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

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From the Olympics to World Cup, here’s how Atlanta changed over 30 years

While the story of the World Cup’s influence has yet to be written, here are some ways in which the Atlanta of today looks different since the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games.

DOJ OKs Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, combining film studios, CNN and CBS

The merger could mark a new chapter for the Atlanta-based Turner networks, which have been passed along in a never-ending carousel of deals.

Atlanta Beltline’s newest trails form ‘The U,’ linking key neighborhoods

Colloquially referred to as “The U,” the opened segments of the Atlanta Beltline trail now stretch for nearly 17 of the main loop's 22 miles.

It’s no Taylor Swift concert: World Cup home rental demand muted, say hosts

“I can name a half a dozen other events that have shown way more demand than the World Cup,” one short-term rental operator said as World Cup demand appears soft so far.

Focus on Fani Willis

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BULLDOGS

Georgia spring game: How to watch, game time, TV channel for 2026 G-Day

A guide to Georgia football's spring game, including how to watch, the game time and TV information for 2026 G-Day. It's the final practice of the spring for the Bulldogs.

BULLDOGS

New names to know for Georgia football ahead of G-Day

For nearly 40 members of the Georgia team, Saturday will be their first experience inside Sanford Stadium with fans.

KEN SUGIURA

Alberto Mendoza has quickly made quite an impression at Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech quarterback Alberto Mendoza, the brother of Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, has made a strong first impression at the Yellow Jackets' spring practices.

BULLDOGS

Georgia football: The RSVPs from recruits for G-Day have a few surprise names

UGA expects to host its two-highest-rated 2027 commits in town on Saturday for G-Day.

Georgia and Metro News

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UGA boycott of Texas Tech is about fairness, fear and finances

UGA and other colleges worry gambling by student-athletes puts the multibillion-dollar world of college sports at risk.

Meet the Atlanta man who is beating gas prices — Barbie style

Mali "Sota" Hightower drives a Barbie camper car around Atlanta to beat high gas prices. He has been featured on the national news and in music videos.

2 face federal charges in attack on Atlanta police training center contractor

Two people face federal charges for their alleged involvement in the attack on Brasfield & Gorrie construction company, which officials say damaged the firm's property.

MARTA is ‘a safe system,’ board chairperson says

Atlanta MARTA leaders say the system is safe despite violent incidents and a federal investigation as the city prepares for World Cup visitors.

AJC Sports

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BULLDOGS

Andrew Smart, son of Kirby, gets first scholarship offer from a Georgia rival

Kirby Smart's son Andrew received his first scholarship offer on Thursday from an unlikely source.

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BULLDOGS

It is getting harder and harder for Georgia football to recruit elite talent

Sentell’s Intel: The 411 on the 12 Georgia football weekend official visitors

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KEN SUGIURA

Questions, answers about Braves’ baserunning, Austin Riley, Grant Holmes

Why do the Braves keep getting picked off, why isn’t Austin Riley getting benched and why start Grant Holmes over JR Ritchie?

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BULLDOGS

How has the highest-seeded team in Omaha fared historically?

At No. 3, UGA is the highest-seeded team at the College World Series. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, only four of the highest-seeded teams have won the CWS since 1999.

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BULLDOGS

Georgia’s Daniel Jackson wins top college baseball player award

Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson was named the Dick Howser Trophy winner. Heading into the College World Series, the Bulldogs star is batting .396 with 31 home runs and 86 RBIs.

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MLB

Bad weather causes late travel for Braves, shift in pitching rotation

After losing the first two games of a series against the White Sox and seeing the third canceled due to weather, travel delays have changed the Braves' pitching rotation.

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

BULLDOGS

Will UGA continue its HR smashing in Omaha? Field size isn’t the only factor.

Georgia baseball leads the nation in home runs. Can UGA’s power translate to Omaha’s larger, wind-affected Charles Schwab Field in the CWS opener vs Texas?

Today's Videos

Now Playing

This Atlanta man turned a Barbie van into a gas-powered ride

MARTA police chief defends safety record while acknowledging riders' fears

Why the South can’t agree on its own history

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What would you do if you recognized opportunities in your nursing unit?

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Northside Hospital and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution know how much nurses need some relaxation. To help, we’re...

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More than two decades into her career at Wellstar Health System, Deidre Jenkins wasn’t ready to retire — she was ready...

Get to know 3 emerging artists on Whiskey Jam stage at Braves Country Fest

Zach John King, Scoot Teasley and Colton Bowlin will perform on the Whiskey Jam stage ahead of the Braves Country Fest at The Battery near Truist Park in Atlanta.

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Hit soap ‘Beyond the Gates’ gets crossover love, two more guaranteed years

Shot at Assembly Studios, the first new soap in a quarter century provides steady work for 200-plus metro Atlantans.

Credit: Photo courtesy of Cody Johnson

15 family-friendly events in Atlanta this weekend

The fun includes FIFA Fan Festival in Centennial Olympic Park and Braves Country Fest.

UATL

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Atlanta’s famed nightlife scene gets ready to entertain World Cup revelers

Atlanta’s nightlife reputation is renowned. The World Cup is its next stage.

FROM UATL

Play4Peace ATL aims to curb teen violence through peace walk, leadership program

Organizers expect nearly 1,000 people to join the youth-led Play4Peace ATL march Saturday to promote nonviolence, civic engagement and leadership.

FROM UATL

How Atlanta singer Jade Novah became an entertainer on her terms

Singer, songwriter and actress Jade Novah blazes her own trail, from Rihanna covers on YouTube to being an independent artist praised by Stevie Wonder and Beyoncé.

FROM UATL

Soccer, ATL style: 7 homegrown pieces to get you World Cup ready

Ready for FIFA 2026 World Cup in Atlanta? From T.I. to Outkast to MARTA, we have a list of homegrown soccer fashion favorites.

Your Wellness

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Rising healthcare costs don’t have to derail your budget after 50

Here are five ways to navigate growing healthcare expenses without sacrificing care.

Georgia hospitals test ‘game-changer’ pancreatic cancer drugs

Clinical trials at Emory and Piedmont are signaling a potential breakthrough in treating pancreatic cancer, one of the nation’s deadliest diseases.

Equinox luxury fitness center picks Buckhead for first Georgia location

Equinox, the fitness concept popular with celebrities, has selected a location in Buckhead with an expected opening in 2027.

HEALTHY TRAVEL

Coastal retreats for rest, reflection and renewal

For travelers seeking a slower pace, these coastal destinations prioritize comfort, wellness and meaningful experiences.

Latest Headlines

BULLDOGS

Food and Dining

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Miami-based Ghee Indian Kitchen finds warm welcome in Atlanta

The restaurant is attractive and warm with a buzzing atmosphere and irresistible aromas.

RECIPE

Roast salmon stars in quick, elevated twist on trout almondine

This delicate French dish is adapted to modern family life by swapping in hearty, nutritious salmon.

RECIPE

C. Ellet’s Steakhouse Riverboat Flip brings classic style to the present

This old-school cocktail features a whole egg in the classic style of a flip, but the recipe makes a delicious beverage even without the egg.

These are the metro Atlanta restaurants we’re excited to see open in 2026

Nearly 20 new restaurants, from food hall stalls to ambitious tasting menu concepts, to put on your list to visit in 2026.

Opinion and Voices

OPINION

Where’s the diversity in Ga.’s transit authority? A seat at the table matters.

Gov. Brian Kemp appointed members to the new Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority who do not reflect the diversity of places where transit ridership is highest.

OPINION

AI chatbots are not your lawyer. Protect attorney‑client confidentiality.

Legal clients who expect privacy when they talk about their cases on artificial intelligence chatboxes should know that courts don't consider their communications protected.

AJC CONTRIBUTOR

Brian Kemp voters, not MAGA faithful, will sway GOP gubernatorial runoff

The pattern in Georgia politics shows that Gov. Brian Kemp not President Donald Trump will be the kingmaker in the Republican gubernatorial runoff.

THE STEERING COLUMN

Car shopping? There are more choices than ever

Even if you’re a car buyer with highly niche needs, there’s almost certainly a vehicle, be it new or used, to meet your demands.

AJC CONTRIBUTOR

Why the crisis of ethical leadership cannot be ignored at the ballot box

I fear that voters are focusing exclusively on party affiliation and ideology while overlooking questions of character and integrity.

Mike Luckovich

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OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Ugly situation

AJC cartoonist Mike Luckovich on President Donald Trump's name appearing in the Epstein files.

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OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Inflation expert

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OPINION

Mike Luckovich: May not survive

Latest news

Politics

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Federal court rules a fundraising advantage for Burt Jones is likely illegal

The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld an earlier ruling that prohibits Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ leadership committee from supporting his campaign for governor.

PATRICIA MURPHY

Georgia lawmakers can erase Black districts. That doesn’t mean they should.

Black and minority voices matter in the U.S. House and Georgia General Assembly.

POLITICALLY GEORGIA

Candidates jockey for Trump’s blessing in GOP governor’s race

President Donald Trump hosted a tele-rally for Lt. Gov. Burt Jones as Rick Jackson promised he'll be Trump's "favorite governor" at a campaign stop.

Metro Atlanta

Credit: TNS

DOJ OKs Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, combining film studios, CNN and CBS

The merger could mark a new chapter for the Atlanta-based Turner networks, which have been passed along in a never-ending carousel of deals.

Atlanta Beltline’s newest trails form ‘The U,’ linking key neighborhoods

Colloquially referred to as “The U,” the opened segments of the Atlanta Beltline trail now stretch for nearly 17 of the main loop's 22 miles.

Peachtree Road Race updates: World-class inspiration

In this week's Peachtree newsletter: prerace expo details, World Cup-level training tips, a Peachtree playlist update and more.

Georgia

Credit: Hyosub Shin/AJC

Neighbors say petting zoo animals terrorized them. Would a judge listen?

A family took their complaint to a magistrate court after run-ins with animals, including an alleged bull, that got loose from a petting farm in North Georgia’s Fannin County.

First Liberty founder’s wife seeks to keep her company out of receivership

An attorney for Krista Frost and her company submitted a filing to the court challenging a move to add them to the receivership.

Sheriff’s deputy settles landmark transgender rights case against Georgia county

A transgender sheriff's deputy in central Georgia has settled her landmark health insurance case against Houston County and its sheriff after almost seven years in court.

Opinion

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Readers write

AJC readers write about the quality of candidates and a ‘colorblind’ Supreme Court.

OPINION

Where’s the diversity in Ga.’s transit authority? A seat at the table matters.

Gov. Brian Kemp appointed members to the new Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority who do not reflect the diversity of places where transit ridership is highest.

OPINION

AI chatbots are not your lawyer. Protect attorney‑client confidentiality.

Legal clients who expect privacy when they talk about their cases on artificial intelligence chatboxes should know that courts don't consider their communications protected.

Falcons

Credit: AP

NFL

Falcons OT Storm Norton out for season

Falcons offensive tackle Storm Norton will miss the season, the team announced Thursday. Norton also missed last season after an ankle injury.

NFL

Falcons trade for former Grayson 5-star tackle to bolster offensive line

The Falcons traded with the Chiefs for offensive tackle Wanya Morris, a former Grayson High standout who started 16 games in three years in Kansas City.

The new 28-3? Social media compares Spurs’ 29-point blown lead to Falcons’.

Social media is comparing the Knicks' NBA Finals rally from 29 points down to the Patriots' 25-point Super Bowl comeback against the Falcons.

Bulldogs

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

BULLDOGS

How has the highest-seeded team in Omaha fared historically?

At No. 3, UGA is the highest-seeded team at the College World Series. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, only four of the highest-seeded teams have won the CWS since 1999.

BULLDOGS

It is getting harder and harder for Georgia football to recruit elite talent

Sentell’s Intel: The 411 on the 12 Georgia football weekend official visitors

BULLDOGS

Georgia’s Daniel Jackson wins top college baseball player award

Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson was named the Dick Howser Trophy winner. Heading into the College World Series, the Bulldogs star is batting .396 with 31 home runs and 86 RBIs.

Georgia Tech

Credit: Colin Hubbard

AJC VARSITY

Former Super 11 pick Justice Haynes on why he decided to ‘come back home’

Justice Haynes dominated Friday nights in Georgia at Buford and Blessed Trinity. The transfer to Georgia Tech aims to do the same on Saturdays this fseason.

Vahn Lackey wins Johnny Bench Award as nation’s best catcher

It’s the latest honor for Lackey, who was among the best overall players this season and is expected to be among the first few selections in next month’s MLB draft.

Hawks

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OPINION

Knicks’ historic run changes nothing about how the Hawks lost to them

Losing the final 3 games of their first-round series against the Knicks by a combined 96 points drove home that Hawks need to get deeper, bigger, stronger and more physical.

KEN SUGIURA

Hawks’ extension of Quin Snyder keeps the team on an upward trajectory

The Hawks and coach Quin Snyder agreed to a multiyear contract extension after he guided the team to a 46-36 record and a No. 6 seed in the NBA playoffs.

NBA

Hawks give GM Onsi Saleh a promotion and a contract extension

Hawks GM Onsi Saleh, who was promoted to president of basketball operations, made moves that helped the team bypass the play-in tournament for the first time since 2020-21.

Braves

Credit: AP Photo/Lynne Sladky

Spencer Strider removed from Friday’s start after 68 pitches, decrease in velocity

1h ago

MLB

Bad weather causes late travel for Braves, shift in pitching rotation

After losing the first two games of a series against the White Sox and seeing the third canceled due to weather, travel delays have changed the Braves' pitching rotation.

KEN SUGIURA

Questions, answers about Braves’ baserunning, Austin Riley, Grant Holmes

Why do the Braves keep getting picked off, why isn’t Austin Riley getting benched and why start Grant Holmes over JR Ritchie?

United

Credit: Ben Hendren

With ICE presence, some Atlanta-area communities won’t engage in World Cup

Immigrant communities balance the risk of potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids with opportunities to celebrate soccer at the highest level during the World Cup.

Morocco loses star winger Ezzalzouli and Aguerd to injuries for World Cup

KEN SUGIURA

A column turns into a plan to make children’s World Cup dreams come true

Sports marketing executive Vince Thompson was moved to buy World Cup tickets for some fans who have been priced out of the event.

High Schools

Credit: Colin Hubbard

AJC VARSITY

Former Super 11 pick Justice Haynes on why he decided to ‘come back home’

Justice Haynes dominated Friday nights in Georgia at Buford and Blessed Trinity. The transfer to Georgia Tech aims to do the same on Saturdays this fseason.

AJC VARSITY

Fast-rising Atlanta DB Seth Williams says he’s down to Clemson and Georgia

Seth Williams, a 4-star safety at Lakeside High School, says he has narrowed his college choice to Clemson and Georgia, but other schools continue to pursue him.

State champion TCC teammates remember ‘Big Coop,’ who died hours after graduating

'Big Coop — Deontavis Cooper — is remembered by his Thomas County Central football teammates, coach for his strength and his character. Cooper died hours after graduation.

More Sports

Credit: AP Photo/Mike Stewart

Why Spain’s World Cup chances may rest on the shoulders of an 18-year-old star

Lamine Yamal, Spain's best player, had been limited by a hamstring injury and returned to practice on Thursday. His status for Spain's World Cup opener has not been announced.

Peachtree Road Race updates: World-class inspiration

In this week's Peachtree newsletter: prerace expo details, World Cup-level training tips, a Peachtree playlist update and more.

MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM

Cape Verde ‘Blue Sharks’ come to Atlanta as ultimate World Cup underdogs

Small western Africa nation will face Spain in its first tournament appearance.

Food & Dining

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

Cool off with frozen treats at these Atlanta dessert shops and restaurants

Metro Atlanta has more than enough frosty sweet treats to offer this summer, from towering sundaes and bingsu, to swirls of soft serve and vegan ice cream.

Where to eat in Atlanta: The Ultimate Food Guide

Where to eat in metro Atlanta, from the city's best restaurants to a comprehensive list of farmers markets, with guides for the Beltline, downtown, the airport and more.

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Buckhead’s Koshu Club serves pure luxury, no matter how you define it

The Koshu Club, inspired by Japanese cuisine, is the latest venture from the Castellucci Hospitality Group and features high-end steak options.

UATL

Credit: Arvin Temkar/AJC

FROM UATL

How Atlanta singer Jade Novah became an entertainer on her terms

Singer, songwriter and actress Jade Novah blazes her own trail, from Rihanna covers on YouTube to being an independent artist praised by Stevie Wonder and Beyoncé.

FROM UATL

Play4Peace ATL aims to curb teen violence through peace walk, leadership program

Organizers expect nearly 1,000 people to join the youth-led Play4Peace ATL march Saturday to promote nonviolence, civic engagement and leadership.

FROM UATL

Soccer, ATL style: 7 homegrown pieces to get you World Cup ready

Ready for FIFA 2026 World Cup in Atlanta? From T.I. to Outkast to MARTA, we have a list of homegrown soccer fashion favorites.

Things to Do

Credit: TNS

DOJ OKs Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, combining film studios, CNN and CBS

The merger could mark a new chapter for the Atlanta-based Turner networks, which have been passed along in a never-ending carousel of deals.

Peachtree Road Race updates: World-class inspiration

In this week's Peachtree newsletter: prerace expo details, World Cup-level training tips, a Peachtree playlist update and more.

Mackenzie Carpenter takes rising stardom home for Braves Country Fest

Country singer and Georgia native Mackenzie Carpenter will headline Braves Country Fest at Truist Park in Atlanta after a big year, including working on Megan Moroney's album.

Lifestyle

Credit: Ronald R. Williams III

V-103’s Big Tigger denies what he calls ‘allegations and accusations’

“I want to say categorically that these allegations and accusations that have been circulating are false,” V-103 host Big Tigger said on air Friday.

7 healthy habits for a stronger, leaner summer body

Try these expert-backed tips to help you tone up, build strength and feel more confident this summer, plus advice on when a planned cheat meal can fit in.

Smart summer gardening tips to get through Georgia’s heat

From watering and pruning to heat-friendly options, these expert gardening tips will help your plants thrive through Georgia's summer heat.

Entertainment

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FIFA Fan Fest kicks off today at Centennial Park, runs through July 15

Atlanta’s FIFA Fan Fest will include many acts with Atlanta ties such as Davido, CeeLo Green, Ludacris, Killer Mike, Nappy Roots and Hero the Band.

‘Scooby-Doo: Origins’ series shooting in metro Atlanta, adds cast members

Netflix is shooting a live-action “Scooby-Doo” TV series in Atlanta. New cast members have been added to the production, which began in April and runs through September.

Natalie McCann leaves Fox 5, Ryan Maddox out and more Atlanta media briefs

The latest Atlanta TV and radio news, including Natalie McCann's departure from Fox 5 and Mitch Evans' return to 92.9/The Game.

Travel

3 beautiful places in Georgia you might not know about

These three locales are close enough to Atlanta that you can visit during a weekend getaway.

5 romantic overnight getaways near Atlanta

Relax at the spa, inhale fresh air from the outdoors or spend time in front of the fire with a glass of champagne.

5 must-hike mountain trails in Georgia

Among the mountains of North Georgia, you'll find five exciting, invigorating and unforgettable hikes

Wellness

Credit: USC via NIH via AP

Georgia hospitals test ‘game-changer’ pancreatic cancer drugs

Clinical trials at Emory and Piedmont are signaling a potential breakthrough in treating pancreatic cancer, one of the nation’s deadliest diseases.

Can facial massage sculpt your face? There’s a catch

This trendy treatment helps to contour and define facial features. An Atlanta-based expert explains how it works, what happens during a session and what results to expect.

What can everyday athletes learn from World Cup nutrition?

Dan Benardot, registered dietitian and nutritionist, has advised elite athletes from Olympic teams to the Atlanta Falcons. He shares what fuels World Cup performances.

Special Features

Credit: Grace Dickinson

Southern Classics — Reimagined

Aging in Atlanta

AJC Pulse Magazine

Photos

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

PHOTOS: Big Boi performs at Decatur WatchFest '26

Big Boi and Sleepy Brown perform at Decatur Watchfest '26 at Decatur Square on Thursday, June 11, 2026. The monthlong festival coincides with the FIFA World Cup in Atlanta.

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

PHOTOS: FIFA Fan Fest starts in downtown Atlanta

Soccer fans turn out for World Cup festivities at Centennial Olympic Park. Mexico faced South Afrida Thursday on the first day of FIFA World Cup action.

Credit: Jason Getz/AJC

PHOTOS: Atlanta gets ready for its World Cup close-up

Atlanta is putting its best foot forward for the world and the World Cup.