Good morning, Athens.

Today’s Casting Call with Tess Hammock offers a holiday competition for local homeowners, vertical film auditions for young actors, and a feature film seeking police officers — with a special guest spotlight from a top Atlanta talent agent.

Clarke and Oconee County high schools were named AP Honor Schools of Distinction, state superintendent Richard Woods announced last week based on their AP exam performance.

Clarke Central earned honors in six of seven categories while Cedar Shoals received recognition in three.

The University of Georgia’s Live Insect Zoo on Cedar Street in Building B welcomes visitors today to explore arthropods, including scorpions, tarantulas and walking sticks, with guided tours that aim to reduce fear of insects + offer hands-on educational support from entomologists.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed a law on May 13 that expands the types of medical cannabis products available and raises legal potency limits; the law will take effect July 1.

The CDC + Emory University Hospital are monitoring two Georgia residents exposed to the Andes variant of hantavirus aboard the MV Hondius last week.

One patient is receiving treatment while the other remains under observation, and officials say there is no risk to the general public.

Flowerland—a longtime shop on Prince Ave known for its creative signs—is for sale, with owners planning a gradual transition as they approach retirement over the next couple years.

The property, noted for its flexible commercial-office zoning and high traffic counts, offers redevelopment potential.

Georgia football added three-star inside linebacker Temorris Campbell from Florida on May 13 as he pledged to join the Bulldogs after selecting Georgia over Nebraska, bolstering a predominantly offensive recruiting class.

The Athens Rock Lobsters announced on May 13 that they will join the SPHL for the 2026–27 season and will continue to call Akins Ford Arena home; the change brings teams closer regionally & reduces travel for fans.

Laurent Landi, a USA Gymnastics Hall of Famer and two-time Coach of the Year, has joined UGA gymnastics as associate head coach for the upcoming 2027 season as head coach Cecile Canqueteau-Landi rebuilds the team following recent staff departures.

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.

Around the World Cooking Challenge Summer Camp for Junior Chefs

9 a.m.-12 p.m. — The Table @ Athens Cooks — $325 — Aspiring young chefs explore global cuisines and sharpen their culinary skills over four fun-filled days.

The Ultimate Doors Tribute Concert

10 AM – 9 PM — Georgia Theatre — Tickets available March 13th — Experience an authentic journey back to the era of The Doors with this celebrated tribute band.

KACCB Litter League Greenway Cleanup

9:30-11:00 a.m. — Dudley Park — Free entry — Join the community in an effort to clean up the Greenway and protect the local environment.