State Rep. Kevin Tanner carried on a longstanding tradition started by his 9th district predecessor Amos Amerson by meeting with local community members over breakfast Saturday in Dawsonville.

"I was thrilled with the turn out we had at my first informational breakfast," Tanner said. "I believe it is important for elected officials to find ways to communicate with citizens."

The weekly meetings, which will continue throughout the legislative session, give residents of the district an opportunity to meet and discuss issues with their representative in Atlanta.

Nearly a dozen people showed up to hear what Tanner had to say after his first days on the job.

Sworn in to office Jan. 14, Tanner cited having family and close friends by his side as he delivered his oath of office to serve the district to the best of his abilities as one of his most proud accomplishments.

"They're proud of me, and I'm proud of them," he said.

The freshman legislator said he was also proud to be named to the Natural Resources and Environment, Education and Intergovernmental Coordination committees in the House.

He called each committee "important" to him and the district.

"I have three daughters. I want to do everything I can to make sure we have the best education system in the country," he said.

Growing up on a farm, he said he also recognizes the importance of natural resources in Dawson and Lumpkin counties.

As the session progresses, Tanner said the budget will be the top issue for state leaders.

Ethics reform, transportation and boating regulations as they pertain to alcohol are also expected to be hot topics in the coming months, he said.

Tanner's next breakfast will be at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Wagon Wheel in Dahlonega. He'll return to Ryan's in Dawsonville on Feb. 2 and will alternate between the two counties throughout the legislative session.