Good morning, Athens.

Linda Lloyd, a longtime community organizer who worked with local groups (including Occupy Athens and the Economic Justice Coalition), passed away, marking a significant loss for Athens and its civic spirit.

Kimberly Zygmant has been appointed as the new Leisure Services Director by ACCGov Manager Bob Cowell, effective May 26, 2026.

She brings extensive parks and recreation experience from Layton City, Utah (where she managed community facilities and events) to the county.

Athens Transit will adjust service times starting June 4.

Routes 12 and 14 will begin at 6:45 a.m. every 30 minutes and Route 22 will start 30 minutes earlier at 5:45 a.m., with updated schedules available this week.

A new 61,000 sqft Athens Athletic Club is under construction on Plaza Parkway near Costco at the Oconee Connector, offering a 10,000 sqft fitness center, outdoor pickleball courts, a pool, and spa amenities.

Limited memberships will be available online with an expected opening by spring.

A UGA study finds that military youth need support from both parents and peers for better mental health.

The research recommends joining extracurricular activities (to build positive role models) that help these youth cope with deployments and frequent moves.

Variety Mart in Athens offers one of the best lunch counters, serving pupusas, cheesesteaks + other authentic dishes for local diners seeking a satisfying meal.

The World Famous serves its standout double-stack cheeseburger (messy, cheesy, and paired with a cold Cheerwine), making it a local favorite for Athens food lovers.

Coach Kirby Smart said the 12-team playoff format creates long breaks that hurt teams, noting Georgia's recent Sugar Bowl losses to Notre Dame and Ole Miss and urging a shorter gap to keep football in constant motion.

Cosmic Charlie Concert

8-11 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — Concert tickets available — Experience a lively performance by Cosmic Charlie in the heart of Athens.

Sips & Salads Cooking Class

7-9 p.m. — The Table @ Athens Cooks — $75 — Experience a culinary night of crafting salads paired with wines alongside fellow food enthusiasts.

Wymberly Live at Nowhere Bar

7 p.m. — Nowhere Bar — Check for admission details — Experience the Savannah band Wymberly as they bring their sound to Athens.

The Amazing Acro-Cats' Meowloween Performance

2-4 p.m. — Morton Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience amazing cats performing tricks followed by the unique all-cat band Tuna and the Rock Cats.

Around the World Cooking Challenge Summer Camp for Junior Chefs

9 a.m.-12 p.m. — The Table @ Athens Cooks — $325 — Aspiring young chefs explore global cuisines and sharpen their culinary skills over four fun-filled days.

The Ultimate Doors Tribute Concert

10 AM – 9 PM — Georgia Theatre — Tickets available March 13th — Experience an authentic journey back to the era of The Doors with this celebrated tribute band.

KACCB Litter League Greenway Cleanup

9:30-11:00 a.m. — Dudley Park — Free entry — Join the community in an effort to clean up the Greenway and protect the local environment.

CU Management School (SRCUS)

All Day — University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel — Special Pricing Available — Earn your Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) designation at this premier management school.

Rick Fowler Acoustic Band Blues & Brews Residency

6-8:30 p.m. — Athentic Brewing Company — $5 entry — Enjoy a night of blues rock with the Rick Fowler Acoustic Band in a cozy taproom atmosphere.

Of Montreal Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — $ — Experience the vibrant mix of glam rock and psychedelia from of Montreal in an electrifying live show.