PHOTOS: SWGA United Way “Day of Caring”

On July 7, the Albany City Commission unanimously approved final construction drawings for a comprehensive restoration of the Ritz Theatre and Cultural Center, clearing the way for the project to move into competitive bidding after years of planning and preservation efforts. The decision marks the latest chapter in a decades-long effort to preserve one of Southwest Georgia’s most significant African American landmarks.

“There have been other sites discussed. Based on information (from) the community, we decided on the current site. That’s the only site we’re looking at right now.”

“I would like to open, like, a Caribbean/tropical buffet where everybody can eat anything and everything. If I can’t do that, I would start small with a coffee shop (and) deli and keep going.”