Editorial: Prioritizing Excellence and Equity in Education: Lessons from Finland

By Sen. Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta)

ATLANTA (December 27, 2023) — I recently had the privilege of visiting Finland, a country renowned for its commitment to educational excellence and equity. This eye-opening experience has reaffirmed my belief in the need to prioritize excellence and equity in our educational agenda.

Continue reading “Editorial: Prioritizing Excellence and Equity in Education: Lessons from Finland”

Statement Regarding Christmas Day Home Invasion Threat

ATLANTA (Dec. 27, 2023) — Please see the following statement from Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick (R–Marietta) regarding an emergency call in response to a hoax home invasion threat on Christmas Day:

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the law enforcement officers who responded swiftly to a false alarm at our home on Christmas Day. My husband and I were at home, enjoying a quiet holiday, when we received a call from a concerned neighbor informing us that three armed officers were outside our kitchen, responding to a reported hostage situation. To our shock, we had no prior knowledge of any emergency dispatch to our residence.

Upon going outside to meet the officers, it became apparent that this was a hoax—a fake 911 call that led to a significant deployment of resources. I am truly appreciative of the professionalism and efficiency displayed by the law enforcement members who responded to the situation. Their dedication to ensuring the safety of our community is commendable, and I am thankful for their rapid response.

Nevertheless, I am sorry that their time and resources were wasted on a false report. This incident has been the first of its kind for me, and I am relieved that it was indeed a hoax. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by our law enforcement agencies in distinguishing between genuine threats and false alarms. I remain committed to supporting our first responders and working towards ensuring the safety and security of our community. I wish everyone a safe and peaceful holiday season.”

# # # #


Sen. Kay Kirkpatrick serves as Chair of the Senate Committee on Children and Families. She represents Senate District 32 which includes portions of Cobb and Cherokee Counties. She may be reached at 404.656.3932 or at
kay.kirkpatrick@senate.ga.gov

Sen. Max Burns Applauds USDOT and GDOT Grants for Millen Railroad Developments

ATLANTA (Dec. 15, 2023) — Senator Max Burns (R-Sylvania) commends Governor Brian P. Kemp for securing a groundbreaking $12 million grant from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) to address railroad crossing blockages in Millen, Georgia. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) will provide an additional $3 million in funds for this effort.

Continue reading “Sen. Max Burns Applauds USDOT and GDOT Grants for Millen Railroad Developments”

Senator Sonya Halpern Honored as State Legislator of the Year by Georgia Association of Black County Officials

ATLANTA (Dec. 14, 2023) — Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus, Senator Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta), has been named the State Legislator of the Year by the Georgia Association of Black County Officials (GABCO). The award, presented on Sunday, December 10, recognizes Sen. Halpern’s outstanding commitment to policies that uplift the marginalized, empower the underserved, and create a more inclusive society for all.

Continue reading “Senator Sonya Halpern Honored as State Legislator of the Year by Georgia Association of Black County Officials”