As we say goodbye to 2024, we look back at the Top 10 most-read stories on the Rough Draft website over the last year.
1. Where to see the partial eclipse in Georgia
A story from our media partner GPB about the April 8 partial eclipse captured the most readers in 2024
2. Taco Mac owners acquire Atlanta burger and bar institution The Vortex
Senior Food Editor Beth McKibben’s story from January about the team behind Taco Mac and Mary Mac’s Tea Room buying The Vortex.
3. Helene brings flooding, downed trees and power outages to metro Atlanta
Our coverage of the devastating hurricane in September was a team effort, with a live blog of updates running for a week.
4. Soon-to-close Dunwoody Walmart had constant criminal presence
Reporter Newspapers Managing Editor Cathy Cobbs reported on the crime statistics that may have contributed to the surprise July closure of the retailer.
5. Tensions mount over Portman’s planned redevelopment of Amsterdam Walk
A proposal to redevelop Amsterdam Walk into a mixed-use development with high-rise officers and apartments along the Atlanta Beltline divided neighbors. The project is currently on hold.
6. State removes list of low-performing schools eligible for voucher program
The Governor’s Office of Student Achievement took down a list of low-performing public schools twice in the fall while it continues to “validate” the data. The list determines which students are eligible for the Promise Schools voucher program. A new list has yet to be released.
7. Dunwoody residents and tenants clash with shopping center owner over rezoning proposal
A July community meeting turned ugly after the owners of Mount Vernon Shopping Center over plans to rezone the property to allow for more commercial issues. After some wrangling, the rezoning proposal has gained some support and may be finalized by spring.
8. Longtime regulars purchase The Colonnade, vowing to preserve its legacy
Longtime regulars Lewis Jeffries and Paul Donahue become only the third owners of the Cheshire Bridge Road dining institution in its 97-year history.
9. 2024 Michelin Guide to Atlanta drops
The October release of the 2024 Michelin Guide to Atlanta recognized 57 restaurants.
10. New Georgia law regulating hemp industry goes into effect Oct. 1
Dyana Bagby reported on new regulations for Georgia’s hemp industry that banned the sale of products like CBD to anyone under 21.
