Good morning, Athens.

Georgia retailers are launching early Black Friday deals with discounts starting from Walmart on Nov.

14 and Macy’s on Nov. 23, leading up to the main sale on Nov. 28. Many chains have set multiple discount windows—Target and JCPenney among them—and shoppers should check both in-store and online schedules as most stores will be closed on Thanksgiving.

Athens had a busy week as UGA sports teams won in baseball, basketball and hockey against West Georgia, Bellarmine, and Michigan State — while downtown events featured a chess-a-thon, an art market for students at Lamar Dodd, and a fall runway show by the Fashion Design Student Association.

US Senators reached a deal to end the 40-day government shutdown by passing a continuing resolution to fund government operations through January; both Georgia senators voted against the agreement.

In the coming weeks, the Senate will vote on extending healthcare subsidies as Senator Ossoff warned that without the extension over one million Georgians may see their insurance costs double—while the state will issue partial SNAP payments of up to 65% of benefits today.

Health inspectors in Athens reported that Bojangles, a fast-food restaurant, scored 84 after employees did not use proper hair restraints—violations were corrected during inspection while many other eateries earned perfect or high marks.

UGA players and coaches dedicated their win against Mississippi State to honoring Kimberly Allen—a beloved facility worker who died at her Athens home on November 5 and was remembered for her positive energy.

Georgia football is giving more playing time to true freshmen as the season winds down — coach Kirby Smart said injuries and extra practice reps led to more snaps for inside linebacker Zayden Walker, tight end Elyiss Williams and wide receiver Landon Roldan, who all played heavily in the November 8 win at Mississippi State. The team will rely on these players in upcoming tough SEC games, including the Texas matchup on Saturday.

Georgia QB Gunner Stockton spoke with reporters after the Bulldogs won 41-21 against Mississippi State on Nov.

8. He explained his key plays as the team builds momentum for upcoming games.

The University of Georgia men's basketball team defeated Morehead State 120-81—playing at Stegeman Coliseum in Athens on Nov.

9.

Georgia coach Kirby Smart said Lawson Luckie is recovering after a head hit on Nov.

8 and is expected to turn quickly — Drew Bobo, who suffered a finger laceration, is bandaged and ready to practice as Georgia prepares for Texas on Nov. 15.

The Droptines Live

7-9:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — Tickets required — Experience the rich storytelling and versatile melodies of alternative country band The Droptines.

Ax and the Hatchetmen Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — $40-$134 — Catch Ax and the Hatchetmen live for a night of high-energy music in Athens.

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Classic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an enchanting mix of Rock & Metal anthems performed by a classical ensemble in a magical candlelit setting.

Flatline Drive Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — $10 — Enjoy a lively mix of country, rock, and indie music from local bands.

Campus Nights: Josiah Queen & Hulvey Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Classic Center — Tickets required — Experience powerful worship and hip-hop praise with rising artists captivating college students.

Northeast Georgia Livestock Auction

11:00 AM – 12:59 AM — Northeast Georgia Livestock, LLC — Free entry — Experience the thrill of real-time livestock auctions and enjoy a unique online viewing experience.

JD Graham & Gabe Lee Performance

8:00 – 10:30 p.m. — The Rialto Club — $15 adv, $20 Day of Show — Enjoy an exciting cobill featuring soulful performances by JD Graham and Gabe Lee.

Yacht Rock Schooner: A Tribute to Steely Dan

7-8:30 p.m. — The Foundry — $20 adv ($25 door) — Experience a smooth sailing night with Yacht Rock Schooner performing Steely Dan classics and favorite yacht rock tunes.

Charlotte 49ers at Georgia Bulldogs Football

12:45-2:15 p.m. — Sanford Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate game day in Athens with passionate fans and the Redcoat Marching Band energizing the crowd.

A Tribute to The Band

7-8:30 p.m. — The Foundry — Fundraiser for Food Bank of Northeast Georgia — Celebrate the spirit of community with an evening of legendary music and local songwriters.