Georgia

Schools in at least three U.S. states—Florida, Georgia, and Colorado—will be equipped with nonlethal drones designed to counter active shooters. The plastic aircraft, made by Austin-based Mithril Defense, are stored in boxes and can be activated by teachers. Once deployed, they can reach a shooter within 15 seconds, using strobe lights, sirens, pepper gel spray, or physical ramming at 60 mph to distract and incapacitate the threat. At least nine schools are participating in the experiment, which aims to provide a rapid response tool for school safety. The article, originally published by the Washington Post and summarized on Marginal Revolution, highlights the growing trend of using drone technology for domestic security in response to local crime concerns.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 30, 08:07 AM UTC

Georgian midfielder Giorgi Kochorashvili is on the verge of returning to Spanish LaLiga, with Getafe negotiating a loan deal with an option to buy from Sporting Portugal. The 27-year-old previously impressed at CD Castellón during the 2022/23 season, playing 40 matches and scoring four goals. After a stint at Levante and a transfer to Sporting for €5.5 million, his playing time in Lisbon was limited due to injuries and competition. Kochorashvili also played a key role for Georgia at Euro 2024. Getafe sees him as an ideal fit for their midfield, valuing his physicality, pressing ability, and LaLiga experience. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming days, and Castellón fans are likely to follow his progress closely.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 04:24 PM UTC

The special election to fill the remainder of the late Rep. David Scott's (D-Ga.) term in the U.S. House of Representatives is heading to a runoff, according to Decision Desk HQ. None of the five candidates competing for the vacant seat secured more than 50 percent of the vote, forcing a runoff between the top two finishers: Scott's daughter, Marcye Scott, and an unnamed Gwinnett candidate. The election was called after Scott's death, and the runoff will determine who serves the remainder of his term in Georgia's congressional district.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 12:55 AM UTC

A coalition of 44 state attorneys general sent a letter to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) arguing that the agency lacks the statutory authority to regulate sports-related event contracts on prediction market platforms. The letter was submitted as the public comment period for the CFTC's first proposed rule on prediction market regulation ended. The states contend that sports-related contracts resemble sports betting, which falls under state jurisdiction, and that the CFTC's proposed rule is an overreach. The CFTC has sued nine states to defend its exclusive regulatory authority over these markets. The CME Group also submitted a letter criticizing the CFTC's definition of 'gaming,' arguing it could preempt state sports regulations. The dispute has intensified as prediction market volumes surged, driven by events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 06:27 PM UTC

A federal judge in Oregon ruled that a lawsuit over social media allegations of hair accessory design theft can proceed. Plaintiff Kursten Owen, owner of Elegance & Geekery, alleges that defendants Breana Askew and Kiandria Demone Boyce engaged in cyberbullying and false accusations after Askew claimed Owen copied her hair clip designs. Boyce, a civil rights activist with a large following, allegedly orchestrated a campaign urging followers to report Owen's business to Shopify and post negative reviews. Boyce's posts included racial elements, accusing Owen of stealing from a Black creator. Owen asserts her designs are independently developed and materially different. The court found the allegations sufficient to support claims of defamation and intentional interference with business relations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 05:45 PM UTC

A federal judge in Oregon ruled that a lawsuit over social media allegations of hair accessory design theft, which includes a racial dimension, can proceed. Plaintiff Kursten Owen, owner of Elegance & Geekery, alleges that defendants Breana Askew and Kiandria Demone Boyce orchestrated a cyberbullying campaign after Askew accused Owen of copying her hair clip designs. Owen claims her designs were independently developed and materially different. Boyce, a civil rights activist with a large following, allegedly posted videos and instructed followers to report Owen's business to Shopify and post negative reviews. The complaint includes profanity-laced threats from Boyce, who stated she orchestrated the 'hate mob' and accused Owen of stealing from a Black creator. The court found the allegations sufficient to proceed on claims of defamation and intentional interference with business relations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 05:45 PM UTC

Portuguese NBA center Neemias Queta expressed optimism about Portugal's chances of qualifying for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup for the first time in history. Speaking at his training camp in Paço de Arcos, the 27-year-old Boston Celtics player emphasized hard work and determination, stating that 'someday it will have to be the first time.' Portugal faces Spain on August 28 and Georgia on August 31 in the second qualifying phase. Currently fourth in Group I with nine points, the top three from each European group advance to the World Cup in Qatar (August 27-September 12, 2027). Queta, who recently signed a $56 million contract extension with the Celtics, is among 16 players called up by coach Mário Gomes. He also highlighted the value of his training camp for young Portuguese players, featuring NBA-experienced coaches.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 01:51 PM UTC

The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) announced a $46.5 million funding opportunity for 14 new Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers. The centers aim to help small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt advanced manufacturing technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence, automation, advanced materials, additive manufacturing, and biotechnology. Funding amounts vary by state and territory, with California receiving the largest share at $15.6 million, followed by Pennsylvania and Ohio at approximately $6.1 million each. Awards will be made annually for up to five years, subject to performance reviews and funding availability. Selected applicants must provide at least 50% in non-federal matching funds. The MEP national network includes about 1,400 advisors, 475 service locations, and over 2,100 partners. The program was created in 1988 under the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 10:11 AM UTC

Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta confirmed on Sunday that he will represent the Portuguese national basketball team in the upcoming FIBA World Cup qualifying games, after missing the previous international window due to contract renegotiation with the NBA team. Queta made the announcement during his appearance at the Estoril Open tennis tournament, where he was invited to toss the coin for the doubles final. He will join the Portuguese team for the start of the second qualifying phase, with games against Spain in Zaragoza on August 28 and against Georgia in Matosinhos three days later. Queta expressed confidence in the team's chances, stating that each game is a fresh opportunity and that Portugal can surprise favored Spain. He emphasized the goal of reaching the World Cup and being competitive.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 03:30 PM UTC

Sailormen Inc., a major Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchisee that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January 2026, has sold its last 23 Orlando-area restaurants to SBH Foods PLK LLC for $2.67 million, after a previous buyer failed to close the deal. The sale completes the divestiture of all 136 locations the company operated at the time of its bankruptcy filing. Earlier, Sailormen sold 97 restaurants in multiple transactions, including 50 units to Pulse Restaurant Group, 16 Miami-area stores to Popeyes corporate, and 3 West Palm Beach locations to 61 Biscuits LLC. The franchisee also closed 39 unprofitable locations it could not sell. Sailormen, founded in 1987 and employing about 2,900 workers before closures, cited a failed sale, credit defaults, and lawsuits as causes of its financial distress. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc., the parent company, was not part of the bankruptcy.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 05:07 PM UTC

Sailormen Inc., a bankrupt Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen franchisee that operated 136 locations in Florida and Georgia, has won court approval to sell its last 23 Orlando-area restaurants to SBH Foods PLK LLC for $2.67 million after a previous buyer failed to close. The sale completes the divestiture of all Sailormen's locations, which included 97 restaurants sold earlier to multiple buyers (including Pulse Restaurant Group, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc., and 61 Biscuits LLC) and 39 locations that were closed. Sailormen filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January 2026 following a failed sale, credit defaults, lawsuits, and store closures. The company closed 17 unprofitable locations to save over $1 million annually. Popeyes parent company was not involved in the bankruptcy. The franchisee, founded in 1987, was one of the largest domestic Popeyes franchisees.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 05:07 PM UTC

The Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia, USA, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, joining a list of new additions to the prestigious international list. The swamp, one of the largest intact freshwater ecosystems in the world, is recognized for its unique biodiversity, including alligators, turtles, and rare bird species. The designation is expected to boost conservation efforts and international recognition for the 438,000-acre wetland, which spans the Georgia-Florida border. The decision was made during the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session, adding the site alongside other natural and cultural landmarks globally. Local officials and environmental groups have praised the move, highlighting its importance for preserving the swamp from threats such as mining and development.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 04:40 PM UTC

Tornike Kvaratskhelia, the 16-year-old younger brother of PSG star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, made his first European start for Dinamo Tbilisi in a UEFA Conference League qualifier against Zalgiris Vilnius, winning 3-0. Playing as a left winger, he impressed with dribbling and speed reminiscent of his brother. Coach Temur Kezbaia praised his performance, noting he is not yet ready for 90 minutes. Tornike, a Georgian U17 international, has attracted interest from Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Napoli, though a move to Bayern is blocked until he turns 18 due to non-EU restrictions.

7 reports · 4 sources · Updated Jul 25, 01:39 PM UTC

During a political rally in Marietta, Georgia, featuring President Donald Trump, Atlanta Braves CEO Mike Plant and former manager Brian Snitker were called on stage. Snitker presented Trump with a commemorative jersey and promised a future World Series championship jersey. Plant then jokingly offered Trump a spot on the Braves' pitching staff after his presidency, saying, 'When you’re done throwing four-seam fastballs for the United States of America, come back and do it for the Atlanta Braves.' Trump responded positively, praising Plant's work with the Braves and suggesting he could help the struggling New York Mets. The exchange highlights the Braves leadership's embrace of the polarizing president, though Plant's role is primarily in business and development, not baseball operations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 11:00 AM UTC

The U.S. Defense Logistics Agency has awarded Rockwell Collins ESA Vision Systems an estimated $333 million contract to supply spare parts and repair services for the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS), a fighter pilot helmet that functions as a targeting computer. The six-year contract, running through July 23, 2032, covers F-15, F-16, and F-18 aircraft for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and 13 allied nations including Greece, Morocco, Singapore, and Australia. The system allows pilots to lock missiles onto targets simply by looking at them, enabling high off-boresight targeting. The contract was awarded as a sole-source acquisition, citing the company's unique position as the sole provider of JHMCS hardware. Work will be performed in Texas, Oregon, and Israel, with funding from fiscal years 2026 through 2032.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 10:57 AM UTC

Colt Gray, the teenager responsible for the 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia that killed four people, has pleaded guilty in court. The plea deal allowed him to avoid a trial in Columbia County. During the hearing, victims and their families delivered emotional statements describing the impact of the tragedy. Gray's guilty plea covers multiple murder charges. The case has drawn significant attention as one of the deadliest school shootings in Georgia history. The court proceedings included live updates from CNN and other major news outlets covering the sentencing phase.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 04:40 PM UTC

Georgian international midfielder Lominadze has left Portuguese club Estoril Praia after one season and signed for Torpedo Kutaisi in his home country. The player expressed gratitude for his time at Estoril, stating he is grateful for everything he learned. The transfer is permanent, marking a return to Georgia for the midfielder. The news was reported by Record Portugal on July 24, 2026.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 01:00 PM UTC

At a Georgia rally, President Trump praised his 'Front Row Joes' supporters, claiming they are 'very rich' and make a lot of money. Former supporter Trisha Hope contradicted this in a detailed X post, stating the group actually incurs significant personal costs—driving all night, paying for flights, sleeping outside venues for days—to attend rallies. Hope, who left the group over Trump's Epstein comments, noted that founder Randall Thom, a Marine veteran, died in a 2020 car crash returning from a Trump rally without receiving recognition or a promised job. The article characterizes Trump's comments as callous and out of touch with the loyalty and sacrifices of his most dedicated fans.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 05:12 PM UTC

At a rally in Georgia, President Trump praised his 'Front Row Joes' supporters, claiming they are 'very rich' and make a lot of money. However, former Front Row Joe Trisha Hope publicly contradicted him, stating the group sacrifices heavily—driving all night, sleeping on cots, and spending their own money—to attend rallies. Hope noted the group's founder, Marine veteran Randall Thom, died in a car crash after a 2020 rally without recognition from Trump's team. She left the group over Trump's comments about Jeffrey Epstein. The article highlights Trump's apparent ignorance of his most loyal supporters' hardships, contrasting his claims with their reality.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 05:12 PM UTC

During a campaign rally in Georgia, former President Donald Trump urged Atlanta Braves fans to continue performing the controversial 'tomahawk chop' gesture at home games, dismissing criticism that the practice is culturally insensitive. Trump also introduced former Braves manager Brian Snitker, who promised the team would win another World Series this year. Trump took jabs at the New York Mets, his hometown team, saying 'they lose all the time,' which was met with approval from the Georgia crowd. The event highlighted Trump's appeal to sports fans and his alignment with local cultural symbols, while the 'chop' remains a subject of debate over its Native American imagery.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 12:20 PM UTC

This article provides a comprehensive overview of DUI law and defense in rural North Georgia, emphasizing the unique social and professional consequences for drivers in small communities like Ellijay and surrounding counties. It details Georgia's DUI statute (O.C.G.A. Section 40-6-391), explaining distinct charge categories: DUI per se (BAC of 0.08 or above), DUI less safe (BAC below 0.08 or no test, but evidence of impairment), and DUI of drugs (including prescribed medications). The article notes that for commercial driver's license (CDL) holders, the BAC threshold is lower at 0.04, with federal implications. It highlights the importance of local legal representation due to the specific dynamics of rural North Georgia courts compared to metro Atlanta.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 03:45 AM UTC

OpenAI unveiled Project Camellia, a $20 billion data center campus in Effingham County, Georgia, near Savannah. The facility, its first self-designed and built data center, will consume 3.2 gigawatts of power from Georgia Power, phased between 2028 and 2032. To preempt local backlash, OpenAI pledged no residential rate hikes, minimal water use, $80 million in community benefits, and $71 million in Codex credits for Georgia students. The project is part of OpenAI’s broader $750 billion infrastructure spending plan through 2030.

6 reports · 3 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:45 PM UTC

President Donald Trump held a rally at Wheeler High School in Marietta, Georgia, on July 22, 2026, ostensibly to discuss the economy but largely deviating into attacks on Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff and his party. Trump labeled Ossoff 'terrible' and accused Democrats of wanting to 'let the Marxists into power,' while promoting Republican challenger Rep. Mike Collins. The event is part of efforts to flip a Senate seat in a key battleground state ahead of the November midterms. Polling shows Ossoff leading Collins 46.7% to 42.9% among likely voters, with the race rated a 'Toss-up' by Inside Elections. Trump also criticized the Biden administration's inflation record and touted his own tax cuts.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:26 PM UTC

The article analyzes the European Union's fragmented approach to developing the Middle Corridor, a trade route bypassing Russia and Iran that runs from Europe across the Black Sea, South Caucasus, and Caspian Sea into Central Asia. Following the Hormuz crisis and energy price surges, Europe urgently seeks alternative supply routes. While the EU has pledged billions in funding through initiatives like Global Gateway and TEN-T, only about a quarter has materialized into projects, and no single entity coordinates efforts. Trade volume grew from 840,000 tons (2021) to 4.5 million tons (2024), with potential to triple by 2030. The article proposes the Three Seas Initiative (3SI) as a partner to coordinate the European end of the corridor, noting its ability to include strategic partners like Turkey, Ukraine, and Moldova that face political barriers in EU frameworks. The 3SI's ranked project pipeline could align with EU funding mechanisms for more effective implementation.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:02 PM UTC

Four Georgia State Patrol troopers were fired after an internal investigation revealed they filed personal injury claims against insurance companies of drivers they had chased, including crashes caused by PIT maneuvers. The troopers sought settlements for stress, anxiety, and soreness without reporting injuries or seeking medical treatment at the time. Some collected tens of thousands of dollars and admitted the claims were a way to supplement their income. A supervisor reported hearing troopers joke about getting a 'check' after pursuits, which triggered the investigation. State Patrol policy prohibits troopers from profiting from on-duty incidents; they must use the workers' compensation system if injured. The dismissals followed the probe.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:00 AM UTC

Four Georgia State Patrol troopers were fired after an internal investigation revealed they filed personal injury claims against the insurance companies of drivers they had chased, seeking settlements for stress, anxiety, and soreness despite not reporting injuries or seeking medical treatment at the time. The troopers used crash reports from pursuits they initiated, including those caused by Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuvers, to collect tens of thousands of dollars. A supervisor reported hearing troopers joke about getting a 'check' after pursuits, prompting the investigation. State Patrol policy prohibits troopers from profiting from on-duty incidents; injured officers must use the state's workers' compensation system instead of filing personal claims against drivers' insurance.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:00 AM UTC

Four Georgia State Patrol troopers were fired after an internal investigation revealed they filed personal injury claims against the insurance companies of drivers they had pursued, including crashes caused by PIT maneuvers. The troopers sought settlements for stress, anxiety, and soreness despite not reporting injuries or seeking medical treatment at the time. Some collected tens of thousands of dollars and admitted the claims were a way to supplement their income. A supervisor reported hearing troopers joke about getting a 'check' after pursuits, which triggered the investigation. State Patrol policy prohibits troopers from profiting from on-duty incidents; injured officers must use the state's workers' compensation system instead of filing personal claims against drivers' insurance.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:00 AM UTC

Matthew Gbomadu, a 21-year-old Nigerian forward, has permanently left Portuguese club Estrela da Amadora to join Dinamo Tbilisi of Georgia. The move was announced by Estrela on their official website. Gbomadu arrived at Estrela in the last winter transfer window from Ararat-Armenia but did not play any official matches for the Portuguese side. He previously scored one goal in 17 games for Ararat-Armenia in the first half of last season, and in the 2024/25 season he recorded six goals in 35 matches overall. He had one year remaining on his contract and is valued at €200,000 by Transfermarkt. Gbomadu also previously played for FC Van in Armenia, where he won a league title and a Super Cup. Estrela thanked the player for his commitment, dedication, and professionalism.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 07:04 PM UTC

The upcoming U.S. midterm elections will feature 26 ballot initiatives on taxation across 13 states, giving voters a direct say in tax policy. While California's proposed 'billionaire tax' (Prop. 40) has drawn the most attention, the majority of measures focus on rolling back property taxes, which affect homeowners' most valuable asset. States including Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wyoming have proposals to curb property tax expenditures through increased exemptions, new senior citizen exemptions, or outright prohibitions on state property taxes. Local officials, such as Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, warn that these cuts could severely reduce municipal budgets, leading to cuts in roads, libraries, parks, and public safety. The article highlights the tension between lowering personal tax burdens and maintaining local government revenue, framing the votes as a test of voter sentiment on government spending.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:15 PM UTC

A decade-long, $10 million conservation effort involving 35 organizations across 16 states has led to a 45% increase in American oystercatcher populations along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The birds, which were largely wiped out in New England by 1900 due to hunting and egg collecting, are now recovering through measures including fencing off nesting sites, trapping predators like skunks and raccoons, and educating beachgoers. Biologists recently banded chicks at Rhode Island's Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge as part of the nationwide restoration. The effort, led by Manomet Conservation Sciences and the American Oystercatcher Working Group, focused on improving chick survival rates. The recovery is notable given that most North American shorebird populations are declining, and demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted conservation before species become endangered.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 12:33 PM UTC