The scoop on Wednesday, Sept. 30: 5 things to know this morning
1. Gissendaner executed early Wednesday morning
The only woman on Georgia's death row was executed at 12:21 a.m. Wednesday morning. Kelly Gissendaner was convicted of murder nearly two decades ago. Gissendaner sang "Amazing Grace" in her final moments. Read more.
2. Guards were willing to testify for clemency for Gissendaner
A Fulton County judge denied a motion less than an hour before the scheduled execution to halt it because prison guards and administrators were not allowed to testify for clemency on Gissendaner's behalf. Superior Court Judge Constance Russell said, "Under Georgia law, I don't believe I have the ability to do that." Read more.
3. Freeman (wrist) back in Braves lineup, cleared to keep playing
During Tuesday night's series opener against the Washington nationals, first baseman Freddie Freeman was back in the lineup. Just one day earlier, Freeman had his wrist examined by the team's hand specialist. Manager Fredi Gonzalez said it will be treated as day-to-day. Read more.
4. Feds outline concerns over Atlanta Streetcar in stern letter
In a letter warning Mayor Kasim Reed and MARTA Chief Keith Parker, the Federal Transit Administration raised concerns about the safety and operation of the Streetcar. Some "critical issues" included in the letter: failure to maintain contracts with vendors for maintenance, significant leadership and staffing vacancies and more. Read more.
5. Georgia families want medical marijuana grown here
For the first time this year, the state approved a limited marijuana law for some of the state's most dire patients. However, the law only allows families to have cannabis oil and does not address how to buy or obtain it. Advocates and families now want lawmakers to allow marijuana to be grown here to harvest and distribute cannabis oil in the state. Read more.
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