Good morning, Athens.

Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services is hosting MLK Day of Service on Monday, Jan.

19 at Lay Park Gymnasium. The event starts at 8:30 a.m. with free t-shirts for the first 400 registrants, followed by service projects from 10 a.m. to noon; online sign-up closes at noon on Jan. 16.

The 2025 Georgia Bulldogs holiday gift guide offers Dawgs fans ideas including custom jerseys, vintage polos, and sneakers (featuring picks from Fanatics, Rhoback and Peter Millar) now to boost game-day spirit in Athens.

Social media influencer Justin Brown visited Twin Cookz' studio yesterday to explore one of his favorite restaurants while sharing his culinary adventures with a large following (his visit ties into an ongoing series of local dining reviews).

Board members from Clarke County School District plan to apply for a five-year charter renewal & the board learned on Dec.

11 that the application, due in late 2026, will take about a year to complete as enrollment doubled at Athens Community Career Academy under state waivers.

Penn Collins, known for making silly hats that lift the spirits of cancer patients, was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year; he began his hat-making work six years ago to brighten lives in our community.

Braveheart Bulliez Rescue brought three puppies for adoption on Monday, Dec.

22, giving Athens pet lovers a fresh chance to welcome a new friend (contact the rescue for details).

On Monday, Dec. 22, UGA approved athletic director Josh Brooks’ contract extension until June 30, 2031 which will boost his base salary by 125,000 dollars per year and raise his bonus cap to 400,000 dollars; he will remain below many SEC peers as he leads a successful sports program.

Pee Dee IceCats vs. Athens Rock Lobsters

7:05-8:35 p.m. — The Classic Center — Check for ticket pricing — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of local hockey action with the Pee Dee IceCats facing off against the Athens Rock Lobsters.

Blackberry Smoke Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — The Classic Center — $108.50+ — Experience the vibrant blend of Southern rock, blues, and country from Georgia's own Blackberry Smoke.

Workhorses of the Entertainment/Recreational Industry with Scott Low

7-9 p.m. — The Foundry — $10 adv / $15 door — Experience a soulful night of Americana & Blues with traditional folk and lonesome bluegrass melodies.

Don Toberman: Ping-Pong Champ

8-10 p.m. — Canopy Studio — Tickets required — Experience an absurd and hilarious clown showdown featuring pantomime ping-pong antics.

LSU Tigers at Georgia Bulldogs Women's Gymnastics

7-9 p.m. — Stegeman Coliseum — Stream available — Watch a thrilling women's gymnastics showdown as LSU visits Georgia.

Leif Ove Andsnes Piano Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — University of Georgia Performing Arts Center — $10 (w/ UGA ID), $42–96 — Renowned Norwegian pianist Leif Ove Andsnes captivates audiences with works by Kurtág and Janáček.