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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…

The GBI has arrested and charged Jon Worrell, 58, of Douglas, with malice murder, felony murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and aggravated battery related to the death of his wife, Doris Worrell, almost 20 years ago. Jon, a current resident of Maryville, Missouri, was taken into custody at his home without incident. The GBI and the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office were assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Division of Drug and Crime Patrol, the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office, Operation Relentless Pursuit, Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maryville Department of Public Safety. Jon is currently booked at the Coffee…

John Quincy Taft Jr., age 66, of Nicholls, GA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas, GA following an extended illness. He was born on August 1st, 1958, the son of Mr. John Quincy Taft Sr. and Mrs. Barbara J. White Taft. His survivors include: two sons; Jonathan (Marcie) Harper of Fitzgerald, GA and James Harper of Jacksonville, FL, two daughters; Julia (Victor Sanchez) Taft, of Douglas, GA and Wendy Taft of Douglas, GA, one brother; Gordon (Mona) Taft of Westgreen, GA, one sister; Gloria Herbert of Douglas, GA, special friend; Cheryl…

Zulema V. Gattis, age 78, of Douglas, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas, GA. Ms. Gattis was born on February 23, 1947, the daughter of Mr. Stephen Velez and Mrs. Maria Velez. Her survivors include: one daughter; Cheri (Robert Batten) Bennett of Douglas, GA, one grandson; Skyler Batten of Douglas, GA, one brother; Joe Edward (Kela) Velez of Arlington, TX, five sisters; Zita Carrasco of Odessa, TX, America Yanez of Rotan, TX, Argentina (Luther) Yanez of Rotan, TX, China Silvia of Kansas City, TX, and Carrolina (John) Tweedy of Emerald Isles,…

This year, the annual 4th of July Freedom Fest is scheduled to take place on Friday, July 4, 2025. In order for the 4th of July Freedom Fest to continue to be a success, sponsors are needed to help fund the fireworks display that brings joy to thousands each year. The city is currently reaching out to potential sponsors and vendors to join us in making this year’s event unforgettable. “The annual Freedom Fest is a highly anticipated tradition in Douglas and Coffee County,” says Charlie Davis, City Manager. “We are reaching out to business owners and organization leaders for their…