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Join us for an evening with this Athens author as he discusses his latest book.

Leitch is a contributing editor at New York magazine and the founder of the late sports website Deadspin. He also writes regularly for the New York Times, Washington Post, NBC News, Medium, and MLB.com. He lives in Athens with his wife and two sons.

“Leitch’s panoramic narrative hopscotches back and forth between the viewpoints of his characters as they go about their daily routines, oblivious to their impending fates. Leitch brings a Chekhovian economy to the storytelling — but his emphasis is on the humanity of all involved. It’s an all-too-plausible slice of life.“ PUBLISHERS

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CONTRIBUTORS Brian PJ Cronin, Chris Dowd, Gordon Lamb, Rebecca McCarthy

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story on p. 7) NEWS:

COVER PHOTOGRAPH of Nuclear Tourism by Mason Pearson (see

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With Gregory Frederick behind the camera, Athens GA Live Music documents artists gracing stages across the Classic City. Don’t miss footage from the recent performances by Chainhead, lighthearted, Way Past Cool, Bea Porges, Tattoo Logic and more.

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The UGA Presents season will conclude with a performance by the genre-blending bluegrass group Yonder Mountain String Band on May 13 at Hodgson Concert Hall. For more information, visit pac.uga.edu.

Evelia

Sticker Shock

PROPERTY VALUES—AND TAXES—ARE WAY UP, AND MORE LOCAL

By Blake Aued, Chris Dowd and Rebecca McCarthy news@flagpole.com

Athens homeowners would see a considerable bump on their property tax bills if the commission approves Mayor Kelly Girtz’s proposed fiscal 2024 budget as-is.

The tax rate would remain the same at 13.1 mills ($13.10 per $1,000 of assessed value), but with the tax digest increasing by 15% due to new development and rising property values, many if not most property owners would likely see a higher tax bill this fall. Taxes would rise $166 on an owner-occupied home assessed at $300,000—close to the median home price in Athens. That does not include the separate school tax, which Clarke County School District officials have proposed raising from 18.8 mills to the legal maximum of 20.

At $185 million, the county operating budget would be $18 million higher than last year. The total budget—including capital costs, funding for outside agencies and enterprise funds, which pay for themselves through fees—would total $336 million, up $47 million from the current year.

New spending Girtz proposed includes $2.1 million for medical services at the county jail; $2.5 million for ACC employees’ health insurance and retirement benefits; $2.9 million in raises for ACC employees; $300,000 to fill a backlog of requests for neighborhood traffic management; $200,000 to hire three new firefighters/ emergency medical technicians to staff ladder trucks; $148,000 to hire three EMS captains mid-year; $100,000 for software allowing police to solve crimes by analyzing video; $150,000 for a community energy fund; $75,000 to replace ACC’s gas-powered leaf blowers with battery-powered; $120,000 to fund downtown events; $570,000 for competitive grants for community partner agencies; $200,000 to pave unpaved roads and $200,000 for safer railroad crossings.

Compared to other cities, the total property tax rate in Athens is higher than Watkinsville but lower than Jefferson, Augusta, Columbus and Macon, according to the ACC Finance Department.

Once the budget is presented, commissioners will have a chance to make changes before approving it. ACC will have three state-mandated public hearings on the property tax rate: 5:30 p.m. May 11 at the Dougherty Street government building, 6 p.m. May 16 at City Hall and 6 p.m. June 6 at the City Hall, though by the last date the budget is likely to be all but settled. [Blake Aued]

Eviction Prevention Program

Restarted

Renters in Athens who fall behind on payments and become at risk of eviction might be getting some help again soon.

The Athens-Clarke County Commission voted to restart an eviction prevention program that stalled out last year. Family Promise of Athens, working in partnership with The Ark, will revive the program and attempt to make some improvements on it.

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They’ll receive $900,000 from the federal American Rescue Plan that the commission allocated to eviction prevention in 2021 but has been left unspent.

Between them, Family Promise and The Ark have over 38 years of experience running local rental assistance programs. They also have a history of contract compliance working with ACC’s Housing and Community Development Department, unlike the program’s previous contractor, Athenian First Development Corporation. ACC officials shut down the program in October due to AFDC’s financial reporting irregularities. Despite that, the first iteration of this program helped 425 households avoid eviction at a cost of $1.4 million, or $3,300 per eviction prevented.

Board of Education member Tim Denson, a strong advocate for the program when he was a county commissioner, went to the podium at City Hall last Tuesday night to make the fiscal case for eviction prevention. Denson said that he calculated that the average cost to the public for an eviction in Georgia is $9,669, using a University of Arizona formula. This figure includes the cost of providing emergency shelter, medical care and child welfare costs that could be avoided if a family were able to stay in their home.

“I hope that you all vote to implement this program and keep hundreds of families in their homes instead of sleeping on the streets, in tents, in cars and in shelters,” Denson told the commission. “The evidence shows that eviction prevention better sustains the physical, mental and financial health of individuals facing eviction, and the entire Athens community.”

After public comment concluded, Commissioner Jesse Houle moved to restart the eviction prevention program with Family Promise and The Ark as the new providers.

“We had to cut the program off because of issues with the vendor, but the program itself had proved to be very successful,” Houle said. “There’s a strong economic argument for this. It’s much cheaper to keep people in their homes than it is to try and re-house them. I also think there’s a strong moral imperative for us to do what we can for people who are in a precarious situation.”

Commissioner Mike Hamby pointed out the improvements Family Promise and The Ark intend to implement. For example, the new version will serve families at risk of eviction, in addition to families already in eviction proceedings. They’ll also provide wrap-around services, such as helping to look for better-paying work and different housing if appropriate.

The commission voted 9-1 last Tuesday to restart the eviction prevention program. Commissioner Ovita Thornton was the lone vote against it, despite voting for it the first time, when AFDC was the beneficiary.

“We forget too fast that we had three or four groups when we used CARES money to help people with eviction and food. Instead of building on groups that have worked through some challenges, we come up with

a whole new program,” Thornton said. “We as a government should build on what’s working, tweak it and fix it. No, I’m not going to vote for this.”

Thornton appeared to be referencing the commission’s vote in 2020 to distribute federal CARES Act funding to various community nonprofits for food aid, homeless services and other assistance. The Ark was one of those nonprofits.

This program will serve at least 200 Athens households, with a preference for those under 50% of the area median income.

LINNENTOWN LANE: The commission took a preliminary vote accepting a recommendation from the Athens Justice and Memory Project to rename the portion of South Finley Street between Cloverhurst Avenue and Baxter Street “Linnentown Lane.” This stretch of road lies in between Russell and Creswell halls, two University of Georgia dormitories built on the site of the former Linnentown neighborhood during the urban renewal period of the 1960s.

This neighborhood was condemned by the City of Athens and razed by UGA to provide space for the dormitories, an act the local government has called “institutionalized white racism and terrorism.” The Athens Justice and Memory Project, led by former residents of Linnentown, is asking for this portion of Finley Street to be renamed so their neighborhood, and the injustice they endured, is remembered by the Athens and UGA communities. UGA has resisted those efforts.

TRAFFIC CALMING: The commission is reviewing ACC policies on which neighborhoods qualify for traffic-calming measures to slow down speeding drivers who make it

dangerous to walk. Right now, 65% of residents on a particular street need to agree before devices like speed tables or traffic circles will be installed. It works well for highly engaged neighborhoods, but a 65% response rate is a high bar to clear.

As the commission was about to authorize roughly $300,000 for traffic calming on about 10 streets, Houle spoke up for some neighborhoods that have yet to reach consensus, but who desperately need traffic management as indicated by crash data. Houle proposed using cheaper, temporary speed tables on streets like Westchester Drive and on Sunny Hills Drive for the time being, until they are either able to reach consensus or the policy requiring them to do so is changed. The rest of the commission agreed, voting unanimously in favor of the idea. Thornton in particular spoke up in favor of changing the policy.

“I’m real concerned about the process that keeps leaving out so many communities because they don’t send back a postcard or don’t vote or whatever,” Thornton said.

Mayor Kelly Girtz agreed to send this policy to a committee for further work and discussion. [Chris Dowd]

Charter School Proposed

A Charlotte nonprofit is looking to start a charter school in Athens, run semi-independently from the rest of the Clarke County School District but funded with local tax dollars.

The Movement Foundation, backed by Movement Mortgage, has committed to spend $360 million to open 100 charter schools nationwide in the next 10 years. The foundation has built four in North Carolina so far and is looking to expand to Athens, Atlanta and Charleston, according to CCSD Director of Innovation Strategy and Governance James Barlament.

Only one of those schools is old enough for academic data to be available, and its track record is mixed. The school had lower levels of achievement than CharlotteMecklenburg or North Carolina schools as a whole, although achievement was higher among African-American students. It spends less money on books than other

schools, and no arts education is offered at all, Barlament said during a presentation at the school board’s May 4 meeting.

Movement Mortgage would build or renovate a space for the school, then lease the space to the school, leading board of education member Patricia Yager to wonder whether the company would profit at taxpayers’ expense. “$1.2 million is coming from our district and going to lease a school somebody else owns,” Yager said.

chapter of Phi Kappa Tau to buy and convert The Red & Black’s building on Baxter Street into a residence for its members.

The student newspaper’s building is perched at the top of Baxter Hill. It backs up to the Henderson Avenue Historic District, made up of 16 homes dating from the late 1800s, with Pope Street on the east side and Milledge Avenue to the west.

Despite reassurances from Phi Kappa Tau alum Bill Crane, current fraternity members and an ACC police officer that the fraternity would be respectful of its neighbors, homeowners spoke against the zoning change, saying their street is already under siege from existing fraternities and sororities on Milledge Avenue. They believe adding another fraternity to the mix would be “a nail in the coffin” that would make living there even more difficult, if not impossible.

MUSIC | WED, MAY 10 Esther Rose, Clover County

Flicker Theatre & Bar • 5 p.m. • $10

Singer-songwriter and lyricist Esther Rose honed her craft in the eclectic and energetic music scene of New Orleans, releasing three albums of deeply personal music rooted in a love of traditional country. Rose’s fourth album, Safe To Run, is perhaps her most introspective work, an 11-song collection of modern balladry. The title track is a slow burning, but somehow catchy, melancholic road song. “Chet Baker” is charmingly idiosyncratic in its lyricism, hinting at a meaning below the surface. Safe To Run was released Apr. 21 via New West Records. In her first-ever show in Athens, Rose will play an early set with Athens’ very own Clover County. [Patrick Barry]

ART | THU, MAY 11 Joseph Leone Artist Reception

Ciné • 6–8 p.m. • FREE!

The $1.2 million figure is what Movement is asking CCSD to divert from other local public schools annually. The charter school would also receive $400,000 in federal funding and $3 million in state funding each year. Movement is asking for full control over the school’s budget.

If approved by the BOE, the school board would have some oversight over the charter school, but it would also be under the purview of executives in Charlotte and a separate board. Five members have already committed to serve on that board, Barlament said, and none live in Athens.

The BOE has four options, Barlament said: It can reject the application outright, although there doesn’t seem to be a legal reason to do so, he said. It can accept the application, or it can ask for revisions or clarifications. The deadline to make a decision is June 15, and a vote is currently scheduled for June 1. Even if the BOE rejects the application, Movement could apply to the Georgia Charter School Commission, a workaround set up by the state legislature to approve charter schools that local systems reject. “At the end of the day, they could still establish a charter school in Clarke County,” Barlament said. “The options are, they could be under the purview of you, the [Clarke County] board of education, or under the purview of the state board of education.”

If approved, the elementary school would open in 2024 with 104 kindergarteners and 30 third-graders, then gradually add grades, eventually reaching more than 600 students. Those students could live anywhere in the county, and they would be selected by lottery if there are more applicants than slots. [BA]

Neighbors Oppose Baxter Frat House

The Athens-Clarke County Planning Commission voted 4-3 May 4 to recommend denying an application for the UGA

“It is not fraternities that make Athens an attractive place to live,” said George Daly, a lawyer whose backyard lies yards from the building.

Rhonda Packer told the planning commission that her husband, Ken, depends on voice commands to Alexa for a semblance of a normal life since a stroke disabled him nine years ago. She worried that noise from the fraternity would prevent the device from hearing her husband, whose voice is compromised.

Retired UGA professor Gary Bertsch said there are codes to protect neighborhoods the city doesn’t enforce, adding, “The city is failing us, time and again.”

In addition to the noise of parties and games, Peggy Galis said, residents cope daily with the rattle of delivery trucks, the sounds of air brakes and the banging of delivery doors and ramps. Most everyone on the street has positioned bedrooms as far as possible from the noise of the fraternities.

Planning commissioner Sarah Gehring worried that if Phi Kappa Tau’s request were denied, the fraternity would locate near less affluent renters who wouldn’t be able to organize or articulate their concerns. Another option could be River Road on East Campus, where a number of fraternities built new houses when UGA kicked them off Lumpkin Street 15 years ago.

Along with Joey Tucker and Kristen Morales, Gehring voted to recommend the request be granted, but Lucy Rowland, Katie Goodrum, Alice Kinman and Matthew Hall did not. The request now goes to the mayor and commission, who have the final say.

Previously, Phi Kappa Tau was located in a former sports bar at West Broad and Finley streets, which it sold to an apartment developer. A request to temporarily move into an office building on West Hancock Avenue last year was denied.

It’s unclear why The Red & Black is selling its building or where it plans to relocate. Calls and emails to the newspaper last week went unanswered. [Rebecca McCarthy] f

As part of an exhibition on view through June 25, ATHICA@Ciné will hold an artist reception for its featured artist, Joseph Leone. Leone, a painter and musician, mixes oil on canvas to create abstract, organic scenes informed by his education in horticulture. “Through my work, I hope to communicate a sense of tranquility, joy and wonder that transcends the obvious,” says Leone. The exhibit, entitled “Inner Forms,” features some of Leone’s most organic compositions, with hazy dreamscapes of half-remembered animal silhouettes or plant matter just barely peeking into perception, before disappearing once again. “The result that I strive for is to create something intriguing to examine on every inch of the canvas,” says Leone. “This richness of detail allows the paintings to continue to reveal themselves over time.” [PB]

ART | FRI, MAY 12

Susie Criswell Art Opening

tiny ATH gallery • 5–8 p.m. • Donations accepted

Local artist Susie Criswell will celebrate her new collection of paintings, “Walking Through A Radiant World,” with an opening reception. Criswell’s work is natural and nostalgic, using large blocks of color to create sweeping, dreamy landscapes. Her work is inspired by her travels across the United States and abroad, pulling from experiences in nature to create her wonderful acrylic and watercolor pieces. “I enjoy using bright colors and a sense of pattern in both the shapes and the lines I see in gardens, forests and from my imagination,” Criswell says. “The paintings that include people send a message that reading can take you anywhere, just as a painting can trans -

port you to different places in the natural world, both real and imaginary.” A closing event will be held in conjunction with Third Thursday with live music by John Kiran Fernandes on May 18 from 6-9 p.m. [PB]

EVENT | SAT, MAY 13

Winterville Marigold Festival

Pittard Park • 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m. • FREE!

Winterville is a vibrant little town just outside of Athens that, among many other events, hosts an annual Marigold Festival, for which the town is known. The all-day, family-friendly music and arts festival features a wonderful music lineup, a morning parade and an auto show featuring classic and vintage cars. The musical lineup presents a survey of local music, with performances by Kimberly Morgan York, Claire Campbell, The Welfare Liners, Wonderland Rangers and Cicada Rhythm, just to name a few. The Marigold Festival has been a well-loved tradition held since 1971, with only a few years hiatus. For more information, see the Winterville Marigold Festival insert. [PB]

EVENT | SAT, MAY 13

HauntFest Mayhem

Rabbit Hole Studios • 5 p.m.–12 a.m. • $10 (adv.), $15

Yes, it’s true: Athens will have a horror-themed event in the middle of May.

Supported by an award from the UGA Idea Accelerator Program, the festival is organized by UGA student Roseann Harpold, the founder of Harpold Manor, a business that seeks to host haunt events year round, not only in October. So far, a large list of vendors have signed up to peddle their wares, ranging from artwork, antique prosthetics, taxidermy and wet specimens. Activities include snake encounters with the Georgia Reptile Society, black cat meet-and-greets with the Circle of Friends Animal Society, axe-throwing with Lumberjaxe, fire juggling by the UGA Juggling Club, s’mores, raffles and games. There will be scares, of course, as well as performances and live music by Recess Party, Lady Eleven, Schmooze, Tattoo Logic, and Cam and His Dam Jam Band. [PB] f

Susie Criswell

“ It is not fraternities that make Athens an attractive place to live.

event calendar

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-toRecycle-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: Athens Fibercraft Guild (Lyndon House Arts Center) Bring things you want cleared out of your studio, and take home the items that others want to give away. 12:30–2:30 p.m. FREE! www.athensfiber.org

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 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.georgia museum.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

EVENTS: 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

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

Thursday 11

ART: Artist Reception (Ciné) Athens-based artist and musician Joseph Leone’s oil paintings will be displayed in the exhibition “Inner Forms.” 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. athica.org

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

CLASSES: Holy Crab (Cake) (Athens Cooks) Chef Hunter White will teach attendees how to make decadent crab cakes with a red pepper aioli. Try cold corn soup and wine/ beer pairings. Registration required. 6 p.m. $100. www.athenscooks. com

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.diamondhill farmathens.com

EVENTS: Welcome to the Twilight H2zOne (J.G. Beacham Drinking Water Treatment Plant) Travel through the mystifying twists and turns your water takes before entering homes. Light refreshments will be served. 6 p.m. FREE! www. accgov.com

EVENTS: Coffee Tasting (Jittery Joe’s Roaster Tasting Room) Join the Boulevard Brass Band to taste an experimental coffee rolled around in a whiskey barrel. 6–7:30 p.m. FREE! calclements@gmail. com

EVENTS: Nuclear Tourism Listening Party (Flicker Theatre & Bar)

Celebrate Nuclear Tourism’s self-ti-

tled album release with physical copies and new merch for sale plus entertaining antics. 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com

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

GAMES: Twilight Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Test your Twilight series trivia knowledge. Best costume wins a prize, and the Square One food truck will be on site. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing. com

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

will be on view. 5–8 p.m. FREE! tinyathgallery.com

COMEDY: Hendershot’s Comedy (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a lineup featuring comics from Athens and Atlanta as well as newcomers. 8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

EVENTS: Community Yard Sale (YWCO) All proceeds from this sale benefit the YWCO. May 12, 12–5 p.m. May 13, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 706354-7880

EVENTS: Southern Star’s 7th Birthday Sale (Southern Star Studio) Celebrate with live music, refreshments, drinks, raffles and more. May 12, 5–9 p.m. May 13, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.southernstarstudioathens.com

EVENTS: Now That’s What I Call Music (Work.Shop) Matt House, Kelly Petronis, and musicians Patrick Barry and Names Change will

pare five tasting courses, each with a different wine pairing. Registration required. 6:30 p.m. $200. www. athenscooks.com

EVENTS: Winterville Marigold Festival (Pittard Park) During this family-friendly festival, there will be a 10K, parade, vendors, kids activities and live music. 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. FREE! www.marigoldfestival. com

EVENTS: Friends of the Madison County Library Yard Sale (Madison County Library) This yard sale will feature donated items from the community, including kitchen items, crafting supplies, toys, books, games and clothing. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Cash only. www. athenslibrary.org/madison

EVENTS: Miles for Moms 5K (Milledge Avenue Baptist Church) The East Georgia Cancer Coalition presents its 10th annual run/walk that aims to bring recognition to mothers that have faced or are currently facing cancer. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. $20. www.milesformoms5k. org

EVENTS: Community Yard Sale (YWCO) All proceeds from this sale benefit the YWCO. May 12, 12–5 p.m. May 13, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 706354-7880

EVENTS: Bears’ Birthday Party (Bear Hollow Zoo at Memorial Park) Resident bears Athena, DJ and Yonah will unwrap their presents and enjoy their cake while attendees enjoy crafts and animal encounters. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.accgov. com/bearhollow

EVENTS: Southern Star’s 7th Birthday Sale (Southern Star Studio) Celebrate with live music, refreshments, drinks, raffles and more. May 12, 5–9 p.m. May 13, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. FREE! www.southernstarstudioathens.com

EVENTS: Really, Really Free Market (Reese and Pope Park) Just like a yard sale, but everything is free. Bring what you can, take what you need. Second Saturday of every month. 12–1:30 p.m. reallyreally freemarketathens@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/RRFMAthens

and maintenance with a chance to win prizes. Call to register. 10 a.m. FREE! 762-400-8106, keith.sims@ accgov.com

KIDSTUFF: Family Day: The Five Senses (Georgia Museum of Art) This special NEA Big Readsponsored program features games, art and a free picture book. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! www.georgia museum.org

KIDSTUFF: Snake Day (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Learn about snakes and engage in animal interactions, crafts and games. 12–4 p.m. $5. www.accgov.com/myrec

PERFORMANCE: Dawn of a Dynasty (40 Watt Club) Classic City Wrestling presents a night of high flying, power slamming independent wrestling, with a side of rock and roll. Ages 18 & up. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10–25. www.40watt.com

PERFORMANCE: Too Wonderful for Anybody (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) Poet Laureate Jeff Fallis will perform a staged reading of Athens playwright Alan Flurry’s new play about climate crisis. 8 p.m. FREE! tatiana.veneruso@accgov.com

Sunday 14

ART: Drawing in the Galleries (Georgia Museum of Art) This workshop is led by a teaching artist and provides drawing instruction, art supplies and space to spread out. Registration required. 2–4 p.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu

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: 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

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

LECTURES & LIT: Athens Science Café (Foxglove Plantbar) This month Jennifer Grenz will present “Braiding, Weaving, Two-eyed Seeing” about bringing knowledge systems and worldviews together. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenssciencecafe. wordpress.com

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

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

Friday 12

ART: Opening Reception (tiny ATH gallery) Susie Criswell’s exhibition “Walking Through a Radiant World” featuring acrylic paintings of nature

listen to and talk about the music that made them. 8 p.m. $5. www. flyingsquidcomedy.com

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.athens library.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Edible Compost (ACC Library) Learn a quick lesson on composting and create a customized snack mix. 3–5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

Saturday 13

CLASSES: Lines and Wines (Tapped Athens Wine Market) Attendees will learn how to use and practice various calligraphy tools and methods while enjoying a glass of wine. 12–1:30 p.m. $25. www. kaartist.com

CLASSES: Chef’s Table (Athens Cooks) Chef Hunter White will pre-

EVENTS: Kendra Scott Give Back Party (Kendra Scott) Learn more about The DL Handy Foundation and mental health with in-store purchases benefitting 20% to the organization. 2–4 p.m. www. dlhandyfoundation.org

EVENTS: Mutual Aid Athens’ Spring Fundraiser (Athentic Brewing Co.) Enjoy art, community building, local music and more while supporting those in the community who need it the most. 4–10 p.m. $5–10 (suggested donation). www.instagram.com/ mutualaidathens

EVENTS: HauntFest Mayhem (Rabbit Hole Studios) UGA student Roseann Harpold presents an early taste of the haunts, horror and festivities of Halloween. There will be live music, vendors, tarot card readings, ax throwing and more. 5 p.m. $10–15. www.mrh80504. wixsite.com/haunt-fest

GAMES: Day of Board Game

Demonstrations (Tyche’s Games) Bring your pals and try some new games. 12 p.m. FREE! www.tyches games.com

KIDSTUFF: Bike Safety Rodeo (B&B Theatres) Young bike riders will learn the basics of bike safety

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

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

Monday 15

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: Georgia Climate Conference (UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel) The conference aims to support and accelerate Georgia’s efforts to minimize the risks and maximize the opportunities associated with climate change. May 15–17, 8 a.m.–9 p.m. $350.

ROCKSTAR SPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Classic City Wrestling returns to the 40 Watt Club on Saturday, May 13 for a night of wrestling antics in the ring.

www.2023georgiaclimateconference.org

FILM: CODA (ACC Library) The Academy Award-winning film follows Ruby, the only hearing person in her deaf family, who finds herself torn between pursuing her passions and saving the family business. 5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

FILM: Juvenile Delinquents Double Feature (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Back-to-back screenings of 1979’s Over The Edge (7 p.m.) and 1985’s Tuff Turf (9 p.m.). FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.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

Tuesday 16

ART: Creative Aging Art Workshop (Georgia Museum of Art) Join teaching artist Toni Carlucci to discuss art in the galleries and to make art in the studio classroom. All skill levels welcome. Ages 55 & up. Registration required. 10 a.m. FREE! gmoa-tours@uga.edu

COMEDY: Open Toad Comedy Night (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Comedy performed by a mix of newcomers and local favorites from Athens and Atlanta. 9 p.m. (doors). $7. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

EVENTS: Georgia Climate Conference (UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel) The conference aims to support and accelerate Georgia’s efforts to minimize the risks and maximize the opportunities associated with climate change. May 15–17, 8 a.m.–9 p.m. $350. www.2023georgiaclimateconference.org

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: Teen Media Club (Lyndon House Arts Center) Celebrate the work of young artists at this inaugural film screening. 6 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/Lyndon HouseArts

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

LECTURES & LIT: Café au Libris (ACC Library) Local author Will Leitch will discuss his new novel, The Time Has Come. 7 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

MEETINGS: Athens Rock and Gem Club (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) Jim Maudsley will lead the presentation “Lithic Materials Used By Native Americans In The

Southeast.” 7:30 p.m. FREE! www. athensrockandgemclub.org

PERFORMANCE: Too Wonderful for Anybody (UGA Fine Arts Theatre) Poet Laureate Jeff Fallis will perform a staged reading of Athens playwright Alan Flurry’s new play about climate crisis. 8 p.m. FREE! tatiana.veneruso@accgov.com

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

Wednesday 17

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.georgia museum.org

CLASSES: Financial Management Workshop (Online) Hosted by Athens Land Trust, this workshop focuses on fair housing. Registration required for Zoom link. 5–6:30 p.m. FREE! housingcounseling@ athenslandtrust.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: Georgia Climate Conference (UGA Center for Continuing Education & Hotel) The conference aims to support and accelerate Georgia’s efforts to minimize the risks and maximize the opportunities associated with climate change. May 15–17, 8 a.m.–9 p.m. $350. www.2023georgiaclimateconference.org

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

EVENTS: Arts and Drafts (Southern Brewing Co.) Tap into your creative side and socialize with others. All skill levels welcome. Ages 18 & up. 6:30–8 p.m. $25. www.kaartist.com

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: Talking About Books (ACC Library) Explore the many themes of the celebrated book of poems Deaf Republic, facilitated by Alys Wilman. 10:30–11:30 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

MEETINGS: Athens Reparations

Action (Athentic Brewing Co.)

Learn about Athens Reparations Action’s mission to promote recognition of the financial impact of urban renewal and other racist policies on members of the Black community in Athens. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.athenticbrewing.com f

Nuclear Tourism

LANDING ITS SELF-TITLED SOPHOMORE RELEASE

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

Crowded around a coffee shop table holding tiny saucers sipping espresso from even tinier cups might not be how you’d picture the bandmates of Nuclear Tourism, especially if you’ve been to one of their shows, but Athens’ beloved skate punks are dependably full of surprises. While sitting down with them to discuss Nuclear Tourism’s success, the playful energy of camaraderie was contagious.

The youthful band shares a closeness on and off stage that reflects nearly a decade of friendship and playing music together. Parker Allen (singer, lead guitar), Brennan Murphy (drums), and twin brothers Nate and Graham Beveridge (bass and rhythm guitar respectively) first met at Nuçi’s Space’s Camp Amped program, where they were placed into their first band together. “Unfortunately, it stuck,” says Allen.

However, at that time having a band was more so an accessory to what truly bonded the four: a mutual love for skateboarding. Allen and Murphy explain that the Athens skate community is so small that it’s very tightly knit and welcoming. After all, there are only two places to skateboard, so you’re likely to always see a familiar face.

As the group approached high school graduation and started taking the band side of things a little more seriously, skateboarding maintained an integral role in the dynamic.

“Our first [tour] was kind of geared towards skateboarding. It was super tight. We just skated all the time,” says Murphy.

“Was the second one not geared towards skateboarding?” asks Nate.

“The second one was geared towards skateboarding, but then I broke one of my hands,” says Murphy.

“We were in Vegas, and I was like, ‘I’m not NOT playing the Vegas show.’ I just got really trashed and ruined my hands more. So it’s easy to get swept up… I think there’s times in which one must hold themselves back and really consider the implications of playing through injury.”

“I will say we learned the same thing on our recent little tour because we all got horrifically sunburnt, and we had to cut Parker out of his sequined top at the end of the last show,” says Nate.

Over the years many lessons have been learned, but Nuclear Tourism has broken through the Athens ceiling from regularly playing rowdy house shows to the main stage of the Georgia Theatre. Although the band notes the sound quality is much better at the Georgia Theatre, it was much harder to play off the crowd’s energy and know where to toe the line of onstage antics. It was a new environment with new lessons (and achievements) earned, like leveraging their rider into an estimated 60 cans of Miller High Life.

Even without the cushy perks, house shows are an integral part of Athens’ music culture. Graham notes that house shows are a “majority of the scene in some ways,” especially with the loss of venues like the Caledonia Lounge. Door charges and bar rules that can be barriers to entry are absent, so it’s easier to draw a wider and more diverse audience. Not to mention easier for musicians to play.

“Anyone can play a house show, and most of the time people there are going to be stoked about it anyway because they’re all just out there to have a good time,” says Nate. “I remember the first house show we ever played in Athens… people were just like floor to ceiling because there were people crowdsurfing, and already the ceiling was probably

only a foot or two taller. I was like, ‘Oh, this is sick. This is different.’”

After sharing bills with Australian punk band The Chats and surf-punk legends Agent Orange, amassing more than a million plays on Spotify for their biggest single “Subatomic,” and gaining confidence in their craft, all of the members share a collective sigh of relief and excitement to release their sophomore album Nuclear Tourism on May 12. Having played many of the tracks live for three years, “it’s been a long time in the making,” says Graham. “This newest album is different.”

Nuclear Tourism’s 2018 debut album Scraping By is what the group considers more straightforward surf punk that defined the band at the time. Growing as musicians, the new album displays a broader melding of the members’ influences and maturity in composition. Although Allen is the lead songwriter, each track was workshopped by the entire band. In both genres and song elements, the band shows more comfort and flexibility in trying new things and expanding their sound.

“Part of me was a little skeptical coming into this record with all these different genres,” says Allen. “I honestly didn’t know if they’d go together. We had a bunch of ska/ reggae songs, and then the next one would be a Stooges/ Lou Reed kinda thing. This album is definitely more wellrounded, more garage-rock influenced—stuff like Skegss, Together Pangea, Meth Wax, plus Athens bands like The Whigs.”

“I think sonically, like how they were recorded, makes it cohesive where it otherwise might not have been,” says Murphy about recording the album at The Glow Recording Studio. “There are certain departures that take you down one way, but then it grounds itself. But I feel like it never strays.”

In celebration of the album, Nuclear Tourism is holding a listening party and an album release show. On Thursday, May 11 at Flicker Theatre & Bar, there will be physical copies of the album and new merch for sale, plus the promise of “entertainment”… and plenty of beer. The following night on May 12, Nuclear Tourism will perform the album at the 40 Watt Club for its official release, where Allen supposedly “has a few tricks up his sleeve.” f

WHO: Nuclear Tourism, CDSM, Mx Lonely, Coma Therapy

WHERE: 40 Watt Club

WHEN: Friday, May 12, 8 p m

HOW MUCH: $12

KYLER VOLLMAR

A Nashville for Athens NOVEL SET IN ATHENS DEALS WITH THE PANDEMIC’S FALLOUT

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

Itmay not be the Great American Novel, but The Time Has Come is an early contender for the Great American Pandemic Novel.

Set in Athens just as people started to emerge from lockdown, the book follows seven characters as they readapt to everyday life—or not—culminating in a violent episode as their paths all meet. It’s written by Will Leitch, an Athens resident who founded the influential sports website Deadspin and currently writes for New York Magazine and MLB.com, among others.

It’s not a sequel per se, but anyone who reads Leitch’s previous novel, How Lucky, will remember a few characters, including Daphne, a dedicated nurse who likes to pray with her patients and gets some side-eye from her (non-Mother) superiors. As Leitch tells it, he sprung How Lucky on his agent, and publisher HarperCollins didn’t expect it to sell many copies, so the lawyers laid off How Lucky. When that book was successful, they did insist on changing many of the names to protect the innocent in The Time Has Come For example, UGA’s football coach is named Stepper. An iguana called Kirby makes a brief appearance, though.

Still, local readers will recognize the scenery and notice in the characters bits and pieces of people they know: In addition to Daphne, there’s Theo, a failed restaurateur who takes over his family’s quaint Five Points drugstore; Tina, a teacher who blames Theo’s father for tearing her family apart; Karson, a lawyer and community organizer who’s thinking about selling out; Jason, a contractor with a brilliant and athletic son; David, a recovering addict running a downtown music venue; and Dorothy, the tough widow of Athens’ first Black judge.

Leitch—who also co-hosts the film podcast “Grierson & Leitch”—says he modeled the novel after the intertwined plotlines of movies like Robert Altman’s Short Cuts or Nashville. “I wanted to do this weird idea of doing 35 chapters about 35 different characters,” he says. “At the end, there is some sort of terrorist attack. And I was informed very quickly that 35 is too many. My editor was not entirely sure that seven was not too many.”

Flagpole: It struck me as being Faulkneresque in terms of the structure, where every chapter is narrated from the point of view of a different person. There’s this prominent family with, perhaps, a dark secret. It could have gone in more of a Southern Gothic direction, but it’s actually very optimistic about human nature.

Will Leitch: My publisher gets mad at me when I refer to it this way, but it’s a feelgood book about a shooting. I liked the idea of doing something about people that have gone through an extremely difficult time

and have suffered and have gone through pain and have lost and then tried to pick up the pieces and move forward. I feel like there was this quiet underlying tension that we all just try not to think about that much. Whether it’s the election coming up, whether it’s the climate, whether it’s endstage capitalism or whatever, we are doing our best just to get through our regular lives, while forces larger than us surround us and put us in potential peril that we are vaguely aware of, but are frankly too busy with our own regular lives to deal with.

FP: As soon as I got through about three pages, my mind immediately went to Pizzagate. [Editor’s note: The QAnon conspiracy theory that prominent Democrats were keeping child sex slaves in the basement of a Washington, D.C. pizzeria, which inspired a man to drive there from North Carolina and shoot it up with an AR-15.]

WL: Of course. It’s clearly meant to. I wanted politics to be what they are for most people, which is not the focus of your daily life, but directing you in ways that you have no power to control. And I think every character in the book, in one way or the other, is affected by politics. I am outgoing with my political views, but the most important part of my day is getting through it, and making sure my kids are OK and my parents are alright. And I think that’s most people’s priority. But I was also thinking about how everyone, both in politics and outside

of politics, kind of lost their mind. And I think that’s Tina. She’s lost. You know, Tina was actually inspired by that kindergarten teacher who stormed the Capitol. They interviewed her afterwards, and she’s like, “I wasn’t trying to stop the steal or anything.” She had literally gone down a rabbit hole online, and got totally convinced that people in Congress had little children in cages.

FP: The book being set in Athens, a lot of readers are going to recognize specific people and places, but also some general archetypes. You’ve got this diverse cast of characters. How were you able to get in their heads and write from their point of view?

WL: I’m from the Midwest, lived in Los Angeles for a year, St. Louis for a year and a half, grew up in Illinois and lived in New York for 13 years. I’ve been here 10 years. And the thing I love about Athens is, you can meet so many different types of people in Athens. There aren’t a lot of cities like that. You’ve got your Normaltown crew; you’ve got your East Athens crew; you’ve got your Oconee crew; you’ve got the college aspect.

WL: Basically, I was working full-time for New York Magazine. I left Deadspin in 2008. My wife and I met in 2006, 2007. We got married in 2010. Our son William was born in 2011. The Brooklyn apartment was starting to feel weirdly small all of a sudden. A lot of New Yorkers have to make that decision when they have a family—are we staying in the city? Are we going to the suburbs? I didn’t have enough connection to this place that I was gonna go live on Long Island or New Jersey or Connecticut.

What happened was, there’s a site called Sports on Earth that I used to write for. They asked me, “Would you like to be our lead writer?” I said, “Actually, yes, I’d love to. But you have to let me live wherever I want.” We looked at Charleston, we looked at Austin, we looked at New Orleans. My wife went to school here, but I had never actually been to Athens. We went to Five and Ten, and I remember I got the check, and after paying New York prices for 13 years, it was amazing. I fell in love with Athens pretty quickly. We live in Five Points. It’s right by Barrow, which is where my kids go to school, so I’m able to walk them to school. And I got season tickets for basketball. They’re not the Jack Nicholson seats, but they’re, like, the Diane Keaton seats.

FP: Deadspin was part of that first wave of digital journalism. With another wave of layoffs hitting the industry, and Vice and Buzzfeed News recently shutting down, what do you see for the future?

WL: The reason Deadspin worked was not because I was so funny and brilliant, or it was so awesome. It’s because it was given time. I pitched the idea to Nick Denton, and they said, “It’s really cheap. Don’t worry about it. Do whatever the hell you want.” I wasn’t trying to reinvent the internet. I wasn’t trying to reinvent sports journalism. I had some ideas about the gap between sports journalism and the way fans view it, and that people at ESPN who hated their jobs would feed me tips.

And so, to me, Athens is this burgeoning massive metropolis that will let kids do stuff that I never got to do growing up, but it’s also a small town. In Athens you can have seven different characters like this, who are all very different from one another, all occupying very different places within Athens. Inevitably, Karson knows Theo, and oh, wait, of course Dorothy’s husband would have known the Lindberghs, and stuff like that. I coach Little League baseball, and when you coach Little League baseball, you meet a lot of Jasons.

FP: So, how did you wind up here? You said your wife is from Columbus, but you didn’t wind up in Columbus.

What you have to do—and this is what people don’t do—is get talented people who have a vision, and leave them alone. Because people get this wrong—that journalism is out of touch. No. The advertising market crumbled. Journalism is doing fine. The thing [Deadspin successor] Defector does is, they’re not trying to be bigger than they are. Stop scaling so freaking big. Vice was a good idea, but then it got huge. It’s the same thing every few years—let’s pour so much money into [some new idea] that it inevitably topples. What’s wrong with going back to, like, being a magazine in the 1970s?

FP: Last question. How are the Braves going to do this year?

WL: I think they’re going to win the division. The Mets have clear flaws. I think [the Braves are] legitimately set up to be the best team in the National League for the next four or five years. But I don’t like baseball right now because the Cardinals suck. I’m in a very dark place right now (laughs). f

Leitch will discuss The Time Has Come at an AthensClarke County Library event, sponsored by Avid Bookshop, on Tuesday, May 16 from 7–8 p.m.

Will Leitch

live music calendar

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 May 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.”

Wednesday 10

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.

Ciné 9 p.m. (doors). $10. www.athenscine. com

NORMA RAE This local four-piece plays soulful, distinctively Southern Americana.

THE LICKSKILLETS New local band playing Southern gothic folk.

Creature Comforts Brewery

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

RED OAK STRING BAND Local band playing a feel-good blend of bluegrass, blues, folk, rock and classic country. (6 p.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar

New West Records Happy Hour. 5 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreand bar.com

ESTHER ROSE Singer-songwriter taking influence from traditional country and the vibrant quilt of experiences she has sewn from her travels.

CLOVER COUNTY Local singersongwriter AG sings delicate, effervescent country hymns.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

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

Georgia Theatre

8:30 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. $35. www.georgiatheatre.com

RAILROAD EARTH Americana mainstay and “newgrass” jam band from Stillwater, NJ.

Hendershot’s

8 p.m. www.hendershotsathens.com

PANIC WAVE Young up-andcomers with a punky, melodic sound. EP release show!

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 11

40 Watt Club

8 p.m. $15. www.40watt.com

PONY BRADSHAW Introspective country rocker hot off the heels of his most recent album, North Georgia Rounder.

Festival Hall

7:30 p.m. $22. www.festivalhallga. com

THE JAZZ LEGACY PROJECT “Art

Blakey, The Father of Modern Jazz” is a tribute to the Jazz Messengers bandleader and leading Hard Bop era drummer.

Hendershot’s

7:30–11 p.m. $10. www.hendershots athens.com

SABACHA DANCE SOCIAL DJ

L.A. Darius leads a Latin dance party with salsa, bachata, merengue and cha-cha-cha. An hour-long lesson is followed by open dancing.

Hotel Indigo

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

EntertainmentAthensGA

MASON PARKER Singersongwriter from Cleveland.

CLAY LEVERETT Local songwriter and country-minded rocker whose songs are both tough and tender.

Nowhere Bar

9:30 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/

NowhereBarAthens STEADY ROTATION Rock and roll jam band from Tennessee.

CAM AND HIS DAM JAM BAND Psychedelic jam band from Athens. Southern Brewing Co. 6–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

KARAOKE NIGHT Every Thursday evening.

Friday 12

40 Watt Club

8 p.m. $12. www.40watt.com

CDSM Goth rock synth lines over booming, industrial drums define this apocalyptic band.

NUCLEAR TOURISM Local band playing surf-punk originals. Album release show!

MX LONELY Brooklyn horror rock with sweeping shoegaze walls of sound.

COMA THERAPY Athens band

influenced by no-wave and postpunk scenes.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Shadebeast Presents. 9 p.m. $10. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

GUILLOTINE A.D. Brutal Southern death metal from Georgia. KRYPT Augusta thrash metal.

MALFORMITY Atlanta band inspired by a wide range of music, including Swedish and Florida death metal.

The Foundry

7:30 p.m. bit.ly/MixTapeMay12

MIXTAPE Cover band focused on hits from the ’90s.

Georgia Theatre

8 p.m. $17 (adv.), $20. www.georgia theatre.com

STEELN’ PEACHES A cast of soulful musicians make their way deftly through the Allman Brothers Band’s extensive discography.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

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

KOYAL Atlanta-based pop rock five-piece.

International Grill & Bar

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

AthensGA

JALEN TYRELL EBERHARDT

Born and raised in Athens, Jalen has been playing saxophone since he was 11 years old.

Nowhere Bar

10 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/ NowhereBarAthens

CASUAL CADENZA Up-andcoming jam band from Atlanta with roots in Athens known for genrecrossing improvisation.

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

DIABLO SANDWICH AND THE DR. PEPPERS Performing a plethora of country, bluegrass, jazz and rock.

VFW Post 2872

8 p.m. $10. www.facebook.com/vfw post2872

RAMBLIN’ COUNTRY BAND

Georgia-based band playing country, western and rock classics.

Saturday 13

40 Watt Club

Classic City Wrestling: Dawn of a Dynasty. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $10. www.40watt.com

CLASSIC CITY JUKEBOX Local rock and roll cover band provides the soundtrack to live wrestling matches.

Athentic Brewing Co.

Mutual Aid Athens Spring Fundraiser. 5:30 p.m. $5–10 suggested donation. www.athenticbrewing.com

NEWPORT TRANSPLANT

Dynamic honky-tonk band straddling punk rock and sci-fi wonder.

PATRICK BARRY Athens-based songwriter and finger-style guitarist in the tradition of English and Irish folk.

COWBOY KEROUAC Queer anarcho country.

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

MARK PLEMMONS Talented local pianist. (8 a.m.)

DEEP ROOTS Southern rock covers. (10 a.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar

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

BLUE CACTUS Indie country with glam and electronic flourishes.

EVAN STEPP AND THE PINERS

Loud, classic country band from Atlanta.

TYLER KEY Multi-instrumentalist of T. Hardy Morris, The Howdies and others plays his own set of folk rock.

Justin Brogdon. (1:45 p.m.)

THE WELFARE LINERS Fivepiece local bluegrass unit blending classic tunes with melodic, highlonesome originals. (2:40 p.m.)

SOCIAL PEOPLE New group made up of longtime Athens musicians Dodd Ferrelle, Adam Poulin, Tim Adams and Mitch Turner. (3:35 p.m.)

DIABLO SANDWICH & THE DR.

PEPPERS Local all-star Southern rock band blending country, jazz and more. (4:30 p.m.)

WONDERLAND RANGERS Local rabble-rouser Timi Conley performs

ORIGAMI ANGEL Washington, D.C. duo fusing pop-punk and fifth wave emo.

PINKSHIFT Baltimore rock band inspired by ’90s grunge and 2000s pop punk.

SWEET PILL Philadelphia emo band with elements of hardcore and pop.

Ciné

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

KARAOKE WITH THE KING Show off your pipes to the world. Every Tuesday.

Tuesday 16

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. work.shop

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

UNKNOWN BALLERS Recording project of NYC’s Eamonn Wilcox, who writes dreamy, surrealist synthpop songs.

MARCEL SLETTEN Ambient electronica musician and owner of the independent label Primordial Void.

Georgia Theatre

Rooftop

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

SYLVIA ROSE NOVAK Local bassist and singer leads a rock band with heavy lyrics.

Hendershot’s

8–11 p.m. www.hendershotsathens. com

2023 HIP-HOP APPRECIATION

WEEK PRE-PARTY Montu Miller leads a pre-party for the annual appreciation week happening May 15–21.

Hugh Hodgson Concert Hall

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

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING

BAND Pioneering progressive bluegrass group from Colorado.

International Grill & Bar

7:30–9 p.m. FREE! www.facebook. com/IGBAthensGA

EDWARD BOYER A tribute to Elvis.

Madison-Morgan

Cultural Center

Main Stage Series. 7:30 p.m. $35. www.mmcc-arts.org

THE QUEBE SISTERS Grace, Sophia and Hulda Quebe front a Dallas-based five-piece performing a unique Americana blend of jazzinfluenced Western swing, country and Texas-style fiddling.

Pittard Park

The Winterville Marigold Festival. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. www.marigoldfestival. com

SIR CRAZY PANTS Rock and roll songs for kids. (11 a.m.)

MON DON RAM BAND Students from Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School perform. (11:45 p.m.)

SONGWRITER ROUND Claire Campbell, Tikica Platt and Kimberly Morgan York trade off. (12:30 p.m.)

THE ROYAL VELVET Three-piece local rock band led by songwriter

dance-tastic psych-pop with his allstar backing band. (5:25 p.m.)

CICADA RHYTHM Captivating Athens duo playing melodic, rootsinfluenced folk-rock. (6:30 p.m.)

Rabbit Hole Studios

HauntFest Mayhem. 5 p.m.–12 a.m. $10 (adv.), $15. www.hauntfest.us

MEDX Local electro, trip-hop and dubstep DJ.

TATTOO LOGIC Five-piece funkpunk band from Athens.

LADY ELEVEN Grunge rock band from Atlanta.

SCHMOOZE Five-piece funk rock band.

RECESS PARTY A glittery, messy collage of rock, funk and alternative.

CAM AND HIS DAM JAM BAND

Psychedelic jam band from Athens with notes of bluegrass, funk and old-school Southern flair. Wire Park

6 p.m. FREE! www.wirepark.net

GREEN EGGS AND PAM Rock, pop and dance tracks from the ’70s–‘90s.

Sunday 14

Athentic Brewing Co.

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

ATHENTIC BLUEGRASS JAM

Players of all skill levels are invited to participate in this open jam, which strives to unite members of the local folk music community.

Boutier Winery & Inn

Mother’s Day Celebration. 2–5 p.m. FREE! www.boutierwinery.com

JASON AND ANNA Acoustic Beatles tribute playing love songs.

Monday 15

40 Watt Club 7 p.m. $21. www.40watt.com

PATRICK BARRY Local songwriter weaving stories with his baritone voice and intricate fingerstyle. The World Famous 10 p.m. www.facebook.com/theworld famousathens

MCQQEEN Local noise-punk band with reverb-soaked vocals. PROBLEMS New house music from Nebraska influenced subversive dance music project from 1manbandgod founder Darren Keen. SAFETY FLUID New local project. BEER PISS Athens hardcore punk group.

Wednesday 17

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

CARNIVAL BARKER No info available. (6 p.m.)

Flicker Theatre & Bar 9 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreand bar.com

DR. FRED’S KARAOKE Featuring pop, rock, indie and more. Georgia Theatre

8 p.m. $22. www.georgiatheatre.com

BOOGIE T.RIO Electronic producer Boogie T and his live band. 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. f

Origami Angel plays at the 40 Watt Club on Monday, May 15.

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.

ArtATHENS CREATIVE DIRECTORY

(Athens, GA) The ACD is a platform to connect creatives with patrons. Visual artists, musicians, actors, writers and other creatives are encouraged to create a free listing. athenscreatives@gmail.com, www. athenscreatives.directory

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.sandycreeknaturecenterinc.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-ProposalForm

JOKERJOKERTV CALL FOR ART-

ISTS (Online) JOKERJOKERtv is open to ideas and actively accept-

ing 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

BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) “Forge a Bottle Opener” will cover making open face and church key style bottle openers. May 27, 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.”

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.

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. 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. Through May 12.

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

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

May 20 or June 17, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $175. 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 Fire Poker” covers tapering, bending and scrolling, forge welding, cutting with a chisel and more. June 24, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. greenhowhandmade@gmail.com

COMMUNITY DANCE IMPROV (work.shop) No experience necessary. Vaccines and boosters required. Sundays, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Donations accepted. lisayaconelli@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-certified course for first-time homeowners that covers the homebuying process in Georgia. Preregistration required. May 20 and June 17, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. $10. www.athenslandtrust.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 par-

ticipants into stillness and silence. Mondays, 4–5 p.m. Donations encouraged. www.healingartscentre.net

PUBLIC DANCE (The Studio Athens)

Beginner Rumba lessons followed by DJ’d waltz, swing, salsa, tango etc. Every fourth Saturday. 7:30–10 p.m. $5 (students), $10 (nonstudents). 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. liveoakmartialarts@gmail.com, www. liveoakmartialarts.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.revolutiontherapyandyoga.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”

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. Through May.

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. • “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 currently on view 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.

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,

“Object Lessons in American Art: Selections from the Princeton University Art Museum” is on view at the Georgia Museum of Art through Sunday, May 14. Pictured above is “O-Chee-Na-Shink-Ka a” by Henry Inman

yoga classes on Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. Ongoing classes are $5/class or $18/month. 706-612-8077, ommmever@yahoo.com

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

SCNC BOARD MEMBERS (Sandy Creek Nature Center) Sandy Creek Nature Center, Inc., the founding support organization for SCNC, is seeking new members for its board of directors. Experience in accounting, social media or retail preferred. Apply online. scncinc@gmail.com, www.sandycreeknaturecenterinc. org/board-members

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),

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.

TINY ATH GALLERY (174 Cleveland Ave.) Susie Criwell presents a collection of vibrant paintings in “My Pocket of Nature.” Opening reception May 12, 5–8 p.m. Open for Third Thursday, May 18, 6–9 p.m.

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. • “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.

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

FOXFIRE SUMMER CAMP (Foxfire Woods and Farm) “Farmyard to Backyard Summer Camp” runs June 5–9. “The Nature of Stories Summer Camp” runs June 12–16. Camps run 8:30–12 p.m. for halfday participants ($145) and 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. for full-day participants ($245). foxfirewoodsandfarm@ gmail.com, www.foxfirewoodsandfarm.com

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

REPORT CARDS REWARDS PRO-

GRAM (Athens, GA) Students in Kindergarten through 12th grade who reside in Athens-Clarke County can take a copy of their final report cards to a Leisure Services pool or splash pad during aquatics season for rewards. All A’s or E’s guarantees a free summer pool pass. All A’s and B’s or E’s and M’s is good for 10 free swims. 706-613-3589

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 ART CAMPS (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Summer camps run June 5–9 and June 26–30, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (ages 4–7) or 12:30–2:30 p.m. (ages 8–11. $150–200/week. Six oneweek camps for grades 6–8 run Mondays–Fridays in June and July, 12:30–3:30 p.m. $190–240/week. Check website for activities and grade breakdowns. www.ocaf.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.treehousekidandcraft.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.thefullmoonschool.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

TUTORING (Online) The Athens Regional Library System is now offering free, live online tutoring via tutor.com for students K-12, plus college students and adult learners. Daily, 2–9 p.m. www.athenslibrary. org

Support Groups

ACA ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS AND DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES (Holy Cross Lutheran Church) This support group meets weekly. Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 p.m. annetteanelson@gmail.com

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 runs through May 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.rabbitholestudios.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, www. workshopathens.com f

Yonder Mountain String Band

May

Tickets start at $25 with promo code PAC25. UGA students $10. Free parking. Buy tickets now: pac.uga.edu or (706) 542-4400

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

Large 2BR/BA house w/ loft across from river downtown. Creative space, $1400. Call for more information: 706202-0533

Get Flagpole delivered 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 706-549-0301 or email front desk@flagpole.com.

FOR SALE YARD SALES

Guitars; extension ladders; industrial mop bucket; tools, Pentax 35mm camera; kitchen stuff; lg suitcase; backpacks; yard tools/ chainsaw; sump pump; wetsuit; beach chairs, etc. CASH ONLY. 5/13, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 199 Lakeside Dr. Arnoldsville, GA 30619

Motorcycle sm./lg leathers/ rain gear ($15–300), misc. parts, helmets, trailor ($500). CASH ONLY. 5/13, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 199 Lakeside Dr. Arnoldsville, GA 30619

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

MASSAGE

John Duello LMT. Offering Thai massage. Call or text: 706-963-0068. Out calls only!

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.trumpscatering.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

Find employees by advertising in the Flagpole!

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 frontdesk@flagpole.com to be included in emails about future Distribution opportunities. Own car, a bility to follow instructions, attention to detail and Tuesday availability required! Previous delivery experience preferred. No calls or walk-ins!

Need newspapers for your garden? We have plenty here at Flagpole! Call ahead and we’ll get them ready for you. Leave current issues on stands. 706-549-0301

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 on the corner of Atlanta Hwy. & Mitchell Bridge Rd. near Aldi and Publix.) Pre-registration is highly encouraged! Visit www. publichealthathens.com for more information.

The Weekly Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

Immaterial Possession’s Mercyofthe Crane Folk PLUS,

MORE MUSIC NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

SCARY MONSTERS: Goth/darkwave/deathrock stars Tears For The Dying released its new single “Kaiju” last week, and it’s yet another fine entry into the group’s catalog. It hits upon several recognizable and canonical elements for this type of music (effects-laden guitars and vocals; throbby, persistent bass) and conjures up multiple reference points. I’m not crazy about the tempo changes it contains, but when it speeds up and kicks in fully, I all of a sudden don’t mind them so much. Find this at tearsforthedying. bandcamp.com, and follow the group via facebook.com/ TearsForTheDying.

IT’S FRIDAY, YOU’RE IN LOVE: Adria Stembridge (Tears For The Dying) is half of the hosting team behind the popular Dark Entries Goth Karaoke events, which have darkened regular Friday nights at Buvez for a long time now. Longtime Athens musician, and member of more bands than you could even remember, Gregory Sanders, is the other half. All of which is to say that if you’ve got a hankering for belting your Bauhaus best then, by all means, get yourself to one of these nights. Your hosts have a massive collection of tracks for you to perform over and not just goth, either. Patrons can enjoy croaking out a variety of songs categorized as post-punk, industrial, punk and other related genres. Upcoming dates for Goth Karaoke are May 19, June 9 and 23, and July 7 and 21. Buvez is located at 585 Barber St. in Suite A, and these nights start at 7 p.m.

RHYTHM NATION, 2023: Immaterial Possession celebrated the release of its second full-length album, Mercy of the Crane Folk, last week and boy oh boy, is this thing hot to trot. Preceded in release by the singles “To The Fete” and the title track, anticipation for this has been high. And I’m here to advise you that, if you were anticipating this like I was, disappointment shouldn’t appear anywhere on your radar. The record is a stupendously arranged collection of 10 songs that offer, incongruously, both ecstatic—nearly spiritual—release and intermittent feelings of claustrophobia. For the uninitiated, Immaterial Possession can be loosely described as a dark-psych group, but its artistic debt reaches much farther back than the 1960s and beyond much of the expression of the genre’s most popular groups. One of my favorite aspects of the band is that they’re utterly unbeholden to any Athens musical tradition save one of continual growth and exploration. Find this at immaterialpossession.bandcamp.com.

LOOK OVER THERE: After another incredible season, UGA Presents will close out Saturday, May 13 with a performance by Nederland, CO’s Yonder Mountain String Band at Hodgson Concert Hall. The now-25 year old group was honored with a Grammy Award nomination for its 2022 album Get Yourself Outside and was honored in its home state with an induction into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. The group also suffered a tragedy last month when founding member Jeff Austin, who left the group in 2014, passed away suddenly following a medical emergency Apr. 6. Tickets

for this show range from $25–60 and can be found at pac. uga.edu. You may also purchase tickets in person at the Performing Arts Box Office Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. or by calling 706-542-4400 during those same hours. For more information, please see pac.uga.edu/event/ yonder-mountain-string-band.

NIGHTCLUBBING: The full lineup for AthFest Music & Arts Festival has now been announced and is available online. The popular club crawl returns this year, too, with stages at The Georgia Theatre, 40 Watt Club, Live Wire, Hendershot’s, Flicker Theatre & Bar, Ciné, The Foundry, The Globe, Paloma Park and Nowhere Bar. This year’s AthFest happens June 23-25. The full lineup and club crawl wristbands are available at athfest.com.

NEW, MAYBE NOTABLE: The brand spankin’ new group The Lickskillets will open for Norma Rae at Ciné Wednesday, May 10. While I’ve not yet seen them live in person, they reportedly perform “…country goth/ murder ballads kinda stuff” which sounds alright in my book. The group is composed of the dedicated crew of Steve Fitzpatrick, Jason George, Wendy Bell and Rob Fluhr and led by vocalist Wynn Walter. Now you know exactly as much as I do about these folks, so why not head down and form an opinion, why don’t ya?

TANKS A LOT: Jameson Tank has a new single out now named “Side Mission” that sounds exactly like what you’d expect if someone melted down a bunch of Van Halen, Asia and Triumph records and mixed them all together. In other words, this is 1980s-style arena rock in the first degree. You

can catch them at the inaugural Athens in Atlanta showcase happening Saturday, June 17 at Terminal West along with Heffner, The Pink Stones, Monsoon, AD Blanco and Bea Porges. Find the group’s music on Spotify, and for more information, please see facebook.com/jamesontank. f

Local Journalism Counts

AWARD WINNER REMINDS US WHY WE NEED IT

By Pete McCommons and Brian PJ Cronin pete@flagpole.com

Brian PJ Cronin is this year’s recipient of the Rollin M. “Pete” McCommons Award for Distinguished Community Journalism (the “Petebody”), established at UGA’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication by Grady Thrasher and Kathy Prescott. The Grady College awards committee selected Cronin for his four-part series on food insecurity in the affluent New York state area covered by his paper, The Highlands Current, and entitled “Hunger in the Highlands.”

“We were impressed by the depth and richness of this reporting, and especially the time and resources he was given to carry out this project,” explained Kyser Lough, the chair of the McCommons award committee and an assistant professor in Grady’s Department of Journalism. “He used well-rounded sourcing to find the relevant data and people necessary to build a deeper narrative,” Lough added, “which allowed him to thoroughly present the topic and then start exploring what people were doing about it. His work highlights the need for in-depth coverage like this that can fully explore the nuance and context of a community topic, and the importance of community news outlets.”

Here’s what Cronin had to say for himself when he received his award at the Grady Salutes gala on Friday, Apr. 28.

Thank you so much for this incredible honor, and for inviting me to come here. The most nerve-wracking and exciting interview I ever did as a journalist was when I got to spend an afternoon hanging out with Kate Pierson from The B-52s, so it means a lot to me to be able to be here in beautiful Athens.

And thank you for creating an award for community journalism.

As I was told by my editor at the time when I started writing for The Highlands Current, there is nothing quite like covering the community in which you live. One week you’re walking down Main Street, and everyone is shaking your hand and thanking you for exposing government corruption, and the next week you’re doing all your grocery

shopping two towns away so that no one throws a punch at you in the check-out line. I had assumed that was a joke, but after we put a story on the front page about an incident that happened at our local grocery store… well, let’s just say that if you ever find yourself at Key Foods in Beacon, NY, it would be best if you didn’t mention my name.

It’s a dicey gig, but someone has to do it. We know this by taking a look at the places known as “news deserts,” the ever-increasing locations that don’t have a local, independent news source such as The Highlands Current or Flagpole to keep an eye on things. The data tells us what befalls such places: lower voter turnout, lower civic engagement, elections in which incumbents run unopposed, higher taxes and higher political polarization.

There’s also the things that data can’t quite measure: What it means when a community no longer sees itself reflected in the media, when its shared tragedies and victories are no longer highlighted in a public forum, when its citizens forget that they can have a measurable impact on the world around them, when the muscle of democracy atrophies.

It’s up to small, local, independent news organizations with boots on the ground and knowledge of their communities to keep their communities from

crumbling. Big Tech is not going to do it for us. There may be publishers espousing the supposed benefits that A.I. will bring shrinking newsrooms and time-crunched reporters, but I can assure you, there is no chatbot that is willing to sit through a fourhour zoning board meeting.

It’s up to us because no one else is going to do it for us. And it is especially significant for an institution as renowned and respected as the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication to honor the work that the country’s small newspapers are doing week in and week out, under difficult circumstances, because we love the places we live and want to see our homes thrive.

Thank you to my colleagues at The Highlands Current for always picking up the slack when I fall down a reporting rabbit hole for weeks at a time, for the communities of Beacon and Philipstown for supporting us, and for our editors and board of directors who always have our backs whenever we write a story that is critical of the actions of someone powerful in our community, who then responds by informing us that they will no longer be donating to our paper.

Whenever that happens, which it does somewhat regularly, I always get a sinking feeling in my stomach and an urge to update my resume, but my editor always laughs and says, “Forget ’em.”

He actually uses a different F-word than “forget” but I shan’t wish to sully this august institution with such salty language, so we’ll save it for the newsroom. Thank you again. f

Brian PJ Cronin

BETH CRONIN