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Commissioner Russell Edwards (left) offered a toast to newly re-elected Mayor Kelly Girtz (right) as commissioners Mariah Parker, Carol Myers, Jesse Houle and Tim Denson gathered around.

This Modern World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 NEWS: City Dope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Statewide Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Local Election Results

Pub Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

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

Hey, Bonita . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Pandemic Perspective

Curb Your Appetite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

PAIN & WONDER

TATTOO

VOTED AN ATHENS’ FAVORITE TATTOO STUDIO

Calendar Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

FOOD & DRINK: Grub Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

2011–2020

Sloan Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

New-ish Mexican Restaurants

Live Music Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 MUSIC: Threats & Promises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

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

Pilgrim’s Back at the Club

Art Around Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Alicia Nickles PUBLISHER Pete McCommons ADVERTISING SALES Landon Bubb, Jessica Pritchard Mangum

Sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

CITY EDITOR Blake Aued

Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

ARTS & MUSIC EDITOR Jessica Smith EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin CLASSIFIEDS Zaria Gholston AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson PHOTOGRAPHER Sarah Ann White CONTRIBUTORS Bonita Applebum, Hillary Brown, Gordon Lamb, Jessica Luton, Rebecca McCarthy, Ross Williams

GREGORY FREDERICK

OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Zaria Gholston

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EDITORIAL INTERN Violet Calkin, Patrick Barry COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Sloan Simpson by Mike White (see story on p. 14) STREET ADDRESS: 220 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30601 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Athens, GA 30603 EDITORIAL: 706-549-9523 · ADVERTISING: 706-549-0301 · FAX: 706-548-8981 LETTERS: letters@flagpole.com MUSIC: music@flagpole.com NEWS: news@flagpole.com ADVICE: advice@flagpole.com

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VOLUME 36 ISSUE NUMBER 21

PLEASE VAX UP SO WE DON’T NEED TO

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online exclusive With Gregory Frederick behind the camera, Athens GA Live Music documents artists gracing stages across the Classic City. Don’t miss footage from the recent performances by All Them Witches, Caulfield, Weaponized Flesh, Kadillak, Bleach Garden, The Wydelles and more. See “Athens GA Live Music Recap” at flagpole.com.

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Go Girtz

THE MAYOR CRUISES TO A SECOND TERM AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com The ’90s R&B classic “Return of the Mack” blared on the Little Kings soundsystem as supporter J.R. Green poured Mayor Kelly Girtz a glass of champagne at the AthensClarke County Democrats’ election watch party last Tuesday. The first batch of results had just come in, showing Girtz well on his way to re-election. While the consensus among most political observers was that Girtz would likely win without a runoff, some progressives were still nervous that a wave of conservative money could sweep Republican-backed candidates into office. Except in one race, it didn’t happen. Girtz wound up with 59% of the vote, just a point off his 2018 showing, despite five candidates running against him. His closest competitor, Mara Zúñiga, finished with 25%. Pearl Hall, Mykeisha Ross, Fred Moorman and Bennie Coleman III all received 5% or less. The through-line of all those opponents’ messages was that the people weren’t being heard. But as he did four years ago, Girtz finished first in all 24 precincts. He won an outright majority in 21 of them, nowhere polling less than 44% (that was in 6A, Cleveland Road Elementary in the far western part of the county). More than 21,000 people voted, compared to about 18,000 in 2018. Girtz started his victory speech by thanking his wife Andrea and son Noah for “not, like, sending me to live in a tent in the backyard” during the campaign. He went on to thank other family members, campaign staffers and others, including his opponents, “even when they’re dropping their drawers,” a joke referencing Moorman’s recent arrest for sunbathing nude at a St. Simons beach. Switching to a more serious tone, Girtz pledged to spend the next four years working to bring well-paying jobs, affordable housing and safe transportation to Athens. “What we’re doing is setting up a strong foundation, an unassailable foundation, to support people in living better lives every day,” he said. “Everyone is valuable in this community.” Zúñiga had criticized ACC’s current leadership over its handling of homelessness, a perceived lack of support for law enforcement and rising property tax bills. However, none of the candidates offered much in the way of specific policy alternatives. “Even though last night did not turn out the way we hoped, I still feel victorious,” she posted on her campaign’s Facebook page. “I have been able to meet so many people and hear so many stories. I feel as if my campaign truly started bridging the gap between so many Athens communities, and this is only the beginning. Thank you again for believing in me and for supporting my campaign. Athens, this is not the last you will hear of Mara Zúñiga!” All in all, four of six candidates endorsed by the ACC Democratic Committee won, and in the Commission District 5 race, both candidates the committee labeled “Democrats in good standing,” Dexter Fisher and Matt Pulver, are in a run-

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 1, 2022

off. Fisher was supported by both local Democrats and Athens Classic, a group of business leaders formed to oppose defunding the police that started a political action committee pledging to raise over $200,000 to defeat progressive candidates. Two other candidates that organization backed— Zúñiga and Asia Thomas in Commission District 3—lost. But John Culpepper in District 7 won a surprising victory over progressive Allen Jones 55%–45%. Jones had on his side a long track record of involvement on various citizen committees and civic groups, endorsements from well-known progressives like former mayors Heidi Davison and Gwen O’Looney, and detailed policies on a variety of issues. Culpepper ran primarily on vocational education, which is a school district issue. However, he also reported raising an astonishing $55,000 in his May campaign finance disclosure. Much of Athens’ Black leadership is cozy with Republicans, and Culpepper had the support of key pastors in the Timothy Road area. He also benefited from the backing of former mayor Nancy Denson and former commissioner Kathy Hoard, as well as his family name. “The name Culpepper, the heritage, the work his father did, that had an influence here,” said Russell Edwards, the current District 7 commissioner who was drawn out of his seat by Republican state legislators. John’s late father, E.H., a former candidate for mayor and state representative, is fondly remembered as a relentless booster for Athens-to-Atlanta rail. “One can hope that John will honor that legacy with some forward-thinking ideas of his own,” Edwards added. In Commission District 1, incumbent Patrick Davenport won re-election over challenger Audrey Hughes with 59% of the vote. “The people, I guess, believe in me and in the message I’m trying to provide,” Davenport said. “The fact I had a DUI and [am] in a new district, it’s a blessing.” In the all-new Commission District 3—shifted from central Athens to the Winterville area during redistricting— Tiffany Taylor edged out Thomas 54%–46%. Thomas had been favored by progressives at the beginning of the race, but some supporters backed away when she cashed a large check from Athens Classic co-founder Steve Middlebrooks, and Taylor received the Democrats’ endorsement. In Board of Education races, Commissioner Tim Denson—who was prevented from running for re-election by redistricting—won the District 5 BOE seat with 75% of the vote over Deston Bernard Anderson, who did not actively campaign. Heidi Hensley defeated James Alexander with 55% of the vote in District 1, and Mark Evans squeaked by Elder Johnson IV with 51% in District 9. Three incumbents were unopposed: District 9 Commissioner Ovita Thornton and school board members Linda Davis in District 3 and LaKeisha Gantt in District 7. Almost 68% of voters approved of continuing TSPLOST, a 1% sales tax for

transportation. The next five-year round is expected to raise $145 million for fare-free transit, road repaving, bike lanes, sidewalks, trails and other projects. Now, attention turns to the Commission District 5 runoff on June 21. Fisher almost avoided it, but ended up with 49.6% of the vote. He’ll face Pulver, who won 27%. Former commissioner Jared Bailey finished third with 23%. Voters will also be returning to the polls to choose Democratic and Republican nominees for the 10th Congressional District. On the GOP side, the top two finishers were Mike Collins with 26% and Vernon Jones with 22%. Meanwhile, Democrats will choose between Tabitha Johnson-Green (42%) and Jessica Fore (19%).

ACC Budget Talks Continue Commissioners have largely agreed on a fiscal 2023 budget—including fully funding the library’s request to lift low-paid employees up to a minimum of $15 an hour—but still haven’t decided how to pay for some programs. The ACC government received almost $60 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds that can be used to backfill budget holes created by the pandemic. In this case, commissioners are debating whether to use ARPA to free up money for a larger property tax cut. A proposal by Commissioner Ovita Thornton would cut the property tax rate by 0.67 mills, rather than the 0.5 proposed by Mayor Kelly Girtz. A competing proposal from Commissioner Tim Denson would cut the millage rate by six-tenths. The difference to taxpayers would be small—Mayor Pro Tem Carol Myers calculated it at $13 on her home, valued at $220,000. Thornton described it as a symbolic gesture to homeowners who’ve been complaining about higher property values, with assessments rising an average of 16% last year. “I do feel like folks think they’re paying and not getting anything for their tax dollars,” she said. However, other commissioners said they’re not comfortable using ARPA for ongoing expenses, since once those funds

are gone, local taxpayers will be on the hook. “I don’t want to rely on ARPA funding, especially for things that aren’t onetime costs,” Denson said. “I don’t think that’s sustainable.” The commission has already allocated $22 million of $57 million in ARPA funding, spending it on pandemic hazard pay for county employees, a homeless camp, eviction prevention and COVID-19 vaccine incentives. In January, they placed $30 million in “pots” for affordable housing, youth development, homelessness and business assistance, with another $5 million in contingency. Since then, they have agreed to spend $3.5 million to partially cover rising construction costs for the Bethel redevelopment. “We keep talking about ARPA as if it’s this bottomless well, and it’s not,” Commissioner Jesse Houle said. Commissioner Mariah Parker said the commission shouldn’t decide on specifics for ARPA funds without going through a transparent public process, and warned against frittering them away. “We could do really transformative things with ARPA that we couldn’t do with general fund dollars,” like providing reparations in the form of down payments on homes, Parker said. Among the expenditures that could be funded by ARPA or local dollars (or, in some cases, cut entirely): $200,000 for a Leisure Services master plan, $450,000 for park improvements, $750,000 for the Neighborhood Leaders program, $165,000 for a Youth Cadet Corps to train local highschool students to be police officers and $250,000 to build capacity for small local nonprofits. Commissioners also want to add $160,000 for neighborhood traffic calming, which would pay for 10 speed humps or six new radar signs that have proven effective in slowing down drivers, according to Commissioner Mike Hamby. “I see countywide, sociopathic drivers who threaten the lives of children, the elderly and others who walk our neighborhoods,” Commissioner Russell Edwards said. The commission is scheduled to vote on a final budget June 7. It takes effect July 1. f

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price… I take what he says with a grain of salt,” he added. Others said they have grown disillusioned with Trump following his presidency. “His endorsement don’t mean nothing to me,” said truck driver Greg Hendrix. “I mean, Trump done good while he was president, but from the election on, he showed us what type of person he was, and I don’t need nobody like that representing our country.” Collins had 25.6% of the vote to Jones’ Hendrix also cast his ballot for 21.6%. Jones originally was a candidate for Raffensperger, whom he credited with governor, but decided to run for Congress in the 10th despite living in DeKalb County, standing up to Trump’s “bullying” after the election, and for Herschel Walker, reportedly at Trump’s request to make room for Perdue to run for governor against albeit reluctantly. He said Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black would have been Kemp. his first choice, but he felt Walker’s star power gives him a better shot at beating Sen. Raphael Warnock. Terry Trivette, an insurance salesman Republican voters at Georgia’s polling and pastor, acknowledged he is in the places had mixed feelings about the former minority in his community, but said he is president. fed up with the Trump wing of his party, Rural Gordon County is the type of adding that he would “write in Mary place where Republican candidates hope Poppins” before voting for Greene. to have a solid base “I’m a conservaof support—it’s tive,” he said. “I’m a He is not the Republican Party libertarian in a lot represented by conservative stalwart of ways, but I’m a that I want to be affiliated Rep. Marjorie Taylor conservative when it with—at all. He’s eroded our sense comes to policy. I’m Greene and gave Trump more than conservative, I’m of democracy. 80% of the vote in just not what this 2020. But voters at is. This is not conthe Soronaville Community Center outside servatism. This is populism, and I don’t like Calhoun said Trump’s endorsement isn’t it. It’s brainwashing. So I went with Miss everything. [Jennifer] Strahan, who I think is a sensible Keith Cochran, who works in city govcandidate, but I don’t know. This woman’s ernment, said he voted for Kemp because got a stronghold on us, too. he likes the way he’s run the state over the “If you said God and guns enough,” he last four years, citing the recent fuel tax cut added with a shrug.

Republicans Put Trump on Mute FEW NON-FOOTBALL STARS HE ENDORSED WON THEIR PRIMARIES

By Ross Williams

a message during a primary that has been closely watched as a referendum on Trump’s lingering power over the national GOP. “He is not the Republican Party that I want to be affiliated with—at all,” Hall said after voting at the South Gwinnett Baptist Church. “He’s eroded our sense of democracy.” “I’m not happy with what [Biden’s] done, but we couldn’t keep going down that road [with Trump],” Hall said. “We just couldn’t, so now I’m back to the Republican Party and trying to weed this cancer out of it. Because that’s what it is to me.” Another Loganville resident who typically votes Republican, Holly Eck, also said she mostly steered clear of Trump-endorsed candidates like Jones. “I just think he’s an idiot, to say it plainly,” Eck said of Trump.

lection night was a disappointment for most of former President Donald Trump’s endorsed Republican candidates in Georgia’s statewide races. Herschel Walker, a former UGA football star and Trump surrogate in Georgia, ran away with a primary win and is set for a general election fight against Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock. But Gov. Brian Kemp, the former president’s best frenemy, easily defeated former Sen. David Perdue for the right to a rematch with Democrat Stacey Abrams this fall. A voter’s personal opinion appears to Trump is credited with propelling Kemp be more important than the Trump seal past then-Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle to secure the of approval in Georgia, said University of Republican nomination in 2018. But Kemp Georgia political science professor Charles became one of Trump’s favorite targets Bullock. after he refused to help overturn the 2020 “What it suggests is that Trump’s influelection results. ence is going to be muted by a person who Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, has a record,” Bullock said. “And Kemp, with another major target of Trump’s ire followhis four years as governor and everything ing the election, dodged a runoff against that has been passed by his administration, Trump-backed Jody Hice, a Republican conthat counts for something, whereas an gressman who ran on a platform of election open seat, which Kemp was running for conspiracy theories. Raffensperger, who four years ago, the Trump endorsement did refused Trump’s request to find additional make a lot of impact there.” votes in a now-famous phone call, reportTrump also issued several endorsements edly received death threats in the aftermath for incumbent Republicans, including of the 2020 vote, but he is now clear to seek Greene who were nearly certainly set to another term against a Democratic chalwin regardless, including some who had no lenger who still must survive a runoff. primary opponents. “Of course, he’ll take Attorney General Chris Carr easily full credit for it and brag about fended off a late bid from it,” Bullock said. “But in reality, Trump-backed challenger John what we’re seeing, at least in Gordon, an attorney involved Georgia, is that simply because with Trump’s legal attempts to Trump smiles at you and gives overturn the 2020 election Joe you his backing, it’s not the Biden won. With about 95% be-all-end-all.” of the vote counted, Carr won In his concession speech, nearly 75% of the vote and is Perdue pledged to give Kemp his poised to face Democratic nomifull support against Abrams, but nee Jen Jordan, an attorney and whether Trump does the same is state senator from Atlanta. another question. Many blame In an exceedingly rare move Trump and his claims of election for a former president, Trump fraud for depressing Republican made an endorsement for the turnout in the January 2021 state insurance commissioner, runoffs that sent Democrats backing attorney Patrick Witt Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff against incumbent John King, to the Senate, tipping the balbut King appeared to manage an ance of power to their party. easy win with more than 70% of “I think Trump may well votes. do that, because Trump is not A few hand-picked candidates really interested in building the by Trump fared better. Trump’s Republican Party, he’s interested favorite for lieutenant governor, in building a Trump party,” state Sen. Burt Jones, led fellow Bullock said. “Therefore, I’m Republican state Sen. Butch not sure he’ll ever get behind Miller with 50.1% of the vote to Kemp. If Trump follows that Miller’s 31.1%, but a few voters David Perdue concedes defeat alongside wife Bonnie Perdue. Perdue led a failed charge for former President Donald Trump to pattern, it could cost Kemp, and were yet to be counted. unseat Georgia incumbents. cost him dearly, potentially, in Two Trump favorites for that it might induce enough Congress with little political and school COVID-19 policies. He’s also a Republicans to—not that they would vote experience face uphill runoffs. About 80 miles to the southeast, some dyed-in-the-wool fan of Greene. “Oh, I just for Stacey Abrams—but to skip over Kemp, In Congressional District 6, which was Gwinnett Republicans expressed similar love her. I wish she’d run for president,” in which case, you might see a replay of newly drawn to favor a Republican candiconcerns. that January 2021 federal election, where date, Jake Evans, the son of Trump’s former he said. “She’s honest. And she’s for the Loganville resident Doug Hall said people.” I think Trump probably went a long way ambassador to Luxembourg, is set to go to he was a reliable GOP voter before the Trump’s endorsement matters, but not toward costing Republicans those two a runoff with former Congressman Rich 2020 election, when he cast his ballot more than what he’s seen with his own Senate seats.” f McCormick, according to the Associated for President Joe Biden. But he pulled a eyes. “[Trump] is a nut, but I think he’s Press. Republican ballot Tuesday and sought This article originally appeared at georgiarecorder. for the people also,” he said. “On the other Former Democratic state Rep. Vernon out the candidates who had not received com. Georgia Recorder Deputy Editor Jill Nolin hand, Biden, he’s giving money away, so Jones, Trump’s pick for east Georgia’s Trump’s blessing, including Black. contributed to this report. we like that, but somebody’s got to pay the District 10, appears to be in a similar boat. Hall said he hopes Georgia voters send

Voters React

Looking to November

“

ROSS WILLIAMS / GEORGIA RECORDER

JUNE 1, 2022· F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Pandemic Perspective IT’S NOT OVER, NO MATTER HOW MUCH WE WANT IT TO BE

By Jessica Luton news@flagpole.com

nce upon a time, we lived in a preCOVID world. It was a much less stressful world—without masks, testing, social distancing or monitoring new cases, hospitalizations and deaths. As we enter our third pandemic summer, you could easily think that we were in pre-pandemic times again. Much of the American public is, understandably, exhausted. According to a May 2022 Pew Survey, “just 19% of Americans rate the coronavirus outbreak as a very big problem for the country, the lowest share out of 12 issues included in the survey. In June 2020, in the early stages of the outbreak, 58% rated it as a very big problem, placing it among the top concerns at the time.” The largest concern in the survey: inflation. The public sentiment on the pandemic has been fueled by unclear messaging, data and policies from once-trusted public health institutions like the CDC, but part of the complacency can also be attributed to the economy, as many Americans can no longer afford to take days off of work to isolate. Just because we are tired of dealing with the pandemic or pretend the pandemic is no longer happening doesn’t mean that it’s not still with us. In recent weeks, there is more and more evidence to suggest we’ve been living in a fairy tale as a country. This pandemic is not over, even if we have decided that we are done with it.

indicators, so having a means to monitor rising viral levels in the community before it affects our health-care system locally is just as important now as in other phases of the pandemic. Sadly, the rise in cases across the country has been difficult to monitor and see in the data for a number of reasons, which has contributed to the general lack of concern among the public. The rising prevalence of at-home tests has meant that many people stopped seeking out PCR testing that is reported to the Georgia Department of Public Health. While at-home testing is another tool for the public to self-monitor, these test results are not recorded in the official statistics. In fact, there is no mechanism for reporting these tests, according to DPH Communications Director Nancy Nydam. While some may continue to seek out traditional PCR testing, any increase in positive case counts in CDC or DPH data is a vast undercount. Just after the height of the Omicron wave, the CDC announced that it would take a different approach to monitoring the pandemic that would focus less on new case numbers and more on the well-being of hospitals in local communities. While the move made sense to many public health experts initially, it became apparent fairly quickly that the “Community Levels” map and color-coded scale that was created for this new monitoring phase was flawed.

with far more viral spread than most were aware of. According to this map, Clarke County and many of the surrounding counties are bright red right now, indicating high levels of viral spread. Last week, the CDC changed the “Community Levels” map key, in part because of severe criticism by public health experts. A week after saying most of the country was safe, CDC Director Michelle Walensky tweeted that 32% of the U.S. population was in a medium- or highrisk community. That rate has only increased for much of the country. The admission chips away at the attitude that everything is fine, Amber Schmidtke according to microbiologist Amber Schmidtke, who writes about the pandemic in Georgia. “The current U.S. COVID-19 strategy is to feed Americans into the disease chipper,” Schmidtke wrote in a recent newsletter. “There are no brakes on COVID19 at this time. Transmission is happening, unimpeded.” To complicate matters further in Georgia, DPH moved to weekly COVID19 updates at the end of April. With less robust data to report because of at-home testing, the move seemed inevitable, but it has meant less ability to keep an eye on community transmission levels on a dayto-day basis. Given that we are now in at the start of another surge—albeit one that

For much of the public, the risk of spreading COVID-19 is no longer a concern. Many people just don’t see it as a real public health threat at this point, but that is short sighted, said cardiologist Jayne Morgan, executive director of the Piedmont

most people seem to be unaware of—even less robust data on new cases might have been useful. Wastewater monitoring is the one tool that gives us a clear indication of viral levels in a community, gives complete anonymity and is easily supported by the already existing wastewater treatment facilities across the country. DPH says they are working on getting more wastewater monitoring up and running across the state, but so far that effort has been slow going. In Athens, professor Erin Lipp at the UGA Center for the Ecology of Infectious

Healthcare COVID-19 Task Force. “The pandemic isn’t over,” she said. “Equating and minimizing and marginalizing the pandemic as a virus similar to the flu is disingenuous.” At this point, we do have tools that we did not have at other points in the pandemic. Therapeutics can help curtail a severe infection for those who are most vulnerable. Vaccines, which may not prevent infection altogether, do provide a level of protection against severe disease that might result in hospitalization. Booster doses provide extra protection.

Diseases has been monitoring Clarke County wastewater. Over the course of the past five weeks, wastewater monitoring from Lipp’s lab has shown a steady but persistent increase in viral levels. The most recent update showed that viral loads were back to levels not seen since February, even though, due to limited clinical testing, the seven-day running average was much lower than the tail end of Omicron. While wastewater monitoring is a useful tool, the future of the pandemic monitoring in Clarke County could be at risk. Funding has not been secured for continued monitoring past the beginning of the fall semester, Lipp said. With UGA’s recent announcement that COVID-19 data and safety protocols will no longer be enforced, alongside lack of official data, the loss of this tool for the community could have a severe impact in our ability to know what is happening with the virus.

Protecting Yourself

The CDC’s new Community Levels map (left) contributes to a false sense of security, but the Community Transmissions map (right) paints a more dire picture of the pandemic.

In the last two months, new cases of COVID-19 in Georgia have more than quadrupled. In Athens, the seven-day running average of new cases was up to 17.7 per day as of May 25, from a low of 1.1 on Mar. 25. So far, at least 222 Clarke County residents have died from COVID-19, including one last week. While hospitalizations have not risen to alarming rates, nine Clarke County residents were hospitalized for the virus last week. In total, 1,224 residents have been hospitalized to date. Hospitalizations and deaths are lagging

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 1, 2022

Up until just a few weeks ago, this map—which included green, orange and yellow—showed that 90% of the country was in a low- or medium-transmission community. On the other hand, the “Community Transmission” map—which is what the CDC had been using to monitor conditions since the beginning of the pandemic—showed a much different picture of viral spread. With a color scale of red, orange, yellow and blue, a timelapse of the last few weeks showed a country that is becoming more and more red and orange,

TESTING: Through the U.S. Postal Service, each household is now eligible for eight free at-home antigen tests. Further, if you’ve not taken advantage of at-home tests in recent months, you’re eligible for another eight free tests. Stock up now so you’ll have plenty on hand if the need arises in the future. If you test positive, DPH recommends contacting your health-care provider to receive appropriate medical care, especially if your symptoms get worse or you are an

SOURCE: CENTER FOR THE ECOLOGY OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES, UGA

Wastewater data shows a surge in coronavirus levels that isn’t showing up as much in state-collected data now that more people are testing at home.

ous and virulent variant this winter. As it stands, several Omicron sub-variants are mutating and taking hold simultaneously. “The virus is evolving in a much more consequential way,” Morgan said. “We need to rethink our public health strategy. This Omicron variant has spun off at an alarming pace.” Repeated infections have been shown to increase the chances of developing chronic health problems associated with “long COVID.” While research on long COVID is still at its infancy, at this point the data indicates that repeated COVID-19 infection can produce chronic Jayne Morgan problems such as memory loss, cardiovascular problems and prolonged exhaustion, according to Morgan. “Our complacency could come back to bite us,” she said. While many have let down their guard at this point in the pandemic, there is a lot we can do as individuals to help combat the spread of the virus. The spread of this virus depends on human behavior, said Morgan. CREDIBLE SOURCES: In Athens, the CEID wastewater lab data is updated each Friday afternoon. DPH updates, released weekly on Wednesdays now, provide some gauge of viral spread. The CDC Community Transmission Map provides the most clear gauge of community spread, but the newer Community Levels map does not give an accurate representation of viral spread. Knowing where things stand locally can help you make your own risk-based decisions about socializing, masking and just generally being more vigilant in your own use of public health measures.

older adult or have an underlying medical condition. There are therapeutics that can help fight off severe infection in the first days of symptoms. DPH also recommends staying home for five days, isolating from others in your home, communicating with close contacts and wearing a well-fitted mask when around others. GET VACCINATED: Finish your two dose vaccination, if you’ve only had one dose. Get a booster, if you haven’t already. BE AWARE OF PATTERNS:

If you look at the patterns of surges for Athens, you can see when we have had surges in the past. This can help inform your own behavior and know when you might want to wear a mask or avoid crowds or move events and social activities outdoors. Further, if you’re aware of these patterns alongside monitoring current viral levels, you can carefully time your booster doses. Booster doses provide a level of extra protection for about four months. If you can see that a surge is coming, a booster dose ahead of the surge is a smart decision, especially for more vulnerable populations. While the pandemic is still at our doorstep, we all have the ability to do individual risk assessment based on our own health and age, consideration of close family members and friends, and the well-being of others in our community. At this point, most public health proponents continue to offer the same advice—use the resources and tools available to assess your own risk and make informed decisions about what precautions or measures you need to follow. “It all comes down to the human behavior and the decisions we make now,” said Morgan. f

news

pub notes

Reveries in the Rubble

HOW AN ATHENS TV STATION WAS LAUNCHED FROM THE HOLIDAY INN BAR

By Pete McCommons pete@flagpole.com Seeing the Holiday Inn reduced to rubble surely brings back memories to lots of people. For many years it was our only downtown hotel, and its restaurant and bar were handy when there weren’t many other places to wine and dine. It also played host to a steady stream of civic club luncheons and meetings. No doubt many people also have memories of the old hostelry that they recall with a guilty pleasure and keep to themselves. My own recollections go back to a period in the early life of the Athens Observer when we added television to our weekly newspaper. I must point out here that a severe lack of space prohibits naming all the wonderful newspaper and television people who were part of these endeavors. While it may appear from this account that Chuck Searcy and I did it all, we were mere figureheads compared to all the bright, creative and hardworking people who made the newspaper and TV station work. Founding Observer partner Chuck had left for a stint in the Carter administration in Washington, D.C. When he came back, due to his chief’s defeat by Ronald Reagan, Chuck was full of enthusiasm for what was called “low power” television, but it came to our attention that there was also a requirement that local cable systems make a channel available for local broadcasts. No need to build a tower and fit it with broadcast equipment. Just get cablecast equipment and hook it up. The local system at that time was Liberty Cable. A meeting was arranged at the Holiday Inn bar. Enter M.M. Victory, a Birmingman, AL, resident who was the owner of Liberty Cable. When M.M. came to town for Liberty Cable business, he worked out of the Holiday Inn bar for long hours, lubricating his labor with a continual flow of alcohol. Chuck could match M.M. drink for drink. I usually fell by the wayside before the evening’s negotiations came to a close. It turned out that Liberty needed us as much as we needed them. They wanted a local station; we needed local cable. We admitted to M.M. that we had no experience in TV, though we knew the local news business. We were sustained by his answer: “We will not let you fail.” Of course, we still had to borrow a lot of money and buy a lot of studio equipment—lights, cameras, mikes, amps, monitors—the bill quickly climbed beyond the bank’s willingness to add our TV debt to our newspaper debt, so we had to seek private funding, which proved very difficult to repay. It’s possible that the planning we pur-

sued at the Holiday Inn bar was skewed by M.M.’s elixirs, because the basic premise of our venture seemed solid. We already had the hard part: a news-gathering organization. But, come to find out, those news gatherers were already overworked and underpaid. Moreover, our production crew—paste-up artists, typesetters, proofreaders, illustrators—couldn’t just finish work on the paper and then turn on the cameras. That meant we had to hire camera, lighting and sound people on top of the payroll we already had trouble meeting. Not to mention the fact that our ad staff, already struggling to sell enough ads to keep the paper afloat, had no idea how to sell television advertising. LEE SHEARER

On the other hand, COVID-19 spread has fueled continued mutations over time. These new variants are becoming increasingly more capable of evading immunity. As more variants pop up, it’s likely that we’ll see less protection from booster doses and the vaccine. We could see a large rise in new cases this summer that don’t cause large numbers of hospitalizations or deaths, said Morgan, but allowing COVID-19 to spread and mutate further may create a more danger-

In the Holiday Inn sessions, Chuck, soothed by M.M.’s hospitality, was able to talk confidently of our progress, but back at Observer TV, we were scrambling. We contracted with United Press International to run what was basically a newswire, a continual crawl of the latest happenings—no sound. For sound, we convinced the nearest NPR radio station at the time—WABE in Atlanta—to let us carry their broadcast. For programming, we had Athens City Council meetings, because we were close enough to run a wire across the street. For sports, we had UGA women’s basketball and Clarke Central football games. For the icing on the sports cake, we had a weekly talk show by none other than Larry By God Munson, who drove over from Atlanta, sat down in front of the camera and started fielding questions. He was great at it, and he was a real gentleman. We were just beginning to figure out how to sell TV ads when Millard Grimes, who died just last month, came along and bought the Observer and Observer TV and paid off our debts. The TV station finally turned out to be a little gold mine, but then Charter Communications bought Liberty Cable and had no interest in letting a funky local station use one of its channels—a severe lack of corporate vision occasioned no doubt by a failure to conduct business out of the Holiday Inn bar. f

JUNE 1, 2022· F L A GP OL E .C OM

advice

Chautauqua Comes to the Morton Theater

Dealing With An Unresolved Violation

SUNDAY, JUNE 12TH

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Hi Bonita, I’m having a hard time figuring out what’s worth speaking on and what’s better off silently moving on from. About five years ago, I had a weird encounter I considered inappropriate with a friend who was also an ex-hookup. Basically, I was very drunk, they were very sober, and they tried to coerce me into sex. I was very upset about the situation, and we didn’t talk for a very long time. Until recently. We came across each other downtown and had a conversation, just about life and the pandemic, etc. They said they missed me and would like to be friendly again, even if not friends, and I felt a lot lighter about the situation and agreed. However, we didn’t talk about that incident, and from what

then it still bothers you. You seem a little cagey about this person’s offer of renewed friendship, especially with such a lack of closure. It’s likely that this person has completely screwed up notions of courtship and dating, possibly believing that y’all were actually on the cusp of having a magic moment before you got too drunk and had to tap out. I can think of many people (let’s be honest here: guys) who have responded to these kinds of accusations with honest-to-goddess bewilderment that they were doing anything untoward. They think that that’s how flirting works, that’s how sex works: get in where you fit in, and all tactics are OK if they get you closer to getting laid.

they said, I don’t think they have any clue as to why we ever stopped talking or that I was so upset about that night. At this point, I’m not sure if it bothers me anymore or not. Do I bring it up? Especially to make sure it doesn’t happen again? Or is it better to just let it go now that we’re older and things are different? Trying To Move On

That said, I still have no sympathy or empathy or understanding for people who think of consent as an afterthought or something that you can treat like a game. You’re talking about something that happened only in 2017, and I don’t buy ignorance as a reason behind their attempt at coercion. If you plan to talk this out with this person, then prepare yourself for the possibility of them refusing to hear you or walking away. Maybe I’m jaded, but I tend to assume the worst possible response when trying to confront people about sexual or racial transgressions. They’re touchy subjects that no one wants to be guilty of, and sometimes the accused do not respond graciously to confrontation. I hope this person will, but it’s also possible that this could be the thing that ends your friendship with this person for good. Don’t forget that you have every right to curate your social experience, and you don’t have to accept anyone’s friendship or company just because they offer it. I worry that you’re considering all this just because this person showed interest in your friendship, but they’ve already given you profound reasons not to trust them. You can just say no. f

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F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 1, 2022

Hey TTMO, These are not decisions to be made quickly or lightly. What that person did was a very serious transgression in my opinion, and clearly you agree that their behavior was 100% out of bounds. I think that any sober person who would try to coerce sex out of an intoxicated person is not someone to be trusted, and I want to encourage you not to just let this go without being sure that they know what they did wrong and that they have changed. I think it’s a bit naive to assume that they have no idea what was unacceptable about their behavior, especially if y’all have never talked about it. I don’t doubt that you’ve come to feel more peaceful and calm about what happened, but I wonder if this person spent any of those five years reflecting on their grossly inappropriate and predatory behavior. If you’re not sure if this still bothers you,

Need advice? Email advice@flagpole.com, or use our anonymous online form at flagpole.com/getadvice.

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food & drink

grub notes

Mexican and Uruguayan Offerings PLATES FIT FOR A FEAST

By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com grilled quickly, sliced and tossed with piles of sliced and sauteed onions, green peppers, tomatoes and big, still-crisp french fries. It is two meals on a plate for sure, especially if you’ve taken advantage of the chips and salsa that arrive at your table compliments of the house. In addition to the usual carafe of salsa (too tomatoey but hot), you get two plastic squeeze bottles of sauce, one red/ orange (habanero) and one perfectly balanced creamy green, with lots of avocado and jalapeño. The chips are even warmed, a small detail but one that speaks to the way the restaurant actually cares about making its customers happy. Even better is the seven mares soup, a big ceramic bowl of complex red broth that hides clams, mussels, crab legs, big chunks of white fish, shrimp, rings of squid and possibly more varieties of seafood. Dose it up with chopped onion, lemon juice, cilantro and rings of fresh jalapeño, and clear out your sinuses while you fill your belly. El Bajio has plenty of things of the “burrito especial” variety, but also more seafood, pozole, menudo, nachos, a bunch of dips, wings, hamburgers and a kids menu with salchipapas. It seems to be

SABOR LATINO (1550 Oglethorpe Ave., 706-850-8299): Unlike El Bajio, Sabor Latino is not really a Mexican restaurant, although it does have Mexican offerings. Since its beginnings on Fritz Mar Lane, through its move to Watkinsville near Publix, and now in this second location where the old fancy Transmetropolitan used to be near the loop, it’s had delicious Uruguayan dishes on the menu as well, and they’re always the best option. Most of them are in the “specials” section, although some are in the sandwiches,

SABOR LATINO

EL BAJIO (400 Hawthorne Ave., 706850-1191): For a long time, La Estrella Mexican Restaurant occupied this spot in an unprepossessing shopping center, festooned on its interior with coastal murals, with the squawk of a bird indicating that a new customer had stepped through the door. It rarely made lists of the best Mexican restaurants in Athens, but it was among them nonetheless, with a focus on seafood in particular. Since then, a few other places have come and gone, but none captured the charm of the original. El Bajio at least has a shot at doing so. Owned by the same folks as the grocery of the same name on Old Commerce Road, the restaurant has remodeled the interior, covering the murals with white wood paneling that makes the entire dining room seem brighter. The bathrooms have been redone. The bar has been moved to a different side of the room. Decoration is sparse, and hours are inconsistent. Theoretically, it’s open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner, starting at 11 a.m., but sometimes it’s closed on Sunday. The menu on the website is a bit different from the laminated copy you’re handed, and neither is exactly the same as the wall signage with pictures of various dishes. Service is not particularly speedy. It’s worth persisting, though. Tuesday brings taco specials at $1 each, and the barbacoa is a solid rendition. The pastor and the chorizo are a little dry but very flavorful, served with a shower of cilantro and chopped onions, but with a lemon wedge on the side instead of the more usual lime. Pay more for your dishes and you will probably get something better, as with the bistec a la Mexicana, which is sort of a cross between lomo saltado and fajitas. The beefsteak that’s the heart of the dish is aggressively and deliciously seasoned, then

finding an audience, and now you can add to that—doing take-out if you’d rather not eat inside.

and the empanadas include many more options than the usual beef, chicken and cheese. The chivito al plato, much like the bistec a la Mexicana above, is a massive plate of food built around a thin, tenderized

steak topped with fried eggs, bacon, ham, cheese, french fries and pickled red bell peppers, with a Russian salad (potatoes, peas, mayo) and a regular salad (lettuce, tomato, vinaigrette) on the side. Even better is the chorizos plate, which, rather than the hot and salty crumbled sausage you’d expect at a Mexican restaurant, includes two lovely whole sausages, mildly flavored, with chimichurri sauce on the side and the same two salads as previous. The menu is big, with much to explore and a lot of options for kids. Much like in its Fritz Mar location, the sandwiches are a strength. The interior hasn’t changed much since Transmet occupied it, but that means it’s still pretty and open, with lots of subway tile and nice light fixtures. Want to eat outside? You can climb the stairs to the rooftop patio. Sabor Latino is open from 11 a.m.–10 p.m. most days (closed Mondays), although sometimes it opens a little later. WHAT’S UP: National franchise Crumbl Cookies has opened in the Beechwood shopping center with take-out, curbside and delivery options. The Alley has taken over the spot in Homewood Hills most recently known as Homewood Social, with drinks, live music and trivia—bowling will return soon. The Eastside Cool World ice cream shop has reopened its dining room. The formerly mobile-only coffee provider Java Joy has opened a brick-and-mortar café at Piedmont Oconee Health Campus. Keep an eye on the Grub Notes blog at flagpole.com for the latest restaurant news. f

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arts & culture

calendar picks

MUSIC | FRI, JUNE 3

Reed Turchi

Hendershot’s • 8 p.m. • $8 (adv.), $10

The Nashville-based artist Reed Turchi is bringing his original “kudzu desert blues” genre to Athens, which he describes as a combination of north Mississippi hill country blues and Saharan Desert blues. The genre is an intersection between musicians like R. L. Burnside and Mdou Moctar. Turchi has released over a dozen albums, toured internationally, scored films and more with press from Rolling Stone, American Songwriter, The Oxford American and Fretboard Journal. With such a prolific discography, Turchi’s sound has been described

pals, Claire Campbell, Jacob Wenzka, Luke Rushing, Max Shultz, Maxim, Organically Programmed, Panic Wave, Rick Bedell & Eddie Glicken and The Wydelles. [Rebecca McCarthy]

EVENTS | SAT, JUNE 4

Blueberry Festival

Forest Heights • 11 a.m.–9 p.m. • FREE

Everything will be coming up blue in Forest Heights when the neighborhood hosts its second Blueberry Festival. Food trucks and music will help celebrate the tasty little fruits, hailed by health experts as nutrition powerhouses. The neighborhood has in the past two years planted 140 blueberry bushes in yards, whose owners will allow anyone to pick from them as the bushes mature and bear fruit. A $5 donation is suggested, with all proceeds helping to buy more bushes. From 11 a.m.–1 p.m. is a blueberry cookoff, during which a panel of celebrity judges will hand out awards for various categories of delicious creations. Jane Kobres’ blueberry pie—fresh berries, lemon, ginger, rum and whipped cream— took top honors last year. Kerem Kilic, who grows and sells microgreens and mushrooms, will offer tours of his very productive yard from 2–4 p.m. From 5:30–9 p.m., attendees can enjoy The Blueberry Jam concert, which features neighborhood musicians, as well as food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and a silent auction. The music lineup includes Amber & Andrew Ducote, Chris Holcombe &

threats & promises

Pilgrim’s Back at the Club PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

MUSIC | SAT, JUNE 4

Tech N9ne

Georgia Theatre • 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show) • $30

It always feels like a special occasion when a large, nationally known hip-hop act comes through Athens, and Tech N9ne carries a highly influential legacy. His wild energy and crazy flows have amassed billions of views and streams, four platinum

Tech N9ne

as changing from one record to the next, synthesizing the vibes of The Rolling Stones, T. Rex and Beck in addition to the band’s previously stated influences. This is the first time his “kudzu trio” is stepping back in town since pre-COVID days. [Sam Lipkin]

music

singles, three gold singles and a gold album, Everready. Tech N9ne’s brand of hip hop is known for its signature rapid-fire “chopper” style, but his collaborators have ranged from Tupac to Gary Clark, Jr. to Deftones. Even for those unfamiliar with his catalog, his proclaimed “weird” and “wonderful” stage show is an entertaining performance by itself. Bigger than rap, Tech N9ne built a culture through the record label Strange Music, Inc. Also on the bill for this night are hip-hop labelmates Joey Cool, X-Raided and ¡Mayday!. [SL] MUSIC | MON, JUNE 6

Kristin Hersh

40 Watt Club • 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show) • $20

Singer-songwriter and musician Kristin Hersh of the ’80s and ’90s alternative rock band Throwing Muses will be joined by former bandmate of the same group Fred Abong. Abong’s solo work highlights his artistry as a singer-songwriter while maintaining the raw, gritty alternative energy of the bands he’s played with. Hersh’s 2018 solo album Possible Dust Clouds is described as “enveloping the juxtaposition of the concept of ‘dark sunshine’” through a “squeaky mix of discordant beauty” akin to Dinosaur Jr. and My Bloody Valentine. As a guitarist, her style ranges from jaggedly dissonant to traditional folk. Hersh is also the author of a memoir, entitled Rat Girl, based on her diary detailing an eventful year of Throwing Muses gaining fame and dealing with personal struggles. [SL] f

ONE DAY AT A TIME: The first single from country artist Kimberly Morgan York’s upcoming album is out now. Titled “Another Lover,” the song swings slowly as it explores heartbreak, regret and resolution. York’s upcoming album is named Keep On Going, and it features a bona fide allstar band. Featured players here are Scott Baxendale (guitar), David Barbe (bass), Carlton Owens (drums), Jay Gonzales (piano), Matt Stoessel (pedal steel) and Adam Poulin (violin). Slated for release on July 22, this is the second album by York this year, following the long-delayed Found Yourself a Lady, which came out in January. Find this on all major streaming services, and grab more information via facebook. com/KMYEntertainment. AIN’T LIFE GRAND?: Anyone headed to Atlanta to catch Widespread Panic this August, when the band performs Aug. 10–13 at The Fox Theatre, will be edified to know that the Sam Holt Band will play three late-night shows at Atlanta venue Smith’s Olde Bar Aug. 10–12. Aug. 10 of this year marks the 20th anniversary of Panic founding member Mikey Houser’s death. Holt is Houser’s former guitar tech and quite accomplished in his own right as a songwriter and performer. The shows these nights are being billed as “Sam Holt Band Presents: Remembering Mikey 20–Just Let the Music Play.” These shows will absolutely sell out, and quickly, too. So if this is your jam, pun totally intended, jump on these tickets now. Find yours at facebook.com/SamHoltMusic, facebook. com/rememberingmikeyband and sobatl. com. GET BACK: From its cover art, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s an old Foghat LP but, no, it’s a new live EP from Athens rockers Pilgrim. It’s titled Back at the Club… Live at the 40 Watt and was recorded Apr. 7, when the band opened for Drive-By Truckers during that group’s annual HeAthens Homecoming run of shows. Longtime fans and listeners are already familiar with Pilgrim’s uncanny ability to play rock and roll as if the past 45 years never happened. Specific highlights on this particular release are the new song “Sunflower Seeds” and set opener “No Time For Dying.” The record was superbly recorded by David Barbe and Michael McKinnon and mixed By Sloan Simpson. Find this over at pilgrim4.bandcamp.com. EASY BREEZY: Although the live music scene is pretty much back in high gear these days with plenty to do and see, I still wanted to highlight a special show happening

Saturday, June 4 at the Flicker Theatre & Bar. This night’s audience will be treated to performances from the gorgeous folk-oriented group The Rishis as well as sets from John Kiran Fernandes, New Jersey’s Pillowinde and Pittsburgh’s County Conservation District. Doors are at 9 p.m., the show starts at 10 p.m., and it’ll cost ya seven bucks at the door. Get up to speed via cloudrecordings.bandcamp.com/ track/wake-up-2, pillowinde.bandcamp. com, countyconservationdistrict.bandcamp. com and cloudrecordings.bandcamp.com/ album/warm. TRIPLE PLAY: Athens hip-hop artist Niño Brown releases a new EP named Golden Boy this week on all major streaming services. Each of the three tracks were engineered, mixed and mastered by Kxng Blanco with beats coming courtesy of Trvy, Breaking Towers and Bryan Beats. The title track features guest spots by BYV_Trubb and

Blesstheplaya, and “Pink Kadillak” features the aforementioned Blanco. Brown goes entirely solo, though, on the EP’s strongest track “Little Sister” which is rife with a hummable and memorable melody. Find this wherever you stream your stuff. STAY CLASSY, ATHENS: The UGA Performing Arts Center just announced its 2022–2023 series of UGA Presents shows and, as usual, it’s an absolutely killer set of performances. Current subscribers to the series have until June 12 to renew and receive a 20% discount, and new subscribers can start signing up on June 13. Group reservations begin July 5, and single-show tickets go on sale to the public Aug. 8. Included in the series are The War and Treaty (Sept. 8), Anderson & Roe Piano Duo (Sept. 16), An Afternoon with Ira Glass (Sept. 18), Yamma Ensemble (Sept. 22–23), Complexions Contemporary Ballet (Sept. 29–30), Harlem Quartet (Oct. 2), Kishi Bashi and the UGA Symphony Orchestra (Oct. 6) and many, many more. Please make your plans now, and see pac.uga.edu for tickets and all other relevant information. f

JUNE 1, 2022· F L A GP OL E .C OM

feature

Sloan Brothers

FROM RECORDIST TO RECORDING ARTIST

By Jessica Smith music@flagpole.com

MIKE WHITE · DEADLYDESIGNS.COM

music

or over two decades, recordist Sloan Simpson has documented performances in the Athens and Atlanta music scenes through live taping. His archive, Southern Shelter, exists as a rich catalog of interesting acts, many of which have long come and gone. When the COVID pandemic left his hobby on ice, Simpson shifted gears to make music of his own. Working under the moniker Sloan Brothers, his debut album System Update features a star-studded cast of notable Athens musicians, reflecting the enduring friendships he’s made along the way. Though Simpson played in rock and jazz groups growing up, his musical pursuits were sidelined after a serious car accident left him with a broken collarbone at age 20. His injury eventually healed, but he drifted away from playing, and it’d be another 25 years before he owned an instrument again. The lasting effects of this pivotal life event are alluded to on “Anxiety,” a buoyant track that juxtaposes its dance beat with lyrics about managing symptoms. Here, Simpson is joined by Kevin Sweeney (Hayride), Jason NeSmith (Casper & The Cookies), Derek Almstead (Faster Circuits), Clay Leverett (Lona), and Carlton Owens (Cracker), who appears throughout the album. It wasn’t until the pandemic brought the entertainment industry to a screeching halt in March 2020 that Simpson began rekindling his personal interest in playing music. Losing the Caledonia Lounge later that year, where he had a permanent recording setup installed, was particularly crushing. Unable to record live bands while venues remained indefinitely shuttered, he mixed all of the recordings he had left on hard drives, exhausted his television watch list and began to feel boredom creep in. One day, while mixing an ambient track for a friend, he tried adding a synth bass drone as an experiment. This opened a door to new territory, and within a few days, he picked up additional synth plugins and a MIDI controller, and wrote his first song, “For You.” Soon after, he bought a guitar and a bass, and began churning out the tunes that would eventually become System Update. “Three dozen people eventually recorded parts for the album,” says Simpson. “These were all people I know from recording their acts over the last 20 years and had become friends with. In some cases, they were chosen because their playing fit an existing song. In other cases, I wrote the song with specific musicians in mind for it.

“One choice was definitely a superfan moment, and that was asking Daniel Hutchens to record a vocal [on ‘Cryin’ Shame’] not long before he passed away last year. I’ve been seeing Bloodkin since 1994 and have recorded them more than any other band, so while I’m honored by all the folks who helped on this record, I was particularly excited to have Danny sing.” Released May 13 via Science Project Records, the album reflects a wide range of influences as diverse as the contributing artists themselves. Inspired by his best friend’s daughter, “Cleopatra Echo” is a joyous and hopeful instrumental track—guest starring Neal Fountain (Col. Bruce Hampton) and John Neff (The Pink Stones) on guitar and pedal steel respectively—that recalls the psychedelic meanderings of the jam band glory days. The album’s opening title track, meanwhile, borrows the talents of Dylan Adams (Nineveh’s Garden) and Chris McNeal and Mike Albanese

(Maserati) for a retro-futuristic sci-fi dystopian disco. Of the album’s tracks, Simpson considers “Love You So Good” to have been the most cathartic to write. For this tender and touching tune, he was joined by Patterson Hood and Jay Gonzales (Drive-By Truckers), David Barbe (Sugar), Claire and Paige Campbell (Hope for Agoldensummer), Robert Schneider (Apples in Stereo) and Owens. Named after a Southernism his mother would frequently say, the bittersweet tribute is immediately relatable and reflects on the unconditional love a mother has for her child, as well as the sorrow of losing a parent. “My mother died five years before I wrote it, and I’d gotten to the point in my grief where any tears for her were a welcome remembrance,” says Simpson. “I was still occasionally reaching for the phone to call one of my parents before remembering both of them had passed. But that feels good to me, I don’t want to forget anyone I’ve lost. I’d rather cry for someone than not think of them. “People have had a range of strong reactions to this song, but when I first played it back the day after recording the basic tracks, I was ecstatic. I’d had doubts about whether I could just deem myself an artist at then-47 years old, but when ‘Love You So Good’ happened, I thought ‘No, I have at least some amount of talent for this.’ It was an early song, so it helped me give myself permission to keep creating.” Though Simpson has received well-intentioned encouragement from friends to perform live, Sloan Brothers was designed as a recording project with many nuanced elements that don’t readily translate to an in-person production. Just as the music was created during a time when venues were on hiatus, these are songs best experienced as audio recordings. “So much of what I like in my own music is about the arrangements, layering, little things that you only hear on repeated listens, fine details,” says Simpson. “I won’t be playing live for a long list of reasons, but the main one is that a live performance of this music is so far from the sounds I heard in my head when making it. I can’t accomplish with 4-6 musicians what took me 50 tracks to record, and don’t want to hear it that way.” Rather than risk compromising the project’s intended sound through a modified performance, Sloan Brothers will celebrate the LP release of System Update with a free listening party at the 40 Watt Club on Friday, July 1 at 8 p.m. The lineup includes Robert Schneider, Jay Gonzales, Hayride and additional guests. f

June 24–26

Volunteering Rocks! AthFest Music & Arts Festival needs volunteers ages 16+ (parent/guardian required for under 18). Choose your shift & task on our website. Volunteers receive a t-shirt, free parking and snacks during their shifts. Come join the fun! athfest.com/athfest-volunteers

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 1, 2022

SALON, INC. 2440 West Broad St., Suite 2 706-548-2188 www.alaferasalon.com

live music calendar Tuesday 31

Georgia Theatre Rooftop 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10–15. www.georgiatheatre.com GROCER Multi-vocalist band from Philadelphia influenced by art-punk and Britpop. MONSOON Three-piece outfit informed by punk, art-rock and new wave. HEFFNER Members of Wanderwild, Grand Vapids and New Madrid balance driving power pop and dreamy bedroom R&B. Southern Brewing Co., Monroe 7 p.m. www.sobrewco.com FUNKY BLUESTER Blues outfit inspired by traditional Chicago and Texas styles.

Wednesday 1

Thursday 2 40 Watt Club 8 p.m. (doors). $7 (adv.), $10. www.40watt.com THE KEN-HO CARAVAN Wil Kendrick-Holmes performs. Georgia Theatre Rooftop 7 p.m. (doors). $10. www.georgia theatre.com DIRTBIKE Summery Lo-fi pop from Boynton Beach, FL. NINA GARBUS Atlanta-based experimental pop artist. EXIT ROW Guitar-driven pop band with members of Eagle Scout, Needle Teeth and Nuclear Tourism. MEDUSA PHASE Eclectic electronic pop from Tallahassee, FL. Hendershot’s Coffee 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com BICHOS VIVOS Local band playing forró, accordion and triangle-driven country music from Brazil every first Thursday of the month. Southern Brewing Co. 7 p.m. (doors), 7:30 (show). $25

ECHOES OF SAVAGES Hard rock group from Atlanta. The Sound Track 9 p.m. $10. 678-740-3884 AFRO CARIBBEAN 1ST FRIDAYS Dance to a mix of reggae, afro-beat, hip hop, dancehall and salsa. Tonight is a birthday bash for Mokah Jasmine Johnson. Free entry for geminis and ladies (until 10:30 p.m.) with RSVP. Southern Brewing Co. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $7 (adv.), $10. www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA SIMPLE LIFE BAND Roots and blues band playing covers as well as original music from lead Jimmy Wooten. JANET & THE BLUE DOGS Local band playing blues and classic rock.

Saturday 4 Athentic Brewing Co. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com MAURA STREPPA Nashvillebased singer-songwriter who describes her music as “country meets soul meets pop.”

Friday 3 40 Watt Club 8 p.m. (doors). $15 (adv.), $20. ww.40watt.com BAGTALK TOUR Nashville-based business BagTalk Talent Co. presents Leader Slim, Cartier Hendrix, Lamufullyloaded, 808SPinZ and PunchmeinJay. Buvez 7–10 p.m. FREE! www.facebook. com/darkentriesathens DARK ENTRIES KARAOKE Sing your favorite song from a curated catalog of classic to modern goth, post-punk, punk and industrial. Georgia Theatre 7:30 p.m. (doors), 8:30 p.m. (show). $39.50–45. www.georgia theatre.com STILL WOOZY Genre-bending bedroom-pop by California artist Sven Gamsky. MAZIE Glossy, carefree pop. Hendershot’s Coffee 8 p.m. $8 (adv.), $10. www.hendershotsathens.com REED TURCHI Nashville-based artist who plays a blend of futuredesert-blues or kudzu-boogie, a style that combines his guitar roots in North Mississippi with the Saharan desert sounds of Tinariwen or Bombino. Innovation Amphitheater 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $25. www.innovation amphitheater.com BROTHERHOOD Doobie Brothers tribute band playing classics and deep cuts. International Grill & Bar 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/IGB AthensGA THE SPECTRE OF SURF Instrumental surf rock band playing originals and covers. Nowhere Bar 7 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens RAPID CHANNEL Local rock band blending elements of thrash metal, punk rock nad grunge. Celebrating the release of its debut album A Place Called Nowhere! THE MOVERS Modern progressive rock band from Grayson, GA.

features live music by Amber & Andrew Ducote, Chris Holcombe and pals, Claire Campbell, Jacob Wenzka, Luke Rushing, Max Shultz, Maxim, Organically Programmed, Panic Wave, Rick Bedell and Eddie Glikin, and The Wydelles. Front Porch Bookstore 6 p.m. FREE! cityofwinterville.com/ front-porch-bookstore SCARLET STITCH Straight-up rock and roll band from Athens. Georgia Theatre 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $25–30. www.georgiatheatre.com TECH N9NE Influential hip-hop artist and founder of the record label Strange Music. JOEY COOL A pillar of the Kansas City hip-hop scene known for dense lyrics and an effortlessly cool persona. X-RAIDED Former gang member who wrote the bulk of his material while serving 26 years in prison for murder. ¡MAYDAY! Hip-hop group from Miami, FL. Innovation Amphitheater 6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $25. www.innovationamphitheater.com END OF THE LINE Allman Broth-

include Todd Cowart, Britt Helton, Hunter Grayson, Joshua Walker, Brodye Brooks and Casey King (of Holman Autry Band), Curt Spell and Bo Hembree. Southern Brewing Co. Classic City Wrestling: Cruel Summer. 7–10 p.m. $10–20. www. sobrewco.com CLASSIC CITY JUKEBOX Tonight’s special set of octane live rock and roll will take place during matches of independent wrestling.

Sunday 5 ACC Library Live at the Library. 3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org VOICES OF TRUTH An Athens fixture for over 40 years, this choir performs contemporary gospel, traditional hymns, spirituals and anthems. Creature Comforts Brewery 3–5 p.m. www.creaturecomforts beer.com LIVE JAZZ Every Sunday afternoon. No. 3 Railroad Street 2 p.m. www.3railroad.org OPEN MIC Held the first Sunday of

VINCE AUNG

Ansonborough of Athens Ambient & Acoustic & Al Fresco & Ansonborough. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.ansonboroughofathens.com MILEY-ROTH Ambient acoustic music outdoors at the open seating patio area near Siri Thai. Every Wednesday. Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. www.athensfarmermarket.net MRJORDANMRTONKS Folk duo consisting of Tommy Jordan of String Theory and William Tonks on Dobro. Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatre andbar.com DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. Hendershot’s Coffee 7:30–10 p.m. www.hendershots athens.com OPEN MIC NIGHT Lizzy Farrell hosts an open mic the first Wednesday of every month. Signups go live on Mondays at noon on the Hendershot’s Open Mic Facebook page.

(adv.), $30. www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA PAUL THORN Eccentric purveyor of muscular roots music. GARY DOUGLAS Singer-songwriter who draws inspiration from his experience as an environmental lawyer. The World Famous Volumes Presents Lofi & Chill. 9:30 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www. facebook.com/theworldfamous athens DK Athens-based artist weaving lyrically driven truths together with Lo-fi beats. LB Femcee and choreographer with fast flows and a high energy performance. DOPE KNIFE Rapper and producer from Savannah with a laid-back boom-bap style. THEFAMILYORCHESTRA Atlanta hip-hop duo with blends of funk and soul. C. SHREVE North Carolina-based rapper, producer and teacher performing poetic lyrics over jazz influenced hip-hop beats.

tal rock band. RUBBER FEET No info available. Southern Brewing Co., Monroe 7 p.m. www.sobrewco.com FUNKY BLUESTER Blues outfit inspired by traditional Chicago and Texas styles. State Botanical Garden of Georgia Sunflower Concert Series. $5 (ages 4–13), $15–17. botgarden.uga.edu TIMI CONLEY AND THE WONDERLAND RANGERS Local rabble-rouser Timi Conley performs dance-tastic psych-pop with his allstar backing band. CLAIRE CAMPBELL Hope for Agoldensummer singer plays a set of soft, mesmerizing folk tunes.

Wednesday 8 Creature Comforts Brewery Athens Farmer Market. 5–8 p.m. www.athensfarmersmarket.net THE HUMDINGERS Local string band. Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatre andbar.com DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more. Georgia Theatre 6:30 p.m. (doors), 7:30 p.m. (show). $50–55. www.georgia theatre.com ROBERT EARL KEEN Americana musician and Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee. Georgia Theatre Rooftop 5:30 p.m. (doors), 6:30 p.m. (show). FREE! www.georgiatheatre. com GRASSLAND Local traditional and progressive bluegrass group formerly known as Grassland String Band.

Down the Line

Still Woozy performs at The Georgia Theatre on Friday, June 3. Bishop Park Athens Farmers Market. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket.net FREQ 432 Improvisational duo. Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreand bar.com THE RISHIS Shimmering tunes led by Ranjan Avasthi and Sofie Lute. JOHN KIRNAN FERNANDES Local musician playing ambient looped clarinet inspired by birdsong and Brian Eno. PILLOWINDE New Jersey-based psych-rock indie band. COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT Pittsburgh-based artist Stephen Matejka’s ambient experimental project. Forest Heights Neighborhood 145 Holly Court. 5:30–9 p.m. www. regenerators.earth/festival FOREST HEIGHTS BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL In addition to a blueberry cook-off, garden tour and craft vendors, The Blueberry Jam concert

ers Band tribute act from Nashville, TN. International Grill & Bar 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/IGB AthensGA ACQUAVIVA Larry Acquaviva, former roadie for Widespread Panic, performs rock and roll songs. Tonight’s set features Nathan Thomas O’Rourke, Josh Harper and Kevin Broome. The Pity Party 12–9 p.m. FREE! feralgalleries@ gmail.com FERAL FESTIVAL Feral Galleries presents an opening party and potluck for the “Feral Galleries Neighborhood Art Show.” Live music by Auntmoth, Kelsey Wishik, LeeAnn Peppers, Dope Knife, Project Blue Beam and more. Rialto Club 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10 (adv.). bit.ly/GuitarTownAthens GUITAR TOWN Athens country music songwriters pay tribute to ‘90s alt-country. Participants

every month. Picnics, chairs, dogs and children are welcome.

Monday 6 40 Watt Club 8 p.m. $20. www.40watt.com KRISTIN HERSH After establishing the band Throwing Muses at the age of 14, Hersh has gone on to release 11 solo albums and author several books. FRED ABONG The former Throwing Muses bassist shares tunes off of his recently released album, Yellowthroat.

Tuesday 7 Flicker Theatre & Bar 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreand bar.com THE DEAD BOLTS Rock band from the south side of Chicago. GOODHOST New local instrumen-

6/9 The Curls, Dolphin Group, Locate S1 (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 6/9 Wade Newbury (Athentic Brewing Co.) 6/11 New West Fest (Southern Brewing Co.) 6/12 Live Jazz (Creature Comforts Brewery) 6/12 The Lucky Jones (Cali N Tito’s Eastside) 6/13 Pinkerton Raid, Newport Transplant (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 6/14 Poose The Puppet, Cookie Tongue, Peepa Show, Short, Turtle Grenade (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 6/14 Funky Bluester (Southern Brewing Co., Monroe) 6/15 Dr. Fred’s Karaoke (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 6/16 “Beauty of the Struggle” (Festival Hall) 6/17 Dark Entries Karaoke (Buvez) 6/18 Bob Hay, Swing Theory (Bishop Park) 6/19 Live Jazz (Creature Comforts Brewery) 6/21 Funky Bluester (Southern Brewing Co., Monroe) 6/22 Dr. Fred’s Karaoke (Flicker Theatre & Bar) 6/23 Athfest Kickoff Party (40 Watt Club)

JUNE 1, 2022· F L A GP OL E .C OM

bulletin board Deadline for getting listed in Bulletin Board is every THURSDAY at 5 p.m. for the print issue that comes out the following Wednesday. Online listings are updated daily. Email calendar@flagpole.com.

Art CALL FOR ARTISTS AND CURATORS (Lyndon House Arts Center) LHAC invites area artists, artist groups and curators to submit original exhibition proposals. Artists are also invited to submit images of their work for consideration for larger group or themed shows. Exhibitions may be scheduled as far out as three years. Submit an online proposal form. Deadline Sept. 20. beth.sale@accgov.com, accgov. com/lyndonhouse CALL FOR ENTRIES (Athens Institute for Contemporary Art: ATHICA) ATHICA is accepting applications for Artist-in-ATHICA residencies, Solo-Duo-Trio exhibitions and internships. www.athica.org/membership, www.athica.org/updates/ call_2022_showcase JOKERJOKERTV CALL FOR ARTISTS (Online) JOKERJOKERtv is open to ideas and actively accepting proposals for collaboration from visual/musical/video artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit music videos, short films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www.jokerjokertv.com/ submit NEIGHBORHOOD ART SHOW (The Pity Party) Feral Galleries is hosting an art show of all ages and abilities. Submit up to three pieces with the first submission guaranteed to be included. Email images, name, title, medium and price or drop off in-person on June 1–2, 3–7 p.m. Event held June 4, 12–9 p.m. feral galleries@gmail.com OPEN STUDIOS (Lyndon House Arts Center) Studio members have access to spaces for painting, printmaking, photography, ceramics, jewelry, fiber and woodworking. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. $65/month. www. accgov.com/7350/Open-StudioMembership

Classes ACTING FOR CAMERA AND STAGE (work.shop) Learn how to act with professional actor and coach Jayson Warner Smith (“The Walking Dead,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Outer Banks”). Mondays, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. $400/12 sessions. jwsclassinquiry@jaysonsmith.com, www.jaysonsmith.com/teacher AQUA AEROBICS (Memorial Park Pool) Try out a variety of stretching, limbering and weight routines set to music in the pool. Tuesdays–Thursdays, 6–7 p.m. Saturdays, 10–11 a.m. $5/class. 706-613-3580 ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop) Classes are held in digital art, handmade books, drawing fundamentals, watercolor, landscape painting, linocut printmaking, printing on fabric and more. Check website for dates and to register. www.kaartist.com CHAIR YOGA (Sangha Yoga Studio) This class is helpful for flexibility, strength, balance and increasing circulation and energy. All levels

welcome. Every Thursday, 12–1 p.m. $16 (drop-in), $72 (six weeks). 706-613-1143 CLAY CLASSES (Good Dirt) Registration opens on the 15th of every month for the following month’s classes and workshop. Classes range from wheel, unique handles, hand building sculpture and more. Studio membership is included in class price. www.gooddirt.net COMMUNITY MEDITATION (Rabbit Hole Studios) Jasey Jones leads a guided meditation suitable for all levels that incorporates music, gentle movement and silence. Wednesdays, 6–7 p.m. jaseyjones@gmail. com DEDICATED MINDFULNESS PRACTITIONERS (Online) Weekly Zoom meditations are offered every Saturday at 8:30–9:30 a.m. Email for details. richardshoe@gmail.com LINE DANCE (Multiple Locations) Lessons for beginners and beyond are held every first, third and fifth Tuesday, 6:30–8:30 p.m. The second and fourth Tuesdays offer evenings of line dancing, two-step and waltz. Third Tuesdays are hosted at the Bogart Community Center. Other nights are held at Athens VFW. $10. ljoyner1722@att.net MINDFULNESS PRACTICE EVENINGS (Online) Discuss and practice how to change your relationship with difficult thoughts and emotions. Email for the Zoom link. Second Friday of the month, 6–7 p.m. FREE! mfhealy@bellsouth.net MORE LETTING THE LIGHT IN: WRITING AND CRAFTING OUR UNIQUE STORIES (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) This interactive class focuses on therapeutic and creative aspects of writing. Create your own self-care journal. June 1, 5:30–7:30 p.m. $160–180. www.ocaf.com NATURAL DYE WORKSHOP (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation: OCAF) Beatrice Brown leads a two-day workshop covering the basics of natural dyeing processes including extraction of the dye from botanical materials. July 9–10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $175–225. www. ocaf.com OPEN/COMMUNITY MEDITATION (Sangha Yoga Studio at Healing Arts Centre) Uma Rose leads a meditation designed to guide participants into stillness and silence. Mondays, 4–5 p.m. Donations encouraged. www.healingarts centre.net PAINTING CLASSES (Private Studio on Athens Eastside) One-on-one or small group adult classes are offered in acrylic and watercolor painting. Choose day workshops, ongoing weekly classes or feedback sessions. laurenadamsartist@ icloud.com PUBLIC DANCE (The Studio Athens) Beginner Rumba lessons followed by DJ’d waltz, swing, salsa, tango etc. Every fourth Saturday. 7:30–10 p.m. $5 (students), $10 (non-students). www.gmdance.com SPANISH CLASSES (Athens, GA) For adults, couples and children. Learn from experts with years of professional experience. Contact

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 1, 2022

for details. 706-372-4349, marinabilbao75@gmail.com, www.marina-spain-2020.squarespace.com YOGA CLASSES AND EVENTS (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) “Yoga Flow and Restore with Nicole Bechill” is held Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Online classes include “Trauma Conscious Yoga with Crystal” Thursdays at 6 p.m. and “Yoga for Wellbeing with Nicole Bechill” on Saturdays at 10:45 a.m. “Summer Yoga Session with SJ Ursrey” is held in-person or online Mondays, June 6–Aug. 1 (skip July 4), 6:30–7:45 p.m. $120. www. revolutiontherapyandyoga.com YOGA (Elixir Movement Arts, Mercury A.I.R.) Build a yoga practice, deepen connections to yourself and others, and learn to use yoga in everyday life. The six-week series is held Wednesdays beginning June 8, 12–1 p.m. $130. “Vinyasa Flow” is also offered Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. $10/class. shelleydownsyoga@gmail.com, www.shelleydownsyoga.offering tree.com YOGA TEACHER TRAINING (Shakti Power Yoga Athens) Deepen your practice and learn to teach others in person and online during this 200-hour yoga teacher training. June 11–17 and July 9–15. www. shaktiyogaathens.com/shakti-yogauniversity ZOOM YOGA (Online) Rev. Elizabeth Alder offers “Off the Floor Yoga” (chair and standing) on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. and “Easy on the Mat” yoga classes on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Ongoing classes are $5/class or $18/month. 706-612-8077, ommmever@yahoo.com

Events ART EVENTS (Georgia Museum of Art) “Curator Talk: ‘Carrie Mae Weems: The Usual Suspects” is held June 1, 2 p.m. “Graphic Eloquence: American Modernism on Paper from the Collection of Michael T. Ricker” is held June 2, 2 p.m. “90 Carlton” is held June 3, 6:30 p.m. “Toddler Tuesday: Outside Art” is held June 7, 10 a.m. “Tour at Two” is held June 8 at 2 p.m. www.georgiamuseum.org THE ARTIST’S WAY STUDY GROUP (24th Street Clubhouse, 150 Collins Industrial Blvd.) A gathering of artists, musicians, writers and creatives meet to discuss the book The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron. Every Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Donations welcome. beth@ beththompsonphotography.com, www.24thstreetathens.com ATHENS CHAUTAUQUA SOCIETY (Morton Theatre) “Pauli Murray: Confronting the Law” will be held June 12, 3 p.m. FREE! “Robert F. Kennedy: Keeping the Peace” will be held June 12, 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenschq.org ATHENS FARMERS MARKET (Multiple Locations) Shop fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods, a variety of arts and crafts, and live music. Additionally,

AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent at the market. Every Saturday at Bishop Park, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Every Wednesday at Creature Comforts Brewing Co., 5–8 p.m. www.athens farmersmarket.net ATHENS SHOWGIRL CABARET (Multiple Locations) Celebrate National Pride Month and Miss Alice D’s birthday during Drag for All at Hendershot’s Coffee on June 4, 8 p.m. Fabulous Friday is held at Sound Track Bar on June 24, 9 p.m. Country Night is held at Hendershot’s Coffee on July 17, 8 p.m. Fabulous Friday will have a Britney vs. Christina theme at Sound Track Bar on July 22, 9 p.m. www.athens showgirlcabaret.com BLACK PANTHER FILM SCREENING (Morton Theatre) Wakanda forever. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their best Wakanda-inspired outfits for a photo op. June 5, 3 p.m. FREE! (with reserved ticket). www.mortontheatre.com BOGART LIBRARY EVENTS (Bogart Library) “KnitLits Knitting Group” is held every Thursday at 6 p.m. “Bogart Bookies Adult Book Club” will discuss Everything is Illuminated by Jonathan Safran Foer on June 7 at 1 p.m. “Crochet Basics” is held June 14 at 6 p.m. www. athenslibrary.org/bogart CLASSIC CITY PETANQUE CLUB (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled play days are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. vicepresident@ athenspetanque.org CLASSIC CITY WRESTLING (Southern Brewing Co.) Regional wrestlers face off in “Cruel Summer.” Live music by Classic City Jukebox. June 4, 7 p.m. $10–20. www.facebook.com/classiccitywrestling706 FOREST HEIGHTS BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL (Forest Heights Neighborhood) The Blueberry Cook-off will be held 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at 145 Holly Court. An Open-Yard Tour featuring an edible and ecological landscape will be held at 2 p.m. at 515 Forest Heights Drive. The Blueberry Jam concert will be held 5:30–9 p.m. at 145 Holly Court with Claire Campbell, The Wydelles, Organically Programmed, Jacob Wenzka and others. June 4. FREE! www.regenerators.earth/ festival FROM 1619 TO JUNETEENTH (Online) The ACC Library and local chapter of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History present “From 1619 to Juneteenth: Slavery and the Law Before the Civil War.” June 5, 2 p.m. www.accgov.com/9984/ Junteenth GEORGIA WRITERS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION (UGA Special Collections Building, Room 285) Inductee Jericho Brown will deliver a poetry reading and participate in a Q&A discussion. Registration required. June 16, 6 p.m. lnessel@ uga.edu GORGEOUS GEORGE’S IMPROV LEAGUE (Buvez) Come out for some home-grown townie improv. Bring some interesting suggestions and a loose funny bone to help create some improv magic on the spot. Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flying squidcomedy.com HENDERSHOT’S EVENTS (Hendershot’s Coffee) Disconnect to con-

Currently on view at the Georgia Museum of Art through Aug. 7, “Call and Response” is a selection of works from the museum’s permanent collection that considers the intersection of race and representation. Pictured above is “Donovan” by Sheila Pree Bright. nect during No Phone Parties with a phone-free, laptop-free happy hour featuring drink specials, snacks, games and a record player. Every Tuesday, 6–9 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com HOMETOWN PARTY (The Park at Five Points) Avid Bookshop hosts food writer and cookbook author Nicole A. Taylor in celebration of her newest work, Watermelon and Red Birds: A Cookbook for Juneteenth and Black Celebrations. Attendees must purchase a copy of the book to attend. June 16, 6:30 p.m. www.avidbookshop.com HOT CORNER CELEBRATION AND SOUL FOOD FEAST (Downtown Athens) The 22nd annual festival features vendors, an award ceremony, car and bike show, BBQ cook-off, games, speakers and live entertainment. June 11, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. hotcornerath@gmail.com, www.hotcornerathens.weebly.com JUNE OPEN HOUSE POTTERY SALE (Farmington Pottery) Geoff and Lisa Pickett host their annual summer sale of handmade pottery and soaps and botanical skincare products. June 4–5, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. www.pickettpottery.com JUST MERCY (Morton Theatre) This film is based on the life of young lawyer Bryan Stevenson and his history-making battle for justice for those wrongly condemned or unable to afford proper representation. June 2, 7 p.m. FREE! 706613-3800 MARGO METAPHYSICAL EVENTS (Margo Metaphysical) Monday Tarot Readings offered 1–5 p.m. ($6 per card). Tuesday Tarot with Davita offered 4–6 p.m. ($5 per card). Wednesday Night Sound Healing with Joey held 6–7:30 p.m. ($35). Thursday Tarot with Courtney is offered 12–5 p.m. ($10–45). Friday Henna Party with Aiyanna ($10–75). 706-372-1462 MERRY MEET EVERY WEEK (Rabbit Hole Studios) Meet members of the Athens Area Pagans. Current projects include planning for Athens Pagan Pride Day Festival, a community garden, photo club and more. Meetings held every Saturday, 5 p.m. Donations encouraged. beth@athensareapagans.org MOVIES BY MOONLIGHT (Sandy Creek Park) Dun-dun. Dun-dun.

Watch Jaws at the park’s beach area. Bring law chairs or blankets. June 4, 8:30 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com/leisure OCEANS OF POSSIBILITIES: FAMILY FUN DAY (ACC Library) Activities include a petting zoo, touch-a-truck, puppet show, outside games, inside crafts, Kona Ice, popcorn and more. June 4, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org OCONEE FARMERS MARKET (Oconee County Courthouse, Watkinsville) Over 20 vendors offer a variety of fresh produce, local honey, fresh-cut flowers, unique crafts, dog treats, fresh gelato, homemade pasta, locally sourced meats and eggs, plants and more. Many vendors offer pre-ordering options and curbside pickup. Saturdays, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. www. oconeefarmersmarket.net ONE DAY BOOK SALE (No. 3 Railroad St.) Friends of Oglethorpe Co. Library host a book sale. June 4, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. www.facebook.com/ OglethorpeFOL PRIDE PARADE (Downtown Athens) Athens Pride & Queer Collective will host the first-ever Pride Parade. The parade will culminate at Thomas Lay Park for a BBQueer cookout with food, music, vendors and fellowship. The event is currently seeking sponsors and parade participants including floats, walking groups and individuals. June 12, 2 p.m. www.athenspride. org/parade RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Acoustic Fire Pit Jams are held every Monday, 7–11 p.m. Flow Jam Night for flow artists and LED/fire spinners is held Thursdays from 7–11 p.m. Free music theory group lessons for guitarists are held Thursdays from 7–10 p.m. White Rabbit Collective hosts a drum circle every Sunday downtown on College Ave. from 5–7 p.m., followed by an afterparty with painting, singing, games, yoga and more from 7:30–11 p.m. www.rabbithole studios.org REALLY, REALLY FREE MARKET (Reese & Pope Park) Just like a yard sale, but everything is free. Bring what you can, take what you need. Second Saturday of every month, 12–2 p.m. reallyreallyfreemarketathens@gmail.com

REX’S EXES (Elbert Theatre) Encore Productions presents a Southern-fried comedy. June 3–4 & June 10–11, 7 p.m. June 5 & June 12, 2 p.m. $9–16. tking@cityofelberton. net RHYTHM AND MOVEMENT PLEIN AIR EVENTS (Rocket Field at Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Highlighting the current exhibition “Rhythm and Movement: The Art of Music,” OCAF hosts a series of plein air painting/drawing workshops taught by Jack Burk. Participants will listen to music as they paint. The lineup of musicians includes Lonesome Dawn (June 11, 6 p.m.). $20–25/workshop. www. ocaf.com SEXUALITY BOOK CLUB (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) This month’s all-ages Pride Month edition will discuss The Stonewall Riots: Coming Out in the Streets by Gayle E. Piman. Head down together to the Pride Parade afterwards. June 12, 10 a.m. $20–25. www.revolution therapyandyoga.com SMALL BOX SERIES (Work.Shop) Small Box presents “To Be Human” featuring poetry by John Barner, theater by Jayson Smith, comedy by Matt House and Kelly Petronis, dance by Audrey Snow, film/ theater by Phillip Gerson, music by Space Brother and dance by Alison Wakeford. All works are presented on a 4’x4’ box. June 17–18, 8 p.m. $5-15. www.smallboxseries. bigcartel.com SOUTHERN STAR STUDIO OPEN GALLERY (Southern Star Studio) Southern Star Studio is a working, collective ceramics studio, established by Maria Dondero in 2016. The gallery contains members’ work, primarily pottery. Every Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. www.southern starstudioathens.com SOUTHERN VIOLENCE & WRESTLING (The Warehouse) Live wrestling featuring Andey Ripley’s Full Term. June 25, 8 p.m. $10. www. facebook.com/southernviolenceand wrestling THURSDAY TRIVIA (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Jon Head hosts trivia every Thursday. Win pitchers and gift certificates. Thursdays, 7–9 p.m. www.johnnyspizza.com TRIAL GARDEN OPEN HOUSE (UGA Trial Garden) Tour the garden (9:30

a.m. and 10:30 a.m.) and check out the plan sale. June 11, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $5 suggested donation. uga trial.hort.uga.edu WBFM DRIVE-THRU PICK-UP (West Broad Farmers Market) The West Broad Farmers Market offers fresh produce, locally raised meat and eggs, baked goods, flowers, artisan goods and more. Order online or by phone Sundays–Thursdays, then pick up on Saturdays between 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. www.wbf.locallygrown.net WEAR ORANGE (Bishop Park Pavilion) Join survivors and volunteers to encourage support of solutions to end gun violence through the recognition of National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Wear orange and create art with the Soul Box project. Survivors are invited to bring a picture or memento of their loved one. June 4, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. FREE! athensmomsdemand@ gmail.com

Help Out DIAPER DRIVE (Bogart Library) Drop off diaper donations in the library’s foyer for the Athens Area Diaper Bank. www.athensareadiaperbank. com

Kidstuff ACC LIBRARY EVENTS (ACC Library) “Open Chess Play” is held Mondays, 3–5 p.m. “Virtual Storytime” is held Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. “Virtual Bedtime Stories” is held Tuesdays at 6 p.m. “Preschool Storytime” is held Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. www.athenslibrary.org ART CAMPS FOR PROMISING YOUNG ARTISTS (K.A. Artist Shop) Camps are offered for ages 10–12 and 13–17 and take place in-person, Mondays–Fridays during 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or 1:30–5:30 p.m. Subjects include drawing, painting, illustration, calligraphy, printmaking, collage, journaling and more. $250 (half day), $450 (full day). www.kaartist.com ART CARD CLUB (K.A. Artist Shop) Katy Lipscomb and Tyler Fisher lead weekly gatherings to create,

art around town ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY (675 Pulaski St., Suite 1500) Established by Jason Thrasher and Beth Hall Thrasher, the gallery’s grand opening features “Vernon Thornsberry: New Works in Painting, Charcoal & Sculpture.” Through June 23. ARTWALL@HOTEL INDIGO ATHENS (500 College Ave.) “Quiet Marks” presents works by Kathryn Refi, In Kyoung Choi Chun and Shirley N. Chambliss. Through July 8. ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) “Fashioning a Nation: German Identity and Industry, 1914–1945” is a touring exhibition organized to preserve the memory of the Holocaust. Through June 5. • “The Real, The Ideal” is a solo show by Lynette Caseman, a local artist who received a grant from the Athens Area Arts Council to support her work. ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “So Much More” presents Lisa Freeman’s mixed media collages and assemblages that address the limitations frequently imposed on women in a patriarchal society. Through June 25. CLASSIC CENTER (300 N. Thomas St.) “Hello, Welcome!” presents abstract worlds by Maggie Davis, Jonah Cordy, Carol MacAllister and Jason Matherly. • “Classic City” interprets the city of Athens, GA through the works of James Burns, Sydney Shores, Thompson Sewell and Allison Ward. FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Artwork by Jeff Rapier and Gary Autry. Reception June 17. Through June. GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “Carrie Mae Weems: The Usual Suspects” implicates racial stereotypes in the deaths of Black people at the hands of police and confronts the viewer with the fact of judicial inaction. Through Aug. 7. • As a visual response to Carrie Mae Weems’ exhibition, “Call and Response” is a selection of works from the museum’s collection that considers the intersection of race and representation in the works of other African American artists. Through Aug. 7. • “In Dialogue: Views of

trade and exhibit miniature masterpieces the size of playing cards. Some materials provided, but participants can bring their own as well. The club meets on Fridays, 4:30–6 p.m. (ages 10–12) and 6:30–8 p.m. (ages 13–17). www. kaartist.com ATHENS FOREST KINDERGARTEN SUMMER SESSION (Sandy Creek Park) Ages 3.5–6.5 can participate in a child-discovered curriculum in the forest. Weekly sessions run through June 21, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. $200/week. www.athensforestkindergarten.org/afk-summer-session HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH FAMILY RETREAT (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Enjoy crafts, games, nature activities and fellowship. Lunch provided. RSVP. June 18, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! panthers1028@ aol.com BOGART LIBRARY EVENTS (Bogart Library) “Busy Bee Toddler Time” for ages 12–36 months is held June 1, 8, 15 at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. “Todd Key: Cirque du Todd” is held June 2 at 3 p.m. “YA Board Game: Catan” is held June 3 at 3 p.m. “Under the Sea” is an interactive storytelling and craft event held June 4 at 11 a.m. “Monday Funday” is held June 6 and June 13 at 10 a.m. “Weird Food Night” for grades 6–12 is held June 7 at 6 p.m. “Out of the Box: Oceans of Possibility” is held June 9 at 3 p.m. “Sábado Storytime” for ages 5–7 is held June 11 at 11 a.m. Based on the MTV show, “Silent Library” for grades 6–12 is held June 14 at 6 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org/bogart CLUBS FOR TEENS (Lyndon House Arts Center) “Teen Media Arts Club with Kidd Fielteau” is held Tuesdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m. “Teen Fashion Design/Sewing Club with Tabitha Fielteau” is held Tuesdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m. GRAND SLAM TEEN SUMMER PROGRAM (Lay Park) Ages 11–17 can participate in games, giveaways, music, sports and other activities. Fridays in June and July, 6–9 p.m. www.accgov.com/ grandslam HARGRETT LIBRARY’S TODDLER TUESDAY (UGA Special Collections Library) Toddler Tuesday is a new program full of story time, music and crafts for ages 1–4.

“Welcome Summer” on June 21, “Georgia Music” on Aug. 2, “Sports!” on Sept. 20. Events held at 9:45 a.m. FREE! RSVP: jmb18449@uga.edu MAKING DANCES (work.shop) This alternative dance class teaches improvisation and choreography techniques. For ages 10–14. Taught by Lisa Yaconelli. Tuesdays, 6:15– 7:30 p.m. $60/month, $210/14 weeks. lisayaconelli@gmail.com, www.lisayaconelli.com MIDDLE CHILDHOOD ART WORKSHOPS (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Make a beachy snow globe out of a mason jar on June 11. Classes are for ages 6–12 and held 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $30–35. www. ocaf.com OCONEE LIBRARY EVENTS (Oconee Co. Library) “Storytime” for preschool children and their caregivers is held Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. “Prism” is held June 8 at 6 p.m. “Candy Sushi Making” is held June 10 at 4 p.m. “Dungeons & Dragons” is held June 13 at 6 p.m. “Movie and Snack” is held June 15 at 10:30 a.m. “Tie Dye Night” is held June 15 at 6 p.m. “Makers Market Workshop” is held June 17 at 4 p.m. “Sand Castle Competition” is held June 24 at 4 p.m. “Anime Club” is held June 27 at 7 p.m. “Deserted Island: Can You Survive?” is held June 29 at 6 p.m. www.athenslibrary.org/oconee SATURDAY CRAFT (Treehouse Kid and Craft) Each week’s craft is announced on Instagram. Saturdays, 10–10:45 a.m. (ages 3–6) or 11 a.m.–12 p.m. (ages 6–10). www.treehousekidandcraft. com, www.instagram.com/tree housekidandcraft SUMMER ART CAMPS (‘Brella Studio) Paint, plant and party in a fairy tale forest during “Enchanted Forest” camp. Activities include making seed bombs, fairy houses, butterfly wings and giant paper flowers. Monday–Friday beginning June 13, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $295. During “¡Hola Casita! Encanto Theme” camp, participants will paint their own magical casita, study animals of South America and experiment with weather-inspired art techniques. Monday–Friday beginning June 20, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $295. www.brellastudio.com

Empire: Grand and Humble” displays two print collections that create a conversation about what it meant to be a working-class citizen in mid-19th-century Russia. Through Aug. 21. • “Jennifer Steinkamp: The Technologies of Nature.” Through Aug. 21. • “Graphic Eloquence: American Modernism on Paper from the Collection of Michael T. Ricker.” Through Sept. 4. GLASSCUBE@INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Zane Cochran presents “Aurora,” a sculptural interpretation of the aurora borealis using 3D geometric figures and lights. THE GRIT (199 Prince Ave.) Mike Shetterley shares recent abstract paintings inspired by gardens and landscapes. Through June 15. HEIRLOOM CAFE (815 N. Chase St.) The Boulevard Neighborhood Young Artists, ages 2–18, present an exhibition of their latest creations. Through June 27. JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Susan Pelham’s collages are influenced by Magic Realism, Surrealism, fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Through June. LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) AJ Aremu presents a largescale installation for “Window Works,” a site-specific series that utilizes the building’s front entrance windows for outdoor art viewing. • Collections from our Community presents Tatiana Veneruso’s collection of vintage purses that represent over 100 years of handbag history. Collector’s Talk held June 2, 6 p.m. Through June 4. • Lucile Stephens’ paintings and hand-built ceramic works are fantastical, inventive and many times inspired by flora and fauna. Through June 18. • “Local Athenian: One Degree of Separation” shares portraits of local residents taken by Emily Cameron for her website, which shares stories through interviews and photographs. Through June 18. MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 S. Main St., Madison) On view in the Collector’s Cabinet is a display of Chinese Export Porcelain owned by the Morehouse family. Through June. • “Earth Bound: David Drake and Zipporah Camille Thompson” brings new light to the life and work of Drake, an enslaved African-American whose works of pottery from the mid-1800s are now sought world-wide. A second installation features ceramic work by contemporary artist Thompson. Through July 16.

SUMMER CAMPS (Foxfire Woods and Farm, Nicholson) Join certified nature staff for outdoor learning and adventure on a 54 acre farm and nature sanctuary. For ages 5–12. www.foxirewoodsandfarm.com/ summercamps SUMMER CAMPS (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation, Watkinsville) Camps are offered in clay (hand building, wheel throwing) and writing (poetry, fiction, college essays). Check website for dates and age groups. www.ocaf.com WILD EARTH CAMP (Piedmont Preserve) An adventure camp in the forest for ages 4–13. Weeklong camps begin June 13, June 20, July 11 and July 25. Register online. www.piedmont-preserve.org YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS SUMMER SERIES (Goodwill, 4070 Lexington Rd.) College Factory presents a five-week program in partnership with the Minority Business Nonprofit Association and Goodwill of North Georgia. Open to students in grades 9–12. Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and Thursdays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., June 1-29. FREE! brittany@collegefactory.org, www. collegefactory.org

Support Groups ACA ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS AND DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) This support group meets weekly. Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. annetteanelson@gmail.com AL-ANON 12 STEP (Multiple Locations) Recovery for people affected by someone else’s drinking. Visit the website for a calendar of electronic meetings held throughout the week. www.ga-al-anon.org FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP (ACC Library, Classroom A) Alzheimer’s Association Georgia presents a support group conducted by trained facilitators that is a safe place for those living with dementia and their caregiver to develop a support system. First Wednesday of every month, 6–7:30 p.m. 706206-6163, www.alz.org/georgia LGBTQIA+ VIRTUAL ALPHABET FAMILY GATHERING (Online) This is a safe space for anyone on the LGBTQIA+/TGQNB spectrum.

Fourth Sunday of every month, 6–8 p.m. uuathensga.org/justice/ welcoming-congregation MENTAL HEALTH PEER RECOVERY GROUP (Nuçi’s Space) Participants support each other through life’s challenges by sharing from their skills, experiences and proven coping mechanisms. Newcomers welcome. First Tuesday of the month, 4–6 p.m. pr@nuci.org, www.nuci.org PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP (First Baptist Church) This group is to encourage, support and share information with fellow sojourners who manage the challenges of Parkinson’s disease or other movement disorders. Second Friday of every month, 1 p.m. gpnoblet@ bellsouth.net RECOVERY DHARMA (Recovery Dharma) This peer-led support group offers a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from any addiction. Visit the website for details. Thursdays, 7 p.m. FREE! www.athens recoverydharma.org SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS (Athens, GA) Athens Downtown SAA offers a message of hope to anyone who suffers from a compulsive sexual behavior. Contact for location. www.athensdowntownsaa.com

Word on the Street FREE COVID-19 VACCINES (Clarke County Health Department) Vaccines are available by appointment or walk-in. No insurance or ID required. www.publichealthisfor everyone.com POOL SEASON (Multiple Locations) ACC Leisure Services pools are open through July 31. $1/person, $20/season pass. Pools are located at Bishop Park, Heard Park, Lay Park and Rocksprings Park. Check website for hours. www.accgov. com/aquatics SUPPORT FOR SENIORS WITH PETS (Athens, GA) The Athens Area Humane Society and Athens Community Council on Aging have partnered to offer support services to seniors enrolled in ACCA programs. This includes emergency pet fostering, affordable wellness care, pet health workshops and pet training. www.accaging.org f

OCONEE COUNTY LIBRARY (1080 Experiment Station Rd.) Artwork by Bobbi Johnson. Through June. OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville) “43rd Georgia Watercolor Society National Exhibition” presents works by 79 different artists from across the state. • “Rhythm & Movement: The Art of Music” explores the intersection between music and visual arts. Artists created pieces in response to hearing songs by local artists of various genres. Through June 3. THE PITY PARTY (450 Nacoochee Ave.) Feral Galleries hosts a “Neighborhood Art Show.” Live performances by Auntmoth, Kelsey Wishik, LeeAnn Peppers, Dope Knife, Project Blue Beam and more. June 4, 12–9 p.m. STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA (2450 S. Milledge Ave) Cameron Berglund, a local artist and lecturer at UGA’s College of Environmental Design, presents a collection of plein air watercolor sketches and landscape-inspired illustrations. Through June 26. STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART (4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead) “Mother Tongue: The Language of Families” includes Steffen Thomas’ paintings, drawings and sculptures that were shaped by powerful prose and poetry. Through Father’s Day Poetry Workshop held June 11. Currently on view through June 23. TIF SIGFRIDS (393 N. Finley St.) Los Angeles-based artist Mimi Lauter presents a solo exhibition of paintings. Closing reception June 18, 4–6 p.m. UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “Frankie Welch’s Americana: Fashion, Scarves and Politics” explores the life of a Georgia native who owned a Virginia boutique, designing scarves and dresses used in political campaigns and events and worn by women throughout the country in the 1960s and ‘70s. Through July 8. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS (780 Timothy Rd.) Rodney Graiger’s exhibit “Black and White” includes large drawings on paper that portray recollections of private spaces where racial distinctions were often blurred by never fully erased. On view June 3–July 28 on Sundays and by appointment. Juneteenth reception held June 19 at 12:30 p.m.

JUNE 1, 2022· F L A GP OL E .C OM

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Friendly man to share an apartment or a house. Must be a non-smoker. What do you have? I’m from NY state, but a former Athens resident. Call Richard: 585-443-9974

Athens School of Music. Now offering in-person and online instruction in guitar, bass, drums, piano, voice, brass, woodwinds, strings, banjo, mandolin and more. From beginner to expert, all styles. Visit www.athens schoolofmusic.com, 706543-5800.

Songwriter/solo artist seeks female singer for ongoing studio project. I record and release original pop/rock songs. Opportunities include pitching songs to major artists and royalty potential. Contact Jeff at 404-5455751.

ROOMMATE WANTED: Private bedroom and bath. Shared kitchen, W/D, and living area. NON-SMOKER. $700/month, utilities (G, W, E, WiFi) included. At Gaines School Road and Cedar Shoals, on bus line. Must provide first and last months’ rents, pass background, and provide references and rental history. Students need qualified cosigner. A veterinary, nursing, medical, or biology background has potential to assume some duties in lieu of rent. No pets because there is a resident cat. Lease is 10–12 months. Contact anste801@gmail. com.

VOICE LESSONS: Experienced teacher (25+ years) currently expanding studio. Ages 12–90+, all genres. Contact stacie.court@gmail. com or 706-424-9516.

MUSIC SERVICES I n s t a n t c a s h is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records, at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428. Place an ad in the Flagpole Classifieds today!

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PLACE AN AD • Call our Classifieds Dept. 706-549-0301 • Email us at class@flagpole.com

• Deadline to place ads is 11:00 a.m. every Monday for the following Wednesday issue • All ads must be prepaid

F L A GP OL E .C OM · JUNE 1, 2022

SERVICES CLEANING Peachy Green Clean Cooperative, your local friendly green cleaners! Free estimates. Call us today: 706248-4601

MISC. SERVICES ALL INCLUSIVE BLESSINGS: Joyful wedding ceremonies, Heartfelt memorials, House blessings. Loving, all-inclusive ceremonies for everyone! Contact Rev. A.E. Alder: a.e.celeblessings@ gmail.com

JOBS FULL-TIME Advertise job openings in the Flagpole Classifieds!

Apparel and poster screen printing company RubySue Graphics is looking for a fulltime printing press assistant. Located just 2.5 miles from downtown Athens. Must be able to multitask, have a good eye for detail and be able to lift 40 lbs. Work hours are Mon–Fri., 9 a.m.–6 p.m. w/ hour lunch break. Contact jobs@rubysuegraphics.com to set up an on-site interview and for more information. Classic City Installation Starting at $18/hr. Summer seasonal performing furniture installation. Great benefits, travel as a team w/ food stipend and lodging 100% covered. Email: caswall@ classiccityinstallation.com Condor Chocolates seeks an energetic, organized individual who works well in a team setting for our Downtown Cafe Manager. Competitive pay, benefits and potential for growth! Please email resumes to jobsatcondor@gmail.com Taste of India is now hiring! (Busser, host, floater team member.) Competitive pay, paid weekly, employee meals, flexible schedules, full-time or part-time, no experience needed. $12–15. APPLY IN PERSON.

Jinya Ramen Bar Athens is now hiring for line cooks. Looking for positive, dependable cooks to prepare highquality delicious ramen noodle dishes and more with precise recipes. Apply today at rose@xcramen.com and join our real ramen culture! Old Guard Graphics is seeking an experienced Graphic Designer to join our in-house art team. You will be creating designs for t-shirts and various other types of custom printed apparel. Candidates with a background in apparel design are preferred. Please email resume & link to portfolio or examples of work to info@oldguardgraphics.com UberPrints is now hiring for multiple positions! Both full and part-time positions available. For more information and applications, go to uberprints.com/company/jobs White Tiger is now hiring for all positions at the Athens location and the new Watkinsville location! No experience necessary. Email work history or resume to catering@whitetiger gourmet.com Flagpole ♥s our readers!

ADOPT ME! ACC Animal Services 125 Buddy Christian Way 706-613-3540 Call for appointments. Available animals can be seen online at www.accgov.com/257/Available-Pets Athens Area Humane Society 1030 Mitchell Bridge Rd 706-769-9155 Due to reduced business hours, call if you are interested in adopting. Available animals can be seen online at : www.athenshumanesociety.org

DONATE! FOSTER! ADOPT! THANKS!

OPPORTUNITIES Do you like driving, know your way around town and need some extra cash? Flagpole needs a reliable pool of substitute drivers for when our regular drivers are out! Email frontdesk@flagpole.com to be included in emails about future Distribution opportunities.

PART-TIME Learn to be a transcriptionist at our South Milledge location! No customer interaction. Work independently, set your own schedule (16–40 hours, M–F weekly). Relaxed, casual, safe space office environment. Extremely flexible time-off arrangements with advance notice. New increased compensation plan. Start at $13 hourly. Make up to $20 or more with automatic performance-based compensation increases. Show proof of vaccination at hire. Selfguided interview process. Hours: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. www. ctscribes.com Mike Wheeler Landscape. Landscaping/gardening positions available. Good pay w/ experience. Part-time. Flexible hours. Call Mike Wheeler: 706-202-0585, mwwheeler1963@gmail.com

NOTICES MESSAGES All Georgians over the age of five are eligible for COVID vaccines, and ages 12+ are eligible for boosters! Call 706-340-0996 or visit www. publichealthathens.com for more information. COVID testing available in West Athens (3500 Atlanta Hwy. Mon– Fri., 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. & Sat., 8 a.m.–12 p.m. At the old Fire Station on the corner of Atlanta Hwy. & Mitchell Bridge Rd. near Aldi and Publix.) Pre-registration is highly encouraged! Visit www.publichealthathens.com for more information. Flagpole ♥s our advertisers and donors!

SUDOKU

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

8 6 3 1 3

2 4 7 9

4 7 2 6 5 8

7 3 5 4 8

8 4 6 3

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 the numbers 1 to 9. Week of 5/30/22 - 6/5/22

The Weekly Crossword 1

4 9 33 3 39 5 43 8 6 47 2 7 58 1 63 23

8 5 35 6 1 7 2 9 51 3 4

1 27 4 2 8 6 3 48 7 5 9

7 628 9 4 244 5 352 1 8

524 3 8 7 9 149 4 660 2

6 1 5 940 3 4 853 2 764

19 22

3 925 8 2 436 7 2 641 145 5 7 850 5 1 961 4 6 3

26 29

30 37

FULLY VACCINATED?

38 42

62 65

ACROSS 1 Part of NASA 6 Camera diaphragm 10 Utah ski resort 14 Traffic director 15 Yard entrance 16 Card game start 17 String instrument 18 MSRP 20 Michael J. Fox birthplace 22 Give comfort to 23 Blacken 24 Rail rider 26 ___ and vigor 27 More than cool 30 Legal wrongdoing 33 Support beam 36 Sag in the sun 38 Far-many link 39 Freeze up 41 Golfer's booking 43 Be a couch potato 44 Online craft store 46 Boxer's gear 47 Trim to fit, maybe 49 For the most part 51 Bashful 53 Map out

21 Solution to Sudoku:

2 7 34 1 3 4 9 6 8 59 5

by Margie E. Burke 9

ARE YOU

54 For fear that 58 Double-cross 61 Able to read and write 63 Parthenon site 65 Theater boxes 66 Take out of the freezer 67 ___ and dine 68 Evergreen shrub 69 Saddle feature 70 Tripod trio 71 Fluid build-up DOWN 1 Stashes away 2 Lion group 3 Bakery lure 4 Grand Canyon river 5 He played a young Obi-Wan 6 Block houses 7 Sherbet variety 8 Computer pros 9 Adjusts a clock 10 Highly skilled 11 Recurring musical theme 12 RPM indicator 13 Direction at sea

19 Personal angle: Abbr. 21 Legalese adverb 25 Leave out 28 "___ Only Just Begun" 29 Like evening gowns 31 City in "Eat Pray Love" 32 Kids' little piggies 33 Fundraiser's plea 34 Type of tea 35 College official 37 Archer of legend 40 Host's request 42 Way that makes you pay 45 Fan activity 48 Bucked off 50 Pay increases 52 Go on and on 55 Bird of prey 56 Geyser output 57 Edison contemporary 58 Soaking site 59 Canyon call 60 Canine cry 62 Threat ender 64 Taradiddle

FREE COVID-19 VACCINATIONS + boosters

available at your county

HEALTH DEPARTMENT NortheastHealthDistrict.com/covidvaccine

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

JUNE 1, 2022· F L A GP OL E .C OM