AGP Executive Report

DeKalb County Schools: The board named interim superintendent Dr. Norman C. Sauce III as the sole finalist for the permanent role, with a final vote expected Oct. 5. Public Safety: A body was found on the roof of Walter’s Soul Food Cafe on Cleveland Avenue; investigators have not released the person’s identity or cause of death. Local Accountability: Jonesboro Mayor Donya Sartor was censured by the city council over questions tied to Juneteenth and Fourth of July spending and an employee grievance. Education Leadership: Stockbridge’s ousted mayor Jayden Williams faced intense scrutiny after allegations involving misuse of funds and communications with a high school student. Health & Community: A Coweta toddler with returned cancer is preparing for high-risk surgery in New York; his mother quit her 911 job to care for him. Sports (Atlanta): The Braves fell 7-3 to the Cubs as Pete Crow-Armstrong hit his 42nd homer; Atlanta also dealt with Reynaldo López’s shoulder pain after a rough start. Tech & Business: GSX 2026 opened in Atlanta with security and AI-focused announcements, including new integrations aimed at faster monitoring and response.

Public Safety: Atlanta police are investigating after a person was found dead on the roof of Walter’s Soul Food Cafe on Cleveland Avenue, with witnesses saying the man’s legs were visible through HVAC on Monday morning. Law Enforcement Tech: The GBI arrested former Emerson police officer Anthony Trapani, alleging he misused Flock Safety license plate reader systems for non-law-enforcement purposes while with Acworth and after transferring to Emerson. Corrections Accountability: The family of Scott Worthy, who died in Clayton County Jail and was ruled a homicide by neglect, is demanding answers after an autopsy cited severe infection tied to alleged medical neglect and “uninhabitable” conditions. Politics: Gov. Brian Kemp endorsed Rep. Mike Collins in Georgia’s U.S. Senate race, setting up a sharper late campaign against incumbent Jon Ossoff. Transit & Cost of Living: MARTA raised long-term parking rates by $2 per day, with some stations up to $10, and cut free gated-lot parking from 24 hours to 14. Business & Community: Thousands of security professionals from nearly 100 countries are in downtown Atlanta for the Global Security Exchange, highlighting school safety and AI-enabled threat response. Sports & Culture: Braves third baseman Austin Riley was named the team’s 2026 Roberto Clemente Award nominee.

NFL—Steelers vs. Falcons: Mike McCarthy’s first game as Steelers coach ended with a 20-13 win over Atlanta at Acrisure Stadium, with T.J. Watt’s late pick-six swinging momentum after a sloppy, penalty-heavy Falcons effort. Sports—Braves on deck: Atlanta opens a three-game set at Wrigley Field against the Cubs on Sept. 14, with first pitch set for 7:40 p.m. ET. Local Politics—Senate race heats up: U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff and Rep. Mike Collins made separate Athens stops, trading sharp attacks while focusing on health care and the economy. Public Safety—Lilburn shooting: Police say one person is in custody after a Sunday shooting at Magnolia Lakes Apartments in Lilburn. Crime—Coupon scam arrest: Peachtree City police arrested a man accused of exploiting a digital coupon glitch to steal more than $200,000 nationwide, with charges including forgery and computer crimes. City Policy—Tucker pet-sales vote: Tucker City Council will consider a measure to ban pop-up pet sales, with fines up to $500 for repeat violations. Health/Infrastructure—Helene water funding: Georgia will learn in November which water projects get nearly $500M in federal Helene resilience money. Community—dead dogs dumped: Neighbors in Collier Heights say dead dogs have been dumped in their area, and police are investigating.

Falcons–Steelers Week 1: Pittsburgh cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is inactive for the opener at Atlanta after a back injury and a contract standoff, with ESPN reporting a trade still possible as negotiations remain stalled. Falcons QB shake-up: Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. are also listed inactive, leaving Cooper Rush to start despite back spasms; Atlanta’s gameday depth is stretched, with additional inactives including key defensive and offensive players. Local road safety: Atlanta police are investigating a deadly early-morning crash on Winsor St SW and I-20 eastbound that killed a 45-year-old woman; the driver reportedly exited the roadway and landed on a ramp below, with one passenger taken to the hospital. Dunwoody development debate: Dunwoody City Council hearings Monday will cover rezonings and special land use permits, including a proposed 10,500-square-foot indoor pickleball facility and a drive-thru medical office. Metro weather: Sunday stays hot and mostly dry across metro Atlanta, with rain chances returning next weekend. Sports beyond football: Ben Shelton reaches the U.S. Open final and aims to end an American men’s Grand Slam drought against top seed Alexander Zverev.

Falcons QB shakeup: Atlanta will start Cooper Rush vs. the Steelers despite back spasms, after Tua Tagovailoa was ruled out with an oblique issue and Michael Penix Jr. remains inactive recovering from a torn ACL. College football in Atlanta: No. 18 Tennessee beat Georgia Tech 45-24 at Bobby Dodd Stadium as freshman QB Faizon Brandon threw two TDs and DeSean Bishop ran for 147 yards and two scores; the game also featured a scary collision that sent Tech’s Jaylen Mbakwe to Grady Hospital. Braves surge: Ronald Acuña homered and Tyler Mahle delivered another strong start as Atlanta routed the Phillies 12-2, highlighted by an eight-run fourth inning. Metro storms: Heavy rain and severe weather left downed trees, power outages, and flash-flood damage across parts of metro Atlanta. Local governance: Stockbridge City Council voted to remove Mayor Jayden Williams from office after a misconduct hearing, with an appeal possible and a special election expected.

Severe Weather: Flash flood warnings hit metro Atlanta as heavy rain triggers street flooding, with parts of Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas and Fulton under alerts until mid-afternoon and Georgia Power reporting thousands without power. Falcons QB Update: Tua Tagovailoa is ruled out of the Falcons’ Week 1 opener vs. the Steelers with an oblique injury, leaving Cooper Rush to start. NFL Game-Day Info: Fans heading to Acrisure Stadium get a rundown on parking, traffic, mobile ticket rules, and gate times for the Falcons-Steelers matchup. Sports Business/Local Pride: Dave’s Sports Bar and Grill in Atlanta was named Georgia’s top sports bar and ranked No. 1 nationally in a review-based study. Atlanta Braves: The Braves keep rolling in their Phillies series, including a Friday win that set up Saturday’s next matchup. Community & Health: Atlanta Women’s Foundation announced $1.418 million in metro-wide investments, while a Gwinnett County workplace accident left an employee dead. LGBTQ+ Nightlife: A new app, OUT Local, is set to launch in October as a one-stop guide for Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ venues and events. National Crime/Immigration: Federal agents arrested a Bahamian man in Georgia over illegal voting tied to a violent criminal history.

Falcons QB Update: Tua Tagovailoa is ruled out for the season opener vs. the Steelers with an oblique injury, and Cooper Rush takes over as Atlanta’s starter; Michael Penix Jr. is also inactive. Public Safety: Atlanta police are investigating a Sept. 7 robbery on Cooper Street SW where suspects allegedly held a victim at gunpoint, took $40 cash and an iPhone, and fled; tips are being accepted through Crime Stoppers. Health Alert: Georgia DPH confirmed two more measles cases tied to a metro Atlanta daycare outbreak, bringing the total connected cases to 10. Metro Weather: Heavy rain and flash flooding snarled major roads around metro Atlanta and triggered airport departure delays. Sports (Local): The Braves edged the Phillies 6-5 in 11 innings to extend their NL East lead to five games, while Ben Shelton advanced to the U.S. Open final after beating Frances Tiafoe. Community: A vigil was held for an Atlanta police recruit killed in a motorcycle crash on Moreland Avenue.

Public Safety & Courts: A retired judge denied Stockbridge Mayor Jayden Williams’ bid to block sexual-misconduct evidence ahead of a City Council hearing that could remove him from office. Justice System: Clayton County jail death findings say Scott Worthy died from medical neglect and poor conditions, with his family seeking accountability. Local Government: Atlanta broke ground on a new BeltLine Northwest Trail segment (Segment 3B), adding a pedestrian bridge and connections toward Georgia Tech. Business & Health: Response Media launched Re:Health, a healthcare marketing practice using an AI tool aimed at helping patients stay on prescribed medications. Sports (Atlanta): The Braves placed OF Lane Thomas on the 10-day injured list with a strained left intercostal muscle, recalling DaShawn Keirsey Jr. Culture: A by-the-numbers look at Minhwa Spirits’ $18 wagyu smash burger highlights how ingredient and labor costs shape restaurant pricing. Community: Volunteers packed meals in Atlanta to mark 25 years since 9/11, alongside memorial events across metro Atlanta.

Falcons Injury Update: Tua Tagovailoa left Thursday practice with an oblique injury and was limited; backup Cooper Rush took first-team reps and said he’ll be ready if needed as Atlanta opens Sunday vs. the Steelers. Warm Springs Police: Bodycam and released footage detail a prior traffic stop between officer Chris Fisher and suspect Jimmy Steverson, days before Fisher was killed; police say guns, money and two pit bulls were found in the truck. Cobb County Tragedy: A father faces second-degree murder charges after a 2-year-old died following being found unresponsive at a Marietta apartment complex. Death Penalty Appeal: Judge rejected Stacey Humphreys’ bid for a new sentencing trial amid claims of jury misconduct; his execution is set for Sept. 16. Metro Growth: Henry County reported 10.1% population growth from 2020-2025, driven by new developments and rising traffic. Politics & Money: An Emory economist questioned Trump’s promise of $5,000 checks if Republicans win midterms, citing cost and tariff math. Sports: Braves beat the Rays 3-1 to avoid a sweep and keep momentum heading into a key series vs. Philadelphia.

Election Law Fight: Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and county election officials urged the U.S. Supreme Court to block a late federal mail-ballot rule, warning it would force new requirements on local offices in just weeks and risk chaos and voter disenfranchisement. Public Safety Spending: Avondale Estates is weighing nearly $48,000 for active-shooter gear after a July 4 fireworks incident, with police citing gaps in ballistic protection, first-aid supplies, and entry tools. Atlanta Area Crime: Authorities say two people were arrested and a third was sought after gunfire near Piedmont Park, as police continue investigating the incident. Local Economy & Infrastructure: Gov. Kemp announced Georgia received $500 million in water infrastructure grants, while state net tax collections for August rose 3.5% to about $2.50 billion. Sports & Culture: Harry Styles added 2027 tour dates that include two Atlanta shows at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Coco Gauff advanced to the U.S. Open semifinals.

Public Safety: Avondale Estates commissioners are set to vote on spending about $47,773 for 16 active-shooter kits for its police department, after shots were fired near the city’s July Fourth fireworks. Courts & Justice: Georgia inmate Stacey Humphreys, convicted in a 2003 double murder, is scheduled for execution Sept. 16; his attorney is seeking a new sentencing trial over claims of juror misconduct. Health Watch: A mosquito trap in Atlanta’s Chastain Park tested positive for West Nile virus, prompting treatment within a quarter-mile radius and renewed safety tips for residents. Sports—Local MLS: Orlando City’s Antoine Griezmann scored twice as the Lions beat Atlanta United 3-2, with Atlanta’s goals coming via two own goals. Sports—MLB: The Tampa Bay Rays clinched a series win over the Braves, winning 7-2 behind Griffin Jax’s strong start and four homers across the first two games. Commemoration: Kroger’s Atlanta division is holding “Stock the Station” Sept. 10 to collect supplies for first responders ahead of the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance.

Public Safety: A suspect in the July I-285 road rage shooting death of 26-year-old Tyler Sieber has been arrested, with DeKalb County police saying 45-year-old Raul Antonio Escobar Paz was taken into custody by the sheriff’s office and U.S. Marshals. City Government: Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens announced a $68 million deal to sell the Atlanta City Detention Center to Fulton County, tied to negotiations over tax allocation districts and a dropped hospital contribution. Federal Funding: FEMA announced an additional $5 million for Georgia recovery and mitigation projects, including money for Hurricane Helene protective measures, COVID-19 disaster management, and Savannah stormwater planning. Crime & Courts: A Gwinnett judge granted bond to Deja Coleman, accused after her 1-year-old died in a hot car, setting conditions including house arrest and an ankle monitor. Sports & Local Culture: The Atlanta Falcons’ Week 1 opener is set for Sunday at Pittsburgh, while a local food guide highlights six Atlanta pop-ups this week, including a barbecue-focused pivot. Community Tech/Privacy: Metro Atlanta residents are being warned about Flock camera tracking and how to check whether they’ve been searched.

Atlanta Sports: The Braves’ series opener vs. the Rays went sideways as Tampa Bay won 7-1 behind four homers, including Junior Caminero’s 455-foot shot; Atlanta’s AJ Smith-Shawver struggled early and was pulled after 3 1/3 innings. Local Education: Decatur City Schools scrapped a permit-approved early childhood learning center at West Trinity Project, with board members citing community concerns and plans to expand early learning at existing schools instead. Public Safety: Fulton County police say officers rescued an 8-week-old baby after a domestic incident at the elections hub; charges against the father are pending. Community & Culture: The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s free “City in the Forest” concert returns to Piedmont Park on Wednesday night. Crime & Courts: A Dawson County Junior High student was detained after bringing a knife to school, according to the sheriff’s office. Transit/Travel: GDOT shut down an I-85 ramp onto I-285 near Hartsfield-Jackson after an overturned tractor-trailer. Sports Business/Tech: Atlanta’s Parking Bill of Rights heads toward City Council action, while the city’s e-bike rebate program is launching a second round with new funding.

Local Law Enforcement & Privacy: A worker called 911 after an InvestigateTV reporter tried to film a Flock Safety public camera installation near Atlanta, as the company faces renewed scrutiny over alleged misuse of license plate readers and AI. Public Health: Georgia health officials confirmed the metro Atlanta daycare measles outbreak has grown to at least eight cases, with more reported as unvaccinated children remain most affected. Courts & Justice: Gov. Kemp announced judicial and prosecutorial appointments, while a federal appeals court upheld a $250,000 retaliation verdict for a former Hillsborough County detention deputy. Crime: Two people were killed and a juvenile was wounded in a LaGrange apartment shooting; police say the suspect is in custody. Transportation & Infrastructure: Drivers should plan for another full I-285 closure this weekend as GDOT continues the Westside Perimeter rebuild. Business & Community: OneTrust named Stephanie Glenn Chief Revenue Officer; and Papa Johns became Official Pizza Partner of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. Weather: Labor Day travel is easing at Hartsfield-Jackson, with TSA waits reported under 23 minutes and sunshine returning with gusty winds.

Falcons QB Decision: The Atlanta Falcons have named Tua Tagovailoa their Week 1 starter, with Michael Penix Jr. inactive as he recovers from a knee injury; coach Kevin Stefanski said he’s focused only on the Steelers opener. Braves vs. Phillies: Jesus Luzardo struck out 12 and threw a two-hit shutout as the Phillies beat the Braves 1-0, cutting Atlanta’s NL East lead to four games with 18 left; Kyle Schwarber hit the game’s only run. Braves Rotation Move: Reynaldo Lopez is set to return from the 15-day injured list on Wednesday to start against the Rays, with Atlanta adjusting its rotation during a busy stretch. Road Safety Grant: Clayton County secured a $5.4 million federal grant to improve pedestrian safety along Tara Blvd, aiming to reduce serious crashes with sidewalks and lighting. Labor Day Enforcement: Georgia State Patrol reported five crash deaths statewide over Labor Day weekend and made 299 DUI arrests, along with hundreds of distracted-driving and seatbelt citations. Local Business: Midtown seafood spot Bon Ton, known for Cajun-Vietnamese seafood, announced it will close Sept. 30. Transit Disruptions: Some metro Atlanta riders faced Labor Day service changes, with Gwinnett and CobbLinc shut down while MARTA ran reduced schedules.

Falcons QB shakeup: Atlanta has named Tua Tagovailoa its Week 1 starter vs. the Steelers, with Michael Penix Jr. inactive as he continues recovering from a torn ACL; Cooper Rush is set as the backup. Housing affordability: The Atlanta Regional Commission is rolling out Housing Forward 2035, aiming to boost low-income housing, tackle vacant/underused properties, and better align homes with job growth across the 11-county region. Transit & infrastructure: The Atlanta Beltline will break ground Sept. 10 on the Northwest Trail Segment 3B, including a new pedestrian bridge over Northside Drive. Public safety: A MARTA bus crash in metro Atlanta left three people injured; separately, Gwinnett police report one dead and two injured in a shooting tied to an armed robbery, and Atlanta police are searching for a suspect in a rideshare driver shooting. Local life: Labor Day’s Big Peach Sizzler drew about 2,000 runners and raised support for the cystic fibrosis community.