Good morning, Macon.

Back to school has arrived in Middle Georgia—community and county groups will host free school supply giveaways for students in need this weekend.

Events include a drive-through event by the Bibb County School District and fun activities with free food and supplies at local venues in Macon and nearby areas.

The Backlot Players present Drinking Habits, a farce in which two nuns secretly make wine to keep their convent open while reporters pose as clergy; the show runs Friday–Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

The Backlot Players present A Talent for Murder, a suspense drama where a mystery novelist’s relatives plot to kill her for her art collection—featuring comic relief in exchanges with a live-in doctor and a savvy Indian butler.

Shows run Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Bibb County Schools will hire a truancy officer using $345,000 in county funds to lower the 28.5% chronic absentee rate, which is much higher than the state rate of 19.5%.

The district began its search for a candidate to work a boots on the ground approach and boost community outreach—officials said the role will help meet new state attendance guidelines.

Monroe County School District is ready for a new school year as Superintendent Dr. Jim Finch — who brings over 30 years of education experience — focuses on student achievement, family engagement and safer schools; the district has hired 29 new teachers and plans to open a new college and career academy and a freshman campus to ease overcapacity and deferred maintenance.

Drivers in Macon will see more school buses today as state officials host the annual 'School's Open, Drive Carefully' tour to remind motorists to slow down and stop when required by law — GOHS Director Roger Hayes said drivers illegally pass buses nearly 9,000 times daily and Addy's Law now enforces fines up to $1,000 or jail for offenders.

Dr. Jared Hudspeth, an orthopedic shoulder and sports medicine surgeon with Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta, shares tips for preventing and treating shoulder injuries, noting that athletes often face instability while active older adults experience soft tissue issues.

He advises that anyone with shoulder pain lasting more than a few days should see a specialist—prompt evaluation can help prevent more serious damage.

Cody Matlock Live Performance

9-11 p.m. — Grant's Lounge — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of soulful music from Grammy-nominated artist Cody Matlock in a vibrant local venue.

Larry Keel & Jon Stickley Duo Concert

8-11 p.m. — Society Garden — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of acoustic bluegrass music from two of the finest flatpicking guitarists.

The Second Annual Little Miss 478 Pageant

1-4 p.m. — The Douglass Theatre — $20 admission — Celebrate young talent and empowerment at the fun-filled Little Miss 478 Pageant.

Documentary Screening of 'NEWT'

6 p.m. — Theatre Macon — Tickets available online — Experience the captivating story of musician Newton Collier as part of the Macon Music Festival.

Joshua Ray Walker Concert

8-10:30 p.m. — Grant's Lounge — Ticket prices vary — Experience the nostalgic sounds of 80's and 90's pop country with Joshua Ray Walker.

KPS Weekend 2025

11 AM – 3 PM — Atrium Health Amphitheater — Tickets from $0.00 to $21.00 — Join KPS Youth for a fun-filled 3-day event with activities and check-ins around Macon.