5 things to know today: Obama declares state of emergency in Georgia

1. President declares state of emergency in Georgia. As Hurricane Matthew edged closer to the Florida coast early Friday, President Obama declared a state of emergency in Georgia. [But when will it hit Georgia?]

2. FEMA unofficially uses 'Waffle House Index' to gauge disasters. One lesser-known indicator emergency management officials use is whether or not Waffle Houses are open. [What are the three stages of Waffle House Index.]

3. Hawks open preseason with win behind Tavares' double-double. The Hawks won their exhibition opener with a 104-83 victory at the Grizzlies Thursday night. [Read more.]

4. Cobb County Schools Superintendent: Kneeling athletes would be benched. If student athletes took a knee during the national anthem, Cobb County Schools Superintendent Chris Ragsdale said "their asses would be benched." [Read more.]

5. Exclusive: Tex McIver says he shot wife by accident. Atlanta attorney Claud "Tex" McIver told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution today that he accidentally shot and killed his wife as they rode in their SUV near Piedmont Park last week. ["There's nothing I want to do but join her," he said.]

ExploreICYMI: ‘Netherworld’: reporter braves haunted house…sort of

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Erica Hernandez

‘It’s UATL’: Fire and Ice: The Joy Goddess of Harlem

Listen and subscribe to our podcast for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also tell your smart speaker to “play ‘It’s UATL’” podcast.

Illustration for AJC honors Hank Aaron back in the glittering lights

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Lt. Gov. Burt Jones scores another victory over use of campaign cash

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones appears to have scored another victory over Attorney General Chris Carr as the Republican gubernatorial candidates battle over campaign finance issues.

Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr.’s season is over; needs surgery to repair ACL

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Typewriter Tom fuels a growing interest in analog writing devices

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