Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office to expand summer youth program
“This program is free. This is the only free summer program in Dougherty County and Albany. That is possible because of you.”
“This program is free. This is the only free summer program in Dougherty County and Albany. That is possible because of you.”
The pending closure of Harold’s Chicken — the latest in a string of recent shutdowns — is prompting renewed scrutiny of how and why food businesses struggle to survive in Dougherty County.
At Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy, a specialized charter school serving students in grades 9–12 across Dougherty, Terrell, Baker and Calhoun counties, agriculture isn’t rooted in generational farmland. Instead, with the help of technological advancements in hydroponics, it is growing inside an expansive greenhouse — and making its way onto lunch trays across the district.
Officials say the latest expansion responds directly to workforce needs, particularly the growing demand for qualified teachers. While investments in technology and STEM fields continue to increase, education leaders say persistent challenges — including stagnant salaries and professional burnout — have contributed to ongoing teacher shortages.
Set against a region where economic conditions can vary dramatically within just a few miles, the “Harvest on Walnut” Farmer’s Market could offer a small but meaningful step toward bridging those gaps. By creating a direct pipeline between local producers and consumers, the market keeps more dollars circulating within the community while lowering barriers for small-scale entrepreneurs to generate income.
For many in southwest Georgia, Panama City Beach, Fla. — about a four-hour drive from Albany — has long been a go-to spring break destination.
Albany Area Primary Health Care Inc. and the Sowega Council on Aging have each been awarded $75,000 as part of the 2025 CareSource Foundation Grant Challenge.
"It was quite the year, quite the introduction to southwest Georgia."
The Saving Grace Kidney Foundation works to educate, support and advocate for dialysis and post-transplant patients. The organization provides education and support for patients undergoing dialysis or living after a transplant, including workshops, informational materials and one-on-one mentoring to help patients understand dialysis and explore transplant options.
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