Marietta native Mark Kelso will offer a concert of uplifting piano music and songs 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, at ARTS/West in Athens.

In Jewish/Christian tradition, the word Bethesda refers to a pool of healing that served as the desired destination for people of the Holy Land traveling for weeks or months with their crippled loved ones in tow in hopes of experiencing the pool's healing powers.

The Appalachian Hell Betties roller-derby team will be serving up some wallops for those brave enough to run from the ladies on wheels this Saturday for their first ever "Rolling of the Bulls."

The Dairy Barn Arts Center this weekend is opening Quilt National '13, the 18^th biennial juried exhibition of innovative art quilts. During its public run May 25 through Sept. 2, visitors will see an eclectic collection of never-before-exhibited works from talented fiber artists representing 27 states and seven foreign countries.

Photography has given a voice to the artists involved in the Athens Photographic Project, and their hard work is on display this Friday evening in an exhibition titled "Healing Vision."

The gymnasium of the Athens Community Center buzzed with talk of all things sci-fi Saturday. At Ratha Con, the second annual such comic book/sci-fi/fantasy convention held in Athens, vendors from in and out of Athens sold merchandise from popular movies such as "Star Wars" and even ongoing TV shows (AMC's "The Walking Dead") while others shared advice about everything from artwork to weapons to storylines.

ARTS/West in Athens this Saturday is presenting the second Annual Ratha Con, Athens' own Comic and Sci-Fi/Fantasy Convention, with special guest presenters, artists and sellers.

Ever been surprised to see an old friend out of the blue? Of course. Well, how about having your wife you thought was dead reappear? The ABC Players bring a farce showcasing that bizarre scenario to Stuart's Opera House this Thursday through Sunday.

This Saturday I'll be revisiting my misspent rock 'n roll youth at the Fur Peace Ranch in Meigs County. An old friend (we'll call him "Tom" since that's his name) and I will be attending the sold-out Glass Harp show.

Stuart's Opera House in Nelsonville welcomes acclaimed singer/songwriter Bill Callahan this Friday, May 3, at 8 p.m. for a special backstage show.