Good morning, Athens.

Resonance released today's 2026 Best Cities rankings showing Atlanta ranked 13 overall, Savannah ranked 35 overall and No. 1 among small cities, and Athens placed 59 on the small cities list with scores of 35 in lovability, 71 in prosperity, and 100 in livability (according to the report).

A video report highlighted five of Athens’ oldest restaurants that have served locals and visitors for decades.

The feature, which includes Strickland’s — a longstanding favorite — and The Grill, shows how these historic spots continue to shape the local dining scene.

Applications are open for AthFest Educates grants offering up to $5,000 for music & arts education in Clarke County schools.

Applicants must submit budgets, project details, and goals by Aug. 28 to vie for equipment, program, or professional development funding.

The University of Georgia raised a record $324.4 million in private donations during fiscal 2026—its third consecutive record year with nearly 69,800 donors.

The funds supported scholarships, research and campus programs that helped 10,050 students.

The ACCGov invites eligible 10th, 11th, or 12th grade students to join the Mayor’s Youth Council to learn about its work while meeting twice monthly (on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. from September through December).

Applicants must apply online by Sunday, Aug. 16, with interviews in late August.

The FTC reached a settlement with CVS Caremark on July 16 that will eventually lower prescription costs for eligible Georgia patients by ensuring negotiated savings pass on to the counter (including a $25 cap for insulin) and is set to save consumers $4.5 billion over the next decade.

CCI Real Estate announced that preleasing for 290 Lumpkin, a new 243 residence mixed use student community near UGA, began on July 13.

Leases will open in fall and the first move-ins are expected in summer next year.

Athens soccer fans can join a free watch party at Akins Ford Arena at 155 Hickory St. on Sunday, July 19 at 2 p.m. to view the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final live with family-friendly concessions & interactive experiences including giveaways.

Six Georgia football players signed NIL deals with Nike as part of the college athlete roster announced Thursday, July 16.

Nike said the program offers personalized support on and off the field for long-term success.

Georgia athletics reported 13 NCAA Level III violations for the academic year ending June 30, 2026 — three involving sports betting by former practice players and a facilities worker — and officials provided rules education to the involved staff.

Athens Farmers Market

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Bishop Park — Free entry — Discover local produce, handmade crafts, and community connections at this vibrant weekly market.

Kevn Kinney & Peter Buck Concert

7-11 p.m. — Hotel Indigo's Rialto Club — Sold out — Experience an unforgettable night with music legends Kevn Kinney and Peter Buck in an all-seated show.

Randall Bramblett Band

8-11 p.m. — 40 Watt Club — Prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of the Randall Bramblett Band in a seated show.