Good morning, Athens.

A new cocktail lounge called Cura opened in downtown Athens at 271 West Hancock Ave behind Creature Comforts brewery and serves handcrafted cocktails made with house-distilled rum and gin plus sourced vodka and bourbon.

The bar is open Thursday through Saturday (5 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and aims to merge classic cocktail culture with fresh, innovative tastes.

Athens native Michael L Thurmond released a book on July 12th that reveals how James Oglethorpe’s friendships with two formerly enslaved Black men may have shaped his anti-slavery views — a hidden part of Georgia’s founding — and the work has sparked local debate on its relevance to today’s leadership.

On July 1, the Athens Regional Library System launched the Baby’s First Book initiative by delivering 250 early literacy tote bags at Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center that contained a board book, a teddy bear, literacy tips, and information on infant programs.

The library system will donate 1,000 bags to new families & use their feedback to pursue additional funding as the program continues.

Athens Technical College's SkillsUSA Chapter earned eight medals in four competitions at the National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta from June 23rd to 27th—its students faced more than 6,800 competitors from across the nation.

Medalists—including silver winner Maddy McKeel and bronze winners—helped ATC tie with Wiregrass Georgia Technical College as one of the top technical schools in the state.

Robert Cowell, the sole finalist for the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government manager role, faces two lawsuits accusing him of creating a toxic work environment during his time as city manager in Roanoke.

The selection committee will review his appointment at a special session on July 15, and if approved, he will start on July 28.

Twenty-four states have legalized recreational marijuana while Georgia still prohibits adult use and allows only low-THC oil for medical purposes.

In Georgia, possession for non-medical use is punishable by fines and possible jail time—reflecting the state's strict policy.

On Saturday, July 12, Georgia football secured commitments from five-star tight end Kaiden Prothro of Bowdon and four-star safety Tyriq Green of Buford—raising its 2026 recruiting class to 29 players.

Athens Restaurant Week

Various times — Restaurants around Athens — Special pricing — Indulge in delicious prix fixe meals and local culinary delights during this week-long food celebration.

34th IAEE Southeastern Classic

8 AM - 12 PM — The Classic Center — $200-$650 — Celebrate 34 years of networking and education in the events industry with industry experts.

Udder Reunion Show

7-9:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — $10 — The iconic heavy rock band returns for a record release show featuring local favorites.

Baking from Books

6-8 p.m. — Oconee County Library — Free entry — Create delicious treats inspired by classic literature for grades 6-12.

Nick Smith - New South Tour

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Georgia Theatre — $35+ — Experience a high-octane performance by Nashville's rising country star with a fresh take on modern Southern sound.

Athens Food Truck Event

7-8:30 a.m. — Hilsman Middle School — Free entry — Distributing 30,000 lbs of food to support those in need in the Athens community.

80s Night with Atlanta Vice

8:00–10:30 p.m. — The Foundry — Tickets available — Atlanta Vice returns to jam with the best tunes from the 80s!

Classic City Sprint, Duathlon and Aquabike

7 AM – 2 PM — Sandy Creek Park — Registration fee required — Compete in swim, bike, and run events tailored for athletes of all levels.