Sen. John Albers introduced the Zero-Based Budgeting Act in Georgia, requiring a detailed review of government spending, similar to household budgeting, to ensure fiscal responsibility and accountability.

Union Gospel Mission opened a Welcome Center on East Lancaster to centralize intake, health care and housing referrals for people experiencing homelessness. The site aims to speed connections into services as local need rises.

A district survey and draft maps have parents worried about school consolidations and split neighborhoods. Trustees will review feedback before any final vote.

Grand Prairie ISD trustees postponed a planned vote to close three elementary campuses and will tour each school as the district confronts a $17M shortfall. Families now have time to weigh in.

Doral City Council plans to rename a road "Maria Corina Machado Path" to honor the Venezuelan opposition leader for her commitment to democracy and human rights.

A South Korea–founded church has quietly added sites across Chicago suburbs even as ex‑members and court records raise questions about its practices.

HonorAir Knoxville, a nonprofit that has taken veterans to D.C. since 2007, is ending with its final flight on April 8, 2026, due to mission completion and fewer sign-ups.

Tempe, Arizona invests in educational equality, focusing on improving literacy for boys and young men of color through tutoring and My Brother's Keeper Alliance designation.

The Arlington Public Library has added over 200 puzzles to its collection, donated by a couple in memory of their son, Harvey Gerdts. The puzzles, varying in complexity, are available for library card holders to check out.

A man was charged with distributing fentanyl-laced pills at a Georgia farmers market; the DEA arrested him after he sold thousands of pills. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Portland encourages student participation in Winter Walk+Roll to School Day for health and sustainability, offering incentives for braving the cold and promoting the Safe Routes to School initiative.

OCPS is considering consolidating seven schools due to low enrollment. Community meetings are addressing concerns, with parents and board members expressing heartbreak over potential closures.

"120 Hours Behind Bars," a new series on Discovery Channel, explores the harsh environment in American jails from January 19 at 9:00 PM, focusing on inmates and guards.