Tag: Georgia

November SNAP Benefits to Be Paid to Georgians in Time for Thanksgiving Holiday

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In accordance with the rulings of two federal judges on Friday, Oct. 31, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service will issue partial SNAP benefits for the month of November. The 35-day government shutdown was expected to force a delay SNAP benefit payments and impose politically induced hardships on individuals and families as they approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

The suspension which was to go into effect on November 1, will not be enforced as previously announced in an Oct. 28 online directive from the USDA, which stated: “Bottom line, the well has run dry … At this time, there will be no benefits issued on November 1. We are approaching an inflection point for Senate Democrats.”

The Trump administration maintained that it would not tap into its nearly $5 billion contingency fund to provide benefits to families receiving SNAP, but the court’s ruling to orders the administration to tap into funds to continue funding the program through November. The administration previously said it had no plans to dive into the billions of dollars in contingency funds before the rulings.

The rulings gave the Trump administration until Monday afternoon to decide whether to partially or fully fund SNAP benefits for November. A filing from Monday says that USDA will “fully comply” with the judges’ rulings and create a table “to calculate the benefits available for each eligible household in that State.”

The USDA was essentially given two options: tap into the Section 32 Child Nutrition Program to fully fund SNAP benefits for November, or drain the $4.65 billion in contingency funds to partially fund SNAP for the month. The administration went with the latter.

Nearly 1.6 million Georgians rely on SNAP food benefits and the program supports about 42 million low income people throughout the country each month by assisting them with payments for food. That assistance has already seen negative impacts by rising food costs. Adding to the negative impact of delayed payments and rising food costs, changes which have taken effect recently under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill reduces and in some cases eliminates payments altogether.

The new rules decrease the number of Americans who qualify for SNAP by expanding the work exemption from 59 to 65 years old, and the childcare exemption now only applies to parents or guardians of children under 14 when it was previously 18.

People experiencing homelessness and veterans are no longer exempt form the work requirement.

“Many people in America are a single missed paycheck away from needing support from their local food banks,” Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, said when the shutdown started on Oct. 1. “A prolonged shutdown will deepen the strain, and more families will seek help at a time when food banks are already stretched due to sustained high need.”

The government shutdown now entering its fourth week will cause November payments to be delayed. That delay will increase hardships on individuals and families as they approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents can only receive SNAP benefits for 3 months every 3 years unless they meet work criteria. , but pregnant individuals and those unable to work due to a physical or mental condition remain exempt.

It’s important to check your state’s payment schedule to see when your SNAP benefits will arrive this month. If you’re an ABAWD, be aware of the new eligibility rules that could impact how long you can receive assistance.

Check your state’s expected SNAP distribution dates for more details.

Gubernatorial candidate and former Atlanta Mayor issued the following statement:

Trump Administration, State Leaders Must Take Action to Stop SNAP Cuts for 1.3M Georgians

23 AGs Sue Trump Administration to Make SNAP Funds Available; Georgia Does Not Take Action

Today, 23 attorneys general from around the country filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration to compel the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use its $5.5 billion contingency fund to pay for SNAP benefits that are due to run out on Friday. The Trump administration previously used the contingency fund for this purpose during the 2018-2019 shutdown, but is currently refusing to do so.

Keisha Lance Bottoms, candidate for governor and former Mayor of Atlanta, issued the following statement in response to states’ action on SNAP:

“There is no reason 1.3 million Georgians, including children and seniors, should go without food, but Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington would rather let them go hungry than do what is right.

“I applaud the 23 attorneys general who took action today in support of providing these critical SNAP funds to states, and I am disappointed that Georgia did not join this lawsuit. Georgia’s Republican leaders should join Democrats who have called for immediate action to tap into our budget surplus to feed Georgians in need.

“One out of every eight Georgians depend on SNAP benefits. It’s time for the Trump administration and state leaders to act to ensure SNAP benefits do not run out for Georgia families on Friday.”

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Roz Edward

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November 4, 2025
This November’s ‘Beaver Moon’ will be the biggest seen in several years
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The second supermoon of the year will appear in the skies this week. The Beaver Moon, which is always the name of November’s full moon, will be the second of three supermoons in 2025.

The Beaver Moon will reach peak illumination around 8:19 a.m. ET on Wednesday, Nov. 5. Even though its peak is Wednesday morning, it will appear full on both Tuesday and Wednesday evening.
What You Need To Know

November’s full moon is known as the Beaver Moon

This is the second and biggest of the three supermoons that will occur this year

The next supermoon will appear on Dec. 4, 2025
The Beaver Moon is named for the time of the year when beavers are preparing to take shelter in their dams for the winter months. An earlier sunset will allow many on the east coast to see the full moon for a longer period of time.

What’s a supermoon?

A supermoon is when the moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth. The moon will appear brighter and larger than normal. This year’s Beaver Moon will be the biggest supermoon since 2019. It’s the second of three supermoons that round out 2025.

Alternative names

According to the farmer’s almanac, names of moons corresponded with entire lunar months and were derived from Native American, Colonial American and European sources.

The month is a transitional month as we move away from summer toward fall, and the alternative names reflect this.
- Digging (or Scratching) Moon (Tlingit)
- Deer Rutting Moon (Dakota and Lakota)
- Whitefish Moon (Algonquin)
Check your local forecast here to see how clouds may affect your viewing.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Spectrum News Weather Staff

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November 4, 2025
This November’s ‘Beaver Moon’ will be the biggest seen in several years
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The second supermoon of the year will appear in the skies this week. The Beaver Moon, which is always the name of November’s full moon, will be the second of three supermoons in 2025.

The Beaver Moon will reach peak illumination around 8:19 a.m. ET on Wednesday, Nov. 5. Even though its peak is Wednesday morning, it will appear full on both Tuesday and Wednesday evening.
What You Need To Know

November’s full moon is known as the Beaver Moon

This is the second and biggest of the three supermoons that will occur this year

The next supermoon will appear on Dec. 4, 2025
The Beaver Moon is named for the time of the year when beavers are preparing to take shelter in their dams for the winter months. An earlier sunset will allow many on the east coast to see the full moon for a longer period of time.

What’s a supermoon?

A supermoon is when the moon’s orbit is at its closest to Earth. The moon will appear brighter and larger than normal. This year’s Beaver Moon will be the biggest supermoon since 2019. It’s the second of three supermoons that round out 2025.

Alternative names

According to the farmer’s almanac, names of moons corresponded with entire lunar months and were derived from Native American, Colonial American and European sources.

The month is a transitional month as we move away from summer toward fall, and the alternative names reflect this.
- Digging (or Scratching) Moon (Tlingit)
- Deer Rutting Moon (Dakota and Lakota)
- Whitefish Moon (Algonquin)
Check your local forecast here to see how clouds may affect your viewing.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Spectrum News Weather Staff

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November 4, 2025
How to reuse your pumpkins after Halloween
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Halloween was a few days ago, but don’t throw out those pumpkins. There are lots ways to reuse your pumpkins or jack-o’-lanterns now that the trick-or-treating is done.
What You Need To Know

There are several ways to recycle your pumpkins

Leftover pumpkins can make tasty dishes

Pumpkin scraps are also an excellent fertilizer for your garden.
Turn pumpkins into food

If you didn’t carve the pumpkins yet, consider using it for food. You can scoop out the guts of the pumpkin and turn it into a puree.

To make a puree, you need to cut up the pumpkin and roast the halves. After they’ve roasted, scoop out the flesh and blend it to turn into a puree.

The puree could then be used to make pies, soups and sauces.

(Pexels)

You can also the roast the pumpkin seeds too after taking out the guts and rinsing them. One cup of pumpkin seeds is equivalent to approximately 12 grams of protein.

Pumpkin for animals

Leftover pumpkins can also become bird feeders.

You just have to cut off the top third of the pumpkin, empty the cavity, fill it with bird seeds and hang it in the yard for the birds.

Check with your local zoo. Some will take donated pumpkin scraps and use them as feed for animals. Polar bears enjoy them as a snack.

Composting pumpkins

Pumpkins are also good for composting. You can use the pumpkin scraps to help fertilize your garden.

You can even make it a game for kids to smash leftover pumpkins and use it as compost.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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November 2, 2025
How to reuse your pumpkins after Halloween
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Halloween was a few days ago, but don’t throw out those pumpkins. There are lots ways to reuse your pumpkins or jack-o’-lanterns now that the trick-or-treating is done.
What You Need To Know

There are several ways to recycle your pumpkins

Leftover pumpkins can make tasty dishes

Pumpkin scraps are also an excellent fertilizer for your garden.
Turn pumpkins into food

If you didn’t carve the pumpkins yet, consider using it for food. You can scoop out the guts of the pumpkin and turn it into a puree.

To make a puree, you need to cut up the pumpkin and roast the halves. After they’ve roasted, scoop out the flesh and blend it to turn into a puree.

The puree could then be used to make pies, soups and sauces.

(Pexels)

You can also the roast the pumpkin seeds too after taking out the guts and rinsing them. One cup of pumpkin seeds is equivalent to approximately 12 grams of protein.

Pumpkin for animals

Leftover pumpkins can also become bird feeders.

You just have to cut off the top third of the pumpkin, empty the cavity, fill it with bird seeds and hang it in the yard for the birds.

Check with your local zoo. Some will take donated pumpkin scraps and use them as feed for animals. Polar bears enjoy them as a snack.

Composting pumpkins

Pumpkins are also good for composting. You can use the pumpkin scraps to help fertilize your garden.

You can even make it a game for kids to smash leftover pumpkins and use it as compost.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Spectrum News Staff, Meteorologist Keith Bryant

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November 2, 2025
SNAP Benefits Cut off During Shutdown, Driving Long Lines at Food Pantries

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — People across the country formed long lines for free meals and groceries at food pantries and drive-through giveaways Saturday, after monthly benefits through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, were suddenly cut off because of the ongoing government shutdown.

In the New York borough of the Bronx, about 200 more people than usual showed up at the World of Life Christian Fellowship International pantry, many bundled in winter hats and coats and pushing collapsible shopping carts as they waited in a line that spanned multiple city blocks. Some arrived as early as 4 a.m. to choose from pallets of fruits, vegetables, bread, milk, juice, dry goods and prepared sandwiches.

Mary Martin, who volunteers at the pantry, also relies on it regularly for food to supplement her SNAP payments. She said she usually splits her roughly $200 a month in SNAP benefits between herself and her two adult sons, one of whom has six children and is especially dependent on the assistance.

“If I didn’t have the pantry to come to, I don’t know how we would make it,” Martin said.

“I’m not gonna see my grandkids suffer.”

The Department of Agriculture planned to withhold payments to the food program starting Saturday until two federal judges ordered the administration to make them. However it was unclear as to when the debit cards that beneficiaries use could be reloaded after the ruling, sparking fear and confusion among many recipients.

In an apparent response to President Donald Trump, who said he would provide the money but wanted more legal direction from the court, U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell in Rhode Island ordered the government to report back by Monday on how it would fund SNAP accounts.

McConnell, who was nominated by President Barack Obama, said the Trump administration must either make a full payment by that day or, if it decides to tap $3 billion in a contingency fund, figure out how to do that by Wednesday.

The delay in SNAP payments, a major piece of the nation’s social safety net that serves about 42 million people, has highlighted the financial vulnerabilities that many face. At the Bronx food pantry, the Rev. John Udo-Okon said “people from all walks of life” are seeking help now.

“The pantry is no longer for the poor, for the elderly, for the needy. The pantry now is for the whole community, everybody,” Udo-Okon said. “You see people will drive in their car and come and park and wait to see if they can get food.”

In Austell, Georgia, people in hundreds of cars in drive-through lanes picked up nonperishable and perishable bags of food. Must Ministries said it handed out food to about 1,000 people, more than a typical bimonthly food delivery.

Families in line said they worried about not getting SNAP benefits in time for Thanksgiving.

At a drive-through food giveaway at the Calvary Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky, SNAP recipient James Jackson, 74, said he is frustrated that people are being hurt by decisions made in Washington and lawmakers should try harder to understand challenges brought by poverty and food insecurity.

“If you’ve never been poor, you don’t know what it is to be poor,” Jackson said. “I hope that it turns around. I hope that people get their SNAP benefits, and I hope we just come together where we can love each other and feed each other and help each other.”

While there is typically a long line for Calvary Baptist Church’s drive-through events, the Rev. Samuel L. Whitlow said, the walk-in food pantry has seen increased demand recently with roughly 60 additional people showing up this week.

And in Norwich, Connecticut, the St. Vincent De Paul soup kitchen and food pantry had 10 extra volunteers working Saturday to help a wave of expected newcomers, making sure they felt comfortable and understood the services available. Besides groceries and hot meals, the site was providing pet food, toiletries and blood pressure checks.

“They’re embarrassed. They have shame. So you have to deal with that as well,” director Jill Corbin said. “But we do our best to just try to welcome people.”

Haigh reported from Norwich, Connecticut. Associated Press photographer Mike Stewart in Austell, Georgia, contributed.

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Photos You Should See – Oct. 2025

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Associated Press

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November 1, 2025
As we “fall back” this weekend, the time change debate continues

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It’s that time of the year again, when we “fall back” one hour, ending daylight saving time and returning to standard time and thus igniting the semi-annual debate.

Do we proceed with the current standards and switch the clocks biannually in 48 of the 50 states? Or do we establish one standard and end this shifting of time?

19 states say yes, end the shifting and establish permanent daylight saving time. Federal law says no, and thus the debate continues.

Why we change the clocks

The United States began the concept of daylight saving time in 1918, during World War I, to save fuel. The thought was that by advancing one hour ahead, coal-fired energy would assist the war effort rather than that hour at home.

Standard time returned following the war and continued until World War II. After World War II, some states and even cities kept daylight saving time, creating various time zones within regions. Frustrated with no uniform time, the public pushed Congress to pass the Uniform Time Act in 1966.

This established the time frame for daylight saving time would begin the last Sunday in April and end the last Sunday in October.

In 1987, it extended to include the first Sunday in April and end on the last Sunday in October.

Part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the modern daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

This current time shift began in 2007, but this practice, according to millions of Americans, is outdated.

Not every state changes the clocks

The law passed by Congress in 1966 allows states to opt out of observing daylight saving and stay in standard time year-round but not the other way around. Two states, Arizona and Hawaii, along with multiple U.S. territories have done so and thus stay in standard time the full year.

Hawaii doesn’t take part because of its location. With not much variation throughout the year between sunrise and sunset, it made little sense to switch the clocks.

Only the Navajo Nation in Arizona observes daylight saving time. The rest of the state exempted itself in 1968.

They cited the heat as their reason for opting out, adding that if they switched the clocks ahead one hour, the sun would not set until 9 p.m. in the summer, limiting nighttime activities.

President Trump’s feelings on time change

Even President Trump sees it from both sides of the debate.

“The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our nation,” he wrote on his social media back on Dec. 13, 2024.

However, his Truth Social post in April boasted something completely different.

A hearing convened in April by the Senate Commerce Committee was debating this issue. Trump’s endorsement might help settle the debate for lawmakers.

Sunshine Protection Act and its opponents

On March 15, 2022, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously in favor of the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent, meaning Americans would no longer have to change their clocks twice a year to account for the time change.

While the Senate passed the bill, three and a half years later it remains stalled in the House and has not been signed into law by President Trump.

Not everyone agrees with eliminating standard time.

Earlier this week, Republican Sen. Tom Cotton was on hand to thwart a bipartisan effort on the chamber floor to pass a bill establishing permanent daylight saving time.

“If permanent Daylight Savings Time becomes the law of the land, it will again make winter a dark and dismal time for millions of Americans,” said Cotton in his objection to a request by Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) to advance the bill by unanimous consent.

Adding, “For many Arkansans, permanent daylight savings time would mean the sun wouldn’t rise until after 8:00 or even 8:30 a.m. during the dead of winter,” Emphasizing, “The darkness of permanent savings time would be especially harmful for school children and working Americans.”

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) called for the Senate to pass the bill this week, citing states’ rights as a major reason for his support for the so-called “Sunshine Protection Act.”

“It allows the people of each state to choose what best fits their needs and the needs of their families,” said Scott. “The American people are sick and tired of changing their clocks twice a year. It’s confusing, unnecessary and completely outdated.”

Cotton strengthened his argument by bringing up the “abject failure” of the last time Congress enacted permanent daylight saving time in 1974, pledging to always oppose legislation that would do just that.

Vote in Live Poll: Cancel daylight saving time or stay on it permanently?

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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October 31, 2025
As we “fall back” this weekend, the time change debate continues

[ad_1]

It’s that time of the year again, when we “fall back” one hour, ending daylight saving time and returning to standard time and thus igniting the semi-annual debate.

Do we proceed with the current standards and switch the clocks biannually in 48 of the 50 states? Or do we establish one standard and end this shifting of time?

19 states say yes, end the shifting and establish permanent daylight saving time. Federal law says no, and thus the debate continues.

Why we change the clocks

The United States began the concept of daylight saving time in 1918, during World War I, to save fuel. The thought was that by advancing one hour ahead, coal-fired energy would assist the war effort rather than that hour at home.

Standard time returned following the war and continued until World War II. After World War II, some states and even cities kept daylight saving time, creating various time zones within regions. Frustrated with no uniform time, the public pushed Congress to pass the Uniform Time Act in 1966.

This established the time frame for daylight saving time would begin the last Sunday in April and end the last Sunday in October.

In 1987, it extended to include the first Sunday in April and end on the last Sunday in October.

Part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the modern daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

This current time shift began in 2007, but this practice, according to millions of Americans, is outdated.

Not every state changes the clocks

The law passed by Congress in 1966 allows states to opt out of observing daylight saving and stay in standard time year-round but not the other way around. Two states, Arizona and Hawaii, along with multiple U.S. territories have done so and thus stay in standard time the full year.

Hawaii doesn’t take part because of its location. With not much variation throughout the year between sunrise and sunset, it made little sense to switch the clocks.

Only the Navajo Nation in Arizona observes daylight saving time. The rest of the state exempted itself in 1968.

They cited the heat as their reason for opting out, adding that if they switched the clocks ahead one hour, the sun would not set until 9 p.m. in the summer, limiting nighttime activities.

President Trump’s feelings on time change

Even President Trump sees it from both sides of the debate.

“The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our nation,” he wrote on his social media back on Dec. 13, 2024.

However, his Truth Social post in April boasted something completely different.

A hearing convened in April by the Senate Commerce Committee was debating this issue. Trump’s endorsement might help settle the debate for lawmakers.

Sunshine Protection Act and its opponents

On March 15, 2022, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously in favor of the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent, meaning Americans would no longer have to change their clocks twice a year to account for the time change.

While the Senate passed the bill, three and a half years later it remains stalled in the House and has not been signed into law by President Trump.

Not everyone agrees with eliminating standard time.

Earlier this week, Republican Sen. Tom Cotton was on hand to thwart a bipartisan effort on the chamber floor to pass a bill establishing permanent daylight saving time.

“If permanent Daylight Savings Time becomes the law of the land, it will again make winter a dark and dismal time for millions of Americans,” said Cotton in his objection to a request by Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) to advance the bill by unanimous consent.

Adding, “For many Arkansans, permanent daylight savings time would mean the sun wouldn’t rise until after 8:00 or even 8:30 a.m. during the dead of winter,” Emphasizing, “The darkness of permanent savings time would be especially harmful for school children and working Americans.”

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) called for the Senate to pass the bill this week, citing states’ rights as a major reason for his support for the so-called “Sunshine Protection Act.”

“It allows the people of each state to choose what best fits their needs and the needs of their families,” said Scott. “The American people are sick and tired of changing their clocks twice a year. It’s confusing, unnecessary and completely outdated.”

Cotton strengthened his argument by bringing up the “abject failure” of the last time Congress enacted permanent daylight saving time in 1974, pledging to always oppose legislation that would do just that.

Vote in Live Poll: Cancel daylight saving time or stay on it permanently?

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

Source link

October 31, 2025
As we “fall back” this weekend, the time change debate continues

[ad_1]

It’s that time of the year again, when we “fall back” one hour, ending daylight saving time and returning to standard time and thus igniting the semi-annual debate.

Do we proceed with the current standards and switch the clocks biannually in 48 of the 50 states? Or do we establish one standard and end this shifting of time?

19 states say yes, end the shifting and establish permanent daylight saving time. Federal law says no, and thus the debate continues.

Why we change the clocks

The United States began the concept of daylight saving time in 1918, during World War I, to save fuel. The thought was that by advancing one hour ahead, coal-fired energy would assist the war effort rather than that hour at home.

Standard time returned following the war and continued until World War II. After World War II, some states and even cities kept daylight saving time, creating various time zones within regions. Frustrated with no uniform time, the public pushed Congress to pass the Uniform Time Act in 1966.

This established the time frame for daylight saving time would begin the last Sunday in April and end the last Sunday in October.

In 1987, it extended to include the first Sunday in April and end on the last Sunday in October.

Part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the modern daylight saving time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

This current time shift began in 2007, but this practice, according to millions of Americans, is outdated.

Not every state changes the clocks

The law passed by Congress in 1966 allows states to opt out of observing daylight saving and stay in standard time year-round but not the other way around. Two states, Arizona and Hawaii, along with multiple U.S. territories have done so and thus stay in standard time the full year.

Hawaii doesn’t take part because of its location. With not much variation throughout the year between sunrise and sunset, it made little sense to switch the clocks.

Only the Navajo Nation in Arizona observes daylight saving time. The rest of the state exempted itself in 1968.

They cited the heat as their reason for opting out, adding that if they switched the clocks ahead one hour, the sun would not set until 9 p.m. in the summer, limiting nighttime activities.

President Trump’s feelings on time change

Even President Trump sees it from both sides of the debate.

“The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our nation,” he wrote on his social media back on Dec. 13, 2024.

However, his Truth Social post in April boasted something completely different.

A hearing convened in April by the Senate Commerce Committee was debating this issue. Trump’s endorsement might help settle the debate for lawmakers.

Sunshine Protection Act and its opponents

On March 15, 2022, the U.S. Senate voted unanimously in favor of the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent, meaning Americans would no longer have to change their clocks twice a year to account for the time change.

While the Senate passed the bill, three and a half years later it remains stalled in the House and has not been signed into law by President Trump.

Not everyone agrees with eliminating standard time.

Earlier this week, Republican Sen. Tom Cotton was on hand to thwart a bipartisan effort on the chamber floor to pass a bill establishing permanent daylight saving time.

“If permanent Daylight Savings Time becomes the law of the land, it will again make winter a dark and dismal time for millions of Americans,” said Cotton in his objection to a request by Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) to advance the bill by unanimous consent.

Adding, “For many Arkansans, permanent daylight savings time would mean the sun wouldn’t rise until after 8:00 or even 8:30 a.m. during the dead of winter,” Emphasizing, “The darkness of permanent savings time would be especially harmful for school children and working Americans.”

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) called for the Senate to pass the bill this week, citing states’ rights as a major reason for his support for the so-called “Sunshine Protection Act.”

“It allows the people of each state to choose what best fits their needs and the needs of their families,” said Scott. “The American people are sick and tired of changing their clocks twice a year. It’s confusing, unnecessary and completely outdated.”

Cotton strengthened his argument by bringing up the “abject failure” of the last time Congress enacted permanent daylight saving time in 1974, pledging to always oppose legislation that would do just that.

Vote in Live Poll: Cancel daylight saving time or stay on it permanently?

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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October 31, 2025
Frost and freeze concerns tonight in the Southeast
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Colder air is surging south and the coldest night so far this season is expected overnight.
What You Need To Know

The coldest air of the season so far arrives Friday night in the Southeast

Frost Advisories and Freeze Watches are in place for most of the Southeast

Cover and protect sensitive plants and agriculture
With cold air expected, Frost Advisories and Freeze Watches are in place for most of the Southeast.

The National Weather Service issues Frost Advisories and Freeze Warnings of impending cold air, but it’s to warn gardeners and those in agriculture that cold temperatures could damage sensitive plants and to take the proper precautions.

What’s the difference between a frost and a freeze?

A frost occurs when temperatures drop between 32 to 37 degrees for an extended period. Usually, this will cause damage to more sensitive plants. However, if proper precautions are taken, such as covering up plants, the prospects of survival are good.

A freeze happens when temperatures fall below 32 degrees for more than four hours. This event usually marks the end of the growing season, but some hardy plants can still survive.

How to prep your garden for frost and freeze

Here are some steps to prevent frost damage before a cold blast.
- With delicate plants and flowers, try to grow them in a warm, sunny spot and closer to the foundation of a home. A south-facing wall may help provide even just more warmth during the cooler seasons.
- Mulching is another great way not only to protect plants but also to add aesthetics to your garden. Adding a layer or two can provide the extra warmth needed to withstand a frost or even a freeze.
- In a pinch, packing the surrounding soil and mulch with straw or even covering plants with old t-shirts, towels or blankets will help.
Download the Spectrum News App for the latest forecast updates.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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October 30, 2025
Defeating the Far-Right “Blob Man”

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The story of Eric Rudolph, the Atlanta Olympics bomber, offers lessons about the persistence of violent extremism, and how to combat it.

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John Archibald

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October 30, 2025
When will it snow? It depends where you live
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The days are getting shorter, and temperatures are falling. Now that we’re heading toward winter, many parts of the country are going to begin to see snow in the forecast for the first time in months.

Even though winter doesn’t begin until December, the first snow can arrive much earlier depending on where you live.
What You Need To Know

The Mountain West usually gets snow before anywhere else

Interior New England and the Great Lakes also see snowfall earlier than most areas

If it snows in the Southeast, it normally comes after New Year’s
The primary factors that influence your local snowfall climatology are elevation and latitude. High elevations, like the Rockies, are much more favorable environments for wintry weather than anywhere else in the continental U.S. Some parts of the Rockies could receive snow in all 12 months of the year.

Of course, that’s not the case for everyone else. Aside from elevation, how far north do you live? Do you live off the eastern shores of the Great Lakes and get lake-effect snow? Do you see a milder maritime air mass from the Pacific, or a continental polar air mass from Canada?

The map below gives a good idea of when you can expect the first measurable (>0.1″) snow where you live based on the 1981-2020 U.S. climate normals.

The map shows the ‘median,’ or average date of the first snowfall. This is when you could expect the first snow to arrive during a ‘normal’ year. Of course, every year is different, but this should give you a good idea of when to get the winter clothes ready. For an even better idea, you can check your local forecast.

Snow in the Northeast usually arrives before winter does on the calendar, especially in the mountains. Interior New England the Adirondacks, usually sees the first snowflakes falling around early November, with the rest of New England seeing snow before Thanksgiving.

Coastal areas might lag a little behind the rest of the Northeast since the temperatures run a bit warmer, but it only takes one Nor’easter to deliver the first snow for everybody.

Great Lakes

Aside from the Rockies and some other high elevations, the Great Lakes are among the earlier areas to see snow, especially near Lake Superior. When you combine arctic air and moisture over the warm Great Lakes early in the season, the lake-effect machine can pump some big snow totals onto the southern and eastern shores of the Great Lakes.

Parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, Upstate New York and northwest Pennsylvania are the lucky recipients of lake-effect snow that can arrive as early as October or November.

Midwest

The Upper Midwest and Northern Plains see strong cold fronts move in from Canada during the late fall and winter with bitter cold Arctic air that can dump feet of snow, but that’s not usually until later in the season. The first snow? The Dakotas and Minnesota usually get some snowfall in early November.

Further south, in states like Iowa, Illinois, Ohio and Missouri, it can be a bit later, around or after Thanksgiving as we get into December.

Northwest/Rockies

The Rocky Mountains, Cascades and other high elevations across the Mountain West are the snowiest places in the U.S., some of which could see snow year-round. This is why some of the best ski resorts in the world are in states like Colorado, Utah and Montana. Snow usually starts falling by October, with the foothills and lower elevations seeing snow by November.

The coastal parts of Washington and Oregon in the Pacific Northwest don’t see much snow until later, usually by December. The Pacific Ocean keeps areas west of the mountains much warmer, and much wetter with rain lasting into winter.

Southwest

If you’re expecting snow in the Southwest, elevation is an important factor. There are parts of Southern California, northern Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada where the high elevations and mountains see plenty of snowfall, some as early as late November or December. But a lot of the Southwest doesn’t see any, especially in California outside of the mountains.

In Texas, the Panhandle could get some wild weather by late November or December, but further south into central Texas and the Gulf Coast, the snow chances are few and far between.

Southeast

Parts of the Southeast, especially in the Appalachians, could get snow in late November or December. States like Kentucky, North Carolina, Arkansas, Virginia and North Carolina usually get a few good snows per winter, maybe even before changing your calendar.

If you live anywhere else in the Southeast, especially Florida and along the Gulf Coast, the first time you see snow depends on when you buy a plane ticket! Big snows are much rarer once you get south of I-10. Other parts of the Deep South are lucky to see one or two snows per year, but it usually arrives in January or February.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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October 30, 2025
Halloween Forecast: Is it a trick or a treat?
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A chill will be in the air across much of the country for this year’s Halloween trick-or-treaters. The good news is we will see mostly dry conditions in time, but a few spots could still see rain lingering into the night.
What You Need To Know

Below-average temperatures are expected from the Plains to the East Coast

Most of the country should be dry around sunset

Rain and wind will linger in the Northeast
Northeast

For much of Halloween, it will be a wet and windy day across the Northeast. Thankfully, much of the rain will clear in time for trick-or-treaters by sunset with only a few showers across Upstate New York and the northern parts of New England.

For those heading out, be sure to bring an extra layer and hold on to those witches’ hats! A gusty northwest wind will bring temperatures down into the 40s and 50s along the coast with even colder temperatures farther inland (30s) after sunset. Winds could even reach 30-40 mph at times closer to the coast.

Southeast

The forecast is a lot less frightening for the Southeast, which will see clear skies and no chance of rain. However, it will be cool with temperatures slipping into the 50s in areas as far south as Central Florida.

Central U.S.

Most of the Central U.S. will also see dry and cool weather Halloween evening. The only exception will be parts of the Northern Plains, where some scattered showers may continue.

Temperatures will range from the 30s and 40s in the Northern Plains to the 50s and 60s across Texas and the Mid-South.

West

Dry weather is likely for almost the entire West with high pressure in control. The only region that may be wet will be the coastal parts of Washington, where another atmospheric river is expected to move onshore.

It will also be cool in the Pacific Northwest with temperatures falling into the 40s and 50s. Milder weather is expected in the Southwest.

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
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Meteorologist Ian Cassette

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October 29, 2025
Pastor Jamal Bryant Redirects Church Donations To Feed Families As Millions Prepare To Lose EBT Benefits (VIDEO)

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As the government shutdown drags on, millions of Americans are bracing for potential disruptions to critical programs — including SNAP benefits. Starting November 1st, those who rely on the program could see their assistance paused, leaving families scrambling to put food on the table. Amid the uncertainty, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church Pastor, Jamal Bryant, is urging his community to step up in a different way. All this unfolds as DoorDash pledges meals and states take the Trump administration to court.

RELATED: Trump Administration Rejects Using Emergency Funds For EBT As Millions On Verge Of Losing SNAP Benefits

Pastor Bryant Shifts $1M Fundraiser To Feed Families

According to reports, this past Sunday was supposed to be a big fundraising day for the Georgia church. As they aimed to raise $1 million, Pastor Bryant made the decision to pause the initiative until the shutdown ends. In a sentimental message, the Georgia pastor shared:

“The congregation is supposed to be sensitive to the needs of the community, knowing that people are literally just trying to keep their heads above water. We’re opening up our arms and opening up our hearts at the same time.”

Additionally, the church normally hands out groceries every other Saturday to around 1,500 people. But, this weekend they’re planning to step it up to serve 2,000. His decision comes as more than 40 million Americans receiving SNAP benefits may lose them in just a few days. As previously reported, the USDA has confirmed that no emergency assistance will be provided for relief. For communities already struggling, the church’s move shows how local support can fill gaps when the system falls short.

24 States Sue Trump Admin Over SNAP Suspension

A massive coalition of 24 states plus D.C. is taking the Trump administration to court over the suspension of SNAP benefits. Big-name states like California, New York, and Pennsylvania are asking a federal judge in Massachusetts to step in. They’re also asking the judge to make the Department of Agriculture continue SNAP benefits for November, even if it means using contingency funds. With over 25 million people in these states alone relying on SNAP, officials are calling the suspension not just unfair, but unlawful.

In their lawsuit, the states warn that cutting off food stamps could have dire consequences and negative health impacts on children. “Shutting off SNAP benefits will cause deterioration of public health and well-being,” the filing reads. The states involved in the suit stretch coast to coast, including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, and Illinois. Additionally, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, and more are included in the pact — making it one of the biggest legal challenges to the administration’s food aid cuts yet.

DoorDash Offers 1 Million Free Meals Amid EBT Freeze

The government shutdown threatens SNAP benefits for millions of families, including 21 million kids. Furthermore, it leaves countless at risk of going hungry while food banks struggle to keep up. DoorDash is stepping in with an Emergency Food Response, offering free delivery for its Project DASH partners. The company is also waiving fees on roughly 300,000 SNAP orders, adding to the 135 million meals it has already helped deliver. “No one should go hungry in America—period,” said Max Rettig, DoorDash VP. Meanwhile, Eric Mitchell of the Alliance to End Hunger added that while this helps temporarily, full SNAP benefits must be restored immediately to protect millions of people in need.

RELATED: Hol’ Up! Food Stamp Benefits Reportedly At Risk Of Being Cut Amid Government Shutdown (VIDEO)

What Do You Think Roomies?

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Desjah

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October 29, 2025
1.4 Million Georgians Lose Out on SNAP Benefits Ahead of Holiday

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More than 1 million Georgians who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not receive critical food benefits in November due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Georgians who usually receive payments between Nov. 5 and Nov. 23 should not expect to see payment until December.

“Bottom line, the well has run dry,” the U.S. Department of Agricluture posted on its webiste. “At this time, there will be no benefits issued on November 1. We are approaching an inflection point for Senate Democrats.”

The Trump administration said it would not tap into its nearly $5 billion contingency fund to provide benefits to families receiving SNAP.

SNAP supports about 42 million low income people throughout the country each month by assisting them with payments for food. That assistance has already seen negative impacts by rising food costs. Adding to the negative impact of delayed payments and rising food costs, changes which have taken effect recently under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill reduces and in some cases eliminates payments altogether.

The new rules decrease the number of Americans who qualify for SNAP by expanding the work exemption from 59 to 65 years old, and the childcare exemption now only applies to parents or guardians of children under 14 when it was previously 18.

People experiencing homelessness and veterans are no longer exempt form the work requirement.

“Many people in America are a single missed paycheck away from needing support from their local food banks,” Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, said when the shutdown started on Oct. 1. “A prolonged shutdown will deepen the strain, and more families will seek help at a time when food banks are already stretched due to sustained high need.”

The government shutdown now entering its fourth week will cause November payments to be delayed. That delay will increase hardships on individuals and families as they approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents can only receive SNAP benefits for 3 months every 3 years unless they meet work criteria. , but pregnant individuals and those unable to work due to a physical or mental condition remain exempt.

It’s important to check your state’s payment schedule to see when your SNAP benefits will arrive this month. If you’re an ABAWD, be aware of the new eligibility rules that could impact how long you can receive assistance.

Check your state’s expected SNAP distribution dates for more details.

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Roz Edward

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October 28, 2025
WATCH: Hurricane Hunters fly into Category 5 Hurricane Melissa

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Hurricane Melissa is a powerful Category 5 hurricane in the Caribbean Sea set to make landfall in Jamaica Tuesday morning.

A U.S. Air Force Reserve crew from the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, known as the “Hurricane Hunters,” flew through Hurricane Melissa on Oct. 27, 2025, collecting valuable data to help improve the forecast, and took video from inside the eye.

Watch the Hurricane Hunters video of Hurricane Melissa’s “stadium effect” inside the eye as it was a Category 5 hurricane on Monday, Oct. 27.

Before making landfall on Tuesday, Oct. 28, the turbulence was so strong inside Hurricane Melissa that the Hurricane Hunters had to abandon the mission and return to its operating location.

You can check the latest updates on Hurricane Melissa here.

More Storm Season Resources

Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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October 28, 2025
LIVE CAMERAS: Watch Category 5 Hurricane Melissa move into Jamaica

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It will make landfall Tuesday.

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Spectrum News Weather Staff

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October 27, 2025
Man in Nazi uniform assaulted Georgia student after he was denied entry to bar, officials say

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A man donned what appeared to be a full Nazi uniform and assaulted a female University of Georgia student outside an off-campus bar, the school said Sunday.

The disturbance unfolded Thursday night as the man was confronted by patrons and kept outside Cutters Pub in downtown Athens, according to a representative for the bar and video of the incident.

“We are horrified by the actions of an individual who, while in downtown Athens wearing a Nazi uniform, assaulted a female University of Georgia student,” the school said in a statement.

“The man is not a student and is not affiliated with the University. His actions, which were caught on videotape, are appalling, and we are grateful to Athens-Clarke County police officers for swiftly apprehending and arresting him.”

The student who was hit, 23-year-old Grace Lang, identified her attacker as Kenneth Leland Morgan. Lang said she knows of Morgan through a friend of a friend and that he is known in her circles and around town.

Lang said two of her friends, one of whom is Jewish, first confronted the man.

“She was mainly just telling him he needed to leave and needed to go home,” Lang said.

Video of the encounter shows the man walking around with a beer mug and swinging it at a woman, seemingly striking her in the face as she goes down.Lang said she got hit by the beer mug after trying to grab the man’s swastika armband.

“He was just feeling very proud of himself for what he was wearing,” said Lang, who said she got four stitches for cuts to her face.

Athens-Clarke County jail records showed that Morgan was booked into custody early Friday. Morgan, born in 1992, was booked on suspicion of two misdemeanor counts of simple battery and one felony count of aggravated assault.

Jail records didn’t reflect if Morgan had hired or been appointed an attorney to speak on his behalf. He remained in custody Sunday.

The university called the costumed man’s act “heinous antisemitic behavior” and told students who witnessed it that counselors are available through the school.

Griffin Eckstein and Nicole Duartecontributed.

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David K. Li and Nollaig O’Connor | NBC News

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October 26, 2025
1 Million Georgians Lose Out on SNAP Benefits During Holidays

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More than 1 million Georgians who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not receive critical food benefits next month due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Georgians who usually receive payments between Nov. 5 and Nov. 23 should not expect to see payment until December.

SNAP supports about 42 million low income people throughout the country each month by assisting them with payments for food. That assistance has already negatively impacted by rising food costs. Adding to the negative impact of delayed payments and rising food costs, changes which have taken effect recently under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill reduces and in some cases eliminates payments altogether.

The new rules decrease the number of Americans who qualify for SNAP by expanding the work exemption from 59 to 65 years old, and the childcare exemption now only applies to parents or guardians of children under 14 when it was previously 18.

People experiencing homelessness and veterans are no longer exempt form the work requirement.

“Many people in America are a single missed paycheck away from needing support from their local food banks,” Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, said when the shutdown started on Oct. 1. “A prolonged shutdown will deepen the strain, and more families will seek help at a time when food banks are already stretched due to sustained high need.”

The government shutdown now entering its fourth week will cause November payments to be delayed. That delay will increase hardships on individuals and families as they approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents can only receive SNAP benefits for 3 months every 3 years unless they meet work criteria. , but pregnant individuals and those unable to work due to a physical or mental condition remain exempt.

It’s important to check your state’s payment schedule to see when your SNAP benefits will arrive this month. If you’re an ABAWD, be aware of the new eligibility rules that could impact how long you can receive assistance.

Check your state’s expected SNAP distribution dates for more details.

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Roz Edward

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October 22, 2025
Convicted felon federally charged after threatening Atlanta airport while armed with AR-15 rifle

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A Georgia man accused of threatening to “shoot up” Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has been federally charged after authorities say he arrived at the busy travel hub with an AR-15-style rifle and dozens of rounds of ammunition in his truck.

Convicted felon Billy Joe Cagle, 49, was charged in a criminal complaint on Tuesday with attempted violence at an international airport, interstate communications containing threats to injure the person of another and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

“As alleged in this complaint, Cagle senselessly threatened to do heinous violence to innocent travelers, at the world’s busiest airport, with a high-powered weapon that he had no legal right to possess,” U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg said. “Thanks to the vigilance of other citizens and the quick action of law enforcement, a horrible tragedy was averted.”

Hertzberg said Cagle was on a FaceTime call on Monday when he allegedly threatened to “shoot up the airport.” The airport Cagle was referring to was Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

MAN ARRESTED WITH FULLY LOADED AR-15 AND KNIVES OUTSIDE PALM BEACH AIRPORT FREQUENTED BY TRUMP

Police-provided photo shows 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle, who was arrested Oct. 20, 2025, after allegedly threatening to “shoot up” Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. (Atlanta Police Department)

While on the call, Hertzberg added, Cagle allegedly stated, “I’m at the airport, and I’m gonna go rat-a-tat-tat,” before abruptly ending the call.

The person on the other end of the call went to the Cartersville Police Department to report Cagle’s threat, and officers with the department alerted the Atlanta Police Department. Cartersville also provided Atlanta police with photos of Cagle and a description of the Chevrolet pickup truck he was reportedly driving.

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum said at a Monday afternoon news conference that Cagle arrived at the airport’s South Terminal at 9:29 a.m. Officers do not believe he was armed, Schierbaum said, adding that video showed him walking toward a crowded TSA checkpoint.

‘TRAGEDY AVERTED’ AT ATLANTA AIRPORT AS POLICE ARREST MAN WITH AR-15 ALLEGEDLY THREATENING TO ‘SHOOT IT UP’

Chevrolet flat-bed pickup truck and recovered AR-15 rifle that police say belonged to 49-year-old Billy Joe Cagle, found parked curbside at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Oct. 20, 2025. (Atlanta Police Department)

Officers canvassed the area and issued a “be-on-the-lookout” alert for Cagle and his Chevrolet flatbed pickup truck.

Schierbaum said officers, using a photo of Cagle, found him at 9:54 a.m. and took him into custody.

During a safety sweep of the airport’s outer perimeter, officers found Cagle’s pickup. Inside, they said they discovered an AR-15 loaded with 27 rounds in the back seat. The weapon was cleared, and the scene declared safe.

BONDI ANNOUNCES ARREST OF ‘COWARD’ WHO ALLEGEDLY THREATENED CONSERVATIVE INFLUENCER FOLLOWING KIRK’S MURDER

Travelers pass through a crowded TSA checkpoint at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on the morning of Oct. 20, 2025, shortly before police arrested Billy Joe Cagle following an alleged threat to “shoot it up.” (Atlanta Police Department)

The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from both the Cartersville and Atlanta police departments and Clayton County District Attorney’s office.

“This is a perfect example of ‘See Something, Say Something’ in action,” FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown said. “When Billy Joe Cagle’s family noticed something wasn’t right, they alerted authorities. Their quick thinking —combined with the swift, heroic response of our law enforcement partners — undoubtedly saved lives.”

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Cagle has a criminal history, including a “pretty significant” prior drug-possession arrest in Cartersville, according to Schierbaum.

The charges against Cagle announced Tuesday are in addition to charges announced previously. Those include terroristic threats, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.

Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.

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October 21, 2025