Good morning, Marietta.

Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church distributed food, toys, and essential items to over 400 local families on Thursday morning ahead of Christmas, aiming to brighten holiday celebrations across the community.

A Marietta player won $10,000 playing Elephant King Jackpots on Dec.

16 using the Georgia Lottery mobile app and website.

Hartsfield-Jackson airport expects 5.3 million holiday travelers from today until Sunday, Jan.

4, with a projected peak on Dec. 26; passengers should arrive two hours early for domestic flights + three hours for international flights and check the airport website for parking and security updates.

Several holiday events are happening this weekend across metro Atlanta & north Georgia, offering live music, festive performances and family activities.

In Marietta, the Earl Smith Strand Theatre hosts a holiday show running until Dec. 21, inviting locals to enjoy seasonal cheer.

High school students from Cobb Schools joined with middle and elementary peers to hold annual Shop With events that spread Christmas cheer this holiday season across the district.

Kennesaw State University senior Toni-Ann McKenzie (a double major in Entrepreneurship and Management) co-founded a virtual tutoring company that uses clear emojis to help autistic students learn better.

She will graduate this week and plans to pursue new opportunities for her innovative project.

General manager Cole Blackwell of the Cobb-Marietta Water Authority warned lawmakers that forever chemicals + rising data center demands are straining local water resources.

He urged legislators to consider a ban to safeguard public health.

Ginger, a 4-year-old American pit bull terrier, is available for adoption at Cobb County Animal Services Shelter in Marietta.

Walk-ins are welcome, though appointments (bookable online anytime) help manage visit flow.

Cobb County Animal Services in Marietta features Storm, a 3-month-old female grey tabby/buff short-haired kitten available for adoption at 1060 Al Bishop Drive.

Visitors can schedule an appointment anytime while walk-ins are welcome (please call 770-499-4136 for details).

Cobb County leaders are preparing for large crowds from international soccer fans during upcoming World Cup training sessions at the Atlanta United Training facility, Kennesaw State University, and Paces Academy.

They have applied for federal grants to boost safety, transportation (and emergency management) measures.

Georgia Ballet - The Nutcracker

2:00-3:30 p.m. — Jennie T. Anderson Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical winter wonderland with The Nutcracker, featuring stunning choreography and Tchaikovsky’s music.

Holiday Movies at The Strand: It's A Wonderful Life

11:00 a.m. — Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre — Ticket details not provided — Enjoy the heartwarming classic 'It's A Wonderful Life' with popcorn and drinks.

White Elephant Christmas Run

8:30 AM – 2:30 PM — Etowah River Park — Entry fee varies — Celebrate Christmas Eve morning with a fun family-friendly run, sporting your best or ugliest holiday attire.

Homegrown Winter Jam Featuring Funk Cake and Davis & The Love

8-9:30 p.m. — Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre — Tickets available — Celebrate the vibrant sounds of Funk Cake and Davis & The Love at this lively winter jam.

Champions - A Celebration of Queen

9:00 – 10:30 PM — Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience iconic Queen hits including 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and 'Somebody to Love'.