The scoop on Monday, Jan. 4: 5 things to know this morning

Saints tight end Benjamin Watson catches a touchdown pass past Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud to tie the game 7-7 during the first half of their NFL “Thursday Night Football” game on Nov. 21, 2013, in Atlanta. CURTIS COMPTON /staff CCOMPTON@AJC.COM

By Fiza Pirani

Jan 4, 2016

1. Falcons fall to Brees, Watson once more

The Falcons left the field disappointed once again Sunday after falling 20-17 in the Georgia Dome following the team's rematch with Saints' quarterback Drew Brees and tight end Bejamin Watson. Read more.

2. GOP candidates stay quiet on Oregon standoff

After an armed group took over part of a national wildlife refuge in rural Oregon, Republican presidential candidates are staying mum. Issues involved in the standoff include constitutional rights, allegations of federal government overreach and individual liberties, but few candidates seemed willing to speak about these issues Sunday. Read more.

3. Nathan Deal builds second term around an education overhaul

“Education reform is the ultimate criminal justice reform,” Gov. Deal said. “It’s all tied together. They all have a common thread. Because if someone isn’t qualified, they are not going to do well in school, in the jobs market or in life.” Read more.

4. Obama and attorney general to discuss how to curb gun violence

Pres. Barack Obama will meet with Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch on Monday to discuss what he can do about what he calls "our epidemic of gun violence." Read more.

5. Things to do in Atlanta this week | Jan. 4-10

The holiday party invites may have dwindled down, but there's still plenty left to do around town. From Monster Jam to art exhibits and concerts, we've got lots lined up for you this week. Read more.

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