Community Corner

First Friday of the Season Tonight

As citizens come to downtown Watkinsville to shop, eat, and play this evening, police remind motorists to be mindful of pedestrians.

It's the time of year again when, on the first Friday evening of the month, folks flock to downtown Watkinsville to enjoy a variety of activities.

, held April through December from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., offers shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities, and is sponsored by the Watkinsville Trade and Tourism Association

Each month's event has a unique theme, said Watkinsville Mayor Joe Walter, adding that the City offers support to the WTTA.  Tonight there will be Easter-themed cookie decorating for kids, he said.

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Walter said he is looking forward to the festivities.

"It's a family-oriented event that has really grown," he said. "It's free, good fun for the kids, and in these times, it's nice to have a free event that everyone can enjoy."

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Walter, who spends much of the evenings on First Fridays popping free popcorn for attendees, attributes the event's ever-growing success to a collaborative group effort.

"It's the definition of communitity," he said. 

Watkinsville police will slow traffic and help pedestrians cross the roadways, Police Chief Lee O'Dillon said.

Officers will also assist with another event tonight; the .

Around 7 p.m., Whitehall Road will be closed temporarily until the runners pass through the area, O'Dillon said.  After that, officers will conduct "rolling roadblocks" following the race's route.

"Please slow down and be cautious of the runners in the area," he said.


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