Good morning, Warner Robins.

Central Georgia food banks are preparing for a surge in clients after a new law cut federal SNAP funding by $186 billion and raised work requirements, changes that will affect many residents.

The Christian Social Ministry food bank in Warner Robins now expects up to 50 extra visits per week as food pantries and soup kitchens get ready to serve families who lose benefits (One Big Beautiful Bill Act).

A Perry man pleaded guilty to false imprisonment for assaulting and attempting to hold captive a pregnant woman in December 2024—he received a sentence of 10 years in prison followed by five years on probation.

The Houston County Sheriff’s Office launched a public service campaign on Monday, July 14 to raise awareness about domestic violence following several homicides, including a Warner Robins murder-suicide in June, + the campaign collaborates with local police and community agencies to help victims get support.

A 22-year-old Perry man pleaded guilty on July 7 to false imprisonment for a violent assault on his pregnant partner on Dec.

16, 2024, when he hit and strangled her during a car ride, and he was sentenced to 15 years in prison—with the first 10 years served in state prison.

Houston County law enforcement leaders are launching a new family violence prevention initiative that aims to reduce family violence homicides—officials detailed plans to speed up responses and offer better support for victims.

Middle Georgia public schools are gearing up for the new school year with teacher pre-planning sessions, open houses and community events planned across the region — some events include a PBIS Back-to-School Bash in Bibb County on August 1 and a school bash in Monroe County on July 26. First days of school vary from July 29 to August 6 as districts prepare to welcome students for the fall term.

At a meeting on July 8, the Houston County Board of Education announced a mobile app with almost 6,000 downloads, a Teacher Advisory Council led by Teacher of the Year Jade Thomas, and a summer feeding program that will continue through July 18.

The board also approved buying 13 new Blue Bird buses for just over $2 million and selling 26 older buses while scheduling teacher orientation on July 21—22, an opening session on July 23, and a school year start on July 30.

Today, Georgia law enforcement launches Operation Southern Slow Down — a weeklong crackdown on speeding and aggressive driving that will run through July 20.

Officers in Georgia and partner states will increase highway patrols to remind drivers to obey posted speed limits.

Today, Michael Hokanson from the Department of Health’s North Central Health District explained how to avoid heat-related illnesses by staying hydrated, taking breaks, and finding shade—he pointed out signs like confusion, heavy sweating, and muscle cramps that need quick attention. He urged workers and employers to follow these steps to protect everyone, especially children and seniors, when outdoors in the heat.