Good morning, Athens.

Athens-Clarke County's Howard Park is set to get nearly $3.5 million for a community center expansion.

The project, led by Senator Ossoff & supported by both parties, will boost recreational programs for local youth.

This past week, Athens held an affordable housing rally at City Hall on Tuesday, April 7, a mayoral debate at UGA Chapel on Thursday, April 9 and a fashion show at the Georgia Museum of Art on Friday, April 10 + other events engaged locals.

Advance Auto Parts will host its 'Cars & Coffee' event on April 18 at its new store on 1035 Hull Road in Athens.

YouTube hosts Ben Thorn & Ben Lin will join from 9 a.m. to noon, offering coffee & donuts and car displays to celebrate the fourth store opening.

Ace Hardware in Athens is holding its Spring Savings event today, offering discounts on outdoor power tools and furniture such as (up to $400 off select EGO mowers) to help residents prep their yards before vacation season.

UGA researchers are testing MXene-coated fabrics that track vital signs and prevent bacteria (using antimicrobial properties) while harvesting solar power to charge devices; the study, published today in ACS Omega, also examines ways to improve durability and sustainability for future health care and fitness use.

The Athens chapter of the Latin American Motorcycle Club will sponsor a blood drive for the American Red Cross on April 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the donation center near Academy Sports on Atlanta Highway, and club president Efren Ayak said members are promoting the event via social media & word of mouth.

Georgia baseball lost its first SEC series to Florida on April 13 in Athens and dropped to No. 5 in the USA TODAY coaches poll — the Bulldogs will play a home game today against East Tennessee State before starting a series at No. 17 Arkansas on Thursday.

The UGA women's tennis team defeated Mississippi State 4-0 at Dan Magill Tennis Complex in Athens on Saturday, April 11.

JUMP - An Evening with America's Van Halen Tribute

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — $TBA — Experience the surprise of youthful energy paired with classic Van Halen hits to rock your night away.

The SteelDrivers Live

7:30-8:30 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — Cost Info not provided — Experience the unique sound of bluegrass soul blended with country and blues from a Grammy-winning band.

American Aquarium Live in Athens

7-11 p.m. — Live Wire Athens — $20 adv, $25 Day of Show — Experience the soulful tunes and good vibes of American Aquarium.

Co-bill with Gov't Mule and Larkin Poe

7-10 p.m. — The Classic Center — Tickets available — Experience a night of blues-inspired rock with two iconic bands live on stage.

Arcy Drive Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — $44 each — Enjoy a lively performance from Arcy Drive in a vibrant local venue.

CAAMP Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Classic Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of enchanting melodies from CAAMP in Athens.

United We Dance

8-9 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience a genre-blending journey through the best of electronic music in one unforgettable night.

Melt Live at Georgia Theatre

7:30-8:30 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — Ticketed — Experience the explosive pop/rock sounds of Melt with tight musicianship and dynamic performances in a beloved local venue.

Soulja Boy Concert

8-9 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — $69/ea — Experience the iconic vibes of Soulja Boy live in concert.

Friday Night Dance Party: West Coast Swing

7-10:30 p.m. — Dance Building, 1030 W Green St, Athens, GA — $3 for students, $5 for non-students — Celebrate the semester's end with an evening of dance and a free lesson.