Oconee|News|
Patch's Most Popular
Here are some of the most-read stories, blogs, and announcements on Oconee Patch this past week.

Email: Stephanie.Gross@patch.com
Phone: 706-206-1946
Hometown: Watkinsville, Georgia
Birthday: January 24
Bio: Stephanie comes to Patch with experience as news director at WRBN and WGHC radio stations in Clayton, Georgia. While working for GA-CA Radiocasting, she further developed a passion for local news and made lasting professional connections to many members of the community.
Stephanie received bachelor's degrees at the University of Georgia in Telecommunications Arts and Spanish. While at UGA, she danced as a Georgette with the Redcoat Marching Band (Go Dawgs!). She grew up near Cleveland, Ohio, but has lived in northeast Georgia for over 17 years.
Stephanie enjoys volunteering as an interpreter at local school systems. In her free time--which is few and far between thanks to a vibrant three-year-old daughter -- she enjoys Latin ballroom dancing with her husband and playing with her black lab and two cats (all rescues!).
Beliefs:
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable.
This disclosure is not a license for you to inject your beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that your beliefs are on the record will cause you to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know. Politics:
How would you describe your political beliefs?
I am not affiliated with any particular political party, and I describe myself as a moderate. I prefer to look at candidates as individuals and not vote based on party lines. Religion:
How religious would you consider yourself? Casual, observant, devout, non-religious?
Observant. I joined the Catholic Church on the 2011 Easter vigil and am a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Athens.
I grew up in the Lutheran Church, and have a strong faith in God. I respect other faiths and am always interested in learning about them.
Here are some of the most-read stories, blogs, and announcements on Oconee Patch this past week.

Miss a job opportunity last week on Patch? Here's your chance to check them out one more time before the new week begins.
The time has come to announce the winner of our random drawing. Share your photos now for a chance at next week's prize.
An Oconee County Sheriff's Office K-9 unit assisted in a foot chase early Saturday afternoon.
The first of three films based on J. R. R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" tells the story of Bilbo Baggins and his adventures below and above ground.
Have you been busy baking holiday treats? Share your photos and tell us about your favorite seasonal recipes.
The Oconee County family's beloved pet, who survived an incredible 23-day journey last summer, passed away on Dec. 14.
Recent scores range from 70 to 91.
The Wolverines lost to Eagles Landing Christian Friday at the Georgia Dome.
The football team is on its way to the Class A private state championship game!
A look at top stories from Patch sites across Georgia.
Share your photos of holiday decor for a chance to have them featured on Patch.
The 2:30 p.m. game at the Georgia Dome pitting Prince Avenue Christian School against Eagles Landing Christian will be broadcast by multiple media outlets.
The donation, made Wednesday, will allow the school to move forward with plans to construct a new field house starting in January.
A look at top stories from Patch sites across Georgia.
Winter is rapidly approaching. Share the last images of autumn now and you could be our next winner.
The theft reportedly occurred at a Macon Highway address in Bishop, Ga. sometime between Dec. 5-8.
A technology surplus sale, holiday market and middle school band concert are a few of the things to know about in and around Oconee today.
A look at top stories from Patch sites across Georgia.