Good morning, Athens.

Seniors at Act Lanier Village Estates held a Yappy Hour to celebrate National Pet Month by pairing residents with adoptable pets.

Atomic-6, a local company, plans to launch data centers into space to harness free solar power + the cold environment for cooling.

CEO Trevor Smith said the project will lower energy costs and boost efficiency starting soon.

Savor Georgia magazine released its top 10 burger restaurants list on May 7, featuring Baddie's Burger House among local favorites.

The list spotlights regional spots offering creative and classic burgers + highlights diverse flavors across the state.

Athens offers a busy weekend with the Marigold Festival on Saturday at Pittard Park (free admission), a fair at Lay Park, and EXPOS 2026 at 40 Watt Club with performances.

A brunch and Shrek the Musical Jr. are featured on Sunday at the Georgia Center and Morton Theatre.

State officials announced on May 7 that Georgia began issuing surplus tax refunds, with eligible residents receiving up to $500 — refunds will total over $1 billion for those who filed in 2024 and 2025 and have no outstanding tax debt.

Taxpayers can check their status using the online Georgia Tax Center.

Sanford Stadium will host its first Bulldog soccer game in 30 years on Thursday, Aug.

20 at 6:30 p.m. free admission, as the team plays James Madison to mark the Olympic legacy from 1996 — a historic moment for Georgia soccer.

Georgia and Florida State canceled their 2027 and 2028 home-and-home series and are planning a neutral-site game (previously discussed for Tampa) to preserve their home game totals.

The teams will schedule the contest in the future.

Steve Wynn with Special Guest Peter Buck

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Rialto Club at Hotel Indigo — Under 18 allowed with guardian — Enjoy an unforgettable night featuring music from Steve Wynn and Peter Buck in downtown Athens.

Weaver D's Food & Entertainment Festival

11 a.m. - 6 p.m. — VFW Post 2872 — Free entry — Celebrate community with food, music, and local culture at this vibrant festival.

Rick Fowler Acoustic Band Blues & Brews Residency

6-8:30 p.m. — Athentic Brewing Co. — $5 — Enjoy original blues-rock tunes from a local favorite in a relaxed brewery setting.

Ride the Airbase Georgia Warbirds

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Athens-Ben Epps Airport — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling ride in classic warbirds at this exciting aviation event.

Cosmic Charlie Concert

8-11 p.m. — Georgia Theatre — Concert tickets available — Experience a lively performance by Cosmic Charlie in the heart of Athens.

Sips & Salads Cooking Class

7-9 p.m. — The Table @ Athens Cooks — $75 — Experience a culinary night of crafting salads paired with wines alongside fellow food enthusiasts.

Wymberly Live at Nowhere Bar

7 p.m. — Nowhere Bar — Check for admission details — Experience the Savannah band Wymberly as they bring their sound to Athens.

The Amazing Acro-Cats' Meowloween Performance

2-4 p.m. — Morton Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience amazing cats performing tricks followed by the unique all-cat band Tuna and the Rock Cats.