim Lessons. $33 per session. Additionally, a free Kinderswim program is offered for 5-yearold children. Registration required for all events. www.accgov.com/ aquatics
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
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.mindfulbreath sangha.org
PEACEFUL PROTEST (Indivisible GA District 10) “Every Monday” weekly protest on the corner of the corner of Alps and Baxter. Beginning Aug. 3, 12:30–1:30 p.m. www.indivisible ga10.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
If your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe Our hotline is confidential, and counseling is Get your life back. Get help.
706-543-3331
If your partner objects when you use the phone, limits your everyday contact with family and friends, and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, aggressive confrontations, you need to step back and take another look. How can you cope once you are involved with a controlling partner? Call Project Safe for help. Our hotline is confidential, and counseling is free. Get your life back. Get help.
Hotline, 24 hours/day Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia
If your partner objects when you use limits your everyday contact with family and you restrict yourself to avoid angry, confrontations, you need to step back another look. How can you cope once with a controlling partner? Call Project Our hotline is confidential, and counseling Get your life back. Get help. If you are in crisis due to domestic
706-543-3331
Hotline, 24 hours/day
Linea de crisis, las 24 horas
24 hours/day Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia
Czech-Inspired Nové Mesto
By Amanda Johnson food@flagpole.com
Hello readers, it’s me, Amanda. I’ve been cheffing and dining in Athens for the last 25 years. Please join me on this sensory journey where we explore our ever-evolving food scene.
NOVÉ MESTO (625 Barber St., @nove mestolagerhaus): I was delighted when I heard the team that brought us Hi-Lo Lounge had a central European concept in the works. Nové Mesto, a Czech name and a nod to the adjoining neighborhood of Newtown, first opened back in April. Eager to sample the menu, I tried for dinner one night the first week they were open, but unfortunately that evening they ran out of food before 7 p.m. I was a bit bummed for the sake of my stomach, but at the same time happy for them to be such an instant success. Life got busy for me, as it does, and I hadn’t had a chance to circle back. The little bohemian lagerhaus recently expanded its hours to include lunch, so I decided to finally check it out.
The Stoned Roses’
“I Wanna Be Adored” drifted through the sound system as I took a seat at the bar. Looking around, I’d say there is a lot to adore about Nové Mesto. The dining room is open and airy, with a patio corralled by wooden planters overflowing with flora. An expansive bar with comfortable seating anchors the center of the space. The exterior blue and white motif is carried on subtly inside with the
REBRØD, a traditional danish open- face sandwich, offered with your choice of beet hummus, smoked salmon or curried egg salad. I had to choose the latter. Egg salad is a simple dish, yet somewhat divisive. Nové Mesto’s version is good, with just enough curry to add earthiness that plays well with the pumpernickel bread it is served atop. I enjoyed my lunch with a Czech dark lager served in a sturdy dimpled glass mug. The beer menu is extensive, and while I dined I watched as co-owner Lauren Owens started several jars of Tepache, a fermented pineapple beverage, used as an ingredient for a drink on their cocktail menu.
In scoping out the dinner and brunch menus I saw pretzels, pierogies and schnitzel, as well as some throwback Hi-Lo dishes, including the Czech Fried Cheese, a slab of deep- fried Muenster served with horseradish mayo—yes, please! Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday, and brings with it
menu is what you pay. Following another refreshingly European custom, tax and 20% gratuity is included in the menu price, so tipping is not required unless you just really feel like it.
Nové Mesto is open 12–10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight Friday through Saturday and 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday. The kitchen closes at 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
LOS REYES MEXICAN RESTAURANT (1880
U.S. Highway 29, 706227-0308): As another Wet Hot Townie Summer™ wanes, I certainly hope you have enjoyed plenty of latenight naked pool parties, leisurely and uncrowded patio time, and for the love of Glob, if you haven’t yet, take a trip down
The front windows are emblazoned with images of beautiful ladies beckoning you inside with their serene smiles. Inside you will find a clean and cozy collection of booths and tables, and if it’s crowded, remember there are two enclosed patios just steps from the main entrance.
The house salsa is fresh and stands out with the addition of oregano and fire-roasted elements. Bright and slightly creamy salsa verda and smoky salsa rojo are available upon request, which you absolutely should. Their margarita is strong and on the sweet side of the spectrum; take heed, any size other than small or regular is comically large, think goblet o’ marg.
Los Reyes’ chile relleno is unique in that it lacks the traditional deep- fried eggy batter and instead opts for a roasted pepper absolutely glutted with stretchy mozzarella cheese, or you can order it sans queso with any of their meat options. The dish is then anointed in ranchero sauce and cheese dip, simply divine. Both the gordita and sope are just as they should be: fresh and simple, but executed expertly. I had mine with spicy chicken tinga and earthy and sweet al
Nové Mesto
Edited by Margie E. Burke
26 | 27 SEASON
NOVEMBER 11-13 at 7:30 p.m. FEBRUARY 11-13 at 7:30 p.m., FEBRUARY 13 at 2 p.m. APRIL 8-10 at 7:30 p.m., APRIL 10 at 2 p.m.
WAYS TO SAVE:
PURCHASE A COMPLETE SEASON
CREATE A “PICK FIVE” PACKAGE AND PAIR DANCE WITH MUSIC AND THEATRE PERFORMANCES
