One of Loganville's favorite summer traditions returns this Friday evening as Groovin' on the Green welcomes residents back to the Town Green for another free night of live music, food, and community fellowship.

The July concert will feature Atlanta's own After School Special, a high-energy band known for bringing the biggest hits of the 1990s to life. The free concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 17, at the Loganville Town Green, located at 235 Main Street.

Whether you're a fan of Green Day, Third Eye Blind, Goo Goo Dolls, Matchbox Twenty, No Doubt, or dozens of other iconic artists from the decade, the evening promises a soundtrack that will have many in the audience singing along from the first song to the last.

While the music is certainly the main attraction, Groovin' on the Green has become much more than a concert series. Since its inception, it has grown into one of Loganville's signature community events, creating a place where families, friends, and neighbors can slow down for an evening and simply enjoy being together.

Loganville, GA - Residents who notice an increased law enforcement and emergency vehicle presence around Youth Middle School this week have no cause for alarm.

Walton County public safety agencies are conducting a four-day active shooter and mass casualty response training exercise at the Loganville-area school from Tuesday, July 14, through Friday, July 17. Because students are still on summer break, the campus provides an ideal setting for realistic emergency response training.

Officials emphasize that there is no active emergency. The activity is part of a planned exercise designed to strengthen coordination among law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, emergency management teams, and school staff in the event of a real crisis.

The training comes as schools and first responders continue to place a heightened focus on emergency preparedness following tragic incidents across the nation, including the 2024 school shooting in neighboring Barrow County.

Monroe, GA - The local restaurant scene has taken another hit as When Pigs Fly BBQ in downtown Monroe has officially closed its doors after four years in business, becoming the latest in a growing list of restaurants across Walton and Gwinnett counties that have recently shut down.

The veteran-owned barbecue restaurant announced the news Wednesday in a heartfelt message to customers on social media.

"To our amazing community, it is with heavy hearts that we announce When Pigs Fly BBQ has officially closed our doors after four wonderful years. To all our incredible customers, neighbors, and friends in Monroe: THANK YOU. We opened this restaurant with a dream to bring slow-smoked, all-American BBQ to downtown Monroe, GA. The memories, laughs, and friendships we've built over the last four years mean the world to us."

When Pigs Fly first announced its plans to open during the 2021 Monroe Christmas Parade, bringing new life to the former Kaity's Downtown location on North Wayne Street. Since opening in 2022, the restaurant became known for its smoked barbecue, family atmosphere, and support of the local community.

American Legion Post 233 in Loganville has installed a new leadership team led by Commander "Military Mike" Madsen. The new officers and executive committee are focused on strengthening the Post, expanding support and resources for local veterans, and increasing the organization's involvement throughout the Loganville community. Their vision aims to build a stronger American Legion while continuing its tradition of service to veterans and the community.

The Loganville Police Department is inviting the community to take part in the 12th Annual Donut Dash 5K on Saturday, September 19, in support of Walton County Special Olympics. The family-friendly event welcomes runners and walkers of all ages, with proceeds helping provide year-round athletic opportunities for local athletes with intellectual disabilities. Registration is now open, with early registrants guaranteed an event T-shirt while supplies last.

Piedmont Primary Care at Monroe Pavilion has welcomed Dr. Oyovwike Sandra Amedu, a board-certified internal medicine physician who is now accepting new patients in Walton County. With a focus on preventive care, women's health, weight management, and chronic disease management, Dr. Amedu is committed to helping patients build healthier lives through personalized, long-term care. She completed her residency at Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center and joins the growing primary care team serving the Monroe community.

Gwinnett County, GA is launching a month-long series of events honoring America’s 250th birthday and celebrating the community’s unique role in the nation’s history.

The Realizing America’s Vision: Celebrating 250 Years initiative, running from July 4 through August 2, invites residents to join educational exhibits, family festivities, and historical programs across the county.

Officials say this commemoration highlights both the area’s heritage and those shaping Gwinnett today.

Gwinnett proudly bears the name of Button Gwinnett, one of Georgia’s original signers of the Declaration of Independence, cementing the county’s personal link to America’s founding.

Throughout July, local events—including celebrations in Norcross, Lawrenceville, and Buford—invite the public to reflect and participate.

Residents are encouraged to join activities, share photos, and engage online as Gwinnett marks 250 years of American history and local pride.

Fourth of July celebrations bring joy to many families, but the holiday’s fireworks and festivities can create serious stress for dogs.

Loud noises and bright displays often trigger anxiety, leading to a sharp rise in lost pets as frightened dogs run from yards or homes.

Experts urge owners to keep pets indoors before fireworks begin, ensuring all doors, gates, and windows are secure.

Create a quiet, safe retreat with familiar items and soothing background sound.

Exercise pets earlier in the day and avoid leaving them alone if fireworks cause distress.

Never bring dogs to fireworks shows, and always double-check that identification tags and microchips are current.

Talk to your veterinarian if your pet has severe anxiety—medication or calming products may help.

Preparation and vigilance can help ensure a safe, happy holiday for everyone.

Loganville and Between will unite on Wednesday, July 1, to mark America’s 250th anniversary with a community festival on the Loganville Town Green.

The free celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering food trucks, a live DJ, and activities for all ages as neighbors come together for the nation’s Semiquincentennial.

This event is part of Walton County’s weeklong America 250 festivities, which feature parades, concerts, fireworks, and local food vendors in the days leading up to Independence Day.

Recognized nationwide by the America250 initiative, the series honors 250 years since the 1776 signing of the Declaration of Independence, inviting communities to reflect and celebrate together.

Families and friends are encouraged to gather at the heart of downtown Loganville for a fun, historic experience — no admission required.

Loganville will kick off Walton County’s America 250 Anniversary festivities as the annual Independence Celebration returns to West Walton Park on Saturday, June 27.

The free community event, set for 6 to 10 p.m., promises live entertainment, activities for kids, food vendors, and one of the area’s most exciting fireworks shows.

This celebration launches a week of county-wide events honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Families can enjoy a Kid Zone, delicious local food, and a live DJ before Bad Medicine, a top Bon Jovi tribute band, takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. with hits like Livin’ on a Prayer and Wanted Dead or Alive.

The night will cap off with a fireworks show beginning around 9:30 p.m., weather permitting.

Admission is free at 925 Twin Lakes Road—everyone is welcome to join this beloved community tradition.

Monroe, Ga. — Piedmont Walton welcomes Dr. Craig Akoh, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, to its Orthopedic and Sports Medicine team at Walton.

Dr. Akoh specializes in sports medicine and foot and ankle surgery, offering over five years’ experience treating complex orthopedic issues.

With advanced training from Duke University and the University of Wisconsin, he brings expertise in arthroscopy, lower extremity trauma, deformity correction, and total ankle replacement.

Dr. Akoh is known for delivering innovative, patient-centered care, particularly for athletes, and is skilled in ligament and cartilage repair as well as restoring function after traumatic injuries.

He treats patients ages 12 and older, helping residents return to active lives.

Appointments are now available at the Piedmont Walton office on West Spring Street.

Wendy Burnham spent years praying for an end to human trafficking, feeling deeply called to do more.

In August 2025, this quiet prayer became a clear directive: take action beyond prayer.

Inspired by faith, Wendy envisioned selling products online and donating proceeds to groups rescuing and caring for trafficking survivors.

Her husband Richard, who had always avoided e-commerce, surprisingly suggested selling coffee just days later.

Moved by what she believes was divine alignment, the couple quickly founded Serenity Shore Coffee in December 2025.

Their mission is straightforward but bold—forty percent of every sale supports frontline organizations battling human trafficking.

For the Burnhams, each cup sold represents a direct response to their calling and a small but vital step toward freedom for survivors.

Athens, Ga. — June highlights Hernia Awareness Month, with Dr. Rosemary L. Chickos at Piedmont Walton urging locals to recognize hernia symptoms early.

A hernia happens when tissue pushes through a weak spot in muscles, often in the abdomen or groin.

Risk increases with aging, obesity, pregnancy, and past surgeries.

While some hernias cause visible bulges and pain, others develop quietly.

Types include inguinal, ventral, umbilical, and hiatal hernias, each with distinct symptoms.

If untreated, hernias can become serious, leading to incarcerated or strangulated tissue, which may require emergency intervention.

Dr. Chickos stresses that hernias never resolve on their own—early evaluation and, if needed, surgery offer the best outcomes.

Advanced techniques like robotic-assisted surgery reduce pain and speed recovery for many patients in our area.

Locals with swelling, abdominal pain, or digestive issues are encouraged to seek timely care for personalized treatment.

Loganville marked a historic milestone during its June 11 City Council meeting as Mayor Branden Whitfield presented an America 250 Proclamation to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.

Members of the Matthew Talbot Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) attended the presentation, celebrating Georgia’s deep connection to America’s founding.

The proclamation encourages residents to honor the sacrifices and achievements of the nation’s founders, while inspiring all generations to uphold the principles of freedom, democracy, and individual liberty.

Georgia’s important role as the youngest of the original Thirteen Colonies and its contributions to the Revolutionary War were highlighted as points of local pride.

The Matthew Talbot Chapter, based in Monroe, remains committed to historical education, preservation, and community activities in Walton County as part of the broader America 250 commemoration.

The Loganville and Walnut Grove communities are mourning the sudden loss of Nic Smith, the 20-year-old former Walnut Grove High School star and University of Kentucky football player, who died Monday.

University of Kentucky officials confirmed that Smith was found in a campus residence hall,

with no foul play suspected, and police are investigating alongside the local coroner’s office.

Smith, affectionately known as “Happy” or “Big Happ,” was a defensive lineman for the Wildcats and had just redshirted his first season while preparing for his sophomore year.

A standout at Walnut Grove, Smith made a major impact on and off the field, earning all-area honors in football and playing basketball.

He was also known for his positive energy, love of cooking, and dreams of starting a food business.

Counseling services are being offered as friends, family, and teammates remember Smith for both his athletic talent and uplifting spirit.

Loganville residents can safely dispose of household hazardous waste this Saturday, June 13, at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville.

The event, hosted by Gwinnett Water Resources and Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful, runs from 8 a.m. to noon, offering a free and secure way to clear out old paint, pesticides, automotive fluids, batteries, and other dangerous items.

Improper disposal of these materials poses risks to waterways, wildlife, and local plumbing systems.

Residents may bring up to five containers—like laundry baskets or copy paper boxes—of qualifying waste, but containers will not be returned.

Accepted items include pool chemicals, motor oil, household cleaners, and fluorescent bulbs.

The Gwinnett County Fairgrounds are located at 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, with entry at the main light.

Early arrival is recommended due to expected traffic.

Loganville’s beloved summer tradition, Groovin’ on the Green, returns this Friday night to the Town Green with live music, delicious food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers to downtown Loganville on June 12 for this popular outdoor concert series.

This month’s concert features the Atlanta-based band Bumpin’ the Mango, kicking off their high-energy set at 7:30 p.m.

The event takes place on the second Friday, a schedule change in observance of the upcoming Juneteenth holiday.

Bumpin’ the Mango’s dynamic sound blends funk, soul, R&B, pop, and dance, with a horn-driven lineup inspired by legendary groups like Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago.

The free event offers food vendors and a festive evening for families and music lovers in the heart of Loganville.

Snellville, Ga. – Piedmont Eastside Medical Center brought together 200 community members and staff for its inaugural interactive stroke education event on May 27, marking American Stroke Month.

Led by Cierra Blank, RN, the event offered hands-on learning to help attendees recognize stroke symptoms and understand the urgency of seeking help.

Participants engaged in stations reflecting the BE FAST acronym—focusing on balance, eyes, face, arms, speech, and the importance of timely 911 calls.

Activities included simulating arm weakness by wrapping presents with weighted gloves, as well as experiencing impaired vision through special glasses.

Attendees received free blood pressure checks and could ask local physicians and nurses about stroke risks and heart health.

Residents like Shirley Johnson from Lilburn left feeling empowered, knowing how to spot stroke symptoms and act quickly.

For Loganville High School baseball, winning the state championship has become more than a milestone — it’s an ongoing tradition.

The Loganville Red Devils clinched the 2026 GHSA Class 5A State Championship, battling past Pope in a dramatic three-game series at Gwinnett Field.

Down to their final two outs, the Red Devils delivered a stunning 4-3 comeback, with tournament MVP Brantley Carter sealing the win and etching his name into local lore.

This marks Loganville’s ninth state baseball title, continuing a remarkable stretch of dominance dating back to 2008, with six championships since 2017 alone.

Head coach Bran Mills has built a culture defined by resilience, discipline, and a commitment to excellence.

The Red Devils finished with an impressive 34-4 record, carrying an undefeated regional run and uniting the Loganville community with pride every season.

In 2026, their legacy grows — and so does their legend.

The Loganville community is mourning the loss of 16-year-old Gunnar Redding Bible, a beloved Loganville High School football player whose strength inspired those around him.

Gunnar passed away on May 27, 2026, after bravely battling Guillain-Barré syndrome, lupus, and pneumonia.

Described as resilient and determined, Gunnar’s journey left a profound mark on classmates, coaches, and families throughout Loganville.

Support poured in as news of his condition spread, reflecting the impact he had—on and off the football field.

Over the weekend, hundreds gathered at Red Devils Stadium to honor his life with an emotional balloon release, showing love for Gunnar and his family, especially his mother, Teresa Redding.

The community continues to rally around the Bible family through a GoFundMe campaign, which has already raised nearly $10,000 for medical and funeral expenses.

Gunnar’s legacy of courage and hope will remain in Loganville’s heart.

Eastside Rehabilitation Hospital in Loganville celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting attended by leaders from Encompass Health, Piedmont Healthcare, and local officials.

This new 40-bed facility, located just outside Loganville city limits, is a joint venture built to meet rising demand for rehabilitation services among residents in Loganville, Grayson, and surrounding areas.

With Gwinnett County’s population—and its aging demographic—growing, hospital leaders expect increasing need for recovery care after surgeries, strokes, and injuries.

The hospital features private patient rooms, a spacious therapy gym, an outdoor courtyard, and specialized suites for daily living and dialysis.

Patients will receive intensive therapy, fostering independence and recovery close to home.

For CEO Tom Morris, who grew up locally, leading the new hospital is a meaningful homecoming and a strong step forward for advanced rehabilitation in eastern Gwinnett County.

GRAYSON, GA
Shock and sadness ripple through Grayson and Loganville after a deadly Memorial Day weekend shooting resulted in murder charges for a local resident.

Gwinnett County Police report that 48-year-old Stephany Byrom is accused in the death of 44-year-old Sharell Canty, both of whom lived in Grayson.

The shooting, described by authorities as domestic-related, occurred early Sunday in a neighborhood near Wilkerson Way, just west of downtown Grayson.

Neighbors awoke to a heavy police presence, marking a tragic start to the holiday week for the tight-knit community.

Investigators are working to determine what led to the violence, as residents in the area grapple with concerns about safety and loss.

The Loganville Police Department has introduced a NarcX medication collection box in its lobby, offering residents a secure and easy way to discard unwanted, unused, or expired medications.

The collection box, located at 605 Tom Brewer Road, is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with police staff available for assistance if needed.

This bright blue NarcX unit helps prevent accidental poisoning or misuse by keeping old medications out of household cabinets.

Both pills and liquid medications can be safely deposited, streamlining the process for all community members.

The program aims to reduce prescription drug abuse and protect the environment by ensuring medications aren’t improperly discarded.

Officials urge residents to use the collection box, which is available year-round, making Loganville safer for everyone.

Rodney Taylor, a beloved Loganville barber, has reunited with his family after spending 473 days in ICE detention, sparking widespread local outcry.

The 46-year-old father of seven and double amputee was arrested in January 2025 outside his home, with authorities citing a decades-old burglary conviction — despite his 2010 state pardon.

The case drew support from immigration advocates and neighbors who questioned the prolonged detention.

Taylor’s fiancée, Mildred Pierre, described the arrest as traumatic, with heavily armed agents swarming their home.

Since his release, Taylor is focused on rebuilding his life, reconnecting emotionally with his children, including his six-year-old daughter Annie, and restarting his barbershop business.

Supporters remain concerned about Taylor’s medical care during detention, and the family now seeks community help with housing, transportation, and business recovery.

Uncertainty lingers over his immigration status, but for now, the family is grateful to have Taylor home.

Loganville’s coffee scene is heating up, as two new destinations have opened their doors in the city this month.

BIGGBY Coffee made its debut on Atlanta Highway, offering locals a vast selection of hot, iced, and frozen drinks, including signature lattes, matcha beverages, and breakfast treats.

Meanwhile, The Local Bean launched downtown with a ribbon cutting on Main Street, attracting crowds of community leaders, residents, and business owners eager to sample their artisan coffees and European pastries from Saint Germain Bakery.

The Local Bean emphasizes locally roasted, seasonal beans and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, creating a new gathering spot for the heart of Loganville.

Both coffee shops are energizing the city’s culinary scene and offering fresh spaces for work, meetings, or simply enjoying a quality cup of coffee close to home.

Loganville’s 11th Annual Rotary Wing Fling returns this Saturday, transforming the Town Green into a lively festival from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Main Street.  

This beloved spring event brings together local restaurants, chefs, backyard grillers, and community groups to compete for the coveted title of best chicken wings in the area.  

For $20, attendees taste a diverse lineup of wings and cast votes to decide the winner, blending delicious competition with hands-on support for local charities.  

Beyond wings, families can enjoy live music, bouncy houses, wing-eating contests, a chicken dance showdown, and community vendor booths.  

This year’s contestants range from local eateries like Buffalo’s and American Legion Patriots’ Grill to churches and small businesses, promising unique flavors and plenty of hometown pride.  

All proceeds help fund scholarships, youth programs, and outreach for those in need right here in Loganville.  

Come hungry, vote for your favorites, and celebrate a true community tradition.

Loganville residents are now under Georgia’s annual burn ban, in effect from May 1 to September 30, as summer temperatures and outdoor activities ramp up in Gwinnett and Walton counties.

This seasonal restriction, enforced by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, prohibits burning yard debris, limbs, and land-clearing materials to help lower ozone pollution and protect air quality.

The ban is especially vital this year, with additional wildfire concerns in South Georgia causing temporary fire restrictions statewide.

Smoke from burning can worsen ground-level ozone, posing health risks for children, seniors, and anyone with respiratory issues.

Residents are encouraged to bag yard waste, use recycling services, or compost instead of burning.

Officials remind everyone to stay informed and take extra precautions, helping to keep Loganville safe and air clean throughout the summer.

When Loganville’s McDonald’s closed for reconstruction, Patriots’ Grill at the American Legion saw the opportunity for a viral moment.

The local eatery launched a playful social media series, starring a familiar clown character reacting with shock to the fast-food demolition—only to wander into Patriots’ Grill in desperate search of a meal.

Joined by a cast of parody fast-food mascots, the clown samples burgers, wings, and comfort food favorites, quickly becoming a fan of his new hangout.

The series quickly grabbed Loganville’s attention, with Patriots’ Grill’s Facebook page surging in followers by 38,000% and business doubling as curious locals stopped by to try the food themselves.

The restaurant, open to the public at the American Legion, is cementing its status as a local gem and lunch favorite.

This creative marketing proves sometimes losing an old favorite just leads to an even better find.

Loganville, GA residents, leaders, and officials gathered on May 7 to mark the National Day of Prayer, joining fellow Americans in a collective moment of reflection and unity.

The event took place downtown, featuring inspiring messages from Mayor Branden Whitfield and former Mayor Dan Curry on the power of faith and leadership in public service.

Local pastors from a range of denominations led prayers, urging perseverance and faith amid life’s challenges.

Together, the community prayed for Loganville, Georgia, and the nation, underscoring unity across differences.

First established by President Harry S. Truman in 1952 and permanently placed on the first Thursday in May by President Ronald Reagan, the National Day of Prayer is a longstanding American tradition.

Loganville’s observance emphasized continuity and civic connection, reminding attendees of the shared values of faith and service that define the community.

A multi-agency investigation led by the Loganville Fire Marshal’s Office has resulted in the arrest of Javon J. Heard, 42, of Lilburn, for allegedly setting several fires in the Loganville area.

The case began on March 26 with a structure fire in Loganville and escalated as firefighters responded to additional blazes on Logan Drive, C.S. Floyd Road, and off Atlanta Highway in quick succession.

All incidents were determined to be arson, sparking a coordinated response among agencies in Walton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties.

Investigators connected the fires and, using surveillance footage, identified Heard as the suspect.

One commercial fire caused significant damage but was contained by a fire-rated wall.

Heard now faces multiple charges, including first-degree arson and property damage, across several jurisdictions.

Authorities urge residents to recognize the complexity of arson cases and the essential teamwork required to protect the community.