Good morning, neighbor!

A month before Maclin Williams became a father, he lost his own.

More than a decade later, that loss is helping shape a mission to keep more Henry County dads healthy, present, and connected to their families.

We're also covering a school supply drive that helps local teachers, a major leadership summit happening in Stockbridge today, and the latest from Georgia lawmakers as their special session continues.

Let's get into it. 🦅👁️

HENRY COUNTY — School may be out, but local teachers are already preparing for the first day of class.

The Henry County Public Schools Foundation's annual Stuff the Bus campaign returns July 11, collecting classroom supplies for teachers and students across the district. Donations will help stock classrooms and support new educators before school begins August 3.

Collection sites will be open in Locust Grove, McDonough, and Stockbridge from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Why it matters: Many teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies. This drive helps put needed resources directly into Henry County classrooms. Learn how to donate, volunteer, or view the classroom wish list

STOCKBRIDGE — More than 280 business and community leaders are expected to gather in Henry County today for the 2026 Innovation Summit.

Hosted by the Henry County Chamber of Commerce, this year's event focuses on workforce development, leadership, and artificial intelligence. Featured speakers include Georgia Power CEO Kim Greene and Piedmont Henry Hospital CEO David Kent.

Why it matters: As Henry County grows, local employers are increasingly focused on attracting and retaining talent in a rapidly changing economy. Learn more about the Innovation Summit

GEORGIA — One of the biggest issues expected to dominate Georgia's special legislative session may already be off the table.

House Republican leaders said Wednesday they do not plan to take up redistricting during the special session, despite Governor Brian Kemp calling lawmakers back to the Capitol in part to address new political maps before the 2028 election cycle.

That leaves two issues that may have a more direct impact on Henry County residents: changes to Georgia's ballot-counting system ahead of a July 1 deadline and discussions about property tax relief. One proposal could eventually allow counties to ask voters whether they want to approve a 1-cent sales tax in exchange for lower property taxes on primary residences.

Why it matters: The political map fight appears headed for a later date, but lawmakers could still take action on election procedures and proposals that affect homeowners and future local tax bills. Follow updates from the special session

MCDONOUGH - A month before Maclin Williams became a father, he lost his own.

In October 2014, Williams' father died of heart failure at just 59 years old. It left him to navigate fatherhood without the man he expected would be his biggest source of guidance & support.

"You lose your biggest helper that you expect when you become a new dad," Williams said.

More than a decade later, that loss continues to shape the work he's doing in Henry County.

In 2023, Williams launched the McDonough Walking Club as a way to bring people together and encourage healthier lifestyles. But over time, he noticed something troubling. Women consistently showed up. Men often did not.

That observation sparked an idea that grew into last week's Men's Health to Men's Wealth Conference. This daylong event brought together community leaders, mentors, business professionals, and health advocates to discuss the challenges facing men and boys.

The conference exceeded Williams' expectations.

As the event wrapped up and attendees prepared to head home, something unexpected happened.

"People stopped me and thanked me for putting it all together because they got so much out of it," he said.

For Williams, the moment carried deeper meaning.

"My dad would be proud," he reflected. "I'm always working to make him proud, which is hard because I'll never get to hear him say it again."

He paused before adding what may be the real reason behind everything he does.

"My dad never got the chance to tell me he was proud of the dad I became, so I'm always working from behind. But I'll always work to give that chance to other dads out there."

As the father of an 11 year old son, Williams believes children learn more from what they see than what they are told. That's why he continues to invest his time building opportunities for fathers, sons, and families to connect.

This Father's Day, his mission is simple: help more dads stay healthy enough to be present for the moments that matter most.

Because sometimes the greatest gift a father can give his family is simply more time.

Connect with Maclin Williams
🚶 McDonough Walking Club

Thanks to Eagle Eye readers for the tips. Here are a few local spots where you can catch the world's biggest sporting event without leaving the south side.

If you know of more locations, send them along. 📧[email protected]

THURSDAY, JUNE 18

2026 Innovation Summit – The Talent Catalyst · 📍 Merle Manders Conference Center, Stockbridge · 🕐 8AM–1:30PM · Tickets required · Presented by Georgia Power — keynotes from Kim Greene and Piedmont Henry CEO David Kent, plus interactive leadership and AI sessions. A rare chance to hear from two of the region's top leaders in one room.

Local Farmers Market · 📍 97 Lake Dow Rd, McDonough · 🕐 10AM–2PM · FREE · Fresh local produce, good conversation, and sunshine — your Thursday tradition through August 27.

Concert on the Green in the Grove · 📍 Locust Grove area · 🕐 7–8PM · FREE · Bring your lawn chair and settle in for a free outdoor concert — one of those easy summer nights worth showing up for.

Tuned Up Thursday – Karaoke Night · 📍 1942 On The Square, 30 B Keys Ferry St, McDonough · 🕐 8PM · Grab the mic or just grab a drink — either way, Thursday nights on the Square deliver.

FRIDAY, JUNE 19 — 🖤❤️💚 JUNETEENTH CELEBRATIONS 🖤❤️💚

Juneteenth at The Bridge – Featuring Common 🚨 · 📍 VyStar Amphitheater, 4650 N Henry Blvd, Stockbridge · 🕐 Gates 6PM | Show 8PM · FREE — tickets at the door · Grammy Award-winning artist Common headlines a night of freedom, community, and culture — hosted by Big Tigger and Francesca Amiker, with performances from Jevon Dewand and Trap Starz. Admission is free and tickets will be available at the door. Ticketmaster

City of Hampton Juneteenth Celebration · 📍 Downtown Hampton · 🕐 12PM–6:30PM · FREE · An all-day community celebration in the heart of Hampton — good food, live music, and family memories in the making.

Juneteenth Artist Market · 📍 Depot Park, Hampton Train Depot · 🕐 11AM–6:30PM · FREE to attend · Shop handcrafted goods from Black artists and makers while honoring the spirit of Juneteenth in one of Hampton's most beautiful outdoor spaces.

Freedom in Our Voices — Juneteenth Open Mic Night · 📍 Awaken Drip Coffee Lounge, Hampton · 🕐 7:30–9:30PM · FREE · Sign up to perform or just come to listen — a Juneteenth celebration of voice, community, and culture right here in Hampton.

Father's Day at The Sensory Lab · 📍 Altura Coffee, McDonough · 🕐 6PM · Tickets required $150 · Guided rum tasting, premium cigars, and live music — presented by The Cigar Bank, made for the dad who likes the finer things.

Friday Nights with DJ Jada Byrd · 📍 1942 On The Square, 3B Keys Ferry St, McDonough · 🕐 7PM · Cap off Juneteenth with good music and good vibes on the Square.

Bad Dad Joke of the Day 🤣

I can’t trust stairs..

They’re always up to something🤣

That's your Thursday edition of the Eagle Eye Digest.

As we head into the Juneteenth & Father’s Day weekend, we hope you'll take time to celebrate, connect with family, and support the events happening across our community.

And if you're looking for one simple way to make a difference this summer, consider helping fill a school bus before students ever step on one.

Got a tip, a story, or an event to share? Email [email protected].

Stay sharp, stay local. The Eagle Eye Digest 🦅👁️