Good morning, Athens.

U.S. News and World Report released the 2026-2027 high school rankings on Aug.

20, with North Oconee High School earning the top rank among Athens-area schools. The ratings show how local schools compare on graduation rates + college readiness.

On Aug. 20, The Princeton Review ranked UGA among the nation’s top public universities for value and awarded high marks for its alumni network, financial aid, and internship placement.

This ranking underscores UGA’s dedication to affordable education + student career support.

If Congress approves the Sunshine Protection Act, Georgia’s permanent daylight saving time law will change winter sunrise and sunset times (for example, Athens will see sunrise around 8:38 a.m.) by about one hour; for now, clocks follow the current schedule with the next change on Sunday, Nov. 1.

St. Mary’s Health Care System holds a free public groundbreaking ceremony today at 11 a.m. at its Athens hospital (1230 Baxter St) to start building a new 15,000 sqft Center for Heart, Vascular and Neurosciences, which will open in Oct.

2027 to expand treatment options for stroke, heart attack and cancer.

Waffle House is testing a new taco menu at select Georgia locations near Athens, including Bethlehem at 213 Exchange Boulevard, Statham at 1917 Atlanta Highway, and Winder at 19 West May Street, with feedback positive since Aug.

20. Customers are invited to try the temporary *tacos* as the trial continues.

Georgia linebacker Chris Cole is set for a breakout season as he takes on a bigger role for the Bulldogs and works to boost his play — coach Kirby Smart praised his offseason training for preparing him to lead the team.

The University of Georgia soccer team played a commemorative match against James Madison at Sanford Stadium in Athens on Thursday, Aug.

20 — marking the 30th anniversary of the 1996 Olympic women’s soccer gold-medal match — and won 3-0.