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OCTOBER 21, 2026 · VOL. 40 · NO. 42 · FREE

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The Olivia Tremor Control Third and Final Album Release The Same Place p. 13

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

this week’s issue

contents

Sci-fi clown punk band Sludge Incorporated from Asheville will be playing with Drí and the Violence and Nicholas Mallis and the Borealis at Flicker Theatre & Bar on Saturday, Oct. 24. For more shows, see the “Live Music Calendar” on p. 14.

This Modern World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Street Scribe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

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

Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Understanding FLOST

Big Jump Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Grub Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

NEWS: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

10th Congressional Seat

Curb Your Appetite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

ARTS & CULTURE: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

The Olivia Tremor Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Hendershot’s Rocky Horror

Live Music Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Threats & Promises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Event Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 ARTS & CULTURE: Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Art Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

David Hale Exhibition

Calendar Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bulletin Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

COVER DESIGN by Kelly Hart with photos by Jason Thrasher (see story on p. 13)

Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Adopt Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Local Comics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 MIKE WHITE · DEADLYDESIGNS.COM

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 Amanda Johnson, Gordon Lamb, Chad Radford, Ed Tant CARTOONISTS Missy Kulik, David Mack, Klon Waldrip, Joey Weiser CIRCULATION Gerald Burris, Charles Greenleaf, Joe Rowe EDITORIAL & OFFICE ASSISTANT Mary Beth Bryan EDITORIAL INTERNS Lily Thomas PHOTOGRAPHERS CJ Bartunek, Kat Wood, Jake Zerkel SPECIAL AGENT Pete McCommons

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

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

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

VOLUME 40 ISSUE NUMBER 42

Association of Alternative Newsmedia

PLEASE SUPPORT FREE LOCAL NEWS SUPPORT FLAGPOLE

online exclusive Young punk band The Linda Lindas performed at The Georgia Theatre on Saturday, Oct. 17 with blues rock guitarist Grace Bowers. See “Photo Gallery: The Linda Lindas at The Georgia Theatre” at flagpole.com.

OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

news

city dope

The Cost of FLOST

ACC EDUCATES VOTERS ON TAX REFERENDUM’S IMPACT, AND MORE NEWS

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com Athens-­Clarke County is not allowed to prices as a result of FLOST’s property tax advocate for a referendum on offsetting savings to offset the 1% sales tax hike. property taxes with sales taxes, but the More information about FLOST is local government has launched an extensive available at accgov.com/flost. ACC has also education campaign on FLOST. been using flyers, community events, social The proposed Floating Local Option media, email newsletters and other means Sales Tax, on the Nov. 3 ballot, is a 1% sales to get the word out, in addition to articles tax that can only be spent on cutting proppublished by Flagpole and other news outerty taxes by an identical dollar amount. lets, Montgomery said. “The key message is those dollars can’t be used for any other purposes,” ACC Manager Bob Cowell said at an Oct. 13 commission A long-­dormant Athens-­Clarke County work session. Land Bank Authority formed to acquire The state legislature created FLOST in property for affordable housing is getting 2024 as part of a law capping property close to being back up and running. assessment growth, allowing cities and The mayor and commission created the counties a way to recoup lost revenue. authority under Heidi Davison in 2009, but Since then about 40 Georgia communities it languished through the Nancy Denson have passed FLOST, including Oglethorpe County, according to Cowell. At Mayor Kelly administration until Mayor Kelly Girtz and the commission re-­established it in 2025. Girtz’s urging, the ACC Commission voted The land bank has the last summer to put it power to buy and sell on the ballot. But the One of the questions people real estate—including measure is confusing through tax sales—to for many voters and have is, ‘What do I save, clear titles, and to even elected officials. and how does it compare to what partner with devel“One of the quesopers, nonprofits and tions people have is, I spend?’ other government ‘What do I save, and authorities. how does it compare “Anybody who drives the back streets of to what I spend?’ And it’s so individual to this town knows there are a bunch of effecpeople that we had a real challenge trying tively abandoned properties that would be to figure out how best to do it,” ACC Public well-­situated as affordable housing stock,” Information Officer Jeff Montgomery said. Girtz said at an Oct. 13 commission work It all depends on how much money people session. spend on taxable goods and services, as At the work session, land bank authorwell as the value of their property and any ity board members asked for a $450,000 exemptions, such as the homestead exempbudget to cover 18 months of operation tion. Passing FLOST would cost anyone from Jan. 1 through the middle of 2028. who spends money in Athens—resident or That money would pay the salaries of an not—$10 for each $1,000 they spend. executive director and part-­time office manOne advantage is that out-­of-­town ager, office space rent and acquiring single-­ football fans, other visitors and UGA dorm family lots. residents would contribute more to the “We already have five lots of vacant local tax base. The tax also applies to items property ready to market, clear, do due bought online and delivered to Athens. It’s diligence on and put out there for develimpossible to quantify because the state’s opment,” board chair Greg O’Connell told sales tax collection system is opaque, but “a commissioners. significant amount is coming from outside In the future, the land bank will be parthe community,” Cowell said. tially self-­sustaining through the sale or On the other hand, the owner of a leasing of real estate, but no land bank in $250,000 home would save $320–$440 a year. FLOST would raise an estimated $37.6 Georgia is entirely self-­sufficient, according to O’Connell, so it will require ongoing million, allowing for a millage rate cut from funding. That could come through existing 12.25 mills to 7.83. The millage rate cut payments in lieu of property taxes from would shift slightly each year depending on the tax-­exempt Athens Housing Authority, property assessments and how much the as well as Athens-­Clarke County’s “strike 1% sales tax brings in, hence the “floating” fund” established to buy what is known aspect of the tax. Not just homeowners as naturally occurring affordable housing, would benefit, though—rental, commercial such as aging apartment complexes, when and industrial property owners would see they come on the market. the same benefit. “If our goal is to have the land bank focus Commissioner Melissa Link asked on affordable housing—which has been recwhether landlords would pass their savings ommended in the workforce housing study on to tenants. “It’s new enough in Georgia and our affordable housing strategy and that, even if research is done into that, it’s others—then it would be really helpful for too soon,” Cowell said. this body to recognize that affordable hous“If you’re not a property owner, there’s ing requires subsidy,” ACC Deputy Manager little evidence you’ll see any kind of rent Andrew Saunders said. “More than likely, decrease,” Link said. the land bank would require some ongoing “I don’t know if there’s any evidence in subsidy to help fund staff to manage the either direction,” said Girtz. Similarly, it’s program, and to do some of those land unknown whether businesses would reduce

Land Bank Ramps Up

“

The Georgia legislature passed a bill last transactions. Once that land is in play, there spring to establish a state music office simiis some return on capital.” lar to the existing film office, but Gov. Brian Some commissioners balked at the Kemp vetoed it. $100,000 salary for the executive direcBacklash against the ADDA switchtor and $40,000 for office rent. There is a ing to the ParkMobile app for downtown possibility that the ACC government, the AHA or a nonprofit partner could find office parking payment has gotten so bad that the authority is buying body cameras for space, but Saunders said there are “no great its employees. “We’ve had quite an uptick options” because ACC is experiencing a space crunch until the new judicial center is in aggressive behavior toward our staff,” Senior Operations built, and the existing Manager Rachel courthouse can be Anybody who drives the Swartz said. About 90 converted into municpercent of the instrucipal offices. As for the back streets of this town tional parking signs executive director’s knows there are a bunch of downtown have been salary, “We thought according this was a number effectively abandoned properties vandalized, to Swartz. Those signs that could attract have been replaced a quality candidate that would be well-­situated as with stickers until with real experience,” affordable housing stock. ParkMobile delivers O’Connell said. new signs. Mayor The commission is Kelly Girtz reiterated that Municipal Court scheduled to vote on the land bank’s fundJudge Stephanie Thompson had ordered the ing request at its Nov. 4 meeting. signs to be put up at every parking space. Swartz did note that complaints seemed to be falling off, and Ford said that visiting The Athens Downtown Development Oklahoma fans had no issues because, for Authority will hire a part-­time contractor to the most part, they were using ParkMorun Georgia’s first economic development bile already. “Once they’ve got the app on office devoted to music. their phone, they’re good to go,” Ford said. The ADDA board voted to hire UGA Paying by phone or text without the app graduate Mala Sharma of Georgia Music remains an option, as does paying with cash Partners and Atlanta-­based Sound Advice & or card at public parking decks. Consulting to establish the music office. She An official ribbon cutting for the $7 will be paid $30,000 for six months of work. million College Square plaza—paid for “We’re already known as a music city, mostly with future parking revenue—will but we can build on that like an Austin or take place Saturday, Oct. 24. It will feature Nashville,” ADDA Director of Business Serspeeches from Girtz and others at 11 a.m., vices Linda Ford said at the group’s Oct. 14 family activities from 1–4 p.m., and music meeting. from ’90s cover band BTBTE (Better Than David Bradley, president of the Athens Better Than Ezra) at 7 p.m. Free festival Area Chamber of Commerce, said that wristbands allowing open containers of alcolocal music producers have told him the holic beverages within the pedestrian plaza talent level in the city now is on par with will be available at The Grill and Walker’s. the 1980s, when R.E.M. and the B-­52s put On Nov. 21, the Saturday before ThanksAthens on the global map. The question is giving, the ADDA will host a business open how to capitalize on that talent and reputahouse called the Downtown Holiday Stroll tion from an economic perspective. Board that will feature a scavenger hunt designed member Andrew Ratcliffe of Tweed Recordby artist Will Eskridge and highlight the ing, who was not present last Wednesday, Chess & Community Classic City Chessawas the one who suggested a music office. thon happening the same day. f

“

ADDA Opens Music Office

OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Dozens of Door Prizes Tickets to the Rock Lobsters, OLLI and Center for Active Living memberships, Paper shredder Pedicure, Home goods baskets, Holiday wreath, Digital picture frame, Tailgate package, & more!

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

news

street scribe

Atlanta Race Riot

October IT WASN’T ALWAYS ‘THE CITYMonday, TOO BUSY TO 20HATE’

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com During the rise of the civil rights movement in the South in the early 1960s, Atlanta billed itself as “the city too busy to hate”— in contrast to Birmingham, an Alabama city that earned the nickname “Bombingham” because of its long history of white supremacist violence toward Black citizens there. Atlanta took a more moderate approach to race relations, while civil rights demonstrators in Birmingham were met with club-​ wielding cops, snarling police dogs, crowded jail cells and blasts of water from high-​pressure fire hoses. BIBLIOTHÈQUE NATIONALE DE FRANCE

minds of their fellow African Americans. In downtown Atlanta at the time, Asa Candler built his massive fortune on the city’s most famous product, Coca-​Cola. Just a few blocks from the “Coke King’s” posh office building was an African American inner city area that was a prime source of lurid headlines and seamy stories for Atlanta’s four competing white-​owned newspapers. Racism and rumors were stirred by the city’s newspapers and by the two Democratic contenders for Georgia governor, Hoke Smith and Clark Howell, during a time when Republicans had little influence in the state. Atlanta newspapers raged that the city’s Black community was awash in crime, lust, alcoholism, opium addiction and cocaine peddling. The stage was set for what became “the Atlanta Massacre.” Newspaper allegations of Black men victimizing white women and fiery, race-​baiting campaign speeches by Smith and Howell angered white Atlantans, and the riot began in the city’s downtown Monday, October 20 area. Maddened mobs of white men attacked Black-​owned homes and businesses with guns, clubs and other weapons. African Americans were A French newspaper depicted “the Massacre of Negroes in Atlanta.” pulled from streetcars and killed by the mobThough Atlanta prided itself on its more sters. Some corpses were stacked at the palatable approach to the civil rights strugbase of the downtown statue of Atlanta gle, history shows that it was not always Constitution newspaper editor Henry W. “the city too busy to hate.” Decades before Grady, a proponent of what was called “the the civil rights campaigns of the early new South” after the region’s Civil War 1960s, Atlanta was a hotbed of hatred and defeat. injustice. In September of 1906, 120 years To this day, no one knows the true cost ago, Atlanta was the scene of a deadly riot of the 1906 “race riot in Atlanta.” The that showed the deep roots of racism in the official death toll from the days of murder growing city. News of the carnage horrified and mayhem was 10 Blacks and two whites America and the world. In his 2001 book killed during the riot, “but there’s no way of Negrophobia: A Race Riot in Atlanta, 1906, knowing for sure,” according to Bauerlein. author Mark Bauerlein penned a compelling He estimated that about 50 Black Atlantans history of an event that shattered a city and may have been killed by white mobs during shook the South. Atlanta’s violence in 1906. Though the Bauerlein, a professor emeritus of Atlanta riot of 120 years ago was a sordid English at Emory University in Atlanta, chapter in Georgia’s history, Bauerlein was wove a true tale of how Jim Crow laws, correct when he said, “When it comes to political posturing during a Georgia guberrace relations in this country, everything— natorial race and sensation-​seeking white-​ no matter how shameful or horrifying— owned newspapers all combined into a ought to be revealed.” witches’ brew of tragedy that culminated in Washington and Du Bois differed on four days of white supremacist murder and policy and tactics, but both earned a promproperty destruction in Atlanta in 1906. inent place in Bauerlein’s book and in the Long-​forgotten history comes alive with history of this nation. Washington was action and immediacy in the pages of Bauright when he said, “A lie does not become erlein’s still-​timely and relevant book. truth, wrong does not become right, and Against a backdrop of postbellum evil does not become good, just because Atlanta rising from the ashes of the Civil it’s accepted by a majority.” Du Bois spoke War, the Black moderate Booker T. Washwords that are relevant today when he said, ington and the more militant W.E.B. Du “The cost of liberty is less than the price of Bois were bitter rivals for the hearts and repression.” f

MUSIC 26 | 27

FEATURED PERFORMANCES

WIND ENSEMBLE Celebrate American Composers

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 at 7:30 p.m. $20 - Adults $3 UGA students Hodgson Concert Hall plus $3 transaction fee

music.uga.edu 706-542-4400

This concert joins the celebrations of America 250 with works from composers including: John Williams, John Philip Sousa, William Grant Still, Michele Fernández, and Adam Schoenberg.

UGA Opera Theatre

EVENING OF OPERA SCENES FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 at 7:30 p.m. and SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 at 3 p.m. $15 - Adults Hodgson Concert Hall $3 UGA students Experience opera at its most intimate. plus $3 transaction fee

music.uga.edu 706-542-4400

This evening showcases a dynamic mix of our brightest rising talents and seasoned voices, combining raw vocal power with intense dramatic realism.

FREE PERFORMANCES REPERTORY SINGERS

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21 at 3:30 p.m. RAMSEY CONCERT HALL

BRITISH BRASS BAND

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21 at 7:30 p.m. HODGSON CONCERT HALL

GUEST ARTIST

GABRIEL PIQUÉ, saxophone

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 at 7:30 p.m. RAMSEY CONCERT HALL

GUEST ARTIST

FOWLER-MROFCHAK GUITAR DUO

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 at 7:30 p.m. EDGE RECITAL HALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC, 250 RIVER ROAD

GUEST ARTIST

EVAN MITCHELL, piano

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 at 7:30 p.m. RAMSEY CONCERT HALL All Hugh Hodgson School of Music events take place at the Charles and Lynne Knapp Performing Arts Center, 230 River Road in Athens unless indicated. 10_21_HHSOM.indd 1

10/15/26 4:56 PM

OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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news

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Can DeLancy Deliver?

DEMOCRAT CHALLENGES HOUSTON GAINES FOR CONGRESSIONAL SEAT

By Lily Thomas news@flagpole.com

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Georgia’s 10th Congressional DeLancy said she would work with District—including Athens and Congress members whose agenda supports most of the surrounding counties—Rep. the needs of the people, regardless of their Mike Collins is running against U.S. Sen. political affiliation, and that she would vote Jon Ossoff, leaving the seat open. While against her party if it would benefit conthe district generally votes over 60 percent stituents. DeLancy is interested in working Republican, Democrats are hoping that with Republicans on the Veterans’ Affairs a nationwide blue wave can help Pamela Committee, Armed Service Committee or DeLancy close the gap against the heavily Nursing Legislative Caucus. favored candidate, state Rep. Houston When asked how she would balance Gaines (R-​Athens). the competing needs of constituents in a Delancy, who grew up in Houston and is diverse district spanning the Atlanta suba McDonough resident, brings experience in urbs, conservative rural areas and the liberal nursing and health care administration to college town of Athens, DeLancy is in favor the race, as well as 39 years of service in the of having two district offices to adequately Army. For the last six years of her military serve rural, urban and suburban areas. career, she served as director of medical She listed health-​care accessibility as a key readiness at the Pentagon, writing health-​ issue for everyone. Gaines said he does not care policy and working with Congress. believe in a “one-​size-​fits-​all approach” and “I have been serving people my whole “intends to spend a significant amount of life,” DeLancy said in an interview, citing time throughout all 20 counties… Providing volunteerism in her community and service on the District 4 Board of Public Health as giving her insight into constituent needs, stating that “service comes naturally to me.” Her top priorities if elected are raising the minimum wage, Medicaid expansion, Medicare for all and protecting Social Security. Gaines is an Athens native who has represented Georgia House District 120 since 2019. “I’ve authored more than 20 (l to r) Pamela DeLancy and Houston Gaines bills that have become law. I know how to turn ideas into actual results,” he told Flagpole via email. first-​class constituent services will be my “That combination of private sector expemost important responsibility.” rience, legislative experience and deep On federal policies to lower health care roots in this community has prepared me costs, Gaines emphasized transparency to be an effective congressman for the about costs for patients and stronger com10th District.” His top priority if elected is, petition in the health care system. “I sup“to deliver results that make government port reforms to pharmacy benefit managers work better for the people it serves,” citing so middlemen aren’t driving up prescription fiscal sanity, public safety, strengthening drug costs, as well as policies that increase the economy, and ensuring the federal govaccess to generics and other lower-​cost ernment is accountable to taxpayers as key medications.” issues. DeLancy pointed to Medicaid expansion On fostering bipartisanship at the as the No. 1 way to lower health care costs national level, Gaines recalled “working for the more than 1 million Georgians across the aisle to pass strong anti-​human currently without health insurance. She trafficking legislation and legislation to favors legislation that permanently restores protect victims of domestic violence” in Affordable Care Act subsidies, as well as the Georgia House. “I would vote against a higher minimum wage to address rising my own party if I believed something being costs. DeLancy said if the government advanced went against my values or the does not help people escape poverty, it will interests of the 10th District,” he said. have to provide funds back for nutrition “One area where I believe Republicans and programs like SNAP and WIC. “If people are Democrats can work together is ensuring relying on a food bank, then we know we members of Congress cannot use their posi- have a problem here in the United States,” tions to enrich themselves by using insider she said. information to trade stocks.” DeLancy called wearing an Army uniGaines has often been at odds with form for 39 years her greatest accomplishconstituents and local officials in heavily ment, as well as advocating for veterans at Democratic Athens, though, for examthe Pentagon, volunteering as a nurse at ple sponsoring legislation to unilaterally a free community clinic and sitting on the redraw Athens-​Clarke County Commission Board of Public Health in Henry County. districts, requiring cash bail for certain “I’m not about just finding a problem. I’m minor crimes, seeking to reign in progresabout finding solutions,” she said. sive prosecutors and allowing homeowners Gaines said he is proudest of the Coleto sue local governments for not enforcing man-​Baker Act, named for murdered UGA laws against the homeless. student Tara Baker, “which gives families of

F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

cold-​case murder victims a process to have their loved one’s case reviewed and, when appropriate, reinvestigated using modern technology and investigative techniques.” Another accomplishment he cited was funding a new cold case unit in the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Gaines has been a strong supporter of Donald Trump, and when asked if there are any issues he may disagree with the president on, said: “I think Washington— including both parties—has failed for too long to seriously confront spending and the national debt… There’s no reason we can’t work with President Trump to make that happen.” DeLancy has centered her campaign on her oath to defend the Constitution rather than a political party, and she said she would vote against Democratic leadership if asked to support something that violates these principles. Key rights like freedom of speech and of the press must be defended, she said. On immigration, DeLancy favors a secure border and a better process for individuals to legally enter the country and secure citizenship. Yet, she criticized the current actions of ICE, including putting people into detention centers. “I think America’s at an all-​time low, and I am searching for the moral compass of this country,” she said. On the other hand, Gaines supports making the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies permanent. “Our Southern border is now secure, and we should keep it that way,” he said. “Congress has a responsibility to write clear, enforceable laws that secure the border and protect American communities.” With most voters in Athens leaning to the left, Gaines pointed to constituent services as a reason for them to support him. “Whether you are Republican, Democrat or independent, you deserve a congressman who answers the phone, shows up and helps when you have a problem with the federal government,” he said. The path to victory in the deep-​red 10th District runs through more rural and suburban communities that mostly vote GOP. But today’s issues are not political, according to DeLancy. Our Constitution is being disrespected. And at the end of the day, we take an oath to the Constitution,” she said. “So if individuals in this country, regardless of your political affiliation, don’t know the difference between a democratic country and a fascist dictatorship country, then you need to look it up. “Those aren’t partisan issues. Those are real-​people issues. And if you don’t mind your family starving, you can’t put gas in your car, you don’t want health care, then maybe I am not the candidate for you. But if you want somebody that’s gonna stand up and represent all the things that every human being in this world needs, then I am the candidate that you should be voting for.” As a relatively young candidate at age 31, Gaines also expressed an interest in technology-​related issues like digital assets and artificial intelligence. “I believe Congress will operate better by having even more of the next generation represented,” he said. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, and early voting runs through Friday, Oct. 30. f

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8/4/26 12:32 PM

LIVE SCORE BY MICHAEL SHAPIRO

FRANKENSTEIN WITH THE ATHENS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

OCTOBER 25 | 6:30 P.M. THE CLASSIC CENTER THEATRE

PRESENTED BY FRIENDS OF THE ATHENS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND CLASSIC ENTERTAINMENT OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Skydiving for a Cause

Homelessness Is Not a Crime

By Libba Beaucham arts@flagpole.com

Stop Littering, Part Two

Billionaires Influence Elections

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

ESP’S BIG JUMP FESTIVAL TAKES ITS FINAL LEAP

A

fter 15 years of skydiving for a cause, Extra Special People’s Big Jump Festival will come in for a final landing on Oct. 25 in Monroe. The event has been a unique way to raise money and awareness for the nonprofit, which serves people with disabilities and their families. “It’s about doing some things that are sometimes a little scary, which certainly skydiving is for some folks, and recognizing just what our families do on a day-­to-­day basis,” said ESP Athens Executive Director Craig Portwood. “They’re able to overcome challenges, step into new spaces, take care of things in their lives that for them is not always a choice. We get a chance to do this as our homage to them in some small way—‘Hey, we’re doing these hard things to celebrate you’—while also helping to fund our mission.” Over the years, Big Jump has inspired everyone from UGA legend Vince Dooley to brave grandmothers like Pattie, who is jumping for her grandson for the third time this year, to make the leap. “The Dooley story is a fantastic one, with three generations jumping on the same day. But to me, it’s those wonderful family connections that are really powerful and a whole lot of fun to witness,” Portwood said. “For some, it’s kind of a bucket list item. They’ve thought about doing this before, but the opportunity never presented itself, and they thought, ‘All right, I’m going to do this, and do it for a worthwhile cause.’” The event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the organization, but ESP will launch a new signature fundraiser next year. “This is the last Big Jump piece from a skydiving-­for-­fundraising perspective. We will do our Fall Family Festival next year, but we’re going to come up with a new signature fundraising event for our Athens location of ESP,” Portwood said. The organization also has big plans for the future. “We have a 10-­year vision for the company as a whole,” Portwood said. “We’re talking about increasing the number of families we’re serving and finding wonderful models of financial sustainability so we can continue to provide services in a way that reduces the cost for families.” Martha Wyllie founded Extra Special People in 1986 in Watkinsville as a one-­ week summer camp for kids with disabilities. Today, the nonprofit has four locations in Georgia and one in North Carolina. It has

expanded to include after-­school programs, adult services, family resources and job training for people with disabilities. “We’re serving 940 families out of our location right now, and that’ll be at 1,000 by the end of the year,” Portwood said. “In three to five years, we’ll be serving 1,500, 1,600 families out of Athens-­Watkinsville.” Demand for services for children and adults with disabilities continues to grow across Georgia. According to the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, nearly 8,000 Georgians with intellectual and developmental disabilities are on the state’s Medicaid waiver waitlist. COURTESY OF ESP

that’s just some of the spending that tilts our elections disastrously away from the Earlier this month, the issue of homepublic interest. lessness arose in a mayor and commission Here in Georgia, we have billionaire Rick discussion. It was decided that, in 90 days, Jackson running for governor. He’s already camping in public spaces will be banned spent $110 million and is expected to spend in Athens-​Clarke County. Commissioners about $200 million more to win that seat. gave their reasoning, feeling like their past But I question why anyone in the health attempts were not enough to fight a strong care industry is a billionaire. While his systemic issue. Commissioners believe this wealth doesn’t come from denying patient is a community matter—that homelessness claims (because he’s not in that part of the requires help from everyone in Athens. If industry), two of his firms have had to pay this is a community issue, why is our comout millions to settle class-​action lawsuits mission banning the basic human action brought by foreign-​born nurses shorted on of trying to survive? Research from the their wages. Who else is being shorted? National Alliance to End Homelessness has And then there’s trillionaire Elon Musk, shown that criminalizing homelessness who has shoveled $276 million into Repubcreates a negative cycle of further debt, lican campaigns and his super PAC in the and increased challenges of employing the last three months alone Other massive individual. Furthermore, criminalization is donations he’s made to Republicans have expensive. triggered government contracts on the The commission supposedly desires same day. these citations to minimally evolve into Another pay-​to-​play case is Sen. Susan arrests. They hope that providing these Collins of Maine. It has come to light citations and “conrecently that her necting them to staff worked closely services” will be with a defense conFlagpole is no longer enough, but if that tractor to obtain accepting letters to the editor is the case, then sizable donations related to the Nov. 3 election. why would they to her campaign simply not connect in exchange for the unhoused to putting the firm’s services? What makes the commission military craft in the defense budget for a believe that the unhoused have not already product it turns out the Navy didn’t want attempted to receive services? Perhaps they and never used. President Trump has called are receiving services, but it is not simply off the FBI’s investigation into the matter. enough. I suggest they use their budget to I’ll admit that other politicians over the reform the Homeless Day Service Center, years have lined their coffers in this way, which just shut down this week, or create wasting billions of taxpayer dollars and more night services. corrupting elections. It’s obvious that we The Athens-​Clarke County Commission need to get money out of politics (check needs to do better. This is not a community out a proposed 28th Amendment called For issue; this issue lies in a system that refuses Our Freedom), but meanwhile we need to to take accountability and responsibility. expose the culprits flooding our airwaves This issue of systemic inequality lies in the with attack ads. Vote not for the billionvery government we trusted and elected aire’s interests, but for people struggling to to make this city better. Do not push this keep their footing and keep their businesses issue into the hands of someone else; be the afloat in a country awash in debt, deception people who solve a systemic issue. Athens and negativity. holds an accommodating reputation. Do Pat Priest not allow it to criminalize the very people Athens you promised to help. Cassie Kennedy Athens I just read the letter “Stop Littering” (Aug. 19), and I agree wholeheartedly. We moved to Athens 10 years ago from another Billionaires and corporations have their state, and the littering here and all over sums on the scale in our elections in AmerGeorgia has been upsetting me ever since. ica, but citizens hoping for change can still Practically daily I pick up so much carelessly win if they pay attention. tossed litter from the ditch in front of our Take the case of Sherrod Brown of Ohio. house, it makes me angry. People should I’ll get to Georgia in a minute. Brown is care that this state is all of our home. running to regain a seat in the Senate after We have traveled to all 48 lower states he lost in 2024 in large part because the and across Canada, and it is far worse here. cryptocurrency industry spent $40 million Why don’t people care? Keep your fast food to defeat him. They targeted him because he packages, cups and mini-​liquor bottles in chaired the banking committee, where he the car, and throw them away when you get sought to put safeguards in place to reguhome or stop at a store. (Amazing, there are late crypto. Their ad campaigns didn’t reveal disposal options everywhere, and they are their interests, as most Americans want not invisible.) restraints that prevent money laundering I take pride in living in this beautiful and fraud, and keep our whole financial area and don’t appreciate the careless attisystem more stable. Instead, they hamtude of the people who just don’t care. mered him in other ways, and are pledging Babs Kall $40 million to defeat him this year. And Athens

ESP also emphasizes the importance of supporting family members and caregivers. “We say all the time that we want ESP to be a place where every family is seen, known and loved. That support community is so essential. It makes a difference not just for the member, but the entire family, the siblings and everybody,” Portwood said. Everyone is welcome to watch the skydivers and enjoy kid-­friendly activities at the Big Jump Festival on Oct. 25 at Skydive Monroe. Skydiving runs from 8 a.m.–3 p.m., and activity booths and vendors are open from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Admission is $5 per person or $20 per family. Portwood encourages people who haven’t experienced ESP to come out and connect with its members, volunteers and staff. “People are eager to be part of this safe community where we don’t ask you to apologize for who you are,” he said. “Just come be who you are.” For more information, visit espyouand​ me.org. f

grub notes

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner

AMANDA JOHNSON

food & drink

SIMPLIFIED MENUS SERVING UP CRISPY CHICKEN

By Amanda Johnson food@flagpole.com HOT OR NOT CHICKEN CO. (1016 E. Broad St., instagram.com/hotornotchickenco): Hot or Not Chicken Co. opened its doors in late April in the building that had been home to Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods for nearly 40 years. The space has transformed with a new paint job: hot pink, sunshine yellow and sky blue replacing the formerly all-​ atomic-​green exterior. As we entered, we were greeted by one of the cooks, who when we asked how he was doing in return, said, “Great, now that you are here!” A genuine and warm welcome that started our experience out on the right foot. The unmistakable aroma of well-​seasoned fryer oil permeates the tidy and compact dining room. “O.P.P.” by Naughty by Nature boomed through the sound system as we took our seats and waited for our meals. In fact the playlist was composed of many old school hip-​hop and R&B bangers, which falls right in line with the Hot or Not mission: “Real Food. Made Fresh. Served Loud.” They even have a mascot, a smiling boom box dude dubbed “Lil Boom,” with one job, to keep the room loud. The menu is straightforward and streamlined: choose three, four or six tenders, hot or not. Meals come with fries and cornbread or slaw. We ordered both types

of tendies with all the sides and thoroughly enjoyed it. The chicken was insanely juicy, well-​breaded and seasoned. The hot is Nashville style, which is tossed in a lightly sweet, smoky and spicy oil with heat that builds as you bite. As far as the sides go, the crinkle fries were just as they should be, the cornbread fluffy and sweet, and the slaw of the standard shredded variety. For dipping sauces, choose from awesome sauce (read: ubiquitous pink sauce) or ranch, which was an herb-​forward take on the classic. If you are living the gluten-​free life, Hot or Not should definitely be on your radar. Nearly all of their menu items are gluten-​ free, and they operate a dedicated gluten-​ free fryer. For dessert, we tried both the traditional banana pudding and the GF Butterfinger pudding of the month. I suppose I am a bit of a banana pudding purist and was expecting thick vanilla custard with bananas and plenty of cookies topped with whipped cream. The Hot or Not version was tasty, but it felt like it was mostly whipped cream with strata of cookie bits and banana or butterfinger. Not bad by any means, but just not my favored formulation. I will definitely be back for more good food and great tunes. Until then love, peace

LUMPKIN & CEDAR SHOALS 706 -355-7087

CUBAN SANDWICH • TOSTONES • QUESADILLAS • TACOS • BURRITOS

CUBAN SANDWICH • TOSTONES • QUESADILLAS • TACOS • BURRITOS

• LOMO SA LTA D O • W I N GS • E M PA N A DA S • S H A K E S • M A D U RO S •

Hot or Not Chicken Co.

and chicken grease. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m.–9 p.m and closed Sundays. WILLIE B’S CHICKEN COUPE (1590 Lexington Road, williebschicken.com): Earlier this year Willie B’s Chicken Coupe opened its second Athens location on Lexington Road. The cashier belted out, “Welcome to the Coupe!” as we pulled up, and I have to admit I appreciate the homonym wordplay coop/coupe for a drive-​through chicken joint. First things first, the tenders are big. I ordered the four-​tender meal, and it was more than enough for me and the kiddo.

The tenders are coated in a shaggy and craggy breading that is immensely crispy. They made it home without becoming the least bit soggy. Recently I have been teaching my toddler the sounds of farm animals, as one does; in this case the sound a chicken makes is CRUNCH. The breading is heavy on onion and garlic powder, but it didn’t contain enough salt to truly capitalize on these seasonings. Thankfully there are a myriad of sauces to assist. I chose the Willie Sauce, mainly because it sounded a little uncouth, though it turned out to be unctuous, savory and very much akin to Cane’s or Zax sauce, but with an extra dose of worchestershire. The fries are straight cut and somewhat unremarkable, and the toast is the squat sesame-​sprinkled cousin of Texas toast. Another time we checked out breakfast, which was decent—the same very crispy chicken on a buttery biscuit. The hashbrowns are actually tater tots, and cheese grits are on the menu, both items a big hit for the aforementioned toddler. We dined inside and, while it was clean and accommodating, I can’t recommend it. I guess I just don’t like to be cooped up. Willie B’s Chicken Coupe is open Monday through Thursday 6 a.m.–10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 6 a.m.–11:30 p.m., and Sunday 7 a.m.–10 p.m. f

NEW LUNCH MENU OPTIONS

Serving Athens since 2006 www.mamasboyathens.com

OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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music

threats & promises

Liz Farrell’s The Fool PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com POSTSCRIPT: Pretty much hot on the heels of his latest album, Enervation Land, Garett Hatch has released a four-­ song EP of acoustic tracks named Solid Ground. On it, he revisits three of his songs and strips them down. First is “Face Card Blues,” which he turns into a deep meditation. “Town” embodies the same energy, but due to the song’s construction is necessarily more driving. His acoustic version of “The Speaker” shines specifically with its fingerpicking and a sound arrangement that gets more intense as it goes. The title track is a new one, and it’s much more whimsical and resigned-­sounding than the others, but this song of self-­reflection is wonderfully lyrical and contains, to my ears, a very specific Robert Johnson reference, but if I’m wrong don’t tell me. Find it at garetthatch. bandcamp.com.

doing its Elvis best while singing about The King himself. And if you can keep your eyes dry during the sweet plea of friendship “I’m Here,” then your cold heart should be glad winter is coming. This is available on CD, vinyl and digital download. For more information, please see strollingbones​ records.com/love-­craft, lovecraftathens.org and thelove​ craft​band.bandcamp.com. ALL NIGHT FEVER: The first demo by Bone Bag is now available on cassette tape courtesy of the Lead Mouth label. Simply titled Pile Of Demos, this particular pile is kind of small at only three tracks. That said, what’s here is more

ON THE EDGE OF A DREAM: Songwriter Liz Farrell (Common Currents) released a new three-­song EP named The Fool: Three Songs last week. Now, if you read this column regularly and ever think, “This guy has a lot of opinions. Maybe I’ll finally check some of this music out,” then I implore you to choose this. From the opening piano chords of “Sky So Blue,” this music embraces the listener with its warm melancholy and resignation. And Farrell’s voice is just magnificent and powerful without being overbearing. The tune of “For The Rest of My Life” brings the mood up slightly, but lyrically it’s on the same page as the previous song. The record closes relatively upbeat, and the lyrics present a hymn-­like structure which the background vocals reinforce. There are some lightly dramatic sections in the music, but those are mostly during transitional phrases. That said, when pianist Claudia Beroukhim makes the keys speak loudly it’s well worth your time. Find this at lizfarrell. bandcamp.com, and for more information, please see lizfarrellmusic.cowsite.net. GUITAR PARTY: When faced with an unexpected and large dental bill, guitarist, improviser and composer Shane Parish, in a very workman-­like way, cranked up his home studio to craft and record something that could help offset these costs. In the process he wound up with, as he says, “a cohesive little album.” Working only with guitar, a looper and effects, Parish once again has delivered a collection that is both intellectually stimulating and aurally invigorating. Liz Farrell My favorite among the group is probably the howlingly aggressive and cleverly named “Smash the Fasc.” In it, Parish cuts loose in an improvisational way that than enough for a new listener. Originally released in 2023, these tracks kind of mapped out the Bone Bag blueprint of mimics, but does not necessarily mirror, the activities on brutality. First, there’s the heavy gauntlet march of “Heel the other tracks. I’m not quite sure where history will place this in terms of his discography but, for now, it’s a nice slice Turn,” then the unsettling and barely tuneful “Plush,” and finally the band’s cover of Butthole Surfers’ “22 Going On of quick work that lives in the moment. Find it at shane​ 23” (stylized here as “22goingon23”) which they’ve someparish.bandcamp.com. how managed to make just as disturbing as the original was WE ARE ALL GOD’S CHILDREN: The debut album by The Love. in 1987. And that’s no easy task considering how used to Craft Band came out a couple of weeks ago courtesy of things music fans get. Find this and order online via lead​ Strolling Bones Records. It’s titled We Are The LCB, and mouth.bandcamp.com. the group is an “all abilities” band. Four of six members STRAIGHT TALK: Marcel Sletten, Primordial Void label head have developmental disabilities, and this group was born and prolific artist himself, is heading out on the road with from the wonderful work of Love.Craft Athens, which Organically Programmed next month. Heading out helps adults with developmental disabilities “by facilitating twice, actually, and it’s dubbed the “Hardware vs. Software meaningful, productive, and integrated opportunities.” Tour,” which feels appropriate. On Nov. 4 and 5 the artists Folks, this album is a joy. Working largely in the areas of will play Cincinnati and Louisville, KY, respectively. Then, pop and R&B, the group has made this a tight collection on Nov. 20 and 21, they’ll hit Asheville and Knoxville, of songs both, uh, well-­crafted and delivered. The bandin that order. Since this announcement will live online wagonesque “Come Dance With Us” is an early ’80s-­style way past the street date of this issue, here’s to folks comfunky soul number, and “Crush” occupies a similar place ing across it and heading out to the shows. Catch up on but is more low key. “Wild Child,” the album’s first rocker, Sletten via primordialvoid.bandcamp.com, and listen in to is a story about (as best I can tell) going to see the band Organically Programmed at cloudrecordings.bandcamp. Everlife (which broke up in 2013), and there’s a really nice com. f set of “ooh-­oohs” in the background. “Tupelo” has the band

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

music

feature

The Olivia Tremor Control ICONIC ATHENS BAND RELEASES FINAL ALBUM THE SAME PLACE

By Chad Radford music@flagpole.com

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“I show up kind of late in the film, and I’m kind of the last guy in charge of what could become an Olivia Tremor Control album,” explains producer, Pylon Reenactment Society guitarist and Chase Park Transduction mastering engineer Jason NeSmith. “I didn’t want to be the guy who didn’t finish the album.” First, he got the blessing of longtime collaborators Robert Schneider of the Apples In Stereo and OTC bass, organ and piano

JASON THRASHER

nside the Olivia Tremor Control’s kaleidoscopic pop songs, the past and present have always occupied the same place. The Athens band (by way of Ruston, LA) makes the familiar feel newly mysterious, folding fragments of melody, harmony and imagination into buoyant psychedelic rock that thrives in its own blissful universe. The group’s first two albums, Music From The Unrealized Film Script “Dusk At Cubist Castle” and Black Foliage: Animation Music Volume 1, bend time as the boundaries between memory and reality melt away. The Olivia Tremor Control’s first album in 27 years, The Same Place, arrives as a bittersweet triumph and the final chapter in the group’s saga. The album’s seeds were planted circa 2009, when principal songwriters Bill Doss and Will Cullen Hart began assembling demos, song fragments and ideas, working with their extended circle of musicians—tenants of Athens’ famed Elephant 6 collective (sharing members with Neutral Milk Hotel, the Apples in Stereo, Elf Power, of Montreal and more). Four days after playing a show at the Georgia Theatre—what ultimately became the group’s final live performance—Doss died from an aneurysm on July 30, 2012. He was 43 years old. The new recordings the group had been working on were left on a hard drive in Doss’ studio. Work on the album resumed briefly in 2017 during production of director C.B. Stockfleth’s The Elephant 6 Recording Co. documentary.

player Peter Erchick. “I talked with Will and his wife Kelly about it,” NeSmith says. “We met with Bill’s wife Amy, and we found the long-­­dormant hard drive that might not have booted up at all. But it did, and I copied as much audio as I possibly could.” First, NeSmith and Hart fleshed out the songs “Garden of Light” and “The Same Place,” which appear in the E6 documentary and on the film’s soundtrack. When work on the album resumed, tragedy struck again as Hart died from a heart attack at age 53 on Nov. 29, 2024. “Rather than pausing to grieve, Derek

Almstead, Ron Kwasman, Pete, Kelly and I focused on finishing the record before more tragedy could befall anyone else,” NeSmith says. Released Oct. 26 via Elephant 6, The Same Place is a moving distillation of everything that makes the Olivia Tremor Control’s music so enduring. It also reveals a newfound sophistication capturing Doss at his most expressive, delivering refined vocal performances alongside Hart’s most nuanced songwriting and textural flourishes. Songs such as the opening number “Begin Now!,” “Advice From the Oceans” and “Timewaster” move between luminous pop and intricate collages. As the album unfolds, a seven-­­part song suite titled “Path of the Parallels” emerges, distilling OTC’s gift for transforming shape-­­shifting songs into something otherworldly. The Same Place keeps the spirit of Doss and Hart’s songwriting alive while finding new meanings in familiar songs such as “Spinning Continuous,” which Hart’s band the Circulatory System had played for years. “There are several songs that we were doing in Circulatory System from 2002 that didn’t get used,” Almstead says. “When we started initially, we listened through a bunch of stuff and filed it into different piles: This one will be for the OTC record. This will be for Circulatory System. This will be for whatever Bill’s side project could be called. “This album was about 90% done recording-­­wise,” he adds. “Some of the songs are things that Jason, Bill and I started independently, before OTC reformed. So it’s kind of a hodgepodge of stuff that everybody had worked on at the time.” NeSmith and Almstead both add that working on The Same Place felt like a return to the ongoing continuum that connects many of Hart and Doss’ projects. “Listening to Music From The Unrealized Film Script “Dusk At Cubist Castle,” I always

get the feeling that there were a lot of elements that came from other projects like Always Red Society and Sunshine Fix that were brought into OTC. Then there were songs that they recorded as the OTC. This record is a bit like that,” he adds. “Mostly, we filled in some color and did a lot of mixing.” Reeds and bass player John Kiran Fernandes takes solace in knowing that the parts he had recorded for the album were already done. “About 90% of my overdubs for the record had Bill’s seal of approval,” Fernandes says. “He made rough mixes of a lot of the material for other members of the group before he passed. My overdubs are prominently in the mixes. So I don’t have to guess, ‘Would he have wanted this stuff there or would he not?’ I know they had his seal of approval, and that’s a good feeling.” One of the album’s most recently recorded songs was written by Erchick, titled “Now Begin” (not to be confused with the album’s opening number “Begin Now!”). “Some of the lyrics are from 2007–2008,” Erchick says. “‘The news might never reach you’ had a placeholder, and ‘Go bye, we go bye, goodbye, goodbye again’ are words from the first version of the song. I had to fill in some verses. Then ‘Time in, time out, now begin.’ The title fit because I was referencing ‘Begin Now!.’ Olivia in the past has been self-­­referential; I referenced a couple of Bill’s lyrics from different places.” In the end, The Same Place feels less like a return to the past than a continuation of something that never stopped unfolding. Its songs carry the fingerprints of the people who made them, preserving Doss and Hart’s imaginations while allowing their music to take on new shapes and meanings. “The thing that I relearned was that we all have an energy, and that we influence everything around us as long as we’re alive and after we die,” NeSmith says. “We all felt Bill’s energy when he was gone, and we felt Will’s energy when he was gone, and that’s what carried this project forward. And we’re going to keep being influenced by it as long as we’re still alive.” What emerges along the way is a record that holds loss and possibility in the same breath, and in the same place. f

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live music calendar Tuesday 20

40 Watt Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $20 (adv.), $23. www.40watt.com RATBOYS Chicago-​based indie-​ rock and alt-​country band on tour in support of its sixth studio album, Singin’ to an Empty Chair. SMIDLEY The project from Foxing singer Conor Murphy. Daily Groceries Co-​op Tuesday Tunes. 6–7:30 p.m. www. instagram.com/dailycoop JOHN BROCATO Eclectic alternative and indie influences, ambitious and unconventional structures with word-​heavy and narrative-​driven lyrics. Normal Bar 8–11 p.m. www.instagram.com/normal_bar_athens OPEN MIC Live music from talented local musicians, hosted on Tuesdays by Rudy Montayre. Ramsey Hall 7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu GUEST ARTIST/FACULTY RECITAL Vocalist Anne Slovin and violist Rose Wollman perform “Her Secret Life.” WUOG Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org TRVY & THE ENEMY Live hip-​hop band that fearlessly breaks barriers in the realm of modern rap music, blending elements of trap with psychedelic rock.

Wednesday 21 Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciatthefalls AUSTIN SISK & ALLIE BRYAN Singer-​songwriter duo playing alt-​ pop and country. Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring pop, rock, indie and more. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu UGA BRITISH BRASS BAND Brass band with a repertoire that encompasses a wide variety of styles including original works, transcriptions of orchestral works, marches and more, conducted by Gilbert Villagrana. Live Wire Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show) (two sets). $20 (adv.), $25. bit.ly/LiveWireAthensOct21 LAMP Vermont-​based Russ Lawton (drums), RayPaczkowski (keys) and Brooklynite Scott Metzger (guitar) distill singular, road-​honed improv instincts into taut, instrumental epics. Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebarathensga TOMMY HEDGEHOG Athens-​ based indie-​rock band playing music that ranges from high-​energy rock blues to soft ballads and soothing lounge-​style jazz. WILTING PAGES Musical alias of multi-​instrumentalist singer-​songwriter Lander Combs. BAD FIRST DATE Julia Elmore’s resonant musical project.

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RSVP for Location Attaboy Presents Pulaski Garden Show. 6:45 p.m. www.instagram. com/attaboytapes HOG-​EYED MAN Athens duo blends Appalachian old-​time music with multicultural traditions. JOSEPH DECOSIMO Singer, multi-​instrumentalist and leading interpreter and teacher of traditional music from Southern Appalachia. DIPPER GRANDE Alt-​cosmic music from Athens. Ramsey Hall 3:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu UGA REPERTORY SINGERS A mixed chamber choir directed by graduate student conductors.

Thursday 22 Athentic Brewing Co. Blues on Tap. 7–9 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com THE ORIGINAL SCREW TOPS Blues jam for musicians, dancers and music lovers. Ciné 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com TINY CITY Charlotte, NC band with danceability, driving riffs, captivating choruses and an eclectic perspective on music. EIGHT PICTURES Like if Pixies took Morrissey’s lunch money. SEEKING APPROVAL Athens-​ based psych-​funk band performing a mix of originals and covers. CASSETTIQUETTE Indie-​rock band from Charlotte, NC blending introspective lyrics with dreamy, atmospheric sounds. Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $10 (adv.), $15. www.deadbeatathens.com LIVING STILL A balance of rock, folk and psychedelia from Athens. Single release show! KRPA Athens rock band. Album release show! AVERY DEAKINS BAND “Founktry” band that cut its teeth in the bars and Greek life scenes around the Southeast. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com CANADIAN RIFLE Midwestern rough and ear-​splitting punk rock. WEAPONIZED FLESH Loud, fast thrash metal with intense energy and elements of d-​beat punk and hardcore. Final show! RAUNCHER Electronic duo from Athens blending aggressive bass, experimental sampling and dark punk vibes with a pop sensibility and a focus on overstimulation of mind and body. 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. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). www. hendershotsathens.com SWING THEORY Jazz collective plays standards and arrangements. Hotel Indigo Live After Five. 5:30–8 p.m. www. indigoathens.com TRIO METRO This piano, sax and drums trio plays jazz standards and an array of more contemporary covers.

F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $20. music.uga.edu CELEBRATING AMERICAN COMPOSERS UGA Wind Ensemble celebrates America250 with works from composers including John Williams, John Philip Sousa, William Grant Still, Michele Fernández and Adam Schoenberg. Hugh Hodgson School of Music Edge Hall. 6 p.m. FREE! music.uga. edu STUDIO OF DR. PETRONGELLI Vocal students perform “2026: A Year of Song.” Little Kings Shuffle Club Attaboy Presents. 7 p.m. $12. www. instagram.com/attaboytapes THE FALLING SPIKES Loud, dumb rock and roll. SOUP ACTIVISTS St. Louis lo-​fi pop for fans of C86, Sarah Records and Flying Nun. DOG PERSON Organ-​driven pop with breezy ennui from members of The Buddy System, Nana Grizol and Go Public. WAGGING Asheville-​based band with candy-​coated melodies, tangled guitar textures and and adept rhythm arrangements. Nowhere Bar 9:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/ nowherebarathensga CRUSH FUND Deranged punksters from Brooklyn. TOMMYGUN Athens punk band. CRITTER FRITTER Self-​described “idiot noise space sludge punk rock.” The World Famous 10 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ theworldfamousathens SOOFLAY Unique lo-​fi garage rock project spearheaded by Fort Wayne, IN-​based musician, stop-​motion filmmaker, and cardboard artist Sam Clay. SPOIL Violence from Athens. ETHAN MULLENAX Lo-​fi, one-​ man indie bedroom orchestra from Athens.

Friday 23 Athentic Brewing Co. 7:30–10:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com THE ORIGINAL SPLITZ BAND A mixed drink of the classic Motown sound, part 1970s funk and disco flavor, a dash of the old-​school and contemporary R&B, and a guaranteed good time. Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $10 (adv.), $12. www.deadbeatathens.com ARMISTEAD’S ARMI A kaleidoscopic collective recalling the best of early ’80s Athens pop, led by music and art scene visionary Armistead Wellford (Love Tractor). ANNE RICHMOND BOSTON Former vocalist/keyboardist of Atlanta new wave/jangle pop band The Swimming Pool Q’s. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com CALVIN LOVE Canadian singer-​ songwriter whose music lingers in the shadows of nostalgia and noir, merging psych-​folk, cinematic longing and romanticism. ELIJAH JOHNSTON Athens-​based emo musician whose songs bridge

the conversational songwriter fare of now and the hooky guitar based music of the past. Georgia Theatre 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). SOLD OUT! www.georgiatheatre.com AVERY ANNA Singer-​songwriter from Flagstaff, AZ who found fame through internet virality and makes music inspired by country, rock and acoustic pop. JAID JOICE Nashville-​based singer songwriter blending rock, country, blues and soul. Hendershot’s Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $20 (adv.), $25. www.hendershotsathens.com LAMONT LANDERS BAND Soul, rock and roll and R&B musician whose songs are filled with raw, undeniable truth shaped by a quiet rise from small-​town Alabama to the spotlight. CODY MATLOCK Singer-​songwriter from Atlanta whose music is shaped by the soulful sounds of the South. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. $75–129 (discount w/ UGA ID). pac.uga.edu ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Performing George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, which blends jazz and classical styles to capture the vibrant spirit of two iconic American cities with deep musical heritage, Charleston and New York. Hugh Hodgson School of Music Edge Hall. 7:30 p.m. FREE! music. uga.edu GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring saxophonist Gabriel Piqué. Normaltown Brewing Co. 6–10 p.m. FREE! www.instagram. com/normaltownbrewingco MAYDA Singer-​songwriter and multi-​instrumentalist playing R&B-​ infused pop, funk and soul. JULIA VERSE Local singer-​songwriter and multi-​instrumentalist. LUCASSETTE Alternative Americana songwriter from San Diego. Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.instagram.com/nowherebarathensga LA SUEGRA Latino reggae punk band formed in Atlanta in 2007. The Root Aubrey Entertainment Presents. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.therootathens.com BRANDON SEARS BAND Playing Southern rock jams. Southern Drawl Bar & Grille 5–10 p.m. www.southerndrawlbarandgrille.com KARAOKE Every Friday night.

Saturday 24 Akins Ford Arena 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $45.50–122.75. www.classiccenter.com JON PARDI Country singer-​songwriter signed to Capitol Nashville. ALEXANDRA KAY Country musicians for fans of Dolly Parton, Alison Kraus and Leanne Womack. SADIE BASS Nashville singer-​ songwriter with small-​town grit. Athentic Brewing Co. 8 p.m. $10. www.athenticbrewing.com NOCHE DE BAILE MR. CLAHVAY, TIMBAthens and SALSAthens host a

monthly dance social with the latest Latin music. The Bridge Community Church Rhythm & Arts Festival. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ share/1Fe4APtxnL TROPICAL BREEZE STEEL BAND Island rhythms, rock and roll, jazz and more brought together by Leigh Smith and and Dr. Tony McCutchen. ANDREANA Musician born and raised in Harlem, NY who is also a member of Aquatic Soul Band. CLASSIC CITY ALLSTARS Duo performance from Will Shine and Gnarly G. KEVIN FLEMING Fingerstyle guitar expert who has been playing music for over 30 years. THE LUCKY JONES Band started by Brian Crum in 2011 playing a variety of danceable music from classic blues, R&B, soul, rockabilly and more. Ciné Costume Party. 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10. www.athenscine.com DOG IN A HUMAN COSTUME Alternative rock band based out of Alpharetta and influenced by acts like The Pixies, Radiohead and Queens Of The Stone Age. FOIL FOR A FILM Atlanta-​based alternative band. EVEY MAY Indie alternative band with post-​punk and shoegaze influences. College Square Plaza SquareFest. 7 p.m. FREE! www.downtownathensga.org BTBTE Local five-​piece ’90s tribute band covering Matchbox Twenty, Oasis, Hootie & the Blowfish, Gin Blossoms, Goo Goo Dolls and more. Dead Beat Club 8 p.m. $12 (adv), $15. www.deadbeatathens.com GAZEE The shoegaze-​pop project Natalie Newbold of Well Wisher and The Front Bottoms. HUNLO Electrified, soulful artist with a soft, inspiring sound. ALEX JETT Local indie rock singer-​songwriter delivering a wide-​range of emotionally charged vocals. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com SLUDGE INCORPORATED Sci-​fi performance art and “clown punk” collective facilitating a community-​ centered space for expression of existential dread by positioning the audience as the citizens of Sludge City. DRÍ AND THE VIOLENCE Project of singer, percussionist and songwriter Adriana Thomas. NICHOLAS MALLIS AND THE BOREALIS Local synth-​pop act claiming a diverse array of supposed corporate sponsors. Flying Squid Comedy Scorpio Season Spectacular Show. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $15. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com BLUE STARS Side project formed by four musicians from different corners of the Athens music scene: Claire Campbell, Andrea DeMarcus, Joe Rowe and Dan Nettles. FABULOUS BIRD The longtime lo-​fi indie-​rock project of Athens songwriter and multi-​instrumentalist Peter Alvanos, also known as the drummer for Elf Power.

FATHER DEMO Over a decade of writing together for Athens pop mainstays Modern Skirts, Jay Gulley and JoJo Glidewell amassed a somewhat legendary folder of early song sketches known as the “Father Demo.” Front Porch Bookstore 6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook THE HUMDINGERS Acoustic interpretations of pop and soul. Georgia Theatre 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). SOLD OUT! www.georgiatheatre.com SUGAR Alternative rock band originally active between 1992 and early 1995 and reformed in 2025, composed of singer and guitarist Bob Mould, bassist David Barbe and drummer Malcolm Travis. J. ROBBINS Musician and producer known for his work in post-​ hardcore band Jawbox. Hendershot’s Rouge Magazine Percentage Night. 6–11 p.m. $10. www.hendershotsathens.com LAS VELAS Nostalgic Latin music revived. CRIMSON FEVER Free spirited indie band that makes danceable music. Hugh Hodgson School of Music Edge Hall. 7:30 p.m. FREE! music. uga.edu GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring the Fowler-​Mrofchak Guitar Duo. No. 3 Railroad Street 6 p.m. www.3railroad.org TRACY & JEFF Jazz, blues and new and old classics from the voice of Tracy Brown and the guitar and harmonica of Jeff Lustig. Nowhere Bar Sugar After-​Party. 9:30 p.m. $10 (Sugar attendees), $15. www.instagram.com/nowherebarathensga ZDOG DJing hidden gems. CRAZIER Indie-​rock anti-​cowboy music featuring Eli Raps, Winston Barbe, Alex Dillon and Kevin Cregge. LAZY HORSE A tribute to Neil Young. RSVP for Location House Show & Market. 3–10 p.m. www.instagram.com/misfit_merchant MARCEL SLETTEN California-​born and Athens-​based electronic music producer, composer and artist playing a DJ set. WUOG DJS DJs from UGA’s college radio station spin tunes. CLAYTON FORSTEN Local musician. SCHMOOZE Alternative rock band from Athens with a sound blending ’90s grunge with modern punk and indie rock influences. ASYMPTOMATICS Rambunctious indie-​rock party ensemble that dips into post-​punk, funk and even psychedelic folk rock.

Sunday 25 Athentic Brewing Co. 5–8 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com VINYL NIGHT Every fourth Sunday bring your favorite records for the DJ to spin. Boutier Winery Wine Down. 3–5 p.m. www.boutierwinery.com RAIL TOWN Performing ’70s soft

rock, Americana, country, pop and current tunes. The Classic Center 6:30 p.m. $30 & up. www.classiccenter.com ATHENS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Performing a live score to the classic 1931 movie Frankenstein. Colbert-​Benton Guest House Acoustic Autumn. 2–6 p.m. $35 (ages 16 & up), $20 (ages 15 & under), FREE! (ages under 5). www.project-​ safe.org COMER STRING COLLECTIVE Playing that jingle jangle old-​time string music. CONNOR LAWLEY Singer-​ songwriter and acoustic guitarist blending the soulful echoes of classic rock and country with a fresh, young energy. TAYLOR GRIFFITH Musician combining the bar-​stool honesty of country and the raw grit of blues. The Globe 4–7 p.m. www.facebook.com/globe. athens TRADITIONAL IRISH SESSION Easy listening traditional Irish music. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 3 p.m. $65–129 (discount w/ UGA ID). pac.uga.edu HILARY HAHN, MATTHIAS GOERNE AND GLORIA CHIEN Three-​time Grammy Award-​winning violinist Hilary Hahn, German baritone Matthias Goerne and acclaimed pianist Gloria Chien unite for a special collaborative performance. Oak House Distillery 4–6:30 p.m. www.oakhousedistillery. com GREG CLINTON Solo set by the guitarist for RiffNotes. RSVP for Location Attaboy Presents. 3–7 p.m. (art market), 6 p.m. (show). FREE! www. instagram.com/attaboytapes JOSEY Athens-​based indie pop artist, incorporating audience participation and off-​kilter comedy into her sets. Redline 7 p.m. $5. www.instagram.com/redline_athens BEAT UP Local punks resisting the darkest timeline. SLEEP CLUB Atmospheric alt-​gaze experience for fans of Title Fight, Greet Death and Deftones on tour from Denver. MIRROR MOVE Blurs the crushing ambience of shoegaze with the ethereal shimmer of dreampop. LA CIGARETTE Combines the riffs and rhythms of hard rock with an explosive punk ethos that is impossible to ignore. The World Famous 8:30 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show). $10. www.facebook.com/theworldfamousathens SWEETBREADS NYC-​based singer-​songwriter Melody Stolpp blends indie folk and alt-​country into emotionally rich songs with sharp storytelling. EMILEIGH IRELAND Athens-​based multi-​instrumentalist, vocalist, artist and veteran music educator known for her dark folk pop. JACQUELINE HACKETT Brooklyn-​based singer-​songwriter with a nostalgic, slow burning sound that touches on the themes of love and loss.

Monday 26 Normaltown Brewing Co. 6:30 p.m. (sign-​ups), 7–9 p.m. (show). FREE! www.normaltownbrewingco.com MONDAY FUNDAY FUNK JAM

Will Shine hosts this open jam with a house band made up of rotating local musicians. Ramsey Hall 5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu UGA BASSOON ENSEMBLE Performing “A Halloween Bassoon Spooktacular!” Ramsey Hall 7:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu GUEST ARTIST RECITAL Featuring pianist Evan Mitchell.

Tuesday 27 Daily Groceries Co-​op Tuesday Tunes. 6–7:30 p.m. www. instagram.com/dailycoop MADDY AZELLE Indie folk singer-​ songwriter. JIM WILLINGHAM Local folk rock singer-​songwriter (Dim Watts, Burly Ivy) exploring themes of comedy and tragedy. Flicker Theatre & Bar Primordial Void Presents. 8 p.m. $10 (adv.), $12. www.flickertheatreandbar.com CHEVROLET PILE Jason Miller’s crunchy western twang project. WEAVER The project of Atlanta musician Bradley Gaines Weaver, whose self-​titled album is a deeply psychedelic collection that recalls the finest moments of Cut Worms, the Woodsist catalog or even ’70s McCartney. JONES MURPHY Singer of ’90s Nashville act The Lounge Flounders. Hendershot’s 5–7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com PIANO BAR HAPPY HOUR Enjoy drink specials and live piano music. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. SOLD OUT! pac.uga.edu “THE PRESIDENT’S OWN” UNITED STATES MARINE BAND The oldest continuously active professional music organization in the United States performing a mix of works including traditional band repertoire, Sousa marches, contemporary compositions, vocal and instrumental solos and a patriotic salute to the Armed Forces. Normal Bar 8–11 p.m. www.instagram.com/normal_bar_athens OPEN MIC Live music from talented local musicians, hosted on Tuesdays by Rudy Montayre. WUOG Live in the Lobby. 8 p.m. FREE! www. wuog.org THE BAND FRUITION New vintage groove band based in Atlanta.

Wednesday 28 Amici at The Falls 6 p.m. www.facebook.com/amiciatthefalls CAM NORTON Covers and originals in the vein of rock, folk, bluegrass and country. Athentic Brewing Co. 7–10 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com KARAOKE WITH DJ GREGORY Second and fourth Wednesdays. Ciné 7 p.m. (doors). FREE! www.athenscine.com QUEZZY POET Athens hip-​hop artist with a modern sound. Album release show! MOTORHEAD2X Athens rapper with a story to tell that still knows how to start a party. 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 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $26.44. www.georgiatheatre.com MAGOO Progressive bluegrass quartet from Colorado known for their improvisational live shows and genre-​blending sound. SUNS OF STARS High-​flying psychedelic bluegrass band from Western North Carolina that blends traditional bluegrass music with a unique, improvisational prowess. Hendershot’s New Faces Night. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com SARAH BUKOWSKI Indie-​rock musician who just released debut single “Chasing Clues.” ORION DEREVERE Local guitarist and singer-​songwriter who’s been playing music since childhood. ANA MOWRER Musician known for playing in local indie-​jazz band Evergreen. COY CAMPBELL Essayist, songwriter and double bassist. Hidden Gem 9 p.m. & 10 p.m. $10 suggested donation. www.instagram.com/ hiddengemglobalhq KENOSHA KID The brainchild of guitarist Dan Nettles, performing October Book Part II. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. $3 (w/ UGA ID), $15. music.uga.edu UGA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Performing Schubert’s Symphony No. 3 and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall Piedmont Athens Regional Performances for Young People. 10 a.m. pac.uga.edu MEMBERS OF “THE PRESIDENT’S OWN” UNITED STATES MARINE BAND A small group from the oldest continuously active professional music organization in the United States performing engaging music and stories that introduce students to the instruments of the wind band, the daily life of a professional performer and the important role music plays in public service and American history. Ramsey Hall 5:30 p.m. FREE! music.uga.edu UGA TUBA/EUPHONIUM ENSEMBLE Graduate and undergraduate low brass students play serious original compositions, transcriptions of orchestral literature and lighter arrangements.

Down the Line 10/29 MrJordanMrTonks (Hotel Indigo) 10/29 Mary & The Hot Hotty-​Hots (The Globe) 10/29 PNKYDWN, Strict #9, Seeking Approval (Dead Beat Club) 10/30 Karaoke (Southern Drawl Bar & Grille) 10/30 Shansylvania (Dead Beat Club) 10/31 Camp Amped After School Fall Finale (Nuçi’s Space) 11/01 Folie à Quatre (ACC Library) 11/01 Folie à Cinq (ACC Library) 11/01 Jim Cook (Terrapin Beer Co.) 11/01 Traditional Irish Session (The Globe) 11/02 First Mondays Open Mic (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 11/02 Monday Funday Funk Jam (Normaltown Brewing Co.) 11/03 Piano Bar Happy Hour (Hendershot’s) 11/03 Open Mic Night (Athentic Brewing Co.) 11/03 Nightout (WUOG) 11/04 Dr. Fred’s Karaoke (Flicker Theatre & Bar) f

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Linea de crisis, las 24 horas del dia OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Tuesday 20

event calendar

COMEDY: Take This! Improv (Athentic Brewing Co.) The troupe will perform improv skits based on “Scooby-​Doo.” 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 EVENTS: Mokah Speaks Live (Hendershot’s) Live podcast discussion about politics and mental health with special guest Pamela Delancy, running for Georgia’s 10th Congressional district. 6 p.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com FILM: Brews & Boos Movie Series (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of Practical Magic. 7 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici at The Falls) Test your trivia knowledge with host Miles Bunch. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/ baddogathens GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Paloma Park) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddog​ athens GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Winghouse Grill Hull) Test your general trivia knowledge. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: UnPhiltered Trivia (Mellow Mushroom) Test your trivia knowledge with host Phil. 7 p.m. www. facebook.com/MellowMushroom​ Athens GAMES: Singo! (Beef O’Brady’s) Win gift certificates and prizes at this music bingo night. Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. www.beefobradys.com/athens GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Magnolias of Athens) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccitytriviaco KIDSTUFF: Cryptid Terrarium (Oconee County Library) Create your own spooky terrarium with all materials provided. Ages 12 & up. Registration required. 4:00 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart LECTURES & LIT: Athentic Book Club (Athentic Brewing Co.) Discuss Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo with the group. 6 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com MEETINGS: Women Who Work Speed Networking (Tapped Athens Wine Market) Connect with local leaders and business owners in the community. 5:30–7:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/kickathwomen SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org THEATER: The Music Man (The Classic Center) The Tony Award-​ winning musical comedy about a fast-​talking traveling salesman who becomes an upright citizen of a charming small town. Oct. 20–21, 7:30 p.m. $34–125. www.classic​ center.com

Wednesday 21 ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-​in public tours feature highlights of the permanent

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collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgia​museum.org EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net FILM: History Film Series (221 Leconte Hall) Screening of the 1973 horror classic The Exorcist. 5 p.m. FREE! history.uga.edu FILM: Three Star Cinema (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1995 horror film Children of the Corn 3. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker​ theatreandbar.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: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzu​ nottrivia GAMES: 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: Trivia Night (Hotel Indigo) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.indigo​ athens.com 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 (Dos Palmas) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunot​ trivia 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. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia 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

F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

THEATER: The Music Man (The Classic Center) The Tony Award-​ winning musical comedy about a fast-​talking traveling salesman who becomes an upright citizen of a charming small town. Oct. 20–21, 7:30 p.m. $34–125. www.classic​ center.com

Thursday 22 ART: Teen Studio: Art Heist (Georgia Museum of Art) Explore the galleries and make art inspired by the exhibitions. Ages 13–18. Email to RSVP. 5:30–8 p.m. FREE! gmoa-​ tours@uga.edu ART: Opening Reception (ATHICA) The national juried exhibition “Everything” will be on view. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athica.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

GAMES: Adult TTRPG (Bogart Library) All skill levels can join for Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role playing games. Ages 18 & up. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Terrapin Beer Co.) Test your trivia knowledge. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: 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: LEGO Builder’s Challenge (Oconee County Library) Drop in to complete challenges and earn prizes. Ages 5–12. Fourth Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/oconee

Fiber works by needle worker Torreah “Cookie” Washington are on view at the Lyndon House Arts Center. An artist reception will be held Oct. 24 from 4–5 p.m. COMEDY: Shelly Belly (Georgia Theatre) Comedian known for her skits on social media. 8 p.m. $45.73–$57.44. www.georgia​ theatre.com EVENTS: Books for Keeps Book Fair (420 Athena Drive) Every day visitors can take 100 children’s books for free. Oct. 22–23, 2–6 p.m. Oct. 18 & 24, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.booksforkeeps.org EVENTS: Tricks, Treats & Trunks (YWCO) Enjoy festive games, crafts, a costume contest, music and a spooky walking trail. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.ywco.org EVENTS: Walk Thru Boo (Lay Park Community Center) Join an outside spooky walk full of live zombies, ghouls and ghosts. 7–8 p.m. FREE! www.accgovga.myrec.com FILM: House on Haunted Hill (UGA Special Collections Library) GAMES: Bad Dog BINGO (Amici at The Falls) Play BINGO with host TJ Wayt. Thursdays, 6 p.m. www. instagram.com/baddogathens

KIDSTUFF: Chapter Chat (Oconee County Library) This month’s chat will feature The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brailler with quizzes, trivia, snacks and more. Ages 8–12. 4:30​​ p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/ bogart LECTURES & LIT: Across The Board Book Club (Oconee County Library) Discuss books chosen by the group. New members welcome. Fourth Thursdays, 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee LECTURES & LIT: Listening in the Dark (ACC Library) Join local storytellers for a variety of original spooky tales. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org LECTURES & LIT: Athens Science Café (Foxglove Plantbar) Dr. Karl Lechtreck will discuss how cilia control our body. 7 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/athens​science​ cafe 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 1:30 p.m. info@athenspetanque. org, www.athenspetanque.org SPORTS: Topgolf Live Stadium Series (Sanford Stadium) Play Topgolf in bays set up on the football field, with special access to the recruiting lounge and West Endzone Plaza. Oct. 22, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Oct. 23, 3:30–8 p.m. Oct. 24, 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, 9 a.m.–8:30 p.m. www.georgiadogs. evenue.net THEATER: These Shining Lives (Westclox) Based on true events of the 1920s, this outdoor play follows the female employees of the Radium Dial Company as they navigate life and the consequences of corporate negligence. Oct. 22–25. 8 p.m. $10. www.agatheatre.com

Friday 23 CLASSES: Halloween Mixology (Classic Citiva Eastside) Learn how to create a Halloween-​themed THC-​infused beverage. Costumes encouraged. Registration required. Ages 21 & up. 7:30 p.m. $20. www.classiccitiva.com COMEDY: Improv Athens (UGA Miller Learning Center) UGA’s improv troupe performs a show. Room 248. Fridays, 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/improv​ athens COMEDY: Anthony Jeselnik (The Classic Center) The critically acclaimed stand-​up comedian performs his new tour Wrath of Man. 7:30 p.m. $10. www.classiccenter. com EVENTS: Books for Keeps Book Fair (420 Athena Drive) Every day visitors can take 100 children’s books for free. Oct. 22–23, 2–6 p.m. Oct. 18 & 24, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.booksforkeeps.org EVENTS: Fall Festival (Clarke County Sheriff’s Office Training Center) The Clarke County Sheriff’s Office 5th annual festival features games, activities, community vendors, a haunted house, haunted hayride and more. 5​​–9 p.m. www. facebook.com/clarkecosheriff EVENTS: Death & Mourning Tour (Historic Athens Welcome Center) Visit the oldest surviving house in Athens and learn about traditional mourning customs of the early 1800s during a guided tour. Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 5:30–6:30 p.m. $20. www.athenswelcomecenter. com EVENTS: Trick or Treat (Athens Academy) Dress up and trick or treat at the track. All ages. 5–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.athensacademy.org EVENTS: Bats Night Out (Dudley Park) Learn about local bat populations and take a guided hike to visit the park’s bat houses. 6 p.m. $3 (ACC resident), $5 (non-​resident). www.accgovga.myrec.com FILM: The Elephant 6 Recording Co. (Ciné) Screening of the documentary about the ’90s rock collective with a Q&A in celebration of Olivia Tremor Control’s final album release. 5:30 p.m. $12. www.athens​ cine.com

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/shihtzunot​ trivia GAMES: Spooky Trivia Night (Foxglove Plantbar) Test your Halloween-​themed knowledge and dress in costume for a drink discount. 8 p.m. FREE! www.foxgloveplantbar.com LECTURES & LIT: Author Reading (The Athenaeum) Authors Julia Elliott and Joshua Garcia will read from their works and sign books. 6 p.m. FREE! athenaeum.uga.edu PERFORMANCE: DanceATHENS 2026 (Morton Theatre) This annual celebration unifies the dance communities of Alabama, South Carolina and Georgia. Oct. 23, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24, 4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $13–16. www.mortontheatre.com SPORTS: Topgolf Live Stadium Series (Sanford Stadium) Play Topgolf in bays set up on the football field, with special access to the recruiting lounge and West Endzone Plaza. Oct. 22, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Oct. 23, 3:30–8 p.m. Oct. 24, 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, 9 a.m.–8:30 p.m. www.georgiadogs. evenue.net SPORTS: Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Macon Mayhem (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 7:05 p.m. $31– 52.75. www.classiccenter.com THEATER: Steel Magnolias (The Stage Oconee) The Stage Oconee presents the beloved story about a group of Southern women’s friendships and struggles. Oct. 23 & 24, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 & 25, 2 p.m. $17–22. www.thestageoconee.com THEATER: These Shining Lives (Westclox) Based on true events of the 1920s, this outdoor play follows the female employees of the Radium Dial Company as they navigate life and the consequences of corporate negligence. Oct. 22–25. 8 p.m. $10. www.agatheatre.com THEATER: Eloise Kestrel: Artist, Oracle, Mystic (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown Players present this original play about the untimely death of a renown artist. Oct. 23–24, 8 p.m. Oct. 25, 2 p.m. $10. www.townandgownplayers.org

Saturday 24 ART: Opening Reception (Lyndon House Arts Center) Works by fiber artist Torreah “Cookie” Washington will be on view. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/lyndonhouse ART: Opening Reception (Tiger’s Eye Gallery) Athens artist David Hale’s exhibition “The Lord Knows When You Are Trying” will be on view. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.tigers​ eyegallery.com CLASSES: The Magic of Matisse (Steffen Thomas Museum of Art) Create your own still life with loose brushwork and bold colors while learning more about Matisse as an artist. Registration required. 12 p.m. $65. www.steffenthomas.org CLASSES: Hands-​on Printing Session (Tiger’s Eye Gallery) David Hale will lead a workshop using his hand-​carved linoleum printing blocks to print on fabric brought

in by participants. 2–5 p.m. $10. www.tigerseyegallery.com EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Bishop Park) Markets offer locally grown groceries and handmade goods with live music and children’s activities. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent. Saturdays, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. www.athensfarmers​ market.net EVENTS: Fall Fun Day (St. Joseph Catholic Church) There will be a craft bazaar, bake sale, food truck, car show and more. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. www.stjosephathens.com 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: Flavors of Fall Festival (Farmview Market) This annual festival kicks off the fall harvest season with live music, crafts, a petting zoo and more. 9 a.m.​​–2 p.m. FREE! www.farmviewmarket.com EVENTS: Books for Keeps Book Fair (420 Athena Drive) Every day visitors can take 100 children’s books for free. Oct. 22–23, 2–6 p.m. Oct. 18 & 24, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.booksforkeeps.org EVENTS: Solar Barn Raising (Micah’s Creek Neighborhood) A community event where participants can learn about solar energy and help install solar panels. 10 a.m. FREE! www.brighthomesenergy.org EVENTS: Rhythm & Arts Festival (The Bridge Community Church) Browse local vendors and enjoy live music with food trucks, face painting and more. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/share/ 1Fe4APtxnL EVENTS: SquareFest (College Square Plaza) A community festival

marking official grand reopening of the newly redesigned College Square pedestrian plaza. 11 a.m. (ribbon cutting) 1–4 p.m. (activities), 7 p.m. (show). FREE! www. downtownathensga.org EVENTS: Athens-​Oconee Community Health Fair (1047 Summit Grove Dr.) There will be free health screenings, a chance to meet with local providers and resources for all types of health needs. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.windercna.com EVENTS: Crow Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Browse items from local artisans and vendors, make Halloween crafts, and enjoy booth trick or treating and a costume contest. 1–6 p.m. www.athentic​ brewing.com EVENTS: Harvest Festival (Madison Morgan Cultural Center) Celebrate fall with live music, local artists, food trucks and more. 4–9 p.m. $50 (general admission), $75 (VIP). www.mmcc-​arts.org GAMES: Day of Board Game Demostrations (Tyche’s Games) Drop-​ in and try new games. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychegames.com GAMES: Plant Bingo (Foxglove Plantbar) Learn more about plants, and win plant prizes. Reservation required. 7 p.m. $20. www.instagram.com/foxgloveplantbar KIDSTUFF: Storytime (Rec Room Books) Enjoy a morning of storytelling with Rachel. 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ recroombooks KIDSTUFF: Twilight Trivia (Oconee County Library) Put your Twilight book and movie knowledge to the test. Ages 12 & up. 4 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee OUTDOORS: Rivers Alive (Dudley Park) Join the annual Georgia Waterway Cleanup as part of the largest single volunteer effort to beautify Georgia’s water resources. 9 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.accgov. com/riversalive PERFORMANCE: DanceATHENS 2026 (Morton Theatre) This annual celebration unifies the dance communities of Alabama, South Carolina and Georgia. Oct. 23, 7:30

art around town ACC LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) In the Bogue Gallery, the exhibition “Hers and His” features paintings and drawings by Cynzia Sanchez and works created with found objects by Edward Toledano. Through Nov. 1. • Paintings by Dana Johns will be on view for November. AMICI AT THE FALLS (8851 Macon Hwy.) “Bulldawg Season” features UGA football themed works by Camille Hayes. Through October. ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) “Megan Ledbetter: The Field (2022–2026)” features photographs of a historic municipal cemetery in Red Bank, TN that was in operation from 1890–1912. Through Nov. 21. • “Erin Johnson: The Measure is Something Else” is the first survey exhibition of work by the artist and filmmaker, exploring ecology, science, nationalism and queer worldmaking through film and installation. Through Mar. 20, 2027. ATHENS COTTON PRESS (149 Oneta St.) “Making Place,” presented by Artful Hands, features pottery including six works by 19th-​century enslaved potter David Drake, as well as iron works by blacksmith Patrick G. Blount. Opening reception Nov. 2, 6–8 p.m. Gallery talk with Pat Shields Nov. 6, 2–4 p.m. On view daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Nov. 2–12. ATHENTIC BREWING CO. (108 Park Ave.) Impressionist paintings inspired by nature by Rachel Ankirskiy are on view through November. ATHICA (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1200) “Everything” is a National Juried Exhibition featuring works made from unexpected materials and juried by Philip McClure. Opening reception Oct. 22, 6–8 p.m. Through Nov. 22. ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Coloring Book: It’s All Beautiful Now” features whimsical and surreal paintings and drawings by Joel Cothran derived from his sketchbooks. Through Oct. 25. AURUM STUDIOS (125 E. Clayton St.) “Botanicals and Animals” features paintings by Judy Hammond. Through December. BMA STUDIO (1354 S. Milledge Ave.) Floral paintings by Caroline Stroud are on display and available for purchase. Through November. DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) In the West Gallery, “Runner Up” features multimedia works by Victoria Dugger, recipient of the 2026 Margie E. West Alumni Prize, which examines Black girlhood, disability and the Southern Gothic. Through Nov. 20. • In the Lupin Foundation Gallery, “Cornucopia: Ties That Bind” is a curated collection of works by renowned artists of color.

p.m. Oct. 24, 4 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $13–16. www.mortontheatre.com SPORTS: Topgolf Live Stadium Series (Sanford Stadium) Play Topgolf in bays set up on the football field, with special access to the recruiting lounge and West Endzone Plaza. Oct. 22, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Oct. 23, 3:30–8 p.m. Oct. 24, 10 a.m.– 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, 9 a.m.–8:30 p.m. www.georgiadogs.evenue.net THEATER: Steel Magnolias (The Stage Oconee) The Stage Oconee presents the beloved story about a group of Southern women’s friendships and struggles. Oct. 23 & 24, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 & 25, 2 p.m. $17–22. www.thestageoconee.com THEATER: These Shining Lives (Westclox) Based on true events of the 1920s, this outdoor play follows the female employees of the Radium Dial Company as they navigate life and the consequences of corporate negligence. Oct. 22–25. 8 p.m. $10. www.agatheatre.com THEATER: Eloise Kestrel: Artist, Oracle, Mystic (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown Players present this original play about the untimely death of a renown artist. Oct. 23–24, 8 p.m. Oct. 25, 2 p.m. $10. www.townandgownplayers.org

Sunday 25 COMEDY: Funny Femmes (The Globe) An all-​femme showcase featuring comedians from Athens and Atlanta. Fourth Sundays, 9 p.m. $10. www.globetavern.com EVENTS: Vulture Festival (ACC Landfill Outdoor Classroom) Learn about nature’s clean-​up crew and ACC’s landfill property. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/ stormwater EVENTS: VFW First Responders Appreciation BBQ (VFW Post 2872) Celebrate first responders and their families with barbecue, refreshments, dunk tank, Fire Department ladder truck display and more. Donations welcome. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. www.facebook.com/ AthensVFWPost2872

EVENTS: ESP Big Jump Festival (Skydive Monroe) The nonprofit’s annual festival where attendees can watch skydivers jump, enjoy kidfriendly activities, browse venues and learn more about the organization. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $5/person, $20/family. www.espyouandme.org EVENTS: Abnormal Bazaar (Indie South) This market features vendors selling soaps, jewelry, vintage, vinyl and more. 12–4 p.m. www. theindiesouth.com EVENTS: Sunday Slowdown (Georgia Museum of Art) A variety of programs dedicated to art and mindfulness including meditation, tai chi, restorative yoga, mandala workshop and more. 1–5 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org EVENTS: 1800s Athens (Historic Athens Welcome Center) This living history event features blacksmithing, spinning and weaving, folk music and more. RSVP encouraged. 2–5 p.m. FREE! www.athens​welcome​ center.com EVENTS: Acoustic Autumn (Colbert-​Benton Guest House) Enjoy food, beverages, live music and a silent auction in benefit of Project Safe. 2–6 p.m. $35 (ages 16 & up), $20 (ages 15 & under), FREE! (ages under 5). www.project-​safe. org EVENTS: Beyond the Gates (Oconee Hill Cemetery) Take a twilight walking tour around some of the most historic graves in Athens. 6 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.facebook.com/athenshistorical​ society FILM: Frankenstein (The Classic Center) Screening of the classic 1931 movie with live music performed by members of the Athens Symphony Orchestra. 6:30 p.m. $30 & up. www.classiccenter.com GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Globe) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 4 p.m. & 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/baddogathens GAMES: General Knowledge Trivia (Normaltown Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Sundays, 4–6 p.m. www.normaltown​ brewingco.com

Through Nov. 6. • In the Plaza Gallery, “True Conceal” is an exhibition of new work by collaborators Katie Hargrave and Meredith Lynn from their Bad Outdoorsman series. Through Nov. 6. • In the Mills Family Gallery, “Through Service We Grow” is a new body of work by Dodd photography faculty Blake Jacobsen. Through Nov. 6. • In the Bridge Gallery, “I hope this finds you well” explores methods of communicating and working together. Through Nov. 6. FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Annual Halloween art show featuring various local artists. Through October. GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “Edmonia Lewis: Said in Stone” features sculptures by the 19th-​century Black and Indigenous artist Edmonia Lewis. Through Jan. 3, 2027. HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) “Transitions & Constructs” features works by Susan Pelham, Ella & Belle, Juancho Cano, and Marisa Leilani Mustard of surreal landscapes and whimsical animal characters. Through October. HISTORIC ATHENS WELCOME CENTER (280 E. Dougherty St.) Photography of Southern cemeteries and funerary art by Jennifer Keane and Caitlin Short are on display. Through October. LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.). In the Middle Gallery, fiber works by fourth-​generation needle worker Torreah “Cookie” Washington feature quilts and rag baskets that reflect African-​American tradition. Reception Oct. 24, 4–5 p.m. Through Oct. 27. • Solo exhibition by Francie Carson. Oct. 29–Jan. 2, 2027. • In the Lobby Case, “Lotus” features ceramics by Isabell Daniel incorporating the Buddhist mandala and the symbolic lotus flower. Through Dec. 5. • In the Lukasiewicz Gallery, “Refusal of the Call” pairs Sarah Flinn’s large-​scale landscape paintings with Eleanor Foy’s ceramic animal sculptures. Opening reception Oct. 29, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Artist talk with Flinn Dec. 10, 5:30 p.m. Through Jan. 2, 2027. • “Rooted” features works by Clarke County School District students inspired by the theme of community. Through Jan. 13, 2027. • “BEE CITY OF NOW” is a 24-​foot model community for bees by Swannatopia and Experimental Art Club, installed on the Arts Center’s second-​floor outdoor patio. Through May 1, 2027. MADISON-​MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 South Main Street, Madison) In celebration of the center’s 50th anniversary, the exhibition “experience and intersection” features works by John Cleaveland and the late Richard Olsen. Through October. OCAF (34 School St., Watkinsville) The Georgia Watercolor Society’s 2026 Annual Member Juried Exhibition is on view alongside watercolor pieces by

OUTDOORS: Jack-​O-​Lantern Jog 5K (Sandy Creek Nature Center) A Halloween-​themed Goblin Fun Run and 5K benefitting Sandy Creek Nature Center. Costumes encouraged. 2 p.m. (Fun Run), 2:30 p.m. (5K). $25. www.sandycreeknature​ centerinc.org SPORTS: Topgolf Live Stadium Series (Sanford Stadium) Play Topgolf in bays set up on the football field, with special access to the recruiting lounge and West Endzone Plaza. Oct. 22, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Oct. 23, 3:30–8 p.m. Oct. 24, 10 a.m.– 8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, 9 a.m.–8:30 p.m. www.georgiadogs.evenue.net SPORTS: UGA Ice Dawgs vs. Boston College (Akins Ford Arena) Cheer on the home team in this hockey match. 1 p.m. (doors), 2 p.m. (game). $10.25–34. www. classiccenter.com SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org THEATER: Steel Magnolias (The Stage Oconee) The Stage Oconee presents the beloved story about a group of Southern women’s friendships and struggles. Oct. 23 & 24, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 & 25, 2 p.m. $17–22. www.thestageoconee.com THEATER: Eloise Kestrel: Artist, Oracle, Mystic (Town & Gown Players) Town & Gown Players present this original play about the untimely death of a renown artist. Oct. 23–24, 8 p.m. Oct. 25, 2 p.m. $10. www.townandgownplayers.org THEATER: These Shining Lives (Westclox) Based on true events of the 1920s, this outdoor play follows the female employees of the Radium Dial Company as they navigate life and the consequences of corporate negligence. Oct. 22–25. 8 p.m. $10. www.agatheatre.com

Monday 26 CLASSES: Vietnamese Class (Oconee County Library) Instructor Martine Thy Nguyen will lead a

class on the basics of Vietnamese. 6–7 p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/oconee FILM: Vintage Movie Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of Psycho in 16 mm. 7 p.m. FREE! www. flicker​theatreandbar.como GAMES: Chess and Community (ACC Library) Drop in for open chess play to learn the game, challenge skills and engage with other enthusiasts. Mondays, 3:30–5:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Fully Loaded Pizza Kitchen (Normaltown)) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your general trivia knowledge with host Garrett. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.instagram. com/classiccitytriviaco GAMES: General Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Brett’s Backyard) Test your general trivia knowledge. Mondays, 7 p.m. www. instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Halloween Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your knowledge of all things seasonal. 7 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Grindhouse Killer Burgers) Test your trivia knowledge with host Benjamin. Mondays, 7:30 p.m. www. instagram.com/classiccity​triviaco KIDSTUFF: Pete the Cat (Madison Morgan Cultural Center) TheatreWorks brings the beloved blue cat to the stage for an engaging introduction to live theater. Designed for pre-​K through 3rd grade. 9:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. www.mmcc-​arts.org LECTURES & LIT: Torrance Lecture (UGA Chapel) Po-​Shen Loh will present on “Building a Thought Full World: Creativity + Love of Humanity.” 4 p.m. FREE! coe.uga. edu/directory/torrance-​center LECTURES & LIT: Last Monday Book Group (Contact for Location or Zoom Link) Discuss literary ➤ continued on next page

Diana Toma. Through Nov. 6. STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Truth in Art” is a juried exhibition of pieces across a variety of mediums by MFA students. Through Nov. 21. THE OLD PAL (1320 Prince Ave.) “The Cocktail Series” features photography by Christina Howells. Meet the artist Nov. 4, 5–8 p.m. Through Nov. 7. TIGER’S EYE GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Ste. 1600) “The Lord Knows When You Are Trying” features over 550 original hand-​printed and hand-​colored linoleum block prints by Athens artist David Hale. Opening reception Oct. 24, 5–8 p.m. Through November. UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Beyond the ’96 Games: Atlanta’s Olympic Legacy” features an original torch from the opening relay and other authentic memorabilia. Through October. • “Seeking Intrinsic Essence, Whatever Direction: The Photography of Nancy Ellison” features portraits and behind-​the-​scenes photographs of Hollywood celebrities from the 1970s–1990s. Through Dec. 23. • “Game. Set. Match: The History of UGA Women’s Tennis” shares the 100-​year history of women’s tennis at UGA. Through April 2027. UGA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (230 River Rd.) In the Lobby Gallery is “Antiques” by Margaret Morrison featuring large canvas works depicting scenes from her visits to Italian antique markets. Through January 2027. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP (780 Timothy Rd.) “Mystery Pet Portrait” features portraits of community members’ pets painted by artists from the congregation. Through Nov. 6. WINTERVILLE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER (371 N. Church St., Winterville) In the Foyer Gallery, “Detention Of Empathy” will feature portrait paintings by Laura Floyd depicting people who have faced detention by ICE agents. Through October. • In Gallery 1, “UGA MFA Invitational 2026” exhibits works curated by Yu-​Kai Lin with selected works by current MFA students. Through Dec. 15. • In Gallery 2, “Small Works: 2026 National Juried Competition” returns with small scale contemporary works selected by juror Yu-​Kai Lin. Through Dec. 15. • In the Garden Gallery Case, ceramic pieces by Lindsay Swan are on display. Through Dec. 15. • In the Long Gallery, “In a Moon Age Daydream” features paintings by Katie Brick • In the Music Room Gallery, “Through An Open Window” exhibits works in collaboration with Project Safe. Through October. • In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, “Rebellious Art, Treasonous Artists” is on view in Room 103. Through December.

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Event Calendar fiction and nonfiction online. Registration required. 7 p.m. FREE! lstiles@athenslibrary.org MEETINGS: Writers of Oconee (Jittery Joe’s Watkinsville) Writing challenges and discussions, with this meeting serving as critique day for two submissions from the group. Fourth Mondays, 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/writers​ ofoconee

Tuesday 27

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CLASSES: Video Meetings with Zoom (ACC Library) Learn how to utilize video calling and schedule meetings on your phone, tablet or laptop. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org CLASSES: Boots & Brews Line Dancing (Athentic Brewing Co.) Learn the line dancing basics from host Lindsay before the floor opens for social dancing. Fourth Tuesdays, 7–9 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com EVENTS: Halloween Carnival (Howard Park & Community Center) Enjoy carnival games, face painting, trunk or treat and more. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/halloween FILM: Brews & Boos Movie Series (Athentic Brewing Co.) Screening of Scream with special guest Love At First Fright Podcast. 7 p.m. www. athenticbrewing.com GAMES: Lunch & Learn (Tyche’s Games) Bring your lunch and learn new games. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www. tychesgames.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: 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: Mystery Book Club (Bogart Library) Discuss The Hunter by Tana French with the group. 5:30​​p.m. FREE! www.athens​ library.org/bogart PERFORMANCE: The Rocky Horror Picture Show (40 Watt Club) DanceFX presents an over-​the-​top production with its live shadow cast Eddie’s Teddies with costumes encouraged. Oct. 27–28, 7 p.m. $15. www.40watt.com SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 28 ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-​in public tours feature highlights of the permanent

continued from p. 17

collection. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgia​museum.org EVENTS: The Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, arts and crafts. Live music at 6 p.m. AFM double SNAP dollars spent. Wednesdays, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net EVENTS: Trunk or Treat (Alps Road Presbyterian Church) Enjoy festive games, crafts, snacks and trick or treating. 5:45–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.alpsroadpres.org FILM: Movie Night Reads (ACC Library) Screening of Something Wicked This Way Comes followed by a book discussion about the movie’s inspiration. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org FILM: Flicker Film Society (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1945 horror fantasy film Dead of Night. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flicker​ theatreandbar.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: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Drop in and play Shadowfist. All skill levels. 11:30 a.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (South Main Brewing) Test your trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 6 p.m. www.instagram.com/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 (Dos Palmas) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. www.instagram.com/shihtzunottrivia GAMES: Shih Tzu Not Trivia (Locos Grill and Pub Eastside) Test your general trivia knowledge. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. www.instagram.com/ shihtzunottrivia LECTURES & LIT: RIP Book Club (Hendershot’s) Casual discussions about horror-​themed books, comics and graphic novels with rotating monthly picks. 5:30​​p.m. FREE! www.ripbookclub.com MEETINGS: Film Athens (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Meet and network with others in the filmmaking community (actors, directors, etc.) during happy hour. 5 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/FilmAthens PERFORMANCE: The Rocky Horror Picture Show (40 Watt Club) DanceFX presents an over-​the-​top production with its live shadow cast Eddie’s Teddies with costumes encouraged. Oct. 27–28, 7 p.m. $15. www.40watt.com

Down the Line 10/30 Halloween Party (Treehouse Kid & Craft) f

arts & culture

calendar picks

THEATER | OCT. 22–25

These Shining Lives Westclox • 8 p.m. • $10

AGA Theater’s fall 2026 production is These Shining Lives, based on the true story of the Radium Girls. It follows female employees of the Radium Dial Co. in the 1920s as they begin slowly dying, and must navigate friendship, ambition, love and the consequences of corporate negligence. The production, directed by Peyton Harris and assistant directed by Chyra Jani, is part of AGA’s “Wedding Season,” which is split into four parts: something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. For fall 2025’s “something old” production, AGA performed a play published before 1950, and for spring 2026, the company’s “something new” was a play published after 2015. These Shining Lives is the “something borrowed” portion of the season, as it is an adaptation that borrows from an older story. For spring 2027, the season will end with “something blue,” which is open to the interpretation of the future director. Performances of These Shining Lives will be held outdoors and will move inside in the event of rain. [Mary Beth Bryan]

’90s tribute band BTBTE will close out the festivities with a performance beginning at 7 p.m. [MB] MUSIC | SAT, OCT. 24

Scorpio Season Spectacular Show

Flying Squid Comedy • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $15

Middle of Nowhere Fall Farm Party 2026 Thursday, October 22nd Parker Bennett • Dawson Scarborough Band Friday, October 23rd JoJo Palmer Chris Hampton Band Steve Bryson Band Country River Band

Saturday, October 24th Holman Autry Band Brandon Sears Band Chris Key Band Steph Maguire

Live Music Starts Daily at 5pm! 5646 Neese Commerce Road, Hull, GA • facebook.com/middleofnowherefarm

Three local bands are coming together for a bill celebrating Scorpio season. The first of these bands is Father Demo, the side project of Jay Gulley and JoJo Glidewell of Modern Skirts. The term Father Demo refers to the massive folder of song sketches that the two amassed over the course of a decade writing together, and many of these songs went on to become part of Modern

EVENT | SAT, OCT. 24

Rhythm & Arts Festival

The Bridge Community Church • 10 a.m.–4 p.m. • FREE!

The Athens Area Vendors Group’s annual Rhythm & Arts Festival is returning for a day of music, art, food and community. The group was created as a support network for Athens makers, artists, boutiques and small business owners, so the event will also feature plenty of shopping opportunities with local arts and crafts vendors. The diverse musical lineup will include island rock/jazz act Tropical Breeze Steel Band, Andreana of Aquatic Soul Band, a duo set from Will Shine and Gnarly G of Classic City Allstars, fingerstyle guitarist Kevin Fleming and blues/R&B/soul/rockabilly band The Lucky Jones. There will also be several food trucks, face painting, inflatables and more. Bringing your own lawn chair is encouraged. [MB] EVENT | SAT, OCT. 24

fabulous Bird

Skirts’ discography. The second band will be fabulous Bird, which is the lo-­fi indie-­rock project of Peter Alvanos, who is himself a Scorpio. Alvanos is otherwise known for his work as the drummer for Elf Power, and for performing and recording with a host of artists, including Peter Buck, Tobin Sprout, Robyn Hitchcock and many more. The final act for the evening will be Blue Stars, the collaborative folk pop project of Claire Campbell, Andrea DeMarcus, Joe Rowe and Dan Nettles. [MB]

SquareFest

MUSIC | SAT, OCT. 24

After several months of construction, the new and improved College Square, located on College Avenue between East Broad and East Clayton streets, is finally complete, and its transformation is being marked with a special celebration. The updates to the area include improved ADA accessibility and circulation, new paving and seating, enhanced lighting, overhead shade sails, large trees and new plantings and infrastructure designed to support future community events. The day will begin at 11 a.m. with a ribbon-­cutting ceremony and words from Athens-­Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz, Ed Lane of SPG Planners and Engineers, Christy Kovac of Sheridan Construction and David Bradley of the Athens Downtown Development Authority Board and Athens Area Chamber of Commerce. SquareFest, which will feature local partners and family-­friendly activities, will take place from 1–4 p.m. The

Dead Beat Club • 8 p.m. • $12 (adv.), $15

College Square • 11 a.m.–8 p.m. • FREE!

Gazee

Musician Natalie Newbold says that she approached her new project, Gazee, as an exercise in artistry and autonomy. Newbold’s list of collaborative credits is impressive, including playing guitar in Well Wisher, drumming in dollys and performing as a touring bassist for The Front Bottoms. All of this experience poised her to be able to write and perform every part of her upcoming record, a ’90s-­inflected work of shoegaze pop. Her introspective and poetic lyrics are as important to the compositions as her shoegazey guitars and catchy melodies. Newbold says this is what drew fans in from the start, but now everything has developed into even more sophisticated forms. The live iteration of Gazee also includes Will Brown, Lewie Diavolo and Rachel Wild. Local musicians Alex Jett and Hunlo will join Gazee for its Athens show. [MB] f

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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 NOTICES (Missed Connections) Do you remember when myself told you myself read a book on etiquette. Said myself owe you. Do you know why? Please tell me what you meant “it’s not working.” Can you call 470-​941-​8076? MUSIC (Services) Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records at corner of Clayton and College Dwntn. 706-​612-​4926 REAL ESTATE (Duplex for Rent) Lease take over for 2BD/1BA duplex near Normaltown/Boulevard area. 442 Yonah Ave. W/D, garden, parking, fireplace. $1500 month and option to renew at current rate. Available Nov.1. Text 404-​938-​ 9778. REAL ESTATE (Room for Rent) Room for rent in Watkinsville. Professional preferred. $800 a month. All inclusive. Call 706-​286-​0138 for more information. SERVICES (Home & Garden) Fall is here! Woman-​Run Gardening Services: We offer garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, per-

sonalized 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 BEGINNING FIGURE DRAWING (OCAF) All-​day workshop Jan. 16, 2027 for artists of all levels to learn nude figure drawing. Experienced UGA instructor and female professional art model teach small class. Registration is $99 with additional $15 model fee. www.drawathens. org 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 (Winterville Marigold Festival) Submit artwork to be featured on the 2027 Marigold Festival posters, T-​shirts and more. Deadline Jan. 1. www.marigold​ festival.com 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 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

ADOPT ME!

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

Mike (61810223)

When Mike first came to the shelter, he was very scared and guarded, but he’s since grown to love being around people! He’s a smart, handsome boy looking for a place to call home.

Buddy (61721035)

Buddy’s friends at the shelter say that he is super sweet, easy on a leash and knows how to sit for treats and toys. He really is a great buddy, so consider adopting or fostering him today!

Eileen (61660124)

Meet Eileen! This cutie has some special medical needs due to a leg injury, so she’s looking for the right person to take care of her. Despite her injury, she is a happy and affectionate pup!

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

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

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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 FLOATS & PERFORMERS (ACC Leisure Services) Applications are now open for the annual Downtown Parade of Lights on Dec. 3. Deadline 5 p.m., Nov. 3. $40 application fee. www.accgov.com/ parade 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 ATHENS CRUSH DANCE TEAM (Dancefx Dance Studio) The new Indoor Football League franchise has announced auditions for the team’s inaugural Athens Crush Dance Team. Performances at 8 games March–July, 2027. Auditions held Nov. 14, 1–4 p.m. $35 with pre-​registration, $50 for same-​

day registration. www.athenscrush. com/dance-​team 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 (ACC Library) Various ongoing weekly events including ESL (Wednesdays) and more. www.athenslibrary.org 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) and more. www. athenslibrary.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 (DanceFx Dance Studio) DanceFx offers a variety of dance classes for all skill levels. Work for Class, Scholarships and other financial aid programs are available. www.dancefx.org/ athens-​tuition CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly events including Drop-​In Painting (2nd & 4th Tuesdays), Writers of Oconee (2nd & 4th Mondays), Bingo (2nd Wednesdays), Open Chess Play (Saturdays), Mixed Media Meetup (Mondays) and more. www.athenslibrary.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. 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 DANCE CLASSES (East Athens Educational Dance Center) The center offers classes in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and more for all ages and skills. www.accgov.com/myrec FALL PROGRAM REGISTRATION (Athens, GA) The Leisure Services Department offers a diverse selection of classes and activities highlighting the arts, environmental science, recreation, sports and holiday events for both adults and children. Registration now open. www.accgov.com/myrec FREE SCHOOL FREE CLASSES (Various Locations) Learning network for community centered around compassion, autonomy and playfulness. Visit @athensfree​ school on Instagram. IMPROV CLASSES (Grady College) Free improv classes every Wednesday in Room 509. 5:30 p.m. More information @ImprovAthens OPEN ICE SKATING (Akins Ford Arena) Athens GA Figure Skating Club offers open ice skating for all skill levels every Monday through Thursday, 4–5 p.m. $10 students, $15 general admission. RSVP required. Athensgafigureskating@ 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. 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.athensareadiaperbank.com SEEKING DONATIONS (The Cottage) Seeking donations of single-​serving, non-​perishable snacks to help children and adults navigating interviews, therapy sessions and court hearings. To arrange a drop-​off please call 706-​546-​1133, ext 223. SEEKING DONATIONS (Athens, GA) Local homeless ministry Hands of Hope accepting donations of clothing for their free distribution program and fundraising yard sale with proceeds benefiting the program. 706-​207-​5172 SEEKING DONATIONS (Athens, GA) Local book club RIP Books seeking donations of any genre of books to stock Little Libraries around town. Email ripbookclubathens@gmail.

com for updated drop off location or to arrange pick up. SEEKING DONATIONS & VOLUNTEERS (Animal Services Adoption Center) Animal service sessions run Monday through Friday; training session required. Seeking donations of gently used bath towels and rags. Donations can be dropped off at the door after hours. www. accgov.com/animalservices SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (Various Locations) Visit www.flagpole. com/bulletinboard for ongoing opportunities with nonprofits and community organizations. SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (The Center at ACCA) Seeking volunteers for the Give Thanks 8K & Kids Fun Run. Event held Thanksgiving, Nov. 26. www.accaging.org SEEKING VOLUNTEERS (The Taylor-​Grady House) Seeking volunteers for the annual heritage programming showcase Fall Festival. Opportunities include stage and music assistance, load-​in and load-​out, vendor support and more. Two hour shifts. Event held Nov. 7. www.taylorgrady.com TEACHER SUPPLIES (Teacher Reuse Store) Educators can access free creative supplies at the store. Please bring credentials. www. accgov.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 (ACC Library) Various ongoing weekly events including various storytimes, Tween/Teen Club Creative, Teen Writing Club and more. www.athens​ library.org CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Bogart Library) Various ongoing weekly events including LEGO Mania, Storytime with Miss Harli, Sensory Open Play and more. www.athens​ library.org/bogart CLASSES & PROGRAMS (Oconee Library) Various ongoing weekly events including Children’s Lego Builder’s Challenge, Children’s Crafternoon, Story Time 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 HALLOWEEN COSTUME WEEK (Oconee County Library, Watkinsville) Ghouls and goblins of all ages are invited to visit the library in costume and receive fun surprises. Oct. 26–31 during business hours. www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

Word on the Street BOOK SALE (Front Porch Bookstore) $10 bag sale every Saturday benefitting the Winterville Friends of the Library. Cash, check or Venmo only. www.cityofwinterville.com/ front-​porch-​bookstore CALL FOR VENDORS (Asian Lunar Festival) Now accepting applications for local artists, performers, food vendors, community organizations and more for the second

annual Athens Asian Lunar Festival. Event held Feb. 13. www.instagram. com/taste_asia_st CALL FOR VENDORS (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Applications open for the 2nd annual Little Joy Fest featuring art, trinkets, vintage, food and more. Event help Nov. 1. Also seeking volunteers. www.instagram. com/treehousekidandcraft CITY TOURS (Historic Athens Welcome Center) A variety of guided tours available including a daily shuttle tour, walking tour of the downtown area and local music tour. Schedule in advance. www. athenswelcomecenter.com FRIDAY EVENTS (Multiplechoices Center for Independent Living) The organization hosts ongoing Friday gatherings. Tech discussions, support groups and more. www. multiplechoices.us/youre-​invited MEDICAL ASSISTANCE (Nuçi’s Space) Direct connections to mental healthcare like counseling and psychiatry, medical care for physical concerns and more. www. nuci.org, 706-​227-​1515 MINDFUL BREATH SANGHA MEETING (Healing Lodge) In the Zen tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Sundays, 1–2:30 p.m. Newcomers welcome. FREE! www.mindful​breath​ sangha.org OPEN CALL 2027 MLK DAY OF SERVICE PROJECT SITES (Athens) the Athens MLK Day of Service Steering Committee is looking for project sites. Local organizations that would like to be considered must apply by Nov. 8. www.accgov. com/mlkday 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 RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION FIELD TRIP WORKSHOP (Athens, GA) A 6-​week cohort for folks seeking LGBT-​affirming church, who want a reparative church experience, or are curious about the denominations. Includes 4 advance-​scouted Sunday church visits and lunch debriefs, opening/closing circles and a 1-​on-​1 spiritual direction session. $108–126. Registration closes Oct. 30. www.reclaim​spirituality.com/fieldtrips 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. Monthly drum circle before service every 3rd Sunday of the month. Go to www.unityathens.com for our weekly classes. 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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arts & culture

feature

arts & culture

feature

Frankie and the Fantoms

‘The Lord Knows When You Are Trying’

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

By Libba Beaucham arts@flagpole.com

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW HENDERSHOT’S STYLE

S

ince The Rocky Horror Show debuted as a stage musical in 1973 and was popularized by the 1975 film adaptation, it’s become a Halloween staple for costume inspiration, party themes and productions of all kinds. A look in the Flagpole calendar will reveal many such events, but one in particular stands out: the Frankie and the Fantoms production at Hendershot’s on Saturday, Oct. 31. Their first production was held last year after the annual Wild Rumpus Parade and Spectacle, and it will return for a pre-­Rumpus matinee at 3 p.m. and a post-­ Rumpus show at 10 p.m. The event unfolds as a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show with breaks for a live band performance and cast ensemble to act out the musical numbers on stage. In true Rocky Horror spirit, the audience is highly encouraged to dress up and participate in the experience.

MICHAEL CARNES

Co-­directors Jody Rollins (who is also the lighting designer and plays piano as Riff-­R aff) and Matt Knox (who plays bass as Frank-­N-­Furter) worked together on a Rocky Horror production in 2014 in Waycross that raised money for a children’s theater. Although it was a small production in an area without much of a theater scene, enthusiastic crowds packed out the shows. “A few years ago, when I had the idea to do something similar here, the whole idea was to raise money for Hendershot’s, and because Hendershot’s was struggling at the time, Matt mentioned it to Seth [Hendershot]. My whole thing was, I only wanted to do it if Seth agreed to play drums for it, and Seth not only agreed to play drums for it, he was like, ‘I want to be Dr. Scott.’ He was so excited and so into it because he could sit down, and that was great,” says Rollins. “When we started to reach out to people, we found out that people that we thought would know Rocky Horror didn’t know Rocky Horror, but we have this close circle of friends and people that we know coming in and out of Hendershot’s that love Rocky Horror, and so we just decided to ask them instead. It has kind of been centered around this Hendershot’s community.”

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At the time Dave Martin, who plays Rocky, was a frequent customer of Hendershot’s and a big fan of the production, so he was invited to join. It was serendipitous that the following spring Martin became one of the new co-­owners when Hendershot sold the business. Other cast members include Leo Farrell as Janet Weiss, Brent Temple as Brad Majors, Ella Blakely as Columbia, Mack Bosworth as Magenta, Nick Byrd as Eddie, and MK Barnes and Carden Orr as Phantoms. Guitarist Brian Smith and UGA saxophone professor Brandon Quarles round out the live band with Rollins, Knox and Hendershot. “It’s really special, like it’s something we share with each other. It was sort of built around this Hendershot’s family,” says Rollins. “So we’re really really happy that this space has stayed open and we can continue doing this with that family in this space where we basically met all these people.” “The hardest thing is just making sure we have a staff to run the place,” says Knox. “We go through some of those show traumas together. Like when batteries die in your wireless pack, and someone’s got to take their batteries out of their digital camera and let me use them for the next couple hours. You know, everyone freaks out together, and then everyone breathes together at the end.” One of Knox’s goals is to be able to package the production in a way that they can easily take to other venues. Frankie and the Fantoms performed an off-­season show earlier this year at the Marigold Auditorium. In comparison, the extra space and dressing room felt like a luxury, but the crew has had to pare it back down for the Hendershot’s space this Halloween. For the very first production, Rollins and Knox had to work on the light design and staging after hours the night before, which meant starting after midnight and finishing up after sunrise. But the show’s programming is now set—the new challenge is fitting added cast members on the Hendershot’s stage. “The original production of the play was upstairs in a small theater above the Royal Court Theater in London, and it sat about 60 people. They had one microphone, and they made that work, and it was great,” says Rollins. When it comes to the Rocky Horror experience, Knox says, “We want to get people who’ve never seen it on the train, right? Convert some people, you know. Make it a real cult.” Tickets can be purchased in advance at hendershotsathens.com. f

WHO: Frankie and the Fantoms WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 3 & 10 p.m. WHERE: Hendershot’s HOW MUCH: $20

F L A GP OL E .C OM · OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026

PRINTS AND POETRY BY DAVID HALE

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lagpole spoke with iconic local artist David Hale ahead of his exhibition “The Lord Knows When You Are Trying,” opening Oct. 24 at Tiger’s Eye Gallery. The exhibition features over 575 mono-­prints and a series of ceramic tiles alongside the release of his poetry book of the same title. Ahead of the opening reception, a printing session will be held from 2–4:30 p.m., during which participants can bring in dark cotton shirts or other cotton materials to have printed with Hale’s printing blocks. A $10 donation for the printing session goes directly to Nuçi’s Space. The opening reception will be held from 5–8 p.m. Hale will hold a workshop titled “Print it Your F*cking Self” on Nov. 7 from 2–5 p.m. that is open to all levels. The workshop is $100, and the fee will be donated to The Cottage. After the workshop, a book signing and reading of Hale’s poetry will be held. For more information, visit tigerseyegallery. com. Flagpole: Can you tell me about your upbringing and what first drew you to art? David Hale: I remember in kindergarten the first time the teacher squeezed out tempera paint onto a white paper plate, and just realizing I could do anything, and it felt like complete freedom… I was a highly sensitive child living in a world that’s often insensitive. I developed ADHD, and I would just make art to make sense of it all. And so I’m still doing the same thing. FP: Do you remember your first fascination with tattoos? DH: Maybe around fifth or sixth grade, I watched the movie Free Willy… That movie was filled with all of this Pacific Northwest, First Nations art, and I had never seen that before, and I was enthralled… But then that connected weirdly when my sister got a Red Hot Chili Peppers album… I hate Red Hot Chili Peppers with a passion, but [Anthony Kiedis] does have this outstanding two-­headed raven, First Nations-­style design tattooed on his back, and the liner notes were pictures of their tattoos. And they were the first kind of good tattoos I saw. Just living in East Cobb, there was nobody tattooed around. And I was hooked… I got tattooed the day I turned 18. I drew kind of a First Nations-­inspired sun design. And so that pursued me as much as I pursued it. FP: Your style has the high-­contrast linework of classic printmaking. Where does that influence come from? DH: I had an amazing great uncle who was a phenomenal artist… He did watercol-

ors and then linoleum block prints. And so his watercolors and linoleum block prints were all over my family’s houses… So it kind of full circles back to that influence of the type of stamp making. It’s kind of always stayed, this thread, which has overlap to the tattooing process, too. FP: For readers unfamiliar with printmaking, walk us through your process. DH: What I did is I carved blocks. I physically carved images with knives. And then what I proceeded to do is I painted every individual piece. I painted on them, I drew on them, I used spray paint. They’re full paintings… I made between 10 and 15 paintings for each block. And then I inked and hand printed each block on top of the paintings, and then added details around them, and signatures… And then I also took 18 of those blocks, and I made plaster molds out of them, and then pressed clay into those molds and made sculptural ceramic tiles from the blocks, so you can see more of the actual object. FP: Your show is titled “The Lord Knows When You Are Trying.” What does that mean to you?

DH: To me, that phrase is this reminder that the term “the Lord” is just a placeholder for any of the other kind of words that start with a capital letter. The universe knows when you are trying, and that maybe it’s not about the outcome. Maybe all that it takes is to just try. That has been kind of a mantra that’s followed me through. I’ve been working on this for probably a whole year and put over 1,000 hours into this body of work. It’s hard, but it’s purposeful. So that’s kind of both for me and for others. I’m doing a book of poetry to go with this, and I have a poem in the series—that’s what the book will be called, too—”The Lord Knows When You’re Trying.” Part of that poem is that it’s not only that the Lord, or the universe, knows when you’re trying, perhaps the universe is trying. Maybe the universe, in its most grounded purpose, is simply trying. That your existence here is proof that it’s trying. f

SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

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VOTED ATHENS FAVORITE REALTOR 2015-2026

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FIVE STARS ON ZILLOW WITH OVER 900 HOMES SOLD

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Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

HOW TO SOLVE:

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain numbers 1- to 9. Weekthe of 10/19/26 10/25/26

The Weekly Crossword 1

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21 Solution to Sudoku:

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by Margie E. Burke 9

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24 4 5 239 2 8 3 6 7 1 25 28 8 262 7 1 274 6 5 9 3 33 34 3 6 1 5 7 9 4 2 8 36 2 1 3 4 5 7 379 8 6 39 9 7 5 3 6 408 2 1 4 41 42 6 4 8 9 2 431 3 5 7 47 5 9 6 457 461 4 8 3 2 49 52 1 503 514 8 9 2 7 6 5 55 7 8 2 6 3 5 561 4 9

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ACROSS 1 Roll call listings 6 Sea eagle 10 End of a Hemingway title 14 Praise highly 15 Gas light 16 U.S. weather agcy. 17 Hitching post 18 Books with stiff covers 20 Push-up target 22 John ___ Booth 23 Hunt in Hollywood 24 Blew the whistle 25 URL ender 27 Sycophant 29 "Tide" anagram 33 Humiliations 35 "Swordfish" director Dominic 36 Pastry specialist 37 NY opera house, with "the" 38 Like some lawsuits 39 Black cat, maybe 40 Distribute differently 42 Pucker-inducing 43 Win the favor of

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Copyright 2026 by The Puzzle Syndicate

44 Leaky tire sound 45 "Law & Order: SVU" star 47 Eagles tight end Johnny 49 Suck-up 52 Form a league 55 Up in the air 57 Gave a PG to, e.g. 58 Stable color 59 Vane direction 60 Correct, as text 61 Say it ___ so 62 Tenement pests 63 Warbucks, to Annie DOWN 1 Certain tide 2 Wheel shaft 3 Fixer-upper? 4 Put on cloud nine 5 Baby transport 6 Improvement 7 "Get ___!" 8 Scand. land 9 Lengthwise 10 Tylenol, e.g. 11 It beats scissors 12 Put together 13 Back talk

19 Storage box 21 Paper quantity 24 Negotiated payouts 25 Explorer John or Sebastian 26 "The Look" author Michelle 28 Massage 30 Completely shattered 31 FDR or JFK 32 Hawthorne's "Twice-Told ____" 34 Opinion 38 Unable to escape 40 Verify, as a password 41 Give praise 46 Vacation rental 48 Movie genre 49 Cosmonaut Gagarin 50 "Hanna" actress Mireille 51 Glance over 52 Solidarity symbol 53 Care for 54 Singer Arnold 56 Motorists' org.

2 0 %% OFF 2

COUPLES’ TOYS ONLINE ONLY

USE CODE

cuffing ShopStarship.com

4100 Lexington Road

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

OC T OB E R 2 1, 2026 · F L A GP OL E .C OM

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ARTS

FRANKLIN FINE AND PERFORMING

SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS 2026

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SCHUBERT NO. 3 | TCHAIKOVSKY NO. 5 OCTOBER 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Charles and Lynne Knapp Performing Arts Center | 230 River Road, Athens, GA A night of symphonic contrasts. Schubert and Tchaikovsky have their own unique expressive voices, with memorable melodies and exciting virtuosity. $15 - Adults | $3 - UGA Students Scan QR code | music.uga.edu | 706-542-4400

EXHIBITION PANEL DISCUSSION AND RECEPTION FOR “CORNUCOPIA: TIES THAT BIND” NOVEMBER 3 at 5:30 p.m.

Lamar Dodd School of Art - Room S151 | 270 River Road, Athens, GA This panel will feature renowned artists Ben F. Jones and Bob Dilworth and be co-moderated by distinguished art historians Dr. Leslie King Hammond and Dr. Lowery Stokes Sims (former curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art). This event is free. Scan QR code | art.uga.edu

FALL MUSICAL “GUYS & DOLLS”

NOV. 6-7, 12-13 at 7:30 p.m. | NOV. 8 & 15 at 2 p.m. UGA Fine Arts Theatre | 255 Baldwin St, Athens GA Guys and Dolls is a dazzling celebration of Broadway at its most iconic — a bold, joyful musical spectacle filled with high-stakes gamblers, glamorous nightlife, and unforgettable romance. $20 - Adults | $7 - UGA Students Scan QR code | ugatheatre.com | 706-542-4400

STUDENT CHOREOGRAPHY CONCERT “THROUGHLINE” NOVEMBER 11-13 at 7:30 p.m.

UGA Dance Theatre | 263 W. Green Street, Athens GA Featuring original works choreographed and produced by students, with faculty and staff providing guidance and mentorship, highlighting a variety of music genres and styles of dance. $15 - Adults | $7 - UGA Students | $7 - Seniors Scan QR code | dance.uga.edu | 706-542-4400

SAVE 25% ON THE ORCHESTRA, “GUYS & DOLLS,” AND “THROUGHLINE” WITH THE SPOTLIGHT SAMPLER SCAN THE QR CODE TO ORDER ONLINE OR CALL 706-542-4400 AND ASK FOR THE SPOTLIGHT SAMPLER.

Embrace the arts. ENRICH YOUR WORLD.