Northeast Georgia News
Reporting from Barrow, Clarke, Jackson, Madison, Oconee and surrounding counties.
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For the Kids: Phi Mu President Sarah Horner Leads With Purpose
Clapping hands, screaming girls and viral “rush toks” may seem to define sorority life, but reality is different for University of Georgia Phi Mu President Sarah Horner. Horner honors Phi Mu’s motto, “for the kids,” and actively works to create a difference in the lives of families battling pediatric illness. …
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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Athens-Clarke County Jail Population Increases
The average daily population at the Athens-Clarke County Jail has increased to well over 400 and has even peaked at more than 500 inmates over the past year, straining staffing and increasing costs for the county. The increase reflects a combination of bond policy changes, poverty, mental health challenges and…