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COLORBEARER OF ATHENS IS ON THE LINE

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 · VOL. 40 · NO. 37 · FREE

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Go Public You Are Traffic Debut Album Release p. 12

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THE 2026-27 FLAGPOLE GUIDE TO ATHENS Our Guide is filled with actual human-produced content! Find info about local Parks, Music Venues, Art Galleries, Yearly Events, Maps, a comprehensive listing of Restaurants, Bars, Breweries & Farmers Markets and more! Pick up a print version at one of our 225+ distribution locations or see our new improved online version at

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Submit free community listings to flagpole by emailing calendar@flagpole.com HAVE AN EVENT? Send your description with date, time, location, and price. HAVE A BAND? Update your description or tell us exactly what you sound like. HAVE ART DISPLAYED? Let us know what, where and for how long. DEADLINE IS THE THURSDAY BEFORE THE PRINT ISSUE.

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ACC LEISURE SERVICES

INDOOR A TROCK GA H E N S , CLIMBING

INTRO BOULDERING CLASSES YOUTH TEAMS LADIES NIGHT STUDENT DISCOUNTS ACTIVECLIMBING.COM (706)354-0038

665 BARBER ST. ATHENS,GA

“The Stage of Memory” mural by artist Alex Maksiov has been completed in the lobby of the historic Morton Theatre. See this week’s “Art Around Town” listings online at flagpole.com.

This Modern World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Linnentown Memorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

NEWS: City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Judicial Center Plan

Flag Football . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

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

Curb Your Appetite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Mike Collins Controversies

Live Music Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Good Growing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

VOTED AN ATHENS’ FAVORITE TATTOO STUDIO

Go Public . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 NEWS: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Threats & Promises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

We The People Book Launch

Calendar Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

ARTS & CULTURE: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Finster Fest

Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Adopt Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Local Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Jim E. Brown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 SCREENCAP VIA YOUTUBE

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alicia Nickles PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner ADVERTISING SALES Isabella Williams, Rachel Watkins 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 McClain Baxley, Chris Dowd, Erin France, Gordon Lamb 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

STREET ADDRESS: 220 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30601 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603 EDITORIAL: 706-­549-­9523 · ADVERTISING: 706-­549-­0301 CLASSIFIED ADS: class@flagpole.com ADVERTISING: ads@flagpole.com CALENDAR: calendar@flagpole.com EDITORIAL: editorial@flagpole.com

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COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Go Public by Matt Miller (see story on p. 12)

VOLUME 40 ISSUE NUMBER 37

2011–2020

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

online exclusive An estimated 1,400 people turned out for a rally Sunday, Sept. 13 at the Georgia Theatre headlined by Sen. Jon Ossoff and gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms. See “Athens Rally for Jon Ossoff and Keisha Lance Bottoms” at flagpole.com.

BUY SELL RENT HIRE Interact with real, local, human beings. 706-549-9523 • class@flagpole.com S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Have your business included in our 2026 Annual

Pink Party Pink Party with a Purpose Pink Party with a Purpose with a Purpose

Directory of Fitness & Health Businesses

Join us as we turn Piedmont Athens Regional’s Community Garden Pink!

featured in

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Oct. 7th issue Take up to 60 words to tell our readers what your business has to offer to help get them in shape & keep them healthy.

Only $100 with print ad! ($200 without print ad) Deadline: Sept. 29th

Come raise awareness, celebrate courage, and show support for those Join us as we turnby Piedmont AthensWe Regional’s Garden Pink! impacted breast cancer. will have Community light refreshments, stations, and vendor tables forshow you tosupport enjoy. for those Come raiseactivity awareness, celebrate courage, and

impacted by breast cancer. We will have light refreshments, activity stations, and vendor tables for you to enjoy. Dress comfortably andand wear pink Come raise awareness, celebrate courage, show support for those impacted byOctober breast cancer. We will have light Sunday, 4,Garden 2026 from 2 refreshments, to 4 p.m. Piedmont Athensactivity Regional Community | 285 Talmadge stations, and vendor tables for you to Drive enjoy.• Athens, Georgia Join us as we turn Piedmont Athens Regional’s Community Garden Pink! Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Dress comfortably and wear pink

Free parking available at the Medical Services Building, 242 King Avenue. Garden is adjacent lot. Piedmont Athens Regional Community Gardento|parking 285 Talmadge Drive • Athens, Georgia

Sunday, October 4, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m. Dress comfortably and wear pink

Free parking available at the Medical Services Building, 242 King Avenue. The afternoon will also include: Garden is adjacent to parking lot. Piedmont Athens Regional Community Garden | 285 Talmadge Drive • Athens, Georgia 2:30 to 3 p.m. Wellness stroll with Fiona Denham and Katie Free parking available at theDrs. Medical Services Building, 242 Moore King Avenue. The afternoon will also include: Garden is adjacent to parking lot. 3 to 3:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m. Tai Chito in3the Park Wellness stroll with Drs. Fiona and Katie Moore The afternoon willDenham also include: 3 to 4 p.m. 32:30 to 3:30 p.m. Tours of the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Griffin-DuBose Healing Lodge, to 3Support, p.m. Tai Chi in the Park Piedmont AthensWellness Regionalstroll Breast Health Center, and shop the Beautiful with Drs. Fiona Denham andinKatie Moore You Boutique

to3:30 4 p.m. 33to p.m. TaiCancer Chi in the Park Griffin-DuBose Healing Lodge, Tours of the Loran Smith Center for Support, Please email parcommunityrelations@piedmont.org Piedmont Athens Regional Breast Health Center, and or shop in the Beautiful You Boutique to 4 p.m. 25. call 706.475,7025 to R.S.V.P. by Friday, 3September Tours of the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support, Griffin-DuBose Healing Lodge, Piedmont Athens Regional Breast Health Center, and shop in the Beautiful You Boutique Please email parcommunityrelations@piedmont.org or call 706.475,7025 to R.S.V.P. by Friday, September 25. Please email parcommunityrelations@piedmont.org or call 706.475,7025 to R.S.V.P. by Friday, September 25.

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DONATE A FEW BUCKS With a recurring donation through 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

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city dope

Moon Tree or More Parking? COMMISSIONERS CRITIQUE JUDICIAL CENTER PLAN, AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued and Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com The two biggest questions about a new judicial center on Dougherty Street downtown have been: Where will people park? And, can the Moon Tree be saved? Athens-­Clarke County commissioners may have to choose between the two.

A rendering of the proposed judicial center.

Architects and county officials presented a preliminary design for the $240 million judicial center last week, with two site plan options. One would maximize parking, with 26 spaces in an exterior lot between the judicial center and First AME Church. The other would include 17 parking spaces and a pocket park surrounding a longleaf pine grown from a seed that traveled to the moon on an Apollo mission in the early 1970s. First AME members currently use the parking lot at the Dougherty Street government building after hours and on weekends, when ACC offices are closed. “Their preferred option is the option that preserves more parking,” ACC Manager Bob Cowell said. “They would like ACCgov to construct more parking for them. That’s beyond the scope of this project, obviously.” Some commissioners expressed a preference for church parking over preserving the Moon Tree. “People are going to have to park somewhere,” Commissioner Dexter Fisher said. With the Moon Tree plan, a few parking spaces could be added on Dougherty and Strong streets, but not nine, according to Cowell. Commissioner Allison Wright agreed, saying, “I prefer parking over losing parking for a tree.” But she was not necessarily interested in providing parking for a church at taxpayer expense. “We can’t prioritize another entity’s parking for the community’s money being spent on this,” she said. The priorities should be security and the dignity of both criminal defendants and the general public. Link asked about possibly shrinking the pocket park to add more parking. “We couldn’t move the parking any further toward Dougherty because we’d be impact-

ing the tree even more,” Director of Capital Projects Josh Hawkins responded. The Moon Tree appears healthy, but at 50 years old it is more than halfway through its lifespan, according to Cowell, and there is no guarantee it would survive

providing incentives for affordable housing construction). Orr said he used features like step-­backs, cornices and a colonnade to break up the structure’s vertical mass, particularly on the side facing First AME. But with a small parcel of land to work on and a need for more space versus the current courthouse, the 6–7 story building was always going to be tall, Cowell added. Link had a number of quibbles with the design’s details, and said it looks too modern for the tastes of those who prefer a traditional courthouse. “I think it’s a really cool building, but to me it’s more Starfleet Academy than Classic City courthouse,” she said. Wright disagreed. “It is modern. It should be modern. The whole point is a new, modern judicial center,” she said. After a decade of judges, the sheriff and other court officials telling commissioners that the courthouse is overcrowded and outdated— as well as a few elevator malfunctions that illustrated the building’s age—the mayor and commission placed $78 million for a new judicial center on the SPLOST 2020 list for voters’ approval. A space study determined that the current courthouse could not be expanded for a second time nor easily renovated to add modern security features like interior hallways and special elevators to transport inmates separately from

money to buy privately owned property like the former Piggly Wiggly shopping center on North Avenue. After getting tired of waiting to see if the federal government would be willing to hand over the Robert G. Stephens Federal Building, the commission opted to use the current site of the Transportation and Public Works, Planning and Building Inspections departments. By that time, the project’s price tag had nearly tripled, thanks to the commission initially lowballing the cost, post-­COVID inflation and tariffs that hit the construction industry hard. The budget is now $240 million, up 7% from the previous estimate, which includes the cost of temporarily relocating ACC employees who work at the Dougherty Street building and renovating the courthouse for ACC government offices, but not interest on bonds or the cost of a new parking deck that will likely be needed. In the coming months, the commission will be asked to issue bonds to cover the remaining $162 million, as well as deciding whether to pay back those bonds with a property tax hike or sales taxes from future SPLOSTs. Once the existing courthouse building is renovated, the county would be able to consolidate far-­flung offices and sell those properties. [Blake Aued]

Commissioner Questions EMS Credibility After hearing a twice-­yearly report on the performance of emergency medical services in Athens, Athens-­Clarke County Commissioner Carol Myers had some harsh words for National EMS, the ambulance company that currently serves both Athens-­Clarke and Oconee County. National EMS, a for-­profit company, has faced criticism from both counties over the years about different aspects of its performance, including the speed at which the company’s ambulances are able to respond to emergencies. The Oconee County Board of Commissioners voted to end its relationship with National EMS in April because of “slow response times… billing prob-

construction. Nor can it be moved. “Even with the pocket park, there are concerns about disruption with construction,” he said. “It would be as protected as it can be.” Were the Moon Tree to be removed or otherwise die, ACC would work with UGA foresters to plant a seedling or clone of the tree elsewhere, county officials have said. Cowell said at the Sept. 8 work session that he would bring both site plans up for a vote in October. “There’s not even a quorum here, and I’m not necessarily hearing a clear direction on that,” he said. Todd Orr, a principal at DLR Group who specializes in courthouses, said his design was influenced by public input gathered online and during an in-­person session. “First and foremost, a common theme was the building should look like a courthouse,” he said. About half of public feedback favored a traditional look, a quarter wanted a modern design, and a quarter preferred National EMS map designating urban and non-urban areas of Athens-Clarke County. a blend. Using the existing courthouse and City lems, staffing issues, anticipated increased Hall as references, Orr said that civic buildthe public. It is also not laid out in a logical costs and the lack of county control,” as ings in Athens tend to be lighter colored, fashion, with related functions like courtreported by Lee Becker of Oconee County whereas academic and commercial buildings rooms and prosecutors on different floors. Observations. are usually red brick. The mayor and commission rejected the At a work session last Tuesday, Myers As currently drawn, the judicial center idea of building the judicial center near questioned the legitimacy of a map that would average 125 feet in height, well over the jail because of the optics and the lack National EMS uses to determine how downtown’s 100-­foot limit (which could of transit service, as well as a desire not to be raised soon through unrelated revisions uproot law offices or damage the downtown quickly its ambulances should respond to ➤ continued on next page to ACC’s inclusionary zoning ordinance economy. They also did not want to spend

S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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continued from p. 5

medical 911 calls. “I don’t know where that map came from. When we’ve asked before, it’s been like, ‘Oh, it’s always been there,’” Myers said. “I really think we need to move away from this map. It doesn’t make sense in terms of differentiating response times.” Commonly used standards suggest that ambulances should respond to medical emergencies in under nine minutes in urban areas, or under 13 minutes in non-­urban areas. While the importance of prompt ambulance responses to all emergencies is sometimes downplayed by medical professionals, response times remain a convenient metric for judging an agency’s performance. This is why the map is important—National EMS argues that it shouldn’t be held to a strict, sub-­nine-­ minute response time standard for all of Athens, only for part of the county. Some parts of Athens-­Clarke County are indeed rural. The question is, which parts of the county and why? For example, according to the National EMS map, Gaines School Road and the Cedar Creek neighborhood are urban. But the Green Acres/Crestwood area just to the south is not. Other areas considered “non-­urban” by National EMS include the Woodhaven and High Ridge neighborhoods, everything west of Whitehead Road and the city of Winterville. Even Atlanta Highway outside the Loop is considered “non-­urban” according to this map (except for the Georgia Square Mall property). “This [map] doesn’t even make sense,” Myers said. “It puts my neighborhood, which is really close to your EMS Eastside [station] in a non-­urban area, but Cedar Shoals in the urban area… Riverbend, which is just covered in apartment complexes, is in the non-­urban area as well. There might be some historical reason for this from way back when, but we need to put this into the present time for 2026.” National EMS Operations Manager Tracy LaFlam, who gave the presentation to the mayor and commission, could not explain why the map was drawn as it is. The map has been in use at least since 2019, which was the last (and maybe the first)

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time it was presented publicly. However, it’s possible the map has been in use ever since 2009, the year Piedmont Athens Regional (then Athens Regional Medical Center) and St. Mary’s Hospital outsourced ambulance service to National EMS. That would mean it could be based on census data from the year 2000. According to the company’s performance metrics from April to June, National EMS ambulances responded three minutes slower on average to 911 calls in areas they consider to be “non-­urban.” Unlike National EMS, the ACC Fire Department does not distinguish between urban and non-­urban zones, and holds itself to the same sub-­ nine minute standard across all of Athens. ACC firefighters met this strict standard with almost a minute to spare, while their for-­profit counterparts trailed nearly five minutes behind in urban areas and eight minutes behind in so-­called “non-­urban” areas. Myers requested National EMS’ raw, unedited response time data, which she said is needed to establish “credibility.” Myers asked for this data in January but never received it. Between April and June, the ACC Fire Department never experienced system saturation, always having at least three of its 15 EMS units ready and available to respond to emergencies. National EMS, which has only 13 total EMS units spread over two counties, experienced system saturation 19 times over the three-­month period. That means more than once a week, on average, National EMS had no available ambulances capable of responding to emergencies, and had to rely on the ACC Fire Department or another agency to provide assistance. ACC Manager Bob Cowell remarked that this was “all the more reason why we need to continue to emphasize the advancement of both our training [of ACC firefighters, who are cross-­trained as EMTs] as well as the equipment and the protocols we have in place.” Oconee County plans to end its relationship with National EMS and start a new, county-­run EMS department on Dec. 31. [Chris Dowd] f

F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

news

feature

Mike Collins’ Greatest Hits THE CONGRESSMAN AND SENATE CANDIDATE’S MANY CONTROVERSIES

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

F

rom a no-­show job for his chief of staff’s girlfriend to ties with neo-­ Nazis, scandals continue to dog U.S. Rep. Mike Collins’ Senate campaign. Democrats from Collins’ 10th District—which includes Athens—highlighted some of those alleged misdeeds last week during a news conference outside the Republican’s Monroe office. “Our congressman is obstructing an investigation into illegal misuse of taxpayer dollars. That’s a major scandal,” Madison County resident Dave Ramsey said. “He has no place in the United States Senate.” Here’s a look at some of the controversies surrounding Collins. FAKE INTERNSHIP: Collins’ office has been

imagery in comments across the internet.” He has posted videos for 1.5 million followers accusing Jews of committing the 9/11 attacks and killing President John F. Kennedy and conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Collins eventually distanced himself from his son-­in-­law’s views. Kip Talley, who replaced Phillips as chief of staff, was in a group chat with prominent white nationalists like Richard Spencer and Nick Fuentes. Talley reached out to the chat for help in getting racist Holocaust denier Charles Johnson out of prison. He said he was acting in his personal capacity; Collins’ office refused to comment. TWITTER TROUBLE: In 2024, Collins quote-­ tweeted a known antisemitic X user “GarbageHuman” implying that a reporter

accused of paying $10,000 to an intern, Caroline Craze, who was rarely seen in the office for the in-­person position. At the time, Craze was dating Collins’ chief of staff Brandon Phillips, and also had a job in Atlanta. Tipsters also accused Phillips of racking up excessive travel expenses on the taxpayer dime, and using government resources to conduct A small group of District 10 Democrats gathered in Monroe on Sept. 8 to campaign work. An question Rep. Mike Collins’ conduct. Office of Congressional Conduct report said the New York Post criticized as soft on that Collins had been uncooperative, and suggested that the House Ethics Committee crime is Jewish, commenting, “Never was a second thought.” He said the tweet was subpoena him. Phillips left Collins’ office, but then went misunderstood. This was a month after X suspended his account for suggesting to work for his campaign. He was later fired that undocumented immigrants should be for a tweet making light of a rival GOP thrown out of helicopters. strategist’s wife’s sexual assault allegations Around the same time, Collins posted in against NBC coworker Matt Lauer. Shortly before Collins hired him, Phillips praise of a group of college students who jeered protesting Palestine supporters, was arrested on charges of kicking a dog. In including one who mocked a Black woman 2016, he resigned as Donald Trump’s state by making monkey noises. “Ole Miss taking director for Georgia after WSB-­T V revealed care of business,” Collins wrote. a criminal history that included pleading guilty to criminal trespass and battery in GET A JOB, GRANDMA: During a 2025 radio 2008. He was also arrested after an alterinterview, Collins defended the Trump cation with a neighbor involving a gun, but administration’s signature “One Big those charges were dropped. Beautiful Bill” by saying tax cuts would KKK COSTUME: Another former staffer, make it “more advantageous for people to Preston Parra, posted swastikas and images work, and to get off of Medicaid, get off of of himself in a Ku Klux Klan robe holding Social Security, get back in the workforce.” a pointed white hood, The Washington Post Newton County resident Linda Woodreported last month. In a statement, the worth responded at the Monroe event: “He Collins campaign condemned the posts as doesn’t consider us older folks worthy of our “vile” and “completely unhinged,” while earnings, but billionaires apparently are.” blaming a rise in anti-­Semitism on “Jon WHERE’S MIKE?: Collins has drawn much Ossoff’s allies like Hasan Piker and Abdul criticism for rarely appearing in Athens, El-­Sayed.” to the point where the progressive group MORE NEO-­NAZIS: That was not the first Indivisible Georgia 10 organized a mock time Collins and Co. have flirted with town hall meeting last year in which they white nationalists. CNN described David questioned the absent congressmen. Alan Scheer II, who is married to Collins’ Protesters also frequently gather outside his daughter and has been involved with his district office in Monroe seeking an audicampaign, as “a pro-­white nationalist and ence. “Why won’t he answer questions, and social media influencer with a track record why doesn’t he ever show up at his office?” of sharing antisemitic material and Nazi Monroe resident Arron Giles wondered. f

BLAKE AUED

City Dope

news

feature

news

feature

Linnentown Memorial

We the Voters

By Chris Dowd news@flagpole.com

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

T

It

PUBLIC ART PROJECT MOVES FORWARD WITHOUT UGA’S INVOLVEMENT

he Athens-­Clarke County Commission has approved a tentative concept for a memorial to be installed near the UGA campus for the once-­thriving Black neighborhood of Linnentown, which was destroyed to build the Brumby Hall, Creswell Hall and Russell Hall dormitories. The “Walk of Recognition” is a public art project memorializing the destroyed neighborhood. The city of Athens razed Linnentown during the “urban renewal” period of the 1960s at the request of the University of Georgia, which planned to expand its campus. As a result, Linnentown residents were forcefully displaced from their homes and greatly undercompensated for their property, according to former residents and a study performed by UGA geography professor Jerry Shannon.

struction and cause a reduction in project scope. The Linnentown Walk of Recognition was originally planned to have multiple stops and a large mosaic cooperatively constructed by community members working side-­by-­side with former Linnentown residents. The new, slimmed-­down version of the design includes a historical marker and an art project designed to fit within the portion of the right-­of-­way owned by the ACC government. One ACC government-­owned parking space at this location will be removed to create a small pedestrian plaza where passers-­by can view the exhibit in safety from oncoming traffic. The art piece will also include artistic representations of residents who actually lived in the Linnentown neighborhood as they would have appeared in the 1960s. With their vote on Sept. 1, ACC commissioners also approved the text of the historical marker, which will read: “Established around 1900, Linnentown was a thriving Black community on 22 acres. It included South Finley Street (now Linnentown Lane), Lyndon Row, and Peabody Street. Approximately 55 families lived here, A rendering of a preliminary concept for “Echoes of Linnentown” by artist with 66% owning Jonathan Imafidor superimposed over its future location. their homes. Residents included skilled This grim chapter of Athens history went workers, beauticians, electricians, brick unacknowledged by the two institutions masons, cooks, a nurse and even a prountil the height of the Black Lives Matter fessional baseball player. The community movement in 2021, when the ACC governvalued education, with children attending ment formally apologized for its actions. Union Baptist Institute or Reese Street The formal apology, called the Linnentown School and residents raising funds to supResolution, condemned the urban renewal port higher education. Linnentown was project as an act of “institutionalized white erased through the University of Georgia racism and terrorism.” Going further, Urban Renewal Project (Ga. R-­50), comMayor Kelly Girtz created the ACC Juspleted in 1966. This project was carried out tice and Memory Project in an attempt to by the City of Athens, in collaboration with make amends for the harm the city caused. the University System of Georgia, to build Chaired by author, activist and former the Brumby, Creswell and Russell residence Linnentown resident Hattie Thomas White- halls.” head, the Athens Justice and Memory ProjIn 2025, the ACC government once again ect has made numerous recommendations invited UGA to participate in this project, to the local government over the years, but the university again refused. Regardless including a request for the installation of of the university’s lack of participation and, a memorial at the site of the destroyed at times, outright hostility towards this neighborhood. effort, the Linnentown Walk of Recognition The memorial’s construction was greatly should be completed sometime next year. complicated due to strong resistance from An unveiling of the pedestrian plaza and the university. Unlike the ACC governhistorical marker is expected later this year. ment, the University of Georgia has never “This is very historic,” Thomas Whiteapologized for its role in the destruction of head said during public comment at the Linnentown. When the memorial was first Sept. 1 meeting. “It shows how you can proposed, UGA refused to participate in work with the mayor and commission to get the planning process and later threatened a things done. It’s very important that this lawsuit should the construction go forward. [memorial] will be here for generations to UGA claimed to own the right-­of-­way at come. On behalf of all the first descendants South Finley Street (now called Linnentown of Linnentown, the residents who are not Lane at this location) and Baxter Street, a here any longer and all of the community, I claim that was credible enough to halt conjust want to say thank you.” f

UGA LAW PROFESSOR’S NEW BOOK EXPLAINS ELECTIONS

was just six years ago that President real problems with elections in the afterDonald Trump declared the 2020 math of that. election “rigged” and tried to subvert the “But the takeaway from that isn’t that arcane vote-​counting process to have the everything will be fine. The takeaway from results overturned. But who gets to vote that is that what people do matters, because and how elections are conducted have been it can change the trajectory. If you think a topic of debate since the United States’ something is unprecedented, it’s easy to fall founding. into despair. We have been through really, University of Georgia law professor Lori really bad things about elections before, and Ringhand’s new book, We the Voters: The it’s been so much worse, and things change Constitutional Choices That Shape America’s because people do stuff. So pick your thing Election, details those debates going back and do it.” to the Declaration of Independence in 1776. In 152 pages (not including endnotes), Ringhand covers how the Founding Fathers decided on the details of our system of representative democracy; why an Electoral College picks the president; the Reconstruction-​era constitutional amendments that vastly expanded voting rights for African Americans and the passage of civil rights legislation in the 1960s; and the Supreme Court subsequently chipping away at those rights. The book evolved out of Ringhand’s notes for virtual lectures when she was teaching an undergraduate course during the COVID-​19 pandemic. “The 2020 election really made it clear that there was a lot of confusion around how elections work and why they work the way they do,” she tells Flagpole. “At moments like that, you feel like you have this expertise that maybe you want to convey to a broader audience.” Ringhand’s specialties are constitutional law and the Supreme Court— she’s written two books about Supreme Lori Ringhand Court nominations—so she’s well positioned to provide insight into recent cases As a law professor, Ringhand mostly involving elections, such as a challenge to avoids taking stances on political issues. a Trump executive order limiting voting by However, she makes clear her distaste for mail. Ringhand points to Article 1, Section the Electoral College, which “never worked 4 of the Constitution, which divides author- from the very beginning,” and supports ity over federal elections between the states a constitutional amendment to get rid of and Congress. There is no role for the presit. That may seem like a heavy lift, but in ident, she says. “You never say never with the meantime, she has other suggestions. this court, but I think what they’re going to One is to eliminate the Senate filibuster. do is enjoin it for this election, then let the Another is to increase the size of the House lower-​court process play out.” of Representatives, which would also mitiWhile the Roberts court has consistently gate the Electoral College’s inherent unfairallowed partisan gerrymandering and ness. A third is to repeal a law requiring weakened the Voting Rights Act in Callais single-​member districts, allowing states to v. Louisiana, the court also recently ruled experiment and encouraging minor parties that congressional elections in Missouri to evolve. will move forward under its old district Despite the system’s flaws, Ringhand map, setting aside a new map that created says Americans should be confident in their an additional Republican seat. So what will elections. “Any time you have 150 million happen if Trump again challenges the elecpeople voting, there’s going to be errors. tion results this fall? “I think what we saw That’s just inevitable,” she says. “But every in 2020 was that the Supreme Court really serious evaluation of our election system did hold the line on election claims that has demonstrated repeatedly that they are came before the court,” Ringhand says. “I fair, and they are accurate. We really can’t, hope they do the same this time around.” as a country, lose faith in that.” f As We the Voters shows, modern issues like gerrymandering and voting rights are just the latest version of debates dating WHAT: Lori Ringhand book launch back more than 200 years. “Most of this WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 17, 6 p.m. isn’t unprecedented,” Ringhand says. “We WHERE: Athens-​Clarke County Library tend to toss the word ‘unprecedented’ HOW MUCH: FREE! around a lot. You know, the Civil War happened. There was a lot of fraud. There were

S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

7

arts & culture

flag football

food & drink

good growing

Smart’s Still Not Satisfied

Birds, Butterflies and Biology, Oh My!

By McClain Baxley news@flagpole.com

By Erin France editorial@flagpole.com

In Georgia’s first two football games of 2026, they’ve shown that they can beat up on the smaller team. Last week they beat Tennessee State with ease in 100-­degree weather, and against an (on paper) better team in Western Kentucky Saturday, the Bulldogs had their way. Georgia was up 21-­0 midway through the first quarter, extended their lead to 49-­0 with just under six minutes before halftime, and continued their domination all afternoon, winning 70-­20.

This Saturday, there’s plenty to discover about our natural world and local ecosystem. If you’re looking to beef up your plant and animal knowledge, get inspired about your own backyard, or just enjoy an informative talk, there are options. All of these events do require folks to register before they show up, so visit the links if you’re interested in attending.

UGA ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

was something Smart harped on throughout his postgame press conference. “I think we played more people in the second half than we’ve ever played before,” Smart said. “If you don’t get off the field on third down six consecutive times, you’re not ready to play for Georgia’s defense. If you can’t possess the ball on offense, then you can’t play. If you can’t crack block off a guy that is lined up inside you and hold your block and pin him, then you’re probably not ready. If your front five offensive linemen can’t move Western Kentucky’s defensive line, you’re gonna really struggle on the road when you play in the SEC. So there’s guys that want playing time and think they’re worthy of playing time just proved to me they don’t deserve it.” It’s a statement on where Smart has his alma mater a decade in. Georgia had one of their most impressive offensive outings in a while, with nine different Bulldogs In addition to recovering a fumble in the endzone, Ty Green had a 91-­yard scoring a touchdown, kickoff return. a feat that hadn’t happened since 2011. The Bulldogs are 2-­0 and are averaging The defense was good, forcing four 66.5 points per game. They’ve allowed just turnovers, including a 41-­yard interception 334 total yards. But head coach Kirby Smart return from Demello Jones and Tyriq Green isn’t fully convinced his team is where they recovering a fumble in the endzone. Still need to be with SEC play looming. “We got not good enough. a bunch of guys that aren’t ready to play,” “I think we executed pretty well today, Smart said after the game. “If we have a we were a little sloppy at times,” Stockton backup go in right now, we’re in a lot of said. “There’s a bunch of stuff I can get trouble.” better at, but you try not to be too hard [on Smart was mostly referring to the backyourself], but definitely there’s stuff we can ups who played much of the final three do there.” quarters. Starting quarterback Gunner And clearly the quality of opponents Stockton was 13-­of-­16 for 234 yards and has been low these first two games. Tenfive touchdowns. Hard to do too much nessee State is 0-­3 on the young season better than that against a Division I defense and has only found the endzone in one of on a sweltering day. those games. Western Kentucky was paid Stockton’s five touchdowns tied a $1.9 million to get blown out on national Georgia single-­game record, matching television. Stetson Bennett and Aaron Murray’s past Beginning next week, the schedule gradperformances. ually gets harder for the Bulldogs—who “Anytime like that, it feels good. You have had back-­to-­back games where they always want to score fast and execute at the scored at least 60 points since 1915, when end of the day and do your job,” Stockton they bested Dahlonega and Newberry. Next said. “It’s my last year, so I’m enjoying the week’s opponent, the Arkansas Razormoment and having fun.” backs, are indeed an SEC team, but they’re But after the senior exited, the offense nowhere near to the upper echelon of the fell off a bit. Backup quarterbacks Ryan conference. A string of games against OklaPuglisi and Ryan Montgomery combined homa, Vanderbilt and at Alabama is coming to go 3-­for-­9 for 25 yards and no passing soon, and maybe by then, the Bulldogs will touchdowns. Puglisi scampered for 79 yards be playing to the level Smart expects. and a score. “The opponents haven’t been SEC oppoIn the running game, which wasn’t as nents, so it’s all rosy and dandy until you go dominant as the week before, there were on the road, and you gotta play somebody two fumbles in the second half, and just one of SEC caliber, and it’s hard,” he said. “And running back surpassed 50 yards. also we have some adversity. This team has Western Kentucky outscored the Bullnot really had adversity, so we’re gonna find dogs 14-­7 in the fourth quarter. That depth out.” f

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

EDUCATIONAL EVENTS OVER THE WEEKEND

BEECH HAVEN SHOALS BIOBLITZ: Beech Haven Shoals is currently closed to the public as it undergoes improvements and is used as a space for research and conservation. This Saturday, you could wander through this 24-​acre preserve with a group of like-​ minded citizens and scientists, counting animals, plants and fungi. The BioBlitz, from 9 a.m. to noon, will encourage all participants to identify and record as many living species as possible in the area.

be held from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at the State Botanical Garden. Tickets for the general public are $100. Birds Georgia members have a discounted price of $75 and student admission is $40. Biologist and author David Georgia Haskell will be the keynote speaker, and his talk will focus on the relationship between birds and flowering plants. Haskell has written several books, including How Flowers Made Our World and The Songs of Trees. Other slated events include a live bird banding demonstration and a walk through the botanical garden with a focus on creating habitats for birds. This event, as well as others throughout September, help mark the 100th anniversary of Birds Georgia’s existence. Birds Georgia started with 14 members in 1926 “for the protection and study of our native birds.” Other bird-​ related events will be held throughout the RHODODENDRITES

GEORGIA ENTERS SEC SCHEDULE AFTER TWO BLOWOUT WINS

Monarch butterfly

Stephanie Green, Athens-​Clarke County’s Sustainability Department’s ecological resource coordinator, will help guide the event. Experts from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources will also attend. Volunteers will be expected to download the iNaturalist app to help record their observations. Favorite field guides, binoculars and a magnifying glass could help with the identification process as well. Attendees should come prepared for woodsy conditions, including bug spray, water, closed-​toe shoes and long pants to prevent tick bites. As of writing, there were a dozen slots left for this free event. You can check out availability and register at accgov.givepulse.com/ event/915538-​bio-​blitz-​at-​beech-​haven-​ shoals. FALL FLYWAY FESTIVAL: Also this weekend, Birds Georgia will host a series of events Friday and Saturday in the Athens area focused on birds. Friday evening includes a talk at Winterville’s Sunrise Nursery about native habitat. Saturday, events will

state and online in the month of September to mark the occasion. To register for this event, or explore the other centennial events, visit birdsgeorgia.org. MONARCH STEWARDSHIP: Another, but separate, Saturday event at the State Botanical Garden will focus on the monarch butterfly. Susan Meyers, a monarch watch conservation specialist, will talk about all things monarch from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday. The $65 class will include an outdoor hike to point out best practices for creating habitats for the noted butterfly. Scientists estimate monarch populations have dropped by as much as 90% in recent years. The bright butterfly is well known for its laborious migration of hundreds or even thousands of miles from summering across North America to winter in the warmer, tropical atmosphere in Mexico. As of this writing, there were still spaces left in the class. Register at botgarden.uga. edu/event/monarchs-​beyond-​pollinator-​ stewardship. f

AT IN G C E LE B R OU R 16! SW E ET

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Watercolor vs. Acrylic

People, Places & Imagined Worlds SEP 23, 24, 25

Diana Toma Workshop Join professional artist Diana Toma for a dynamic and inspiring 3-day watercolor workshop, with each day offering a new subject and creative focus. Visit georgiawatercolorsociety.com to register. SEP 26 10AM-12PM LIVE DEMO & “MEET AND GREET” DIANA TOMA | OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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live music calendar Tuesday 15

Thursday 17

Daily Groceries Co-​op Tuesday Tunes. 6–7:30 p.m. www. instagram.com/dailycoop ARUGULA OGLETHORPE Experimental, avant-​garde indie pop musician. Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. & 9 p.m. FREE! www.dead​ beatathens.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 PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials and live piano music. Ramsey Hall 7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring pianist Oliver Jia. State Botanical Garden of Georgia Sunflower Concert Series. 7 p.m. $12 (ages 5–16), $24. botgarden. uga.edu CLASSIC CITY JUKEBOX Local rock and roll cover band. WUOG Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org OPEN CARRY STATE Atlanta, GA screamo.

40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $20 (adv.), $25. www.40watt.com MDOU MOCTAR Nigerien guitarist, singer and songwriter who performs modern rock music inspired by Tuareg guitar music. Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $7. www.deadbeatathens.com SPACE BROTHER Local electronic artist utilizing hardware to make spaced out, psychedelic music inspired by science fiction and the unknown. GIFT FIG The solo project of forceghost. Arps with heart in the sleepy South. GINSENG AVATAR The psychedelic, Hedorah-​like, dub-​drenched rhythmic noise costume of Grant Evans. Busted drum machines and wigged-​out synths creep like chopped and screwed slime mold techno. Georgia Theatre Rooftop 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.georgiatheatre.com YUMBOTRON Electric guitar-​ driven, psychedelic Cumbia band featuring members of Pylon Reenactment Society, Bichos Vivos and Organically Programmed. WONDERLAND RANGERS Local rabble-​rouser Timi Conley performs dance-​tastic psych-​pop with his all-​ star backing band. 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 7 p.m. (sign-​ups), 8 p.m. (show). FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com JAZZ JAM Seth Hendershot and the house band Unstarched host an open jazz jam. Bring an instrument or your voice. Hotel Indigo Live After Five. 5:30–8 p.m. www. indigoathens.com FOLIE À QUATRE Playing a mix of French chansons, jazzy tunes and originals by Lavon Smith, accompanied on guitar, accordion and double bass. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. music.uga.edu UGA WIND ENSEMBLE Performing Paul Hindemith’s “Der Schwandreher,” featuring Maggie Snyder (viola). Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga DRÍ AND THE VIOLENCE Project of singer, percussionist and songwriter Adriana Thomas. VALLEY OF GIANTS Folk-​emo for anyone who’s missed something they can’t quite name. WILTING PAGES Musical alias of multi-​instrumentalist singer-​songwriter Lander Combs. The World Famous Volumes Hip Hop Presents. 9 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www.facebook.com/theworldfamousathens ELITE THA SHOWSTOPPA Artist who helped establish Athens as a scene for conscious hip hop in the early 2000s.

Wednesday 16 Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciatthefalls AUSTIN SISK & ALLIE BRYAN Singer-​songwriter duo playing alt-​ pop and country. Athentic Brewing Co. 6–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com THE SCHISIMS Psyche goth rock. Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket. net 38 STRINGS Multi-​generational acoustic folk music with 38 strings between them. (6 p.m.) Dead Beat Club 7 p.m. (two sets). FREE! www.deadbeatathens.com KILLICK HINDS & JEFF REILLY Playing with texture, rhythm and space to create an immersive submersion of abstractions for the songs of their new album, The Sloppiest Lobbyist. Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. Georgia Theatre Rooftop 8 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com MORRISSEY BLVD. Brother trio from New Bedford, MA playing high-​energy rock and pop music. Nowhere Bar 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/nowherebarathensga DEL ROSCOE Atlanta-​based gothic indie Americana band blending folk, outlaw country, and rock into a cinematic, emotionally charged sound.

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

DK Local artist weaving lyrically driven truths together with lo-​fi beats. DOPE KNIFE Rapper and producer from Savannah whose newest album is called Dark Woke. KXNG BLANCO Athens-​born artist leading the wave of contemporary hip hop and R&B. JAHKIEM Born and raised Athenian who brings positivity and versatility to his music. DMB BABY Athens-​based independent hip-​hop artist. KUROBANE Formerly known as AnimeZayy, contemporary hip-​hop artist.

Friday 18 ATHICA Sonic Space. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.athica.org SHRIMP RING Duo improvising with objects and electronics, composed of experimental sound artists Erin Demastes and Dylan Burchett. SWEATEARTHFLYING Emmie Pierce’s project using guitar, found objects and modular synths to create subtle and extreme sonic textures, spatio-​temporal distortions and serene waves of cut up music. BRYAN DAY California-​based sound artist, instrument inventor and conceptual artist who uses scavenged electronics, repurposed mechanical components and amplified materials in his constructivist sound sculptures. MARCEL SLETTEN California-​born and Athens-​based electronic music producer, composer and artist playing an ambient DJ set. Akins Ford Arena 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $109.75–699. www.classiccenter. com ELLA LANGLEY Rising singer-​ songwriter playing classic country with a modern touch. KAMERON MARLOWE Former “The Voice” contestant playing country music. LACI KAYE BOOTH Former “American Idol” contestant and Nashville-​based country singer-​ songwriter with small-​town Texas charm. Athentic Brewing Co. Mystic Market. 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). athenticbrewing.com LIZ FARRELL Folk, jazz, and indie pop influences manifesting in heartfelt vocals and intentional throughlines of ukulele and piano. PONDGORL Athens-​based artist Laila Li McCleery joins genre-​bending friends in a band of beautiful, harmonious DIY glory. Dead Beat Club 8:30 p.m. $5. www.deadbeatathens. com THE CELLAR LANTERN HYMNS Local band that plays an eclectic blend of genres including Midwest emo, indie punk, folk and more. UNUS MUNDUS Heavy music damage from the South, as things go south. Flicker Theatre & Bar Shadebeast Fest Night One. 8:30 p.m. $15. www.flickertheatreandbar.com GUILLOTINE A.D. Brutal Southern death metal trio influenced by classic death metal, New Orleans sludge and Scandinavian black metal. WHETHER Haunting, ethereal doom.

COACHLIGHT Modern metal from Central Arkansas. Hendershot’s Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $12 (adv.), $15. www.hendershotsathens.com THOMAS DOLLBAUM Indie-​rock storyteller searching for acceptance in the transient in-​between places on his newest record, Birds of Paradise.. REAGAN BYRD Singer-​songwriter known for his work in Heffner. Solo acoustic debut! Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. $75–107 (discount w/ UGA ID). pac.uga.edu BÉLA FLECK Bold banjo player whose musical journey that has earned him 19 Grammy Awards in nine different fields, playing with a band that spotlights a multi-​generational gamut of the best bluegrass players. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga VICIOUS DEVIL Project from Curtiss Pernice, Ballard Lesemann and Larry Tenner. Album release show! EATING New Athens rock band. Southern Drawl Bar & Grille 5–10 p.m. www.southerndrawlbarand​ grille.com KARAOKE Every Friday night. VFW Post 2872 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/vfw2872 CHRIS HAMPTON BAND Athens-​ based band performing a variety of country, western and rock dance music with line dancing during the breaks.

Saturday 19 Athentic Brewing Co. Chelsyfest. 2–8 p.m. www.chelsyfest. org HENDERSON/WILLIAMS Singer-​ songwriter duo pulling from the Great American Songbook. (2 p.m.) LIBBALOOPS Electronic musician and looping artist who loves to be silly and get “loopy doopy.” (3 p.m.) DAVIS DOSTERS Acoustic indie folk. (4 p.m.) THE ASHTON DOOLEY BAND Country-​rock party band. (5:30 p.m.) THE AMBLERS Americana and roots-​influenced band. (6:30 p.m.) CLASSIC CITY JUKEBOX Local rock and roll cover band. (7:30 p.m.) Bishop Park Athens Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmers​ market.net JIM COOK High-​energy solo blues, classic rock and roots music. (9 a.m.) Ciné Athens Goth Night Dance Party. 9 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com DJ CROWE DJ Steven Crowe. DJ TOMB LILY Adria Stembridge of Tears For The Dying spins deathrock, post-​punk, goth and more. TWIN POWERS Local DJ who is also a member of DJ trio Booty Boyz. DJ GOTH DAD Dustin Gannon of Vision Video leads a dance party spinning goth, post-​punk, ’80s, Halloween music and more.

Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $10. www.deadbeatathens.com GO PUBLIC Atlanta/Athens shimmering and moving post-​punk/rock. Album release show! PYLON REENACTMENT SOCIETY Vanessa Briscoe Hay and an all-​star cast of locals play the music of Pylon, plus new originals. OTHER VOICES, OTHER ROOMS House, rap and shoegaze-​inspired music on synth hardware. HAMAIXA Live solo electronics and modular synth project inspired by house, electro and musique concrète. Flicker Theatre & Bar Shadebeast Fest Night Two. 8:30 p.m. $15. www.flickertheatreandbar.com LAZER/WULF Progressive metal trio formed in Athens. GENERATION OF VIPERS Sludgy noise rock/post-​hardcore formed in Knoxville, TN. PALACES Heavy four-​piece band from Atlanta. Flying Squid Comedy 7:30 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $12. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com APOSTLE Post-​blackened hardcore from Atlanta. SACRED BULL Athens post-​metal known for its heavy and dark combination of meditative melodies and deliberate cacophony. MUELAS Experimental hardcore band from Atlanta. THRONES Atlanta hardcore. Front Porch Bookstore 6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook REPENT AT LEISURE Celtic pub band playing “Irish rock,” including traditional, punk, modern and original Celtic music. Georgia Theatre 7:30 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $22.51 (early bird). www.georgia​ theatre.com REWIND: THE ULTIMATE 2000S RAVE The biggest Y2K hits reworked through exclusive edits, remixes and mashups. 2000s clothing encouraged. Memorial Park Administration Building AFMDS Contra Dance. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7–10 p.m. (dance). FREE! (17 & under), $10–12. www. athensfolk.org RPPM Live music for a contra dance hosted by Athens Folk Music and Dance Society. No. 3 Railroad Street 7 p.m. $20 suggested donation. www.3railroad.org CAROLINE AIKEN Heartfelt folk singer-​songwriter who has played Athens since 1978. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. $10. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga THE ARCS Local scene veterans from The Possibilities, Ceiling Fan and The Wydelles deliver a concise, yet dynamic form of classic power pop. NORMALTOWN SOUND MACHINE Five-​piece band that performs asymmetrical compositions that are bracing yet melodic, drawing inspiration from Cardigans, LCD Soundsystem, Stereolab and The Pretenders. Album release show! The Old Pal 10 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ theoldpal 13TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Late night dance party.

RSVP for Location Attaboy Garden Show. 5:30 p.m. $12. www.instagram.com/attaboytapes JULIE ODELL Asheville singer-​ songwriter who weaves her visions of folk, poetry and colorful melodies into a warm and brilliant tapestry. IAIN COOKE Multi-​instrumentalist and songwriter from Athens who writes music that is equal parts confessional, composed and catchy. ROAN O’REILLY Musician, recording engineer and math rock enthusiast. The World Famous 6:30 p.m. www.facebook.com/the​ worldfamousathens THE HOWDIES Honky tonking, hillbilly music from Athens. THE WELFARE LINERS Five-​ piece local bluegrass unit blending classic tunes with melodic, high-​ lonesome originals. INTRACOASTAL PLAYBOYS Savannah band playing classic country covers. A.M. RODRIGUEZ Performing gritty folk, country and Piedmont blues on guitar and piano.

Sunday 20 The Globe 4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION Easy listening traditional Irish music. Mellow Mushroom HARD TACK Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). www.instagram. com/h.a.r.d.t.a.c.k DEGREASER Back of house hardcore punk from Atlanta. TAXPAYER Punk band. WRITHE Extra filthy stoner grunge. TOMMYGUN Athens punk band. 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. RSVP for Location Attaboy House Show. 7 p.m. $12. www.instagram.com/attaboytapes FROWN TOWN Shane Perry of Nashville’s The Medium plays ’60s and ’70s influenced baroque psych pop. THE UNBELIEVING DOG Power pop alt-​country songs from Iain Cooke and friends. SWAMP ASS SISTERS BAND Poetic and humorous Americana music inspired by ’60s and ’70s songwriting. ROWAN NEWBY New psych folk project from Macon. The World Famous 9 p.m. SOLD OUT! www.facebook. com/theworldfamousathens JIM E. BROWN Manchester, UK-​based musician and poet who writes about addiction, illness and instability.

Monday 21 Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand​ bar.com BLUE MONDAY De La Luna and DJ Charlieflower spin new wave, post-​punk, remixes, goth and Italo disco for this ’80s dance party.

Normaltown Brewing Co. 6:30 p.m. (sign-​ups), 7–9 p.m. (show). FREE! www.normaltown​ brewingco.com MONDAY FUNDAY FUNK JAM Will Shine hosts this open jam with a house band made up of rotating local musicians. Nuçi’s Space 7–10 p.m. www.nuci.org MONDAY MIXTAPE OPEN MIC Take the stage, share your music and vibe out with the Nuçi’s community. The crowd favorite wins two free hours of Amplify Studio time. Every third Monday on the month. Ramsey Hall 7:30 p.m. music.uga.edu FACULTY RECITAL A performance from the Georgia Woodwind Quintet, the Ensemble in Residence at the Hugh Hodgson School of Music.

Tuesday 22 Daily Groceries Co-​op 6–7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ dailycoop TUESDAY TUNES Rotating local musicians play stripped down sets. 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.” Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com OUTER WORLD Richmond, VA project inspired by retro-​future, crate digger delights, French freakbeats, Bond spy themes, space-​age post-​punk and more. FORCEGHOST Ambient house with arps and heart in the sleepy South. SERF LORDS Post-​apocalyptic surf punk embedded in 8-​bit DOS hellscapes. Hendershot’s 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials and live piano music. WUOG Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org THE WRAPS Alternative rock band based in Athens with a sleek, sparky sound that some might call vintage.

Wednesday 23 40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $35 (adv.), $40. www.40watt.com THE DEVIL MAKES THREE Band from Santa Cruz, CA whose music combines a wide array of influences including Americana, folk, bluegrass, old time, country, blues, jazz, punk and ragtime music. TIM BARRY Lead singer of the Richmond, VA punk rock band Avail who makes folk music in his own time. Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciat​ thefalls AUSTIN SISK & ALLIE BRYAN Singer-​songwriter duo playing alt-​ pop and country. Athentic Brewing Co. 7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Second and fourth Wednesdays. Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket.net RED OAK STRING BAND Local band playing a feel-​good blend of

bluegrass, blues, folk, rock and classic country. (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. Georgia Theatre 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $26.44. www.georgiatheatre.com HARVEY STREET Indie and alternative rock tinged with Southern influences from Raleigh, NC. THE BACK ALLEY High-​powered Chicago indie-​rock quintet created to make you jam out. Hendershot’s Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www. hendershotsathens.com STEVIE TOMBSTONE A quintessential troubadour, a veteran musician who crafts powerful folk songs tinged with classic country and vintage blues influences. MATT WILLIAMS Guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer of Pickled Holler, Brother Fat, Granfalloons and more. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu WIND SYMPHONY Performing the finest standard and new repertoire for wind band. SYMPHONIC BAND Experienced undergraduate music majors, minors and non-​majors from across campus play classic band repertoire and new music. Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebar​ athensga CYNTRYST Hard rock featuring fast, aggressive riffs contrasted with softer notes. Ramsey Hall 3:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu UGA REPERTORY SINGERS A mixed chamber choir directed by graduate student conductors.

Down the Line 9/24 Michael Wegner & Friends (Hotel Indigo) 9/24 Blues on Tap (Athentic Brewing Co.) 9/24 Mary & The Hot Hotty-​Hots (The Globe) 9/24 Big Band Athens (Hendershot’s) 9/25 Karaoke (Southern Drawl Bar & Grille) 9/25 Kinchafoonee Cowboys, BTBTE (Paloma Park) 9/25 Shehehe (40 Watt Club) 9/25 Drivin N Cryin, Kimberly Morgan York (Live Wire) 9/25 Tommy Hedgehog, KIT, Freeman Leverett (Dead Beat Club) 9/27 Austin Sisk (Amici at The Falls) 9/27 Traditional Irish Session (The Globe) 9/27 Folie à Cinq (Oak House Distillery) 9/27 Vinyl Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) 9/28 Monday Funday Funk Jam (Normaltown Brewing Co.) 9/28 Fai Laci, superstar (40 Watt Club) 9/29 Piano Bar Happy Hour (Hendershot’s) 9/29 Tuesday Tunes (Daily Groceries Co-​op) 9/29 The Dream Syndicate, Elf Power (40 Watt Club) 9/29 Kenosha Kid (Dead Beat Club) 9/29 Okey (WUOG) 9/30 Caroline Aiken, Caroline Milby, pondgorl (Ciné) 9/30 Dr. Fred’s Karaoke (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 10/01 Mary & The Hot Hotty-​Hots (The Globe) f

Birth Control

MADE EASY

Visit an

Athens Area Health Department NortheastHealthDistrict.org

A Day of Mindfulness September 19th 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Griffin-Dubose Healing Lodge (behind Piedmont Hospital)

Leslie Rawls • Dharma Teacher • $25 Meditation • Music • Lunch • Dharma “Silence is essential. We need silence just as much as we need air, just as much as we need light. If our minds are crowded with words and thoughts, there is no space for us”

Scan QR Code or go to https://www.mindfulbreathsangha.org/

S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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music

feature

Go Public

YOU ARE TRAFFIC DEBUT ALBUM RELEASE

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

D

fun to complain about.” From the lyrics to the cover art and even the album title, there’s a playfulness in calling out really heavy truths of our reality. Gunn says that the rhythm of each song has a strong intent, and musically it’s hard to argue that rhythm sparks joy and movement regardless of the negative emotions that might be behind the lyrics. Finch aptly says that “dancing to your own doom is what most of the world is doing most of the time.” “Sometimes Adrian says the lyrics are too negative, but I feel catharsis from singing this extremely negative shit in the world we currently live in. I guess that’s the modern aspect of us—the lyrics. We can have a lighthearted view of it, though. Laughing about how bad everything is getting,” says Rawls.

wizard Jay Domingo played with Finch in the bands Night Moves Gold and Bronco II, but as of late plays bass in Dog Person, as part of the duo Gnome Forest and solo as Smoggo. Bassist Sam Gunn is also a member of the Atlanta band Book Club, but he previously played in Athens bands Iron Hero and Reading. Coming together for Go Public, the members had a very specific musical direction in mind that drove the formation of the band, an idea that Rawls describes as “post-­ punk with skronk sax and funk bass and annoying guitar.” It started with specific references to minimal wave, British post-­ punk and American new wave, and although there was a cohesive focus on an early ’80s sound, the members used this inspiration as a doorway rather than a direct throwback. “Sean and I were talking late one night about certain bands and realizing there was all this music we love that we’d never tried to take direct inspiration from in a band, and it steamrolled from there. It’s also the most objectively ‘loud’ or ‘weird’ band I’ve ever been in, and I enjoy that we’re doing the opposite of mellowing with age. It doesn’t feel like a time to be mellow,” says Gunn. As for what’s different about this project from those in the past, Finch says, “The frustrating Atlanta energy, the frustration of working and driving all the time, the frustration of everything becoming more frustrating. It is maddening and absurd and

“I never paid attention to the lyrics that closely since I barely heard them through the PA when we were playing live. It was only recently I read the lyrics to the songs when I was laying out the record sleeve design. The concept of dystopic traffic is an interesting counterpoint to the music. The noise, frustration and panic of the world reflect the urgency of what our adult lives have become. Instead of laying down and accepting our fates, may as well try to push through and have fun. Chaos moves the feet,” says Domingo. And Go Public will be fanning the flames of the dance floor at Dead Beat Club for its official album release show on Saturday, Sept. 19. The mixed genre bill of Pylon Reenactment Society, Hamaixia and Other Voices, Other Rooms pays homage to the classic Athens dance party vibe that’s managed to stay on its feet as the world around it changes. To get properly inspired, You Are Traffic will be available to stream on Friday, and vinyls are available online at hhbtm. bandcamp.com. f

MATT MILLER

arkly dancey band Go Public will release its debut full-­length album, You Are Traffic, on Sept. 18, courtesy of HHBTM Records. The label describes the Atlanta/Athens band as “mutant disco post-­ punk,” which is a mouthful that loosely translates into explosive, funky yet moody tunes with a flair of nostalgia. However, boiling down the band’s sound and influences is nearly as difficult as reducing the experience of its members. Vocalist and guitarist Sean Rawls is also a member of Natural Palace and was in the now-­ defunct bands Masters of the Hemisphere, Still Flyin’ and Je Suis France. Adrian Finch—who handles saxophone, guitar, vocals and a vintage digital delay pedal— played in Masters of the Hemisphere with Rawls, but also in Elf Power and Summer Hymns. Percussionist and electronic

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

WHO: Go Public, Pylon Reenactment Society, Hamaixia, Other Voices, Other Rooms WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 19, 8 p.m. WHERE: Dead Beat Club HOW MUCH: $10

threats & promises

arts & culture

feature

The Unbelieving Dog’s Debut Album

Finster Fest Art Festival

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

By Libba Beaucham arts@flagpole.com

PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

THUNDER AND LIGHTNING: After a few delays, the new album from Garett Hatch, Enervation Land, is now out. It opens with the fully instrumental title track, which is surprisingly inspiring and has more than a few recognizable touchstones. From there Hatch propagates his thoroughly engaging, groove-​heavy shoegaze (“Ghost Friends”), delivers an absolutely smashing Stones-​influenced fuzz feast (“Taxes”), a life-​as-​hangover hymn (“End Times”), and a psychic TV-​worthy post-​punk stomp (“Alive For It”). Hatch excels in bringing to life deeply thought-​out arrangements that contain very little, if any, fat. While they do contain some necessary bombast—this is a rock-​and-​roll record, after all—such moments bleed confidence. Particular details, such as the drums on “Face Card Blues,” feel crafted and quite deliberate as does the semi-​staccato piano of “Mule.” Dig it the most over at garetthatch.bandcamp. com. SONGS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS: Normaltown

Sound Machine releases its debut album, Temporal Strobes, this Saturday, Sept. 19.

The Unbelieving Dog

The 11-​song album is a crisp collection of tight pop informed by 1980s studio production and presentation. Not for nothing, but in a town full of guitar players you’re unlikely to quickly find one who can land a riff on a dime, every time, like Ben Spraker (The Arcs, Ceiling Fan). The record eases into itself with the matter-​of-​fact “Machu Picchu” and “L-​I-​V-​I-​N” before it drops into the super fat—and instantly recognizable to a certain generation—bass of “(You May Not Use) My Likeness,” which has nice vocal charms throughout. While the whole thing is a well-​brewed mug of sweet pop kisses, and a couple of punches, the highlight comes at the very end. Although it has a pronounced bass holding it down, “Assume I’m From The Future” is in many ways the song The B-​52s never wrote and pretty much just as good as any they ever did. Yeah, that’s quite a comparison, I agree, but listen without prejudice and judge for yourself. Feel free to deliver your verdict directly to the band that same night at

Nowhere Bar when they open for The Arcs. Find this on major streaming services once released, and for more information, please choose your own adventure via linktr.ee/ normaltownsoundmachine. TAKE SOME HOME: It’s been a long minute since any new music from Rag Bags was out, but it’s solved this issue with the newly released EP Secret Slang. The slippery guitar rhythm of opening track “Slip The Pin” is a tasty throwback of this two-​movement rocker. The Southern psych of “Two Planes & Wrong Lanes” is both tuneful and oddly comforting in its familiarity. Similarly, “Ode To Brennan” is a smooth soother as is the delicately delivered “Spell.” The super sweet spot on this is right in the middle with “Circle The Drain.” It’s a deeply felt, melodic embrace that builds to a furious crescendo. Find this on major streaming services as we speak. LAST DAYS: We are approaching the final days of Sonic Space at ATHICA. Coordinator Monty Greene (Nerveclinic) is winding it down, and the last occurrence will happen in December. This week, though, on Friday, Sept. 18 featured acts will be Shrimp Ring (composers Erin Demastes and Dylan Burchett), Athens’ own SweetEarthFlying (aka Emmie Pierce), San Francisco-​area artist Bryan Day, and Marcel Sletten (Chairs, Rishis, et al) performing an ambient DJ set. As a general rule these shows cost between $10–$12, so please plan for that. You won’t really get turned away for lacking funds, but if you’ve got ’em, bring ’em. Essential research can be practiced via erindemastes. com, dylanburchett.net, sweetearthflying. bandcamp.com and clamorworks.com. AIN’T THAT ENOUGH?: The self-​titled debut album by The Unbelieving Dog came out a couple of weeks ago and, hoo boy, this may wind up being one of the best-​ kept secrets in recent memory. This hits so many sweet spots that to mention any highlights is beside the point. From the first opening notes of “Always The Same,” which sweeps the listener straight into dreams of Badfinger, the record goes on to be a complete pleaser. The total Big Star-​isms of “All My Life” are recognizable, but not worn out. Personally, I hear Todd Rundgren in “Used To Be,” but some may hear something else, even if they can’t put their finger right on it. And that’s like a lot of this. The band is masterful at wrenching every bit of juice of the familiar and distilling it into a freshly produced soundway. Find this immediately at theunbelievingdog.bandcamp.com. f

CELEBRATING FOLK ART, MUSIC AND THE LEGACY OF HOWARD FINSTER

T

he Paradise Garden Foundation will of Mavis Stevens’ new children’s book Last hold its annual Finster Fest Art Festi- Chance Trailer Park. val Sept. 19–20 in Summerville with “Pepper Raper from Rock City is coming live music, art, speakers and family-­friendly to discuss the link between the two of us, activities in celebration of the late folk artist how we both got started as these roadside and preacher the Rev. Howard Finster. attractions and the Appalachian culture Finster produced over 47,000 pieces of of these places,” Weatherill said. “… Lala art in his lifetime, including album covers Abaddon is a fascinating artist because she for R.E.M. and Talking Heads, sculptures takes these photographs and weaves them using found objects, signage, paintings into these art tapestries… Black Cat Tips— and more. A frequent visitor to Athens, he Kyle Burks—is going to be giving a gallery often spoke with art students at UGA, was talk. He had a residency at Paradise Garden connected to the local music scene, and this year, and while he was in residence, he appeared in the 1985 documentary Athens, created a lot of the work being shown in the GA: Inside Out. exhibit.” Paradise Garden is overflowing with Finster’s creations, from painted Cadillacs and washing machines to an intricate mosaic garden. “Finster Fest is one of those experiences that’s hard to describe until you’re there,” said Davia Weatherill, executive director of the Paradise Garden Foundation. “You’re surrounded by amazing contemporary artists. You’ve got live music, 17 performances, and then there’s just discovering that this incredible piece of Georgia cultural history is all open to you.” Finster grew up in rural World's Folk Art Church by Howard Finster Alabama as one of 14 children, and began experiencing visions at an early age. He later became a Baptist Proceeds from ticket sales go toward the pastor, and explored art as a sacred means preservation and rehabilitation of Paradise of connection and communication. He was Garden, which faces unique challenges. “We skilled in carpentry and masonry, among fight nature every day. Everything you see other trades, and worked as a repairman at Paradise Garden, Howard Finster built outside of ministering. He moved to Trion himself… He was the original recycler and a with his wife and children in 1941, and by humble man. He didn’t go to art school, and the 1960s, Finster began constructing what he just used, as a child of the Depression, would become Paradise Garden. The concept used whatever he had available to him… began as a way to honor the inventions These are not your typical preservation of mankind, but when Finster ran out of challenges you come across. There’s not a space, the art garden was relocated to its handbook on how to take care of it, so we present-­day location in Summerville, drawtry our best to consult with a lot of people. ing in curious visitors and art collectors. And we always ask ourselves, ‘What would In 1976, Finster said that he received Howard do?’” said Weatherill. visions to paint sacred art. This took the Visitors during Finster Fest will have a form of wood pieces with painted texts of chance to view the main floor of the church, Biblical quotes, depictions of angels and which was rehabilitated and reopened in surreal celestial themes. By the 1980s, 2025 and contains Finster’s original studio, Finster had become a well-­known folk but Weatherill emphasized that there’s still artist and personality, with appearances on work to be done. “Finster Fest is our largest Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show,” on magfundraiser of the year… All of that money azine covers and in news articles. He was a goes right back into Paradise Garden for the working artist until his death in 2001, and preservation and conservation of the site many of his works are in collections like and for our programming.” the Smithsonian American Art Museum. General admission tickets are $10, and Paradise Garden is full of works by Finster children 12 and under are free. Limited throughout the 4-­acre campus comprising VIP tickets are $85 for a single day or multiple buildings, galleries, outdoor walk$170 for two-­day admission, and include ing paths and gardens. a private festival entrance, designated The festival will feature live perforparking, a shaded outdoor tent with seatmances including folk, country, bluegrass, ing, private restrooms and complimentary gospel, alt-­rock and ambient music, includrefreshments. A free shuttle and festival ing Athens-­related musicians Julia Barfield, parking is available at the Walmart on U.S. Ben Hackett, Tyler Key, T. Hardy Morris Highway 17. There are designated indoor and Jim White. There will also be artist cooling areas and restrooms on site for all talks and demonstrations by Lala Abaddon ticketholders, as well as water and food venand Black Cat Tips, a special program with dors. For more information, visit paradise​ Pepper Raper from Rock City and a reading garden​foundation.org. f

S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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MATTHEW HURLEY

music

Tuesday 15

event calendar

CLASSES: QPR Training Class (St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church) Learn more about suicide prevention and become QPR certified. Registration required. 10:30 a.m. www.nuci.org CLASSES: Jigglewatts Touring Burlesque Masterclass (Work. Shop) Learn the history of burlesque as well as beginner-​friendly dance moves, pastie making and tassel twirling. 6:30 p.m. $45. www.thejigglewattsburlesque.com/ athens-​masterclass COMEDY: Take This! Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) The troupe will perform improv skits based on the movie Brokeback Mountain. 7:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing. com 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 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: A Disability Voting Rights Week Forum (ACC Library) Speakers will discuss why voting matters and disability rights with the opportunity to register and receive other resources. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss Final Girls by Riley Sager 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 16 ART: Faculty Perspectives (Georgia Museum of Art) Mario Erasmo will give a gallery talk on the exhibition “Edmonia Lewis: Said in Stone.” 2

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p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum. org CLASSES: Archery Basics (Bogart Library) Learn about archery through the ages and in literature, and then practice with kid-​safe arrows. All ages. 4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart CLASSES: Researching Athens Newspapers (ACC Library) Join Heritage Room librarian Justin Kau for a review of newspaper sources available to Athens Regional Library System researchers. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org EVENTS: Flavors of Fall Cocktail Competition (Oak House Distillery) Try four new fall cocktails and vote for your favorite that will make the fall menu. Sept. 16 & 23, 4–10 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery.com EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net FILM: Pachinko Pop Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 2025 slacker comedy film Nemurubaka: Hypnotic Jerks. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand​ bar.com GAMES: Miss Thing’s Drag Bingo (40 Watt Club) Play bingo hosted by some of Athens’ most fabulous performers to win prizes. Ages 18 & up. 5 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (bingo). www.boybutante.org GAMES: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.indigoathens.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: Magic The Gathering and Pokemon Meet-​Up (Athentic Brewing Co.) Drop in to spend an evening playing games or matches. Third Wednesdays, 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Ian. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/ classiccitytriviaco GAMES: Love.Craft Bingo Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) A bingo event benefiting the nonprofit organization Love.Craft Athens. Third Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m. $3–5. www.lovecraftathens.org GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/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 Street) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens GAMES: Dungeons and Dragons and Drinks (Athentic Brewing Co.) Meetup for beginners and seasoned players to learn basics or play one-​ shot games. Third Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednes-

F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

days, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia KIDSTUFF: Homeschool Day Open House (Historic Athens Welcome Center) Tour the oldest surviving house in Athens, learn about everyday life in the early 1800s and participate with hands-​on learning stations. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athens​ welcomecenter.com LECTURES & LIT: Talking About Books (ACC Library) Discuss The Splendid and the Vile: a Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson with the group. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org LECTURES & LIT: Third Wednesday Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/oconee

Thursday 17 ART: Open Studio (160 Winston Dr., Suite #8) Artist Christina Habibi’s work will be on view. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.habibiart.com ART: Opening Reception (tiny ATH gallery) “Voluptuous Panic” by Rae Haight features abstract stained glass and found object pieces placed together. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.tinyathgallery.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: September Gathering (University Church) Celebrate the season change with pumpkin-​ themed food, drinks, face and hair masks, and crafts. Optional potluck. 6:30 p.m. FREE! athensclarkega@ nlhg.org 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 GAMES: Mahjong Night Out (Creature Comforts Brewery) Come solo or reserve a table for four with a basic knowledge of American mahjong, and enjoy raffles, giveaways and a food truck. 6–9 p.m. $20. www.classiccitymahj.com/open-​ play-​events 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: 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 levels. Grades 6–12. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Book Launch (ACC Library) UGA School of Law Professor Lori Ringhand will discuss her book release We the Voters: The Constitutional Choices That Shape America’s Elections. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Signing (The Globe) Author Scott Howard will discuss his local true crime novel Murder of One and sign copies. 6–8 p.m. www. globetavern.com MEETINGS: Pencil Pushers Drink & Draw (Hendershot’s) Hang out and draw on the paper-​covered tables or bring your own sketchbook. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.hendershots​athens.com MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Thursdays, 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org

Friday 18 EVENTS: Spirits Tasting (Tonique Bottle Co.) Drop in to sample gin, vodka, whiskey and more from Longleaf Distilling Co. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.shoptonique.com EVENTS: The Mystic Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Shop various wares from local vendors and enjoy a crafting station plus live music. 6–10 p.m. www.instagram. com/the.mystic.bee GAMES: Euchre Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Join others to play Euchre. Fridays, 2–4:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Oak House Distillery) Test your general trivia knowledge. Fridays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia KIDSTUFF: Baby Picasso (Bogart Library) An art session for the littles with all materials provided. Registration required. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk & Book Launch (Atheneum) Authors Kristen Gleason and Reginald McKnight will read from the new work The Wallet and Other Thefts. 6–​​8 p.m. FREE! athenaeum.uga.edu 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 THEATER: Wrong Window! (The Elbert Theatre) Encore Productions presents a comedic spoof of Alfred Hitchcock’s acclaimed Rear Window. Sept. 18–19 & 25–26, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 & 27, 2 p.m. $9–17. www. elberttheatre.org

Saturday 19

ART: Family Day: Homegrown (Georgia Museum of Art) Play gallery games, enjoy interactive storytime and create your own take-​ home project. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org CLASSES: Adopt-​A-​Stream Workshop (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Learn more about how to adopt a stream, the qualities of clean water and how to utilize chemical and bacterial monitoring. Registration required. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com CLASSES: Become a Justice Advocate (Oconee Street United Methodist Church) Learn how to help people understand their rights, navigate justice systems, document violations and advocate for accountability. Registration required. 10:30 a.m. www.aadmovement.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.marigoldcollective​winterville.com EVENTS: Classics in the Country Car Show (Oconee County Veterans Park) A family-​friendly event showcasing classic and modern cars plus music, raffles and more. Benefitting projects for the Rotary Club of Oconee County. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. FREE! www.oconee​ countyrotary.org EVENTS: Day of Mindfulness (Griffin-​Dubose Healing Lodge) Inspired by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, events include meditation, live music, mindful eating, a dharma talk and more. Registration required. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. $25 (suggested donation). www. mindfulbreathsangha.org/day-​of-​ mindfulness EVENTS: Journey through the Stars (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: Dogs for Democracy (Madison Town Park) There will be wide screen TVs for the UGA football game, a kids zone, food trucks and a meet and greet with candidates for offices across Georgia’s 10th Congressional District. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. FREE! fiberart1050@ yahoo.com EVENTS: Fall Adoption Event (ACC Animal Services) Meet and greet with adoptable animals plus refreshments and doggie treats. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.instagram.com/ athenspets

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: LatinFest (Downtown Athens) A celebration of culture and community featuring traditional foods, live music, performances, vendors, resources and more. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. FREE! www.facebook. com/LatinFestAth EVENTS: Athtoberfest (Terrapin Beer Co.) Celebrate Oktoberfest with a car show from 12–3 p.m. then live music and games from 2–5 p.m. FREE! www.terrapinbeer. com EVENTS: Batman Day (College Comix) There will be giveaways and exclusive Batman Day comics available. 12–5 p.m. www.college​ comix.com EVENTS: Living Legacy Indoor Market (Georgia Square Mall) Browse local vendors offering health and beauty items, crafts, local art and more. Benefitting Living Legacy Outreach Foundation Inc. 1–5 p.m. www.georgiasquare​ mall.com EVENTS: Chelsyfest (Athentic Brewing Co.) An annual fundraiser for epilepsy education and awareness that features live music, vendors, food trucks and more. 2–8 p.m. www.chelsyfest.org EVENTS: Bouldering Baristas (APEX) Watch baristas compete for various prizes, and enjoy refreshments, swag bags and more. RSVP required. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www. apexclimbingandspa.com EVENTS: AFMDS Contra Dance (Memorial Park Administration Building) This community dance features caller Deanna Palumbo and live music by RPPM. No partner required. 6:30 p.m. (intro session), 7–10 p.m. (dance). $12 (adults), $10 (students w/ ID), 17 & under FREE! www.athensfolk.org EVENTS: Groovy Nights (VFW Post 2872) Dust off the disco ball, grab a dancing partner and enjoy tunes from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s as well as an epic lip sync battle. Proceeds benefit Project Safe. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $35–50. www.project-​safe.org LECTURES & LIT: Fall Flyway Festival (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Choose between an expert-​led native plant walk or a live bird banding demonstration, hear from keynote speaker David George Haskell and meet fellow enthusiasts. Registration required. 8 a.m.–4 p.m. $40–100. www.birds​ georgia.org LECTURES & LIT: Monarchs & Beyond (State Botanical Garden of Georgia) Learn all about the monarch butterfly and how to become a pollinator steward. Registration required. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. $65. bot​ garden.uga.edu LECTURES & LIT: Author Reading and Potluck (Bogart Library) Meet writers, enjoy a potluck snack and then enjoy readings in a forest setting. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Author Talk (ACC Library) Author A.J. Symon and his service dog Bubba will have a meet and greet with a reading, Q&A and singing of his book Golden Boy. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

Sunday 20 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 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: Diaper Up! Cram the Van Celebration (Athentic Brewing Co.) Celebrate the start of National Diaper Need Awareness Week with light refreshments, music, crafts, community resource information and more. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www. athensareadiaperbank.com FILM: Tokusatsu Club (ACC Library) Screening of the 1965 Japanese monster movie Frankenstein vs. Baragon. 3 p.m. FREE! clubtoku@ gmail. GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 4 p.m. & 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens KIDSTUFF: Sit Happens Kids Club (Pet Supplies Plus) Learn how to foster better relationships with dogs through games, activities and play with stuffed dogs. Registration required. 2 p.m. FREE! calendly. com/sithappens/kids-​club OUTDOORS: Tails on Trails (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Bring your pup for a hike around the loop trail. 3 p.m. $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. info@athenspetanque.org, www.athenspetanque.org THEATER: Wrong Window! (The Elbert Theatre) Encore Productions presents a comedic spoof of Alfred Hitchcock’s acclaimed Rear Window. Sept. 18–19 & 25–26, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 & 27, 2 p.m. $9–17. www. elberttheatre.org

Monday 21 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) An FBI agent teams up with her reporter sister and uses kung-​fu to thwart an evil banker in Honor and Glory. 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: Magic the Gathering (The Rook and Pawn) Meet up to play in Commander format. Every other Monday, 6 p.m. FREE! www. therookandpawn.com 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: International Day of Peace Virtual Coffee Hour (Online: Zoom) Grab your morning beverage and join for a sharing of peace songs, poetry, stories and more. Register for Zoom link. 8 a.m. FREE! us02web.zoom.us/ meeting/register

Tuesday 22 ART: Creative Aging Art Workshop (Georgia Museum of Art) Join teaching artist Toni Carlucci to discuss art in the galleries and to make art in the studio classroom. All skill levels welcome. Ages 55 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-​tours@uga.edu CLASSES: Google Photos (ACC Library) Learn how to find your photos, make simple edits, and share them with friends and family. 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.athentic​ brewing.com GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (The Globe) Drop in to play and win prizes. 6:30–8:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens 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 LECTURES & LIT: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss Shutter Islantd by Dennis Lehane with the group. 5:30​​p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart PERFORMANCE: Rabbit Box Storytelling (VFW Post 2872) This month’s storytelling theme is “Growing Older” with local people sharing real life stories. 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $10. www. rabbitbox.org 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 23 EVENTS: Scam Jam 2026 (Athens Community Council on Aging) Learn about the latest scams targeting older adults, how to recognize signs of fraudulent activity, and steps to safeguard personal information and finances. 9 a.m.–3:15 p.m. $15. www.accaging.org EVENTS: Flavors of Fall Cocktail Competition (Oak House Distillery) Try four new fall cocktails and vote for your favorite that will make the fall menu. Sept. 16 & 23, 4–10 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery.com EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1986 dramatic comedy film A Traffic Controller on Crossroads. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar. com FILM: Survivor Watch Party (Athentic Brewing Co.) Chaotic Good Podcast hosts a weekly watch party for season 51. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.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: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.indigo​ athens.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Normal Bar) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Wednesdays, 7:06 p.m. www.instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Cafe Racer Oak Street) 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 f

arts & culture

calendar picks

MUSIC | FRI, SEPT. 18

Sonic Space

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

Sonic Space is a recurring showcase of experimental music that local musician Monty Greene started over three years ago. The series took the summer off but is returning this fall with an installment featuring both local and traveling artists. The first act is Shrimp Ring, which is a duo formed by sound artists Erin Demastes and Dylan Burchett. The two are known for experimenting with the sounds of everyday objects and actions in their work. The second performer from out of town will be California-​based sound artist Bryan Day, who has built over 100 sound devices since the late ’90s using scavenged electronics, repurposed mechaniLatinFest cal components and amplified materials. Third in the lineup is Athens musician Emmie Pierce’s project sweetearthflying, which uses found objects, guitars and modular synthesizers to create improvisational sonic environments. Local musician, producer and Primordial Void label head Marcel Sletten will be doing ambient DJ sets between each act. Greene says that he plans to wind down Sonic Space as it approaches its four-​year anniversary, with the last show planned for December, so be sure to catch it before it’s gone. [MB] MUSIC | FRI, SEPT. 18

Vicious Devil Album Release Show Nowhere Bar • 9:30 p.m. • $10

Local trio Vicious Devil released its self-​titled debut record, composed of 10 rock-​and-​roll tracks, on Aug. 25. The band is made of up of veteran musicians, including guitarist and vocalist Curtiss Pernice (Porn Orchard, Vic Chesnutt), drummer Ballard Lesemann (Roosevelt, The Germans, Vic Chesnutt, The Rock*A*Teens, The Shut-​ Ups) and bassist and backing vocalist Larry Tenner (Magneto, The Germans, The Lures). Vicious Devil is a record full of darkly alluring melodies like the ones found in “Space Food” and “When The Colors Go,” but it’s equally capable of leaning into slightly more anthemic territory on tracks such as “The Open Window” and “The Stain.” CD copies of Vicious Devil will be available for purchase at the show and are on sale at local record stores. Local band EATing will open this record release show. [Mary Beth Bryan] EVENT | SAT, SEPT. 19

LatinFest

Downtown Athens • 11 a.m.–8 p.m. • FREE!

Returning for its 17th year, LatinFest will transform the area of Washington Street between Pulaski and Lumpkin streets into a celebration of the richness, joy and diversity of Latin culture. The event is held by Dignidad Inmigrante en Athens, a community-​based organization founded to create and promote spaces for the liberation of undocumented local families through culture and activism. In addition to Latin­

Fest, the organization works toward its mission through mutual aid, mental health initiatives, art programs and much more. The festival will feature a selection of traditional foods from different Latin American countries, live music and dancing. There will also be handcrafted goods available for purchase and a variety of activities for the whole family. [MB] CJ BARTUNEK

MEETINGS: Athens Puzzle Club (Hendershot’s) Puzzle lovers are invited to bring along their favorite puzzles to share. 2–4 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/athenspuzzle​ club MEETINGS: Atheist Society of Athens (ACC Library) A reality-​based, non-​prophet organization. 4 p.m. FREE! www.atheistsocietyathens.org OUTDOORS: Bird Walk (Whitehall Forest) Join the Oconee Rivers Audubon Society for a guided bird walk. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www. oconeeriversaudubon.org/ upcoming-​event OUTDOORS: BioBlitz (Beech Haven Shoals) Explore the 24-​acre site and record plants, animals, insects and fungi with the group. Registration required. 9 a.m. www.accgov. givepulse.com OUTDOORS: Fungi Hike (Watson Mill Bridge State Park) Learn about local fungi on a guided walk. 1 p.m. $5/person, $10 parking pass/ vehicle. www.gastateparks.org/ WatsonMillBridge THEATER: Wrong Window! (The Elbert Theatre) Encore Productions presents a comedic spoof of Alfred Hitchcock’s acclaimed Rear Window. Sept. 18–19 & 25–26, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 & 27, 2 p.m. $9–17. www. elberttheatre.org

MUSIC | SAT, SEPT. 19

Normaltown Sound Machine Album Release Show Nowhere Bar • 9:30 p.m. • $10

Local band Normaltown Sound Machine’s upcoming record, Temporal Strobes, has some heavy themes, including the ills of technology, yet the simultaneous hopefulness for its capabilities. Despite this, the band keeps things pretty lighthearted. Guitarist and vocalist Ben Spraker says, “Many of the song concepts came from us hanging out on the Middle Oconee River near the studio, joking around with, ‘let’s have a song about THAT.’” The album was recorded by the band’s bassist, Eli Truett, and mastered by Jason NeSmith to be “nice and loud on your car stereo.” Spraker will be on double duty for this album release show, which will also feature his other band, The Arcs. As a primary songwriter for both bands, he says, “My songs are organized like this: The Arcs are where my ‘loud guitar haranguing rock songs that I sing’ go, and NSM is where my ‘angular synth-​pop songs where Jamie is the singer’ go.” [MB] EVENT | TUE, SEPT. 22

Rabbit Box Storytelling

VFW Post 2872 • 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show) • $10

Rabbit Box is a live storytelling series created to showcase the diversity of the people who live in Athens and bring people closer to a common understanding of one another. It was started in 2012 by local activist Marci White, who was inspired by other storytelling series like The Moth. Its name comes from a song of the same title from late Athens musician Vic Chesnutt’s first album, and the event serves as a tribute to his originality and character. Attendees are invited to sign up to share a story in eight minutes or less or to just listen as a collective story emerges. Both amateurs and experienced performers are encouraged to participate, and stories can range from funny to heartwarming to sad to inspiring. Rabbit Box occurs on the fourth Tuesday of almost every month, and this month’s theme is “Growing Older.” [MB] f

S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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bulletin board & classifieds BULLETIN BOARD: Listings from nonprofits, community resources and free opportunities. Print deadline is THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email calendar@flagpole.com. CLASSIFIEDS: Rates are $10/individual * $14/real estate * $16/business. Deadline to place ads is FRIDAY at 10 a.m. for the following Wednesday issue. Email class@flagpole.com or call 706-549-0301.

Classifieds HELP WANTED (Full-​time) Athens digital marketing agency seeks articulate, energetic, professional Private Equity Sales Associates. More info at: lightmarkmedia. com/job HELP WANTED (Part-​Time) Part-​Time Tour Guide wanted at Historic Athens Welcome Center. $16.75–$18/hour plus tips. Weekend and Tuesday morning availability required. Apply: athenswelcomecenter.com/jobs HELP WANTED (Part-​time) Daily Groceries Co-​Op is now accepting applications for cashiers, deli, stockers, shift leader. Applications available in store from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. 1190 Prince Ave. 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 NOTICES (Missed Connections) Went to CFA Alps Rd. 1/14/26 gave you all pies. 1/21/26 pastries. 1/28/26 macaroons. Gave Pollyana macaroons that afternoon. What went wrong. REAL ESTATE (House for Rent) 2BD/2BA house for rent during home game weekends. Located in Watkinsville. $500. 2 night minimum. Call 706-​286-​0138 for more information.

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 (OCAF, Watkinsville) Now accepting submissions for the annual Members Exhibition. Open to current, valid members. Deadline Nov. 1. Exhibition Dec. 4–18. www. ocaf.com/exhibitions for rules, regulations and other information. CALL FOR ARTISTS (Ciné) ATHICA seeking visual artists to submit

proposals for exhibitions in the ATHICA at Ciné gallery space for the 2027-​28 exhibition season. Single, duo or group exhibits, and 2D art. Deadline Nov. 1. $10 entry fee. www.athica.org CALL FOR ARTISTS (Oconee County Bat Festival, Watkinsville) Seeking artists for festival. Handcrafted items and art with natural themes, earth-​inspired elements or representations of the environment, wildlife, and botanical subjects preferred. Event held Oct. 12. Contact Carsen Dean, Oconee County ANR agent at crd72388@uga.edu or 706-​542-​7078. CALL FOR MURALISTS (ACCGov) ACCGov invites professional artists to submit qualifications for interior mural for new Eastside Athens Library. Deadline Sept. 18. www. accgov.com/11628/Call-​for-​Public-​ Art-​Eastside-​Athens-​Libr CALL FOR PERFORMERS (Jam in the Streets) Local bands, independent artists and DJs in the Athens or greater Atlanta area and surrounding cities are encouraged to apply. Jam For Cam is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Deadline Oct. 31. www.instagram.com/ jamforcam CALL FOR PERFORMERS (Porchfest) Seeking musicians and performers for the 2026 Historic Athens Porchfest. One hour slot pairing in one of the following

ADOPT ME!

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

Yennefer (61535124)

Yennefer is a gorgeous one-yearold girl who enjoys spending time with friends and being loved on. She can be a little shy at first, but a few pets and kind words help to ease her worries.

Raleigh (61573861)

Meet Raleigh! This sweetie is two years old and has the softest creamsicle coat. She’s looking for a new friend and a place to call home, so please consider adopting or fostering her today.

Moon River (61619581)

Moon River’s buddies at the shelter say he’s a fun, smart and friendly guy. His favorite toy is his stuffed football, and he plays a mean game of catch. He also knows how to sit and shake!

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

16

F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

areas: Boulevard, Buena Vista Heights, Cobbham, Newtown, Normaltown, Pulaski Heights and Reese-​Hancock. Also seeking sponsors, hosts and volunteers. Event held Oct. 18. bit.ly/porch​ perform26 CALL FOR PHOTOS (Athens, GA) Submit water or nature-​themed photos taken in Athens-​Clarke County to be considered in the Stormwater Management Program’s annual calendar. www.instagram. com/accstormwater CALL FOR STORYTELLERS (Rabbit Box) Rabbit Box seeks story ideas for upcoming shows. www.rabbit​ box.org/tell CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS (Athens Homeless Coalition) Seeking submissions for street newspaper. Poetry, short stories, visual art, song lyrics. enagementcoordinator​ @athenshc.org COMMUNITY TOURS (Georgia Museum of Art) A variety of tours open to the public including “Student Perspectives” which runs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays throughout the month. www.georgia​ museum.org LIFE DRAWING (Winterville Cultural Center, Winterville) 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. 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 BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTRY (Town & Gown) Open auditions for the musical adaptation of the popular romance book and movie of the same name. Oct. 4–5. Performances held Dec. 4–13. www. townandgownplayers.org MERIDIAN WOMEN’S CHORUS OPEN CALL (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) New members invited to join the fall rehearsal season. Schedule vocal assessment to determine voice part. No audition necessary. www.meridianwomens​ chorus.org OPEN AUDITIONS (Georgia Children’s Choir) GCC serves singers in grades 2–12. Auditions for placement across five ensembles currently available for all skill levels. www.georgiachildrenschorus. org/about/audition OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Master Chorale) Seeking new members in all voice parts including high sopranos, tenors and basses. Scheduled auditions held at St. Gregory the Great Church. athmcdirector@ gmail.com OPEN AUDITIONS (Athens Symphony) The Athens Symphony is holding auditions for qualified musicians. www.athenssymphony. org/openings

Classes A COURSE IN MIRACLES (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 (ACCA) Various weekly and monthly events including Center for Active Living Happy Hour (various locations, every first Thursday), Normaltown Poker with Pals (Mondays), Mat Pilates (Mondays) and more. Registration may be required. www. accaging.org CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Athens Land Trust) Various virtual and in-​person classes with topics that include Affordable Housing Info and Homebuyer Education Course. www. athenslandtrust.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 (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 (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 & Sundays), 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 MUSIC & MOVEMENT (The Studio Athens) TIMBAthens offers Cuban-​style salsa classes on Sundays. 3 p.m. for Level 1 Foundations and 4 p.m. for Level 2 & 3 Partner Work and Rueda de Casino. Through Dec. 13 with exception of Oct. 18. Drop-​in $10 for first four classes only. Class passes available. www.timbathens.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

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 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE NEEDED (ACCGov) The Landscape Management Division is seeking a privately-​owned cedar tree for donation as a public Christmas tree display in front of City Hall. Deadline Nov. 27. Interested donors call 706-​613-​3561. 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. accgov.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.com FIRE PIT RAFFLE (Friends of the Madison County Library) Madison County Library hosts a raffle for an outdoor gas fire pit to benefit various programs. $1 per ticket, unlimited entries. The winning ticket will be drawn in November after the Madison County Harvest Festival. www.athenslibrary.org/madison HALLOWEEN COSTUME DROP-​ OFF (Bogart Library, Bogart) Accepting gently used costumes and accessories for all ages and sizes. Donors will receive tokens to redeem for new costumes. Donations open Sept. 1 through Oct. 1. www.athenslibrary.org/bogart 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 NOMINATIONS FOR PLACES IN PERIL (Historic Athens) Eligible sites must be 50 years or older, look largely as they did originally,

face a current threat to their existence or integrity and have active grassroots support for preserving the structure. Nominees may include historic homes, buildings, structures, cultural landscapes and cemeteries. Submissions close Sept. 30. bit.ly/athensplaces. 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 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 TREE DONATION (Athens, GA) The ACCGov Landscape Management Division is currently seeking a privately-​owned tree for donation to the Athens-​Clarke County community as a public Christmas tree display during December. SEEKING VARIOUS VOLUNTEERS (AthHalf 5K & Half Marathon) AthFest Educates volunteer signup now open. 2026 half marathon and 5K events held Oct. 10 &11. Available roles include runner check-​in, course monitoring, expo registration and post-​race hospitality. athhalf​ volunteers@athfesteducates.org SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Various Locations) Visit www.flagpole. com/bulletinboard for ongoing opportunities with nonprofits and community organizations. 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 (Athens, GA) Various ongoing weekly and monthly events including Little Makers, Jumping Gym, Babies and Beasties, 123 Toddler & Me!, Fantastic Friday, Inventors Club, Tiny Trek, 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

Word on the Street CALL FOR VENDORS (Athens Farmer’s Market) Applications now open for Holiday Artist Market. Seeking artists, farmers and prepared food

vendors. $20 application fee. Deadline Oct. 9, acceptance notification Oct. 16, and event held Nov. 28. www.athensfarmersmarket.net/ holidayartistmarket 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 CALL FOR VENDORS (Marigold Collective, Winterville) Applications now open for Winterville Wonderland Christmas Market. Crafts, food, music and more. $50 registration fee required. Acceptance announced Oct. 1, and event held Dec. 12. www.marigold​ collectivewinterville.com/connect/ vend-​with-​us CALL FOR VENDORS (OCAF, Watkinsville) Applications now open for the OCAF Annual Holiday Market. Artists and makers are encouraged to apply. The deadline for submission is Oct. 15 and the juried event is held Nov. 20–22. www.ocaf.com/ holiday-​market 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 (Athens, GA) Indivisible GA District 10 has an “Every Monday” weekly protest on the corner of the corner of Alps and Baxter. 12:30–1:30 p.m. www. indivisiblega10.org SEEKING POLL WORKERS (ACCGov) The Elections Department is seeking residents to serve as poll workers. Advanced voting Oct. 13–30 and Nov. 3 general election. $15.60 per hour. www. accgov.com/10102/Poll-​Worker-​ Information SEEKING SEASONAL EMPLOYEES (Athens, GA) AthFest now hiring for two part-​time, seasonal positions: Event Coordinator and Musical Talent Booking Agent. Deadline Oct. 15, but applications are subject to closing sooner. More info and submission details at www.athfest.com/ job-​opportunities SEVENTH GENERATION (No. 3 Railroad Street, Arnoldsville) Seventh Generation Native American Church hosts various gatherings on Sundays, 11 a.m. 706-​340-​7134 SUNDAY CELEBRATION & DRUM CIRCLE (Unity Athens Spiritual Center) Sunday Celebration every Sunday 12:30 p.m. Monthly drum circle before service every 3rd Sunday. VHS DIGITIZATION (Athens, GA) Seeking previously recorded concerts and events on VHS, VHSC, Hi8, MiniDV and DVDs to digitize and archive. www.vhsordie.com VOTER REGISTRATION RESOURCES (ACC Library Atrium) Economic Justice Coalition community volunteers assist Georgia residents with registration, confirm prior registration and update voter registration information as needed. www.economicjusticecoalition.org

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

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706-549-9523 • class@flagpole.com S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

17

music

feature

Jim E. Brown

MANCUNIAN SONGWRITER SPIRALS INTO THE ‘AMERICAN DREAM’

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com im E. Brown was born in Manchester, England on Sept. 10, 2001, just one day before 9/11. He is an alcoholic and has several degenerative conditions,” according to his bio. Despite the passage of time, our unlikeable hero remains 19 years old—or at least this is the lore behind the alter ego of a musician from Philadelphia. His autobiographical book series, Brown on Brown, provides more stories and context for this figure whose life is filled with booze, stodge and pain. On the recently released album, Dawn of a New Man, Brown documents the single day he attempted sobriety before woefully relapsing. Regardless of the truth, the legend of Brown has amassed a dedicated following committed to the bit. Flagpole talked with Brown a few days before his current tour started in the U.S., on which Athens is a stop. Brown will perform at The World Famous on Sunday, Sept. 20. To get caught up, visit jimebrown.bandcamp.com.

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026

Flagpole: So you’re about to start your “American Dream” tour, and these days I’m curious as to what you think the American dream is? Jim E. Brown: Oh I’ve no conception of it. What is it? FP: The American dream? JB: I just don’t know what it means, really. It’s just like dreams are dark and disturbing glimpses into the unconscious mind, alarming and scary. But all of life is like that, so I guess it will be a bit of a dream in America. FP: You’re in America right now spending some time in Philadelphia, and that’s where your tour is kicking off, right? JB: Yes. Well, the tour begins in two days. I’m just sating my alcoholic desires with some beer, some stodge. It’s grand, really, and then doing the shows. FP: You’ve got some days leading up to that, and then you’ve got three shows in Philadelphia. Do you have any favorite places to visit in the town? JB: No, not really. It seems like a bit of a shithole. FP: Got it. Well, I’ve read that your favorite band is Phish because they’re boring. So I was wondering what makes music sufficiently boring? JB: Well, I don’t know. It’s a difficult question to answer. I think it’s intangible what’s boring and what’s not boring, and it’s just very clear that Phish is very boring. More so than any other music I’ve heard. FP: Would you say what you create is boring?

JB: For me, it is absolutely. It’s just a fat person singing about being fat and drinking, which is boring to me because it’s just me life, really. And I find life intolerably boring and cruel, and just to reflect on the things that happen in life, it’s deeply uninteresting and deeply boring. But perhaps in a lesser profound way than Phish is. FP: And talking about reflecting on your life, you have a series, your Brown on Brown book series. What kinds of things can people learn about you from that series? JULIEN GESTER

J

“

JB: Just about me childhood, about me adult life. You know, I’ve just wrote Brown on Brown Volume Four, which details my relationship with Sally and Helen and her mother, who was also called Helen, her father Ronald... Doctor Gunter, who is also featured prominently in Brown on Brown Volume Three, he is the man, a German bloke who administered leg lengthening surgery to me at age 5 in Heidelberg, Germany, so that I could meet the height requirement to ride the Avalanche Bobsleigh at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It’s just reflections on me life, you know, scenarios, things like that. FP: Do you see more volumes coming out in the future? JB: If I continue to live longer, which is not a guarantee, then yeah. FP: At your Athens show in a few weeks, can fans expect mostly newer music or a little bit of everything? JB: I think they can expect a little bit of everything, but I’m not sure what I’ll play there. I mean, will anyone even be at the gig, or should they cancel it? FP: Well, I’m pretty sure what I’ve heard is that it’s nearly sold out, if not sold out already. JB: Well then, I guess I’ll have to play. I’ll play a little bit of everything from the discography. FP: On a personal note, as a self-​proclaimed alcoholic and being obese, what’s your favorite alcohol/meal pairing? JB: Well, it’s not very clever or interesting, but you know, just like fish and chips, mushy peas, bit of curry sauce, Guinness. Can’t really argue with that. FP: And if someone at the show wants to buy you a drink, is there a preferred drink they should buy you that night? JB: Vodka Red Bull is my favorite. f

SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Medium

7

PRONOUNCED I CAN HELP

1

3 4 5 2 4

5 4 7 3 8 9

LET PEIKEN HELP!

6 7 2

Selling In-Town Athens for Over 25 Years UGA Graduate / 706-296-2941 Voted one of Athens Favorite Realtors by Flagpole’s readers! 2014-2016, 2018

9 1 3 8

5 3

Daniel Peiken dpeiken@hotmail.com • 5Market Realty 824 South Milledge Ave., Ste 200 • 706.850.4636

8

2 Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

HOW TO SOLVE:

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of by 3 boxes must contain Week of 39/14/26 - 9/20/26 the numbers 1 to 9.

The Weekly Crossword 1

2

3

4

5

6

14

15

17

18

20 23

7

8

4100 Lexington Road

ShopStarship.com

by Margie E. Burke 9

10

11

12

13

30

31

32

51

52

16 19 22

21

Solution to Sudoku: 24 25 26

2 6 273 8 9 287 5 1 29 4 5 344 7 1 3 2 9 8 35 6 33 1 9 8 6 4 385 2 3 7 37 39 7 1 6 3 425 8 4 9 2 41 3 5 9 467 2 4 1 6 8 45 8 2 4 489 1 6 3 7 5 49 8 5 4 6 3 7 2 1 9 56 53 54 55 4 7 1 2 8 9 6 5 3 58 59 60 6 3 2 5 7 631 8 4 9 62

36 40 43 47 50 57

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ACROSS 1 Doorframe part 5 ___ Gras 10 Corn keeper 14 Orchestral reed 15 Hunter in the night sky 16 Legendary Horne 17 Weeps 18 Pioneer places 20 Masthead names 22 Woodstock wear 23 Serious offender 24 Izzard and Albert 27 Washstand vessel 29 Community program 33 Go over again 35 Heavy burden 36 Winter bug 37 Military no-show 38 Wading bird 40 Barrel of laughs 41 Toast topper 42 Bit of physics 43 Votes into office 45 Speech opener, often 47 Painter of melting watches 48 Iroquoian people 50 Weeper of myth

44

61 64 67

Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

53 Mogadishu resident 56 Skeeter's given name in "The Help" 58 Vests, to Brits 61 Delivery vehicles 62 "Excuse me..." 63 Actress MacDowell 64 Advantage 65 Arsenal array 66 Tends (toward) 67 Crude wooden cross DOWN 1 IndyCar racer Newgarden 2 Domicile 3 Dwelling in a park, often 4 Award 5 Former SNL actor Jay 6 Came up 7 Tire support 8 Mother rabbit 9 Established 10 Monty Python member 11 "___ 'em and weep!"

12 Noted 500 13 Barracks locale 19 Levels 21 Certain column 25 Uniformed greeters 26 Sandy hill 28 Like some questions 30 Enthusiast 31 Coagulate 32 Crude homes 33 Prince of India 34 McGregor of "A Gentleman in Moscow" 39 Usual choice, informally 40 Late-game pitcher 42 Full-price payer 44 Singer k.d. 46 Deep divides 49 Place 51 "That's it!" 52 Relaxed 53 Goodie bag contents 54 Waikiki's island 55 Manner 57 Exploits 59 Washington's bill 60 Dentists' org.

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S E P T E MB E R 16, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

19

MUSIC

2026

26 | 27

Monday, October 20

FEATURED PERFORMANCES

WIND ENSEMBLE

PAUL HINDEMITH

SEPTEMBER 19 2–8 PM

FEATURING

Live music, vendor market & our special-release brew

MAGGIE SNYDER

The Swan Turner

viola

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 at 7:30 p.m. $15 - Adults $3 UGA students Hodgson Concert Hall plus $3 transaction fee

BENEFITING

with

music.uga.edu 706-542-4400

This concerto for viola is sometimes referred to as the Concerto from Old Folk Songs. The piece follows a wandering medieval minstrel performing and embellishing these folk tunes.

PIANO EXTRAVAGANZA with Five Pianos

SPONSORS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 at 7:30 p.m. $20 - Adults $3 UGA students Hodgson Concert Hall plus $3 transaction fee

music.uga.edu 706-542-4400

Hear pianistic fireworks featuring our piano area faculty and students. With five pianos on stage as well as multiple performers sharing the same piano, you are in for a treat!

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

AARON COPLAND

Lincoln Portrait

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 at 7:30 p.m. $15 - Adults $3 UGA students Hodgson Concert Hall plus $3 transaction fee

music.uga.edu 706-542-4400 Monday, October 20

Celebrating America250, this evening includes Copland’s Lincoln Portrait, which is based on the always timely words of Abraham Lincoln and features Mark Mobley as narrator.

FREE PERFORMANCES FACULTY RECITAL

GEORGIA WIND QUINTET MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 at 7:30 p.m. Ramsey Concert Hall Works by Claude Arrieu, Ferenc Farkas, Paul Hindemith, and Theodor Blumer.

THREE ENSEMBLES PERFORM FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

REPERTORY SINGERS

3:30 p.m. in Ramsey Concert Hall

WIND SYMPHONY & SYMPHONIC BAND

7:30 p.m. in Hodgson Concert Hall All Hugh Hodgson School of Music events take place at the UGA Performing Arts Center, 230 River Road in Athens unless indicated.