Good morning, Athens.

Goodwill of North Georgia received a $700,000 grant to launch its new LifeLaunch: Growth Opportunities 4 Program that will train at least 85 Athens-area young adults with criminal histories in welding, supply chain management, and customer service.

Vice President Jenny Taylor said the program will also offer wraparound services—bus passes, gas cards, and childcare—to help participants overcome employment barriers.

The new East Athens Kroger Marketplace at 2301 College Station Road opened its doors on April 30 with a ribbon cutting that drew hundreds, where Mayor Kelly Girtz and Kroger executives celebrated the early launch.

The 116,274-square-foot store replaces the old location, retains its previous workers, and will add 100 to 200 new jobs while showcasing expanded food, clothing, and University of Georgia merchandise sections—an upgrade for local shoppers.

On April 25 at 8:32 p.m., two pedestrians died when a driver struck them near Gaines School Road and Lexington Road, and the driver was arrested—he faces charges for vehicular homicide and failure to yield, marking the fifth fatal crash in Athens this year.

A 21-year-old Marietta resident was arrested on April 17 after a police officer used a DragonEye Speed Lidar device to record his 2020 Porsche Tatcan speeding at 111 mph on the Athens Perimeter— the stop happened at the College Station Road exit ramp and his passenger drove away with the car.

The UGA School of Medicine has hired key faculty and set plans for a 92,000‑square‑foot building after regent approval to award the Doctor of Medicine degree—matching a $50 million state investment with private funds.

The school has recruited top experts to lead admissions, research, and academic efforts as it works to improve health care and create jobs.

On May 8, the Athens-Clarke County Planning Department and Urban3 will host a free public presentation on the economic impact of development at Clarke Central High School starting at 6:00 p.m.—a second session for the business community is scheduled from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at 1055 Barber Street.

Sketch Comedy Graduation Show

8-10 p.m. — Flying Squid Comedy — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter with original sketches performed by Athens' funniest talents.

Seussical Jr.

7-8:30 p.m. — Morton Theatre — $12 — Experience a whimsical musical adventure with the Studio Athens featuring beloved Dr. Seuss characters.

Winterville Marigold Festival

7:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. — Pittard Park — Free entry — Celebrate spring with a 10K race, parade, auto show, live music, and fun activities for all ages.

Solar-Powered Generator with Boyscoutmarie and We Wiggle Dolls

7:30-11 p.m. — work.shop — Check website for ticket prices — Experience a synesthetic live music and puppetry collaboration that illuminates the magic of sound and light.

Health Live at Georgia Theatre

7:30 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — $26.50+ — Experience the unique mathy indie rock sounds of Health, blending tribal beats and aggressive melodies.

Open Mic Improv

7-8:30 p.m. — Flying Squid Comedy — Free entry — Watch standup comedians and improvisers turn jokes into laughter and lively performances.

Uncured Live in Concert

5:30-8:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — Ticket purchase required — Experience an electrifying performance by Uncured in the heart of Athens.

Evening with EXTC featuring Terry Chambers & Friends

7:30-10 p.m. — The Foundry — $20-$25 — Experience classic XTC tunes live with legendary drummer Terry Chambers and his band EXTC.

JJ Grey & Mofro with The Marshall Tucker Band

7:15 p.m. — The Classic Center — $55- $126.25 — Experience two legendary bands sharing the stage on a Southern-themed night of music.

Bad Moon Riders Tribute Show

7-9:30 p.m. — Marigold Auditorium for Arts and Culture — Cost info not provided — Experience the ultimate tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival with all their iconic hits live on stage.

Oconee County Mini Farm Retreat

South Oconee Home ~ 5 BR 3.5 BA ~ 16.38 acres with fencing ~ 6-stall barn + pole barn ~ 2-car attached garage ~ Pool ~ Outdoor Pavilion with kitchen ~ 3-car detached garage with 1 BR 1 BA