Alaskalink.US - OnLine

Credit: arvin.temkar@ajc.com

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.

Man accused of shooting Tifton officers dies after jail incident, officials say

A man charged with shooting two Tifton police officers has died following an “isolated incident” at the Coffee County Jail, officials confirmed.

Developer scales back UGA President’s House hotel plan after opposition

A developer has scaled back his proposed hotel on the site of the University of Georgia's historic 'President's House' after Athens residents opposed construction.

Why a metro Atlanta investor group is starting a new bank

A group of longtime community bankers is attempting to start Georgia Skyline Bank, based in Roswell.

Politics

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

Georgia Democrats flip Republican state House seat in Athens area

A narrow win by Eric Gisler continues Democratic momentum ahead of the midterm elections.

‘We’re showing up’: Fani Willis will testify before Senate committee

The Fulton County district attorney will appear before state legislators next week, her lawyer says.

U.S. attorney says more indictments of government officials coming

Georgia state Rep. Sharon Henderson was charged Monday with fraud related to government assistance. Theodore Hertzberg says the investigations are not politically motivated.

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.

AJC Investigation

Credit: arvin.temkar@ajc.com

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.

AJC Sports

Credit: Jason Getz / AJC

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.

Credit: AP

MLB

Braves have No. 9 overall pick in 2026 MLB draft

The Braves will get the No. 9 pick in the 2026 MLB draft.

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

AJC VARSITY

Brunswick football coach resigns in wake of Gainesville altercation

Garrett Grady, who led the Pirates to three region titles and a 36-10 record in four seasons, said the GHSA penalties weren’t the reason for his decision to step down.

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com

BULLDOGS

Georgia tight end cleared to play again, plans to enter transfer portal

He last played for Georgia in the Orange Bowl win at the end of the 2023 season.

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

NBA

Hawks’ Zaccharie Risacher keeps working through season bumps

Hawks second-year forward Zaccharie Risacher has had plenty of bumps. Risacher’s teammates and coaches have all the confidence that he will break out his slump.

Credit: AP

NFL

Falcons-Buccaneers on Thursday night: A battle of two slumping teams

Tampa Bay has lost four of its past five games. Atlanta has lost seven of its past eight.

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

MLB

Braves update Grant Holmes’ health status: He’s having a ‘normal offseason’

Braves pitcher Grant Holmes has been rehabbing a partially torn UCL and seems to have avoided surgery. His potential early season availability would be a major boost.

Today's Videos

Now Playing

Atlanta’s arts funding is shockingly low. Hear what one gallery owner thinks.

Atlanta's AmericasMart sets the fashion trends months in advance

Is Atlanta really the promised land for Black chefs?

Credit: Daytona Beach

You may know Daytona Beach for the 23-mile stretch of sand, scenic trails and eclectic shopping. But did you know it’s...

Credit: Humana

It’s been quite a journey for Christine Sintay, a former stay-at-home mom who took the leap into the insurance...

Credit: Delmaine Donson

Over the past four decades, advances in scientific research and medications for HIV have transformed the disease from a...

What’s filming in Georgia in December? Taraji P. Henson’s latest.

"Tyler Perry's Beauty in Black," faith-based Taraji P. Henson movie and Southern Gothic crime series are among the 29 productions filming this month in the state.

Credit: TNS

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.

Credit: Courtesy of Grant Park Candlelight Tour of Homes

Former ice cream shop, squirrel’s abode among stops on Grant Park home tour

Nods to history are present throughout most, if not all, of the 10 houses featured on this year’s self-guided Candlelight Tour of Homes in Grant Park.

Georgia and Metro News

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com

Groundbreaking and ‘homecoming’: Civic Center redevelopment finally underway

Atlanta officials broke ground on a $1B Civic Center redevelopment, starting with 148 affordable senior apartments in Old Fourth Ward.

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.

Teen in critical condition after shooting at South Fulton apartments

Police say a 15-year-old is in critical condition after being shot at a South Fulton apartment complex. Investigators remained on the scene shortly before 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Grants from the Fox Theatre will help renovate venues across Georgia

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.

Food and Dining

Credit: Courtesy of the Irish Exit

A New York-based Irish bar is headed to Atlanta’s Centennial Yards

The hospitality group behind the internationally acclaimed bar the Dead Rabbit is bringing its new concept, the Irish Exit, to downtown Atlanta.

Credit: Handout

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.

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.

Latest Headlines

Holiday Spirit

Credit: Photo by Casey Gardner Ford

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."

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com

This Marietta salon helps Santas get holiday-ready

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

Credit: Courtesy of Yams Foods

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

Credit: Marcie LaCerte

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.

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

Credit: Mike Luckovich

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: How to look better.

Credit: Mike Luckovich

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Santa Cashin’ in

Credit: Mike Luckovich

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Rude dinner comment

Latest news

Politics

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

Georgia Democrats flip Republican state House seat in Athens area

A Republican state House seat in Georgia was won by a Democrat in a special election.

U.S. attorney says more indictments of government officials coming

Georgia state Rep. Sharon Henderson was charged Monday with fraud related to government assistance. Theodore Hertzberg says the investigations are not politically motivated.

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.

Metro Atlanta

Credit: Henri Hollis

Teen in critical condition after shooting at South Fulton apartments

Police say a 15-year-old is in critical condition after being shot at a South Fulton apartment complex. Investigators remained on the scene shortly before 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Man accused of shooting Tifton officers dies after jail incident, officials say

A man charged with shooting two Tifton police officers has died following an “isolated incident” at the Coffee County Jail, officials confirmed.

Groundbreaking and `homecoming’: Civic Center redevelopment finally underway

Atlanta officials broke ground on a $1B Civic Center redevelopment, starting with 148 affordable senior apartments in Old Fourth Ward.

Georgia

Credit: AJC staff

Developer scales back UGA President’s House hotel plan after opposition

A developer has scaled back his proposed hotel on the site of the University of Georgia's historic 'President's House' after Athens residents opposed construction.

‘We’re showing up’: Fani Willis will testify before Senate committee

Fulton District Attorney Fani Willis will appear before state legislators next week about her conduct, including the prosecution of President Donald Trump, her lawyer says.

Grants from the Fox Theatre will help renovate venues across Georgia

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.

Opinion

Credit: Marcie LaCerte

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.

Readers write

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-Buccaneers on Thursday night: A battle of two slumping teams

Tampa Bay has lost four of its past five games. Atlanta has lost seven of its past eight.

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.

Bulldogs

Credit: AP

Firecracker Pete Golding brings his passion to Ole Miss sideline

The initials of the new Rebels’ head coach — “PG” — are an appropriate forewarning of Golding’s colorful football vernacular.

Georgia’s Mike Bobo a finalist for Broyles Award as top assistant coach

Georgia tight end cleared to play again, plans to enter transfer portal

He last played for Georgia in the Orange Bowl win at the end of the 2023 season.

Georgia Tech

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

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

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Hawks’ Zaccharie Risacher keeps working through season bumps

Hawks second-year forward Zaccharie Risacher has had plenty of bumps. Risacher’s teammates and coaches have all the confidence that he will break out his slump.

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.

Braves

Credit: AP

Braves have No. 9 overall pick in 2026 MLB draft

The Braves will get the No. 9 pick in the 2026 MLB draft.

Braves update Grant Holmes’ health status: He’s having a ‘normal offseason’

Braves pitcher Grant Holmes has been rehabbing a partially torn UCL and seems to have avoided surgery. His potential early season availability would be a major boost.

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.

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.

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: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com

Georgia high school football coaching changes: Brunswick job opens up

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

Lincoln County, in first title game since 2006, focuses on 2 key success areas

Coach Lee Chomskis’ team will play Bowdon for the Class A Division II championship Monday in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Brunswick football coach resigns in wake of Gainesville altercation

Garrett Grady, who led the Pirates to three region titles and a 36-10 record in four seasons, said the GHSA penalties weren’t the reason for his decision to step down.

More Sports

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

Atlanta TV sports listings

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

Georgia high school football coaching changes: Brunswick job opens up

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

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: Courtesy of the Irish Exit

A New York-based Irish bar is headed to Atlanta’s Centennial Yards

The hospitality group behind the internationally acclaimed bar the Dead Rabbit is bringing its new concept, the Irish Exit, to downtown Atlanta.

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.

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.

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: Courtesy of Grant Park Candlelight Tour of Homes

Former ice cream shop, squirrel’s abode among stops on Grant Park home tour

Nods to history are present throughout most, if not all, of the 10 houses featured on this year’s self-guided Candlelight Tour of Homes in Grant Park.

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.

Lifestyle

Credit: Courtesy of Joao Geraldini

You don’t always have to kill chinch bugs

Our expert offers eco-friendly gardening tips and advice on chinch bugs in St. Augustine lawns and choosing umbrella-shaped trees for sunny spots.

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.

Entertainment

Credit: Associated P

What’s filming in Georgia in December? Taraji P. Henson’s latest.

"Tyler Perry's Beauty in Black," faith-based Taraji P. Henson movie and Southern Gothic crime series are among the 29 productions filming this month in the state.

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.

Travel

Credit: Joe Kovac Jr.

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

Credit: Natureaddict via Pixabay

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

Credit: Grace Dickinson

Southern Classics — Reimagined

Aging in Atlanta

AJC Pulse Magazine

Photos

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez/AJC

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.