Georgia Today Podcast Summary Episode Title: Wintry weather approaches Georgia; Jimmy Carter funeral services conclude in Plains
Release Date: January 9, 2025
Host: Peter Biello

1. Governor Kemp Declares State of Emergency Amid Approaching Wintry Weather

In today's episode, GPB News highlights Governor Brian Kemp's declaration of a state of emergency across Georgia due to an impending winter storm. The severe weather conditions are expected to bring snow and ice to metro Atlanta and surrounding areas, causing treacherous roadways and potential power outages.

Key Points:

• Impact on Daily Life: Schools are closed, flights are canceled or delayed, and millions are put on alert.
• Weather Forecast: Dr. Marshall Shepard, Director of the Atmospheric Sciences Program at UGA, explains the storm's progression and its potential impacts on different regions of Georgia.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Marshall Shepard [02:08]: “I think we are setting up for a wintry mess for much of north and central Georgia with the first of the winter weather moving in early Friday morning, likely as a snow wintry mix, but then transitioning to an icy mix in the afternoon, which always worries me.”
• Dr. Marshall Shepard [06:04]: “I have a college age daughter and a son in high school. He plays basketball at Tequila High School. Their games have been canceled for the weekend.”

Preparations and Safety Measures:

• Governor Kemp's Actions: Declaration of a state of emergency, closure of schools, and ensuring state crews are brining roads and highways to prevent ice accumulation.
• Emergency Management Advice: Chris Stallings, Director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, urges residents to stay home during the peak of the storm, estimating travel hazards to last about 12 hours starting Friday.

Additional Guidance:

• Dr. Shepard [07:04]: “Certainly the hope is Sunday at the latest. So I don't see a need for run on supplies at the store. Probably everything you've got in your home is sufficient.”
• Practical Tips: Residents are advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to prepare for possible power outages by securing provisions at home.

2. Georgia House Speaker John Burns Outlines Legislative Priorities for 2025 General Assembly

Georgia House Speaker John Burns shares his vision for the upcoming legislative session, emphasizing a focus on public safety, healthcare, and education. Speaker Burns aims to address critical issues affecting Georgians' quality of life through impactful legislation.

Key Points:

• Legislative Focus: Public safety, healthcare, education, banning transgender girls from participating in school sports, protections for in vitro fertilization (IVF), tort reform, and increasing the medical workforce.
• Readiness and Proactivity: Burns highlights the legislature's preparedness to address these issues promptly.

Notable Quotes:

• John Burns [00:49]: “The House will focus on public safety, health care and education this session.”
• Jason Carter [00:54]: “We're going to hit the ground running. We're going to work up front because we've been working on these issues over the interim and we're going to be ready. Education we all know in this room there's no more important issue that affect Georgians and our quality of life than education of our people.”

Specific Legislative Goals:

• Education: Emphasizing its paramount importance, Burns advocates for policies that enhance educational quality and accessibility.
• Transgender Sports Ban: Introducing legislation to prohibit transgender girls from participating in school athletics.
• IVF Protections: Codifying legal protections for in vitro fertilization processes.
• Tort Reform and Medical Workforce: Aiming to streamline legal processes and bolster the healthcare sector by expanding the medical workforce.

Reporter Insights: Sarah Kalis from GPB News reports on Speaker Burns' priorities, providing an in-depth look at the legislative agenda set for the 2025 General Assembly.

3. Conclusion of Funeral Services for Former President Jimmy Carter in Plains

The podcast covers the heartfelt conclusion of six days of funeral services honoring former President Jimmy Carter in his hometown of Plains. The services included both intimate gatherings and grand ceremonies attended by national dignitaries.

Key Points:

• Service Locations: A small family service at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains and a large ceremony at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
• Eulogies and Tributes: Notable figures, including Jason Carter and former UN Ambassador Andrew Young, shared their memories and tributes to President Carter.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason Carter [09:02]: “Jimmy Carter was a blessing that helped to create a great United States of America. And for all of us and many who are not able to be here, I want to say thank you. You have been a blessing from God.”
• John Burns [09:25]: “He'll be in the kitchen making pancakes or in his wood shop finishing a cradle for a great grandchild.”
• John Burns [09:35]: “A trout stream with Mom Carter. Or for me, just walking those Georgia fields and forests where he's from.”

Legacy and Reflections:

• Jason Carter's Perspective: Shares personal anecdotes and reflections on his grandfather's presidency, highlighting his integrity and dedication.
• Rick Hutto's Insights: Former Macon City Councilman and expert on the Carters discusses the family's legacy and their impact on both local and national levels.

Notable Interaction:

• Jason Carter [16:43]: “Well, when you look at his administration, there was never a hint of scandal. Nobody in the cabinet was indicted. He was just a good, good man and I'm glad that history has treated him much more kindly.”

Final Tributes: President Carter is set to be buried alongside his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, solidifying their enduring legacy in Georgia and the nation.

4. Additional Local News Highlights

Student Arrested at Apalachee High School: A student was arrested for bringing a gun to Apalachee High School in northeast Georgia, the same institution where a tragic shooting occurred in September. Authorities responded swiftly, ensuring the situation was handled without incident.

Housing Industry Update: An Atlanta-based property management firm, Cortland Management, has agreed to cease using pricing algorithms that allegedly harm renters. The U.S. Department of Justice added Cortland Management to a multi-state lawsuit over discriminatory practices in setting rental prices.

5. Sports Update: UGA Quarterback Carson Beck Enters Transfer Portal

In sports news, Carson Beck, the University of Georgia's quarterback, is expected to transfer after previously declaring for the NFL draft. Beck, who played five seasons with the Bulldogs and was considered a potential top NFL draft pick, faced challenges with turnovers and sustained an elbow injury during the SEC Championship game.

Key Points:

• Impact on Team: UGA is preparing for life without Beck, relying on backup quarterback Gunner Stockton, who performed admirably in the Sugar Bowl and is poised to be the starting QB next season.
• Beck's Career: Despite his challenges in the 2024 season, Beck remains a headline figure in the 2025 transfer class.

Conclusion

Today's episode of Georgia Today provided a comprehensive overview of significant events impacting Georgia, from severe weather preparations and legislative priorities to the heartfelt farewell to former President Jimmy Carter and impactful local news stories. Sports enthusiasts were updated on key movements within the UGA Bulldogs football team, ensuring listeners are well-informed on diverse topics affecting the state.

For more detailed coverage on these stories, visit gpb.org/news. Stay safe during the winter storm and stay tuned for more updates in tomorrow’s episode.

This summary is based on the transcript provided and captures all key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the January 9, 2025, episode of Georgia Today.