Meet Goldie [Marigold]! Goldie is a 7-month-old Beagle & English Springer Spaniel mix with a nose for adventure and enough personality to keep you laughing every single day.
Goldie is a true sporting dog through and through. She’s active, intelligent, and always on the lookout for her next great adventure. Whether she’s sniffing every inch of the backyard, splashing through puddles, or investigating something she probably shouldn’t be, Goldie approaches life with endless curiosity. She’s just a tiny bit mischievous (okay… maybe more than a tiny bit ), but that’s all part of her charm!
As a natural hunter, Goldie has a STRONG prey drive and occasionally likes to present her people with “gifts” from the yard. She means well… even if her idea of a present isn’t exactly what you had in mind. When the adventures wind down, Goldie is a sweet, affectionate girl who LOVES spending time with her people and playing with her canine friends. She’s housebroken, crate trained, and absolutely loves other dogs, making her a wonderful companion for a home with a playful pup. Goldie also thinks cats are waaay too interesting, so she’d do best in a home without feline roommates.
Meet Moss! Some dogs arrive with dramatic backstories… and some are simply discovered like tiny woodland creatures wandering into civilization. Moss was found abandoned at a local Dollar General, but despite his rough start, this sweet hound/shepherd mix has held onto his gentle heart and hopeful spirit.
At approximately 1 year old, Moss is the perfect blend of shy sweetheart and playful goofball. New people can make him a little nervous at first, but give him a little patience (and maybe a toy or two), and you’ll quickly discover the loving, loyal boy hiding beneath those cautious eyes. Moss is a simple guy, really. His favorite things in life include following interesting smells like they’re part of an important forest quest, playing with toys, romping around with his canine friends, and soaking up quiet moments with the people he trusts most.
This handsome boy is crate trained, housebroken, and currently studying very hard in his “How to Be the Best Dog Ever” classes as he works on learning basic commands. Fully vetted, neutered, vaccinated, microchipped — all the important things — Moss is officially ready to trade his uncertain beginning for a forever home full of love, patience, adventure, and cozy naps.
Meet Ruby! Like the gemstone she’s named after, Ruby is beautiful, resilient, and shines even after life’s hardest storms.
This gorgeous Black Mouth Cur/Shepherd mix is approximately 3.5-4 years old and has a heart as big as her smile. Ruby’s world was turned upside down when a fire destroyed her family’s home, and she found herself saying goodbye to everything she knew. After spending several months in the shelter, she’s finally getting the chance to remember what it feels like to be loved, safe, and part of a family again.
And oh, does Ruby love her people. If Ruby had one wish, it would be to accompany her favorite human absolutely everywhere. Kitchen? She’s there. Living room? Right behind you. Bathroom? She volunteers as your emotional support supervisor. Ruby is happiest when she’s close to the people she loves and never misses an opportunity to hand out affection, tail wags, and adoring looks.
Meet Boone! Boone is a handsome 4 month old Shepherd mix puppy, who is finally ready to find his happily ever after!
When Boone first came to us from the shelter, he was very sick and battling several intestinal parasites. He was also so frightened that he’d hide in his crate, close his eyes, and hope no one noticed him. All he wanted was to be invincible.
Today, Boone is discovering that the world isn’t so scary after all! While he can still be a little shy with new people, his sweet personality shines once he feels safe. He absolutely LOVES other dogs, is learning that cats are friends (not food), does GREAT with kids, and after a fun play session, he’s happiest curled up on the couch or napping at your feet.
On August 12, 1908, Ford’s first “Model T” rolled off a Detroit, Michigan, factory floor. Within six years, the car, company and man were propelled to unprecedented success, thanks to the new Highland Park plant’s first-of-its-kind assembly line, which created the intricate product quickly and in large numbers.
“If it hadn’t been for Henry Ford’s drive to create a mass market for cars, America wouldn’t have a middle class today,” wrote [Lee] Iacocca.
Increased travel spurred appeals for better and more roads, the development of suburbs, the oil industry’s rise and a boom in gas stations, strip malls and motels.
But the assembly line itself had the biggest impact on American society, Hyde contended, in making possible the swift, mass production of everything from computers to “fast food.”
[T]he government of East Germany, on the night of August 12, 1961, began to seal off all points of entrance into West Berlin from East Berlin by stringing barbed wire and posting sentries. In the days and weeks to come, construction of a concrete block wall began, complete with sentry towers and minefields around it. The Berlin Wall succeeded in completely sealing off the two sections of Berlin.
The ERTA included a 25 percent reduction in marginal tax rates for individuals, phased in over three years, and indexed for inflation from that point on. The marginal tax rate, or the tax rate on the last dollar earned, was considered more important to economic activity than the average tax rate (total tax paid as a percentage of income earned), as it affected income earned through “extra” activities such as education, entrepreneurship or investment. Reducing marginal tax rates, the theory went, would help the economy grow faster through such extra efforts by individuals and businesses. The 1981 act, combined with another major tax reform act in 1986, cut marginal tax rates on high-income taxpayers from 70 percent to around 30 percent, and would be the defining economic legacy of Reagan’s presidency.
Reagan’s tax cuts were designed to put maximum emphasis on encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship and creating incentives for the development of venture capital and greater investment in human capital through training and education. The cuts particularly benefited “idea” industries such as software or financial services; fittingly, Reagan’s first term saw the advent of the information revolution, including IBM’s introduction of its first personal computer (PC) and the rise or launch of such tech companies as Intel, Microsoft, Dell, Sun Microsystems, Compaq and Cisco Systems.
Archibald Bulloch was not standing on the sidelines of history in the summer of 1776. He was out making it, as Coastal Heritage Society CEO Nora Lee tells it.
A specific example of his making history was on Aug. 10 that year when he read the Declaration of Independence aloud in Savannah for the first time. He chose the city’s Johnson Square as his place of reading.
Now 250 years later Savannah commemorated that history Monday with a reenactment of the moment. Over 100 people, including historians, local elected officials and Esther F. Garrison School for the Arts eighth-graders, gathered to hear the declaration as if from Bulloch himself.
“Imagine this square on that day. Imagine a crowd gathering like today,” Lee said. “This was the first time they would hear the words declaring that these colonies were no longer subjects of the king, but were instead claiming the right to govern themselves.”
The event was led by the Savannah US250 Commission.
“We stand here being the recipient of 250 years of struggle and strife, all founded upon an idea that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness was an opportunity for all,” said Savannah Mayor Van Johnson.
Sierra is a delightful 3-year-old bundle of fun, ready to bring joy and laughter to her new family. With a curious and playful spirit, she approaches life with enthusiasm and an open heart. Sierra is a true athlete, always up for a game or a good run, but she also knows how to relax and unwind, making her the perfect couch companion for movie nights and lazy Sundays. She’s gentle, affectionate, and brave, with a love for kisses and a protective streak, ensuring her family feels safe and cherished.
Sierra is a smart girl who understands the importance of manners and knows how to sit and stay. She’s independent but loyal, always up for playing with her toys and bones… with a love for squeaky toys and a lure. She’s good with other dogs, too, and would make an amazing addition to a family with older kids, offering a lifetime of love and laughter. She does need proper introduction to new dogs so shes not a dog park girly and will bark on a leash. That said she plays with all our new fosters coming in and helps with training. Shes just picky about her first impression and needs privacy fence if she is in a busy neighborhood. She could also be an only dog. Could you be the family Sierra has been waiting for?
Doogie has LIVED HIS ENTIRE LIFE OUTSIDE BUT now he is in a home with a wonderful foster and learning how to be an inside dog. So far he is doing great, only one accident but loving the sofa and his 2 foster sisters. For the first time ever he is enjoying a warm bed, cuddles with a human and a good night kiss at bedtime. He is crate trained and so far doing well on his house training. He does need a fenced yard and another dog in the home would be great but not a deal breaker. He would love some kids to snuggle and play with.
Sweet as Honey is this little girl! About 14 months old and only 32lbs. She is great with dogs of all sizes, cats and kids. She still wants to play and jump so little ones would not be a good fit. She is being fostered with farm animals along with 2 bigger dogs and does great. She is crate and house trained. She DOES NEED A FENCED YARD and another playful dog or two in the home. She loves toys and playing tug and chase. Honey loves taking a run in her yard and then sunbathing on the deck. Her fun and playful energy is infectious for other dogs. Once she gets her energy out it is nap and cuddle time with her people or dog friends. Honey is a great family dog, are you her furever family?
Sally is a lovable 7 month old mix lab/terrier mix with a personality as big as her puppy paws! This happy girl is looking for a foster or forever family to help her continue learning all the wonderful things that come with being part of a family.
Sallys absolute favorite thing in the world? A squeaky ball! You will often find her proudly carrying one around or trying to convince everyone nearby to join in the fun. She loves playing chase with her dog friends, tug-of-war with her favorite toys, and showing off her impressive sofa zoomies in the evening. Fair warning this girl has some serious love and kisses to give so she will launch herself straight into your arms when shes excited!
Like any growing puppy, Sally is crate trained and will go to the door when she needs to go outside to potty. She’s eager to learn and would love a family willing to help her become the pawfect canine citizen. When playtime is over, Sally is all about cozy naps and snuggling up with her people.
In 1968, the right-hander was 158 days shy of the five years’ playing time needed to qualify for the major league pension. He would reach out to 29 teams and 29 teams would turn him down.
The problem was, he was 62.
But Braves president Bill Bartholomay saw an opportunity. While it would help at the box office for a franchise that was in its third season in Atlanta, it was also about something more.
“I jumped all over it, because I just thought it was the right thing to do,” said Bartholomay, currently the team’s chairman emeritus. “I didn’t think of it so much from the standpoint of diversity, I thought it was just the right thing to do.”
After reaching his 158 required days, Paige left the Braves and less than three years later, began drawing that pension. He received $250 a month.
“It was momentous and he did quality for his pension,” Bartholomay said, “but more importantly, the slight recognition for one of the great athletes, maybe one of the .. certainly short list of greatest pitchers of all time.”
“Baseball would have been guilty of negligence should it not assure this legendary figure a place in the pension plan,” the [Braves] owner said at the signing in 1968. Looking back 40 years on, Bartholomay says Satchel justified his faith by performing sensationally as a goodwill ambassador.
“He came to us four months after the King funeral in Atlanta,” says Bartholomay. “Those were pretty tough times for African-Americans and the country in its entirety. Satchel understood that. He helped in a way that went way beyond baseball.”
Governor Brian Kemp issuedExecutive Order # 08.10.26.01, suspending Burke County Sheriff Alonzo Williams. The suspension lasts until the case’s final disposition or the end of the current term.Continue Reading..
Meet Resi! Resi is the sweetest 2.5 year old mix! She is 70 lbs and fully grown. This poor girl was adopted from a shelter but did not get along with the kitties in the home. Instead of being returned, a wonderful family stepped up to foster her.
Resi is currently being fostered in Griffin, GA. She goes to doggy daycare weekly and does fantastic with all of the dogs there! She also loves people and everyone she meets! She is a very confident dog with no nervous energy. She is active but also calm and will snuggle right up to you.
Resi is fully vetted- up to date on all shots, spayed and microchipped. She is also heartworm negative. Crate and house trained. This girl is perfect and so deserving of her forever home!
Meet Ryka (originally Candy)! We rescued Ryka back in June 2024 when she had a broken leg and was dumped at the local shelter. She went to a wonderful foster where her leg healed and then was adopted out to a family in August. Unfortunately she did not get the home she deserved even though we knew them and since came back to us in January. After additional vetting and weight gain she is ready to find her FOREVER home!!
Ryka is almost a year old and weighs 55 lbs. She is doing amazing and loves playing with the dogs in her foster home! She is crate and house trained. She is high energy, still like a puppy and is looking for an active home! She is very cuddly when tired and wants to lay right on your lap! She is also very treat motivated and eager to learn. She does need to be fed separately for breakfast/dinner time in her crate! She’s also wonderful on leash and would make a great walking and/or hiking partner! She is great with kids as well.
Ryka is fully vetted- up to date on all shots, spayed and microchipped. She is current on monthly flea, tick and heartworm prevention. She is heartworm negative. She’s available locally for meet and greets. She can also be adopted out of state to approved adopters- a transport fee would apply in addition to her adoption fee. Come scoop this sweet girl up!
Meet Molly! Molly is a momma to 3 other puppies we currently have up for adoption. This poor girl and her babies were found dumped in the woods in a neighborhood. Dumped with absolutely nothing and left to fend for themselves. The world is so cruel! It was truly a miracle they were found and a temporary foster stepped up at the last minute.
Molly is estimated at 4 years old and we believe she is a brindle Plott Hound mix. She just went to the vet last week and weighed in at 54 lbs. She is back to a healthy weight post nursing her babies and all ready to find her forever home.
Molly is great with other dogs. She is very submissive and gets along well with others. We are sure she would be fine in a home with children as well. She really wants to be around people and get attention as we are sure she was starved for it her whole life! She has been great with crate and potty training as well!
Molly is now fully vetted- up to date on all shots, spayed and microchipped. She is heartworm negative! She is on monthly flea, tick and heartworm prevention. She’s available locally for meet and greets. She can also be adopted out of state to approved adopters- a transport fee would apply in addition to her adoption fee.
Meet Bunnie! Bunnie and her brother Jelly Roll were found as roaming strays on a street commonly known for dumping dogs. Unfortunately owners were never found. We believe they are retriever mixes! Bunnie is approx 10-11 months old.
Bunnie is dog friendly and gets along with all of the dogs in her foster home. We do not adopt siblings together but she would love a home with another dog. She also needs a fenced in yard and prefers to be outside the majority of time, of course while coming in throughout the day and sleeping inside at night but she is a big lover of the outdoors! She is still a puppy and high energy so she needs adopters that are understanding of all the exercise she needs.
Bunnie is shy at first with new people she meets. We think she probably wasn’t around people often and we don’t have any idea of how long she was dumped for and fending for herself. She does warm up and once she knows you she is extremely friendly. We would recommend a home with children over 10 years old.
Bunnie is fully vetted- up to date on shots, spayed and microchipped. She is heartworm negative and current on monthly flea, tick and heartworm prevention. She is available locally for meet and greets. She can also be adopted out of state to approved adopters- a transport fee would apply in addition to her adoption fee.
Resolved, nemine contradicente, That we apprehend the Parliament of Great Britain hath not, nor ever had, any right to tax his Majesty’s American subjects; for it is evident beyond contradiction, the constitution admits of no taxation without representation; that they are coeval and inseparable; and every demand for the support of government should be by requisition made to the several houses of representatives.
Resolved, nemine contradicente, That we concur with our sister colonies in every constitutional measure to obtain redress of American grievances, and will by every lawful means in our power, maintain those inestimable blessings for which we are indebted to God and the Constitution of our country–a Constitution founded upon reason and justice, and the indelible rights of mankind.
The Savannah U.S. 250 Commission is holding a reading of the Declaration of Independence today in recognition of the August 10, 1776 first public reading in Georgia, according to WSAV.
For many Americans, July 4 is the date most closely associated with the Declaration of Independence. But in Savannah, another date carries a significant place in Revolutionary War history: August 10, 1776.
That is the day the Declaration of Independence arrived in Savannah and was publicly read for the first time. Two hundred and fifty years later, Savannah is bringing that moment back to life.
The Savannah U.S. 250 Commission, with support from the City of Savannah, will recreate the historic reading Monday morning in Johnson Square as part of the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The free event begins at 10:30 a.m. and is open to the public.
The Declaration was adopted by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, but it took more than five weeks for the document to reach Savannah. Georgia was the last of the 13 colonies to publicly hear the Declaration, according to Luciana Spracher, the City of Savannah’s Archives and History Officer.
“The Declaration of Independence didn’t arrive in Savannah until August 10th and was read to the public on that date,” Spracher said.
That public reading marked an important moment for Savannah, which was at the center of Georgia’s colonial government and revolutionary activity. Spracher said the commemoration is an opportunity to recognize Savannah’s role in the fight for American independence – a story that continued long after the Declaration was read.
“The Siege of Savannah didn’t happen until 1779,” Spracher said. “The city was occupied by the British until 1782.”
While the nation celebrates independence beginning in 1776, Savannah’s experience of the Revolutionary War continued for years.
Monday’s ceremony will recreate the original journey taken by Archibald Bulloch, then president of Georgia’s Provincial Council. Reenactors portraying Bulloch and others will march from Reynolds Square to Johnson Square, following the route believed to have been taken in 1776.
Reynolds Square was home to the church where the Provincial Council met. From there, Bulloch traveled to Johnson Square to publicly read the Declaration. Once in Johnson Square, a reenactor portraying Bulloch will read the Declaration of Independence aloud.
Organizers will also feature a Liberty Pole and speakers discussing Savannah’s role in the Revolutionary War.
The event will include local eighth graders from Garrison School, who will participate as part of their Georgia studies. Spracher said the living-history component can make historical events more tangible, particularly for younger students.
“It’s one thing for me to tell you about something, but it’s another thing to see somebody dressed up and talking in that mannerism, wearing wool uniforms,” she said.
As the seat of Georgia’s colonial government, Savannah became a center of political activity as residents debated how Georgia should respond to Britain’s policies and whether the colony should support independence.
Spracher said Georgia’s Sons of Liberty met in Savannah, where they discussed taxation, the Continental Congress and the colony’s response to British actions.
Revolutionary activity also included raising the Liberty Pole, responding to events in Savannah’s harbor and the arrest of the royal governor.
“All of that’s happening right here in Savannah,” Spracher said.
The city’s history did not end with the Declaration. Savannah would later become the site of the 1779 Siege of Savannah and remain under British occupation until 1782.
Monday’s reenactment is part of a larger slate of events commemorating the 250th anniversary.
The city and its partners plan to host additional history programs throughout the year, including lectures, walking tours and scavenger hunts focused on Savannah’s Revolutionary-era history.
Spracher said the city is partnering with the Savannah U.S. 250 Commission and the Learning Center of Senior Citizens Inc. on a series of programs, including a monthly lecture series called “Landmarks of Liberty.”
Information about upcoming programs and existing scavenger hunts is available through the City of Savannah’s 250th-anniversary programming. Click here to see a schedule.
Georgia Politics, Campaigns, and Elections
Atlanta has the most surveillance cameras per capita of any city in the United States, according to the AJC.
Ramsey is talkative boy with a lot to say, but really all he wants is a family to go home with! He is a bundle of energy, ready to play all day with someone. He also loves water! If water is around, he is ready to play in it, even his water bowl sometimes. This boy is just full of life and ready to live it with people he loves. Please come by and meet this silly boy, he may be the perfect guy for you!Please read the animal bios completely before requesting additional information as we do our best to answer the most frequently ask questions in these bios.
Cortana is a wild deer, and will frolic through the backyard with her new family. She is a very high energy, silly girl that would love some kids to keep up with her and her adventures! She also does well with other dogs! She will keep you on your toes in the best way. With her excited energy, she would love a big, secure yard to keep her safe and entertained. She would benefit greatly with some training and structure to be the best version of herself. Cortana is the life of the party and can’t wait to be your best friend! Stop by today to meet this amazing girl! She will blow you away!Please read the animal bios completely before requesting additional information as we do our best to answer the most frequently ask questions in these bios.
Jingle is a fun-loving, energetic boy with a big personality and an even bigger zest for life! He’s incredibly smart and highly food motivated, making him an awesome dog to continue training with. He absolutely loves to run and show off his zoomies, and he plays well with other dogs- especially those who can match his high energy level . He would thrive in an active home with people who enjoy hiking, dog sports, or spending lots of time outdoors. Jingle does have a bit of kennel reactivity which can definitely be improved upon with consistent work, and he’ll need a family committed to training and socializing him. He will need a home with kids that are 13 or older. If you’re wanting an adventurous, intelligent companion who’s always ready for the next activity, Jingle might be your perfect match!!
Bella is a sweet, happy girl who’s a little more outgoing than her brother Brody, but she still takes a moment to warm up to new people. Once she knows you’re a friend, her joyful personality shines through- she loves to play, explore, and share her cheerful energy with those she trusts. She does do well with most other dogs and would enjoy a canine companion who matches her friendly but laid back vibe. Bella would thrive in a calm home without loud or small children, a place where she could feel safe and loved. A fenced yard is preferred for her to be able to safely romp and burn off her playful energy. This amazing girl will fill your days with quiet happiness and tail wags, so please come meet her today!
On August 7, 1790, a delegation of Creeks met with the United States Secretary of War and signed the Treaty of New York, ceding all land between the Ogeechee and Oconee Rivers to Georgia.
On August 8, 1863, General Robert E. Lee offered his resignation in a letter to Confederate President Jefferson Davis, following the Battle of Gettysburg.
Herman E. Talmadge was born on August 9, 1913, son of Eugene Talmadge, who later served as Governor. Herman Talmadge himself served as Governor and United States Senator from Georgia.
The board was directed to be more humane in its treatment of prisoners and abolished whippings, leg irons, and chains. Until 1945, prisoners in Georgia could expect to have heavy steel shackles put on by a blacksmith upon arrival. They were then taken out to work under severe conditions.
Ford, the first president who came to the office through appointment rather than election, had replaced Spiro Agnew as vice president only eight months before. In a political scandal independent of the Nixon administration’s wrongdoings in the Watergate affair, Agnew had been forced to resign in disgrace after he was charged with income tax evasion and political corruption.
In September 1974, Ford pardoned Nixon for any crimes he may have committed while in office, explaining that he wanted to end the national divisions created by the Watergate scandal.
Georgia Politics, Campaigns, and Elections
The home of an employee of the Georgia Secretary of State was hit by gunfire, according to the AJC.
The Atlanta home of a top aide to Georgia’s chief elections official was struck by gunfire during a shootout early Thursday morning. But a preliminary police investigation concluded the shooting was not politically motivated.
Robert Sinners, communications director for Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, and his fiancee, CBS News Atlanta reporter Madeline Montgomery, awoke shortly after midnight to the sound of gunfire outside their southwest Atlanta home.
“The fact that political violence has to be considered is a sobering reminder of where we are,” Sinners said. “We have no indication that’s what occurred, but we’ll see how the investigation unfolds.”
Sinners said the home was struck by roughly 30 bullets.
Atlanta police declined to comment. A police report said witnesses saw two men shooting at each other. Two men were arrested after a brief chase. No injuries were reported. The suspects face multiple charges.
Raffensperger, his family and members of his staff have faced threats since they rejected false claims that President Donald Trump won Georgia in 2020 and resisted his push to reverse the election results.
“Acts of violence have no place in our society, and I think it’s imperative that anyone in leadership takes the temperature down,” Sinners said. “We shouldn’t even be thinking of political violence as a possibility.”
Snakes. Hancock County public schools were closed this week due to snakes, according to 13WMAZ.
Schools across the district closed for the rest of the week after snakes were spotted on campus, including one inside a building.
“We had seen a couple of snakes. So, we started checking the outside perimeter, making sure that the students were actually safe and after that, we saw one on the inside,” Interim Superintendent Latrasha Palmer said.
Palmer, who is in her first year leading the district, after nine years with Hancock County Schools, said the decision followed days of increasing concern. Staff first spotted black snakes on the perimeter Monday and were not initially alarmed, since black snakes aren’t venomous.
But, when a brown snake turned up Tuesday, Palmer said the district treated it as a possible warning sign, and testing later confirmed it was venomous.
“I wanted to just do a sweep of the entire campus, just everything, because we’re in a rural setting. Our buildings are 30 to 40 years old,” Palmer said.
With the old buildings and rural land where nearby tree clearing has pushed wildlife to look for new habitat, Palmer said she wasn’t willing to take chances heading into her first year on the job.
Rather than wait, Palmer and the Hancock County Board of Education opted to bring in outside help and pause classes altogether.
“I made a judgment call along with the board to ensure that we get a licensed professional in to do an analysis of the entire school, all schools, the perimeters outside,” Palmer said.
A wildlife specialist was expected on campus Thursday to inspect all three district buildings, not just the ones where snakes were spotted. Palmer said the district’s facilities director had already cleared the exterior grounds of any signs of snakes or other wildlife as of Wednesday.
Going forward, Palmer said the checks won’t stop once campus reopens. The district plans to bring in wildlife specialists monthly to keep monitoring the buildings.
“With life, there’s no guarantee. However, once they do that check, we are going to develop a plan with them every month to do a check,” Palmer said. “This is not a one-time deal, we’re gonna get reports monthly to ensure that we don’t see anything that can impede the safety of our students.”
Hancock County Schools are expected to reopen Aug. 10, pending the results of Thursday’s inspection.
The rescue took place last week on the Mackay and Hampton rivers off St. Simons Island and Brunswick. The incident marked the first documented manatee entanglement in Georgia, according to the announcement.
Manatees are federally protected marine mammals that migrate from Florida to Georgia and the Carolinas each spring into early fall to feed on marsh plants and algae.
The rescue began when Capt. Davis Galland, a fishing guide from St. Simons, reported seeing a manatee tangled in crab trap lines on July 29. The adult female had a crab pot line and buoy wrapped tightly around her body, just behind the head and around her right pectoral flipper, according to Jessica Thompson, senior wildlife biologist with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Marine Mammal Program.
DNR responded quickly, attaching a satellite tracking tag and cutting away the anchoring crab trap before a storm forced the crew and Galland off the water, according to the announcement.
The next day, a team from multiple agencies, including the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Savannah State University Dolphin Sciences Lab, managed to completely free the manatee.
The team worked through alternatives, keeping the safety of the animals and staff in mind. By early afternoon, members had removed the buoy and remaining line, which was beginning to cut into the manatee’s skin, according to the announcement.
McIntosh County Commissioners passed a new zoning ordinance for the Hog Hammock area of Sapelo Island, according to WSAV.
McIntosh County Commissioners approved a zoning ordinance to increase the home size on Hog Hammock by 150 square feet.
Tuesday, McIntosh County Planning and Zoning unanimously recommend a zoning ordinance to allow home sizes of 1,550 square feet. Two days later, county commissioners called for a special called meeting to vote on the recommendation.
The zoning ordinance will allow Hog Hammock homes to be built up to 1,550 square feet “under roof” with an addition 400 square feet porch, along with a building height of 32 feet.
The previous building cap was at 1,400 square feet.
Sapelo Island is home to the last remaining Gullah Geechee community on a Georgia barrier island. Those who spoke out said it is a culture and way of life they will fight to preserve.
“People are just trying to steal out land and figure out how to eradicate this culture,” A resident said. “That’s what going to happen even with 1,550.”
County commissioners said the previous 1,400 square foot zoning limit was not enforceable and needed to be changed.
“That is the most enforceable way that we can deal with these people breaking these codes without having to go in with a search warrant,” a commissioner said.
A vote was made after a long moment of silence and multiple questions about legality. The commissioners voted to approve the recommendation 3-1.
Police blotter: Georgia State Senate candidate Tracy Wheeler was arrested, according to 13WMAZ.
Deputies arrested a candidate running for Georgia’s State Senate on aggravated assault charges after she was accused in court filings of pointing a gun at the co-owner of her restaurant Amigos Cove.
According to Chief Investigator T.S. Resha, the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office arrested Tracy Wheeler and her husband, Troy Wheeler, on Wednesday. He says the charges stem from assaults at the Amigos Cove Restaurant back in July and June.
According to court filings, Wheeler allegedly pointed a firearm at her co-owner, Rodrico Saenz Martinez, and another restaurant employee during a dispute over a broken air conditioning unit.
Wheeler denied the accusation in a court filing responding to Martinez’s claims.
Wheeler is currently running for State Senate District 26, after winning the Republican primary on May 19, according to the Georgia Secretary of State’s website.
The court filings say that Martinez is a co-owner of Amigos Cove, which is a restaurant that Wheeler also has an ownership stake in. The restaurant building at 3997 Lake Sinclair Drive is owned by a company formed by Wheeler, court records say.
The court filings from Martinez, which were filed in Hancock County Superior Court’s civil division, claim that the dispute between Wheeler stems from a broken A/C unit and the efforts to fix the unit.
Clerk of Superior Court Leshauna Jackson says Wheeler appeared in court on Wednesday for a hearing in the civil case.
Martinez is asking for a temporary restraining order, but the judge has not issued a ruling yet, Jackson said.
She says the arrest was separate from the civil case.
Wheeler had previously run for Georgia House District 128 back in 2024, losing to democrat Mack Jackson. At the time, she filed a lawsuit, trying to get the results overturned, but a judge rejected her claims.
Wheeler is facing incumbent Georgia State Senator David Lucas for Georgia State Senate District 26. That district includes parts of Bibb, Houston and all of Hancock, Twiggs, Washington and Wilkinson counties.
The approval of the CAT tax rate, levied in the county and cities receiving CAT fixed-route services, formally solidifies the agency’s $42 million budget approved in late June. While the approval secured CAT’s fiscal year funding, it did not end the tensions between the two groups.
Commissioners approved a resolution alongside the millage levy that outlined several demands of CAT before next year’s funding cycle. District 7 Commissioner and Chairman Pro Tempore Dean Kicklighter said if CAT did not meet the demands, it could face significant cuts in next year’s budget cycle.
“The County Commission took action this past Friday to ensure accountability,” Kicklighter said in a press conference Monday.
Specific requests in the resolution include CAT conduct a forensic financial audit, by a county-selected third party; restore previous route cuts; not implement any additional route cuts; and renegotiate funding contracts for the ferries and DOT Shuttle.
Meet Marty. Marty is an adorable 4–5 month old pup with a big personality packed into a little body! This happy boy came to us as a surrender and has quickly stolen hearts with his playful, loving nature.
Marty is full of energy and joy. He loves to play, bounce around, and his favorite thing might just be jumping up into your arms for a catch—he thinks it’s the best game ever! He is already doing well with kenneling and leash walking, and he’s currently working on his house training. Like most puppies, he’s still learning, so he’ll need a patient family to help guide him.
Meet Syrus. Syrus is a sweet, loving 1-year-old boy who is ready to find a family to call his own. With his gentle personality and affectionate nature, he’s the kind of dog who just wants to be close to his people and soak up all the love he can get.
Syrus is still learning and growing. He’s currently working on his leash skills and will do best with a patient family who is willing to continue his training and help him build confidence. With consistency, love, and a little guidance, Syrus is sure to blossom into an amazing companion. He is a wonderful boy with so much potential, just waiting for the right person to help him shine.
Very friendly, can be a bit shy at first. Sibling to Otis. More laid-back of the two siblings, but still a puppy who will need consistency and training. Good with other dogs.
7 months old. Sibling to Debbie. Seems to be dog friendly with those he’s been introduced to. High energy but will make a great family pet with some structure and patience. —– All animals are spayed/neutered and given initial vaccines before leaving our facility. Many of our adoptable pets are stray animals who we have limited information on. For questions, please call 912-754-2109 or send an inquiry. No appointment needed to meet the pets, just come in any time during operational hours! Meet and greets with current household pets are encouraged.
You might win some votes like this, but I cannot recommend or condone it: a Congressional candidate in Tennessee admitted shooting out license plate readers, according to 13WMAZ.
Officials with the Maryville Police Department and the Blount County Sheriff’s Office in Tennessee said a U.S. congressional candidate has been charged with shooting at multiple automatic license plate readers in Blount County.
They said Adam Lee Heimerman, 37, of Lenoir City, was served with warrants for four counts of felony vandalism and arrested.
Officials said they first discovered the damage to the ALPRs on July 25, prompting both agencies to work together to investigate the vandalism. After his arrest, investigators said Heimerman admitted he “used a gun” to shoot four ALPR systems between July 14 and July 22. Officials said three of these camera systems were in Blount County and one was in Maryville. Blount County is south of Knoxville, in East Tennessee.
The cameras, commonly referred to as Flock cameras, automatically capture license plates of passing vehicles.
Heimerman is also currently running as an Independent for Tennessee’s 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House.
Officials added that evidence shows Heimerman accessed one of the systems in Blount County from the “property of a house of worship” while people were attending church services.
The use of ALPR cameras remains a hot topic in the public sphere and among public officials.
Recently, the Knox County mayor and a county commissioner expressed concerns about using the technology and called for more regulation of its use. Days later, the Knoxville police chief shared his defense of the cameras, with an explanation about how his police force uses them in investigations.
Flock Safety, an Atlanta-based public safety technology company, develops the cameras used in communities across the country.
When a vehicle passes a camera, the system captures an image and converts details about the vehicle into searchable data.
Law enforcement agencies can then use that information during investigations, such as locating stolen vehicles or identifying vehicles connected to reported crimes.
Flock says the cameras are designed to focus on vehicles involved in incidents and do not use facial recognition technology, according to Business Insider.
The company also says vehicle records are automatically deleted after 30 days by default, though customers can adjust retention settings based on contracts and local regulations.
Flock Safety was founded in Atlanta in 2017 and has grown into one of the largest providers of license plate reader technology in the country.
Across Georgia, communities have adopted the technology as a way to help investigators gather information after crimes are reported.
While law enforcement agencies say Flock cameras can help solve crimes, privacy advocates have raised concerns about how much information is collected and how the data can be used.
Critics argue that because the cameras capture vehicles that are not suspected of wrongdoing, they create a large database of people’s movements.
Civil liberties groups, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation and the American Civil Liberties Union, have questioned whether widespread networks of license plate readers could be used to track people’s travel patterns.
Flock Safety has pushed back on those concerns, saying the cameras are not designed to track individuals and that customers control how data is accessed and shared.
