Good morning, Athens.

A UGA study released on July 22 found that people experiencing food insecurity in north and northeast metro Atlanta face challenges finding food pantries because poverty is dispersed and transportation is limited.

Researchers call for improved coordination among food banks and expanded transit assistance.

Georgia running back Dante Dowdell suffered serious injuries from an ATV accident earlier this month and is now being treated at Shepherd Center while coach Kirby Smart said his return to play remains uncertain.

Students in Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties face different start dates: Oconee County classes begin Aug.

3 and Athens-Clarke students return Aug. 5. Numerous open houses and supply giveaways are planned starting today (such as the Empower Pinewoods Community Resource Fair at 10 a.m.) to help families prepare.

Georgia law permits adults to ride in pickup truck beds while minors are barred on interstates, experts say.

Residents must choose in-vehicle seating since adding aftermarket options does not change the legal restrictions (violations are misdemeanors).

Tickets for the Georgia Bulldogs 2026 season are on sale now at Sanford Stadium in Athens; the season opener against Tennessee State is scheduled for Saturday, Sept.

5 at 3 p.m. ET (ticket prices and details for home and away games are available).

Georgia football will travel to Tuscaloosa on Oct.

10 to face Alabama in a prime-time game; the Bulldogs aim to secure their first regular season win in the series since 2007, setting the stage for a hard-fought contest in a charged stadium.

Kirby Smart is preparing for the college season at home while his son Andrew draws offers from Georgia Tech + Colorado State.

Local high school softball coaches have picked nominees for the preseason player of the year poll; the contest opens now and will run until Wednesday, July 29 at 5 p.m.—the winner will be announced on Monday, Aug.

10.

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.