The morning begins with heartbreaking news out of North Georgia, rising prices at the pump, and advice to help your body adjust after losing an hour of sleep this weekend. Here are three things you need to know to start your day.
Hall County community mourns beloved teacher and coach
A North Georgia community is grieving after the tragic death of a beloved educator at North Hall High School.
Authorities say Jason Hughes, a math teacher and coach at the school, died in a tragic accident during what began as a senior prank. According to reports, four teenagers were TP-ing Hughes’ home when the incident occurred.
When Hughes went outside to confront the situation, he reportedly tripped and fell into the roadway. He was then struck by a vehicle.
Hughes was widely known and loved throughout the Hall County community. He was devoted to his wife, Laura, and was a proud father to his two sons, Luke and Owen.
Students, parents and fellow educators are sharing tributes and memories, remembering him not just as a teacher, but as a mentor who made a lasting impact on countless students.
Gas prices jump as global tensions rise
Drivers across Georgia may notice higher prices at the pump this week.
Oil prices have surged amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, climbing above $100 a barrel for the first time since 2022. As a result, the average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in Georgia has jumped significantly.
According to AAA, the statewide average has risen from $2.78 to $3.23 per gallon since the start of the Iran war — nearly a 50-cent increase.
Prices are even higher in other parts of the country. In California, drivers are paying more than $5 per gallon for regular gasoline.
The good news: analysts say the spike is expected to be temporary. Experts believe the higher prices will likely last weeks, not months, depending on how the conflict develops.
How to adjust after losing an hour of sleep
If you’re feeling tired, cranky or off this morning, you’re not alone.
The switch to daylight saving time over the weekend meant many Americans lost an hour of sleep Saturday night, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock.
Sleep experts say there are several simple ways to help your body adjust more quickly.
Getting sunlight early in the morning can help reset your internal clock. Experts also recommend eating dinner earlier than usual, even if it doesn’t quite feel like dinner time yet.
It’s also important to avoid afternoon naps, limit caffeine later in the day and reduce exposure to bright screens from phones or tablets in the evening. Those habits can make it harder for your body to fall asleep earlier at night.
Making a few small adjustments over the next few days can help your body adapt and get back into a normal sleep rhythm.