Top 10 safety tips for New Year’s Eve

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December 28, 2025

New York New Years — The 7-foot tall 2026 numerals are displayed at an illumination ceremony in Times Square, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Gray)

Here are the top 10 safety tips for New Years Eve:

Secure a ride early

Rideshare prices and wait times increase between 12:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. Decision-making skills also decrease late at night. You should pre-book a ride early in the day. If you have a designated driver, confirm they are committed. If you walk, stay on lit roads. New Year’s Day is historically hazardous for pedestrians because of impaired drivers.

Drive defensively

Roads are full of people who have been drinking. Avoid driving during peak hours for impairment, which are ‘1:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.’ If you see a driver swerving, stay behind them. Do not try to pass. Pull over and call 911 when it is safe.

Make a ‘separation plan’

Cell phone networks often fail at midnight due to heavy traffic. This makes it hard to call friends if you get separated. You should set a physical meeting point, such as ‘the north entrance of the subway station,’ before you enter a crowded event. Agree on a time to meet there.

Watch drinks closely

Crowded bars are common places for drink spiking. Never leave a drink unattended. If you need to use the bathroom, finish the drink or hand it to a friend. If a drink tastes ‘off’ or salty, discard it immediately.

Post photos later

Posting real-time photos shows criminals that your home is empty. You should post photos and videos after you return home. Make your home look occupied while you are out by leaving a light on or a TV playing.

Leave fireworks to professionals

Amateur fireworks cause many injuries. If you use consumer fireworks, keep a bucket of water nearby. ‘Never’ attempt to relight a firework that failed to ignite. You must wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water.

Keep pets inside

Noise from fireworks can cause pets to panic. New Year’s Eve often sees an increase in lost pets. Keep animals indoors in an interior room with a radio on to hide outside noise. Check that collars and tags are secure before the night begins.

Open champagne carefully

A cork can fly fast and cause eye injuries. You should chill the champagne to ’45°F’ because warm bottles pop with more force. Angle the bottle 45 degrees away from people. Place a towel over the top to catch the cork while twisting.

Follow the ‘one-for-one’ rule

Drinking too much leads to alcohol poisoning and dehydration. Drink one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage. This paces intake. Eat a meal with protein and carbs before drinking to slow absorption.

Charge phones fully

A dead phone leaves you without access to maps or emergency contacts. Start the night with 100% battery and bring a portable charger. Cold weather drains batteries faster, so keep the phone in an ‘inside pocket’ to keep it warm.

The unselfish gift

By

Lynn Walker Gendusa

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December 28, 2025

As the Christmas season comes to a close, I often feel a little down when all the planning, decorating, and celebrating have ended. Afterward, we must prepare for the new year and consider the changes we want to make or how we can enhance our lives.

All those resolutions we make tend to be forgotten by the second month of the new year. The lettuce we bought to begin our diet has turned brown, and honestly, it’s really too cold to start that 5-mile-a-day walk.

Perhaps this is the year we should resolve to carry the true meaning of Christmas into 2026, inspiring us to make a lasting impact on the world.

During his 33 years on earth, Christ was many things—the great healer and teacher who connected us to God, His Father. Through His eyes and words, we learned the meaning of life and what is expected of us.

When He died, He did not leave us. His Holy Spirit remains with us, still teaching and guiding us with every step we take.

I am uncertain about what 2026 will bring, but things will not improve unless we heed Christ’s teachings. One thing we can all agree on is that Jesus was the least selfish person we will ever know. He cared nothing for gifts but gifted everyone with his presence.

He cared little for his own comfort but instead suffered enormously so that we could find comfort. He poured love upon us so that we could share it with others; yet, in the end, it was hatred and envy that crucified him.

Loathing truly kills, and jealousy destroys. There is only goodness to be gained from living selflessly, loving abundantly, and giving compassionately.

It was December 1964, a time when we, as teenagers, rarely thought of anyone other than ourselves. We were typical seventeen-year-olds in our senior year of high school. Our concern during Christmas focused on what we wanted from Santa and what we should buy our close friends. The idea of helping others who might be in need or less fortunate didn’t cross my immature mind. And if it did, I turned it off and tuned it out.

I have no idea whose idea it was to hand us a key to turn selfishness off, but whoever they were, may God keep blessing you forever.

Many of us belonged to youth groups in our respective churches. So, we did have some knowledge of the life of Christ and his teachings. Most of the time, however, only Sunday was reserved for paying attention to the Word.

Then an angel appeared to someone and said, “Instead of exchanging gifts this year, let’s do something different – let’s give to those in need.”

“Why? What?” I questioned, since I already had a few trinkets in mind as gifts for my closest buds.

“Well,” the angel said, “if we pooled the money we would usually spend and perhaps asked our parents for a bit more, we could buy toys for children whose parents can’t afford to provide them with gifts from Santa.”

It took us a moment to understand that the angel wasn’t from Mars, but once we started discussing the idea, excitement began to build.

When we let go of our selfishness, we not only open our hearts but also those of others.

On a sunny December day in the Fellowship Hall of our First United Methodist Church, a large group of teens surprised a gathering of children. One of our male friends, dressed as Santa, sat by the Christmas tree, surrounded by piles of toys wrapped in ribbons and bows.

“No one is ever going to believe you are Santa!” We all laughed when we saw our thin friend dressed in an oversized Santa costume, with a beard that kept falling off his chin.

A festive table was adorned with cookies, candy, and punch, while the sounds of squeals mingled with the cheerful tune of “Jingle Bells” in the hall.

Our teenage selfishness faded away as we all witnessed the joy on the children’s faces.

I don’t remember all the friends who participated, but I will never forget the child’s face when she cried as she opened her first baby doll. And our underage slim Santa truly became the real deal as he “ho, ho, hoed” his way into everyone’s hearts.

None of us has any idea what we received from Santa that year, but we were gifted so much more.

When we let go of our selfishness, we not only open our hearts but also those of others. This transforms lives and creates lasting memories that help heal broken spirits.

Most importantly, we honor the Christ Child and the true meaning of Christmas: His life, His death, and His love for us.

As we step into 2026, let’s not only improve our own lives but also make a positive impact on the world. Christ must be reflected through us.

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Lynn Walker Gendusa began her writing career as a columnist for the LaGrange News. Today, her essays are featured regularly throughout Georgia and Tennessee. Her work also appears in Guidepost, USA Today, The Atlanta Journal, MSN.com, among others. Lynn has authored two books; the latest, “Southern Comfort,” was published in 2022. She can be reached at www.lynngendusa.com. For more of her inspirational stories, click here.

Pedestrian struck and killed on River Road

By

Robbie Watson

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December 27, 2025

A death investigation is underway after a pedestrian was struck and killed on River Road on Saturday, December 27, 2025. A portion of the road is blocked to all traffic while the Columbus Police Department’s motor squad unit investigates.

A 48-year-old Phenix City resident was hit once by a vehicle before being run over by two more vehicles, according to the Muscogee County Coroner’s office. The victim’s identification is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin.

No. 12 BYU rallies to beat No. 24 Georgia Tech 25-21 to win Pop-Tarts Bowl

By

Associated Press

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December 27, 2025

AP25361770624137 — BYU tight end Carsen Ryan (20) is tackled by a Georgia Tech defensive player during the first half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Kevin Kolczynski)

ORLANDO (AP) — Jovesa Damuni scored on a 4-yard run with two minutes remaining and No. 12 BYU rallied from an 11-point deficit in the second half for a 25-21 win over No. 24 Georgia Tech on Saturday in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

Damuni’s scoring run capped a nine-play, 70 drive by the Cougars (12-2), who were led by freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. Bachmeier passed for 57 yards in the drive.

Bachmeier was 27 for 38 passing for 325 yards with a touchdown and an interception as the Cougars piled up 426 total yards. It was the freshman’s third 300-yard passing game of the season.

Georgia Tech (9-4) had a chance to tie the game when senior quarterback Haynes King found Eric Rivers down the sideline with a 66-yard pass on fourth-and-15 to the BYU 18-yard line with 35 seconds to play. Facing fourth down, King threw to the end zone for Jamal Haynes, but BYU’s Evan Johnson intercepted the pass in the end zone to secure the victory.

King was 23 for 41 passing for 254 yards, two touchdowns and the game-ending interception.

The Cougars fell 11 points behind due to a 10-second scoring binge by the Yellow Jackets.

Georgia Tech took a 14-10 lead on a King pass to Rivers with 5:28 to play in the first half. Cody Hagen muffed the ensuing kickoff and the Yellow Jackets recovered the fumble. One play later, King found tight end J.T. Byrne for a 6ix-yard TD pass.

Red Zone trouble

The game was defined by red zone troubles.

BYU took the opening drive and went for it on fourth and one, but Enoch Nawahine was stopped at the 1-yard line. The Cougars were 4 for 6 in the red zone, throwing an interception in the end zone in the third quarter.

Georgia Tech converted early, but ended the game 3 for 6 in the red zone, too. The Yellow Jackets fumbled the ball after a short catch in the third quarter at the 11-yard line. Aiden Birr’s 35-yard field goal late in the third quarter was blocked.

The game ended on a BYU interception in the end zone.

Jackets history

With a throw late in the second quarter, King set a Georgia Tech record for completions in a career. King finished his career with 676 completions in three seasons with the Yellow Jackets, passing Reggie Ball’s mark of 662 completions.

King also became the second player in Yellow Jackets’ history with 10,000 total yards, joining Joe Hamilton, who played at Georgia Tech from 1996-99 and tallied 10,640 yards.

King finished his career with 10,184 yards of total offense.

The takeaway

Georgia Tech: The Yellow Jackets ended a breakthrough season with Brent Key in disappointment, losing their final three games to miss out on the ACC championship game and College Football Playoff.

BYU: The Cougars scored another bowl victory and won their 12th game of the season, the first time BYU has won 12 games in a season since 2001.

Up next

Georgia Tech is to open its 2026 season at home against Colorado on Sept. 5.

BYU will open the 2026 season at home against Utah Tech on Sept. 5.

By AP’s Philip Rossman-Reich

Karl-Anthony Towns scores 36 and Jalen Brunson adds 34 as Knicks hold off struggling Hawks 128-125

By

Charles Odum

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December 27, 2025

Knicks Hawks Basketball — New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) and Atlanta Hawks forward Onyeka Okongwu (17) vie for a loose ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

ATLANTA (AP) — Karl-Anthony Towns scored a season-high 36 points with 16 rebounds, Jalen Brunson had 34 points and the New York Knicks survived Atlanta’s late comeback attempt to beat the slumping Hawks 128-125 on Saturday night.

The Hawks lost their sixth straight to wrap up a crushing 0-5 homestand. Atlanta is 5-11 overall at home.

Towns made 17 of 18 free throws while helping the Knicks take a dominant 56-38 advantage in rebounds.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who scored 25 points, had a steal and basket with 48 seconds remaining to give the Hawks a 125-124 lead. OG Anunoby made two free throws as the Knicks reclaimed the lead and, after he stole the ball following Trae Young’s pass, padded the lead with two more free throws.

Onyeka Okongwu led the Hawks with 31 points and 14 rebounds. Jalen Johnson recorded his 13th consecutive double-double with 20 points, 12 assists and nine rebounds before fouling out in the final minute.

The Knicks held out forward Josh Hart, who suffered a right ankle sprain in Thursday’s 126-124win over Cleveland. Guard Deuce McBride (left ankle sprain) also was inactive.

“I hope I don’t have to increase guys’ minutes,” said Knicks coach Mike Brown before the game. Rookie Mohamed Diawara of France was the fill-in starter for Hart.

Young, who had 30 points and seven assists in Friday night’s 126-111 home loss to Miami, scored only nine points with 10 assists while playing back-to-back nights for the first time since missing 21 games with a right MCL knee sprain.

Anunoby had 15 points and 10 rebounds for the Knicks, who have won nine of 11 including two straight.

Joseph G. “Joby” McGahee, Jr.

By

Now Habersham

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December 27, 2025

It is with profound sadness and grief that the family of Joseph G. “Joby” McGahee, Jr. announces his sudden passing on Christmas Day, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Joby was born on August 4, 1948, at Walker Clinic—formerly known as the Charm House—to Joseph G. McGahee, Sr. and Mardelle Shirley McGahee. He was a Boy Scout with Troop 24 in Cornelia, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He later became the proud father of two Eagle Scouts and the grandfather of two Eagle Scouts.

Joby was among Habersham County’s earliest paramedics and was always impressed by how the local EMT profession continued to grow. He bravely served his country as a combat infantryman during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he worked alongside his family at McGahee Furniture Store in downtown Cornelia.

He later opened Lock, Stock & Barrel, a gun shop where he found great joy helping hunters prepare for each season. However, Joby’s true calling began when someone brought him a clock to see if he could make it run. He educated himself, attended seminars, and apprenticed under several “old-timers” in New York, Kansas, and Atlanta, gaining extensive experience with high-end antique clocks. Over the years, more than ten thousand clocks crossed his workbench, arriving from many states. He took equal pride in restoring a common household clock as well as historically significant timepieces.

As a hobby, Joby enjoyed making contacts through amateur (ham) radio. Holding an Extra Class license, he connected with hundreds of operators around the world.

All of these interests and accomplishments were secondary to the joy of his 52 years of marriage to his beloved wife, Edna.

Along with Edna, Joby is survived by his sons, Jake and his wife, Emily, and Clayton and his wife, Jennifer. He was blessed with two grandsons, Joseph and Mitchell, who were very special to him, and whom he adored.

Additional survivors include his sister, Becky Chambers, and her husband, Don; their children and grandchildren; brothers-in-law Sam Hulsey and his son Tim Hulsey, and Jerry Hulsey and his wife Patty, along with their children and grandchildren; and sister-in-law Judy Henzel and her husband John, and their children and grandchildren.

Joby’s family was his true treasure and a gift from God. He always felt God’s presence and guidance throughout his life and often shared that God had spared him from the perils of war for the family that was yet to come. Always kind and patient, Joby was mindful that he was a witness for our Lord Jesus Christ in every day and in every activity.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home, with Mr. Clayton McGahee, Mr. John Henzel, and Rev. Kenneth McEntire officiating. Interment will follow at Yonah Memorial Gardens, with military honors provided by the Grant Reeves Honor Guard.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12:00 p.m. until the service hour on Tuesday. An online guest registry is available at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse (samaritanspurse.org) or Team Rubicon USA (teamrubiconusa.org).

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706-778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.

Baldwin resident challenges city on school zone speed cameras

By

Kevin Angell

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December 27, 2025

In mid-December, Now Habersham received an email complaint from citizen April Rooks regarding the school speed zone cameras in the City of Baldwin. Rooks raised several concerns regarding the operation of the cameras, the flashing warning lights in the area, and how the city uses funds generated by citations.

Now Habersham reached out to Baldwin Police Chief Chris Jones regarding the accusations. Chief Jones replied with responses to Rooks’ concerns and minutes from City of Baldwin meetings.

The school zone cameras have long raised concerns with citizens, some calling them “revenue generators.”

Citizen concerns

Rooks challenged the legitimacy and constitutionality of the camera program. She alleged the cameras are driven by revenue rather than safety. She described the cameras as a ‘speed trap’ managed by lobbyists.

One of Rook’s primary grievances involved the flashing school zone lights. She claimed the lights flash continuously, even outside of legal school zone hours, which confuses drivers. She stated that the cameras issue citations all day from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. regardless of the lights.

Rooks also questioned the judicial process for those who receive tickets. She reported attending a hearing at which she met with a solicitor, but no judge was present. She argued this denied her constitutional rights.

Rooks also alleged a misuse of funds. Citing Georgia Code 40-14-18, she noted that revenue from these cameras must be used for “public safety initiatives.” She questioned whether spending nearly $10,000 on courtroom furniture and purchasing a utility trailer fit this legal requirement.

Explain Georgia Code 40-14-18 — (NowGeorgia.com)

Finally, Rooks expressed concern over political influence. She alleged that camera companies, specifically Blue Line Solutions and Red Speed, have donated approximately $200,000 to lawmakers to keep these programs active.

Police Chief’s response

Chief Jones defended the program, stating that the safety of children is the primary goal. He argued that the cameras have shifted the financial burden of enforcing speed limits from taxpayers to violators.

Jones provided statistics to support the program’s effectiveness. He claimed that since the implementation of the cameras, there has been a “reduction in speeding violations exceeding 90%” compared to a test period conducted in 2023.

Regarding the flashing lights, Jones acknowledged that they stay on longer than intended. However, he stated this is the responsibility of the Habersham County Board of Education. Jones said he and the assistant chief have spoken to school board representatives, but the issue remains unresolved. He clarified that the lights “do not have any influence on the operation of the speed camera or the speed limit the camera enforces.”

Jones also addressed the judicial process. He clarified that while a violator initially speaks with a solicitor, a judge is “present in the building” and available if the violator requests to speak with them.

Regarding the use of funds, Jones justified the expenditures. He stated that the purchase of chairs and furniture was “deemed as a public safety initiative by City of Baldwin Administration and the Baldwin City Council.” He added that the utility trailer was purchased for the Baldwin Fire Department to transport lifesaving and traffic control equipment.

Key Ares of Conflict graphic — (NowGeorgia.com)

Additional findings

Now Habersham has reached out to Murray Kogod, the Director of School Safety and Chief of Police for the Habersham County School System, for comment on the timing of the flashing lights. Kogod did not respond.

Now Habersham also contacted Altumint, the vendor that operates the speed cameras in front of Baldwin Elementary School. Records indicate that Rooks received a citation for speeding on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 3:36 p.m. This time falls within the posted school zone hours. Information regarding the camera systems is available on the Altumint website.

Speed camera legislation update

The debate in Baldwin mirrors a larger legislative battle in Georgia. House Bill 225 was introduced to repeal laws that allow automated speed detection cameras in school zones.

The bill passed the House and, in the spring of 2025, the Senate with an amendment. However, the House and Senate disagreed on the effective date of the ban. The Senate version pushed the date to July 1, 2028, while the House aimed for an earlier date. Because the two chambers did not agree before the session ended, the bill is effectively on hold until the legislature reconvenes in January.

Senator Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia) has championed the bill to ban the cameras. Tillery, who launched a campaign for Lt. Governor in August 2025, frequently uses the phrase “taxation by citation” to describe the revenue-generating nature of third-party contracts. Conversely, Senator Billy Hickman (R-Statesboro) was one of the few Republican Senators to vote against HB 225.

Opponents of the cameras cite instances where cities were forced to issue refunds due to errors. For example, Jonesboro issued refunds after cameras ticketed drivers when school was not in session. Atlanta faced similar issues with signage and timing glitches that led to dismissals.

Legislators are expected to revisit HB 225 in the upcoming session to reconcile the House and Senate versions.

Georgia fireworks guide: dates, times and local restrictions

By

Kevin Angell

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December 27, 2025

HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Georgia law regarding consumer fireworks is generally permissible but comes with regulations concerning time, location, and noise. The law, found primarily in O.C.G.A. Title 25, Chapter 10, attempts to balance the right to celebrate with public safety and local peace.

Residents must understand what is legal, when they can shoot fireworks, and where they are prohibited from doing so.

What is legal to buy and use

Georgia allows the sale and use of ‘consumer fireworks,’ classified as 1.4G explosives, to persons 18 years of age or older.

Legal items include firecrackers, roman candles, bottle rockets, sky rockets, mortars/aerial shells, and sparklers. However, it is illegal to sell or release sky lanterns, also known as floating or balloon lanterns, into the air or waterways.

Sellers are required to check identification, as you must be at least 18 years old to purchase these items.

Allowable dates and times

State law sets a baseline for when fireworks are permitted. The rules differ between regular days and holiday dates.

On specific dates, state law preempts local noise ordinances. This means a city or county cannot ban fireworks or restrict the times further than what the state allows.

Permitted times under state law are:

New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31): 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM

New Year’s Day (Jan. 1): Midnight – 1:00 AM and 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM

Memorial Day Weekend: 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM

July 3rd and 4th: 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM

Labor Day: 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM

Non-holiday days

On any other day not listed above, the state default allows fireworks from 10 AM to 11:59 PM. However, local governments can enforce general noise ordinances on these days. If a city has a noise ordinance mandating quiet hours starting at 9 PM, residents must stop shooting fireworks at that time.

Prohibited locations

Even within the legal timeframe, state law prohibits igniting fireworks in or near specific locations.

You cannot shoot fireworks on public roads or within the right-of-way of any street or highway. Additionally, you must be at least 100 yards away from specific facilities, including:

Gas stations or fuel refineries
Electric substations or plants
Jails or prisons
Helipads
Hospitals, nursing homes, or healthcare facilities
Water or wastewater treatment plants

Fireworks are also banned in public parks, historic sites, or recreational areas owned by the government unless the user has a special-use permit.

Private property and equine zones

Residents generally have the right to use fireworks on their own private property. If on someone else’s property, you must have express permission.

A newer provision allows counties to pass ordinances prohibiting fireworks within 200 yards of a facility that houses horses. Residents should check specific county rules if they live near a horse farm.

Northeast Georgia restrictions

According to our research, counties like Hall, Habersham, and White default to state law. However, cities within those counties often have ordinances that limit fireworks on non-holidays.

Athens-Clarke County

On non-holidays, it is a violation of the local noise ordinance to shoot fireworks if the noise is ‘plainly audible’ at a distance of 100 feet or more from the property line. This practically makes shooting fireworks illegal in most Athens neighborhoods on non-holidays.

City of Toccoa

Toccoa has an ordinance that makes it unlawful to discharge fireworks anywhere inside the city limits. While state law allows it on July 4th, police enforce nuisance provisions on other days.

City of Clayton

The City of Clayton prohibits the discharge of explosives within city limits. Residents must be outside the city limits to legally shoot them.

Lake Hartwell and federal land

Fireworks are prohibited on all US Army Corps of Engineers property. This includes the waters of Lake Hartwell, the shoreline, and any Corps-managed campgrounds. This is a federal violation and is subject to fines.

Safety and drought

It is illegal in Georgia to use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

There is an exception to these rules for drought. If the Keetch-Byram Drought Index reaches 700 or higher, the Governor can issue a declaration prohibiting the use of fireworks in affected counties. If a ban is in effect, you cannot shoot fireworks even on July 4th.

“As the holiday season approaches, the Cornelia Police Department would like to remind residents of the importance of safety when celebrating Christmas and the New Year, especially with the use of fireworks. While fireworks can bring excitement and joy to celebrations, it is important that they are used responsibly to prevent injuries, fires, and disturbances in our community,” said Cornelia Chief of Police Johnathan Roberts.

Consumers will see a 5% excise tax on fireworks receipts. This revenue is dedicated to the Georgia Trauma Care Network, firefighter equipment, and local public safety.

Check yourself for safety

Summary checklist for safe use

[ ] Time: Is it between 10 AM and 11:59 PM? (Or until 1 AM on New Year’s?)

[ ] Location: Are you 100 yards away from gas stations, hospitals, and power stations?

[ ] Property: Are you on your own property or do you have permission?

[ ] Sobriety: Are you sober?

[ ] Drought: Has the Governor declared a drought ban for your county?

‘Walk for Peace’ enters West Georgia

By

Robbie Watson

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December 27, 2025

Buddhist monks Walk for Peace was met by big crowds as their trek to Washington, D.C. entered West Georgia. According to the official Facebook page for Walk for Peace it was “An Unforgettable Welcome in West Point, Georgia – Last night in West Point, Georgia was extraordinary.”

The post went on to state:

“From the moment we crossed the state border all the way to our night rest location, we heard cheers. A big crowd was waiting to welcome the Walk for Peace. People lined the entire route—holding space, waiting patiently.

And when the venerable monks arrived, that anticipation transformed into joyful celebration. The energy was beautiful, the love was palpable, the connection was real.
Later in the evening, surrounded by the support of everyone there, we all settled back into peaceful time together—a moment of stillness after the celebration, a reminder of why we walk.

West Point, you welcomed us with open arms and open hearts. We are deeply moved by your warmth. Thank you. May you and all beings be well, happy and at peace.”

The monks will make their way to LaGrange and Hogansville on day 63 of their journey. The Walk for Peace is a 120-day, 2,300-mile journey by Buddhist monks — with loyal dog, Aloka — walking from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C. to raise awareness of peace, loving kindness, and compassion across America and the world.

Anonymous money fuels $5 million in attacks on Georgia’s Lt. Gov. Burt Jones

By

Jeff Amy

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December 27, 2025

AP25338734602631-2 — FILE - Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones speaks at a campaign event at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on Oct. 15, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

ATLANTA (AP) — It’s the biggest mystery in Georgia politics right now: Who’s paying for the attacks on Republican Lt. Gov. Burt Jones?

Someone operating under the name “Georgians for Integrity” has dumped around $5 million into television ads, mailers and texts. The attacks claim Jones, who already has President Donald Trump’s endorsement in his run for governor next year, has been using his office to enrich himself.

For any Georgian settling down to watch a football game, the ads have been nearly inescapable since Thanksgiving. They’re the opening shot in the public battle for the Republican nomination that will be settled in May’s primary election. But the ads also show how dark money is influencing politics not only at the national level but in the states, with secretive interests dropping big sums seeking to shift public opinion.

The Jones campaign is hopping mad, threatening legal action against television stations if they don’t stop airing ads that a lawyer calls “demonstrably false” and slanderous.

So far, the ads remain on air.

“They want to be anonymous, spend a lot of money, and create a lot of lies about myself and my family,” Jones told WSB-AM in an interview Dec. 16, calling the ads “fabricated trash.”

Attorney General Chris Carr and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, Jones’ top rivals for the Republican nomination, say they are not involved in the attacks. All three want to succeed Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, who can’t run again because of term limits. There are also multiple Democrats vying for the state’s top office.

Dark money marches on

The Georgia Republican Party has filed a complaint with the State Ethics Commission. The GOP claims the ads violate Georgia’s campaign finance law against spending on an election without registering and disclosing donors.

“I think there are far-reaching consequences to allowing this activity to go forward unchecked,” state Republican Party Chairman Josh McKoon told The Associated Press. “And the consequences are much broader than the outcome of the May primary.”

It’s a further filtering down of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision, which led to dramatic increases in independent spending in U.S. elections, said Shanna Ports, senior legal counsel for the Washington, D.C.-based Campaign Legal Center, which seeks to reduce the influence of money in politics.

“Dark money is becoming more and more the norm in races, up and down the ballot, and at early times,” Ports said.

Claims that Jones has been engaged in self-dealing are nothing new —- Carr has been making similar attacks for months. But things escalated after Georgians for Integrity was incorporated in Delaware on Nov. 24, according to that state’s corporation records. The entity identifies itself as a nonprofit social welfare organization under the federal tax code, a popular way to organize campaign spending that lets a group hide its donors.

The Jones campaign says the ad falsely leads viewers to believe that Jones enabled government to take land through eminent domain to help support his family’s interest in a massive data center development in Jones’ home county south of Atlanta. As a state senator, Jones did vote for a 2017 law that opened a narrow exception in Georgia’s law prohibiting governments from conveying property seized through condemnation proceedings to private developers. But eminent domain isn’t being used to benefit the $10 billion development that government filingsshow could include 11 million square feet (1 million square meters) of data centers.

Group’s records are a dead end

Georgians for Integrity lists its local address as a mailbox at an Atlanta office supply store east on some paperwork submitted to television stations. A media buyer named Alex Roberts, with a Park City, Utah, address, is also listed on those papers, but he hasn’t responded to an email from the AP. Neither has Kimberly Land, a Columbus, Ohio, lawyer listed on incorporation papers. After weeks of heavy spending, no one has proved who’s providing the cash.

The Republican Party contends Georgians for Integrity is an independent committee under Georgia law. That means it can raise and spend unlimited sums, but must register before accepting contributions and must disclose its donors.

But that law identifies such committees as expending “funds either for the purpose of affecting the outcome of an election for any elected office or to advocate the election or defeat of any particular candidate.” And the ads targeting Jones don’t ever identify him as running for governor or mention the 2026 elections, instead urging viewers to call Jones and “Tell Burt, stop profiting off taxpayers.”

But McKoon said those are “semantic games” and that regular voters would definitely think the ads are designed to influence them.

“If you are funding a message that is designed to impact an election — and I think it strains credulity to argue that that is not the case here — then you ought to have to comply with the campaign finance laws that the legislature has seen fit to pass,” McKoon said.

Anaconda

By

Justin Hall

-

December 27, 2025

Anaconda is the latest franchise getting the reboot treatment in 2025. Or is it a remake? Or a spiritual sequel of sorts to the original? It’s certainly one of those things, according to the characters, but mainly it’s an inconsistent and unnecessary movie despite the talent involved.

This remake (or reboot, reimagining,etc) stars Paul Rudd and Jack Black as Griff and Doug, two guys who love the original Anaconda from 1997 and have been wanting to make their own version of it. Griff has a career as an unfulfilled actor, while Doug is a wedding videographer. They both see their lives fleeting away and want a chance to chase their impossible dream.

Griff buys the rights to Anaconda and he and Doug take off for the Amazon with two other friends (Steve Zahn and Thandiwe Newton) as they begin working to make the film. They also bring along a snake wrangler with his own anaconda that gets accidentally killed by Griff, and the crew has to try and find another one.

While searching for a new snake, they also have to deal with a woman named Ana (Daniela Melchior) who wants to stop an illegal gold mining operation, but the crew recognizes she might have some skills to be used for their film. Of course, there’s also a problem as a real-life anaconda finds them and threatens to put them on the menu.

I had very few expectations going into this remake of Anaconda, largely because the trailers didn’t look appealing, and for the most part, I was right. Rudd and Black do what they can to hold the movie together, but the script deprives them of any chance to bust loose and let its premise fly largely because it feels restricted by its PG-13 rating. If this were rated R, it would’ve had a ludicrous energy and humor that would’ve fit the talents of its two leads.

Nor is the movie that certain of its tone. First, it’s comedic. Then it tries a few scares, and by the climax it goes into action movie territory. Just when we think it might have some semblance of what it’s trying to be, it changes directions just like a snake.

The movie does have some clever ideas about being meta, but they’re few and far between when those ideas are explored before it settles back into its inconsistent mood and style.

Rudd and Black are likeable, energetic, and charismatic comedic performers, but they never really got me laughing. It’s not really their fault, and while I wouldn’t call this remake a disaster, it’s certainly a missed opportunity.

If these two guys can’t pull off Anaconda, I certainly don’t want to see what Jim Carrey and Adam Sandler could do with a reimagining of Lake Placid. Or even Mike Myers with a reimagining of Arachnophobia. You get the idea.

Grade: C+

(Rated PG-13 for violence/action, strong language, some drug use and suggestive references.)

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Winter storm snarls holiday travel across US Northeast, Great Lakes

By

Associated Press

-

December 27, 2025

AP25361515846509 — FILE - An American Airlines plane arrives at the O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)

BOSTON (AP) — More than a thousand flights were canceled or delayed across the Northeast and Great Lakes regions due to snow as thousands took to roads and airports during the busy travel period between Christmas and New Year’s.

New York City received about 4 inches of snow Friday night into early Saturday — slightly under what some forecasts had predicted. At least 1,500 flights were canceled from Friday night, according to flight-tracking service FlightAware. But by the morning, both the roads and the skies were clearing.

“The storm is definitely winding down, a little bit of flurries across the Northeast this morning,” said Bob Oravec, a Maryland-based forecaster at the National Weather Service.

Oravec said the storm was moving from the northwest toward the Southeast, with the largest snowfall in the New York City area reaching over 6 inches in central eastern Long Island. Farther north in the Catskills, communities saw as much as 10 inches.

Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International and LaGuardia airports posted snow warnings on the social media platform X on Friday cautioning that weather conditions could cause flight disruptions.

The National Weather Service warned of hazardous travel conditions from the Great Lakes through the northern mid-Atlantic and southern New England, with the potential for tree damage and power outages.

In Times Square, workers in red jumpsuits worked to clear the sludge- and powder-coated streets and sidewalks using shovels and snowblowers.

Jennifer Yokley, who was there on a holiday trip from North Carolina, said she was excited to see snow accumulating as it dusted buildings, trees and signs throughout the city.

“I think it was absolutely beautiful,” she said.

Payton Baker and Kolby Gray, who were visiting from West Virginia, said the snow was a Christmas surprise for their third anniversary trip.

“Well, it’s very cold, and it was very unexpected,” Baker said, her breath visible in the winter air. “The city is working pretty well to get all the roads salted and everything, so it’s all right.”

Ahead of the storm, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for more than half the state. Acting New Jersey Gov. Tahesha Way also declared a state of emergency for that state.

“This storm will cause dangerous road conditions and impact holiday travel,” Way said in a statement. “We are urging travelers to avoid travel during the storm and allow crews to tend to the roads. Drivers should plan their travel accordingly, monitor conditions and road closures, and follow all safety protocols.”

4 dead in California

On the other side of the country, California was experiencing a fairly dry weekend after powerful storms battered the state with heavy rains, flash flooding and mudslides. At least four people were killed including a man who was found dead Friday in a partially submerged car near Lancaster, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported.

Some mountainous areas received 10 to 18 inches of rain over three days, peaking on Christmas Eve, National Weather Service meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld said. There were varied amounts of rain in other populated areas, including up to 4 inches across the Los Angeles Basin and many coastal areas.

There was significant damage to homes and cars in Wrightwood, a 5,000-resident mountain town about 80 miles northeast of Los Angeles, as floods and mudslides turned roads into rivers and buried vehicles in rock and debris.

Before rain reappears in the forecast later next week, California was expected to experience Santa Ana winds with gusts of over 60 mph in mountainous areas from Sunday night through Tuesday. The winds could uproot saturated trees and cause power outages.

By Leah Willingham and Julie Walker