Grady Newsource
This piece was reported by a journalism student in the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia.
Athens’ Leaders Cite Youth Programs, Police Staffing as Factors in Crime Rate Drop
Athens-Clarke County
March 25, 2026
Athens’ Leaders Cite Youth Programs, Police Staffing as Factors in Crime Rate Drop
Major violent crimes, including homicide and robbery, declined significantly in Athens-Clarke County in 2025, with local officials crediting several factors and initiatives introduced last year. Several members of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, including Mayor Kelly Girtz, believe preventing crime starts with the youth. “The stressors are sometimes related to…
UGA Miracle Dance Marathon is this Weekend — Here’s What You Need to Know
Athens-Clarke County
March 23, 2026
UGA Miracle Dance Marathon is this Weekend — Here’s What You Need to Know
UGA Miracle, the University of Georgia’s largest student-led philanthropic organization, will host its 31st annual Dance Marathon at Stegeman Coliseum on Saturday, following a record-breaking fundraising year. The event serves as the organization’s final fundraising push to benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The dance marathon runs 13.5 hours featuring live…
Rodeo Thrills Crowds, Builds Lasting Relationships for Block and Bridle
In-Depth
March 22, 2026
Rodeo Thrills Crowds, Builds Lasting Relationships for Block and Bridle
The Great Southland Stampede Rodeo held its 51st annual rodeo from March 19 to March 21 this year, featuring events such as calf roping and bull riding, and also a strong sense of camaraderie among the hosting student group, the UGA Block and Bridle club. Thousands were in attendance…
Athens’ De-Icing Chemicals Raise Waterway Concerns
Athens-Clarke County
March 21, 2026
Athens’ De-Icing Chemicals Raise Waterway Concerns
Winter storms bring more to Athens-Clarke County than snow and ice. After the slush melts, salt crystals and sand linger on streets and sidewalks until the next rainstorm washes those materials toward storm drains, ditches and nearby waterways. During the two winter storms in Athens during 2026, Athens-Clarke County Emergency…
Hyperlocal Forecasting Sharpens Winter Storm Predictions in Athens
Athens-Clarke County
March 18, 2026
Hyperlocal Forecasting Sharpens Winter Storm Predictions in Athens
When winter storms threaten Athens, accurate forecasting can be crucial to the safety of thousands. Georgia’s varied landscape stretches the limits of broad, statewide forecasting, often prioritizing metro areas like Atlanta over smaller cities. At the University of Georgia, students in the Weather Dawgs are closing that gap by using…
Athens Mayoral Candidates Talk Issues in February Debate
Athens-Clarke County
March 15, 2026
Athens Mayoral Candidates Talk Issues in February Debate
Candidates for Athens mayor — Mara Zuniga, Tim Denson, Dexter Fisher and Lakeisha Gantt — faced off at a public forum at Ciné on Feb. 7. Immigration enforcement, rapid growth and homelessness emerged as key issues shaping the future of Athens. Hosted by AthChat podcast co-hosts Drew Abney and Russell…
Bill Prioritizes AI Transparency by State Agencies, Teachers Retirement System
Education
March 13, 2026
Bill Prioritizes AI Transparency by State Agencies, Teachers Retirement System
Georgia lawmakers are considering a bill that would require an annual report on the use of artificial intelligence by state agencies, such as the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia. “I think there’s a lot of thirst to use AI to help with productivity, but I think there’s a lot of…