SUMMARY: In 2025, Coastal Georgia recorded a 73% bald eagle nest success rate with 83 eaglets, including five new nests and 81 occupied, per Georgia DNR. The coast’s success is attributed to abundant food in estuaries, while southwest Georgia showed lower rates, possibly due to storm damage from Helene and Milton in 2024 and lingering avian influenza effects. The disease, initially coastal, has spread inland. Despite this, eagle populations have rebounded, with Georgia maintaining around 200 nest territories annually for a decade. The public is encouraged to report nests and support conservation through special license plates.

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SUMMARY: Senate Republicans passed a tax and spending bill including the largest Medicaid cuts since its 1960s inception, aiming to reduce spending by $1 trillion over ten years. The Congressional Budget Office projects nearly 12 million lower-income Americans will lose coverage by 2034, mainly targeting those who gained insurance via Medicaid expansion. Key measures include strict work requirements for beneficiaries and restrictions on state provider taxes, which could destabilize rural hospitals. Critics warn this will increase uninsured rates, medical debt, and healthcare access issues, while GOP leaders claim no eligible individuals will lose benefits. The bill awaits House approval amid concerns over its impact on the social safety net.

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SUMMARY: Tuesday in the CSRA brings heat, humidity, and scattered to numerous thunderstorms, especially north and west of Augusta, with possible damaging winds of 40–60 mph and heavy rain causing localized flash flooding. A cold front from the west fuels this moisture and storm activity. Storm chances shift south Wednesday, with temperatures in the upper 80s to near 90, maintaining muggy summer conditions. By Thursday, drier air filters in, though some afternoon showers remain possible. For July 4th and the weekend, drier, sunnier, and seasonably hot weather is expected. A low-pressure system near the Florida Panhandle may develop, but impacts are uncertain and likely minimal.

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