Today
in Decatur
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025
Good morning, Decatur. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 17th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ NBA Hall-of-Famer Shaquille O'Neal delivered toys and essentials to students at Fairview Elementary during his annual Shaq-A-Claus event on Tuesday, Dec. 16. The donation helped brighten students’ holiday celebrations. Fox 5 Atlanta
- ➤ At Legacy Park, Trellis' Gather & Grow class recently held a bug hotel session that helped participants with disabilities reconnect with nature and learn horticultural skills. The program builds community and offers accessible outdoor therapy & learning opportunities. Decaturish
- ➤ A metro couple in Decatur fought a high water bill after an ANF investigation uncovered a billing error caused by an autopay glitch that dropped their credit score, and the utility company corrected the mistake. Atlanta News First
- ➤ A final push for donations is underway as this year’s Toys for Tots drive, which supports children in need, ends this weekend in Decatur. Community members are encouraged to donate before the campaign concludes. Fox 5 Atlanta
- ➤ New Life Church in Decatur received a $500K grant from the Same House organization as part of the Beloved Benefit that raised $8.3M to support housing efforts. Pastor Marlin D. Harris (along with Same House CEO Rodney Bullard) said the funds will help provide homes for local residents. Atlanta News First
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ DeKalb County School District announced that six schools — Cross Keys High, Chapel Hill Elementary, Indian Creek Elementary, Oak View Elementary, Towers High, and Woodridge Elementary — exited the federal CSI and TSI designations. The district credited students, teachers, and support staff for their hard work and pledged to maintain progress. On Common Ground News
- ➤ Orrin (Checkmate) Hudson of the Be Someone mentoring program appeared on ANF Tuesday, Dec. 16 to announce a Chess Leadership Training Workshop and free toy giveaway scheduled for Dec. 20 that will help kids learn chess strategies ahead of the holidays. On Common Ground News
- ➤ On Dec. 7, Diijon DaCosta was named County School Board Member of the Year by the Georgia Association of Black County Officials during its President’s Reception, recognizing his efforts on the DeKalb County School Board which serves Stone Mountain and Stephenson communities. This honor highlights commitment to equity and access. On Common Ground News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ DeKalb District Attorney Sherry Boston announced on Monday, Dec. 15 that 17 young adults graduated from the 2025 STRIDE pretrial diversion program in Decatur. The 12-month program requires counseling, full-time work or school, and community service to help participants avoid future offenses and keep civic opportunities open. On Common Ground News
- ➤ DeKalb County commissioners approved a $45 million plan — adding eight jet hangars at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport on December 16; Sky Harbour said the expansion will reduce noise by cutting flights while neighbors voice concern over pollution. Commissioners may vote on further noise controls early next year. FOX 5 Atlanta
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ Real estate expert John Adams explained that rising costs, student debt, and increased competition have pushed the average age of first-time homebuyers to 40, a change that reflects shifting priorities and affordability challenges in the metro area. Fox 5 Atlanta
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Dyson Daniels scored 27 points and grabbed 10 rebounds as the Hawks edged the 76ers 120-117 on Sunday night, with Onyeka Okongwu adding 20 points and 15 rebounds in a close finish. The Hawks will face Charlotte on Thursday while the 76ers travel to New York on Friday. Atlanta News First
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A Charlie Brown Christmas Concert
7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $28.92 — Celebrate the holidays with timeless music from A Charlie Brown Christmas performed by The Kyle Bryant Trio.
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Candlelight Concert: Neo-Soul Favorites
4:15-5:14 p.m. — The Chapel on Sycamore — Tickets required — Experience the soulful sounds of legends like Prince and Childish Gambino illuminated by candlelight.
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Urban Nutcracker 2025
3-5 p.m. — Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center — Tickets available — Experience a unique urban interpretation of the classic Nutcracker ballet by Ballethnic Dance Company.
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Cece Benz and Stratton James Trio Concert
7-9 p.m. — Eddie's Attic — From $20.03 — Experience an evening of indie pop as Cece Benz shares her heartfelt storytelling and music.
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