Crossover Day and Other Notable News
On Crossover Friday, March 6, the Georgia General Assembly is in full swing as lawmakers race to pass bills before they expire. This day is known as Crossover Day under the Gold Dome, where legislation must move from its originating chamber to the other house to be considered for final passage.
One of the most significant pieces of legislation passed this week was a bill that gives taxpayers a one-time rebate. Single filers will receive $250, joint filers $500, and heads of households $375. Another notable bill cleared the House that allows women to get birth control directly from pharmacies, marking a shift in healthcare accessibility.
Meanwhile, political developments continue to unfold. Senator Greg Dolezal faced bipartisan condemnation after an anti-Muslim campaign video surfaced, prompting Democrat Senator Nabilah Parkes to drop her bid for insurance commissioner to join the lieutenant governor race. Additionally, Democratic State Senator Elena Parent announced she will not seek re-election after serving in both chambers for 15 years.
In local news, the Norcross City Council approved a $5 million transfer for the construction of a new public safety building. The Sandy Springs Fire Corps is also seeking community members for non-firefighting roles, emphasizing the importance of volunteer involvement in emergency services.
National and International Updates
President Donald Trump has fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem following bipartisan criticism of her handling of the department. He plans to nominate Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin to succeed her. In the ongoing conflict in Iran, President Trump dismissed concerns about the war, claiming “people are loving what’s happening.” Meanwhile, gasoline prices have reached a high of $3.32 per gallon, the highest since September 2024, with Georgia seeing a 19% increase in a month.
The U.S. has asked Ukraine for help fighting Iranian drones, while Iran’s foreign minister stated that the country has not requested a ceasefire and is rejecting negotiations. Thousands of Americans remain stranded in the Middle East, and Israel ordered residents to evacuate southern Beirut ahead of strikes against Hezbollah targets.
Cultural and Entertainment Highlights
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, offers a premier destination for those celebrating the world’s biggest golf events. With culinary experiences, championship golf courses, and a newly transformed spa, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a stay after visiting Augusta National.
Immersive entertainment venue Cosm Atlanta is set to open at Centennial Yards on June 10 with Game 4 of the NBA Finals as its first public event. Tickets are now on sale for a variety of programming, including live sporting events and “Shared Reality” productions of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” “The Matrix,” and Cirque du Soleil’s “O.”
Community Events and Film Reviews
Move For Grady, Atlanta’s best ride/run/walk event, will take place on April 25. It supports Grady Health System’s mission to build a healthier Atlanta. Participants can choose from cycling routes or 5K or 10K run/walk courses and then celebrate with food, drinks, and music at Georgia State’s Center Parc Stadium.
In film news, Maggie Gyllenhaal’s “The Bride!” explores violence against women but is criticized for being convoluted and hollow. A review by Sammie Purcell highlights the film’s haphazard storytelling, comparing it to “Joker” but with a focus on female characters. Also featured is a review of the Pixar film “Hoppers,” which follows a young woman using a robotic beaver to save endangered animals.
Books and Local Stories
Brandon Deyette co-authored the memoir “Young is Blessed” with tattoo artist Young Bae. The book signing event will take place at A Capella Books on March 8. Their collaboration, formed through pandemic-era Zoom calls, became a therapeutic process for Young as she shared her story of resilience and success.
Lake Oconee offers an unforgettable experience during Masters week, with luxurious lodging and dining options. It’s the perfect spot to indulge during your stay.
Weekly Highlights and Upcoming Events
This week’s top stories include an anonymous $1 million gift to Avondale Estates, chaos in the Publix Atlanta Half Marathon women’s race, and the closure of Rising Son restaurant. A beloved salon dog, Archer, was recovered 20 miles from Dunwoody a month after his disappearance.
Camp Sunshine’s 2nd Annual Sunshine Spectacular, presented by RaceTrac, will take place on March 15. It features classic camp activities, games, and a “dining hall” menu.
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