Incoming Winter Storm Threatens State

A major winter storm forecasted to hit North Georgia and the Atlanta metro area this weekend is prompting closures, power outage concerns, cancellations, and preparation efforts.

The Georgia Department of Transportation has activated its winter weather response and will pretreat interstates and state routes with brine, of which they have nearly 2 million gallons ready.

Georgia Power is warning residents that the storm could cause power outages lasting two to three days or longer.

Due to the approaching weather, multiple school districts have cancelled or rescheduled weekend events.

North Georgia public health facilities will be closed on Monday as a safety precaution.

  CEO Pleads Guilty to $380 Million Ponzi Scheme

Todd Burkhalter, the founder of an Alpharetta-based financial advisory firm, has pleaded guilty to running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded more than 2,000 investors out of $380 million.

It is likely the largest Ponzi scheme in state history.

According to federal authorities, Burkhalter deceived investors with promises of 10% returns every three months on investments collateralized by fraudulent real estate properties. He instead used new investor funds to pay old investors and fund a luxurious personal lifestyle.

Prosecutors are recommending a sentence of more than 17 years. Sentencing is scheduled for March 17.

Atlanta Beltline Bike Park Breaks Ground

The Atlanta Beltline broke ground on a new Bike Park at Shirley Clarke Franklin Park on Thursday.

The park will feature over 2 miles of mountain bike trails designed for riders of all skill levels, a pump track, a bicycle playground, and more.

Construction for the first phase, backed by an $8 million donation from the Chestnut Family Foundation, is expected to be completed this fall.

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➤ Savannah: Lucas Theatre for the Arts has been temporarily closed after bats were discovered in the theatre’s rafters. (More)

➤ Richmond County: A Georgia State Patrol trooper is being recognized for saving the life of an unresponsive driver who had crashed into a liquor store on Milledgeville Road. (See Details)

➤ Atlanta: Morris Brown College reinstated Dr. Kevin James as its president just one week after he was abruptly terminated. (More)

➤ Hogansville: Callaway High School has officially opened a new $17 million multipurpose indoor practice facility on Whitfield Road. (More)

➤ Spalding County: The county unanimously approved a $3.9 billion data center complex along Interstate 75, despite local concerns. (See Details)

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➤ The Atlanta Hawks have stopped trade discussions for Mavericks big man Anthony Davis following his most recent injury. The team had been connected to Davis seemingly all season as they look for an upgrade at center, but availability concerns tanked his chances of being dealt. (More)

➤ The Atlanta Falcons blocked the 49ers from conducting an interview with defensive secondary coach Justin Hood. While reports didn’t specify what position he’d have been interviewing for, many connected Hood to San Francisco as a potential defensive coordinator candidate. (More)

➤ Georgia Tech basketball takes on No. 18 Clemson today in ACC action. (How to Watch)

➤ Yesterday’s Results: NBA | NHL | NCAAM | NCAAW | Soccer | Tennis | Golf

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➤ This Sleeping Position Triggers Nerve Pain. Back sleeper or side sleeper? One common sleeping position stops nerves from repairing and triggers burning pain every night. Board-certified surgeon Dr. John Jairo reveals which position to avoid and the real solution to nerve pain. (Watch the free video)

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➤ The Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia in Augusta has welcomed Popcorn, a new facility dog who will visit and support young patients. (More)

➤ A North Georgia lottery player won a $4 million prize from a scratch-off ticket they purchased at a package store in Griffin. (More)

➤ An English teacher at McClure Middle School in Kennesaw saved a choking seventh-grader by quickly performing the Heimlich maneuver. (More)

How long do you let your car warm up?

1. Less than 5 minutes
2. 5-7 minutes
3. I’m supposed to let my car warm up?

Yesterday’s Results:

What is your favorite chicken wing flavor?

1. Buffalo: 20%
2. Lemon pepper: 17%
3. Honey BBQ: 17%
4. Don’t like them: 16%
5. Garlic parmesan: 15%
6. Other: 15%

How many state capitals has Georgia had?

Show me the answer