FP230503

From Art Cars to Art Markets p. 8

flagpole

CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2023!

THE MAY 17TH ISSUE OF FLAGPOLE WILL BE DEDICATED TO THIS YEAR’S GRADUATES. Show your grad how proud you are by featuring them in our Congrats to Grads section.

We are offering 2 sizes of ads that include student’s name, school, photos and your message. Option 1: $75 • Option 2: $50

GO TO WWW.GRADS.FLAGPOLE.COM TO SET UP YOUR AD! NEW DEADLINE TO SUBMIT ADS IS MONDAY, MAY 8TH.

Send questions

Armani Nichole Reed

CEDAR SHOALS

Congratulations!!! Always remember that you are braver than you believe, smarter than you think, and loved more than you’ll ever know.

John 3:16

Love Mom, Dad, EJ and, Bryce

2023 finalists:

Whitley Walter

Alanna

UGA LAW SCHOOL

Congrats Alanna, hard work always pays off! We are so, so, so proud of you!

Love, Dad, Mom and Brothers

athens’ favorite electrician

Dylan Loftin Erin Lovett (Four Eyes) Night Palace Trvy (Trevor Wiggins) Cardynal

NEWS:

Climate Change Play

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER Alicia Nickles

PUBLISHER Pete McCommons

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Larry Tenner

ADVERTISING SALES Fabienne Mack, Jessica Pritchard Mangum

CITY EDITOR Blake Aued

ARTS & MUSIC EDITOR Jessica Smith

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Sam Lipkin

OFFICE MANAGER & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Zaria Gholston

CLASSIFIEDS Zaria Gholston

AD DESIGNERS Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson

PHOTOGRAPHER Suzannah Evans

CONTRIBUTORS Bonita Applebum, Hillary Brown, Stanley Dunlap, Gordon Lamb, Rebecca McCarthy, Ed Tant, John Cole Vodicka, Dave Williams

CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Gerald Burris, Charles Greenleaf

EDITORIAL INTERNS Patrick Barry

COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Chris Hubbard by Jason Thrasher (see story on p. 8)

online exclusive

NEWS: news@flagpole.com

ADVICE: advice@flagpole.com

Treehouse Kid & Craft is moving from Broad Street to the Atlas complex on Barber Street in July, and it will also start selling candy, soft-serve ice cream and King of Pops popsicles. The ice cream is vegan and dairyfree, with kid- and adult-friendly toppings.

See “Treehouse Kid & Craft Is Moving” at flagpole.com.

The Georgia Museum of Art will keep its galleries open late on Thursday, May 4 for its thrice-annual Museum Mix event featuring refreshments and DJ Stella Zine. For more information, visit georgiamuseum.org.

Affordable Housing Solutions

PLUS, PROSECUTOR OVERSIGHT, THE OCONEE STREET SCHOOL AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued and Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com

It’s no secret that rents and home prices are through the roof in Athens, far out of reach for anyone with a modest income (and, increasingly, middle-class households as well). Athens-Clarke County is putting together a plan to boost the supply of affordable housing—but it won’t be cheap.

First, some definitions: Affordable housing is any housing that’s subsidized by the local, state or federal government—a definition that includes everything from public housing to Section 8 rentals to Habitat for Humanity homes. There’s also a shrinking amount of “naturally occurring affordable housing” (NOAH) that’s priced cheaply because of its age, condition and/or location in a less desirable neighborhood. As for what is affordable, that depends on your income. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, households should not have to spend more than 30% of their income on housing.

The problem is, housing costs have gotten out of whack with income. The median home price in Athens is $287,000, but a median-income household that makes $61,000 a year can only afford to buy a $200,000 house, according to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources compiled by the ACC Housing and Community Development Department. Similarly, the median rent is $1,214, but the median renter can, by HUD’s criteria, only afford to pay $733.

Several people who attended an affordable housing community listening session Apr. 26 reported that their rent had risen by hundreds of dollars. “My rent has increased about 40% in the last five years,” said Alejandra Calva, HCD community impact administrator. “My income hasn’t increased 40% in the last five years.”

About 11,000 renters in Athens are classified as “housing stressed,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Take a family that earns $35,000 a year. They should be spending no more than $875 a month (and it’s tough to find even a studio apartment for that price). If they’re spending, say, $1,600 a month on rent, only $1,300 is left over for all other expenses, including food, child care, health care and transportation (not including paycheck withholdings).

One reason for the lack of affordable housing is that very little has been built lately. More than 100 affordable units were built in 2014, 2015, 2017 and 2018, but only 46 since 2019. “There’s just not enough units in Athens that are affordable,” Calva said.

Companies are also buying up NOAHs, jacking up rent, and leasing those units to college students rather than low-income people who pay for housing with government vouchers. “There are just so many renters in Athens that they don’t need to accept somebody who has that voucher,” Calva said.

Especially given the current high cost of construction, a government subsidy is needed to make any new housing affordable. For example, ACC has invested about

$50 million in local sales tax revenue and federal American Rescue Plan Act funds into redeveloping Bethel Midtown Village, a partnership with the Athens Housing Authority and private developer Columbia Residential that also takes advantage of tax credits for low-income housing. That leaves little ARPA money left for new programs, though, unless the county commission opts to redirect some funds. “The need for funding is much greater than what we actually receive from the federal government,” Calva said.

If funding can be found, some ideas for growing the stock of affordable housing in Athens include: matching funds for federal tax credits, a housing trust fund to provide grants or tax incentives for affordable housing, a revolving low-interest loan fund for affordable housing developers, selling land owned by the ACC government to affordable housing developers, redeveloping public housing into denser, mixed-income communities like Bethel, and down payment assistance for low-income homebuyers. “It’s all about the money,” according to Calva.

Zoning policies could also make a difference. Allowing more diverse styles of housing and more density would bring down land and construction costs, for example. Those changes could be politically difficult, though, as neighborhood residents rarely want to accept more density.

ACC is accepting public input on affordable housing strategies through May 31. Another community forum is scheduled for Tuesday, May 9 from 10–11:30 a.m. at the Athens Community Council on Aging, or residents can go to accgov.com/arpa to learn more and provide feedback. [Blake Aued]

Gonzalez, Gaines Clash at Town Hall Meeting

State Rep. Houston Gaines (R-Athens) said nothing about a prosecutor oversight bill that he hadn’t said before. Neither did local District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez. What made a recent town hall meeting in East Athens newsworthy was that they said it to each other.

Gonzalez crashed the town hall meeting and—after Gaines responded to a hostile question about a bill creating a state oversight commission to, in Republicans’ view, “reign in” progressive prosecutors— confronted Gaines about the bill, which she says targets her for political and racial purposes.

“[Gonzalez is] trying to be fair to the people, so suddenly she’s under scrutiny,” said attendee Mary Bagby. “I think because she has a little tint to her skin, people are against her, and I think it’s horrible. It’s terrible. And I think it shows racism still in the Classic City.”

Gaines responded that Gonzalez is not enforcing the law, and said she’s lost several murder cases. “That puts public safety at risk, so are we supposed to wait another four years?” he said. The oversight commission, he said, would have the power to suspend or remove such prosecutors, allowing voters to choose another one.

“It has nothing to do with race. It has nothing to do with partisanship,” Gaines said. “There has been issue after issue on both sides of the law,” he said, citing the Ahmaud Arberry case, where multiple district attorneys refused to prosecute Arberry’s killers.

Gonzalez—who said she was not invited, but saw the event on social media and thought it was important to show up—confronted Gaines. “What’s interesting is the timing of this bill, which came out after the 2020 election, when six women of color won election around the state,” she said.

Gonzalez reiterated her assertion that the Western Circuit DA’s office is understaffed because it is not competitive on salaries. “People are leaving because they can go 20 miles down the road and make $20,000,” she said. “Wouldn’t you go? I would.” She said she recently hired three people after the Athens-Clarke County Commission approved hiring incentives. One of them is a new chief assistant from Illinois, Robert Wilso, who has 29 years of experience in criminal law, including prosecuting gang cases.

“What they can’t say is I’m not doing my job,” Gonzalez said of the oversight commission’s supporters. “What they can say is

they don’t like the way I’m doing it, because I’m not doing it the way it was done for hundreds of years before.”

Gaines, given a chance for a rebuttal, said the bill is not personal. “I just believe there are real issues in the office,” he said, including understaffing. “It’s a gross misstatement,” he said, to make the bill about race.

Gaines left the town hall meeting—organized by Commissioner Tiffany Taylor— midway through to attend another event. Rep. Spencer Frye (D-Athens) stayed the entire time, while Reps. Marcus Wiedower (R-Watkinsville) and Trey Rhodes (R-Greensboro) and Sens. Bill Cowsert (R-Athens) and Frank Ginn (R-Danielsville) did not attend. A video of the meeting is available at athenspoliticsnerd.com. [BA]

Oconee Street School

Renovation Wins Award

For years, it seemed that a historic building on Oconee Street would suffer a typical fate that too often afflicts old structures. The windows had been boarded up, graffiti covered the walls and unhoused people were living in it. If the roof hadn’t been intact, it’s likely the building would have fallen down.

Today, the former Oconee Street School houses offices for a law firm, a construction company and a personal fitness business. The fully restored facility in late April received an “Excellence in Rehabilitation Award” from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation. The trust highlights preservation projects around the state that “have made significant contributions to historic preservation.” The Oconee Street School project met the criteria of “preserving features of the property that convey its historic value,” according to the trust’s website.

Built in 1909, the Oconee School welcomed elementary students from the surrounding neighborhoods until 1971. It was then used as a site for the Boys and Girls Club and as the headquarters for ACTION, Inc., which sold it in 2017 to a developer who planned to convert it into 16 apartments for student housing. When financing

“ What’s interesting is the timing of this bill, which came out after the 2020 election, when six women of color won election around the state.

for that plan didn’t come together, Grahl Construction bought the building, intending to rehabilitate it.

Design work began in 2019, said Gabriel Comstock, a principal at Arcolab architectural firm. Once the additions and changes from the 1960s and 1970s—such as dropped ceilings—were removed, the school’s original features showed through. Construction began in 2020.

In addition to the original building, school officials had built a cafetorium in the back sometime in the 1960s, which is now a fitness center, with the stage intact.

Workers reconditioned and repaired existing windows and, when possible, saved the original classroom doors. They learned the building had two sets of flooring, a heart pine original floor that had been covered by oak. Grahl Vice President Chris Gareau said they left the oak floors intact, adding “having two sets of floors makes it really durable.”

“It was a little scary in the beginning, because there were lots of people squatting in the building, and there was no daylight and no electricity,” Comstock said.

What made buying and rehabbing the building feasible for Grahl Construction were the federal tax credits, given to a historic property that’s restored to the standards of the Department of the Interior. That meant documenting almost every step of the rehab process.

“We were careful about how to space things,” said Comstock. “We wanted to maintain the volumetric form of the classrooms, so classrooms became conference rooms, and you can still read what it once was. We made sure the original historic context is still legible. The new stuff is compatible and distinguishes itself as new.”

[Rebecca

McCarthy]

Odds and Ends

Athens First United Methodist Church has filed a lawsuit against AthensClarke County seeking permission to tear down a historic building the church owns, despite the fact that it’s in a historic

The Day the Music Tax Bill Died

GEORGIA LAWMAKERS’ FAILED PUSH FOR MUSIC BIZ INCENTIVES

By Dave Williams news@flagpole.com

Supporters of Georgia’s music industry entered this year’s General Assembly session optimistic lawmakers would renew state tax incentives to lure music producers and create a state office dedicated to promoting the industry.

But after a single committee hearing, nothing happened. The House Creative Arts and Entertainment Committee approved the measure to create a statewide music office. But it failed to reach the House floor for a vote, while the tax incentives bill didn’t even get a committee vote. “Nobody wanted to talk about tax credits,” said state Rep. Kasey Carpenter, R-Dalton, chief sponsor of the tax incentives bill.

during this year’s session, he said.

Sharma said her group will be working to build support for the legislation next year. “We must invest in music alongside film and digital entertainment,” she said. “Music is economic development.”

Kemp Signs Gang Bill

A bill signed by Gov. Brian Kemp at a Lake Lanier resort Apr. 26 creates a five-year mandatory prison sentence for gang-related offenses and adds five years for recruiting minors into gangs.

district. The fate of the Saye Building, on Lumpkin Street between Washington Street and Hancock Avenue, was the spark that led the Athens-Clarke County Commission to create the West Downtown Historic District. The commission declared a moratorium on downtown demolitions in January 2019—after the church filed for a demolition permit, but before county staff approved it. Commissioner Melissa Link exercised her right to put a 90-day hold on demolition permits for structures that are more than 50 years old. ACC had not filed a response to the lawsuit at press time, but county attorneys previously told the Hearings Board during an unsuccessful appeal by the church that planning staff acted properly by denying the demolition permit.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed a law at the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse last week creating a cold case unit within the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and providing $5.4 million in funding. The ColemanBaker Act is named in part after UGA law student Tara Baker, whose murder in 2001 rocked the town and whose killer was never caught.

In addition to seeking input on affordable housing, ACC is looking for feedback on a site for a new Eastside library

Finalists include undeveloped ACC-owned property at 1030 Barnett Shoals Road, the early learning center at the old Gaines School, the Kroger shopping center at Barnett Shoals and College Station Road, the Green Acres shopping center, Covenant Presbyterian, Cedar Shoals High School, the Thornton Plaza shopping center on Lexington Road and the ACC Landscape Management facility on Lexington Road. Some sites are large enough where current uses could coexist with the library, according to Commissioner Carol Myers. Open house meetings are scheduled for 2–4 p.m. May 6 at the ACC Library, 12–2 p.m. May 11 at Fire Station 7 on Barnett Shoals and 5–7 p.m. May 11 at the East Athens Development Corp. on McKinley Drive. Or, residents can weigh in at accgov.com/eastsidelibrary. [BA] f

Both bills were the product of a joint House-Senate study committee that met last year to look for ways to grow Georgia’s music industry. The panel recommended that lawmakers renew the existing music industry tax credit, which was due to expire at the end of the year, at 30%–35% of a music production’s expenses, and lower the spending thresholds needed for producers of live shows and music recordings to qualify for the tax credit. The committee also suggested creating a statewide music office separate from the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Film, Music and Entertainment Office after members heard testimony on the success of the state music office in Texas.

While the film office has been highly successful in helping make Georgia a leading hub for movie and TV productions, it hasn’t been as successful with the music industry, said Mala Sharma, president of Georgia Music Partners, the state’s leading music industry advocacy organization. “We’ve lost billions by allowing other states to take our studios and artists,” she said.

“House Bill 549 will help the Georgia music industry grow, prosper and compete with music states like California, Texas, Tennessee and New York by providing one central point of contact for music in our state,” said Rep. Tyler Paul Smith (R-Bremen), the bill’s chief sponsor. But in an interview on Apr. 25, Smith told Capitol Beat his bill ran into some headwinds.

“There were some arguments this would already be covered by the film [office],” he said.

Meanwhile, Carpenter’s tax incentives bill—House Bill 393—ended up a victim of poor timing. With a newly created legislative committee about to undertake a cost-benefit review of every state tax credit on the books, lawmakers weren’t in the mood to consider tax credit legislation

Senate Bill 44, Kemp’s signature crimefighting measure for 2023, was part of a package of public safety bills signed by the Republican governor at a ceremony during the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association Command Staff Conference. In front of the crowd of law enforcement officials, Kemp stressed the importance of supporting their mission to reduce the number of gang members who have become a violent nuisance, not only in urban areas, but also in rural areas. “We will not let up in Georgia until gangs are literally gone because their members are behind bars,” Kemp said.

The stiffer prison sentences for street gang offenses are not met with universal support. There is concern among Democratic legislators, criminal justice reform advocates, and the state association of public defenders that the new sentencing guidelines will have unintended consequences.

Several critics have argued that the new law significantly limits a judge’s discretion in determining the most effective sentencing based on the individual circumstances of a case, and that it undermines the state’s recent criminal justice reform platform that emphasizes rehabilitation over longer prison sentences.

The new law prohibits a judge from releasing someone from jail on a signature bond with the promise to appear in court, and requires a judge to consider someone’s criminal history before releasing them from custody.

During debate on SB 44 during the legislative session, Sen. Josh McLaurin, a Sandy Springs Democrat, said requiring cash bail for crimes other than gang-related offenses could lead to someone getting arrested for a minor traffic offense if they have already been charged with failure to appear in court. [Stanley Dunlap] f

and georgiarecorder.com.

These articles originally appeared at capitol-beat.org

The current condition of the abandoned Oconee Street School, and an artist’s rendering of what it will look like after renovation.

Rep. Kasey Carpenter (R-Dalton), no relation to Karen.

Too Wonderful for Anybody

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR AND WATER AND SOIL AND CLIMATE

By Pete McCommons pete@flagpole.com

Suppose you, unlike most people, start taking climate change seriously. Suppose, too, that your skills lie in areas having to do with communication—you’re a writer, a publicist, a blogger; you interview people on television. So when you start taking something seriously, something as all-encompassing as climate change, you naturally begin thinking about how to share your climate concerns, which, you realize, should concern us all, but which you know are far from most people’s consciousness.

Short-Order Poetry

GREAT WORKS AND DIY POEMS

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

a talky, preachy play. At the same time, in order to address the complicated concept of climate change, you’ve got to bring up the science that underlies it all. That is the job of Director and Flurry in the main play, which takes place during a shipboard expedition, with the actors playing scientists, one of whom is seasick, collecting ocean readings that will be used to analyze the effects of various pollutants on life in the ocean—life that is vital to our own lives, which is the point of the play. It ain’t just a concept: It’s life or death for our planet, and, by the way, if the planet continues on its present trajectory, there pretty quickly won’t be any more need to worry about the price of lattes, because the big blue marble will be brown, and Jittery Joe’s will be roasted.

After lots of scientific discussions and action in several peripheral plays, Flurry brings it all to a quiet close (spoiler alert).

DIRECTOR: Well that… and that all this—the science, these elaborate mechanisms, can exist alongside people falling in love, politics, middle class strife, wars—we can be so advanced and still need to get back to basics.

SANDRA: I know. It’s amazing that kid can understand what he knows and still be hopeful.

DIRECTOR: (shaking his head) Emily was right.

ADAM: Emily?

SANDRA: Our Town.

DIRECTOR: Yes—what was your line at the end?

“Poetry is the rhythmical creation of beauty in words,” said Edgar Allan Poe. April was National Poetry Month, but poetry is inspiring every month and day of the year. Whether describing the beauty of nature, the horrors of war or the light-hearted humor of our daily lives, poets can evoke universal emotions and stir memories from readers across a span of centuries.

When I was in high school, we were required to memorize poems and recite them in the classroom. It was not an easy assignment, but it paid off by showing the present relevance of past writings, and by giving us an appreciation for the flow and structure of well-written words. To this day, I still enjoy poetry, and I still can recite many of the verses I learned in the classroom back when this nation and I were both much younger.

Poetry could even be found in some newspapers back in the 1950s and early ’60s. For many years Atlanta’s morning paper, The Atlanta Constitution, ran poetry by Ollie Reeves, a former poet laureate of Georgia and Atlanta. His easy-going poetry was collected in a volume aptly titled It’s Nothing Serious

himself the unofficial poet laureate of Athens. Weeks was a self-styled “barroom poet” who published a booklet called Loving Time that included verses that were tender, touching or whimsical, such as his line about saving a turtle crossing a road before “some car might come hurtling and swiftly end your days of turtling.” Weeks was a true Athens town character whose pub poetry evoked a line from British poet A.E. Housman: “Malt does more than Milton can/ to justify God’s ways to man.”

When it comes to poetry, I’m not one of the pros, but I do appreciate the lessons poetry teaches about putting experiences into compact form with few words. In March I wrote “Moon and Venus shining bright/ as I walked back home tonight./ Crickets chirping, tree frogs, too./ Happy spring to all of you.”

After hearing an owl recently, I took a cue from comic poet Ogden Nash and wrote “When hoot owls fly in darkest night/ they always try to travel light./ When buzzards fly in early dawn/ their baggage is just carrion.”

Climate change is so far from our everyday lives (and so near) that it is almost impossible for the finest scientific and academic minds to wake us up. But if you’re Alan Flurry, who has all the communication skills mentioned above, plus more (he’s a drummer), you’re still going to have a go at finding a vehicle that tries to bridge the wide gap between everyday and everywhere.

Alan’s solution is to write a play. You say that’s more likely to put them to sleep than wake them up. Nevertheless, a communicator communicates, and Alan has written a play about climate change, which will have a staged reading a couple of times next week, directed by Alexis Nichols.

Flurry uses the device of a play within a play, or actually several plays within a play. The main through-line belongs to the character known as “Director.” Director, you see, is staging a play and is at the point of read-throughs when he begins musing with Adam, one of the actors. In fact, Director, thanks to split staging and multiple time frames, is staging several plays, but the one foremost in his mind is about climate change. So, we’ve got all the plays in the process of production, but Director continues to bring us back to the main event—his preoccupation with climate change.

Director—and Flurry—has taken on the challenge of saying something we can grasp without boring the hell out of us with

SANDRA: Earth, you’re too wonderful for anybody to realize you.

DIRECTOR: And then she takes her place among the dead.

ADAM: But we’re not Emily; we get to stay.

SANDRA: That’s a thing. It’s not too late for us to realize it, to appreciate the earth. Wonderful, but not too.

DIRECTOR: That’s it. (beat) Now you can go.

ADAM and SANDRA smile optimistically. Stage lights dim.

Athens Playwrights Workshop presents a staged reading of Too Wonderful for Anybody Saturday, May 13 at 8 p.m. in the Cellar Theatre of the UGA Fine Arts Building, free, and again on Tuesday, May 16 at 8 p.m. in the Cellar Theatre as an adjacent event of the 2023 Georgia Climate Conference, also free. f

WHO: TooWonderful forAnybody staged readings

WHEN: Saturday, May 13 & Tuesday, May 16, 8 p m

WHERE: Cellar Theatre, UGA Fine Arts Building HOW MUCH: FREE!

A book that was a major influence on me is a slim little volume called One Hundred and One Famous Poems. The book was a fixture in American homes of the postwar 1950s, and it is still one of the best short anthologies of poetry. Along with the poems, the book included images of the poets and a supplement of such “poetic prose” as Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. In the classroom when I was a student, Laurence Perrine’s book Sound and Sense: An Introduction to Poetry was a textbook that should be read by students and parents today as the shadow of book-banning falls across the American body politic.

Poet Walt Whitman was correct when he said, “To have great poetry there must be great audiences, too.” In this time of strife, disunity and uncertainty, poets and their audiences are needed now more than ever in America.

Here in Athens, writer and educator Jeff Fallis serves as our city’s first official poet laureate. He promotes poetry and poets in the Athens area, and can be heard reading his own works on his Dial-a-Poem service at 762-400-POEM.

Readers who were in Athens in the 1970s may remember Ed Weeks, who called

Noise pollution is a problem in Athens, which I mentioned with this poem: “Silence is golden/ so they say/ but Earth gets louder every day./ Loud leaf blowers, booming bass,/ noise pollution grows apace./ Motorcycle’s awful roar/ as noise annoys forevermore.”

When Donald Trump was indicted in New York recently, I marked the occasion with the lines, “April is the cruelest month said T.S. Eliot’s verse,/ but Donald Trump has just found out that April could get worse.”

It’s just short-order poetry. You can do it, too. Just write down what’s happening with folks like me and you. Write down all the good times and people that you meet— the verses of our daily lives, the poetry of the street. f

“ In this time of strife, disunity and uncertainty, poets and their audiences are needed now more than ever.

Athens poet laureate Jeff Fallis

DON CHAMBERS

Working on the Chain Gang

CONVICT LABOR IN GEORGIA WAS SLAVERY IN ALL BUT NAME

By John Cole Vodicka news@flagpole.com

F2,” the century-old burial site of James Monroe Smith.

Frederick Douglass

One day recently I drove to the Oconee Hill Cemetery to visit the mass grave and memorial for 105 enslaved and formerly enslaved Athenians. In 2015 the bones of these African Americans had been “discovered” while workers were bulldozing around Baldwin Hall on the University of Georgia campus. They were buried under a parking lot.

The university initially denied that the bones were those of Black people. Then, to make matters worse, after DNA analysis showed that the remains were of African descent, UGA officials decided to rebury them in a mass grave at Oconee Hill, the city’s formerly all-white cemetery. That happened in March 2017, with most of the African-American community kept unaware of the ceremony. “They’re being placed close to their white masters again,” my friend Fred Smith Sr., a descendent of Athens’ enslaved people, told me at the time.

When I arrived at the sprawling 150-year-old cemetery (where Confederates, slaveholders and Klansmen are buried), I walked down a slight hill to the site of the mass grave. It’s set off considerably from the other white folks’ graves that inhabit the area. I stood there and silently read the inscription on the granite memorial marker, placed a stone on top of it, and said a prayer.

Looking back up the hill into the morning sunlight, I noticed several prisoners were working about a hundred yards away. One was on a riding lawn mower, while another was cleaning off gravestones and walkways with leaf blowers. One prisoner was weed-eating around gravestones that surrounded a weathered mausoleum. A prison guard stood nearby, leaning on a pickup truck and keeping an eye on his captive crew.

I realized that these prisoners at the top of the hill, almost all of whom were Black, were at that moment busy tending to “plot

After Reconstruction, Smith literally made his personal and political fortunes off the backs of Georgia prisoners. Between 1880 and his death in 1915, Smith was perhaps the most notorious ringleader of Georgia’s brutal convict lease system.

After the Civil War, until it was mostly “abolished” in 1908, Georgia’s convict lease system became, next to lynching, the most brutal manifestation of Black oppression in the South. The infamous “Black Codes” had been implemented by the state legislature, laws that targeted the recently enslaved and put Blacks in jail for “crimes” that included petty offenses such as vagrancy, cursing, fighting, mischief, insulting gestures or just being an annoyance to white folks. To escape imprisonment, Blacks took what work they could, no matter what the terms.

Once Black men (and occasionally women) were jailed, white landowners routinely paid the prisoners’ fines, and the captives were released into peonage. The convicts’ debts were seldom forgiven. Prisoners languished under their white master’s keep for months, sometimes years. The convicts were chained, brutally and frequently whipped, and lived in unsanitary, disease-ridden environments. Many were tortured. Some died.

One of James Monroe Smith’s wards described himself as a “chain-gang slave.” Later, historian Fletcher Green called Georgia’s convict leasing a “system that left a trail of dishonor and death that could find a parallel only in the persecutions of the Middle Ages or the prison camps of Nazi Germany.”

Capitalizing on the convict lease system, James Monroe Smith grew his small Oglethorpe County farm into one of Georgia’s largest postbellum plantation enterprises. At one point Smith had holdings in a state hospital, a small college, a railroad and businesses in Atlanta. He not only had several thousand prisoners working on his plantation, but he leased thousands more to other farmers, corporations and prominent politicians throughout the state. At his death his estate’s estimated worth was more than $4 million. He was the second richest man in Georgia. He vainly named his plantation—much of it constructed and maintained by convict labor—Smithonia.

By the turn of the 19th century, Smithonia boasted the largest cotton gin in the state, a grist mill, corn mill, woodworking shop, blacksmith shop, sawmills, brick making operation, numerous storehouses, a hotel, a post office, hundreds of houses and six schools. Today, the plantation just 15 miles east of Athens is a historic district.

Smith parlayed his wealth into politics, too, and served in the Georgia legislature during the 1870s and ’80s. In 1906 he ran unsuccessfully for governor. John Hill, one of the prisoners forced to work at Smithonia, said this:

“If the Lord rules heaven, Jim Smith ruled the earth.”

In the years just before Smith died, the legislature began investigating gruesome reports and first-hand accounts of the “fiendish cruelty” occurring on plantations and businesses that leased prisoners for their labor. Court cases were filed that described the horrific treatment of convict laborers. Smithonia was included. Investigators turned up evidence that a number of Smith’s convicts died of consumption, heart failure and sun stroke. A half-dozen others had been killed by guards. One legislative report perceptively noted that this brutal treatment of prisoners “could only flourish in an ex-slave state where ex-slaves made up the majority of convicts.”

Starting in 1908, Georgia law prohibited prisoners charged with misdemeanor offenses from being leased out to private entities. This resulted in city and county workcamps popping up throughout the state, and with them, the use of chain gangs. Clarke County stopped leasing out its prisoners in the late 1920s and began to use them for road work, on its county farm and at the landfill. The overworked, chained prisoners often lived little better than those in a convict lease camp.

Eventually, in 1955, Georgia’s chain gangs were outlawed. But the county work camps with their free prisoner labor continued on.

Today, the Athens-Clarke County Correctional Institution (ACCCI) is one of 21 “county work camps” in Georgia. A total of 4,646 men are currently caged in these facilities. ACCCI houses 115 prisoners, and almost all of them are put to work by and for the local government. Ordinances state the ACCCI exists to “provide a labor pool to various departments of the Athens-Clarke County government, Georgia State Patrol and Northeast Georgia Police Academy.” Prisoners work in and around the courthouse and the public library, at UGA football games, help move voting machines, and mow grass along city streets. The daily labor value to Athens-Clarke County is $35.97 per prisoner. According to ACC records, the county camp’s unpaid work force saved taxpayers $1.1 million in 2020.

I concluded my visit to the AfricanAmerican mass gravesite. The county’s prisoners had finished sprucing up plot F-2 and were moving on to another section of the Oconee Hill Cemetery. I made the trek up the incline to my car, stopping in front of the James Monroe Smith mausoleum. The edifice dominates the hilltop. I confess I could not bring myself to say a prayer, nor did I place a stone near Smith’s tomb.

Instead, I walked away from the eroding mausoleum and looked back down to the granite marker where the bones of 105 unnamed Black people were interred. At the same time, I heard again the sound of a leaf blower and spotted the ACCCI prisoners now at work around other graves—perhaps, I wondered, those of their current keepers’ kin?

Here in Athens, the bones of the enslaved are surrounded by the bones of enslavers. And these enslavers’ graves—at least one of whom made his fortune off quasi-slavery in the early 20th Century— are being tended to by the forced convict laborers of our day. f

flagpole is

to help cover UGA, local government and

topics. Send a resume and writing samples to City Editor Blake Aued (news@flagpole.com) by May 5.

“America is false to the past, false to the present, and solemnly binds herself to be false to the future.”

James Monroe Smith’s mausoleum at Oconee Hill Cemetery.

JOHN COLE VODICKA

art notes

Chris Hubbard

FROM ART CAR PARADES TO ARTIST MARKETS

By Jessica Smith arts@flagpole.com

Playfully poking at the dichotomy of life through his creations, self-taught artist Chris Hubbard, also known as CHUB, reminds viewers that “good” and “bad” cannot exist without the other.

For many years, his Heaven and Hell art car—a mobile art installation covered in rusted metal and wooden sculptures of angels, devils and saints—would turn heads whenever it rolled into town. Today, his tongue-in-cheek artwork, often carrying messages such as “a little good, a little bad, like most folk” or “thou shalt not, but probably will,” can be found on display at the World Famous or for sale in Indie South’s shop. When Hubbard appears in the 2021 film Ragged Heart, a dramatic thriller filmed in Athens, it’s no surprise that he simply portrays himself. It’d be difficult to write a character more interesting and authentic than he already is.

Hubbard’s creative roots trace back to the underground alternative scene of Nashville during the early ’80s. At the time, he was a tour manager for the band In Pursuit, which would occasionally tour through Athens to share stages with the likes of Guadalcanal Diary and Dreams So Real. He could sense a parallel between the two Southern towns that both had fascinating countercultures bubbling beneath the surface, and represented the South in a much more progressive light than the stereotypes that permeated mainstream society.

With experience as a microbiologist in his rear view mirror, he eventually decided to return to a career in the sciences, and began working for an environmental company that specialized in the disposing of hazardous wastes. A few years into his new role, he re-entered the music scene, this time as a photographer focused on capturing live performance shots of alternative bands in small clubs.

Around this time, he also began taking interest in folk art environments and photographing them when possible. This curiosity was partly piqued by R.E.M., who used Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden as the setting for the “Radio Free Europe” music video, and later used the visionary artist’s work as the album cover for Reckoning. The band also filmed “Left of Reckoning” and the music video for “Pretty Persuasion” among R.A. Miller’s yard full of whirligigs.

Hubbard eventually moved to Tampa, FL in 1992 to be closer to family, and soon immersed himself into the music scene by taking photographs for alternative publications there, all while continuing to work for the environmental company. While working at the business’s corporate office in Columbia, SC, he realized that Miller’s home of Rabbittown, GA, was only a few hours away and decided to find him. Miller, whose “Blow Oskar” sculptures are notably collectible, was a self-taught artist who began covering his property with hundreds of painted tin cut-outs and whirligigs later in life.

“When I got back to Tampa, I cut out a star, moon and little devil out of tin and painted them,” says Hubbard. “I had never done anything like that, but he inspired something in me.”

Sometimes life has a way of suddenly rerouting its path, and that moment came in 1996 when a road detour around a car wreck sent him driving past a very unusual home in the nearby town of Safety Harbor. Whimzeyland, also known as the “Bowling Ball House,” is a dazzling, candy-colored spectacle covered in mosaics, sculptures, bottle trees and other unusual decorations by artists Todd Ramquist and Kiaralinda. The duo, who were partly influenced by their visits to other art environments across the country, continue to pass the inspiration forward to others today through their nonprofit Safety Harbor Art and Music Center (SHAMc).

Hoping to photograph and curious to know whoever

was behind the eclectic home and art car parked outside, Hubbard decided to reach out and left a message in their mailbox. They called him later that evening and invited him to a party at which Harrod Blank would be screening a new documentary about art cars. The creator of three art cars himself, Blank has been instrumental in bringing art cars to a national audience through his films Wild Wheels and Automorphosis, photography books, various exhibitions and even a museum called Art Car World in Douglas, AZ.

In addition to the couple’s art car, Blank’s documentary featured many cars from the Houston Art Car Parade. With the annual event’s upcoming date just around the corner, Todd and Kiaralinda invited Hubbard to ride along with them and photograph what he saw. After making a pit stop in New Orleans to caravan with other art cars, they hit the road for Houston—a first-hand experience that launched Hubbard into the peculiar scene. The following year, he traveled with several artists to an art car event all the way out in San Francisco, again as a photographer, stopping at a few folk art environments and self-made worlds along the way.

els throughout the Southwest. Though influenced by his Catholic upbringing, he’s kept an open mind about spirituality throughout his adulthood, and his art car invites viewers to do the same.

“I can look at nature, and I can look at molecules and protons and electrons and neutrons and how all that makes life, but it also can make the stars and the moon and all that,” says Hubbard. “There’s some kind of plan behind all this. To me that’s a sign of God. That all this stuff works… Whether it’s a beautiful tree or the color of the sky on a given day at sunset… It works too nicely together most of the time to just be totally random, I think. But beyond that, I don’t know.”

Since its conception 25 years ago, the Heaven and Hell Car has clocked 365,000 miles and is currently in need of considerable repairs. Though it may now have one wheel on the rainbow road, so to speak, it can still be spotted outside of his home in Farmington.

The first time Hubbard ever took his Heaven and Hell Car to the Houston Art Car Parade, he won a third place prize out of nearly 300 entries—a very affirming experience that motivated him early on to keep going. He began navigating a nationwide circuit of art car festivals and parades, and quickly picked up how many spectators were inquiring as to whether or not he sold any of the little figures that decorated his car. Whereas most art car owners decorate their vehicle as an extension of an already established body of work, Hubbard instead began creating art objects as sellable souvenirs for these events. Influenced by the folk artists he admired, he naturally gravitated towards working with rusted tin and a variety of old salvaged materials. While participating in the Artscape festival in Baltimore, a woman even asked to purchase his entire collection of wares, later identifying herself as an employee who ran the American Visionary Art Museum’s gift shop.

Eventually, Hubbard felt a desire to “move north to get back to the South,” and turned his attention to Athens. Drawn to its reputation of having a strong alternative scene—and taking Miller and Finster’s connections to the town as a good omen—he felt that his artwork might be well-received, too. In 2000, he participated in the AthFest Music & Arts Festival— the first time he had ever applied to an art market that wasn’t specifically a call for art cars—and even won an award from the juror. He officially moved to Athens the following year.

“I was seeing this real connection between art cars and folk art and outsider art, partly because of the connection to alternative underground music,” says Hubbard. “It was all kinda counterculture.”

In 1998, the environmental company Hubbard worked for announced that it was closing its Florida office to consolidate facilities, and gave him the option of either relocating to a different city or accepting a severance package equivalent to a year’s salary. Recognizing a rare opportunity, he decided to use the severance pay to support himself as he set out to create his own art car.

“You don’t have to have a theme,” says Hubbard. “It doesn’t have to really mean anything or have a name. You can just take stuff from a flea market or out of your garage and put it all over a car and people are going to be curious. So, it didn’t seem intimidating to me to try to make an art car.”

After considering several different ideas, Hubbard settled on the theme of heaven and hell. He had always been drawn to religious art, whether it was Southern folk art by Miller or Finster, Italian Renaissance paintings by Michelangelo or Leonardo da Vinci, or the hand-carved santos sculptures of saints he had seen during his trav -

As the demand for his artwork gradually grew, his focus shifted from art car events to galleries and art markets. Since then, he has sustained his creative lifestyle by participating in a handful of regional craft markets throughout the year. For the past two decades, he’s been a staple at both the Kentuck Festival of the Arts in Northport, AL and the Fearrington Folk Art Show in Pittsboro, NC. He’s also participated in Finster Fest at Paradise Gardens in Summerville, as well as self-taught artist Butch Anthony’s legendary Doo-Nanny in Seale, AL. This weekend at Bishop Park, Hubbard will join over 100 other artists and makers at the Springtacular, Indie South’s biannual open-air market dedicated to all things handmade. Active with Indie South since its earliest days, he has been a trusted advisor and instrumental sounding board to owner Serra Jaggar as the business has grown and evolved over the years.

“He has a big ol’ tender heart and tries to see the best in people no matter what they’ve done or what’s being said about them,” says Jaggar. “I love that Chris chooses to create artwork that is deliberately provocative and humorous around religion while living in the bible belt, knowing that a lot of people will reject it based on that alone. I think his work is such a reflection of who he is—full of character, a little rusty, sometimes serious but more often humorous and uplifting.” f

WHO: Chris Hubbard at

Springtacular WHEN: Saturday, May 6 & Sunday, May 7, 10 a m –5 p m WHERE: Bishop Park HOW MUCH: FREE!

Indie South’s

JASON THRASHER

MUSIC | THU, MAY 4

Jake Brower Tape Release

Flicker Theatre & Bar • 8 p.m. • $10

Nathan Sheets has been active in the local scene for quite some time. You’ve likely seen him at your favorite show. Heck, he probably put on your favorite show. Now, Sheets is diving into the world of small-run physical distribution with his new label Attaboy Tapes. The label’s first signed artist, Jake Brower, is celebrating the release of his first album on tape with a live show on May 4. Psychofunky Dancing is a nine-track tape of psych-pop goodness, with electronic instrumentation largely produced in GarageBand. This show will also feature a solo performance by Dog Person, Kiran Fernandes and Fermented Angels. [Patrick Barry]

MUSIC | FRI, MAY 5

Mdou Moctar

Georgia Theatre • 8 p.m. • $18 (adv.), $20

It isn’t often that a band from another continent revisits the Georgia Theatre twice in nearly a year, but Tuareg rockers

Mdou Moctar will rock the stage once again. Hailing from Agadez, Niger, guitarist Mdou Moctar and his stellar band play lightning fast Saharan rock inspired by traditional Tuareg music. The band began by sharing its music through trading disposable phones and memory cards throughout West Africa, and it has since gained international attention for its virtuosity and irresistible

to support one of the bands, most of them being cleverly named cover bands. This year’s finalists are The Solitary Man (Starlite Showroom), Cakes N’ Roses (CareAway Cakes), Punchlist (TSAV), The Young Frankensteins (Adam Hebbard & Friends), Tom Watts (40 Watt), The Wux-O-Matics (Wuxtry Records) and The JOMAmas & The Papas (JOMA Construction). [PB]

ART | MAY 6–7

Indie South Springtacular

Bishop Park • 10 a.m.–5 p.m. • FREE!

Indie South is a local brick and mortar store specializing in handmade items. From throw pillows to tarot cards, handmade gifts, candles or stationary, the selection at Indie South is certainly impressive. But, Indie South really shines in a collaborative, market atmosphere like its upcoming Springtacular. This outdoor market at Bishop Park will feature over 100 handmade and vintage vendors to shop from offering everything from jewelry, ceramics and prints to home goods, textiles and apothecary products, plus food trucks, local musicians and family-friendly fun. [PB]

MUSIC | TUE, MAY 9

25 Years of Georgia

Children’s Chorus

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall • 7 p.m. • $12

For 25 years, the Georgia Children’s Chorus has inspired, uplifted and invig-

groove. Melodic local band Immaterial Possession will open with the release of its new album, Mercy Of The Crane Folk. [PB]

MUSIC | SAT, MAY 6

Athens Business Rocks

40 Watt Club • 6 p.m.

• $20

Six local businesses will rock the 40 Watt stage in a battle of the bands-style fundraising competition for Nuçi’s Space. For the price of admission, attendees can choose

orated young people across the Athens area. The chorus, composed of 50 children ages 7–18, works in residence at the Hugh Hodgson School of Music to achieve high artistic standards. If you were at the Twilight Criterium in April, you may have heard or seen the Georgia Children’s Chorus. In celebration of 25 years of performance, the GCC is presenting an anniversary show at the UGA Performing Arts Center. Tickets can be purchased online through pac.uga.edu. [PB] f

Mdou Moctar

Chip McKenzie’s Car Crash On Yr Couch

PLUS, MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS IT: Slipping out with zero fanfare last week was a new single by The Music Tapes/Orbiting Human Circus named “The Lost Angel.” It’s a lovely little tune with a traditional pop melody, which is always a nice treat to receive from Music Tapes creative lead Julian Koster And that’s it. That’s the news. It’s nothing mind-blowing or earth-shaking, just a nice little love song that y’all should know about. Find it over at themusictapes.bandcamp.com.

STATIC AGE: The Electric Nature just returned home from a quick tour celebrating the release of its newest LP Old World Must Die. The album was co-released by Feeding Tube Records and Null Zone, which is the imprint helmed by Electric Nature leader Michael Potter. Joining the group on tour was ex-Athenian Jeff Tobias (Sunwatchers, et al.) who also performs on the album. Actually, the whole album is a relatively star-studded event featuring Potter,

Vic Chesnutt Awards Finalists

SONGWRITERS OF ATHENS SHARE INSPIRATIONS

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

remarkably subdued even when it briefly gets a little loud towards its end. Known as a crack song man, McKenzie’s ability to spin a tune and tale is enviable. This record is acoustic guitar-based and eminently listenable. Astute listeners will also notice a cover of “I Remember Lima” by The Mountain Goats. Ultimately, it seems like this collection is something of a clearing-of-the-decks, but it all flows so nicely together it can just as easily be enjoyed as a singular statement. Find this and listen alone at stillsmallvoiceandthejoyfulnoise.bandcamp.com.

ALL WORK AND NO PLAY MAKES JACK A DULL BOY:

The next instance of the popular Athens Business Rocks benefit for Nuçi’s Space happens Saturday, May 6 at the 40 Watt Club. This event is populated by one-off local bands formed by local businesses. Winners are determined by the amount of money raised, as well as being judged during the live show. Featured acts this year are from local businesses Starlite Showroom, Caraway Cakes, TSAV, the 40 Watt Club, Wuxtry Records and JOMA Construction. Advance tickets are available now, and if you’d like to sponsor one of the bands, you can do that as well through this convenient web portal: nuci.org/ athens-business-rocks.

The Classic City Rotary will present the seventh annual Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 4 at the 40 Watt Club. Named for the internationally renowned Athens musician Vic Chesnutt, the awards aim to spotlight a diverse array of local artists who exemplify skillful and thoughtful storytelling.

With representation across multiple music genres, past winners have included Elijah Johnston (2022), Cassie Chantel and WesdaRuler featuring Louie Larceny (2021), Jim Willingham (2020), Lydian Brambila (2019) and Linqua Franqa (2018). Each year nominations are made by the community based on a recorded work released in the prior year. After reviewing the pool of nominations, a panel of judges determine the finalists. This year’s judges included hip-hop artist and 2021 winner Cassie Chantel, Atlantabased singer-songwriter

Caroline Herring, Nashville-based alt-country artist Boo Ray, Elephant 6 producer and musician Robert Schneider, and Flagpole’s own Threats & Promises columnist Gordon Lamb.

wanting to leave the warmth of a shared bed for a job you don’t enjoy. When I hear the song now, it also makes me think about the vulnerability of a new relationship. This song is different from the rest of the album, and I’m happy with how it turned out.”

Erin Lovett (Four Eyes), ‘Magic 8 Ball’

“As a songwriter I thrive with limitations. I love the challenge of writing within a theme, so I keep most of my albums bound to a certain concept or feeling. My song was written as part of a Halloween-themed EP I put out last year, The Freaky EP. I say Halloween-themed, but the songs are less ‘Monster Mash’ and more meant to evoke that late-October feeling in general. ‘Magic 8 Ball’ is about the idea of letting go of control and allowing random chance to guide our decisions in life. At the time of writing, I was in the midst of planning my wedding and very much ready to cede control of everything to some mysterious universal force. That letting go can be scary, but there’s a certain thrill to it.”

Night Palace (Avery Draut), ‘Stranger Powers’

Michael Pierce, Tobias, Thom Strickland and John Kiran Fernandes. The two-track album—featuring the free-jazz skronk marathon of “Enter Chapel Perilous” and the Swans-worthy title track—clocks in at nearly 45 minutes, so be prepared to lie in a bit for this. For more information, please see feedingtuberecords.com, nullzone.bandcamp.com, theelectricnature.bandcamp. com and facebook.com/TheElectricNature.

CHECKING IN: Speaking of things that just seemed to sneak out of nowhere, let me tip you to the new album by Chip McKenzie named Car Crash On Yr Couch. It’s clear these recordings were done over a long course of time, and this is made crystalline by the presence of the late Bo Freeze, who passed away five years ago, playing banjo on “Spaceship,” which was written by Ken Dubard. Further, there are five songs recorded live at Gumby’s Pizza, which shut its doors many years ago. The 14-song album begins with a positively narcoleptic version of The Jesus & Mary Chain’s “9 Million Rainy Days.” This vibe is portentous of the entire album, too, which remains

HEADS UP: Museum Mix happens only three times a year, including Thursday, May 4 from 8–11 p.m. This free event is when the Georgia Museum of Art opens its doors wide for the public to experience its exhibitions, socialize and enjoy music and free refreshments. This night’s featured DJ is Stella Zine. For more information, please see georgiamuseum.org.

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE: Deep State is among the most solidly dependable rockers in town, and they drive this point home, yet again, on the newly released eight-song Diary of A Nobody. It was recorded and mixed by Drew Vandenberg at Chase Park Transduction and mastered by Joel Hatstat at High Jump Media. So, those are the hard facts. The subjective facts are: This thing is cool as hell, and seemingly tailor-made for late afternoon beer bashes, sweaty club sets and late-night cruising on open roads. As expected, this new collection of tunes draws deeply from the American power-pop tradition and breaks no new ground, but confidently retains its seat at the table. Specific highlights include “Young People,” “Secret Freezer,” “Dial Tone” and the title track. Find this at deepstate.bandcamp. com, and, if so inclined, you can visit the band’s never-updated page at facebook. com/deepstatega. f

From 110 nominations received for 68 different artists, the 2023 finalists are Cardynal, Dylan Loftin, Erin Lovett (Four Eyes), Night Palace (Avery Draut) and Trvy (Trevor Wiggins). Each finalist will receive $250, while the top winner earns $1500 plus studio recording time from Amplify at Nuçi’s Space and a Team Clermont publicity and radio promotion package valued at $5,000.

The awards ceremony can be livestreamed on Facebook Live, YouTube Live and vicchesnuttaward.com. Featured performances for the night include 2023 judge Caroline Herring, 2022 winner Elijah Johnston and all five finalists.

Below, the finalists share the inspiration behind their nominated track:

Cardynal, ‘If You Love It’

“I came home from work one day feeling particularly worn out, and as soon as I got to my room I sat down at my guitar and started playing the chords. I ended up writing and recording it in one session, and recording the verses and choruses all in one take. It’s a song about being burnt out and becoming aware of the cycles and patterns that occur in my day to day life.”

Dylan Loftin, ‘Early Bird’

“I wrote and recorded ‘Early Bird’ in the winter, which is reflected in its sparse instrumentation. At the time, I had just started seeing someone new and was commuting every morning to a job that involved working outside in very cold weather. Explicitly, ‘Early Bird’ is about not

“I have skateboarded only one time––it was in tandem, held close by a friend, all the way down from the very top of a parking deck to the bottom, and I hope this song feels like that. During that time of my life, my best friends and I were learning to become ourselves in a new way, and ‘Stranger Powers’ is a capsule from that time. My best friend Prosper’s grandmother had passed away and had left them over a dozen gorgeously illustrated tarot card sets; a snapshot of this song is this image in my head of Prosper sitting on the floor, surrounded by circles and circles of the cards, as they admired each one.”

Trvy (Trevor Wiggins), ‘The Cost’

“‘The Cost’ is a song that was written during a period of introspection. The lyrics were inspired by the state of the world, collective emotional trauma, instances of police brutality and personal traumas that accumulated over time. I was struck by the question of what it truly costs to exist in this world, and the phrase ‘what’s the cost’ echoed in my mind. Fueled by these emotions, I sat down at the microphone and allowed my feelings to pour out, resulting in this poignant and powerful song.”

WHO: Vic Chesnutt Songwriter of the Year Awards

WHEN: Thursday, May 4, 7 p m

WHERE: 40 Watt Club

HOW MUCH: $15

Elijah Johnston

live music calendar

Tuesday 2

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com

EAGLE SCOUT Athens power-pop band.

ELIJAH JOHNSTON Local singersongwriter influenced by emo and folk rock.

NANOCAR Indie rock band with rich harmonic segments.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

8 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com

HALLPASS College rock band from Athens.

THE OCHO Up-and-coming sixpiece Athens rock band.

Wednesday 3

Athentic Brewing Co.

7–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

WEDNESDAY KARAOKE NIGHT

Choose from a catalog of over 51,000 songs ranging from pop, rock, musical theater and more.

Creature Comforts

Brewery

Athens Farmers Market. 5–8 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmersmarket.

net

VINYL STRANGERS Melodic local folk-rock band. (6 p.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar

9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com

DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring a large assortment of pop, rock, indie and more.

Hendershot’s 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

HENDERSHOT’S OPEN MIC

NIGHT Discover new Athens musical talent. Hosted by Lizzy Farrell. Porterhouse Grill

6–8:30 p.m. www.porterhousegrill athens.com

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens captained by drummer extraordinaire Mason Davis and featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces. The trio sails nimbly through choice selections of the American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Thursday 4

40 Watt Club

7 p.m. $5 (w/ UGA ID), $15. www.40watt.com

VIC CHESNUTT SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARDS Classic City Rotary presents its 7th annual songwriting competition. Performances include last year’s winner Elijah Johnston, guest performer Caroline Herring, and this year’s finalists Cardynal, Dylan Loftin, Erin Lovett, Night Palace and Trvy. Athentic Brewing Co. Blues and Brews Residency. 6–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

RICK FOWLER ACOUSTIC BAND

Original, guitar-driven local bluesrock group.

Ciné

“Finding Purpose: The Brookwood Story” Premiere. 5:15 p.m. & 7:15 p.m. (film screenings). $30. www. lovecraftathens.org

T. HARDY MORRIS Local singersongwriter and guitarist plays twangy, reflective folk-rock. (6 p.m.)

LOVE.CRAFT BAND Crew members of Love.Craft Athens perform songs. (8:30 p.m.)

DJ CORTADO End the night with a dance party. (9 p.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Attaboy Tapes Presents. 8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

JAKE BROWER Athens musician and composer celebrating the release of the tape of Psychofunky Dancing, a psyched out homerecorded EP.

DOG PERSON (SOLO) Lauren and Steve play Dog Person songs for you.

KIRAN FERNANDES Member of Immaterial Possession and virtuosic musician with a rich repertoire of diverse folk and world music.

FERMENTED ANGELS Queer lo-fi indie folk from Athens.

Georgia Museum of Art Museum Mix. 8–11 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org

DJ STELLA ZINE Member of feminist punk band Pagan Holiday plays a mix of riot grrrl, queer and punk artists.

Hotel Indigo

Live After Five Series. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/Aubrey

EntertainmentAthensGA

THE OLD SOULS Acoustic Americana duo.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenschoral society.com

ATHENS CHORAL SOCIETY “The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace” by Welsh composer Karl Jenkins combines the 15th-century folk song

“L’homme arme” with words from the Bible, the Islamic Call to Prayer and the Mahabharata, as well as writings by Kipling, Tennyson and Sankichi Toge.

Live Wire

7 p.m. (doors). livewireathens.com

ELI CAIN Young country singersongwriter from Watkinsville.

WILL SLATER No info available.

GAMI RODRIGUEZ No info available.

Nowhere Bar

8 p.m. www.facebook.com/Nowhere

BarAthens

THE SNOZZBERRIES Asheville band combining high-energy psychedelia, progressive rock and deep-fried funk.

Southern Brewing Co.

6–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

KARAOKE NIGHT Every Thursday evening.

Friday 5

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.

Ciné 10 p.m. $10. www.athenscine.com

MURDER THE MOOD Local alternative rock band.

GOURDHEAD Three-piece rock band comprised of Athens music veterans Chris Henderson, Ethan Houseman and Noel Holloway.

FOR LACK OF A TERM New Yorkbased alt-punk quartet.

NIX THE SCIENTIST Progressive rock trio based in Atlanta by way of Athens.

The Cotton Press ACCA retroProm. 8 p.m. $30–40. www.accaging.org/retroprom

THE HIGHBALLS Athens music vets perform a totally awesome set of ’80s dance hits.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com

FRUTE Six-piece dance funk with heavy psychedelic elements and experimentation.

THE ANGELICS Athens alt-rock band described as a cross between The Backseat Lovers and The Smiths.

The Foundry

6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). $8 (adv.), $10. www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA

DANGFLY! Athens-based indie rock band.

TY MANNING AND THE SLAW

DOGS Songwriting project backed by a rock band with deep connections to ’70s and ’80s country.

Georgia Theatre

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $18–20. www.georgiatheatre.com

MDOU MOCTAR Taureg songwriter and musician based in Agadez, Niger, who performs psychedelic desert blues.

IMMATERIAL POSSESSION Local dark psych-folk group celebrates the release of its new album, Mercy of the Crane Folk

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

6 p.m. (doors), 7 p.m. (show). FREE! www.georgiatheatre.com

PARKER WIERLING Athens-based actor and singer-songwriter.

10:30 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre. com

WONDERLAND RANGERS Local rabble-rouser Timi Conley performs dance-tastic psych-pop with his allstar backing band.

Healing Arts Centre

7 p.m. $25. www.healingartscentre.net

CORNFLOWER AND ANGELA BURGESS Sangha Yoga Studio hosts an evening of live music ecstatic dance with vocalist, beatboxer and live looper Cornflower. Hendershot’s

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.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7:30 p.m. $10 (w/ UGA ID), $25. pac. uga.edu

THE HAMMERSTEINS: A MUSICAL THEATRE FAMILY Hosted by grandson Oscar Andy Hammerstein III, the performance features songs from Hammerstein’s Show Boat, Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, The King and I and The Sound of Music. A free pre-performance talk will be held in Ramsey Concert Hall at 6:45 p.m.

International Grill & Bar

7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ IGBAthensGA

CUSTOM CONCERN Local rock band playing covers and originals.

Live Wire Summer Show and Silent Disco. 8 p.m. (doors), 9 p.m. (show), 11:30 p.m. (disco). $10. www.livewire athens.com

TYL3R DAVIS Athens-based recording artist and vocalist with heartfelt melodies and confident flows.

JELANI IMANI Recording artist, record producer, audio engineer, actor and singer from Ellenwood.

TRVY High-energy hip-hop artist performing with his alternativeinfluenced band.

CHARLES INFAMOUS Atlantabased rapper and producer.

KAMAHRI Singer and producer.

WYATT PATTON Young up-andcoming hip-hop artist from Athens.

HO77IS Local DJ.

DJ SUBLIME Moniker of DJ Matthew Burgess.

MaiKai Kava Lounge

T.R.E. Presents: A Hip-Hop Show on Cinco de Mayo. 5–10 p.m. FREE! rickyhall_92@yahoo.com

JAYCEE No info available.

LZYBU+ New local artist.

KILLA CABBI Echobass Records artist with a range of electronic and hip-hop styles.

NIÑO BROWN moniker of Athens musician Cortez Garza.

CARDYNAL Local upstart who raps, produces and engineers.

RBXXX Local MC, promoter, wordsmith and DJ.

ELLWIN Electronic DJ.

Rabbit Hole Studios

7–11 p.m. FREE! (karaoke), $5 (headphones).

KARAOKE & SILENT DISCO

DANCE PARTY Sing a song or dance to songs with headphones.

The Root

9 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ AubreyEntertainmentAthensGA

LOGAN PRESSLEY & THE BROKEN STRINGS Local singersongwriter and guitarist strumming country and Southern rock tunes. VFW Post 2872

8 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ vfwpost2872

COUNTRY RIVER BAND Classic country rock band.

Saturday 6

40 Watt Club

6 p.m. $20. www.40watt.com

ATHENS BUSINESS ROCKS

Local businesses form bands and compete in a battle of the bands to raise funds for Nuçi’s Space.

Athentic Brewing Co.

6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

BOOMERANG Local author and communications expert Randy Gaddo’s musical project.

Bishop Park

Athens Farmers Market. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.athensfarmers market.net

THE MARMALADS No info available. (8 a.m.)

DOSTERS No info available. (10 a.m.)

Creature Comforts Brewing Co.

Nine Year Anniversary. 12–10 p.m. $9 (adv.), $12. bit.ly/Creature Comforts9

THE BOOTY BOYZ DJs Immuzikation, Twin Powers and Z-Dog spin dance hits into the night.

VISION VIDEO Local goth-pop group featuring members of Shehehe and Booty Boyz.

ABBEY ROAD LIVE! Beloved local Beatles tribute band known for its attention to detail and musical proficiency.

MISNOMER Local improvisational fusion group with a funky, jazzy sound.

WAY PAST COOL New local band that plays fast, catchy, melodic sing-a-long pop-punk anthems with a classic ’90s vibe.

BROKEN STRING BAND Athens band blending Western folk with indie rock.

DJ OSMOSE International touring

DJ and Athens resident lays down an all-vinyl set of funk, soul, boogie and more.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com

VG MINUS Local retro rockers honing in on an ’80s sound.

THE LANES Local alt-rock band.

Front Porch Bookstore

6 p.m. FREE! Find Front Porch Bookstore on Facebook

MON DON RAM BAND Students of Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School.

Georgia Theatre

9 p.m. $13 (adv.), $26. www.georgia theatre.com

THE DOLLY PARTY Dolly Parton-inspired country Western diva dance party.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

11 p.m. FREE! www.georgiatheatre. com

DJ REINDEER GAMES Athens DJ mixes trap, hip hop, moombahton, ’90s hits and indie dance tunes.

International Grill & Bar

7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ IGBAthensGA

SWING THEORY Local jazz collective performing your favorite jazz classics.

9 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/IGB

AthensGA

PERSIAN DANCE PARTY Dance to music from the 1360s and 1370s. Red Line Athens

7 p.m. $5. www.instagram.com/red line_athens

YANKEE ROSES Atlanta troubadour of alt-folk Americana.

HERE BE MONSTERS Folk-punk solo act with history-laden lyricism atop melodic guitar wizardry.

GIFT ECONOMY Mindful, melodic folk punk.

COWBOY KEROUAC Queer anarcho country.

Tif Sigfrids

5 p.m. FREE! www.tifsigfrids.com

MARCEL SLETTEN Ambient electronica musician and owner of the independent label Primordial Void. Tonight’s event is the first of three release shows for Sletten’s third full-length album, Mammatus Clouds, which will be released on May 5.

CALL Local noise duo consisting of Jon Vogt (Frog Like Leaf) and Michael Pierce (The Electric Nature), incorporating instruments such as generator organ and prepared guitar.

Sunday 7

ACC Library

3 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

LOVE.CRAFT BAND Crew members of Love.Craft Athens perform songs.

Redline Athens

7 p.m. Donations accepted. www. instagram.com/redline_athens

BAD IDOLS Like early Green Day on speed from Knoxville.

SLINK Local emo that’s both energetic and meditative.

THE GRAWKS Punk and garageinspired local rock and roll band.

NOISE MOUNTAIN Melodic punk with nods to Bob Mould and Cheap Trick.

Monday 8

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com

JOHN KIRAN FERNANDES Local Elephant 6 stalwart and multiinstrumentalist works his improvisational magic on the clarinet and loop pedal.

LEA LEA & THE HOLY CHOIR

Dreamy local indie-folk artist looping guitar.

BLAKE HORNSBY Experimental folk artist based in western NC, with work based on Indian ragas and American primitive fingerstyle.

CHARLIE REEVES Local musician and host of the podcast “A Gen That Talks.”

Tuesday 9

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar. com

PINKEST Atlanta band bashing keys in a noisy cavalcade of theatrical glory.

JOHNNY FALLOON Deranged local band with hard-hitting songs and complex theatrics.

JOSEY Athens-based indie pop artist, incorporating audience participation and off-kilter comedy into her sets.

CHAINHEAD Driving post-hardcore band with a dash of techno swing from Athens’ industrial zone.

Georgia Theatre Rooftop

8 p.m. $10. www.georgiatheatre.com

FREEMAN LEVERETT Dreamy, hypnotic and danceable songs with thoughtful lyrics and cosmopolitan influences, accompanied by a live band. Tour kickoff show!

ROSE HOTEL Atlanta psych-folk project led by singer-songwriter Jordan Reynolds.

ANNIE LEETH Local producer and violinist loops drums, synths and strings in a Laurie Anderson and Andrew Bird inspired project.

Hendershot’s No Phone Party. 7 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

KENOSHA KID Instrumental adventure-jazz group centered around the rollicking compositions of Dan Nettles and featuring Luca Lombardi, Seth Hendershot and various guests. The April residency shows coincide with Hendershot’s No Phone Parties.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

7 p.m. $12. pac.uga.edu

GEORGIA CHILDREN’S CHORUS

The chorus presents “25 Years of Unstoppable Music.”

Down the Line

5/10 Esther Rose, Clover County (Flicker Theatre & Bar)

5/10 Red Oak String Band (Creature Comforts Brewery)

5/10 Railroad Earth (Georgia Theatre)

5/10 Norma Rae, The Lickskillets (Ciné) f

event calendar

Tuesday 2

FILM: Club Ned Anime Society (ACC Library) Join club members to watch anime series like “Mobile Police Patlabor,” “Jujutsu Kaisen,” “No Game No Life” and more. 6:15–8:30 p.m. FREE! www.discord.gg/Ma9BmSMG

FILM: Thumbs Up For Mother Universe (Ciné) Filmed over 20 years, this documentary tells the story of artist and musician Lonnie Holley. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenscine.com

THEATER: Driving Miss Daisy (On Stage Playhouse) This story follows Daisy Werthan, an elderly Jewish widow, and her Black chauffeur, Hoke. Over the years, their relationship transcends racial prejudices and social conventions. May 2, 7:30 p.m. May 5–6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $20. www.onstagewalton.org

Wednesday 3

ART: Artful Conversation: John Linton Chapman (Georgia Museum of Art) Molly Stevens, education programs assistant, will lead an open-ended dialogue on John Linton Chapman’s photograph “Via Appia.” 2 p.m. FREE! www. georgiamuseum.org

COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Homegrown townie improv that invites you to bring some interesting suggestions to help create improv magic on the spot. Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

COMEDY: Comedy Night (The Root) Lanny Farmer hosts a comedy show featuring Keonna Scott, Reid Pegram, Connor Bentley, Delisia Nicholas and Olivia Searcy. 8 p.m. www.facebook.com/therootathens

EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods and a variety of arts and crafts. Live music begins at 6 p.m. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent at the market. Every Wednesday, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net

FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A tour group is stalked by a maniac who collects an eyeball from each victim, and the travelers must deduce which one of them is the killer in Eyeball. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ bloodeverywhere.athens

GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a simple story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Lego Builders Club (Bogart Library) Lego lovers of all ages are invited; blocks will be available for younger builders under the age of 7. 3:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Drawing Club for Teens (K.A. Artist Shop) In this weekly

club for teens led by local artist James Greer, participants will learn a new fundamental skill for drawing with ink and graphite each week.

5–6:30 p.m. $25 (drop-in), $180 (semester pass). www.kaartist.com

LECTURES & LIT: Café au Libris (ACC Library) Author Cat Shook will discuss her debut novel If We’re Being Honest. 7 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

LECTURES & LIT: Word of Mouth

Poetry Open Mic (The Globe)

Athens’ longest-running spoken word event has returned the first Wednesday of every month. This month’s special guests are Athens poet laureate Jeff Fallis and Noel Holston, author of Life After Deaf 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ athenswordofmouth

MEETINGS: Sewing Circle (Bogart Library) Bring your own sewing and crafting projects for dedicated time to work and discuss. First Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

Thursday 4

ART: Detention to Detail: BFA Exit Show 2023 (Lamar Dodd School of Art) Celebrate the work of the 2023 graphic design cohort and peruse stunning designs with topics ranging from algal blooms and walkable cities to language loss and death. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. art.uga.edu

ART: Studio Workshop: Painting Spring Blooms (Georgia Museum of Art) Michael Ross will teach attendees how to make hybrid paintings after studying landscape and botanical paintings. Registration required. 6 p.m. $25. gmoatours@uga.edu

ART: Museum Mix (Georgia Museum of Art) The art galleries are open late with refreshments and music by DJ Stella Zine. 8–11 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

EVENTS: Power of the Purse (Athens Country Club) United Way of Northeast Georgia’s annual fundraiser will feature guest speaker Ronda Rich, a silent auction and a wine pull encouraging women to connect with fellow philanthropists. 11 a.m.–1 p.m. $40. www.unitedwaynega.org

EVENTS: Diamond Hill Farm Stand (Athentic Brewing Co.) Vegetables and fresh flowers are available on hand and pre-ordered. Every Thursday, 4–6 p.m. www.diamondhillfarmathens.com

EVENTS: Headshot Happy Hour (Graduate Athens) Local photographer Macy Williams hosts a headshot session featuring drinks and food. First Thursdays, 5:30 p.m. $30. www.facebook.com/ graduateathens

EVENTS: Boulevard Brass Band (595 Nanthahala Ave.) Bring your instrument, meet outdoors and rehearse songs for beginners and advanced musicians. Every Thursday, 7–8 p.m. FREE! calclements@ gmail.com

FILM: Finding Purpose: The Brookwood Story (Ciné) This documentary will premiere with two showings (5:15 p.m. & 7:15 p.m.) followed by live music from T. Hardy Morris then The Love. Craft Band with food and a dance party. Ticket sales benefit Love.

Craft Athens. 5–11 p.m. $30. www. lovecraftathens.org

GAMES: Escape the Gallery Game Night (UGA Special Collections Library) Explore Hargrett’s newest exhibit, “Freemasonry in Georgia: Ideals, Imagery, and Impact,” and unearth the secret clues secured within by Escape the Space. RSVP to jess.grant@uga.edu by May 3. 5:30–7 p.m. FREE! www.libs. uga.edu

GAMES: Thursday Trivia (Johnny’s New York Style Pizza) Test your trivia knowledge with host Jon Head. 7–9 p.m. www.johnnyspizza. com

KIDSTUFF: Let’s Talk About That (ACC Library) This weekly program offers inquisitive minds the chance to develop critical thinking skills. Grades 6–12. 4–5 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

MEETINGS: KnitLits Knitting Group (Bogart Library) Knitters of all levels are invited to have fun, share craft ideas and knit to their hearts’ content. Every Thursday, 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

MEETINGS: Oconee Rivers Audubon Society (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Mark Williams, a professor in the UGA Anthropology Department, will speak on the Oconee people’s Hitchiti language with a focus on local bird species names. 7 p.m. FREE! www.oconeeriversaudubon.org

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org

THEATER: Moon Over Buffalo (Quinn Hall) Athens Creative Theatre presents a play set in 1953 following two hopeful actors who hear an important theater critic will be attending their matinee. May 4–6, 7:30 p.m. $15. www.mortontheatre.com

Friday 5

COMEDY: First Friday Comedy (Mai Kai Kava) Miles Bunch hosts a comedy show featuring talents such as Dom Smith, Emma Berg, Adam Beahan and headliner Tamar Rubin. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook. com/maikaikavaga

COMEDY: Improv Deathmatch (Work.Shop) Two improv teams must out-wit, out-commit and out-stupid each other through challenges to survive and win the rubber chicken. 8–9 p.m. $5. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: Cinco De Mayo: Luchador Wrestling (Southern Brewing Co., Monroe) Cheer on professional wrestling matches. Food vendor Strange Tacos will be on site. 5–7 p.m. www.sobrewco. com

EVENTS: ACCA retroProm (The Cotton Press) Athens Community Council on Aging’s fundraiser invites the community to dress up and dance, with music performed by The Highballs. 8 p.m.–12 a.m. $30–40. www.accaging.org/ retroprom

GAMES: Friday Night Initiative (Online: Tyche’s Games) Learn how to play a new RPG game with others on Discord. New players welcome. 7 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames. com

KIDSTUFF: Meet & Play (Bogart Library) Drop in for facilitated open play with age-appropriate toys. Best for ages 6 & under. Every Friday, 10:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Art Card Club (K.A. Artist Shop) In this weekly club led by local artists Katy Lipscomb and Tyler Fisher, participants will draw, paint, collage and create a collection of Art Cards. Pre-teen club, 4:30–6 p.m. Teen club, 6:30–8 p.m. $25 (drop-in), $180 (semester pass). www.kaartist.com

OUTDOORS: Shoal Lily Hike (Broad River Campground) Join the Broad River Watershed Association for this annual walk to the shoal lilies. Email for registration and detailed directions. 9 a.m. $25. info@ brwa.org

THEATER: Moon Over Buffalo (Quinn Hall) Athens Creative Theatre presents a play set in 1953 following two hopeful actors who hear an important theater critic will be attending their matinee. May 4–6, 7:30 p.m. $15. www.mortontheatre.com

THEATER: Driving Miss Daisy (On Stage Playhouse) This story follows Daisy Werthan, an elderly Jewish widow, and her Black chauffeur, Hoke. Over the years, their relationship transcends racial prejudices and social conventions. May 2, 7:30 p.m. May 5–6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $20. www.onstagewalton.org

THEATER: Five Blue Haired Ladies Sitting on a Green Park Bench (Town & Gown Players) In this comedy, a group of women on the cusp of 80 share memories and observations. May 5 & 6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $5. www.townand gownplayers.org

Saturday 6

ART: Open Gallery (Southern Star Studio) Watch artists work in the ceramic studio, and view the pottery gallery. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.southernstarstudioathens.com

CLASSES: Pointed Dip Pen Calligraphy (K.A. Artist Shop) Artist Kristen MacCarthy will teach attendees how to use traditional tools to create purposeful strokes and beautiful letterforms. 1–3 p.m. $55. www.kaartist.com

EVENTS: Spring Harvest Festival (Farmview Market) Celebrate the opening of the farmers market season with with fresh produce, artisan crafts, live music, crafts for kids, a petting zoo and more. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. FREE! www.farmviewmarket. com

EVENTS: Indie South Springtacular (Bishop Park) Shop this annual spring market featuring over 100 makers, artists and curators, food trucks, live music and more. May 6–7, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.theindiesouth.com

EVENTS: Creature’s 9th Anniversary (Creature Comforts Brewery) Celebrate with special anniversary beers, delicious food, live music and an art market. 12–10 p.m. $9 (adv.), $12. www.creaturecomfortsbeer.com

EVENTS: Mother’s Day Artist Market (Athentic Brewing Co.) Shop with local vendors for that perfect gift. 1–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

EVENTS: Seis De Mayo Luchador Wrestling Night (Southern Brewing Co.) Cheer on professional wrestling matches. 7–11 p.m. www. sobrewco.com

GAMES: Learn to Play the Shadowrun RPG (Tyche’s Games) Face off against the mega-corporations in a dark future. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

LECTURES & LIT: Firestorm Over Darmstadt (Oconee County Library) Part of the History Lecture Series, Bill Cosgrove will present on one of the deadliest raids of WW2. 2 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/oconee

OUTDOORS: Shoal Lily Float (Broad River Campground) Join the Broad River Watershed Association for this annual float to see the shoal lilies. Email for registration and detailed directions. 9 a.m. $25. info@brwa.org

PERFORMANCE: Season 2 Dance Recital (Morton Theatre) The Studio Athens presents its recital for all youth recreational dance classes. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. $10. www.mortontheatre.com

PERFORMANCE: BLOOM (Morton Theatre) The Studio Athens presents a dance performance featuring The Studio Company, The Studio Competition Team, Youth Tap Company, Normaltown Tap Company and Triple Threat Musical Theatre Company. 7 p.m. $15. www.mortontheatre.com

PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Drag For All (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a fabulous night of drag fun. Ages 12 & under get in free. 8 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirlcabaret.com

THEATER: Moon Over Buffalo (Quinn Hall) Athens Creative Theatre presents a play set in 1953 following two hopeful actors who hear an important theater critic will be attending their matinee. May 4–6, 7:30 p.m. $15. www.mortontheatre.com

THEATER: Driving Miss Daisy (On Stage Playhouse) This story follows Daisy Werthan, an elderly Jewish widow, and her Black chauffeur, Hoke. Over the years, their relationship transcends racial prejudices and social conventions. May 2, 7:30 p.m. May 5–6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $20. www.onstagewalton.org

THEATER: Five Blue Haired Ladies Sitting on a Green Park Bench (Town & Gown Players) In this comedy, a group of women on the cusp of 80 share memories and observations. May 5 & 6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $5. www.townand gownplayers.org

Sunday 7

ART: Stuart McCall Libby (Jittery Joe’s Five Points) Celebrate the artist of the month with a pop-up reception. 5–7 p.m. FREE! www. instagram.com/jitteryjoescafes

CLASSES: Athens YOGA Collective (Athentic Brewing Co.) Enjoy a yoga class on the patio. First and third Sundays, 12 p.m. FREE! www. athenticbrewing.com

COMEDY: Blaugez Open Mic (Buvez) This show-up/go-up open mic is open to professional and amateur comics alike. Every Sunday, 7 p.m. (show). FREE! www. facebook.com/buvezathens

EVENTS: 1000 Meals (Hendershot’s) Stop by for a free meal with no questions asked. 9 a.m. FREE! www.hendershotsathens.com

EVENTS: Indie South Springtacular (Bishop Park) Shop this annual spring market featuring over 100 makers, artists and curators, food trucks, live music and more. May 6–7, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. www.theindiesouth.com

EVENTS: Balance is BS (Epting Events) Enjoy brunch, bubbles, community and a roundtable discussion about womanhood, self-care and trying to balance it all. Proceeds will benefit Athens Parent Wellbeing. 12–2 p.m. $35–55. www.purebalanceathens.com

EVENTS: Rabbit Hole Sunday Market (Rabbit Hole Studios) Small businesses, artists, farmers, musicians and creative entrepreneurs will be showcased. A drumming and song circle will be held for the last two hours. Every Sunday. 1–5 p.m. FREE! www.rabbitholestudios. org/markets

EVENTS: East Athens Creative Market (585 Vine St.) A celebration of community and togetherness featuring culinary arts, fashion, jewelry, resources and more. First and last Sundays, 1–5 p.m. FREE! 706-352-0244

EVENTS: 7th Annual Kitten Shower (Athens Area Humane Society) Benefitting the Athens Area Humane Society, this kitten-themed afternoon features live music, a raffle, desserts, snacks, drinks, kids games, merch, a Hissing Booth and adoptable kittens. 2–4 p.m. $10–25. www.athenshumanesociety.org/ kitten-shower-tickets

GAMES: Sunday Trivia with Solo Entertainment (Southern Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge. 4–6 p.m. FREE! www.sobrewco. com

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (The Foundry) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Sundays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens

KIDSTUFF: Cards For Mom (K.A. Artist Shop) Use a variety of fine papers, paints, markers, pens and collage elements to create handmade cards for Mother’s Day. Supplies provided. 1–3 p.m. $25. www.kaartist.com

LECTURES & LIT: Book & a Nosh Book Club (ACC Library) Explore the many themes of the celebrated book of poems The Deaf Republic, facilitated by Melisa CahnmannTaylor. 2–3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque.org

THEATER: Driving Miss Daisy (On Stage Playhouse) This story follows Daisy Werthan, an elderly Jewish widow, and her Black chauffeur, Hoke. Over the years, their relationship transcends racial prejudices and social conventions. May 2, 7:30 p.m. May 5–6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $20. www.onstagewalton.org

THEATER: Five Blue Haired Ladies Sitting on a Green Park Bench (Town & Gown Players) In this comedy, a group of women on the cusp of 80 share memories and observations. May 5 & 6, 8 p.m. May 7, 2 p.m. $5. www.townand gownplayers.org

Monday 8

CLASSES: Gentle Hatha Yoga (Athens Community Council on Aging) McKenzie Raymond from Feel Free Yoga leads this class. All skill levels welcome. Every Monday, 1–2 p.m. $5 (CAL members), $10 (non-members). abarefoot@ accaging.org

EVENTS: Food Service Compost Workshop (ACC Solid Waste) Learn how various local restaurants participate in composting. 2 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com

EVENTS: Ballroom Social Dance (Athens Community Council on Aging) Melissa Gogo and Geoff Newell demonstrate the steps for the dance style of the month, followed by a social dance. No partner required. May is Tango. Second Mondays, 3–4:30 p.m. $8 (CAL members), $10 (non-members). abarefoot@accaging.org

EVENTS: Composting Facility Tour (ACC Landfill & Composting Facility) Watch how ACC composts food scraps, leaf and limb, and biosolids through a process called aerated static piles. Registration required. 3:30 p.m. FREE! recycle@accgov. com

GAMES: Game Night (Rabbit Hole Studios) Play board games like chess and Catan, systems like Wii and PlayStation, and outdoor sports. Every Monday, 7–11 p.m. FREE! www.rabbitholestudios.org

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Dooley’s Bar and Grill) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/

ClassicCityTriviaCo

GAMES: Monday Trivia with Erin (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your knowledge with host Erin. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com

KIDSTUFF: Monday Funday Story Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for movement, songs, crafts and learning fun. Ages 3–5 years. Registration suggested. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Meet Author Ilya Kaminsky (Buvez) Ilya Kaminsky will read poetry from Deaf Republic, poet Katie Farris will also read selections from Standing in the Forest of Being Alive, and Athens Mountain Singers will perform Balkan music. 5:30 p.m. FREE! www. arts.gov/initiatives/nea-big-read/ deaf-republic

MEETINGS: ACC Federation of Neighborhoods (Ciné) The Federation of Neighborhoods informs neighborhoods about local issues that affect them. This month’s topic is gang and crime prevention. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ federationofneighborhoods

Tuesday 9

CLASSES: Abstract Art in Acrylic (K.A. Artist Shop) Local artist Lauren Adams will lead a painting class exploring both abstract and nonrepresentational techniques. 6–8 p.m. $35. www.kaartist.com

EVENTS: Compost Giveaway (CHaRM) Bring your own container and shovel up a free sample of compost to improve soil and help plants grow. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/5894/ Hard-to-Recycle-Materials-CHaRM

EVENTS: Craft Café (ACC Library)

Enjoy a cozy evening of crafting with hot tea, cocoa, snacks and fun fiber art activities (i.e. knitting, cross-stitching, jewelry making, etc.). Open to all ages. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/athens

EVENTS: No Phone Party (Hendershot’s) Disconnect to connect with

a phone-free, laptop-free happy hour. Every Tuesday, 6–9 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

FILM: The Right to Read (ACC Library) This documentary follows the stories of an activist, a teacher and two American families who fight to improve childhood literacy. 6 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

GAMES: Lunch and Learn New Games (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and try out some new games. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (Akademia Brewing Co.) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/ ClassicCityTriviaCo

GAMES: Bad Dog Trivia (Amici Athens) Test your trivia knowledge with host TJ Wayt. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. www.facebook.com/baddogathens

MEETINGS: Memoir Writing Group (Bogart Library) During this monthly group, hear memoirs from others and learn tips on how to write your own. 5:30–7:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players are welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. www.athenspetanque. org

Wednesday 10

ART: Tour at Two (Georgia Museum of Art) These drop-in public tours feature highlights of the permanent collection and are led by museum docents. 2 p.m. FREE! www.georgiamuseum.org

COMEDY: Gorgeous George’s Improv League (Buvez) Homegrown townie improv that invites you to bring some interesting suggestions to help create improv magic on the spot. Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

EVENTS: Compost Giveaway (CHaRM) Bring your own container and shovel up a free sample of compost to improve soil and help plants grow. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/5894/ Hard-to-Recycle-Materials-CHaRM

EVENTS: Athens Farmers Market (Creature Comforts Brewery) Markets offer fresh produce, flowers, eggs, meats, prepared foods and a variety of arts and crafts. Live music begins at 6 p.m. AFM doubles SNAP dollars spent at the market. Every Wednesday, 5–8 p.m. www. athensfarmersmarket.net

GAMES: Shadowfist Power Lunch (Tyche’s Games) Come down with your lunch and play Shadowfist. New players welcome. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tychesgames.com

GAMES: Classic City Trivia (The Local 706) Test your trivia knowledge with host Garrett Lennox. 7 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/

ClassicCityTriviaCo

KIDSTUFF: Busy Bee Toddler Time (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for rhymes, songs, puppets and a simple story. 10 a.m. & 11 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Lego Builders Club (Bogart Library) Lego lovers of all ages are invited; blocks will be available for younger builders under the age of 7. 3:30 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

LECTURES & LIT: Green Thumb Lecture with Suki Janssen (UGA Extension Office) Gardeners are invited to an informative presentation on the importance of efficient composting, materials, and recommended structures and methods. Registration required. 6 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/gardening f

music

Marcel Sletten

PRIMORDIAL VOID’S OWNER RELEASES MAMMATUS CLOUDS

By Gordon Lamb music@flagpole.com

When musician and composer Marcel Sletten moved to Athens about two years ago from Lodi, CA, he knew of our indie pop history, but much less of our town’s rich history of experimental music. However, he immediately began making his mark to such a degree that it’d be unreasonable to not quickly include both him and his label, Primordial Void, in that history.

For a slice of the music scene containing seemingly endless micro-niches and weapons-grade pretension, Sletten is refreshingly direct, plain-spoken and palpably enthusiastic. Among his initial exposure to Athens’ current scene was a friendship he made online with Taylor Ross from Surface to Air Missive, and he says, “…and then I was also a fan of some of the more contemporary bands here like Antlered Aunt Lord and The Dream Scene as well. Of course, I love all of the older stuff, but I got into those three bands pretty much at the same time, so I became kind of fascinated with Athens’ contemporary underground scene.”

Although not immediately discernible in his own music, Sletten is an unabashed fan of some of the latter 20th century’s pop masters, including Fleetwood Mac, Graham Parker and Elvis Costello. Working exclusively with his laptop, his MIDI keyboard and “Ableton, Audacity and the occasional synth website,” Sletten’s noted lack of wearing his inspirations on his sleeve is largely structural.

“I think that’s… just a reflection of my setup. I get really inspired by artists like [the aforementioned] but when I actually make the music that’s in my head, it’s all super dreamy, reverb-drenched synth jams, because that’s kinda like my go-to,” says Sletten.

He’s also inspired by huge works that are quite focused, noting that his 2022 album Irish Words and a Bottle of Myrrh, as well as his brand new-full length Mammatus Clouds, were each inspired by megaworks such as Tusk and Get Happy

The release of the new album, which comes out May 5 with a show scheduled for May 6 at Tif Sigfrids, will occasion Sletten to play his first shows out of town, too. To date, he’s got performances scheduled for both Queens and Brooklyn, NY the week following his Athens release show.

Speaking of performances, Sletten breaks down the mystery of what’s actually happening behind his laptop screen when he plays. “I alternate between triggering a collage of samples of my own sounds and riffing over basic tracks in Ableton. It’s all live sound manipulation… But, basically, I’ll have the basic track of one song and manipulate that endlessly through pitch-shifting, reverb and echo effects, etcetera and then have these Bitcrushed noise synths that I use to riff over the basic track,” he explains. The use of some prerecorded elements isn’t a hindrance to the immediacy of his live performance nor a prescriptive determinant of his presentation.

“What I do live is very improvised and rarely rehearsed that much beforehand. I like to surprise myself during the performance, so I can never tell how a new version of a track is going to go. I’m into stuff like the Dead, too, so I like applying that element of improvisation and jamming to computer music,” he says. “I’ve had some chaotic performances because of this, but others go amazingly well and I get into some pretty great droney psych grooves. It’s essentially a free-form version of what I already do in the ‘studio,’ i.e. my bedroom.”

Mammatus Clouds features a wide breadth of Sletten’s explorations, including the primitive futurism of “That Means A Lot” and the Japanese koto of “Ghost,” each of which are outtakes from his 2022 album. Beyond these are the soft pop charms of the Cocteau Twins-ish “Pressure Drop (featuring Reed Winckler),” thrilling classical trills (“I’m Your Rider”), harsh EBM (“Russian Hill”), Salsa-

dipped hip hop (“Pach”), ambient drones (“Dunsmuir I,” “Dunsmuir II” and “Dunsmuir III”), and others.

When asked if he’d deliberately composed tracks for this album as a singular concept or found himself tasked with compiling existing tracks until the record was full, he responded, “A bit of both… I definitely incorporated older material on this album, just like how I did on Irish Words, but there was also a plethora of fresh material that was all recorded within a single week. I tend to work like that sometimes. These very manic bursts of creative energy come to me at the most random moments, but I think at that time I was really going through some heavy emotional stuff as well.”

Sletten is curious and excited, both of which are personality traits often in short supply among musicians who, as a class, can find themselves rewarded for aloofness and similarity. He says, “I think the music coming out of Athens and New York right now is the most exciting thing to me, personally… I feel like overproduced indie pop and faux-underground club music are the biggest bummers right now.”

Always forward looking, Sletten is optimistic and goal-oriented. “I mainly want to continue to work on my own music and organize live shows, but I definitely have some special releases lined up this year by some very talented people, most of which are Athens-based, so that’ll be exciting. The label will turn five in August which is crazy to me, so I want to do some sort of festival either here or in New York to celebrate.”

Sletten and I discussed many things, any of which could have taken this story in a different direction. But those stories are still to be written and will come in time. And while he’s not exactly a beginner, Sletten’s story is still in its early chapters, and there’s much more to be written about him, his label and his work. f

WHO: Marcel Sletten Album Release Show

WHEN: Saturday, May 6, 5 p m

WHERE: Tif Sigfrids

HOW MUCH: FREE!

JASON THRASHER

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 ART (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Artists can submit up to three works of art for inclusion in the exhibition “Myth, Magic and Mystery.” All media will be considered. Find the submission form online. Deadline May 24. $25–30 submission fee. www.ocaf.com

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Seeking submissions of artwork inspired by nature for an exhibition celebrating the SCNC’s 50th anniversary. Find guidelines and applications online. Deadline May 10. www.sandycreek naturecenterinc.org/events

CALL FOR EXHIBITION PROPOS-

ALS (Lyndon House Arts Center)

Artists, artist groups and curators can submit proposals for original exhibition ideas. Artists can also submit images of their work for consideration in larger group or themed shows organized by the center. Proposals will be reviewed Sept. 20, 11:59 p.m. www.accgov.com/6657/

Exhibition-Proposal-Form

JOKERJOKERTV CALL FOR ART-

ISTS (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

MUSEUM MADNESS (Georgia Museum of Art) As part of the museum’s 75th anniversary celebration, an art competition pits 64 works from its collection against one another to see which will emerge as the people’s favorite. Voting runs every weekday on Instagram (@georgiamuseum) through July. Winner announced Aug. 26. www.georgiamuseum.org

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

ART CLASSES (K.A. Artist Shop)

“Fractions of a Second: Intro to Analog B+W Photography.” May 2 & May 9, 6–8 p.m. $100. “Pointed Dip Pen Calligraphy.” May 6, 1–3 p.m. $55. “Abstract Art in Acrylic.” May 9, 6–8 p.m. “Photo + Edit Your Artwork.” May 20, 1–4 p.m. $75. www.kaartist.com

BEGINNING BELLYDANCE (Healing Arts Centre) This six-week course is

art around town

ACE/FRANCISCO GALLERY & OX FINE ART (675 Pulaski St., Suites 1500 and 1700) The two galleries present “Hearts in Repair: The Necessity of Seduction,” an exhibition by Birmingham artist Karen Graffeo. Through May 20.

ARTWALL@HOTEL INDIGO ATHENS (500 College Ave.) Nancy Everett’s solo show “Classic Inspirations” includes paintings that celebrate Athens and the Southeast. Through July.

ATHENAEUM (287 W. Broad St.) This final thesis exhibition celebrates the graduating class of MFA students: AJ Aremu, Mickey Boyd, Zahria Cook, J Diamond, Shaunia Grant, Chad Hayward, Huey Lee, Jason Rafferty, Rachel Seburn, Ethan Snow and Lee Villalobos. Through May 11.

ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY LIBRARY (2025 Baxter St.) “History with Chutzpah: Remarkable Stories of the Southern Jewish Adventure 1733–Present” is a traveling exhibit from the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum. Through May 7.

ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) “Solo: New Works by Heather Deyling” includes colorful and playful sculptures, wall works and installations inspired by research and observation of natural forms, eco-fiction and climate change. Through May 7.

ATHICA@CINÉ GALLERY (234 W. Hancock Ave.) “Inner Forms: Paintings by Joe Leone” reflects the artist’s love for nature and organic process of blending colors and textures directly on the canvas. Reception May 11, 6–8 p.m. Currently on view through June 25.

CARTER-COILE COUNTRY DOCTORS MUSEUM (111 Marigold Lane, Winterville) The Charles and Kim Burch Medicine Garden contains 19 non-toxic plants which were cultivated for medicinal use in Georgia between 1870–1940. The inaugural rotating exhibit “I’m Not a Doctor But I Play One on TV” takes a look at the most famous country doctor roles from TV, film and print media through artifacts and archival material. Through July 15.

CLASSIC CENTER (300 N. Thomas St.) Classic Gallery 1 shares “Flourish,” an exhibition of artists inspired by the botanical world including Dallis Foshee, Mary Mason Sams, Marisa Mustard and Zahria Cook. Classic Gallery 2 shares “Works by Bess Carter,” a series of brightly painted interior spaces.

DODD GALLERIES (270 River Rd.) The graphic design BFA exit show “Detention to Detail” presents design with topics ranging from algal blooms and walkable cities to language loss and death. Opening reception May 4, 6–8 p.m. Through May 12.

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Artwork by Annelie Klein. Through May 27.

for beginners. Fridays, May 5–June 7, 6-7 p.m.$84. www.healingarts centre.net

BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) “Forge a Fire Poker” covers tapering, bending and scrolling, forge welding, cutting with a chisel and more. May 6 or June 24, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. “Forge a Bottle Opener” will cover making open face and church key style bottle openers. May 27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. In “Basic Blacksmithing: First Time at the Forge,” students will forge and assemble a wall mount rack with three hooks. June 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. “Forge a Throwing Tomahawk” is for experienced students. May 13, May 27 or June 10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $175. “Forge an Iron Age Battle Spear.” May 20 or June 17, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $175. greenhowhandmade@gmail.com

COMMUNITY DANCE IMPROV (work.shop) No experience necessary. Vaccines and boosters required. Sundays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Donations accepted. lisa yaconelli@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

HOMEBUYER EDUCATION WORKSHOP (Zoom) Athens Land Trust presents an eight-hour, HUD-certi-

fied course for first-time homeowners that covers the home-buying process in Georgia. Pre-registration required. May 20 and June 17, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. $10. www.athens landtrust.org

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

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

PUBLIC DANCE (The Studio Athens)

Beginner Rumba lessons followed

GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) Spanning the 18th century to the present, “Object Lessons in American Art” features over 100 works of Euro-American, African-American and Native American art from the Princeton University Art Museum’s collection. Through May 14. • “In Dialogue: Henry Ossawa Tanner, Mentor and Muse.” Through June 18. • “Art is a form of freedom” is a collaborative project through which incarcerated women at the Whitworth Women’s Facility selected works for an exhibition and wrote prose and poetry in response to the pieces. Through July 2. • “Decade of Tradition: Highlights from the Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson Collection.” Through July 3.

GLASSCUBE@INDIGO (500 College Ave.) Zane Cochran presents “Aurora,” a sculptural interpretation of the aurora borealis using 3D geometric figures and lights.

HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) Nirvinyl Album Art presents “Tax Season Session” featuring free and reduced rate canvas album art prints from the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Moody Blues and more. Through mid-May.

JITTERY JOE’S FIVE POINTS (1230 S. Milledge Ave.) Stuart Libby shares a variety of oils on paper, photography and watercolors. Artist reception May 7, 5–7 p.m. On view May 3–31.

JUST PHO… AND MORE (1063 Baxter St.) Susan Pelham’s collages are influenced by Magic Realism, Surrealism, fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Through May.

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER (211 Hoyt St.) “Resilient Civic and Musical Life: Ware-Lyndon House Enslaved and Descendant Stories” includes a film; reading room of books relevant to the African-American experience in art, music and heritage; and a visual timeline relating a fuller and more truthful story of the property and its inhabitants. On view Thursdays–Saturdays. • Juried by Maria Elena Ortiz, curator at The Modern in Fort Worth, TX, the 48th Juried Exhibition features 154 works by 107 local artists. Through May 6. • “Breathing Room” presents artwork by 16 past and present employees of R. Wood Studio, such as Amanda Burk, Kristen Bach, Rinne Allen, David Barnes, Michele Dross and Lou Kregel. Artist reception May 18, 6–7:30 p.m. Currently on view through June 8. • Collections from our Community presents typewriters from Mike Kilpatrick, Tatiana Veneruso, Mike Landers and Lauren Fancher. Through July 1. • “Love.Craft Athens” is a two-part exhibition of artworks created by the crew of Love.Craft Athens, a nonprofit organization that serves adults with developmental disabilities. Reception June 15, 6 p.m. Paintings and ceramics are on view May 6–June 20. Ceramics are on view June 17–Oct. 7.

MADISON-MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER (434 S. Main St., Madison)

“Obsessive Compulsive Drawing” is a collection of work by Amandine Drouet and Richard Sudden. Through mid-June.

by DJ’d waltz, swing, salsa, tango etc. Every fourth Saturday. 7:30–10 p.m. $5 (students), $10 (non-students). www.gmdance.com

SALSA DANCE CLASSES (Starland Lounge & Lanes) Join SALSAthens for Cuban style salsa dance classes. No partner necessary. Beginners welcome. Every Wednesday, 7:30–8:30 p.m. $10. gwyneth. moody@gmail.com

TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS

CLASSES (Live Oak Martial Arts)

Traditional and modern-style Taekwondo, self-defense, grappling and weapons classes are offered for all ages. Classes in Jodo, the art of the Japanese staff and sword, are held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 p.m. Visit the website for a full schedule. liveoakmartial arts@gmail.com, www.liveoak martialarts.com

YOGA AND MORE (Revolution Therapy and Yoga) Revolution is a multipurpose mind-body wellness studio offering yoga and therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed practices. Check website for upcoming classes and programs. www.revolutiontherapy andyoga.com

YOGA CLASSES (Let It Be Yoga Studio, Watkinsville) Classes are offered in Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini, beginner, gentle and other styles. Check online calendar for weekly offerings. www.letitbeyoga.org

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

OCONEE COUNTY LIBRARY (1080 Experiment Station Rd.) The University of North Georgia Department of Visual Art presents student artwork in drawing, design, ceramics and painting. Through April.

OCONEE CULTURAL ARTS FOUNDATION (34 School St., Watkinsville)

Visiting artist Leah Macdonald presents “Wax Flowers,” a series of floral photo encaustic works. Through June 2. • “Bob Marable: Artist, Collector, Benefactor” features 35 paintings and drawings by one of OCAF’s founding members. Through June 2. • The 28th annual “SouthWorks National Juried Exhibition” includes 86 works of art by 83 artists selected by Erin Dunn, curator of modern and contemporary art at the Telfair Museum in Savannah. Through June 2.

ODUM SCHOOL OF ECOLOGY GALLERY (140 E. Green St.) Natural science illustrator C Olivia Carlisle shares insect, botanical and ecosystems illustrations using graphite, carbon pencil, watercolor, acrylic, ink, color pencils and Adobe Photoshop. Through May.

THE ROOK & PAWN (294 W. Washington St.) “Comic Relief” features 22 Athens artists including Sierra Kirsche, Nyala Honda, Kendall Rogers, Mike Groves, Milk Tooth and A.M. Rodriguez. Through June 10.

TIF SIGFRIDS (393 N. Finley St.) Massachusetts-based artist Nora Riggs presents “Creampuffs of Passage,” a collection of paintings depicting scenes and objects from everyday life in surreal settings. Through May 13.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) Six student-curated exhibits explore a variety of topics including the cultural impact of ballet, photography and the abolitionist movement, and women gardeners of the 18th and 19th centuries. Reception May 2, 4 p.m. • “Unequal by Design: Housing in Georgia and America” draws upon historic government documents, photographs, historic newspapers and other records to trace the evolution of housing policy, tackling issues such as zoning, gentrification and suburbanization. Through May 26. • “A Chance to Play: Title IX and Women’s Athletics at UGA” celebrates 50 years of women’s sports at UGA. Through May. • “Freemasonry in Georgia: Ideals, Imagery and Impact” presents items that demonstrate the ambitions and tensions that existed within the secret society. Through July 7.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP OF ATHENS (780 Timothy Rd.)

On view in the Claire and Robert Clements Gallery, “Resonations: Marriage of Photography and Poetry” is a collaborative exhibition that pairs photographs by Lee Reed with poems by Clela Reed. Open Sunday mornings or by appointment at 706-546-7914 through June 25.

WINTERVILLE CENTER FOR COMMUNITY AND CULTURE (371 N. Church St., Winterville) “The Marigold Festival Poster Contest Exhibit” shares artwork by local artists alongside this year’s featured artist, Miranda Bellah. Through June 16.

“Bob Marable: Artist, Collector, Benefactor” is currently on view at the Oconee Cultural Arts Center through June 2.

Help Out

THE ARK’S ADOPT-A-MOM (Athens, GA) Donations will help send flowers and cards to single mothers served by The Ark and residents in local nursing homes and hospices. Visit the website to register and choose a mom. Proceeds benefit

The Ark’s Single Working Mothers Fund, helping single moms avoid eviction and disconnections when they experience a loss of income. Through May. $25. www.athensark. org/adoptamom

MULTIPLE CHOICES BOARD MEMBERS (Athens, GA) Seeking a new board member for Multiple Choices Center for Independent Living, a nonprofit agency of disability advocates serving individuals throughout a 10-county area of Northeastern Georgia. Call for information. 706850-4025

WORLD’S LARGEST DIAPER

DRIVE (Multiple Locations)

The Athens Area Diaper Bank encourages residents in Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, Madison, Oconee and Oglethorpe counties to host diaper drives May 1–6 as part of this worldwide initiative. Email to become involved. beth.staton@ thensareadiapers.com, www.athens areadiaperbank.com

Kidstuff

ART CLUBS (K.A. Artist Shop) Draw, paint, collage and create during weekly Art Card Club meet-ups. Fridays, 4:30–6 p.m. (pre-teens), 6:30–8 p.m. (teens). Drawing Club for Teens, taught by local artist James Greer, is held Wednesdays, 5–6:30 p.m. $25/drop-in, $180 (10-session pass). www.kaartist. com

THE CAMP OF LOVE SUMMER

CAMP (Contact for Location) Ages 3–12 can partake in field trips and fun activities. June 5–July 21, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. 706-540-3397

LUTHEROAD DAYCAMP (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) Activities include games, crafts, worship and special events. Register by May 14. Camp runs June 26–30, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. www.holycrossathens.com/

lutheroad

SPLASH PADS (Multiple Locations)

Walker Park Splash Pad will be open weekends only, May 13–21 and Aug. 5–27, plus regular seasonal hours May 27–July 30.

Rocksprings Park Splash Pad opens May 27. Pools open Memorial Day weekend and close the last weekend of July. www.accgov.com/

splashpad

SUMMER ART CAMPS (K.A. Artist Shop) A variety of half-day or fullday camps are available for preteens and teens. Subjects include drawing, painting, calligraphy, creative journaling, printmaking, collage and more. Weekly camps run June 1–July 17, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or 1:30–5:30 p.m. $250/week of half days, $450/week of full days. www.kaartist.com

SUMMER CAMPS (Athens, GA) ACC

Leisure Services is now registering for summer camps. www.accgov. com/myrec

SUMMER CAMPS (Treehouse Kid & Craft) Camps are offered a variety of themes including digital design and illustration, Halloween, apothecary and flora, glow in the dark and blacklight, food trucks, slime and more. Check website for dates and descriptions. www.treehousekidand craft.com

SUMMER ROCK CAMPS (Full Moon School of Music, Watkinsville) Camps are available for true

beginners to advanced musicians.

Big Rawk Camp runs June 12–25 (650), Beginner Camp runs July 10–14 ($350) and Rock Camp runs July 17–23 ($450). www.thefull moonschool.com/summer-camp

SWIM LESSONS (Athens, GA)

Swim lessons for children ages 3 and older are offered at Heard Park, Lay Park, Memorial Park and Rocksprings Park pools. $33–50/ session. The ACC Leisure Services’ Kinderswim program for 5-year-old children is free. www.accgov.com/ myrec

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

ATHENS COUNCIL OF THE BLIND (Athens, GA) Open to people of all ages with vision impairments, their families and friends. Topics include adaptive equipment, recreational and social opportunities, and advocacy. 706-424-2794, dlwahlers@ gmail.com

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

NEW PARENTS AND INFANT FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP (BYL Family Resource Center) Come as you are for community, snacks and feeding advice from professionals. Babies and children of all ages are welcome. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.byyourleave.org

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS (24th Street Clubhouse) Learn to stop eating compulsively or curb other unwanted food-related behaviors. Every Tuesday, 12 p.m. FREE! Text: 678-736-3697

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

PROJECT SAFE (Family Protection Center) Project Safe hosts a support group for survivors of domestic violence. Mondays, 6:30–8 p.m. www. project-safe.org

RECREATE JOY (Sunny Days Therapeutics) Nuçi’s Space hosts a recreational therapy support group. Improve coping skills and self esteem while reducing depression and anxiety through adaptive yoga, games and leisure education. Sixweek sessions. Wednesdays, 5–6 p.m. tinyurl.com/rnvuhesa

RECOVERY DHARMA (Athens Addiction Recovery Center) 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.athensrecoverydharma.org

SUPPORT GROUPS (Integrity Counseling & Personal Development)

ICPD offers several support groups.

“LGBTQIA+ Young Adults Group” is offered for ages 18–30. “Survivors of Suicide Loss Group” is offered the

first Wednesday of every month, 7–8 p.m. “Veterans, Dependents & Caregivers Benefits Resource & Claim Assistance Group” is offered the first Saturday of every month, 9–10 a.m. www.integrityofjefferson.com

Word on the Street

ATHENS BEER TRAIL TROLLEY

TOURS (Athens, GA) A new trolly tour will provide transportation between six local breweries: Akademia, Athentic, Creature Comforts, Southern Brewing, Terrapin Beer and Normaltown Brewing. Tours run every Thursday and Friday from 3–9 p.m. www.athenstrolleytours.com/ beer-trolley-tour

BREAD FOR LIFE (Classic Center)

Bread for Life’s Career Connect is a five-week program for individuals ages 16–21 who are interested in getting paid to work and develop new skills while learning about career paths in the hospitality, marketing, event planning, sales, culinary and tourism industries.

Application deadline May 19, 5 p.m. Program held May 30–June 27. www.classiccenter.com/384/ Bread-for-Life

INTERNATIONAL COMPOST AWARENESS WEEK (Multiple Locations) Half-price compost will be available, and residents can bring buckets of food scraps and other compostable material for no charge. Special activities include compost programs, workshops, tours and more. Check website for locations and times. Awareness Week held May 8–13. www.accgov.com/icaw

LATINX FAMILIES PROJECT (UGA)

A UGA research lab is currently seeking Latinx families to participate in a study about how children (ages 3–4) cope with stress and school-readiness. Families complete three visits and can earn up to $360 for participating. No ID required. 706-363-0005

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

RABBIT HOLE EVENTS (Rabbit Hole Studios) Weekly events include Open Mic (Tuesdays, 7–11 p.m.), Acoustic Song Circle (Thursdays, 7–11 p.m.), Seventh Generation Native American Church services and community potlucks (Sundays, 11 a.m.) and Drumming and Song Circle (Sundays, 3–5 p.m.). Weekly Sunday Funday Markets held 1–5 p.m. Wednesday Yoga (5 p.m.) is followed by Meditation and Integration (6 p.m.). Events are free or donation based. www.rabbithole studios.org/calendar

SUMMER JOBS (Athens, GA) ACC Leisure Services will hire over 100 summer positions including camp counselors, lifeguards and more. Hourly pay ranges $15.60–17. Now accepting applications. www. accgov.com/jobs

WINTERVILLE SCHOOL CLASS(ES)

REUNION (Winterville First Baptist Church) People with any connect to the Winterville School, which had its last graduating class in 1956, are invited to a reunion held June 10 at 10:30 a.m. RSVP by June 2. 706-612-6934

WORK.SHOP (160 Winston Dr.) Open rehearsal and performance space for theater, comedy, dance, classes and events. $10/hour. lisayaconelli@gmail.com f

Yonder Mountain String Band

“More

May

a pioneering jam band/bluegrass act

REAL ESTATE HOUSES FOR RENT

2BR/1BA, 900 sq. ft. W/D, lawn care. $1700/month. 285 Savannah Ave. Athens, GA 30601. Call for more information: 678-698-7613

House, 3BR/2BA in Normaltown. Central air. Apartment, 2BR/1BA. Furnished. Washer/dryer. Wi-Fi. No smokers, pets. Calls only! 706-372-1505

FOR SALE YARD SALES

Multi-family yard sale in Springbrook neighborhood/Winterville. Great deals on heirloom collectibles, furniture, housewares, brand-new carpeting, books, toys, games and more! Sat. 5/6, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

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.

VOICE LESSONS : Specializing in older (50+) beginners and intermediates. Gift certificates available. Contact stacie.court@ gmail.com or 706-424-9516.

MUSIC SERVICES

Instant cash is now being paid for good vinyl records & CDs in fine condition. Wuxtry Records, at corner of Clayton & College Dwntn. 706-369-9428.

Flagpole ♥s our advertisers.

SERVICES

HOME AND GARDEN

Plumber Pro Service & Drain. Upfront pricing. Free estimates. $30 Flagpole discount. Call 706-769-7761. Same-day service available. www.plumberproservice. com

UNITY COOPERATIVE

LABOR PARTNERS: Lawn care, debris removal, gutter cleaning, painting/ carpentry, construction clean-up, furniture moving. Under The Economic Justice Coalition. Insured and bonded. Call: 706-549-1142

Woman-Run Gardening Services: We offer raised bed building, garden maintenance, invasive plant removal, personalized native & edible gardens for your home or business. Call/Text: 706-395-5321

Need old newspapers for your garden? An art project? Well, we have plenty here at Flagpole! Call ahead and we’ll have them ready for you. Please leave current issues on stands. 706-549-0301

JOBS FULL-TIME

Come work for a well-established catering company. Openings for serving staff and bartenders. Eat well, work hard and have fun. You determine the hours you’d like to work. Apply online: www.trumps catering.com/work-with-us

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

OPPORTUNITIES

Do you like driving, know your way around town and need some extra cash? Flagpole needs reliable fill-in drivers for when our regular drivers are out! Email front desk@flagpole.com to be included in emails about future Distribution opportunities. Own car, ability to follow instructions, attention to detail and Tuesday availability required! Previous delivery experience preferred. No calls or walk-ins!

PART-TIME

Join a diverse, inclusive workplace, and get paid to type! 16–40 hours M–F. NEVER be called in for a shift you didn’t sign up for. Must type 65+ wpm, wear mask, show proof of vaccination. Work independently. No customer interaction. Starts at $13 with automatic increases. www.ctscribes. com

NOTICES

MESSAGES

All Georgians ages 6 months & up are eligible for COVID vaccines, and ages 5+ are eligible for boosters! Call 706-3400996 or visit www.public healthathens.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 near Aldi and Publix.) Pre-registration is highly encouraged! Visit www. publichealthathens.com for more information.

Get Flagpole delivered straight to your mailbox! It can be for you or a pal who just moved out of town. $55 for six months or $100 for one year . Call 706-5490301 or email frontdesk@ flagpole.com.

The Weekly Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

grub notes Slater’s Steakhouse

SUITABLY INDULGENT MEAT LOVER’S HAVEN

By Hillary Brown food@flagpole.com

SLATER’S STEAKHOUSE (1653 S. Lumpkin St., 706-395-6082, slatersathens. com): Midway through my second meal at Slater’s, it occurred to me that the extreme expensiveness of the restaurant—much remarked upon by anyone who’s looked at its menu—is not a bug so much as it is a feature for some audiences. Steakhouses, especially the fancy kind, partially exist as a venue in which to spend money conspicuously. The environment allows for one-up-manship: Who can order the most expensive cut of meat? Eat it the rarest? Select the most outrageously priced bottle of wine? Drink the most cocktails? For salespeople, they allow one to impress one’s

RIP Bonita’s Hot Girl Summers

ADVICE FOR ATHENS’ LOOSE AND LOVELORN

By Bonita Applebum advice@flagpole.com

winner, mixed strong enough and simple enough to be just right.

clients with the company credit card. For some folks on dates, the check can serve as a marker of what one is willing to do, a love language in which one can express fluency. I don’t fall into any of those categories, and you may not either. And yet! Slater’s is Athens expensive, but it is not Atlanta steakhouse expensive. A New York strip is $42, whereas it’ll cost you $58 at Bones in Buckhead, the gold standard in the area and a place that has a dress code banning flip flops, sweats and hats.

Slater’s will treat you well. Reservations are an option but generally don’t seem required, with the exception of home game weekends, I’d guess. The couple who run it—Jerry and Krista Slater, of The Expat, The Lark wine shop and a couple other forthcoming places—made their reputation in cocktails, and the ones at Slater’s are very classic and very nice. There are no obscure ingredients, just good stuff straightforwardly and well mixed, presented in beautiful glassware. The martini comes a few different ways (gin, vodka, dirty, not so dirty, onion, olive), but none that are ridiculous. It appears in a little glass vial nestled in a bed of ice, with extra left over to refill your glass. The presentation is both slightly silly and “ooh, fancy” in a nice way at the same time. The daiquiri, to me, is the real

How are the steaks? Well, they’re pretty good. You may be able to make a better, less pricey one at home that is more to your liking. As established, that is not why you go to a restaurant like this. Sauces are an extra $6 and aren’t needed. In fact, they muddy the taste of a nice piece of meat. Between a plain ribeye and a filet topped with Bearnaise sauce, the ribeye wins every time. Looking for something less showy and a bit more of a bargain? The pork chop is $27 and tender without dancing on the edge of food safety. The lamb chops don’t need their jalapeno mint chutney, which is a bit finely chopped for something bearing that name, but it’s surprisingly nice, and the chops themselves are also in the Goldilocks region of just right in terms of cooking: pretty rare, with a lovely sear on the edges that caramelizes the fat. It should go without saying, but Slater’s is not hugely vegetarian friendly, although it does have a pasta entree sans meat. Sides are family style, which means not everyone at the table needs one, and they are sized for sharing. I tend to prefer my mashed potatoes with some texture because that’s how my mom made them, but the silky garlic ones at Slater’s are very good. The creamed spinach is good, but not exciting. The Brussels sprouts with Benton’s bacon are too salty. The mushrooms with bone marrow butter aren’t all that. Better, instead, if you want some marrow, to order the “bone marrow canoe” in the starters: a big old bone whacked in half and served with buttery, shatteringly crisp little crostini and a spoon to scoop and smear. Also in that section is an excellent fritto misto that a) will remind you sweetly of the 1990s, when fried calamari was everywhere on menus, and b) includes sharp pickled peppers and thin fried slices of lemon that are real highlights. It’s a fun dish that doesn’t carry huge expectations with it, and may succeed as a result.

The space, which I will forever think of as the former Five and Ten, even though other restaurants have come and gone, is well appointed but Athens appropriate, with decent art, and servers who know how to read a table and attend or disappear. Is there anything surprising? Not really. Shrimp cocktail, wedge salads, French onion soup—again, it comes with the territory. It’s focused on timelessness and on executing standards well, and it mostly does. If you’re looking for youthful exuberance and high-wire experimentation, there are other restaurants for that. Slater’s is open 5–9 p.m. Sunday (sometimes as early as 3 p.m. on Sundays, when it also does a burger), Wednesday and Thursday, 5–10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and closes Monday and Tuesday. f

Y’all, I went running yesterday and did not wear the proper undergarments, and also the inner thighs of my tights ripped as soon as I put them on in a tiny, waytoo-hot restroom at my day job. So today I have several violent chafes in the worst possible areas. I took a campus bus to a stop three blocks away because my coochie cannot abide this, not to mention the after effects on my joints. RIP to my lower body after years of ignoring the effects of Walk It Out competitions and circle pits. I used to have certified Megan Knees back in the day, but nowadays I get backaches that have made me call out of work. And y’all want me to go barhopping?!

Sorry y’all, but it’s a wrap on Hot Girl Summers for yours truly. I just can’t do it the way I used to, and honestly, do I want to? I’m not sure I want to feel crushed by large crowds at street festivals, and I certainly don’t want to deal with the heat rashes. I’m also in the very preliminary stages of home buying, and all those bourbon and gingers add up. I need a full set of tires soon, anyway, and no one else is going to buy them for me. And the older I get, the less I can ignore the lasting effects that a wild night out has on my body. My hangovers last for entire days now that I’m in my forties,

community and the creation of art. My first year at the Rumpus is one for the books because I was told about it on a night out at Go Bar, or some other long-gone haven for freaks, but no one told me it was an event for the entire town. I just assumed it was some rogue parade by local weirdos, and so I over-cinched myself into a cheap corset and smeared fake blood down my thighs and all over my hands. I was Sexy Menstruation!

How novel! But then I got downtown only to be surrounded by families dressed as the Flintstones or the Belchers, so I tucked myself as far away from the street as possible, then immediately ran home and changed once the parade was over. Nowadays I don’t have the energy for elaborate costumes, so I just do corpse paint and call it a day. Reader, please get into some ho shit for me this summer, because I am no longer for the streets. I’m going on vacation with childhood friends next week, and I am currently paralyzed by the pressure of choosing only two books to bring along with me. What if I bring Dirk Gently and Severance but when I get there I want to read Heir to the Empire? These are the kinds of problems I want in my life, if wanting problems was

and there is nothing darker than the serotonin-starved morning after a com pletely different type of partying. There are no gains associated with any of this pain for me, not anymore.

None of this is to say that I don’t still enjoy drinking or dancing or casual sex or socializing. I had some of the best fun of my life at last year’s Wild Rumpus, and I firmly believe that’s because I watched it from The National bar with my sibling while sharing some small plates. I got to see all the costumes and gags that people had created for no reason other than the delight of the

summer hits are things like less traffic, more Kroger, and the ability to try certain restaurants that stay packed out during the school year. Yeah, I’m that age now, but I love it. I think that Megan Knees Bonita would love me, too. She’d be happy to see me saving money and still tight with my high school crew, and she’d be mind-blown by the concept of choosing peace and calm. f

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

“ I used to have certified Megan Knees back in the day, but nowadays I get backaches that have made me call out of work.