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| ISSUE# 067 | FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2026 | HENRY COUNTY GA |
Good morning, Henry County!
School’s out, Memorial Day weekend is here, and summer is officially trying to arrive, thunderstorms and all.
The National Weather Service is calling for daily afternoon storms through Tuesday, with rain chances hovering around 60 to 70 percent each day. The drought may finally be easing up, but don’t let the sunshine fool you…….If thunder roars, go indoors!!! (sorry, couldn’t resist that one!)
Before your weekend begins, we’ve got three local stories worth your attention this morning. Plus, we’ve got a special Memorial Day Weekend Eye issue.
Let’s get into it.🦅👁️
McDonough's Bookstore Is Looking for Its Next Chapter
MCDONOUGH -Story on the Square has been a gathering place on McDonough's historic square for years. Now, owner David is moving abroad, and he's looking for a passionate local buyer who will keep it open and community-rooted. If no buyer steps forward, Story on the Square could close for good. Know someone with a dream that fits? The bookstore that built community in McDonough needs someone to carry it forward
I-75 Relief May Finally Be Coming
HENRY COUNTY - Georgia DOT unveiled a $2.7 billion plan to add 41 miles of dedicated commercial truck lanes on I-75, separated from regular traffic by a barrier. The lanes would run from Macon all the way to Exit 218 at SR 20 right here in Henry County. Tractor-trailers with six or more wheels would be required to use them. The plan was presented in McDonough just last week. Anyone who sits in I-75 traffic near McDonough during rush hour knows why this matters. What the I-75 truck lane project means for Henry County drivers
Hampton Homeowners Could Catch a Tax Break
HAMPTON- Georgia's governor signed a law giving Hampton residents who have lived in the city for five or more years an exemption from city property taxes. It doesn't take effect until January 1, 2027, and only if voters approve it in a referendum first. But if you own a home in Hampton, this one is worth watching closely. For longtime Hampton homeowners, this could become a meaningful savings break if voters approve it next year. What Hampton homeowners need to know about the new exemption
Three Days of Free Jazz Starts Saturday
ATLANTA - Free Jazz Festival Takes Over Piedmont Park This Weekend, from Saturday through Monday. Expect live music, food, local art, and a kids' zone. The Roots play on Sunday. PJ Morton closes it out on Monday. See the full lineup and plan your weekend at the Atlanta Jazz Festival
Henry County Business Owners, Only 32 Spots Available
GEORGIA - The Georgia Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2026 “Coolest Thing Made in Georgia” competition, spotlighting standout products and businesses across the state. Only 32 companies make the bracket.
Public voting begins June 19, with the winner announced August 5. Is there a Henry County business that deserves statewide attention? Nominations close June 8. Nominate a Henry County business before the deadline
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FRIDAY, MAY 22
Last Day of School – Henry County Schools · All HCS Campuses · All Day · Nearly 44,000 Henry County students officially close out the 2025–2026 school year — summer starts today.
Highway 54 Band · Southern Roots Tavern, 15 Griffin St, McDonough · 8PM–11PM · $8–$72 · 21+ after 8PM · A live band closes out the last school night of the year at Southern Roots — doors open at 6PM.
SATURDAY, MAY 23
FUN DAY – Arts and Spades in the Park · Rufus L. Stewart Park, McDonough · 10AM · FREE · A free outdoor community day featuring arts and Spades — open to kids and adults.
Arabia Reads: Open to the Spirit · 📍 Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Conyers, GA · 🗓 Saturday, May 23 · 🕐 1PM–3PM · FREE · ~20 min from McDonough · Rare archival photos and a live discussion with the Monastery's own archivist make this a one-of-a-kind afternoon just over the county line.
⭐ Editor’s Pick
Stephanie Mills, After 7 & Karyn White · VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge, 4650 N Henry Blvd, Stockbridge · Gates 6PM | Show 8PM · Three R&B icons on one stage. Stephanie Mills, After 7, and Karyn White bring an evening of classic hits right here in Henry County.
The Venus Kings – Blues, Soul & Funk · Southern Roots Tavern, 15 Griffin St, McDonough · 9PM–11PM · $10–$85 · 21+ after 8PM · Blues, soul, and funk close out the week at Southern Roots — doors open at 6PM.
Plus, check out Memorial Day Weekend events in the Weekend Eye
Bad Dad Joke of the Day 🤣
What do hackers do on vacation?
They enjoy taking a phishing trip🤣
That’s your Bird’s Eye View heading into Memorial Day weekend. 🦅👁️
A local bookstore is searching for its next chapter. Henry County drivers may finally see long-term relief on I-75. And if the forecast cooperates, the weekend ahead looks packed with music, food, family time, and community traditions.
School’s out. Summer’s here. Henry County is officially shifting into holiday weekend mode.
Got a tip, a story, or an event to share? Email [email protected].
The Eagle Eye Digest
And don’t forget to check out the Weekend Eye before planning your weekend!
Stay sharp, stay local. The Eagle Eye Digest 🦅👁️