🌱 Warnock Wins Senate Seat + Growing Concern For Homeless In Walton

Happy morning, Loganville-Grayson. I hope your coffee is hot and your breakfast fuels you up. We're here bright and early this morning to give you the top local stories:

• Raphael Warnock becomes Georgia's first black senator elected to a full term with a runoff win.
• Gov. Brian Kemp addresses the General Assembly to build on Georgia's progress.
• New discipline policies causing added risk amid Gwinnett County school violence issues.

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But first, today's weather:

With a high of 72, today will be partly sunny and warmer than usual. Keep your jacket close if you're planning outdoor fun in the evening. It'll get a little chilly with a low of about 58 and a light wind.

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Here are the top stories today in Loganville-Grayson:

1. Georgia Democratic incumbent Raphael Warnock is believed to have won handily in the Senate runoff election. Georgia has become one of few states to elect both Republican and Democratic candidates in major races as the demographics in the state have changed in recent years. With this win, Warnock has become the first black senator to be elected to a full term in the state of Georgia. (11alive)
2. Gov. Brian Kemp spoke to the General Assembly Tuesday to challenge its members to build on Georgia's successes. Beginning next month with the 2023 Legislation session, Kemp will push for increased benefits for the HOPE Scholarship program, and he plans to continue to crackdown on human trafficking and gangs recruiting children. (Georgia Sun)
3. Happy news for Gwinnett County employees comes just before Christmas! In an effort to maintain a reliable workforce, and to keep Gwinnett a desired place to live, the Board of Commissioners approved bonuses for their employees. Eligible full-time employees will receive a one-time payment of $1,500 and regular part time employees will receive a one-time payment of $750 from 2022 fiscal budget savings. (Fox 5 Atlanta)
4. The Walton County homeless population is increasing at unprecedented rate. Faith In Serving Humanity (FISH) is working on solutions, but they need more volunteers, donations, and assistance to be successful. Applications for assistance have doubled, and in 20 years, FISH's Director Cindy Little said she hasn't seen anything like it. (Monroe Local)
5. Student fights have increased 35 percent this year in Gwinnett County schools. Amid news reports of specific attacks, with serious consequences to the student offenders, Gwinnett schools are not seeing the fighting subside. One teacher, who remains anonymous, cites that new discipline policies could be to blame. New policies rolled out this year, focus on keeping offenders in school with intervention, but the policies could be putting staff and students at risk. (11Alive)

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Today in Loganville-Grayson:

• Want to shop local for unique gifts? Ladies Night at The Painted Tree is the place to be with hundreds of local vendors all under one roof. (6:00pm-9:00pm)
• If you're looking for a new challenge, join the Gwinnett Board Game Society at Ironshield Brewing Company. New friends, great food, games and brews! (6:00pm - 9:00pm)
• Don't miss Monroe's 69th annual Christmas parade. It's just a short drive to enjoy a warmer than usual Thursday night celebration. (6:30pm - 8:30pm)

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From my notebook:

• Come show off your ride and be a part of helping give kids a special Christmas. This Saturday, Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Rebellious Raiders Car Club and Pierce Transportation, LLC will host a local car show in Loganville to benefit Toys for Tots. There will be lots of fun prizes and raffles, and early entries will receive a free raffle ticket! (Monroe Local)
• Gwinnett police and fire are hosting a job fair this Saturday. The starting salary with Gwinnett Police is about $47,000 and with Gwinnett Fire is about $43,000. Some police candidates may receive conditional offers, and some fire applicants may have the opportunity to complete various steps. Both Gwinnett County Police Department and Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services are actively seeking new hires. (Newsbreak)
• Mistletoe in Monroe guides are ready to pick up! Don't forget that the guide is your ticket for the tour this Saturday, Dec. 10. Only a few tickets remain! The tour of homes is a vital fundraiser for the Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts and the Monroe Junior Woman's Club. While you enjoy the tour, or even if you just want some shopping time, the kiddos can participate in art projects and pizza. Make sure to sign them up by Dec. 9. (Monroe Local)
• Make sure to read up on safety tips as you choose and decorate your Christmas tree. One third of these fires are caused by electrical problems, but before you even place the first ornament, make sure you choose a healthy tree without loose needles. GwinnettSafety411.com offers additional tips for making sure your home is safe during the holidays. (Monroe Local)

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More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Holy Light: Candlelight Service of Carols (December 11)
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Thanks for joining me before you head out this morning. I'll catch up with you first thing tomorrow with another glimpse at what's happening in your community. A smile can change everything... make today count!