The Front Page: Recent Episodes
The Red & Black
The biggest stories of the week from the independent student newsroom serving the University of Georgia and Athens communities.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall sit down with culture editor Lilly Kersh to discuss the challenging topic of burnout. Whether it be from school, work, social life or anything in between, burnout can strike fast if you aren't sure how to prevent it. Jim and Lilly discuss ways to prevent and manage burnout and give their own experiences as well. Afterwards, Maya sits down with University of Georgia student Miku Fawcett after we spoke with her during the first week of school to see how her semester compared to her initial predictions in the beginning.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass sits down with University of Georgia lecturer Dr. Michael G. Thomas Jr. to discuss the challenging topic of budgeting. Dr. Thomas goes over many financial challenges, common mistakes that students fall into and the biggest tips and tricks to succeed in maintaining a healthy budget while in college and beyond.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass ventures around the University of Georgia campus on this year's G-Day UGA football game to speak with tailgaters across the campus and see just what everyone is up to before a normal gameday in Athens. Jim asks people about their traditions, their go-to gameday foods and what they are looking forward to going into the game.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass sits down with opinion editor Carson Barrett and enterprise editor Lucinda Warnke to discuss an article Carson published for The Red & Black titled "College students are not woke, just tired" and give their takes on the use of the term woke directed towards college students. Carson and Lucinda also discuss the modern-day college education system and give their opinions on the messy politics that surround it.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall discuss the challenging subject of breakups. Whether it is friends drifting apart or a romance that has lost its flame, Jim and Maya give their own advice on how they have handled breaking up. Jim and Maya also sit down with assistant photo editor Katie Tucker to discuss each other's experiences on the matter and things that each of them has learned from their own situations.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall sit down with Areeba Hashmi and Rachel Johnson, the co-presidents of the Period Project at the University of Georgia. They discuss the student-led organization, what their mission is, and what changes they aim to achieve on the UGA campus and in the Athens community.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall discuss the 95th annual Academy Awards that took place last week with staff members at The Red & Black who had plenty of things to say about the awards. Design editor Abbie Herrin, video editor Kelly Gago and assistant culture editor Sydney Bishop all give their takes on the winners, films that missed out and the ceremony overall.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall sit down with senior guides editor Liz Rymarev to see how she goes about studying. They discuss good studying habits, their experiences in studying for exams, and their current studying habits with midterms approaching.
In this episode, assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall sits down with Jessica Evans, vice president of the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People's chapter at the University of Georgia. The two discuss the NAACP's history, Evans' background with the association and new things the association is doing at UGA.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall invite assistant sports editor Owen Warden into the studio to give advice and tips on dealing with roommates in life. They talk about their former living situations as well as a few horror stories from their experiences while living with others in college.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall venture to one of Athens newest trails called the Firefly Trail. The planned 39-mile trail is still in progress and Jim and Maya walk along the completed segment to view the scenery, see the progress that has been made and speak to others along the trail.
In this episode of The Front Page, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall bring opinion editor Carson Barrett into the podcast studio to discuss the topic of managing schedules. They each give their own advice, discuss their experiences and just how they stay afloat during a busy week.
In this episode, podcast editor Jim Bass visits Athens non-profit organization Nuci's Space to interview staff members about their experiences with the organization and also what impact Nuci's Space has on the community. Assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall also speaks on the history and meaning behind its creation.
In this episode of The Front Page, podcast editor Jim Bass and assistant podcast editor Maya Gotschall venture to the Zell B. Miller Learning Center on the second day of classes for the spring semester to see just what people in the MLC were up to on add/drop week. They discuss their schedules, their reasons for being in the MLC, and also their feelings on the semester looking forward.
In this episode, we report on Athens' restaurant revolving door. In recent months, it seems as though restaurants in Athens have been opening and closing more than ever. Podcast editor Midori Jenkins hosts. Stay tuned for an interview with Jessica Rothacker, owner of Heirloom Cafe and a quick list of openings and closings. Assistant podcast editor Jim Bass gives a Ponko Chicken Restaurant Review.
In this episode, podcast editor Midori Jenkins shares a roundup of news affecting the Athens community this week including updates on the Georgia runoff election, construction of the new Hillel building, flu season, and the Georgia-Kentucky matchup.
In this episode, we bring you coverage of National Native American Heritage month. Podcast editor Midori Jenkins and assistant podcast editor Jim Bass discuss different ways you can celebrate in the month of November. National Native American Day occurs the day following thanksgiving, many only know this day as Black Friday. The hosts will also discuss the interesting contractions between these two notable events.
On this week’s news round up, host Jim Bass discusses the November 8th Georgia Midterm elections, Early Voting in Athens, the Georgia Bulldogs vs Tennessee Volunteers college football matchup, and last weekend’s Wild Rumpus event.
This week’s episode is about the student tradition Frat Beach. Students gather on the beach at St. Simons Island the Friday before the Georgia-Florida football game to celebrate the rivalry between the two teams. Podcast editor Midori Jenkins and assistant podcast editor Jim Bass took to the Tate Plaza to conduct interviews and learn more about this experience from the first-hand perspective of UGA undergraduate students.
In this episode, we will discuss unsolved homicides. First, assistant podcast editor Jim Bass interviews Cameron Jay, creator of the Classic City Crime podcast. Second, Jim reflects on the interview and discusses the alarming unsolved homicide rate with podcast editor Midori Jenkins.
In this episode, podcast editor Midori Jenkins and assistant podcast editor Jim Bass bring you a selection of short stories and poems from The Georgia Review. The Georgia Review is a literary-cultural publication from the University of Georgia publishing since 1947.
On this week's news round up, host Midori Jenkins, talks about voter registration for Georgia Midterm Elections, the 4th Annual PorchFest, and the postponing of Latinx Fest.
This week, host Jim Bass, discusses the Georgia Midterm elections coming up on November 8th. He chats with Erin Deihl, Election reporter and Libby Hobbs, DEI Chair, Newsletter Editor, and reporter for Georgia-Asian Times about candidates, key policies, and diversity this election cycle.
In this episode, we report on the most recent stories affecting the Athens community this week. Stay tuned for updates on the William Apartments, verdict of the Ariana Zarse hit-and-run case, life lessons from Ira Glass, and coverage of last weekend's AthFest.
This week, we bring you a special episode from the Snelling Dining Commons at the University of Georgia. Host Jim Bass takes us through the sites and sounds at Snelling from the hours of 1:30am to 3:00am. We discuss the history of the tradition, Snellibrate and uncover what keeps students coming back night after night.
In this episode, we bring you coverage of the most recent stories affecting the Athens community this week. Mariah Parker resigns from District 2 Commissioner. Students planning on moving in to The William apartments, a new complex on North Finley have found themselves displaced in downtown hotels. The University of Georgia dedicates new first-year residence hall Black-Diallo-Miller. Stetson Bennet performs his career best leading to a defeat of Oregon 49-3.
The Red & Black is offering a new podcast called Between The Headphones, where our Georgia football reporters discuss the Bulldogs' season each week. Here is episode one.
Be sure to subscribe to Between The Headphones anywhere you get your podcasts.
For more Georgia football coverage, visit redandblack.com/gameday.
Monday, April 25th, 2022 was the last day to register to vote for the May 24th local election. This week, we will discuss the candidates who are on the ballot for mayor, governor, and the United States House of representatives.
First, we’ll be speaking with news desk contributor Erin Diel about her coverage of the Stacy Abrams 2022 gubernatorial campaign tour.
Then, news desk contributor Alander Rocha will discuss the 10th district GOP forum hosted by the UGA college republicans.
Finally, diversity, equity and inclusion chair and newsdesk assistant Dania Kalaji will give us an overview of this year’s mayoral candidates.
Please note that while we are covering a large range of candidates from city and state elections in this episode, these are not the only candidates running for office. For a complete list of who to expect on your ballot, visit our Athens Election 2022 explainer.
This week host Midori Jenkins brings coverage of our April 28th paper edition. In this episode, enterprise reporter Emily Garcia talks about her article on leadership concerns and lack of morale at Oglethorpe Avenue Elementary School.
In this episode, host Alex Anteau brings you the Earth Day Special Edition Episode.
First we will be speaking with Assistant Opinion Editor, Emma Griffin about her research into climate change for the Red & Black’s April 21st opinion column.
Then, culture contributor Ellie Pool joins us to speak on climate anxiety and what UGA students are doing to cope.
This week, host Abbey Clark speaks with Emmy Peach and Ashton Cooper about World Autism Acceptance Month which is celebrated throughout April. This month aims to bring awareness and acceptance to neurodivergent individuals.
Every April, the UGA football team takes to Sanford stadium where members face each other in an intra-team matchup.The highly anticipated off season game gives fans a glimpse of next season’s team and a chance to watch new signees play.
In this episode, we’ll be speaking with campus news editor Caitlin Farmer about how local businesses are gearing up for the big game.
Then, culture contributor, Grace Stahl, joins us to talk about the Redcoat marching band and the lesser known importance of G Day.
Finally, assistant sports editor Molly Linder will discuss the Bulldog’s fall 2023 team composition.
This years G-Day game occurred on April 16, 2022.
Ampersand Magazine is the Red & Blacks arts and culture publication, back with a new issue for the first time since it went on hiatus in 2019.
First, we will be speaking with managing editor Erin Kenney about the re-launch of Ampersand Magazine and her article about the Food For All program’s partnership with daily coop groceries.
Then, senior special publications editor Nava Rawls will join us to talk about her article on the Achachi International Market and the connections between food and memory.
Our final guest is culture contributor Libby Hobbs here to talk about efforts to bring cultural diversity to UGA’s Dance department.
This week we will be discussing our April 5th Paper edition. In this episode, we speak with Dania Kalaji about her article on religious diversity at UGA.
In this episode, we discuss our March 31 paper edition. First, we will be speaking with sports editor Stuart Steele about UGA’s new women’s basketball head coach, Katie Abrahamson-Henderson.
Then, news desk assistant and diversity, equity and inclusion chair Dania Kalaji joins us to discuss her work as DEI chair and how the Red & Black is striving to provide more equitable coverage of underrepresented groups in our community.
In this episode, host Alex Anteau is joined by Julianna Washburn to talk about her article on Trans Day of Visibility – a day of celebration, reflection and protest for the LGBT+ community.
This week, we will be speaking will Lilly Kersh about her article on the history of discriminatory rules for women at UGA and the students who paved the way for a more equitable future.
Then, Libby Hobbs discusses her article about the one year anniversary of the Atlanta Spa Shooting.
Finally, Maddie Brechtel details her profile on Naoko Uno of the band Calico Vision, a vaccine researcher by day and a psychedelic rock musician by night.
This week we will be discussing our March 17 paper edition. First, Sports editor Stuart Steel speaks about the firing of former UGA basketball coach Tom Crean and his replacement, Mike White. Then, News Desk Assistant and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Chair, Dania Kalaji, discusses her article on UGA’s first spring break since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This week's podcast focuses on news and opinion coverage about how residents of Athens, Ga. have been affected by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
First, we will be joined by Campus News Editor, Caitlin Farmer to discuss her coverage of a pro-Ukraine rally that took place in downtown Athens on Monday, February 28th, 2022.
Then, News Desk Contributor, Khushi Kapadia shares her research on what members of the Athens community are doing to provide humanitarian aid for those affected by the crisis.
Lastly, Sarah Martynov, an opinion guest columnist of both Russian and Ukrainian heritage, joins us for a conversation about how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has affected her family and the citizens living through the crisis.
Editor’s note: This week’s host, Alex Anteau, is from Russia and wrote an opinion article about the invasion for The Red and Black’s website. The second half of this episode will contain the personal views of both Alex and a guest columnist of Ukrainian heritage.
This week we will discuss our March 3rd paper edition. First, we will speak with Elizabeth Rymarev, culture contributor about her article on exchange student experiences. Then, Ty Young discusses his feature on Harry Sims.
This week we will discuss our February 24th issue. Our host, Midori Jenkins speaks with Libby Hobbs, culture contributor about her article on the black history month dance performance of ‘Ubuntu.'
This week we will discuss our February 17th issue. First, we will be speaking with Sydney Bishop, culture contributor about Matt Turbeville and the Flowerland Shop. Then, Dania Kalaji news desk assistant and DEI chair, talks about UGA student, Elijah Odunade competing on “Jeopardy!”
This week we will discuss our February 11th issue. First, we will be speaking with Martina Essert, assistant culture editor about the Lunar New Year. Then, Lilly Kersh, newsletter editor and contributor to the culture desk, talks about her feature on Gwendolyn Payton.
In this episode, we discuss the Associated Collegiate Press Clips and Clicks Awards which honor student journalism published between August first and December 17th, 2021.
This week we are joined by three Red & Black journalists whose written pieces were among the top three selected in their respective categories.
First, Assistant Podcast Editor, Alex Anteau interviews Culture Editor, Maddy Franklin, about her story “Finding beauty in death: A day in the life of the Oconee Hill Cemetery Caretakers” (published on November 16th) which placed first in the feature writing category.
Then, we’ll hear from Assistant News Editor Dania Kalaji, who wrote “UGA professor resigns mid-class after student refuses to wear mask” (published on August 27th), and placed second in the news writing category.
Finally, Campus News Editor Caitlin Farmer will join us to talk about her story “Never-ending”: UGA students seek mental health support during in-person semester” (published on November 4th) which placed third in the feature writing category.
This week we will discuss our January 27th issue. First, we will be speaking with Simran Kaur Malhotra, the Health Editor about the rise of COVID-19 cases as a result of the new Omicron Variant and its impact on healthcare providers.
Then, Carson Barrett, contributor to the opinion desk, talks about his article on the block by the Supreme Court of President Biden’s vaccine requirement.
This week we will discuss our January 20th issue. First, we will be speaking with Martina Essert, the assistant culture editor and Caitlin Farmer, news desk assistant about the Georgia Homicide Victim's Families Rights Act of 2022.
Then, Maegan Taback, assistant opinion editor, talks about her article on eating disorders at UGA.
In this episode, The Front Page Podcast commemorates the 2021 National Championship game between the Georgia Bulldogs and Alabama Crimson Tide. First, Jake Jennings, assistant sports editor talks about his article on Stetson Bennett's decision to switch to a using a flip phone during the 2021-2022 football season. Then, Drew Hubbard, sports editor, speaks about his article on the legacy of the Bulldog national championship appearances and the relationship between the 1980 and 2021 teams.
This week, we will discuss our December 2 SEC Championship Preview. First, we will speak with Jack Duffey, a sports desk beat reporter, about his article on the matchup between the Georgia Bulldogs and Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship game to be played on December 4, 2021.
Secondly, we speak with Katherine Lewis, assistant sports editor, about the standout players on the Georgia football team who have set up the bulldogs up for success in the post season.
In this episode, we discuss our November 18th issue. First, Caitlin Farmer, a contributor to the news desk, talks about her article on the new UGA ride-share program.
Secondly, Emma Griffin, a contributor to the opinion desk, expresses the importance of sustainability this time of year and how to implement these habits into everyday practices.
On this weeks episode, we talk with Caitlin Farmer, a news contributor, about her article on the increase in UGA students seeking mental health support this semester.
Lilly Kersh, a contributor to the culture desk, is also featured to discuss her article on UGA Affirmations, a popular meme account that has emerged as a means of connection and relatability between students.
In this weeks episode, we discuss the November 11th paper. First, Nimra Ahmad, the culture editor, sheds light on Athens Pride Week.
Nava Rawls, assistant special publications editor, discusses the UGA Theater performance of Rent the Musical on opening night.
In this week's episode, we sit down to speak in-depth about the rivalry between the University of Georgia and the University of Florida. First, with an interview from sports editor, Drew Hubbard, we examine the discrepancy between the number of times the teams have played the annual game. Secondly, assistant culture editor, Martina Essert discusses another rivalry tradition, Frat Beach, and its fashion history.
To end the semester, we hear from a University of Georgia student celebrating Ramadan, and we hear about an Athens music education nonprofit.
Dania Kalaji, news contributor and outreach manager, discusses her experience celebrating Ramadan at UGA. Business reporter Mikaela Cohen talks about an Athens couple who give students music lessons. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
The Red & Black will wrap up spring content this week. We will be back in the beginning of June. For UGA and Athens news updates as well as Georgia sports notifications, download the Red & Black NOW app today.
This month's print issue focused on the dual themes of Georgia football and sustainability, in honor of G-Day and Earth Day, respectively. April 17 was G-Day, and April 22 is Earth Day.
We hear from sports contributor Katherine Lewis about the time football played their G-Day scrimmage at Clarke Central High School. In sustainability, we hear from special publications senior editor, Anna Thomas, about the threat to native bee populations. We also hear from contributor Nathalee Simoneau about food insecurity in Athens and at UGA. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
You can read the April print issue on our website, or you can pick up a print copy at select locations on campus and around town.
Our editor in chief, Sherry Liang, reflects on the March 16 Atlanta spa shootings, when a white man killed eight people, six of whom were Asian women.
Liang talks with Red & Black alumna Rachel Priest, who is now a content editor at the Bitter Southerner. Priest wrote a column about the shootings called "A Target on Our Backs." Liang and Priest are two of the few Asian editors to work at The Red & Black.
This episode is co-produced by Liang and Priest.
Excluding tournaments, the University of Georgia club hockey team had 31 games on its 2020-21 schedule. All but an April 6 matchup with Auburn have been canceled. Senior Kyle Harris added he’s “99% sure it’s not going to happen.”
In this week's podcast, sports editor Austin Roper talks about the team's lost season. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
You can read more about the Ice Dawg seniors' missed final season here.
Just over one year ago, on March 15, 2020, Athens-Clarke County confirmed its first three cases of COVID-19. We are revisiting these last 12 months in coronavirus news for our March print issue.
In this podcast, breaking news reporter Sydney Dangremond talks about the unhoused community's experience with COVID-19 in Athens. Contributor Elise Kim talks about her opinion article on confronting anti-Asian prejudice, which has accelerated since the pandemic. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
You can find the digital version of the March print issue of The Red & Black here.
The University of Georgia was Georgia Power's No. 1 energy buyer in northeast Georgia in fiscal year 2019. The university bought more than 300 million kilowatt hours of electricity during that time.
In this episode, contributor Alyssa Ginn breaks down the university's environmental footprint. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
The Belong ticket won the University of Georgia Student Government Association election Friday. The ticket consists of Carter Marks, Jasmine Gresham and Shelly Chummar.
News contributor Ellie Shafer breaks down the election and what to expect from the executive ticket-elect. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
Georgia baseball won its opening series Sunday, Feb. 21 against Evansville. The team has had to handle losing top players to the MLB Draft and COVID-19 adjustments.
Sports editor Austin Roper and managing editor William Newlin talk about their observations and the team's future. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
This week's podcast previews the February print issue of The Red & Black, which focuses on gender and sexuality at the University of Georgia and in Athens. Stories include the lack of women coaches in Georgia sports and a column about being a queer journalist.
Editor-in-chief Sherry Liang and managing editor William Newlin talk about the paper's theme, while assistant sports editors Drew Hubbard and Sydney Kohne talk about the lack of women coaches. Digital producer Sarah Detwiler hosts.
University of Georgia students like junior Chris Lim invested in GameStop in January. The video game retailer's stock surged after small-time investors bought shares to show their strength against hedge funds. In this episode, digital producer Sarah Detwiler interviews Lim and reporters Emily Garcia and Sydney Dangremond, who wrote about UGA students' involvement in the stock surge.
In the 1960s, UGA destroyed Linnentown - a historically Black community - to make way for Creswell, Russel and Brumby Hall. In this week's episode, reporter Henry Queen talks to Hattie Thomas Whitehead about her experience living in Linnentown and why members of the community are speaking out.
Local Athens record shops Wuxtry Records and Low Yo Yo Stuff records have worked to overcome the challenges of COVID-19 and corporatization of the record store industry. In this week's episode, contributor Andrew Benzinger discusses his story on how the shops have managed their business.
The Georgia men's basketball season is underway with the Bulldogs winning their first game of the season 85-75 against Florida A&M on Nov. 29. This week, we talk with sports editor Andy Walsh about how this season's team will fill the void left by Anthony Edwards and adjust to COVID-19 impacting the schedule.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted the Black community in Athens. Despite only one-third of the Athens population being Black, the majority of hospitalizations are Black people.
The early summer protests and COVID-19 pandemic had reversing effects on the Black-owned business sector in the United States. In this episode, bakeries in Northeast Georgia, which are referred to as "third places" — the locations that consumers visit between work and home that were adversely impacted by the pandemic — discuss the impact of both events on their revenue, customer base and business model.
We're joined by Red & Black Football Writers Augusta Stone, William Newlin and Austin Roper to talk about what to look out for as the Bulldogs travel to Tuscaloosa, and how our writers think the game will go.
We go over the biggest matchup of the day: Alabama's offense and UGA's defense. We also go into a smaller — no, bigger! — section of this matchup: Alabama's offensive line against UGA's front seven. Austin Roper believes this game will be won or lost in the trenches, and he makes his case for why.
We also discuss how Nick Saban potentially not being on the sideline could affect the game. No more than 10 minutes after recording, news came out that Saban might be on the sideline at kickoff. We left the conversation in because it's still possible Saban is not allowed to coach, and our conversation asks some interesting questions: How much does an absent head coach affect a team? Is it fair to put an asterisk on the game if Georgia wins? Which team is this game more important to?
This week, instead of an X’s and O’s football preview, we speak with our Editor in Chief and football beat writer Augusta Stone about UGA Football’s response to the Black Lives Matter movement.
Augusta’s story this week details the program’s response. Here, we talk about how players have spoken out apart from their program, and what that means.
This week, we speak with News Assistant Foster Steinbeck about what’s happening in the State House of Representatives District 117 race.
A recent survey from a market research group named "The Voter Survey," had a series of questions undermining Mokah Jasmine Johnson’s campaign. Republican Incumbent Houston Gaines, released a statement on Facebook saying his campaign has not conducted any polling this election cycle. The consultancy, "The Voter Survey," has only existed online since this May. On Facebook, the consultancy’s page has only one follower, no substantive posts and a dead end website.
We talk with Foster about his research into the consultancy, and what the reactions have been within the District 117 race.
This week, we did some socially distanced, open air on the street reporting, talking to students about their experiences with the new dining hall systems. The generally constructive answers surprised us, as freshmen and non-freshmen alike found bright spots in UGA Dining Services handling of the situation.
We've already covered the logistical changes to dining on campus, so this show is focused on students' reactions and opinions.
This week, we discuss the University of Georgia's reopening with two professors who signed onto the recent faculty petition condemning the move. Dr. Mark Ebell, epidemiology and biostatistics director at UGA's College of Public Health, and Dr. Amy Trauger, professor in UGA's Department of Geography, each give their thoughts on the university's reopening.
Today, we discuss what you need to know about the University of Georgia's return to campus plans for fall 2020. We touch on UGA's class attendance policies, back-up plans, residence hall changes, Georgia football, bus routes and more — and how COVID-19 is affecting all of it.
To listen to our news editor talk about COVID-19 precautions in classrooms, attendance policies and about the dining halls, listen at 1:13.
To listen to our special publications social media editor discuss policies at the residence halls, listen at 16:34.
Listen to our assistant news editor discuss about changed bus routes at 20:20.
Finally, listen to our sports editor talk about he knows so far about UGA Football at 22:38.
From COVID-19 to protests, our summer staff has been nothing short of busy while working remotely. This week, we’re re-capping our summer podcast episodes with The Red & Black’s Editor-in-Chief and managing editor. We’ll revisit some of our most important episodes and give you updates on pressing topics such as the status of bars in Athens and the University of Georgia's fall semester.
Click the link to listen, or hear us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
AthFest Music & Arts festival took over downtown Athens every June for 23 years. For the first time in AthFest history, AthFest weekend — what was supposed to be the weekend of June 25-28 — was void of the music, food and fundraising that had become an annual tradition in Athens due to COVID-19.
On today’s episode, culture editor Anna Thomas speaks with four people involved with the annual AthFest festival.
Today, we’re hearing from three former Georgia Bulldogs who were planning on participating in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The worldwide event was postponed for the first time since World War II due to COVID-19. While the event was rescheduled for 2021, a lot can happen in a year for athletes.
From the sports desk, sports editor William Newlin and digital producer Jasmina Charania spoke with former UGA athletes about the postponement and how their plans have been affected.
We’re hearing from Black activists who are leading the protests movement in Athens in today’s episode. Nationwide protests have continued for more than a month, calling for racial justice and support for the Black Lives Matter movement. On a local level, Black women continue to step up as leaders of the activism movement in Athens.
Enterprise editor Anila Yoganathan and news assistant Gabriela Miranda spoke with UGA sociology student Ashley Crooks-Allen and county commissioner Mariah Parker about their activism and about intersectionality in the movement.
We’re breaking down the University of Georgia’s virtual new student orientation.
For most UGA students, attending orientation is their first step on campus as a college student. A night of summer camp away from home. It’s their first taste of dining hall food, their first chance to take part in UGA’s traditions. It’s where orientees get to jump in the iconic North Campus fountain, where they learn how to “Call the Dawgs” and where they make some of their first lasting memories in Athens.
But due to COVID-19, this program had to move entirely online.
We talked to an orientation leader and an incoming freshman about their online orientation experience.
June is usually a month to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising and the Supreme Court’s decision to legalize same-sex marriage. But with the nationwide fight for racial justice and COVID-19 safety concerns, this year’s Pride Month looks a little different.
We spoke with two Black LGBTQ UGA students to reflect on this month and on intersectionality.
We’re revisiting a feat that has only happened once in the history of University of Georgia history. The Red & Black sports editor, William Newlin, reported the story on the 30 year anniversary of when the Diamond Dogs won the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. The team hasn't been able to take home the championship title since that fateful day in early June 1990.
Protests calling for racial justice and police department reform have taken place for the past two weeks in Athens. On today's episode, we talk with our photo editor, Taylor Gerlach, about her experience covering protests and our editorial policy about protesters' anonymity.
Read her article about covering protests here.
Protesters have taken to the streets of Athens to call for racial justice after the deaths of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd and other black Americans. On today's episode of The Front Page, we take you through Sunday, May 31 to Saturday, June 6, which were last week's two biggest protests in Athens.
We spoke with a protestor who was shot by what he says were "rubber bullets," with a protestor who was tested for COVID-19 and with a brother-and-sister protesting duo who had words of advice for those who want to be better white allies.
Our news assistant Gabriela Miranda speaks with Shawntell Pace, a member of the black community at the University of Georgia, about coping with discrimination, micro-aggressions and the recent deaths affecting the black community. Pace founded The Healing Circle, a support group for black students that aims to create a communal space and offer guidance about accessing mental health services. We ask her about racism, her studies and what the black community needs right now.
This podcast is featured in The Red & Black’s new series, The Minority Report. This series focuses on minority group voices and their experiences when injustices, deaths, protests and current events affect their community.
Read Gabriela’s story on The Red & Black website on Tuesday, June 2.
This week, we kick off our summer coverage by talking to our enterprise editor Anila Yoganathan on her story about the changing bar scene in Athens, Georgia. Bars in town have lost $4 million in liquor and mixed drinks sales from their closures due to COVID-19. Governor Brian Kemp's executive order expires on May 31, meaning that bars could potentially re-open as soon as June 1. As that date approaches, bars in town are beginning to think about whether or not they'll re-open and how they'll continue to stay afloat.
We also spoke with Jon McRae, owner of the Athens bar Sister Louisa's Church, about how he plans to stay in business and whether or not he'll re-open if he's able to after May 31.
Read Anila's story here.
We have been doing a lot of COVID-19-related coverage in the past weeks, focusing on specific groups. This week, we try to collect a range of Athens-based perspectives. We speak with a business owner, a student and an Uber driver about how the pandemic has affected them and what they do.
Since the University of Georgia suspended in person instruction, some students have not been back to campus since March 6, the Friday before spring break. Other students, for a variety of reasons, have remained in their on-campus housing. This week, our guest tells us what it was like to be on an empty, socially distanced Athens campus.
This week, we speak with Gabriela Miranda, campus news editor, about how her upcoming story on how undocumented families are coping with COVID-19. Without access to healthcare or aid from the current government stimulus package, undocumented residents in Athens are lacking some of the basic protections against the pandemic.
Gabriela spoke with a few families and community organizers about first hand experiences and what is being done to alleviate the stress. Look out for her story later this week.
This week, we talk to students who have had to transition from hands-on, in-person classes — music and art — to online classes. We'll see how they’ve adjusted so far and what new classes look like.
We speak with three students from three different areas of study: Will Ruff studies viola and jazz; Klée Schell studies printmaking; Emma Grimsley studies fabric design.
You can find each of the guests here:
Will Ruff (@willruffmusic), Klée Schell (@badtoadboy), Emma Grimsley (@emma.grimsley.art)
This week, we speak with University of Georgia professors about the switch to remote learning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Professors from across disciplines talk about the challenges, or lack thereof, in switching to completely online instruction, and they focus on some silver linings of the current modes of instruction.
This week, we speak with performers in Athens about how COVID-19 and subsequent precautions are changing the way they work.
Forrest Whitlark and Kelly Bouchillon of the band AFTM talk about how they are getting through after having to cancel weeks worth of shows. Plus, Evie Jones of Decaf Comedy talks about how comedians are feeling as they too cancel gigs. And, Owen Hunt of Flying Squid Comedy talks about how he and other comics are using different outlets for revenue and creativity.
This week, we speak with news editor Spencer Donovan, culture editor Savannah Sicurella and sports editor Augusta Stone about how COVID-19 is affecting each of their desks. How is the Athens government responding to the pandemic? How are businesses affected? And, what will happen as all university sports are cancelled.
This episode is longer than usual, so here are the timestamps for each conversation:
News: 0:33 - 8:15
Culture: 8:20 - 13:30
Sports: 13:35 - 20:03
This week we speak with enterprise reporter Sherry Liang about high schools in Georgia. Nearly a quarter of the fall 2019 freshman class came from about 20 high schools in Georgia, and every school is within 10 miles of another.
We talk about where these schools are located, some demographic trends and what the students from those schools said about coming to the University of Georgia.
This week, we talk about the dedication of the new Mary Frances Early College of Education. Early, the college's namesake, was the university's first black graduate, and she is the first black person to have a school or college named after them. We speak with Staff Writer Erin Schilling, who attended the dedication.
This week, we be look into each Student Government Association ticket, diving into their platforms and informing you on who you can vote for on election day, February 26. We speak with our social media editor and SGA beat reporter Megan Mittelhammer about the tickets and the executive campaign process.
This week on The Front Page, Donnell Gresham Jr. is Georgia basketball's only graduate transfer. In addition to being the team's most senior player, Gresham Jr. started following a vegan diet shortly before becoming a bulldog. We talk about Gresham Jr.'s role on the team, and why he decided to cut animal products from his diet.
We also speak with Jana Heitmeyer, director of sports nutrition for the University of Georgia Athletic Association. Heitmeyer speaks about the specifics of sports nutrition and how the program works with Gresham Jr. and other athletes.
This week on The Front Page, we talk about The Healing Circle, a support group for black women in Athens. We speak to news contributor Joshua Walker about the group. Then, we are joined by the The Healing Circle's founder Shawntell Pace and facilitator Tanisha Pelham. We speak about their perspectives on mental health and community, the mission of The Healing Circle and why they saw a need for the support group.
You can find our podcasts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!
This week on The Front Page, we sit down with assistant sports editor Austin Roper to discuss his profile on Steve Eirish, the Zamboni driver for Georgia club hockey. How has a non-player become an essential part of UGA hockey game culture? We discuss Eirish's traditions, how he got to where he is today and the personality behind the Zamboni.
This week on The Front Page, we sit down with campus news editor Gabriela Miranda and talk about business in Athens. How do small businesses fare as larger companies — such as Target and Wayfair — move in? What do these larger companies see as their role in Athens? And, how are people reacting to the change? We discuss how small business owners, large company spokespeople, residents and local government view the changing Athens landscape.
On this week's episode, digital producer Kyra Posey speaks with staff writer Samantha Perez about the single sign-on failure that left students unable to view their schedule through Athena and eLearning Commons on Jan. 7, the first day of classes. In addition to outlining the problems caused by the shutdown, we discuss student reactions, issues students experienced when attempting to resister for courses through Athena in November 2019 and how the University of Georgia plans to resolve these difficulties moving forward.
On our 15th episode, sports editor Augusta Stone recaps the 2019 Georgia football season and discusses the news that quarterback Jake Fromm will enter the NFL draft.