Area News

Community members and local officials gathered 0n April 16 for a special Board of Commissioners meeting marking the dedication and grand opening of the new Georgia Bend Fire Station. The ceremony began with a warm welcome and introduction from Interim County Administrator Becky Harden, followed by remarks from County Commissioner Alphya Benefield, who expressed appreciation…

After more than a decade without a local hospital, a major step toward revitalization and renewed opportunity was taken Tuesday evening as The Charlton County Hospital Authority approved a proposal that could reshape both the historic hospital site and the county’s future. During a called meeting held at 6 p.m. on March 31, The Authority…

Over the past few months, residents and visitors may have noticed several exciting improvements taking place throughout the City of Folkston. From updates at the popular Folkston Funnel Platform – including renovated bathrooms expected to be completed later this year – to the removal of trees with overgrown roots, the city has been steadily working…

A significant law enforcement presence surrounded Jimmy’s Pawn Shop on U.S. Highway 1 in Folkston on Sunday, March 29, as officers and investigators remained on the scene for much of the day.     According to neighbors in the area, officers with the Folkston Police Department arrived at approximately 10:00 a.m., quickly filling the area…

The 5th Annual Ag Day, hosted by Charlton County 4-H, brought the community together Friday evening at the Charlton County High School Ag Barn for a lively celebration of agriculture and local tradition. Held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on March 20, 2026, the event attracted families, students, and residents from across the area,…

A 25-year veteran of the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has been recognized at the state capitol for earning the agency’s highest honor. Roger Todd, a native of Folkston, Georgia, received the 2025 GFC Director’s Award for his leadership as chief ranger in Charlton County and for his quick response to a local plane crash. State…

  Youth and mobility-impaired hunters get an early start to turkey season on March 21-22, 2026. This special opportunity gives youth and mobility-impaired hunters a chance to harvest a gobbler on private lands before the statewide turkey season opens, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.    This early weekend hunt…

Community members gathered at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 13, to celebrate the re-grand opening of Anytime Fitness in Folkston following recent renovations to the facility. The event, held at the gym’s location at 3658 S. Second St., was organized in partnership with the Charlton County Okefenokee Chamber of Commerce and welcomed residents to tour…

    The Charlton County Okefenokee Chamber of Commerce proudly attended the 2026 Okefenokee Day at the Capitol and Georgia Chamber Rural Day at the Capitol to champion rural Georgia and promote the economic impact of the Okefenokee region. Attendees engaged with members of the Georgia General Assembly’s Rural Caucus and heard insights from state…