Area News
Strong Game, Stronger Voice: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Inspires VSU Students
Former NBA player Michael Kidd-Gilchrist recently delivered a powerful and personal message to future speech-language pathologists at Valdosta State University. Speaking to a class of graduate-level students in VSU’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Kidd-Gilchrist opened up about his lifelong journey as a person who stutters and his mission to advocate for greater awareness,…
Read MoreSGMC Health Welcomes 4 Family Medicine Residents
SGMC Health is welcoming four Family Medicine resident physicians who will join the health system as current postgraduate year‑one (PGY‑1) residents, finishing out their intern year and completing their second and third years of residency training in Valdosta. The incoming residents — Alexander Gardner, DO; Omid Hassanpour, MD; Varoon Kakiaya, MD; and Akshay Patel, DO — will…
Read MoreVSU’s Carol Mikkelsen Honored for Lifetime of Lifting Voices, Shaping Artists
Valdosta State University’s Dr. Carol Mikkelsen was recently named a Georgia Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing Distinguished Teacher. This recognition celebrates her exceptional dedication to vocal pedagogy, artistic excellence, and mentorship of emerging singers. The Distinguished Teacher Award from the Georgia Chapter of the National Association of Teachers of Singing is…
Read MoreSGMC Health Expands Orthopedic Care with New Valdosta Location
SGMC Health has relocated SGMC Orthopedics to a brand new, expanded location at 2310 N. Patterson St., Suite B, in Valdosta, enhancing access to comprehensive orthopedic care for patients across South Georgia. The new clinic offers a modern, patient‑focused environment designed to support a wide range of orthopedic needs—from everyday joint pain to advanced surgical care. The practice is…
Read MoreSRTC Foundation Recognizes 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award Winners
On the evening of February 21, 2026, the Southern Regional Technical College Foundation recognized three Distinguished Alumni Award winners during the Foundation’s “Comedy for a Cause” event at the Biscuit Company in Thomasville, Georgia. Those recognized were April Bentley of Moultrie, Katie Brey of Tifton, and Drew Maxwell of Boston. The Distinguished Alumni each received…
Read MoreWild Adventures Theme Park Launches 2026 Season with All-New Experiences, Big Upgrades & Fresh Flavors
Wild Adventures Theme Park officially kicks off its milestone 30th anniversary season on Saturday, March 14, and this season is sure to be a glow-up. For three decades, families have made memories riding, sliding and exploring together. Now, the park is unveiling an enhanced experience across every corner, featuring upgraded rides, brand-new animal encounters, fresh food…
Read MoreCommissioner King Encourages Georgians to Use Time Change for Smoke Alarm Safety
As Georgians prepare to set their clocks back this weekend, Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King is reminding families to take a moment to ensure their smoke alarms are ready to protect them in an emergency. Daylight Saving Time ends at 2:00 a.m. this Sunday, providing a natural opportunity for households to check…
Read MoreRabies Risk Increases as Wildlife Becomes More Active
The Georgia Department of Public Health’s South Health District reminds residents that as the weather warms, wildlife is more active and encounters with animals such as raccoons, foxes, and bats may increase. Residents are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and report any animals acting unusually. Being proactive is key to preventing exposure to…
Read MoreSecretary Raffensperger Using Music to Teach Georgia Students Financial Literacy
Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and Funding the Future released the Spring 2026 tour dates. Partnering with singer-songwriter Gooding, the tour will visit 11 Georgia schools, turning high school auditoriums into energetic concerts where students gain key financial literacy skills. The tour will make the following stops: Monday, March 9 at 9 AM – Cook Middle…
Read MoreValdosta Main Street and Central Valdosta Development Authority Earn Renewal of Georgia Main Street Accreditation
The Valdosta Main Street Program and the Central Valdosta Development Authority (CVDA) have once again earned accreditation from Georgia Main Street, reaffirming Valdosta’s continued commitment to maintaining a vibrant and economically healthy downtown district. Administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the Georgia Main Street program provides training, technical assistance, and strategic support to…
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