FP230531

Chris McNeal, Cody Robinson

CONTRIBUTORS Bonita Applebum, Erin France, Gordon Lamb, Ed Tant, Ross Williams CIRCULATION Jennifer Bray, Gerald Burris, Charles Greenleaf

The third annual Forest Heights Blueberry Festival is taking place this weekend on June 3 with activities like a cooking competition, garden tours, live music and more happening from 9 a.m.–9 p.m. For more information, visit regenerators.earth.

city dope

Finally, a New ACC Auditor

PLUS, NO TUITION HIKE AT UGA AND MORE LOCAL NEWS

By Blake Aued and Ross Williams news@flagpole.com

Mayor Kelly Girtz has recommended a longtime Athens-Clarke County staffer to fill the role of internal auditor—a position that has been vacant for nearly two years.

Gavin Hassemer is currently the assistant director of the Central Services Department, which handles maintenance and landscaping. He also served as interim director while Andrew Saunders was temporarily running Housing and Community Development. Hassemer was a senior planner prior to transferring to Central Services.

Hassemer graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor’s degree in urban and regional studies, and from American Public University with a master’s degree in political science.

Safety Civilian Oversight Board to investigate complaints against police. Members of PSCOB have been lobbying to hire the monitor themselves, or at least have input into who is hired, but Girtz and commissioners appear to be leaning toward placing that position in the auditor’s office.

In addition, Girtz also recommended Marcy Jolles to serve as the county’s new Municipal Court judge, replacing Ryan Hope, who was appointed to State Court. Jolles, a staff attorney for Superior Court Judge Lawton Stephens, previously worked as a senior assistant solicitor and as a public defender and in private practice at the law firms Cowsert Heath and Silver & Archibald. She received her undergraduate and law degrees from UGA.

“Marcy’s deep knowledge of law and her breadth of practice in the courtroom are the ideal combination for service as our Municipal Court judge,” Girtz said.

Both recommendations will be up for ratification by the commission at its June 6 meeting. If approved, Hassemer and Jolles will serve two-year terms.

Construction on a cul-de-sac off Oconee Street in East Athens could start as soon as this fall.

On May 23, the day before stopping in Athens, Ossoff visited Roswell to announce the Helper Act, a bipartisan bill establishing a loan program for police, firefighters, teachers and paramedics to buy their first home. Those in qualifying professions could access the loans with no down payment. [BA]

Perdue Warns of Tough Times for Colleges

Most Georgia college students will pay about the same tuition and fees this fall, but University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue warned that a state budget cut could put college presidents in a tough position.

“They’re under a tremendous amount of pressure,” he said.

“We need to recognize that and thank them and help them the best we can. We’re about to reach a tipping point here at our university system, where we’re going to need more resources in the future to maintain the quality of our academic programs and our college experiences so that our students and families continue to receive a great education for the money here.”

The regents voted not to raise the rates despite warnings of financial challenges ahead. Enrollment is down at most of the state’s higher education institutions, and fewer students translates to fewer dollars distributed from the state budget formula. On top of that, the spending plan signed by Gov. Brian Kemp earlier this month includes a $66 million cut from the university system for a medical records system. With tuition and all other sources, the university system’s budget totals just under $9 billion.

Perdue said inflation is sticking colleges with higher costs for utilities, health care and cost of living adjustments for employees, and he said he looks forward to working with the state legislature to reverse the cuts. “I think it’s evident and clear we’re not trying to recover that through any other means,” he said. “We’ve got to go and appeal to our public funders of the challenges that we have, the funding challenges there, and the needs. We’ve invested too long in our education system in Georgia to watch it just go back down, because I can tell you other states, they’re not [waiting] around, they’re investing, and we need to be with them in that way.

“This is not about playing politics,” he added. “This is too important for politics, but very much working to maintain our principles and our priorities of educating the best students in the best state in the country and being in the best system.”

“I know that Gavin will approach the role of auditor with the critical eye and attention to detail that has characterized all of his work here,” says Girtz.

The Office of Operational Analysis, formerly the auditor’s office, has been in disarray since 2013, when then-Mayor Nancy Denson declined to reappoint John Wolfe, who’d held the position since citycounty unification in 1991. Denson waited a year before appointing an interim auditor, retired ACC administrator Steve Martin, who served for a year. In 2015 Denson named Martin’s assistant, Stephanie Maddox, to the position. Maddox lasted six years but only completed three audits during that time—of Leisure Services summer camps, animal control and the sheriff’s office. The ACC Commission voted to fire her in September 2021, and the position has been vacant ever since.

The position of auditor is a vital one because that person is the mayor and commission’s eyes and ears on government departments. In Athens’ system of government, information flows through the manager’s office. The auditor—like the manager, a charter officer hired and overseen by the mayor and commission—is independent from the manager and can advise the mayor and commission on structural changes that should be made.

Another reason the auditor is important is because that person is expected to hire a “monitor” who will work with the Public

In other courthouse news, Clerk of Superior and State Courts Bevery Logan is retiring effective May 31 after 30 years. A special election will be held to fill the remainder of her term. In the meantime, Probate Court Judge Susan Schaffer will appoint an interim replacement. [Blake Aued]

Ossoff on Affordable Housing

Sen. Jon Ossoff visited Athens last week to tout a federal grant for an Athens Area Habitat for Humanity affordable housing development.

The $2.8 million award for Micah’s Creek was initially announced in September. Micah’s Creek is a development of 50–60 small homes that will be priced at about $140,000 each and aimed at local military veterans, artists and musicians, and families in the Gaines Elementary School attendance zone. The project has also received $4.2 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding through Gov. Brian Kemp’s office.

“A lot of folks struggling to make rent, a lot of folks struggling to buy a first home, and Habitat does great work,” Ossoff told Tim Bryant on WGAU.

Residents with children will also participate in a UGA study on how housing policy affects educational outcomes. Previous research suggests Habitat homebuyers’ children’s test scores improve when the family’s housing situation is stabilized.

The Georgia Board of Regents voted May 16 on a plan to keep tuition flat at all but one of the system’s 26 universities— Middle Georgia State University students will pay an extra $19 per credit hour for in-state students or $66 per credit hour for out-of-state students. Students at the University of West Georgia, Georgia College and State University and Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College will have to shell out an extra $12–$15 in mandatory fees, according to the plan.

The cuts were proposed by the state Senate after a tiff over a hospital regulations bill pushed by Lt. Gov. Burt Jones that Perdue said could threaten a partnership deal between the university and Wellstar Health System. The bill did not pass.

Jones has responded to Perdue’s complaints by asking the university system to report how much it spends on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. “I’m going to continue to ask the University System to evaluate all of their spending,” Jones said in a tweet. “They receive a 10th of the state budget, equaling around $3.1B. If this significant amount of taxpayer dollars isn’t enough, I believe we need a thorough analysis.” [Ross

Williams/Georgia Recorder]

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Gavin Hassemer

Marcy Jolles

Rebel Girl

ELIZABETH GURLEY FLYNN FOUGHT FOR LABOR RIGHTS

By Ed Tant news@flagpole.com

She was called the Rebel Girl, and nearly 60 years after her death in 1964, Elizabeth Gurley Flynn still stirs controversy just as she did as a fiery young left-wing activist in the early years of the 20th century.

Those who object to teaching American students the unvarnished history of this country’s racial and economic struggles aren’t about to honor a bold American dissident like Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, but even from the grave she may have the last word.

As a veteran of protests that challenged plutocracy and plunder in America, Flynn saw and lived history as it happened. Though jailed, beaten and vilified during her life, Flynn knew that she was part of a movement that would change history in America. “History has a longrange perspective,” she said. “It ultimately passes stern judgment on tyrants and vindicates those who fought, suffered, were imprisoned and died for human freedom against political oppression and economic slavery.”

pub notes

You Can’t Fake Local News

THE OTHER BIG LIE UNDERMINES OUR DEMOCRACY, TOO

By Pete McCommons pete@flagpole.com

The other Big Lie is “Fake News.” The same people who perpetrate the Big Lie about the election also promote the concept of fake news, and they perpetuate it with their own fake news. They’re just the latest in a long line of truth-deniers. In the 1930s Gov. Eugene Talmadge, made uncomfortable by questions he didn’t want to answer, railed against what he called “them lyin’ Atlanta newspapers.”

Because of all the journalists I have known, it rankles to hear somebody toss around the fake term “fake news.” There’s sometimes sloppy news, even erroneous news, but there’s no such thing as fake local news.

and put two and two together. You’ve got to be accurate, and you’ve got to be honest. You’re not covering these public officials on a one-shot basis. You’ll be covering them again next week and the weeks after. If you get something wrong, they’ll let you know about it. And if you’re not completely honest with them (even when they’re not completely honest with you), you can lose their respect and their confidence that you’re dealing fairly with them.

Born in 1890, Flynn gave her first political speech at age 15. For the rest of her life she championed causes that still have relevance today, such as peace, racial justice, women’s rights, and better wages and working conditions for Americans laboring in fields, factories, mines and mills. Flynn was an unabashed communist who nonetheless loved this country. She helped organize both the American Civil Liberties Union and the Industrial Workers of the World labor union, and she was arrested and jailed many times during her life of political protest.

Now Flynn is back in the news in her home state of New Hampshire. A May 18 New York Times story headlined “‘Rebel Girl’ Is Honored Until Protest By G.O.P.” detailed how Granite State Republicans torpedoed the installation of a historic marker honoring Flynn in her birthplace of Concord, NH. The marker had been installed in the town during a ceremony on May 1, the original workers’ holiday in America and around the world, but two weeks later it was taken down and placed in storage after Republicans in the “Live Free or Die” state went into a snit about honoring a woman who was both a left-wing firebrand and an American patriot.

Flynn earned her place in history, but in New Hampshire and around America, Republican politicians are leading the charge to ban books and sanitize history.

Flynn earned her Rebel Girl nickname after activist songwriter Joe Hill contrasted working class women in the movement with Gilded Age ladies in their mansions: “There are blue-blooded queens and princesses/ Who have charms made of diamonds and pearl,/ But the only and thoroughbred lady/ Is the Rebel Girl./ Yes, her hands may be hardened from labor,/ And her dress may not be very fine,/ But a heart in her bosom is beating/ That is true to her class and her kind/ And the grifters in terror are trembling/ When her spite and defiance she’ll hurl,/ For the only and thoroughbred lady/ Is the Rebel Girl.”

Hill went from labor union troubadour to movement martyr when he was executed in Utah in 1915 after a murder trial that activists of the time called a frame-up by corporate mining interests in the state. Hill was himself celebrated in song in the 1930s musical tribute, “I Dreamed I Saw Joe Hill Last Night,” which singer Joan Baez brought to a new generation when she warbled the song at the Woodstock music festival in 1969.

In 1996, while in Chicago, I visited the Haymarket Martyrs Monument in an old cemetery outside the city. It honors activists who were executed and jailed after deadly clashes with Chicago cops in 1886. On Dissenters Row around the monument are gravestones of long-ago crusaders, including Joe Hill and Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, whose small and simple marker has her name with the inscription, “The Rebel Girl—Fighter for Working Class Emancipation.”

The Rebel Girl was indeed a fighter, and she was also a patriot. “No one can take my love of country away from me!” Flynn exclaimed. “It’s a rich, fertile, beautiful land capable of satisfying all the needs of its people. It could be a paradise on Earth if it belonged to the people, not to a small owning class.” f

You can’t fake local news. Think about it: The public’s business is conducted in meetings, which by law (so far) must be open meetings. Our democracy (so far) is based on citizens (voters) having an accurate understanding of what’s going on. That’s really very simple. In a democracy, citizens can attend public meetings of their government entities and can hang around afterward to ask questions of their government officials. Of course, there are a lot of meetings of different branches of government, some of them lasting many hours, and

Although local newspapers have closed down all over the country, journalists still explain the government to the citizens, using training, skills and knowledge gained over many years. There is nothing fake about what local journalists do, in spite of the cheap-shot artists who belittle their work because they’re threatened by it. Believe me, there is nothing more real than local government journalism. Its practitioners are face-to-face with their subjects, and there is no room for error or duplicity. Local government coverage is tough, grueling and demanding, though there can be a grim satisfaction in piecing together a story from reluctant sources, sometimes necessitating open records requests or even lawsuits.

some of them are streamed or televised, so that citizens can watch from the privacy of their own homes, with beverages.

For as long as our country has existed, we have delegated to journalists the job of attending meetings and asking questions. Covering public meetings and asking questions is long, hard up-close work, usually at a pay grade that the average citizen wouldn’t accept, even if he or she would do the work. Moreover, you can’t just show up at a public meeting and start covering it. You’ve got to know the territory and the players. You’ve got to know who’s who and what’s what, and that takes training and experience. You’ve got to know a lot about the many areas of government and politics, and you need to know human nature, too. And you’ve got to be able to assimilate a lot of information and pay attention to details

Those who shout “fake news” are undermining our democracy as surely as those who refuse to accept the results of cleanly won elections. You can no more fake a local election than you can fake local news. Local elections, like local government, are conducted by local people we know, and they do it out in the open, according to the rulebook—and, for that matter, all elections are local.

The term “fake news,” like “rigged elections,” is absurd on the local level, but unfortunately, the politics of the absurd is eating away at the foundation of our democracy. Those who shout “fake news” are those who practice it. Ol’ Gene was ahead of his time, and it wasn’t the Atlanta papers doing the lying. f

Reprinted from the July 14, 2021 issue of Flagpole.

Talkin’ Taxes

COMMISSIONERS DEBATE TAX CUT AMIDST RISING HOME VALUES

By Blake Aued news@flagpole.com

Ata recent Athens-Clarke County Commission meeting, homeowners lined up out the City Hall chamber door to complain about their property taxes, which for many have gone up because home values are rising dramatically in Athens and around the country.

“There’s not an endless bucket of money that you can keep coming to the taxpayers for whatever wild ideas you have,” said Steve Everett, who like many of the speakers lives in Five Points, Athens’ most expensive neighborhood.

They urged the commission to cut funding for homelessness programs, bike lanes and even schools, although the ACC government has no control over school taxes or spending. “We have a spending problem, and our priorities are screwed up,” Gordon Rhoden, chair of the Athens GOP, told commissioners.

Mayor Kelly Girtz’s proposed $148 million operating budget keeps the tax rate the same at 13.1 mills, or 1.31%, but property tax revenue is expected to rise from $73 million to $87 million because the tax digest— the total value of taxable property in the county—rose about 15% last year, partially from new construction but mostly because land and buildings are worth more. The tax digest has tripled over the past 20 years to $6.7 billion.

The mayor and commission has responded with a series of small tax cuts over the past three years, and they are likely to pass another one next month. Much of the additional revenue has gone toward pay raises for county employees. Like all employers since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, ACC has had a hard time recruiting and retaining employees. “I think we are in a crisis situation with our

employees, with the job market changing,” Commissioner Carol Myers said at a May 18 work session.

Two commissioners, Mike Hamby and Jesse Houle, have introduced alternative budgets. Hamby’s would cut the property tax rate by 1 mill, using $1 million in unallocated funds, $3.7 million in additional property tax revenue that wasn’t anticipated when Girtz introduced his budget

for example, wants to punt on replacing aging culverts and defer some other spending until next year, while Houle’s budget includes more funding for maintenance and vehicles, and it replenishes a stormwater fund that was drained by repairing an Olympic Drive sinkhole. Houle is also opposed to using one-time ARPA funding because that will create a hole in the budget next year.

Other commissioners have their own priorities: Patrick Davenport wants to raise tipping fees at the county landfill because it’s cheaper than others nearby, so out-oftown haulers bring trash here. Melissa Link supports more funding for community events like AthFest and the Wild Rumpus Halloween parade. Tiffany Taylor cites sidewalks, streetlights and a Black history museum as important needs. Dexter Fisher

here tonight do not represent the majority of Athens,” Gehring said as the audience booed.

Link called Hamby’s proposed tax cut “a performative political gesture” that would only save the owner of a $450,000 home about $150. According to Gehring’s calculations, a senior citizen in East Athens with a home assessed at $175,000 would save just $33. Meanwhile, the Boston company that owns downtown student apartment building The William would save almost $34,000 under Hamby’s plan.

Owners of modestly valued homes are less affected thanks to a referendum last year when local voters approved Republican state Rep. Houston Gaines’ legislation raising the county’s homestead exemption from $10,000 to $25,000. That means homeowners are paying taxes on a smaller portion of their homes’ value this year. In fact, Myers said her county taxes actually went down this year because of the higher homestead exemption, despite her home rising in value.

The higher homestead exemption does not apply to school taxes, however, which make up 60% of property tax bills. The Clarke County School District’s proposed $214 million budget keeps its tax rate the same as last year—18.8 mills. However, CCSD’s tax rate isn’t getting the same attention, with only two speakers appearing before the school board to ask for a reduction at a public hearing May 24.

in April, $3 million from reserve funds, $2 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (half of it currently earmarked for programs for the homeless) and a few

favors more funding for the Athens Tutorial Program and the Council on Aging.

Not everyone agrees that a tax cut is even necessary. Speaking at the May 16

“A lot of people are seeing their assessments go up because of this crazy housing market that, unfortunately, on a local level we’re unable to regulate, and they’re not necessarily going to delineate between the majority of their tax bill that goes to the school district and the approximately one-third that goes to

Gordon Rhoden speaks at a May 23 hearing on the 2024 Athens-Clarke County budget.

SCREENCAP VIA YOUTUBE

Keeping Produce Fresh

HERE’S HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR VEGGIES ARE CRISP AND TASTY

By Erin France news@flagpole.com

Due to life, sometimes that crispy, speckled lettuce head transforms from an aspirational mid-week dinner star to a sad, soggy loser sitting in the compost bin. Do you know where it went wrong? Was the lettuce cooled properly during harvest? Was it stored in the fridge to maximize freshness? Whether you’re harvesting from your own garden or buying from a farmer’s market, here are a few tips to get that produce on your plate instead of thrown out.

DITCH THE HEAT: Harvest in the morning and then dunk tender produce in a cold water bath to protect against rapid rotting. Field

If your crisper isn’t an option, try wrapping your greens in a paper towel or paper bag. This helps absorb drips from the leaves, but it keeps the moisture close to the humidity-loving plant. The close-by moisture keeps its cell-walls strong for a continued crisp crunch. Paper towels placed at the bottom of the plastic, lidded container is another alternative.

heat absorbed by the plant will continue degrading the produce (which continues losing water through respiration) until arrested. This is especially true for leafy greens. Sticking whole heads of lettuce in a cooler isn’t as effective as plunging the whole thing into an ice bath, before shaking off excess water and storing. This also works great for thin-skinned summer squashes, cucumbers and root vegetables as a good way to clean and prep for storage. Ice baths aren’t best for veggies like tomatoes, where a few wet drips could lead to mold. Peppers, eggplants, beans, okra and thick-skinned squashes, normally harvested during the summer, are the least troubled by field heat and can cool down slowly in a fridge.

USE YOUR CRISPER: If you have a decent fridge, the crisper is a good way to keep your veggies fresher. Basically, it’s like sticking them in a tupperware container without having to buy a huge tupperware container. I keep our fridge at 38 degrees, but greens must go in the crisper, or they turn into a saggy, limp mess within days. The crisper helps control the humidity, which needs to be pretty high for edible leaves to remain appetizing.

EAT WITHIN A WEEK: Whether your tomatoes or a nearby farmer’s, make a plan to eat your produce within a week of harvest. Farmers pick veggie varieties based on insect and disease resistance, climate tolerance, price, appearance and (of course) taste. These characteristics can sacrifice shelf stability. Shelf stability and shipping rules most of what chain grocery stores provide and large commercial farms grow. Local farmers sell chanterelle mushrooms and mulberries, but their poor storage and easily bruised fruits make them an inferior choice for commercial agriculture. If you’re buying a product not normally seen on grocery store shelves, that’s a good hint to eat it quickly! But even when the food is in a familiar shape, that local bell pepper wasn’t bred to ripen in transit and then sit on a counter for two weeks. It was bred for local conditions and chosen because it’s delicious when fresh.

ETHYLENE PRODUCTION: Some plants produce ethylene—a naturally occurring gas that can speed ripening and rotting—and some produce is particularly sensitive to ethylene. The trick is to not store the two together. Many common fruits, like apples, pears and bananas, produce a lot of ethylene and can cause veggies like broccoli, cucumbers and watermelons to degrade faster if stored together. You’ll notice yellow spots, bitterness or general signs of rotting. Though some vegetables also produce ethylene, separating veggies and fruit is a good rule of thumb.

ASK AN EXPERT: If you’re still struggling to store and put your produce to use, ask a local farmer or the UGA Extension Office for tips. There are many other ways to freeze, dry, can or pickle extra produce so that it doesn’t go to waste and can be enjoyed in the future. The internet can provide a good jumping-off point for brainstorming, but be sure to check the validity of online sources before taking their advice. f

advice

hey, bonita… Taking Things IRL ADVICE FOR ATHENS’ LOOSE AND LOVELORN

By Bonita Applebum advice@flagpole.com

Hey Bonita, I’ve got a habitual problem of falling into online situationships. I’m currently in one making me doubt myself and what I want. The whole thing [has] brought attention to the fact this is repeat behavior for me, and I don’t know why I keep falling for it. It’s easier for me to make friends online, and I keep up with a lot of people online. That’s never seemed to be a problem, but it is when I keep getting involved in pseudo-relationships online. It’s not a catfish situation. I’ve met them in person before, and they live nearby, but basically none of the relationship is happening IRL . We’re very emotionally involved and connected though, like we talk every single day. She always makes excuses about being busy or feeling anxious about hanging out in person. We talk about everything so I don’t know how to make her any more comfortable. How do I turn this into a normal, healthy, real relationship?

Anon.

Hey Anon, I don’t think you need to look at what’s happening right now as problematic or indicative of some kind of failing on your part. Lots of people thrive in online spaces and forge life-changing relationships over the internet. I met one of my professional references on Livejournal almost 20 years ago. I’ve slept on her floor in

one thing, but I would ask her specifically what makes her nervous about meeting in person. Perhaps she’s realized her feelings for you are platonic and is nervous about disappointing you, and an in-person meeting would definitely force that conversation to happen, so maybe she’s trying to avoid the inevitable. Some people are just shy about the we-should-be-friends talk, and the internet aspect can add another layer of discomfort for some.

Chicago, and Bonita has guested on her sex podcast. I honestly couldn’t count all of the amazing couples I know who met online, whether on an old school BBS forum, a Yahoo! Group (RIP), FetLife or on singles websites like OKCupid. I can think of babies that would not exist if not for Match.com. Love is real, and the people behind all those online profiles are real. You can absolutely get to know the soul of a person through an electronic medium, as if people couldn’t do that back when letter writing was the primary form of long-distance communication. What’s happening right now is definitely unfortunate, but I don’t think these communication issues are inherent to the medium.

There is definitely something your boo isn’t telling you. She’s already met you once but won’t meet you again? Being busy is

There’s also something else to consider about online dating: People lie. We can present an idealized version of ourselves in our dating profiles that might be nothing like the person we actually are. You’ve met this person, so you’re definitely not being catfished, but she may certainly be lying about something else that would impact her availability. Maybe she’s not single and is actively cheating on someone, or worse— maybe she’s a teenager who still lives with guardians. Acting super interested online while refusing to meet speaks to a dishonesty of some sort, and it doesn’t have to be something shocking like infidelity or age. Maybe she really is single and into you and possibly even in love with you, but she’s got crippling social anxiety that she hasn’t told you about yet because she doesn’t want to weird you out. Maybe she uses a mobility aid or some kind of orthotic that partners have responded to poorly in the past. Just ask her about her hesitation and where she sees your relationship going, and be direct about it. No need to pussyfoot with matters of the heart. Ask the question you want to ask with all the kindness and respect that you can muster, and hopefully she’ll respect that and respond in kind.

Y’all know me. I also want to tell you not to be afraid to walk away from situationships that aren’t serving you. If she insists that nothing is wrong but continues to vacillate after your heart-to-heart, I’d recommend that you start looking for a partner whose desires and needs more closely align with your own. f

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

This chard survived a week in the crisper just fine.

ERIN FRANCE

Athens Pride Parade

PRIDE MONTH KICKS OFF

By Jessica Smith arts@flagpole.com

Dedicated to building a more inclusive environment and uplifting marginalized voices, the Athens Pride & Queer Collective has made significant strides over the past year towards its mission of advancing equity, affirmation, diversity and wellness for queer populations in Northeast Georgia. The organization, which was formally established through a merger of Athens Pride and Athens Queer Collective in 2022, supports historically marginalized communities through a variety of events and initiatives focused on education, advocacy and celebration surrounding LGBTQ+ culture. Its inaugural Athens Pride Parade held last summer, which will return to downtown this weekend, was an exciting and joyful celebration that brought together the community.

“The event served as a powerful manifestation of unity, fostering a profound feeling of community and offering a space where individuals could experience love and affirmation,” says board president Danielle Bonanno.

A recent major milestone for the organization was the official launch of a Trans Healthcare Scholarship designed to alleviate financial barriers faced by individuals within the local trans community as they pursue gender-affirming healthcare. Recognizing the challenges of navigating life with extremely limited medical resources available in the region, this new program seeks to address these critical gaps in health care. Within its first year, APQC successfully raised sufficient funds to grant three recipients with scholarships for their gender-affirming surgeries.

“By providing financial support to individuals who face barriers to accessing gender-affirming care, we aim to ensure that transgender individuals can access the health care they need to live authen-

tically,” says Bonanno.

“This scholarship program exemplifies our dedication to addressing the unique challenges faced by the transgender community and fostering a more equitable and affirming society.”

Last weekend at the 40 Watt Club, APQC hosted a drag show called Operation: Transformation! with all proceeds supporting the fund. Applications for the second round of scholarships will open in January, and anyone who has faced barriers in accessing gender-affirming care, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured, are encouraged to apply.

The Trans Healthcare Scholarship is just one of several programs currently underway that support APQC’s mission. Last year, the organization conducted the first-ever LGBTQ community needs assessment in Northeast Georgia, a comprehensive survey that collected invaluable insights to inform future goals and priorities. Currently, the APQC is hoping to establish a physical community space to host gatherings and support group meetings and foster a deeper sense of belonging and empowerment.

The second annual Athens Pride Parade will kick off at the corner of Washington and Hull streets promptly at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 3. The route will turn left onto Clayton Street, left onto College Avenue and right onto Hancock Avenue before culminating at the Classic Center’s 440 Foundry Pavilion. Running until 6 p.m., festivities there will include music by DJ Gregory and Sarah Mootz, a performance by The League of Step, food trucks, kids’

activities and representatives from community resources.

APQC will then join the Athens Burn Consortium for a Post-Parade Pride Dance Party at Little Kings Shuffle Club from 5 p.m.–12 a.m. In addition to belly dancing and fire performance arts, the event includes sets by Very Geary, Selah Samarah, Dick Loverboy, Catte Vest, Typhon and Shakti Sound.

“One aspect that fills me with anticipation is witnessing the tremendous growth of our community’s visibility and support,” says Bonanno. “It’s a powerful feeling to see more and more allies joining us in this important event, marching alongside us and demonstrating their commitment to equality and inclusivity. The increasing presence of organizations, businesses and community members standing in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community is truly inspiring.”

Several other events will be held this weekend in celebration of Pride. On Thursday, June 1 at 11 a.m., the Pride Flag will be raised above City Hall in partnership with the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government. On Friday, June 2 at 9 p.m., APQC will host LOUD: A Pride

Anthem Drag Show at Akademia Brewing Company. In addition to drag performances by Sadé Vidalle, Mama Faux, Lulu Mintaka, Jacqueline Daniels, Cola Fizz, Delerea Dae and Karmella Macchiato, Akademia will release “So Queer, No Fear,” a special fruity ale benefitting APQC.

On June 3 from 3–8 p.m., Terrapin Beer Co. will donate a portion of proceeds from its Love is Love beer to LGBTQ+ organizations. That night at Hendershot’s from 8–11 p.m., Athens Showgirl Cabaret will present Drag For All, an all-ages performance featuring Kellie Divine, Jean Sparx, Alice D, Billy Jean, Kai Hudson and several other entertainers. The weekend will close out with a Pride Tie-Dye Party & Queer Trivia at Athentic Brewing Co. on Sunday, June 4 from 3–7 p.m.

“What I am truly most excited about is the overwhelming sense of love, acceptance, and belonging that permeates the atmosphere of the Pride Parade,” says Bonanno. “It is a moment where we can come together as a community, celebrate our identities, and be surrounded by people who genuinely embrace and support us for who we are.” f

event calendar

Tuesday 30

CLASSES: A Baker’s Dream Machine Happy Hour (Athens Cooks) Ankarsrum representative Ashley McCord will lead a demonstration on how to use its mixer with wine and treats provided. 3 p.m. $50. www.athenscooks.com

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

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

PERFORMANCE: Athens Chautauqua Society Festival of Freedom (ACC Library) Award-winning teacher, performer and researcher Sonny Kelly will present “The Talk” sharing timeless and vital lessons from American history. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www.athenschq.org

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

Wednesday 31

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: Knives Out (Athens Cooks) Hone your knife techniques and learn fundamental cuts with Executive Chef Hunter White. 3 p.m. $50. www.athenscooks.com

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

FILM: The House on Sorority Row (Flicker Theatre & Bar) Screening of the 1982 film about an innocent prank that goes wrong as sorority sisters are stalked and murdered during a graduation party. 7 p.m. FREE! www.flickertheatreandbar.com

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

GAMES: Music Bingo (Athentic Brewing Co.) Win prizes at this music bingo night with host Mari. 7–9:30 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.com

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

PERFORMANCE: Athens Chautauqua Society Festival of Freedom (Clarke County School District) Award-winning teacher, performer and researcher Sonny Kelly will present “Indivisible” sharing timeless and vital lessons from American history. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. athenschq.org

Thursday 1

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: Meet a Death Doula (Athentic Brewing Co.) For those curious about what a death doula does, ask questions and have a discussion about death and dying with Jess Dukes. 6–8 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

KIDSTUFF: The Amazing Scientific Mr. Dodd (Bogart Library) Mr. Dodd will lead a fun science program, compared to Bill Nye The Science Guy and Mr. Wizard. Best for ages 3–10. 3 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

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

PERFORMANCE: Athens Chautauqua Society Festival of Freedom (Morton Theatre) Award-winning teacher, performer and researcher Sonny Kelly will present “The U.S. Colored Soldier” sharing timeless and vital lessons from American history. 6–8 p.m. FREE! www. athenschq.org

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Friday 2

COMEDY: First Friday Comedy (MaiKai Kava Lounge) Miles Bunch hosts a comedy show featuring talents such as Matt Guy, Kid Dynamite and headliner Tim Chirikalov. 7:30 p.m. FREE! www.facebook. com/maikaikavaga

COMEDY: A$$$$CAT (Work.Shop)

Members of Gorgeous George’s Improv League will perform a play from a series of scenarios inspired by guest monologist Mark Taylor. 8 p.m. $5. www.flyingsquidcomedy. com

EVENTS: Dalit Women’s Collective Variety Show (Hendershot’s) The variety show will feature music, dance, poetry and more with a silent auction all in benefit of fundraising for the Dalit Women’s Collective. 7 p.m. $5–10 suggested donation. www.facebook.com/ dwc.e3

FILM: Daphne (Ciné) The screening of LeeAnn Peppers’ animated short scored by Annie Leeth will be followed by solo music performances by each artist. 7:30 p.m. $10. www. athenscine.com

FILM: Creed (Lay Park) Movies By Moonlight presents an outdoor movie showing of Creed with outdoor activities including a boxing demonstration by Strength and Strike Fitness. 8 p.m. FREE! 706613-3800

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: Art & A Movie (Bogart Library) Watch the film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and draw while enjoying popcorn. 4 p.m. FREE! www.athens library.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: Grand Slam (Lay Park) This summertime program includes games, giveaways, guest speakers, life enrichment activities, music, refreshments, sports and more. Registration required. Ages 11–17. 6–9 p.m. FREE! www.accgov.com/ grandslam

PERFORMANCE: LOUD (Akademia Brewing Co.) This Pride Anthem Drag Show is a kick-off to Pride month featuring local drag talent and the release of the fruity ale “So Queer, No Fear.” 9 p.m. $5. www. facebook.com/AthensGAPride

Saturday 3

EVENTS: Fun(d) Fair (Faith Presbyterian Church) The church will be having a car wash, yard sale and bake sale with face painting, hot dogs and games to raise money for its mission trip to Merida, Mexico. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. 706-247-5481

EVENTS: Open House Pottery Sale (Farmington Pottery) Geoff and Lisa Pickett will have a selection of pots of all kinds for house and garden, handmade soaps and botanical skincare products for sale. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. www.pickettpottery.com

EVENTS: Alpaugh’s Farmers Market & Record Sale (2850 Commerce Hwy.) Browse thousands of CDs and vinyls. Cash only. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 706-255-3337

EVENTS: Forest Heights Blueberry Festival (Forest Heights Neighborhood) The annual neighborhood festival raises money for a community blueberry planting project. Activities include a children’s bike rally, cooking competition, garden tours, outdoor concert, food trucks and a silent auction. 9:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. FREE! www.regenerators. earth/festival

EVENTS: Athens Plant Community Swap and Sale (Foxglove Plantbar) Browse various plants from local growers, supplies and check out the plant swap table to see what others have to offer. 12–4 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/athens plantcommunity

EVENTS: Athens Pride Parade (Downtown Athens) Athens Pride and Queer Collective hosts a parade marching through downtown Athens and ending at a Resource Festival featuring nonprofit vendors, food trucks and entertainment. 2–6 p.m. FREE! www.athenspride.org/parade

EVENTS: Pride Celebration (Terrapin Beer Co.) The newly released Love is Love beer sales will donate a portion of proceeds to LGBTQ+ organizations. Pints will be half off.

3–8 p.m. www.terrapinbeer.com

EVENTS: Post-Parade Pride Dance Party (Little Kings Shuffle Club) Enjoy dancing, live music, belly dancing, fire performance arts and more with proceeds benefiting the Athens Pride and Queer Collective.

5 p.m.–12 a.m. www.facebook. com/AthensGAPride

KIDSTUFF: Family Fun Day (ACC Library) Attractions inside and outside of the library include a puppet-building workshop, a puppet show by Lee Bryan, a hands-on car showcase, a Sandy Creek Nature Center Presentation, a photo booth, a petting zoo and more. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org

PERFORMANCE: Ecstatic Dance (Work.Shop) This ceremony of rejuvenation and inspiration is a substance-free and inclusive celebration. 1–2:30 p.m. $10. www. ecstaticdanceathen.wixsite.com/ xstaticdanceathensga

PERFORMANCE: Athens Showgirl Cabaret Drag For All (Hendershot’s) Enjoy a fabulous night of drag fun after the Pride Parade. Ages 12 & under get in free. 8–11 p.m. $5. www.athensshowgirl cabaret.com

Sunday 4

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

CLASSES: Beginner Basics in Watercolor (K.A. Artist Shop) Local artist Lauren Adams will lead a painting class learning about materials, color mixing and other essential tips. 1–4 p.m. $45. www. kaartist.com

EVENTS: Open House Pottery Sale (Farmington Pottery) Geoff and Lisa Pickett will have a selection of pots of all kinds for house and garden, handmade soaps and botanical skincare products for sale. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. www.pickettpottery.com

EVENTS: Wear Orange (Bishop Park) Moms Demand Action calls to end gun violence and recognize survivors with this family event featuring face and nail painting, jewelry making, snacks, the Athens Pop-Up Park, Be SMART, free orange clothing, corn hole, coloring and poster making. 12–2 p.m. FREE! www.act.everytown.org/ event/wear-orange-2023

EVENTS: Pride Tie-Dye Party & Queer Trivia (Athentic Brewing Co.) Bring your own items or purchase Pride merch from Athentic to participate in a tie-dye class (3 p.m.) followed by trivia (5 p.m.). FREE! www.facebook.com/Athens

GAPride

EVENTS: Michi’s Pop-Up (Puma Yu’s) The Mexican-inspired food pop-up will be serving until food runs out. 5–8 p.m. www.instagram. com/michis_ath

FILM: UNSPOKEN (On Stage Playhouse) The encore screening of the award-winning documentary will be followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Stephanie Calabrese. 3 p.m. $15. www.unspoken.film/uga

FILM: The Woman King (Morton Theatre) This historical action drama set in the early 19th century tells the story of an all-female group of warriors who protect the African nation of Dahomey. 3 p.m. FREE! www.mortontheatre.com

KIDSTUFF: Symphonic Story Time (ACC Library) Quintet Athens will introduce listeners to musical instruments and how they work followed by a musical story time performance of Six Italian Stories by Italian Children by Judith Cloud. Best for ages 5–10. 3 p.m. FREE! www.quintetathens.com

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Monday 5

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

COMEDY: Comedy Show (@local. Coffeehouse & Study Lounge)

Miles Bunch hosts a comedy show featuring talents such as Owen Hunt, Lanny Farmer, Kelly Petronis, Phillip Broughton and Rama S. 8:30 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/ local_on_church

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

KIDSTUFF: Monday Funday (Bogart Library) Join Ms. Donna for songs, fingerplays, storytelling and STEAM activities. Ages 3–6 years. Registration suggested. 10 a.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

KIDSTUFF: STEM Baseball (Bogart Library) MLB Players STEM League is a baseball-inspired program that brings to life the energy of the sport through a board game. 5 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary.org/bogart

Tuesday 6

EVENTS: A New Way of Thinking About Entrepreneurship Skills (Lyndon House Arts Center) Brandy Nagel will facilitate this workshop designed for creative entrepreneurs and arts programmers with a focus on business training, networking and best practices. Registration required. 5:30 p.m. FREE! myung. cogan@accgov.com

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

GAMES: Family Trivia (Bogart Library) Test your trivia knowledge around books, literature and libraries. Bring your own device or use one at the library to play online. 6:30 p.m. FREE! www.athenslibrary. org/bogart

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

LECTURES & LIT: Bogart Bookies

Adult Book Club (Bogart Library) Pick up a copy of The Red Lotus by Chris Bohjalian and discuss it with the group. 1–2 p.m. FREE! www. athenslibrary.org/bogart

SPORTS: Classic City Pétanque Club (Lay Park) New players welcome. Scheduled days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 10 a.m. www.athenspetanque.org

Wednesday 7

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

COMEDY: This Is Me Tour (Morton Theatre) This night of comedy and praise features Sunday Best and Stellar Award-winner Tasha Page Lockhart and Travele Judon as seen on Food Network’s “Worst Cooks in America.” 7:30 p.m. $30. www. thisismetour.net

EVENTS: Industry Open House (UGA Trial Gardens) There are 400 annuals, perennials and AllAmerican Selections to share this year with all green industry professionals. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. FREE! ugatrial.hort.uga.edu

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

FILM: Blood Everywhere (Flicker Theatre & Bar) A high-rise apartment populated by models, nightclub dancers and call girls becomes the hunting ground for a black-masked killer in The Case of the Bloody Iris. 7–9 p.m. FREE! www.instagram.com/bloodevery where.athens

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

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

MEETINGS: Hawthorne at Oglethorpe Intersection Improvements (Bishop Park) ACC staff will be on hand to discuss the updated engineering plans for proposed upgrades to the intersection at Hawthorne and Oglethorpe avenues. 5:30 p.m. FREE! 706-613-3440 f

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.

ArtANNUAL CALL FOR ARTISTS (Athens Institute for Contemporary Art: ATHICA) Seeking artists working in any media with cohesive bodies of work to apply for exhibitions at ATHICA or ATHICA@Ciné. Proposals from curators and curatorial teams are also welcome. Deadline June 30. athica.org/updates/soloduo-trio-call

ATHENS 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 (Winterville Community Center) Seeking artists for an upcoming exhibition. Artists and poets can submit up to three JPEG or .doc files by email. Deadline June 7. wacartshows@abby-kacen

CALL FOR ARTISTS (Lyndon House Arts Center) The upcoming exhibition “Rescue: Waste and Redemption” seeks artists who transform industrial byproducts into artworks or craft objects. Artists whose practice involves the use of environmentally conscious processes or materials are encouraged to apply. Fill out online form. Deadline Sept. 20. Exhibition runs Apr. 6–June 1, 2024. www.accgov.com/7345/ Call-for-Artists

CALL FOR EXHIBITION PROPOS-

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

com/6657/Exhibition-Proposal-

Form

JOKERJOKERTV CALL FOR ARTISTS (Online) JOKERJOKERtv is open to ideas and actively accepting proposals for collaboration from visual/musical/video artists and curators living in Athens. Artists worldwide can also submit music videos, short films, skits and ideas to share with a weekly livestream audience. www.jokerjokertv.com/ submit

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 weekly on Instagram (@georgiamuseum) until July 11, when voting for the top eight will shift to in-person. Winner announced Aug. 26. www. georgiamuseum.org

ONLINE POTTERY AUCTION (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Choose from selections from the private collection of Bob and Yukiko Marable. Featured artists include Ron Meyers, Michael Pitts, Michael Simon and Alice Woodruff. Auction runs through June 2, 8 a.m.–June 2, 11:55 p.m. givebutter.com/ MarablePottery

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

Auditions

ARTIFICE (Elberton Arts Center, Elberton) Encore Productions hosts

art around town

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

ATHENS INSTITUTE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART: ATHICA (675 Pulaski St.) Artist-in-ATHICA Mux Blank presents “A Glitch’d Night’s Dream.” During his residency, six events include performances by Mr. Blank (June 10), friends of JOKERJOKERtv (June 16–17) and a three-day livestream spotlighting AthFest performers (June 23–25). The exhibition features a nearly 30-year retrospective of paintings, mixed media and prototype toy sculptures. June 1–30.

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. 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.

EARTH FARE (1689 S. Lumpkin St.) “THIS and THAT” features collages and found object assemblages by Lisa Freeman.

auditions for adults to participate in a comedy production. The audition consists of reading excerpts from the script. Drop-in auditions held June 12–13, 6–8 p.m. Performances held Aug. 25–27 and Sept. 1–3. tking@cityofelberton.net

Classes

BLACKSMITHING CLASSES (Greenhow Handmade Ironworks, Washington) In “Basic Blacksmithing: First Time at the Forge,” students will forge and assemble a wall mount rack with three hooks. June 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $150. “Forge a Throwing Tomahawk” is for experienced students. June 10, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $175. “Forge an Iron Age Battle Spear.” June 17, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $175. “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. greenhowhand made@gmail.com

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

DEDICATED MINDFULNESS PRACTITIONERS (Online) Weekly Zoom meditations are offered every Saturday at 8:30–9:30 a.m. Email for details. richardshoe@gmail.com

HOMEBUYER EDUCATION WORKSHOP (Zoom) Athens Land Trust presents an eight-hour, HUDcertified course for first-time homeowners that covers the home-buying process in Georgia. Pre-registration required. 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 rela-

tionship with difficult thoughts and emotions. Email for the Zoom link. Second Friday of the month, 6–7 p.m. FREE! mfhealy@bellsouth. net

OPEN/COMMUNITY MEDITATION

(Sangha Yoga Studio at Healing Arts Centre) Uma Rose leads a meditation designed to guide participants into stillness and silence. Mondays, 4–5 p.m. Donations encouraged. www.healingarts centre.net

PANTOMIME (Winterville Cultural Center) Learn the art of pantomime in this five-session course. Mondays, June 19–July 17, 9–11 a.m. $20/class. www.wintervillecenter. com

PLEIN AIR PEN & PENCIL (Winterville Cultural Center) Jack Burk leads a five-session class in drawing at various locations in and around Winterville. Wednesdays and Fridays, June 21–July 5, 9–11:30 a.m. $100. www.wintervillecenter. com

PUBLIC DANCE (The Studio Athens)

Beginner Rumba lessons followed by DJ’d waltz, swing, salsa, tango etc. Every fourth Saturday. 7:30–10 p.m. $5 (students), $10 (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

SKETCH WRITING WORKSHOP (work.shop) This six-week course will culminate in a staged reading or performance of student sketches. Begins July 6, 6–8 p.m. $160. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

SUMMER POETRY WORKSHOP (Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation) Heidi Lynn Nilsson leads a creative writing course. Mondays, June 19–July 17, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $165–215. www.ocaf.com

SUMMER SCENE WORKOUT (work. shop) In this series of classes, participants will work on building scenes based in reality, believable

FLICKER THEATRE & BAR (263 W. Washington St.) Artwork by Gary Autry. Through June.

GEORGIA MUSEUM OF ART (90 Carlton St.) “In Dialogue: Henry Ossawa Tanner, Mentor and Muse.” Through June 18. • “Art is a form of freedom” is a collaborative project through which incarcerated women at the Whitworth Women’s Facility selected works for an exhibition and wrote prose and poetry in response to the pieces. Through July 2. • “Decade of Tradition: Highlights from the Larry D. and Brenda A. Thompson Collection.” Through July 3.

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

HENDERSHOT’S (237 Prince Ave.) Nirvinyl Album Art presents “A Brief History of Nirvinyl 2015–2023.” Through late August.

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. 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.

characters, listening and reacting. Begins June 13, 6–8 p.m. $30/ week, $160/six weeks. www.flyingsquidcomedy.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 traumainformed practices. Check website for upcoming classes and programs. www.revolutiontherapyand yoga.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

Help Out

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

SEEKING MENTORS (Athens, GA)

The Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement’s End School to Prison Pipeline Program seeks community members to support and mentor students who are experiencing bullying, have been suspended/ expelled, or need to complete court-ordered service hours. www. aadmovement.org

Kidstuff

ART CLUBS (K.A. Artist Shop) Draw, paint, collage and create during weekly Art Card Club meet-ups. Fridays, 4:30–6 p.m. (pre-teens), 6:30–8 p.m. (teens). Drawing Club for Teens, taught by 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

MASON-SCHARFENSTEIN MUSEUM OF ART (567 Georgia St., Demorest)

“Bud Lee Picture Maker: Photographs from 1967 to 1972” spotlights the Florida-based photojournalist and artist through his work for national publications. North Georgia Arts Tour held June 9–11. Closing reception Aug. 24, 4–6:30 p.m.

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

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

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.

UGA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARIES (300 S. Hull St.) “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.

WINTERVILLE LIBRARY (115 Marigold Ln., Winterville) “Fresh Cut” is a collection of relief prints by Emma Torrence. Through July 1.

“In Dialogue: Henry Ossawa Tanner, Mentor and Muse” is currently on view at the Georgia Museum of Art until June 18.

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.foxfirewoodsand farm.com

KIDS IMPROV WEEKEND (work. shop) During this two-day improv camp, students will learn the fundamentals of improv comedy. Activities include lessons on scene work, games and a graduation performance. For ages 10–14. July 29–30, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $120. www.flyingsquidcomedy.com

OCEAN DISCOVERY CAMP AT UGA (Georgia Center) Campers will brainstorm creative ways to address real world issues in the ocean ecosystems. Day-only or residential overnight options are available. Weekly sessions run June 5–July 17. Check website for dates and to register. $350/day, $1000/residential. www.georgiacenter.uga.edu

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

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.

“Pottery Summer Camp for Teens” is offered for ages 14–17 in weekly sessions running through July 21. $210–260/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.treehousekidand craft.com

SUMMER ROCK CAMPS (Full Moon School of Music, Watkinsville) Camps are available for true beginners to advanced musicians.

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

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

TEEN SOCIAL JUSTICE YOUTH

JOB & TRAVEL SUMMER CAMP (Athens, GA) Ages 13–16 will

participate in professional development, field trips, career mentorship, activism, financial literacy, investment lessons, college preparation and more. Students will be paid $10/hour for 5–10 hours a week.

Program runs June 5–July 29. www.aadmovement.org

WILD EARTH CAMP (Piedmont Preserve) Weekly adventure camps are offered June 5–July 21 in the forest for ages 4–13. Register online. www.wildearthcamp.org

WINTERVILLE CULTURAL CENTER CAMPS (Winterville Cultural Center) In “Summer Art Camp,” children will participate in a variety of activities including printmaking, theater and drama, upcycled art, public art and puppet-making. June 12–16, 1–4 p.m. $125. In “STEAM Robotics Camp,” children will learn software, firmware and hardware for robots using scratch.mit.edu and codecombat.com. Participants must have their own smartphone or iPad. For grades 4–7. July 17–21, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. $125. www.wintervillecenter.com

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

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

SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS (Athens, GA) Athens Downtown SAA offers a message of hope to anyone who suffers from a compulsive sexual behavior. Contact for location. athensdowntownsaa@abby-kacen

SOCIAL ANXIETY SUPPORT

GROUP (Oconee County Library)

Created by and for socially anxious young adults. Meets every other Sunday. Contact for meeting information. Jake@avoidendsnow.org, www.avoidendsnow.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

COVER YOUR LOAD AWARENESS

WEEK (ACC Landfill and Various Locations) Learn more about preventing litter due to uncovered truck loads. Tarps are available at the Solid Waste Department while supplies last. Awareness week runs June 4–11. www.keepathensbeautiful.org

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

PUBLIC POOLS (Multiple Locations)

ACC Leisure Services operates four public pools at Heard Park, Lay Park, Memorial Park and Rocksprings Park. Bishop Park is closed this season for renovations. Pools are currently open through July 30. Check website for hours. www. accgov.com/pools

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.). Wednesday Yoga (5 p.m.) is followed by Meditation and Integration (6 p.m.). Events are free or donation based. www.rabbitholestudios.org/ calendar

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

threats & promises

Panic Wave’s AlternativeModesofSpaceTravel PLUS, MORE MUSIC

NEWS AND GOSSIP

By Gordon Lamb threatsandpromises@flagpole.com

UPDATE: A couple of weeks ago I mentioned that a 7-inch was in the works for 1980s Athens band Banned 37. In a very quick turn of events, this project was put on the backburner, as there’s now officially a 14-song cassette of the group’s recordings planned for release this fall. The tape comes

exists largely in a drape of noise and static while retreating sometimes to reveal interesting drum patterns and snatches of melody. Find each at ericthehat.bandcamp.com.

courtesy of Athens artist Marcel Sletten and his label Primordial Void. That’s all that’s known for now, so keep your ears peeled, and I’ll update this news again when appropriate. Get up to speed by tuning in to soundcloud.com/kennethaguar70, and familiarize yourself with Primordial Void at primordialvoid.bandcamp.com.

WAVE AND SAY HEY: Young Athens group Panic Wave released a four-song EP named Alternative Modes of Space Travel earlier this month. Honestly, it’s more of a demo than anything and showcases the band flexing around a few different styles, albeit all within the pop-rock territory. Close listening reveals some real kernels of gems, and these bode well for the group. Specifically, the at-firstblush semi-bombastic opening song “No Mercy” unfolds itself into a nicely paced tune with a solid chorus. Similarly, the carnival-esque “City of Chaos” rises to its purported drama and succeeds admirably in delivering a decent amount of heft. All in all, an encouraging collection that points to a bright future. Check it out at panicwave1.bandcamp.com.

PARTY’S STILL GOING: Since I last mentioned Eric The Hat/partydead, two more releases have come out. The three-track Delphs, on which Eric Hat is joined by Tim Haley, and the six-track from drape by ben The former establishes itself quite candidly at the halfway point of the 33-minute-long “DELPHADULT.” After weaving through a pleasant but forceful ambient style, the track reduces itself into what sounds like mechanical breath. That is, the breath of a machine. This gives way to its own breakdown before the track eventually comes full circle. Also of note here is the slight nod to the chopped-and-screwed production style on “DELPHCARE.” The latter is by far the more aggressive of these two releases and

BLUES YOU CAN USE: If you missed the first installment of the Rick Fowler Acoustic Band’s residency at Athentic Brewing Co., you’ve still got three more shots and an entire season to make it work. He’ll be bringing the blues back around Thursdays June 1, July 6 and Aug. 3. These are early shows, scheduled for 6:30 p.m., but it wouldn’t hurt to check that time before you head over. Fowler’s resume needs no embellishment nor defense as his work is well known throughout the Southeast, not the least of which for his mighty list of classic collaborations. Also, while his sound is markedly different these days, I’d encourage all you rockers out there to hunt down some tunes from his early 1980s hard rock/heavy metal band Fortnox. It’s totally worth the quest. For all other information, please see facebook.com/athenticbrewing, and check out some tunes on major streaming services and soundcloud.com/rick-fowler-band.

SURPRISE, SURPRISE, SURPRISE: You know that thing about the universe sending you things you didn’t know you needed? Well, the universe approached at least the halfway mark by sending me the new 13-track collection of clear-the-deck tracks from Jackson McLendon named, yes I swear, Downwind From the Perfect Taco. In the album notes he says, “This is a collection of half-baked musical ideas and spontaneous compositions from the past couple of years.” And that may be true. But, even so, as a sketch-

book this is pretty interesting stuff, and lord knows I’ve heard less complete work released as actual albums before. There’s an overall sense of isolation here even when a specific tune itself might be relatively uplifting (“Into The Mud (Now!)”). This moves through several moods while retaining its sense of separation, including narcolepsy (“Name No Name”), futuristic exercise music (“Intermission”), and even something approaching an experimental Nick Drake vibe (“Mangel-wurzel”). Find this at jacksonmclendon.bandcamp.com. f

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

3BR/1BA,1600 sqft. New HVAC, paint, large private yard. $1050/mo, in Crawford, GA, 15 minutes east of Athens. 706-247-1259

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/1BA house w/ loft across from river downtown. Creative space, $1400. Call for more information: 706-202-0533

Find tenants by advertising in the Flagpole Classifieds! Call 706-549-0301.

FOR SALE

MISCELLANEOUS

Alpaugh’s Farmers Market & Record Sale: 1000s of CDs and vinyls. Bring cash!

Call for details: 706-255-

3337. Sat. 6/3, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 2850 Commerce Hwy.

MUSIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

Alpaugh’s Farmers Market & Record Sale: 1000s of CDs and vinyls. Bring cash!

Call for details: 706-255-

3337. Sat. 6/3, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. 2850 Commerce Hwy.

INSTRUCTION

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

Flagpole ♥s our advertisers!

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

MISC. SERVICES

For custom pet portraits contact Julie Alpaugh at 706-255-2018 or on Instagram @juliealpaugh.co. For crochet animals, plants, etc. contact Jenny Alpaugh at jennyalpaugh@gmail.com, Instagram @handmadeby jennya, or handmadeby jennya.square.site. See the ad in this issue for more details!

JOBS

FULL-TIME

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 Classifieds! Call 706-549-0301 or email class@flagpole.com.

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, ability to follow instructions, attention to detail and Tuesday availability required! Previous delivery experience preferred. No calls or walk-ins! Get Flagpole delivered straight to your mailbox! $55 for six months or $100 for one year . Call 706-5490301 or email frontdesk@ flagpole.com.

PART-TIME

Interior design firm Metal + Petal is seeking a Warehouse Associate. Must be positive, motivated, organized, honest, and kind. Must be able to lift very heavy things safely, and move furniture. Competitive pay and a great team environment. Email maggie@ metalandpetal.com

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. Make your own schedule and work independently with 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.

Jacob Morris’ Slow Funeral

HYPNOTIC EP ASKING EXISTENTIAL QUESTIONS

By Sam Lipkin editorial@flagpole.com

Before moving near Durham, NC, cellist, vocalist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Morris spent many formative years establishing himself as a musician in the Athens community. Even now he keeps one foot solidly planted in the Classic City, with a full schedule of Athens shows slated for the month of June leading up to his Slow Funeral EP release June 23.

HOW

by Margie E. Burke

Just as Morris aims to write songs open for interpretation but based on real experiences and feelings, the project title also carries a string of meanings. “You know, you pass someone’s house, and they’ve got the sign ‘slow funeral’ up. So it’s like free advertisement for the record,” Morris laughs. But there’s also a deeper side to the slowpaced psych-folk songs. Morris notes that the track “Stoney” was partly about his grandmother passing, and the project as a whole has taken two years to launch—and it almost didn’t.

“I had kind of forgotten about it because I got caught up in my work life,” says Morris. “But my friend Al Daglis, who played drums on it and helped me mix it, he’s like, ‘Dude, we got to do something with this…all it needs is fresh vocal tracks.’ We were going to put it out for free on Bandcamp.”

Morris happened to be playing a show with Haunted Shed, of which he is an original and current member, when George Fontaine Sr. of New West Records overheard him talking about the EP. Fontaine took an interest, and after hearing the project, helped set the release through New West’s subsidiary Strolling Bones Records. From its making to its release, Slow Funeral maintains Morris’ deep Athens roots. The entire EP was recorded live over a weekend by John Spiegel (Immaterial Possession, Cult of Riggonia) at Studio 1093 on Boulevard. Right before Morris and his wife planned to move to North Carolina, where she had gotten a teaching job, someone nudged Morris to check out Studio 1093 right next to his house. Spiegel agreed to record Morris’ project after hours, so they set everything up on a Friday, came in at 11 p.m. each night, then broke everything down that Sunday. John Fernandes and Thomas Valadez, in addition to Daglis, backed Morris and set out to “see what happened.”

The result was six thoughtful and trancelike tracks that approach heavy topics while keeping joy and beauty within reach. The dreamy, soft song “Indivisibility” remains the most raw from the sessions, with little editing and the original live vocals in tact. Morris explains that it’s a “love song to myself,” in a sense of saying, “It’s okay to be you, man.” However, the light and often twinkling sound that ties the EP together sometimes masks more somber commentary.

The lead single “Lister” is an anti-war song named after the Spanish Civil War general Enrique Líster. After watching a documentary on the topic that framed Líster as being on “the good side,” Morris decided to dig further. Unsurprisingly, as war goes, many atrocities were committed by both sides during the war. For Morris, this brought up the question of why, as humans, do we continue such destructive cycles and the evaluation of war as an indus -

try. The original song was far longer, but Morris decided to make it shorter and more vague to dampen what was already a very heavy topic.

“The chorus is kind of like, why do we value material possessions more than human and Earth life?” says Morris. “My job right now is working at a veterans disability clinic. I get to see these people who have all these bad problems from the effects of surviving.”

Ahead of the EP’s official release, locals can catch a preview on June 6 at Hendershot’s where Morris will be performing under his name with a seven-piece band. Also performing this night is Haunted Shed, featuring Morris on

bass. The whole event kicks off Haunted Shed’s month-long Tuesday residency at Hendershot’s for the month of June. Although this isn’t the first time Morris will be playing with multiple acts on one bill, he jokes that it’s different now than when he was younger. The accomplished musician has a history of playing with artists such as Vic Chesnutt, Ham 1, Liz Durrett, Madeline Adams and Patterson Hood of the Drive-By Truckers.

“We did this Liz Durrett/Ham 1/Vic Chesnutt tour, and I played three sets in a row. At the time I was younger, so I guess I could keep 70 songs perfectly arranged in my head, right? But now I need a whole bunch of notes.”

Morris will be playing another set billed under his name as part of the AthFest club crawl on June 24 at 10 p.m. on the Georgia Theatre rooftop. He will be playing the freshly released Slow Funeral through in its entirety that night, giving you just enough time to give it a preliminary listen or two and digest at least one layer of its content.

“The album’s like a glacier,” says Morris. “But it’s in reverse, so it starts out falling off.” f

WHO: Haunted Shed, Jacob Morris

WHERE: Hendershot’s

WHEN: Tuesday, June 6, 7 p m

HOW MUCH: $10 suggested donation

live music calendar

Tuesday 30

Buvez

8 p.m. www.facebook.com/buvez athens

EUGENE CHADBOURNE AND JIM

MCHUGH McHugh (Dark Meat, Sunwatchers) joins Greensboro, NC-based improvisor, songwriter and protest singer Chadbourne for a set of country/noise brilliance.

SHANE PARISH AND THE

2/3 CONSENSUS Master guitarist Shane Parish is joined by Ahleuchatistas bandmate Danny Piechocki.

REAL WOW Weirdo indie/art/ noise rock blasted from the past to the future.

Ciné

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

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

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.

Wednesday 31

Creature Comforts Brewery

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

Porterhouse Grill

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

JAZZ NIGHT Longest running jazz gig in Athens captained by drummer Mason Davis and featuring a rotating cast of familiar faces performing American songbook, bossa nova classics and crossover hits.

Thursday 1

@local. Coffeehouse & Study Lounge

9–11 p.m. bookinglivelocalmusic@ gmail.com

OPEN MIC Held every Thursday.

Athentic Brewing Co.

Blues and Brews Residency. 6–8:30 p.m. www.athenticbrewing.com

RICK FOWLER ACOUSTIC BAND Original, guitar-driven local bluesrock group.

Nowhere Bar

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

NowhereBar Athens

HUGHES TAYLOR Putting his own spin on modern blues with echoes of Hendrix, Stax and Southern rock. Southern Brewing Co.

6–10 p.m. www.sobrewco.com

KARAOKE NIGHT Every Thursday evening.

Friday 2

@local. Coffeehouse & Study Lounge

9 p.m. bookinglivelocalmusic@ gmail.com

NICK BRADFIELD Owner of Rabbit Hole Studios and member of White Rabbit Collective and Dr. Trance.

ANNIE LEETH Local producer and violinist loops drums, synths and strings.

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

ROSIE & THE RATDOGS Athens heavy rock.

WYNDRIDER Stoner doom from the mountains of East Tennessee.

GHOUL HAND New local metal band influenced by the mysterious and macabre.

SARAH MOOTZ Indie pop and rock artist with a lot of soul.

Bishop Park

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

JASON ELDER Multiinstrumentalist playing a variety of original compositions. (8 a.m.)

HONEY AND B Guitar and keys duo doing covers and originals. (10 a.m.)

DIXIELAND FIVE Five-piece Dixieland jazz band.

Little Kings Shuffle Club

5 p.m.–12 a.m. www.athenspride.org

POST-PARADE PRIDE DANCE

PARTY Athens Pride & Queer Collective and the Athens Burn Consortium host a party with belly dancing, fire performances and sets by Very Geary, Selah Samarah, Dick Loverboy, Catte Vest, Typhon and Shakti Sound.

Nowhere Bar

7 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show).

$10. www.facebook.com/Nowhere

BarAthens

THE SHUT-UPS This long running, guitar driven new wave band’s Kaufmanesque presentation features frontman Don Condescending, Ben Spraker, Jason NeSmith and former Flagpole music editor Ballard Lesemann. Their latest album is titled The Shut-Ups Are Girls Singing Songs, which the band calls “a comprehensive exploration of the female perspective.”

DEVILS OF THE NEW FRONTIER

Flicker Theatre & Bar

8 p.m. (sign-ups). FREE! www.flicker theatreandbar.com

FLICKER OPEN MIC Share something you’ve been working on, or swing by to see a variety of acts.

Hendershot’s

7 p.m. $10 suggested. www.hendershotsathens.com

HAUNTED SHED Local band led by Etienne de Rocher and featuring members of Kenosha Kid and The Glands. Haunted Shed’s June residency is part of Hendershot’s Tuesday No Phone Party.

JACOB MORRIS Former Athenian and multi-instrumentalist (Haunted Shed, Vic Chesnutt, Ham1) performing songs off of his upcoming EP, Slow Funeral.

Red Line Athens

7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (show). $5. www.instagram.com/redline_athens

GODSEYES Long Island hardcore with a touch a math.

Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture

8 p.m. $20–30. www.marigold auditorium.com

CHI-TOWN TRANSIT AUTHORITY

Eight-piece tribute band performs four decades of hits by Chicago.

Nowhere Bar

8 p.m. (doors), 9:30 p.m. (show). www.facebook.com/NowhereBar

Athens

THE LADIES OF… Featuring singer James Hall, this Atlantabased band blends elements of rock and roll, glam and pop.

FIVE EIGHT Legendary Athens

Flicker Theatre & Bar

Shadebeast Presents. 9 p.m. $12. www.flickertheatreandbar.com

HUSK Athens-based heavy metal band with Southern and sludge influences.

DAMNED TO EARTH Southern sludge band from Savannah.

MEAN GREEN New three-piece stoner doom band from Boone, NC.

Forest Heights

Neighborhood

Forest Heights Blueberry Festival: Blueberry Jam. 5:30–9:30 p.m. FREE! regenerators.earth/festival

OVERNIGHT ANGELS Dave Lee

The first-ever show for Steven Chambliss’ fist pumpin’ power pop trio with Andy Pope and Brandon McDearis.

The World Famous

3 p.m. FREE! www.facebook.com/the worldfamousathens

ANDERS THOMSEN TRIO

Renowned guitarist and Americana artist performing rootsy Western swing-influenced honky-tonk rock and roll.

FLOYD WEAVER Talented local guitarist of The Original Splitz Band and After Hourz Band.

WILEY “CHIP” MCKENZIE Longtime local singer-songwriter per-

NINEVEH’S GARDEN Progressive metal/jazz fusion from Athens. ATTEST Originally formed in 2008, the group took a long hiatus before returning with a more refined hardcore punk sound.

Wednesday 7

Athentic Brewing Co.

7–9:30 p.m. FREE! www.athentic brewing.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.

Snõõper will perform at the 40 Watt Club on Friday, June 2.

23rd Annual Hot Corner Celebration & Soul Food Feast

HOT CORNER FESTIVAL SATURDAY, JUNE 10TH - LIVE MUSIC AND EVENTS

Kids’ Corner • Vendors • Stage Performances • Award Ceremony at 4:45 pm • Car & Bike Show BBQ Cook-o • Chess & Checkers Competition • Spades Competition • Scholarship Winner announced 50/50 Ra e for scholarships • Voter Registration

MASTERS AND MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES:

Lady B, Pastor Clarence Smith and Mr. Montu Miller

PERFORMANCES BY

Thursday Night: Aleck Stephens & Broderick Flanigan, Marcel Mincey, and Black Nerd Ninja. Friday Night: Morton Chapel, New Grove Baptist Church, Thankful Baptist Church, Waggoner’s Grove Baptist Church. Saturday: After Hourz Band, Alfred Banks, Ant Da Ripper, Arson. Jordan Tate, AwesomeNdynamic, Billy D. Brell/Talented Mr. Winfrey, Brother’s N Christ, Clarke Central Honor Strings, DK, Eli Eternal, Kaliah Hearts, Mack2Tone, Miriam, Molly Tu Hott, Mr. White, Mula Meech, MYM (Mentoring Young Men), Narlie Wilson, Only1Riggs, OvaDeTop, Pit Masters, Sandra “Candy” Morgan, Shaunice, The Woke Creator, Tonya, Wim Tapley & The Cannons

SPONSORS

Athens Downtown Development Authority, Athens Banner Herald, ATHFactor, Athens Transit, Brown’s Barber Shop, Bennie Roberson, CAT Sporty Marketing Group, Cine Theater, Destined Inc., Charles Worthy, First AME Church, 40 Watt Club, Little Kings, Live Wire Athens, MEU Radio, NAACP Clarke County #5180, Manhattan, Morris Brown College Athens Alumni Chapter, Peach State Credit Union, Sige Burden II, WXAG 92.7FM/1470 AM Radio, UGA Richard B. Russell Library, UGA Special Collections, Wilson’s Barber Shop, World Famous, Inc., WYZI 95.9 FM The Beat of Athens

FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

Mr. Homer Wilson, Organizer 706-543-2080, Dr. T (Tawana Mattox), Chairperson 706-461-6678

Committee Members: Eric Bolton, Richard Cornelius, Montu Miller, Bennie Roberson, Barbara “Lady B” Sims, Pastor Clarence Smith, Susan Smith, Jackie Wilson

hotcornerath@gmail.com www.hotcornerathens.weebly.com