Today
in Decatur
Thursday, January 8th, 2026
Good morning, Decatur. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ A survey found that more than 4,600 people, including about 1,600 children, live in DeKalb hotels due to a lack of affordable housing and poor living conditions such as mold and pests. Officials and community leaders will meet next week to discuss programs to move families into more stable homes. Atlanta News First
- ➤ Church friends continue a search for 79-year-old Ernestine (Erni) Merritt, who went missing at 4:20 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 4, with local authorities assisting. Fox 5 Atlanta
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Decatur leaders approved $113,000 in improvement grants on Jan. 7 to fund 27 projects at 19 local businesses for storefront upgrades + marketing efforts. Atlanta News First
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A new DeKalb County study found that families living in extended-stay hotels spent 77% of their income on rent, often paying over $2,000 a month. Advocates Joy Monroe and Sue Sullivan presented the findings on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at a county board meeting. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A DeKalb teacher (Wayne Lomax) has struggled to receive the $15,000 raise promised in his contract for the 2024-2025 school year; he emailed HR in September and November and hired an attorney in December to demand the funds. WSB-TV
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will hold a community meeting on Thursday, Jan. 22 from 6 to 7 p.m. at DeKalb County Fire Rescue Station 6, 2342 Flat Shoals Road SE, Atlanta to discuss plans for the Longdale Park Master Plan. On Common Ground News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ County officials announced on Wednesday, Jan. 7 that an inventory of public water pipes found no known lead, but property owners are asked to check private laterals and report their material via an online survey + this measure aims to protect residents from lead exposure. Fox 5 Atlanta
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Livvy's Love Fun Run/Walk 2026
8-10 a.m. — Stone Mountain Park — Registration required — Participate in a fun-filled run or walk for a great cause supporting youth.
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Dan Bern Live Performance
9-11 PM — Eddie's Attic — Tickets from $26.70 — Experience the captivating live performance of Dan Bern, known for his deeply moving and imaginative songs.
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211 Miles From Nashville
9-11 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $14.46 — Experience an eclectic night of live music with talented artists in an intimate setting.
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Jordan Thorne Live Concert
9-11 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Tickets from $14.46 — Experience Jordan Thorne's powerful vocals and unique blend of classic rock, pop, and country music.
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Maple Street Band & The Haymakers Live Concert
10:15 PM-12:15 AM — Eddie's Attic — From $16.68 — Experience the vibrant sounds of electric rock and southern influences in an all-ages setting.
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Dry January Zero-Proof Cocktail Class
4-6 p.m. — The Iberian Pig — Full zero-proof menu available for purchase — Craft three non-alcoholic cocktails while learning mixology techniques.
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Tinsley Ellis Live
7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — Entry info not provided — Experience the electric blues-rock mastery of one of Atlanta's finest guitarists.
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Adam Ezra Group Live Concert
4-5:30 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $26.70 — Experience an intimate performance by Adam Ezra Group as they connect with fans in a cozy setting.
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Eddie's Attic Songwriters Open Mic Night
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $11.12 — Experience Atlanta’s top songwriters as they showcase their original music at a beloved local venue.
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The Sweet Lillies Live Performance
7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — $26.70 — Experience the heartfelt and collaborative music of The Sweet Lillies alongside special guest Vaylor Trucks.
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