New and returning state lawmakers met in Athens this week to learn about the legislative process and state policy.

The Biennial Institute, held at the University of Georgia, lasted three days and concluded with an address from Gov. Brian Kemp, who outlined his key legislative priorities, including relief for Hurricane Helene.

Kemp mentioned that his team is working on a state relief package to be introduced in the first week of the new session. House Speaker Jon Burns supported quick passage of the Helene relief, suggesting that some legislation could follow the approach used for the Hurricane Michael relief in 2017.

Kemp noted that tort reform is also important for small business owners, while Burns emphasized mental health as a top priority for the House. The 2025 legislative session begins on January 13.

As Georgia wraps up a brisk holiday season marked by lower temperatures, residents are preparing to witness a celestial event that aligns perfectly with the season: the Cold Moon. The Cold Moon, which occurs in December, derives its name from the long, frigid nights characteristic of this time of year. According to NASA, the name was popularized by the Maine Farmers’ Almanac, which began publishing Native American names for full moons in the 1930s. Over the years, “The Cold Moon” has become a widely recognized term, evoking imagery of frosty evenings and the peacefulness of winter. In addition to the Cold Moon, this month’s full moon is also known by several other names that reflect the essence of December. Among them are the Frost Moon, the Winter Moon, the Moon before Yule, the Oak Moon, the Long Night Moon, and the Child Moon. Each name tells a story of seasonal change and the traditions that accompany it. The Cold Moon will reach peak illumination over Georgia at 4:01 a.m. Sunday.

A 33-year-old woman, Kortni Hales Cruce, was arrested on December 3rd after being pulled over for speeding and suspected driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. According to the police report, Corporal Corey Fielding responded to a call for assistance at approximately 10:33 PM at the Dollar General Store on Highway 48. Deputies had initiated a traffic stop after clocking Cruce’s vehicle traveling at 81 miles per hour in a 55 mph zone. Upon arriving at the scene, Officer Fielding approached Cruce’s vehicle and immediately detected the odor of alcohol. During the initial questioning, Cruce admitted to consuming one margarita around 8 PM that evening. Observations of her condition indicated “heavy” and “watery” eyes, raising further concerns about her sobriety. Fielding conducted a series of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and a breathalyzer test subsequently revealed a blood alcohol concentration of .112, exceeding the legal limit. Despite being read the Georgia Implied Consent Notice, Cruce initially consented to a chemical blood test but later refused to participate in the testing process. As a result, she was arrested and transported to the Chattooga County Jail. Cruce has been charged with DUI (misdemeanor) and speeding, and was served with an Administrative License Suspension for her refusal to submit to further testing.

New Laws will begin in Georgia on Jan. 1, 2025, changing tax policy, election laws, and education.

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A Floyd County man, Robert Keith Tincher III, was sentenced to life in prison without parole on Wednesday for the murder of his grandmother, Doris Cummings. During the virtual sentencing hearing from Floyd County Jail, Tincher showed no emotion or remorse. He had pleaded guilty to killing Cummings and putting her alive into a freezer.

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Summerville Main Street extends an invitation to the public to enjoy the Summerville Depot fully decorated for Christmas during Christmas Open House Friday, December 13th through Sunday, December 15th. Admission to the special Christmas Open House is free. Countless photo opportunities and holiday joy have been planned for families to make the open house a memorable event.

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Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson has warned the public about a rise in scam calls where scammers impersonate Sheriff’s Office staff. Many residents have reported getting calls from people claiming to represent the sheriff, asking for payments through cash, bitcoin, or Green Dot cards to settle fake debts or outstanding warrants. Sheriff Wilson stated, “Please know that the Sheriff’s Office will never contact you asking for money, bitcoin, or Green Dot cards. ” He advised citizens to protect their personal information and not share it with unknown callers. The scammers often use threats to create fear of legal trouble or arrest if demands are not met. Sheriff Wilson urged everyone to be cautious and to verify the identity of anyone requesting money. If you get such a call, hang up and contact the Sheriff’s Office directly. Residents should report any suspicious activities to the Walker County Sheriff’s Office for assistance.

The School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Georgia surveyed registered voters on various aspects of the voting process in Georgia during the recent Presidential election. The 2024 Georgia Post-Election Survey showed positive results for Georgia voters and reflected the efforts of election administrators across the state.

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Georgia’s economy is expected to grow by 2. 4% in 2025, a decrease from 3. 1% this year, according to Ben Ayers, dean of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Despite this slowdown, Georgia’s performance will remain better than the national average of 1. 6% growth. Ayers noted that the slowdown is due to a planned policy change rather than unexpected shocks, which suggests it will be gradual and short-lived.

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The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) announced 23 projects in October 2024, which include bridge rehabilitation, resurfacing, safety improvements, and new bridge construction. The largest project is a bridge construction along 1. 003 miles on US 41/SR 11/SR 49 over the Norfolk Southern Railway, costing about $21 million. This project and three others make up 40% of the total funds awarded this month.  Only one of the projects listed in the latest round of funding is in Northwest Georgia.

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