From this morning's Earlybird:

• "After a tumultuous year that included a short war with Russia, the small Caucasus nation of Georgia is spending big on lobbyists and public-relations consultants to shore up support in Washington," The Hill reports. "The country's roster of advocates includes top officials with Democratic and Republican connections. The firm, which was signed to a six-month, $300,000 contract, will provide media and public-relations consulting to enhance 'the reputation of the Republic of Georgia government,' according to the agreement."