Author: Submitted

Former instructors at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College fondly remember the Sheppard family. “I had the pleasure of teaching English to both of them,” says Michael Williams, Executive Vice President of the college. “They were extraordinary individuals and a joy to teach. We’ve crossed paths many times since then because both are so prominent in the community and such strong ambassadors for technical education.” Sandra Sheppard completed multiple programs at Wiregrass and credits Wiregrass Foundation Scholarships as key to her success. “There were at least two times in my educational journey when I came up short on tuition,” she recalls. “In…

Douglas Rotary Club recognized an exceptional Wiregrass CDL student at the club’s November 6, 2025 meeting. Joshua Hunter Millhollin was presented with a check by Treasurer John Day. A check presentation was also made to Clay Lott to support the Coffee County Food Bank. Mr. Millhollin, in turn, donated his check to the Food Bank. This kindness demonstrated the fine character of the Wiregrass honoree. Douglas Rotary is a service organization seeking to advance the service ideals of Rotary International by investing time and resources in programs for children and youth, community development, disease prevention, family support, environmental health, and…

The City of Douglas is formally inviting all apartment complex managers within the city limits to a collaboration meeting on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at City Hall (302 S. Madison Avenue) regarding a proposed local ordinance that will make it mandatory for apartment complex owners to install a security camera system and tag readers. The purpose of this ordinance is to deter criminal activities within or near apartment complexes. “Modern surveillance systems not only act as strong deterrents to offenders but also assist law enforcement in identifying culprits and resolving incidents swiftly. With the recent criminal activities within or near…

The CCA Lady Patriots took the field again this week, opening play on Tuesday against two experienced programs, Class AAA Mt. de Sales and Class AA Georgia Christian. Mt. de Sales, a fast-paced and explosive team, jumped out to an early lead before CCA settled in and mounted a strong second-half comeback. Despite closing the gap late, the Lady Patriots came up just short, falling 20–18. Quarterback Brilynn Waldron connected with Arabelle Roberts for three touchdowns through the air, including a 55-yard strike. On defense, Roberts led the way with 10 flag pulls and an interception. Next up was Georgia Christian School, the 2024 GIAA…

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College’s Adult Education program is once again the recipient of a $5,000 Truist Community Development Grant. The grant funds will be used to help students earn industry-recognized credentials at no out-of-pocket cost. The Integrated Education and Training (IET) program prepares Adult Education students for in-demand careers and helps boost their earning potential. Students can earn industry-recognized credentials in areas such as Manufacturing, Medical Office, Construction, and Welding while attending Adult Education classes. All IET students also earn their Georgia BEST soft skills certification. Dean of Adult Education Services Kelly Peacock shared, “These grant funds will allow us…

On February 19, 1971, the badly decomposed body of an unidentified white female was discovered floating in Shady Brook Creek at Lake Panasoffkee under the Interstate 75 overpass in Sumter County, Florida. The victim was found with a size 36 men’s leather belt wrapped around her neck. She appeared to be wrapped in carpet, and wearing plaid green pants, a matching green shirt, and a shawl with green and yellow print, along with a Baylor wristwatch, a yellow gold ring with clear stone on her left ring finger, and a small, thin yellow gold necklace. Investigators believed that she had…

On November 5, 2025, at approximately 8:51 p.m., officers with the Douglas Police Department responded to the 1000 block of East Baker Highway following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of a shooting and confirmed that two individuals had sustained gunshot wounds. One victim was transported by ambulance to Coffee Regional Medical Center, while the second arrived at the hospital by private vehicle. Both victims are reported to have non-life-threatening injuries. The Criminal Investigations Division is actively investigating the incident. At this time, no additional details are being released. Anyone with information related to this case is asked…

Linda Taylor, age 72, of Broxton, Georgia passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at her home. Taylor was born on October 19, 1953, in Douglas, GA to the late Desso Surrency and the late Emma Lee Surrency. Survivors include: her beloved husband, Larry Taylor of Broxton, GA; two daughters, Michelle (Kevin) Bixler of Douglas, GA and Carol (Pete) Williams of Alma, GA; one son, Scott (Lisa) Taylor; ten grandchildren, Teddy Williams, Shawn Williams, Matthew Spivey, Tiffany Smith, Austin Bixler, Alex Bixler, Kameron Taylor, Kaitlyn Tacketson, Crystal Stone, and Nichole Allen; fifteen great-grandchildren, along with several nieces, nephews and…

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College is proud to announce the 2025 Wiregrass Alumni of the Year, Stephen Raney. The announcement was made at the Technical College System of Georgia’s Fall Leadership Conference in Savannah last month. Stephen graduated from the Architectural Drafting program in 1992 from what was formerly known as Valdosta Technical College, now Wiregrass Georgia Technical College. He currently serves as the Human Resources Manager at MANA Nutrition (Mother Administered Nutritive Aid). MANA’s mission is to end malnutrition by producing and supplying ready-to-use therapeutic food globally to help children. From southern Georgia to South Sudan, MANA shines a light…

Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers have won Song of the Year – Jazz/Blues for “Just Walk Away” at the 11th Annual Josie Music Awards, held November 2, 2025, at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The event celebrated independent music, honoring standout artists and drawing global attendees. “Just Walk Away,” from the band’s album Burn It Down – released January 2025 – blends Southern blues rock with driving rhythms and Derrick Dove’s gravelly vocals. Co-written by Dove, Jamie Lee Richardson, Johnathan David Thomas, and Jason Walt Dunn (Wicked Walrus Music, BMI), it explores heartbreak and resilience. Released as a…