Officials: Low Reading Skills Drive Crime

Long after researchers linked illiteracy to crime, Georgia officials say the state continues to feel the effects, with only one in three fourth graders reading proficiently and the state’s incarceration rate leading the nation.

Education experts, sheriffs, and former inmates point to low reading skills and poor reading instruction as big factors in the state’s crime rate, according to a report by Atlanta News First.

State lawmakers continue to push reading reforms in K-12 schools, including banning concept-based reading techniques in favor of phonics-based instruction.

  Bird Flu Hits Chicken Farm

A commercial poultry operation in Gordon County confirmed a case of bird flu, marking the third outbreak in a commercial facility and fifth overall in the state this year.

The site houses about 140,000 broiler chickens.

State and federal teams began depopulation and disinfection. A 6.2-mile quarantine zone was put in place, with any poultry operations in the zone placed under surveillance for at least two weeks.

State agriculture officials noted bird flu poses a potentially serious threat to one of the state’s top industries and employers.

Venue’s $190M Makeover Underway

Work has begun on the transformation of the Cobb Galleria Centre in Cobb County into the Cobb Convention Center-Atlanta, a multiphase project with a price tag of about $190 million.

The makeover calls for extensive renovations of the existing conference center and the addition of a two-story grand entryway, a 7,200-square-foot junior ballroom, 11 new meeting rooms, and an outdoor event courtyard.

Construction is expected to finish in early 2027.

The construction schedule calls for the center to remain fully closed until January while renovation of the ballroom and exhibit hall takes place.

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Tybee Island: Ten kayakers were safely rescued by fire crews after suddenly strong winds and currents left them stranded off Little Tybee Island on Saturday. (More)

➤ Canton and Suwanee: The cities earned Georgia Exceptional Main Street status for downtown revitalization and small business growth. (More)

➤ Atlanta: Sylvan Hills Middle School unveiled a tech-filled innovation lab with 3D printers and virtual reality tools, aiming to bridge the digital divide for students. (More)

➤ Statewide: A mother criticized the scope of Georgia’s law on newborn drug testing, saying she temporarily lost custody of her baby because of legally prescribed opioids. (More)

➤ DeKalb County: An innocent bystander celebrating her birthday was fatally shot during a shootout at a car meet-up. No arrests have been made. (More)

Enjoy reading The Georgia Flyover? Click here to share with your friends and family.✈️

➤ The equestrian team at the University of Georgia, ranked No. 1 in the nation, beat No. 9 UC Davis 15-3 in a head-to-head meet at home. The team will travel for a meet with Texas Christian on Nov. 7. (More)

➤ The Atlanta Falcons could still trade quarterback Kirk Cousins, according to analysts.  (More)

➤ Georgia wide receiver commit Craig Dandridge made two impressive pass receptions while Georgia coach Kirby Smart was in attendance at Dandridge’s high school game. (Watch)

➤ Yesterday’s Results: NFL | MLB | NBA | NHL | Soccer | Tennis

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Stop juggling chargers and risking your gear—upgrade to the PowerHub Surge Protector. With built-in surge protection, USB ports and AC outlets all in one tidy clamp-on design, it keeps your desk powered, safe and streamlined. Easy to install, ideal for at home or work. Charge smart—protect smarter. (LEARN MORE)

➤ General Motors will close its Georgia IT Innovation Center, cutting 300 jobs as part of a strategy shift to consolidate tech teams and reduce costs. (More)

➤ P.K. Moore Farm in Lowndes County was among more than a dozen farms honored as Centennial Farms at this month’s Georgia National Fair. (More)

➤ The neighborhoods of Trilith and Serenbe in the Atlanta area are among the communities reshaping small-town life in Georgia, blending walkability, wellness, and community. (More)

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Ready to trade like the pros? With Echo Trade you’ll follow registered investment advisors in real time, receive instant alerts when they trade, and copy their moves straight into your account. No guesswork, no hours of research—just smart investing made simple. Start your 14-day free trial now. (LEARN MORE)

Flying together with our sponsor

➤ Six Flags Over Georgia will host DC Heroes Fest Nov. 8-30, celebrating iconic DC superheroes and honoring community heroes with special events and free admission for select groups. (More)

➤ A group of friends calling themselves Dirty Luxury Official showcases the singing talents of Atlanta’s homeless by recording them using sidewalk studios and posting the videos online. (More)

➤ Wicked director Jon M. Chu and actress Zoey Deutch were among the special guests attending the SCAD Savannah Film Festival this past weekend, inspiring students with red carpet moments, insights, and industry advice. (More)

When was the last time you visited Six Flags Over Georgia?

1. This year
2. In the last 3 years
3. In the last 10 years
4. 10+ years ago
5. Never been

Yesterday’s Results:

Do you enjoy celebrating Halloween? 

1. Yes: 30%
2. No: 37%
3. Only with the kids: 33%

What year did the Atlanta Braves win their second World Series?

Show me the answer