Atlanta news, Georgia news, Breaking news from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Dickens asks top donors for $250K to help fund inauguration events

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is soliciting up to $250,000 from top donors to sponsor three days of events celebrating his second-term inauguration.

Druid Hills High modernization plan gets green light after years of debate

The estimated cost for the long-awaited project is up to $185 million.

8 Georgia theaters awarded grants totaling $500,000 for major improvements

The grant money doesn’t come from donations or through fundraising. It comes from ticket revenues generated by shows at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta.

Ex-Truett McConnell VP indicted in case tied to sex abuse probe

A White County grand jury has indicted a former Truett McConnell University vice president, accusing him of lying to a county sheriff investigator.

AJC Investigation

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Georgia districts forge their own way as troubled program faces a crossroads

School districts are dropping out of GNETS to serve students with emotional and behavioral disabilities.

‘I’m a bad kid,’ he told himself. How Georgia’s special ed program failed one child.

Parents find that it's easy to get into the GNETS program, but in some districts, difficult to leave.

Georgia’s special ed program promised help. Families say it delivered them harm.

Georgia fights 2016 federal lawsuit that demands reforms.

Ahead of her time 50 years ago, she now laments the state of GNETS

Five decades ago, Mary Wood created what is now called the Georgia Network for Educational and Therapeutic Support.

Politics

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POLITICALLY GEORGIA

John F. Kennedy resigns Senate seat to focus on lieutenant governor’s race

The Macon Republican is one of six state lawmakers running for Georgia's No. 2 job in 2026. He is the only one to step down so far.

2h ago

PHOTOS

Capitol lights up for Christmas holidays

Gov. Brian Kemp, family and others gathered Monday to light the Capitol Christmas tree at a celebration that included the Spelman Glee Club.

Raffensperger sues to scrap fundraising laws he says favor Jones in governor’s race

Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is challenging Georgia election laws he says give his Republican rival an advantage as they campaign for governor.

Firebrand state senator running for U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s seat

State Sen. Colton Moore, R-Trenton, announced plans to seek the 14th District seat, although it wasn't clear whether he will run in a special election or in November.

AJC Sports

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Gunner Stockton vs. Heisman QB finalists: The numbers when they mattered most

Gunner Stockton put up strong numbers against Georgia's best competition, but he did not make Heisman Trophy finalist status.

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AJC VARSITY

A look at 10 of the most intriguing high school football storylines of 2025

Eight championship games and two semifinals are still on the schedule, but these stories have made the 2025 season one to remember.

2h ago

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SOCCER

Here are some free-agent possibilities to consider for Atlanta United

The Five Stripes are expected to target a goalkeeper, central defender and a utility player as MLS free agency opens Wednesday.

1h ago

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MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM

Falcons’ Arthur Blank has become bad franchise owner

The Falcons were guaranteed their eighth straight losing season with a 37-9 loss to the Seahawks on Sunday. The Falcons have had just two winning seasons since 2012.

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AJC VARSITY

Former UGA QB Quincy Carter hired to coach 6A football program

Former Georgia quarterback Quincy Carter was named Monday as head football coach at Heritage of Conyers.

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YELLOW JACKETS

Haynes King named ACC offensive player of the year by AP

The Georgia Tech player thrived as a dual-threat quarterback, throwing for 2,697 yards and 12 touchdowns while running for 922 yards and 15 more scores.

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KEN SUGIURA

It seems like Cooperstown’s doors may never open for Dale Murphy

This was the fourth time Murphy’s case was in front of a veterans committee after 15 unsuccessful years on the Baseball Writers’ Association of America ballot.

Today's Videos

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Is Atlanta really the promised land for Black chefs?

Atlanta's AmericasMart sets the fashion trends months in advance

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Paramount makes hostile bid for Warner Bros., including CNN, Turner networks

Days after Netflix announced its plans to acquire the storied Hollywood institution’s studio and streaming businesses, Paramount has launched an all-cash offer.

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FROM UATL

This retiree found his artistic purpose by reclaiming Black narratives

J. Stacey Grayson’s new exhibition pieces “Ancestral Remix: Rhythms, Reflections and Fragments” together for ancestral pride.

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Sandy Springs entrepreneur faces ‘Shark Tank’ sharks with collectible stockings

ABC’s business reality series gave Kate Stice Stewart a gift she’s been seeking for years: a coveted spot on the show.

Georgia and Metro News

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Atlanta’s short-term rentals are starting to fill up for the World Cup

Airbnb is predicting about 6,000 guests will stay with Atlanta hosts during the World Cup, representing about 45,000 guest nights.

Man pleads guilty in 2022 stabbing death of Buckhead grandmother

Three years after the 77-year-old was found stabbed to death, Antonio Brown pleaded guilty to her murder, avoiding a trial set for this week. He got 2 life sentences.

‘A lot of blame, but not enough action’: Atlanta leaders lack path to fix jail

Stakeholders across Atlanta and Fulton County grapple with a complex web of issues that contribute to overcrowding, crumbling structure.

Medical company announces expansion in Columbus with 480 jobs

A medical logistics company that makes health care kits announced an expansion plan for its Columbus operations, which will add 480 new jobs to the region.

Food and Dining

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Atlanta kava bars offer island culture, alcohol-free social spaces

Kava bars have a growing presence, including in Atlanta. Some focus on the cultural and traditional benefits, while others offer kava to enjoy while socializing and relaxing.

1h ago

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The AJC’s 10 best new restaurants of 2025

AJC dining critics reviewed and rated more than 30 restaurants in 2025 while visiting many more. These 10 stood out as the best new restaurants of the year.

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Mellow Mushroom returns to downtown Decatur, and more from metro Atlanta’s dining scene

Three metro-area cooks celebrated a milestone, a new studio for cooking classes opened, and a Thai restaurant group announced its next concept in the Atlanta restaurant scene.

Latest Headlines

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POLITICALLY GEORGIA

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OPINION

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Holiday Spirit

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Preparing to pass the torch after 30 years of ‘Christmas Canteen’ 

Interview with Aurora Theatre artistic director Ann-Carol Pence, who, after 30 years, is taking her final bow as music director of its holiday show "Christmas Canteen."

2h ago

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This Marietta salon helps Santas get holiday-ready

Long before the mall visits and tree lightings, the magical transformation begins.

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MADE IN GEORGIA

How a Christmas movie inspired a reluctant baker to sell ‘yamalicious’ treats

Yam Foods turns out sweet potato products from cookies to ice cream to syrup.

Opinion and Voices

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DAVID PLAZAS

Middle-class housing crisis worsens and requires urgent action and attention

The goal of preserving and building affordable housing for Atlanta low-income and homeless residents is commendable, but the middle class needs more attention and support.

2h ago

GUEST COLUMN

Fulton County doesn’t need a new jail. Here’s why it’s a bad investment.

As Fulton County weighs options to address the substandard conditions in its jail, a former board commission chairman urges leaders to choose diversion over incarceration.

PATRICIA MURPHY

The 2020 election interference case is gone, but it can’t be forgotten

The decision by a Georgia prosecutor not to pursue the massive Trump election interference case leaves some bad deeds unpunished.

GUEST COLUMN

Mayor Andre Dickens: Atlanta has a moral imperative to fix city’s inequality

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens says the city's inequalities require investing deeply in distressed neighborhoods. A key to this is extending Tax Allocation Districts for funding.

GUEST COLUMN

Medicare open enrollment period is ending. Make your health a priority.

The Medicare Open Enrollment period ends on Sunday, Dec. 7, and Atlanta consumers should not take their health and preventive medical care for granted.

Mike Luckovich

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OPINION

Mike Luckovich: How to look better.

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OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Santa Cashin’ in

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OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Rude dinner comment

Latest news

Politics

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Firebrand state senator running for Marjorie Taylor Greene’s seat

State Sen. Colton Moore, R-Trenton, announced plans to seek the 14th District seat, although it wasn't clear whether he will run in a special election or in November.

Raffensperger sues to scrap fundraising laws he says favor Jones in governor’s race

Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is challenging Georgia election laws he says give his Republican rival an advantage as they campaign for governor.

Who will replace Marjorie Taylor Greene in Congress?

Now that U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced her plans to resign, attention turns to who might replace her in Georgia's 14th Congressional District.

Metro Atlanta

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A.M. ATL: Strangers in your house

Morning, y'all. Your Dec. 9 update: The World Cup could mean a world-class market for short-term rentals next year, the AJC investigates a special education program and more.

2h ago

Dickens asks top donors for $250K to help fund inauguration events

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens is soliciting up to $250,000 from top donors to sponsor three days of events celebrating his second-term inauguration.

Georgia districts forge their own way as troubled program faces a crossroads

School districts are dropping out of GNETS to serve students with emotional and behavioral disabilities.

Georgia

Credit: The Fox Theatre

8 Georgia theaters awarded grants totaling $500,000 for major improvements

The grant money doesn’t come from donations or through fundraising. It comes from ticket revenues generated by shows at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta.

Ex-Truett McConnell VP indicted in case tied to sex abuse probe

A White County grand jury has indicted a former Truett McConnell University vice president, accusing him of lying to a county sheriff investigator.

RaceTrac murder trial begins for ex-UGA football player Ahkil Crumpton

Former Georgia football player Ahkil Crumpton faces state murder charges in Oconee County trial after federal conviction in a 2021 killing.

Opinion

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Readers write

2h ago

OPINION

Middle-class housing crisis worsens and requires urgent action and attention

The goal of preserving and building affordable housing for Atlanta low-income and homeless residents is commendable, but the middle class needs more attention and support.

2h ago

OPINION

Fulton County doesn’t need a new jail. Here’s why it’s a bad investment.

As Fulton County weighs options to address the substandard conditions in its jail, a former board commission chairman urges leaders to choose diversion over incarceration.

Falcons

Credit: AP

Falcons’ Raheem Morris feels he has 100% of Arthur Blank’s support

“He is 100% in support of me,” Falcons coach Raheem Morris says of owner Arthur Blank. “The support isn’t an issue."

Falcons try to rebound after getting blown out

The Falcons signed wide receiver Malik Heath, who was placed on waivers by the Packers, and released safety Jordan Fuller.

5 things we learned from the Falcons’ loss Sunday to the Seahawks

The loss to the Seahawks means the Falcons are officially eliminated from the playoffs and tie the mark for most consecutive losing seasons in franchise history with eight.

Bulldogs

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Gunner Stockton vs. Heisman QB finalists: The numbers when they mattered most

Gunner Stockton put up strong numbers against Georgia's best competition, but he did not make Heisman Trophy finalist status.

Former UGA QB Quincy Carter hired to coach 6A football program

Former Georgia quarterback Quincy Carter was named Monday as head football coach at Heritage of Conyers.

RaceTrac murder trial begins for ex-UGA football player Ahkil Crumpton

Former Georgia football player Ahkil Crumpton faces state murder charges in Oconee County trial after federal conviction in a 2021 killing.

Georgia Tech

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Haynes King named ACC offensive player of the year by AP

King was named the AP league offensive player of the year, Bain was defensive player of the year and Elliott was named coach of the year.

Georgia Tech, BYU coaches bonded by favorite Pop-Tarts, Orlando connections

Georgia Tech's Brent Key was an assistant for 11 years at UCF and met his wife in Orlando, and the wife of BYU's Kalani Sitake is from Central Florida.

Brent Key has “36″ names of candidates to be Georgia Tech’s next OC

Georgia Tech coach Brent Key said Sunday that he he has narrowed his list of candidates to replace offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner down to 36 names.

Hawks

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Hawks two-way forward Jacob Toppin to miss remainder of season

Jacob Toppin signed his two-way qualifying offer in July. The Hawks said Toppin sustained a right shoulder injury on Nov. 29 playing with the College Park Skyhawks.

Hawks to use short break to recharge and find ‘good juice’ after heavy load

Atlanta is one of 22 teams with a few days to practice and rest while the NBA Cup knockout stage goes on. The Hawks next play Friday vs. the Pistons.

Johnson’s second straight triple-double boosts Hawks over Wizards

Jalen Johnson's second straight triple-double led the Hawks to a 131-116 win over the Washington Wizards on Saturday night.

Braves

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

It seems like Cooperstown’s doors may never open for Dale Murphy

This was the fourth time Murphy’s case was in front of a veterans committee after 15 unsuccessful years on the Baseball Writers’ Association of America ballot.

Braves can’t ‘count on’ Joe Jimenez entering 2026

‘We can’t make plans around him at this point,’ Anthopoulos says.

Weekend Reflections: If Jeff Kent belongs in Hall, so does Dale Murphy

We also take a look at Kennesaw State overcoming bad calls, SEC having a CFP edge, and ACC having a CFP problem.

United

Credit: AP

Here are some free-agent possibilities to consider for Atlanta United

The Five Stripes are expected to target a goalkeeper, central defender and a utility player as MLS free agency opens Wednesday.

1h ago

Work begins for Atlanta and World Cup now most teams are known

Dan Corso says Atlanta will have equivalent of five Super Bowls in town during tournament.

Spain highlights Atlanta’s World Cup matches

High Schools

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

A look at 10 of the most intriguing high school football storylines of 2025

Eight championship games and two semifinals are still on the schedule, but these stories have made the 2025 season one to remember.

2h ago

Georgia high school football coaching changes: Heritage (Conyers) hires former UGA QB

Several high schools made coaching changes during the regular season, and several more have already announced openings in the last few days.

Former UGA QB Quincy Carter hired to coach 6A football program

Former Georgia quarterback Quincy Carter was named Monday as head football coach at Heritage of Conyers.

More Sports

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Georgia high school football coaching changes: Heritage (Conyers) hires former UGA QB

Several high schools made coaching changes during the regular season, and several more have already announced openings in the last few days.

Atlanta TV sports listings

A look at the TV listings for major sporting events for Atlanta today and this week.

After delay, Georgia Southern knows its Birmingham Bowl opponent

Sun Belt rivals Georgia Southern and App State will play in the Birmingham Bowl, ccording to Brett McMurphy of On3.

Food & Dining

Credit: Natrice Miller

Atlanta kava bars offer island culture, alcohol-free social spaces

Kava bars have a growing presence, including in Atlanta. Some focus on the cultural and traditional benefits, while others offer kava to enjoy while socializing and relaxing.

1h ago

The AJC’s 10 best new restaurants of 2025

AJC dining critics reviewed and rated more than 30 restaurants in 2025 while visiting many more. These 10 stood out as the best new restaurants of the year.

Mellow Mushroom returns to downtown Decatur, and more from metro Atlanta’s dining scene

Three metro-area cooks celebrated a milestone, a new studio for cooking classes opened, and a Thai restaurant group announced its next concept in the Atlanta restaurant scene.

UATL

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com

FROM UATL

Civil rights museum opens sweeping new gallery on Reconstruction

A sweeping new gallery at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta tells the turbulent, often tragic story of the Reconstruction Era in U.S. history.

FROM UATL

‘It’s UATL’ podcast: Keeping a positive body image

The hosts talk fad diets, BMI and Ozempic.

FROM UATL

Christian rapper Lecrae debuts poetry and essay collection ‘Set Me Free’

In an interview with UATL, the Grammy-winning Christian hip-hop artist calls his essay collection “Set Me Free: The Good News of God’s Relentless Pursuits” experimental art.

Things to Do

Credit: Jenni Girtman

Hanukkah and Kwanzaa round-up: 15 family-friendly events in Atlanta

Throughout December, families can partake in a host of festive activities to celebrate Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Here are 15 family-friendly events in Atlanta.

AJC Peachtree Road Race updates: Stay on pace

The AJC's Nicole Bennett shares an update on her training, plus info on hip pain and some inspiration from an amazing kid.

Where can I find it?

Where you can find ground sumac and where to transform an antique rug into pillows.

Lifestyle

Sea Island house sale of $30 million viewed as Georgia record

John Portman’s Sea Island residence sold this week for $30 million, the highest home price in Georgia history.

Holiday etiquette: Should you quit gifting if they don’t thank you?

Experts share how to handle unacknowledged gifts without losing your holiday spirit.

Why thousands of metro Atlanta sellers pulled their homes off the market

The number of delistings in metro Atlanta grew 41% in September from the same month a year ago, a recent report said.

Entertainment

Credit: Disney

Sandy Springs entrepreneur faces ‘Shark Tank’ sharks with collectible stockings

ABC’s “Shark Tank” gave Kate Stice Stewart a gift she’s been seeking for years: a coveted spot on the show.

Michelle Pfeiffer plays put-upon mom in Atlanta-shot Amazon Xmas film

Michelle Pfeiffer plays a mom who feels neglected by her family during Christmas in the new Amazon film "Oh. What. Fun." shot in Atlanta during the summer of 2025.

OK Go, known as the ‘treadmill guys,’ can also bring it live

OK Go, known for their viral treadmill video and many others, is also a high energy live band, coming to the Eastern on Sunday.

Travel

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DISPATCH

This sight in a Georgia town’s skyline just might bring tears to your eyes

Amid rolling Georgia farmland that is home to the Vidalia onion, an architecture-meets-agriculture ornament sits atop the Toombs County courthouse.

Pirate museum a new addition to Savannah’s maritime attractions

Savannah Pirates and Treasure Museum is the newest attraction in a city filled with history to experience in its museums, dining and even accommodations.

5 unique Southeastern museums to scratch your culture itch

Dedicated to a singular subject offers deep dives on an artist, a sports figure, a pop culture icon and more.

Wellness

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Smartphone on your kid’s Christmas list? How to know when they’re ready.

Are you thinking about gifting your child a smartphone this holiday? New research from the University of Georgia reveals how early phone use can influence their well-being.

New infant heart stent offers fresh hope for Georgia families

A Georgia couple finds hope after their child receives a first-of-its-kind stent system, placing Children's among the first hospitals to use the innovative technology.

Grady expands care with two outpatient facilities in DeKalb County

Grady Health System is expanding outpatient services to DeKalb County, strengthening its reach and impact across metro Atlanta.

Special Features

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Southern Classics — Reimagined

Aging in Atlanta

AJC Pulse Magazine

Photos

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PHOTOS: Capitol lights up for Christmas holidays

Gov. Brian Kemp, family and others gather to light the capitol Christmas tree on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025. The ceremony featured Spelman Glee Club.

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

PHOTOS: Falcons fall again Sunday, this time to Seahawks

The Atlanta Falcons lost to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, 37-9, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The loss clinched an eighth straight losing season for the Falcons.

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

PHOTOS: Georgia crushes Alabama to win SEC championship

The Georgia Bulldogs dominated the Alabama Crimson Tide in Saturday's SEC Championship Game, coming away with a convincing 28-7 victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.