🦅👁️ Water Savings, Hidden Gems, and Big Decisions

Good morning, Henry County!

There's some good news for Henry County ratepayers today. The Henry County Water Authority has earned a designation that could help reduce borrowing costs on future infrastructure projects and potentially save residents money down the road.

We're also highlighting a hidden outdoor gem tucked away in Ola, looking at a health alert pet owners should know about, breaking down who actually runs Henry County government, and explaining the latest twist in Georgia's ongoing voting debate.

Plus, Locust Grove has a new head football coach with high expectations.

Let's get into it. 🦅👁️

HENRY COUNTY — The Henry County Water Authority has once again been designated a Georgia Environmental Finance Authority WaterFirst Community, recognizing its commitment to long-term water planning and stewardship.

The designation makes HCWA eligible for lower interest rates on certain state loans used for water infrastructure projects, potentially reducing future costs.

Why it matters: As Henry County continues to grow, infrastructure costs grow too. Lower borrowing costs can help stretch taxpayer and ratepayer dollars further. Find out what this designation means for Henry County residents

GEORGIA — Federal officials have confirmed new U.S. cases of New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that targets livestock and animals through open wounds.

Cases have been identified in Texas and New Mexico. While Georgia is not currently affected, veterinarians are encouraging pet owners and livestock operators to stay informed and monitor animals for wounds that do not heal properly.

Why it matters: Henry County is home to farms, horses, livestock, and thousands of pets. Awareness is the first line of defense if the parasite continues spreading north. Learn what symptoms veterinarians are watching for

HENRY COUNTY — The Henry County Board of Commissioners oversees county operations, approves budgets, sets policy, and makes decisions affecting roads, parks, public safety, and more.

The board consists of a chairwoman and four district commissioners who represent residents across Henry County. Meetings are held twice each month and are open to the public.

Why it matters: Many of the decisions that impact daily life in Henry County begin in these meetings. Understanding who represents you is one of the easiest ways to stay informed and engaged. Find your district and meet your commissioner

GEORGIA — Lawmakers meeting in special session are debating how Georgia should count votes after a law banning QR codes on ballots takes effect July 1.

What began as a proposal to extend the deadline until 2028 now includes a controversial amendment that would require hand recounts of the top two races in every election before results could be certified.

Election officials argue the change would increase costs, slow results, and create new challenges for counties.

Why it matters: If approved, the proposal could affect how future elections are conducted across Georgia, including here in Henry County. See what's being debated under the Gold Dome

LOCUST GROVE — Anthony Williams has been named the new head football coach at Locust Grove High School following the team's historic season and first region championship.

The former Georgia Tech defensive end returns to Henry County after coaching stops at Eastside, Flowery Branch, and Piedmont Academy.

Why it matters: Expectations are high after Locust Grove's deepest playoff run in school history. Williams now takes over one of the county's most closely watched athletic programs. Read the full story from Henry Herald

MCDONOUGH — Most people don't realize Henry County has a place where you can launch a kayak and paddle the South River.

Tucked away in Ola, Butler's Bridge Park is a 44-acre nature park featuring the county's only public kayak launch, providing access to the South River and the growing South River Water Trail. The park also includes trails, boardwalks, pavilions, campsites, and an outdoor classroom.

One important thing to know: kayaks are not available to rent at the park. You'll need to bring your own kayak or paddleboard to get on the water.

Why it's a gem: It's one of Henry County's newest parks and many residents still don't know it exists. If you're looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure without leaving the county, this might be your new favorite spot.

📍 Butler's Bridge Park · Butler's Bridge Road · Ola, Henry County, GA
🛶 Free kayak launch · Bring your own kayak or paddleboard
🚗 Free parking on site
🌿 2.4 miles of trails · Pavilions · Outdoor classroom

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

TUESDAY, JUNE 23

SCTC Summer Chill — Henry County Campus · 📍 Southern Crescent Technical College, Henry County Campus · 🕐 11AM–1PM · FREE · Ice cream, community connection, and a chance to learn about SCTC programs — sponsored by the Student Government Association.

Tasty Tuesdays — City of Stockbridge · 📍 Clark Park, 111 Davis Rd, Stockbridge · 🕐 5:30–8PM · FREE · Step show, stroll contest, live band, food trucks, and prizes — the summer series continues.

Line Dance Tuesdays with Janice · 📍 4518 N Henry Blvd, Suite 109, Stockbridge · 🕐 6:30PM · Tickets required · Every Tuesday — beginner friendly, high energy, and a genuinely fun way to spend a Tuesday night in Stockbridge.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24

Walk It Out Wednesday · 📍 Arabia Mountain Nature Center, Lithonia · 🕐 4–6PM · FREE · ~25 min from McDonough · A relaxed midweek hike with Ranger Doffice — no registration needed. (Close to Home)

THURSDAY, JUNE 25

Business After Hours — Henry County Veterans Support Group · 📍 32 Jonesboro St, McDonough · 🕐 5:30–7PM · FREE · The Chamber's monthly mixer lands at an organization that serves Henry County veterans — connect with local business owners while supporting a good cause.

Adopt a Moo Moo · 📍 Chick-fil-A, 1321 GA-20, McDonough · 🕐 6–8PM · FREE · Chick-fil-A McDonough invites the community to meet the animals and learn how to help support local farm life — come dressed as a cow and you might just eat free.

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

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

Food Truck Frenzy Fundraiser · 📍 Village Park, 750 Fairview Rd, Ellenwood · 🕐 4–9PM · A portion of proceeds benefits IMPACT Alliance — food trucks, music, putting green, splash pad, and games for the whole family.

7 Summers — The Ultimate Morgan Wallen Tribute · 📍 Southern Roots Tavern, 15 Griffin St, McDonough · 🕐 9–11PM · Doors 6PM · $34–$224 · 21+ after 8PM · Every Morgan Wallen hit performed live — for the fans who know every word.

Friday Nights with DJ Jada Byrd · 📍 1942 On The Square, 3B Keys Ferry St, McDonough · 🕐 7PM · Every Friday · Good music, good food, and good vibes on the Square all night.

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

Housing Hope Walk-a-Thon · 📍 Alexander Park West, 110 Jonesboro Rd, McDonough · 🕐 Sign-in 7AM | Walk 8AM–Noon · FREE · Pisteuo Development Inc. hosts Henry County's first affordable housing awareness walk — music, drinks, and snacks along the way.

Get-to-Stepping Fitness Walk · 📍 130 MLK Sr. Trail, Stockbridge · 🕐 9AM · FREE · The City of Stockbridge's community wellness walk heads toward Reeves Creek Trail — all are welcome.

K-New VCM Summer Pop-Up · 📍 Victory Christian Ministry, 1320 S Zack Hinton Pkwy, McDonough · 🕐 9AM–2PM · FREE · Family fun, vendors, free hot dogs, raffles, and featured gospel group Cogic Christkidz.

Sunflower Weekend at Southern Belle Farm · 📍 1658 Turner Church Rd, McDonough · 🕐 See site for hours · $25/person | Under 2 FREE · Runs June 27–28 · U-pick sunflowers, 30+ outdoor activities, and a free souvenir cup — one of Henry County's most photogenic weekends of summer.

Charlie Wilson · 📍 VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge, 4650 N Henry Blvd, Stockbridge · 🕐 8PM · From $129 via Ticketmaster · Uncle Charlie returns to Stockbridge with saxophonist Mike Phillips added to the lineup — box office open Thursday–Saturday, noon to 6PM.

Def Van Jovi Crue — 80s Rock · 📍 Southern Roots Tavern, 15 Griffin St, McDonough · 🕐 9–11PM · Doors 6PM · $21–$148 · 21+ after 8PM · Def Leppard, Van Halen, Mötley Crüe — three of the biggest 80s rock bands honored in one wild Saturday night at Southern Roots.

SUNDAY, JUNE 28

Sunflower Weekend — Day 2 · 📍 Southern Belle Farm, 1658 Turner Church Rd, McDonough · $25/person | Under 2 FREE · Last day of the weekend — u-pick sunflowers, farm activities, and summer fun before the week begins.

MONDAY, JUNE 29

Henry County Summer Fest — Saturday, June 29, 4–9:30 PM, EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta Motor Speedway), 1500 Tara Place, Hampton. Confirmed via Henry Herald.

Bad Dad Joke of the Day 🤣

Why don't scientists trust atoms?

Because they make up everything.🤣

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

Today's stories are a reminder that local decisions matter. Whether it's water rates, elections, schools, or public health, the choices being made now can shape Henry County for years to come.

Got a tip, a story idea, or an event to share? 📧 [email protected]

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