🍇 Bloom & Zoom

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Good morning, Spalding County!

It’s been one of those weeks where you can actually feel the momentum building. The sun is hanging around a little longer, and those brave little buds are starting to peek out, clearly as ready for spring as we are. We’ve officially hit that glorious "Fool’s Spring" window. Today is looking like a total winner with highs in the mid-70s, so I highly recommend a long lunch or a walk outside before the weekend brings a sharp reality check and a serious cool-down.

One big heads-up for your commute: the roar is back! NASCAR is descending upon EchoPark Automotive Speedway this weekend. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or you still stubbornly call it Atlanta Motor Speedway (guilty as charged), be prepared for the inevitable gridlock. There will be extra traffic on Highway 19/41, so give yourself some extra time or find a clever backroad if you’re trying to get across town.

- Chad

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The City of Griffin held a formal dedication ceremony for the Sgt. Todd Thomas Community Center on February 19, 2026. Located on the city’s south side, the facility is a key component of the neighborhood revitalization effort and is named in honor of the late Sgt. Todd Thomas for his years of dedicated service to the community. The center is designed to serve as a hub for youth mentoring, after-school tutoring, and local civic gatherings. City officials noted during the ceremony that the opening marks a significant step in the city's commitment to providing safe, accessible spaces for residents to connect and access resources.

The Kiwanis Club of Griffin hosted its long-running Annual Pancake Day at the Kiwanis Building on South Hill Street. The event, which drew hundreds of local residents, serves as the primary fundraiser for the club’s scholarship program, which supports high school seniors and non-traditional students in Spalding County. Volunteers served all-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage, continuing a Valentine’s Day tradition that has funded decades of educational opportunities for local youth. Organizers highlighted that this year’s proceeds will help expand the number of vocational and academic grants awarded for the upcoming school year.

The Griffin-Spalding County School System (GSCS) announced its upcoming annual Spring Job Fair, scheduled for March 26 at the Griffin Region College and Career Academy (GRCCA). The district is actively seeking candidates for the 2026-2027 school year, with openings for both certified and classified positions, including teachers, bus drivers, and administrative support staff. District officials highlighted the event as a key recruitment effort to ensure all schools are fully staffed ahead of the fall semester, offering prospective employees a chance to meet directly with school principals and department heads. Interested applicants are encouraged to register early through the GSCS website to secure interview slots.

Monday & Thursday: Carver (610 Carver Rd) and Woodroof (4245 Old Atlanta Rd) 11am-7pm

Tuesday & Friday: Blalock (5756 Newnan Rd) and Cabin (3865 Jackson Rd)
11am-7pm

Saturday: All centers open 7am-1pm (plus Akin for bulky items only)

Sunday & Wednesday: Closed

Got big stuff? The Akin Collection Center (841 S McDonough Rd) is for bulky items only—no regular household garbage. Open Saturdays 7am-1pm.

All centers closed on county holidays.

Girls’ Night Out

When: Friday, February 20, 6:00 PM

What: Enjoy a "luxe" evening designed for relaxation and retail therapy. This event features boutique shopping, light bites, refreshments, and special cosmetic packages. It’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend with friends in a stylish setting.

Where: Joint Health & Wellness - 230 West College Street (Bldg C), Griffin, GA 30224

DEPARTURE: The Journey Tribute Band

When: Friday, February 20, 8:00 PM

What: Experience the sights and sounds of a vintage Journey concert. Known as one of the most accurate tribute acts in the country, DEPARTURE brings high energy and classic hits to the historic Opera House stage. This is a high-demand show, so early arrival is recommended.

Where: Griffin Opera House - 102 N. Hill Street, Griffin, GA 30224

Arbor Day Celebration

When: Saturday, February 21, 10:00 AM

What: Celebrate the importance of trees in the community at this annual event. This year’s celebration typically includes educational displays and a tree giveaway to help keep Griffin green. One tree per person while supplies last. Redbud, Persimmon, and Catalpa trees will be available.Fun for all ages and a great way to give back to the environment.

Where: Griffin-Spalding County Library/City Park, Griffin, GA 30224

The Garrett Collins Project - Live Performance

When: Saturday, February 21, 8:30 PM

What: Catch a live performance by The Garrett Collins Project, a high-octane blues and rock trio. Known for soulful vocals and impressive guitar work, they provide the perfect soundtrack for a Saturday night out in downtown Griffin.

Where: The Garden, 314 E. Solomon Street, Griffin, GA 30224

Andrew Greer & Kim Carter Fuller

When: Sunday, February 22, 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM

What: Join the Griffing-Spalding Historical Society as they welcome award-winning author, film director and musician Andrew Greer in a conversation moderated by President Jimmy Carter’s niece, Kim Carter Fuller. Andrew will be discussing his latest book, "More Than a President: Sundays With Jimmy Carter"--now available on Mercer University Press. Buy tickets on their website.

Where: Stuckey Conference Center, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30224

Nothing in this section is sponsored. They're just the things you need to know. I'll always let you know when something's sponsored.

76 🌡️ 60 | 🌧️ | 84% | 💨 SW 10-15 mph (9-13 knots)

70 🌡️ 44 | 🌧️ | 88% | 💨 W 10 mph (9 knots)

56 🌡️ 31 | 🌤️ | 10% | 💨 NW 10 mph (9 knots)

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Go enjoy that sunshine while it's here, Griffin. I hope you have a fantastic weekend.