A.M. ATL: Industry-Changing Loss in Atlanta

Hey there, folks! I am super excited to let you know that I’ll be heading to the Atlanta United game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sept. 20, and I would love for you to join me. Keep reading to find out how you can enter to win a chance to hang out with me and cheer on our team together. The seats are going to be awesome, and we can even chat about water infrastructure. Sounds like a blast, right? Let’s dive in!

Things are changing in southeast Georgia as four paper mills owned by International Paper are shutting down. This includes a 90-year-old mill in Savannah, a real icon in the community. The impact of these closures is massive. Entire towns rely on these mills, so when they close, it affects everything from jobs to local culture. The closures will be completed by Sept. 30, affecting over 1,100 workers in Savannah, Port Wentworth, and Riceboro, not to mention the timber farmers and loggers who supply the mills with pine. It’s a tough situation, especially for those who have worked at the mills for generations. The loss of these mills will have a huge ripple effect in the region.

Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns, a fifth-generation tree farmer, said the closures will be a big blow to both the timber industry and the economy in southeast Georgia. But there’s hope for revitalization. Local leaders, like veteran journalist Mac Gordon, believe that small towns can bounce back by focusing on other parts of their culture, like the arts. This could lead to a new chapter for these communities. Plus, the new Hyundai Motors electric vehicle plant nearby could provide some much-needed job opportunities for those affected by the mill closures.

In the world of politics, things are heating up in the 2026 Georgia governor’s race. Attorney General Chris Carr and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones are already sparring in court over fundraising. Jones has the advantage of being able to raise unlimited funds through a political leadership committee, which Carr calls unfair. It’s definitely a contentious situation, but both candidates are standing their ground.

On the political and business front, Senator Jon Ossoff has proposed a bill to boost educational and technical training programs in Georgia. The Southside trail project is facing funding challenges, but leaders are determined to see it through. Unfortunately, about 600 CDC employees received termination notices, including staff working on violence prevention programs. The cuts are causing concern about the impact on important public health initiatives.

Looking ahead to the weekend, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into football, Legos, or exploring museums. Check out the College Football Hall of Fame for free admission and special events, or head to the Lego Brick Fan Event for some creative fun. Whatever you choose, have a fantastic weekend!

Stay informed with A.M. ATL in your inbox every weekday morning. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to enter for a chance to watch the Atlanta United game with me!