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Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College’s annual Student Engagement Programs (STEPS) Symposium announced the winners of the eighth annual undergraduate research symposium. This year’s symposium included seven social science and humanities oral presentations, seven STEM oral presentations, six strategic planning and business research oral presentations, and 24 poster presentations.”Undergraduate research experiences help students foster transferable skills like public speaking, teamwork, and adhering to ethical standards,” said Dr. Janet Koposko, associate professor of psychology in ABAC’s School of Arts and Sciences and one of the symposium’s organizers. “The STEPS Symposium gives students an opportunity to showcase their work in a supportive yet professional…

On May 22, 2025, local law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Douglas following a series of controlled purchases of illegal narcotics. The operation led to the arrest of Azikiwie Sekou Phillips, 51, who was taken into custody on outstanding probation warrants. During a search of the residence and surrounding property, authorities recovered approximately $4,240 in cash concealed in a bedroom dresser. The money was wrapped in undergarments and stored in a glove and black pouch. A search of vehicles on the property led to the discovery of illegal narcotics inside a silver 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. Authorities…

Jimmy Jowers, age 70, of Douglas, Georgia passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025 . Mr. Jowers was born on September 29, 1954, in Douglas City, GA to the late John Darling Jowers and Annie Lois Vickers Survivors include wife, Carol Jowers of Douglas, GA, two sons, Matthew (Stephanie) Jowers of Douglas, GA and Michael Jowers of Douglas, GA, three grandchildren, Kaeven Jowers, Niahloni Jowers, and Emrynn Jowers, one brother, Johnnie (Vonice) Jowers of Douglas, GA, several nieces and nephews. Mr. Jowers was preceded in death by two sisters, Joyce Carter and June Grimes. The family will receive friends on…

Clinton James Krupp, age 77, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025. He was born on May 5, 1948, in Toledo, Ohio, to William and Shirley Krupp. Clint professed his faith in Jesus Christ and was a devoted member of St. Mark Community Church in Douglas, Georgia, where his church family became an extension of his own. Clint proudly served his country in the Army during the Vietam War. He retired from the Department of Energy as a respected Machine Specialist. Outside of his professional life, he was an accomplished woodworker and avid golfer. A devoted and attentive father, he…

The City of Douglas has been recognized by the Southern Georgia Regional Commission (SGRC) as an Excellence Standards local government due to its outstanding practices in planning and development. To earn this recognition, a city must exceed the basic requirements established by the regional commission. “We are incredibly grateful to receive this recognition,” says Georgia Henderson, Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director. “Each year, we work to ensure our projects align with our Comprehensive Plan and meet our planning goals. This achievement would not have been possible without the invaluable support from the Southern Georgia Regional Commission. Their assistance has been…

The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that unemployment declined in every regional commission across Georgia in April. “This April, unemployment rates dropped across every region of Georgia,” said Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “When we connect Georgians with meaningful work, we’re putting food on tables, creating stability for individuals and families, and building an economy where our children can see their future—right here at home. This is how we grow a stronger Georgia—one job, one family, one community at a time.” Please see a synopsis of each regional commission below. Coffee and Atkinson counties are in the Southern Georgia Regional…

South Georgia State College celebrated its graduates during annual commencement ceremonies May 15, 2025, on the Douglas Campus and May 16, 2025, on the Waycross Campus. Family members and friends gathered to cheer on a portion of the 331 graduates from summer and fall 2024 and spring 2025. SGSC Interim President Dr. Greg Tanner opened the ceremonies with remarks honoring the perseverance and achievements of this year’s graduates, many of whom have overcome significant challenges—including personal hardships and the aftermath of a destructive hurricane that affected the Douglas campus earlier this year. A special moment of gratitude was extended to…

US 221/State Route 31 non-local traffic in Atkinson County isscheduled to begin detouring Sunday, May 25, so that a Georgia Department of Transportation contractor can replace two old culverts that are in poor condition.The culverts are south of Pearson at Hog Creek and the creek tributary. Non-local traffic will be directed to use SR 37, US 84/SR 38/Valdosta Highway/West Dame Avenue, and US 441/ Pearson Highway. Construction is currently scheduled to be complete in early 2026.The bridge culverts that are being replaced were built in 1940. In addition to their poor condition and age, they were designed using a vehicle that is…

Marjorie Daw Tomlinson passed away on May 23, 2025 at the age of 81 in Marietta, Georgia. She graduated from Coffee County High School and attended the University of Georgia where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority. Margie worked as a director of a preschool and as an administrative assistant for many years. Margie loved being a mother, was an organized and devoted caretaker, and was a compassionate person who felt deeply for others. Margie is survived by her husband, William Marcus Tomlinson and two daughters, Terri Crist and Valerie Tomlinson. She is also survived by five grandchildren,…

The Douglas-Coffee County Economic Development Authority celebrates Governor Brian Kemp’s signing of Senate Bill 13 and Senate Bill 206 into law, marking a significant milestone for economic development opportunities in Coffee County and across Georgia. “We are thrilled that Governor Kemp has signed these important pieces of legislation that will directly benefit our community and enhance our ability to attract new business investment,” said Matt Seale, CEO of the Douglas-Coffee County Economic Development Authority. “These bills represent a commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for our residents and businesses.” Senate Bill 13 allows the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority…