Savannah News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Georgia’s tackling its looming doctor shortage head-on by launching a new medical school in Savannah, part of a bold plan to train and retain physicians right where they’re needed most. With over 8,000 doctors projected to be short by 2030—especially in rural areas—the state is betting on local talent: students will train, intern, and begin practicing in the Coastal Empire as early as July 2027. Backed by data showing 70% of residency-trained doctors stay home, this move—powered by partnerships with St. Joseph’s Candler and the Medical College of Georgia—is designed to keep top pre-med students in-state. The University...

A jury just convicted 22-year-old Nathaniel Lewis of all charges in the fatal March 2025 shooting of 41-year-old Benny Wright — including malice murder and felony murder. The argument that turned deadly occurred on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, with surveillance capturing the confrontation before gunfire erupted. Lewis claimed self-defense but failed to sway the jury. Complicating matters: Lewis was already out on bond for prior firearm charges, despite prosecutors’ objections. Now, he faces a possible life sentence with or without parole in August’s sentencing hearing.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipi...

One measles outbreak in New Mexico cost nearly $5.4 million—$53,000 per confirmed case and $1,800 per exposed person—highlighting the staggering financial toll of outbreaks driven by vaccine misinformation. With over 2,300 U.S. cases this year—the highest since 1991—health officials, including HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., are urgently calling for vaccination to curb costs and prevent deadly, expensive spread.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Repor...

Judge Timothy Walmsley, who presided over the high-profile Ahmaud Arbery murder trial, is stepping down from his bench in Georgia’s Eastern Judicial Circuit, with his last day set for September 1, 2026. In a letter to Governor Brian Kemp, Walmsley called his service — especially in Chatham County — a profound honor and expressed deep gratitude for the public trust placed in him. His announcement, while not immediate, signals the end of an era for the circuit, as he leaves behind a legacy shaped by one of the nation’s most scrutinized criminal trials. A vacancy will soon need filling, marking a pivotal...

A commercial jet took off as Marine One approached Reagan National Airport, triggering an FAA investigation after a “momentary loss of separation” — though no danger to the President was ever confirmed. With strict safety protocols in place since last year’s deadly midair crash, this near-miss has reignited calls for aviation reform, especially from victims’ families demanding stronger safeguards in busy airspace.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public...

Love is Blind is back in Georgia, searching for singles ready to find love without ever seeing each other—just like the wild 2020 Atlanta season that proved love can be blind… and last. Only two of the six couples from Season 1 married, but Lauren & Cameron and Amber & Matt are still thriving eight years later, raising kids together and proving that sometimes, true connection survives the pods.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high...

Memorial Health in Savannah just confirmed a rare human case of West Nile Virus — while mosquito positives are rising, this is the first person confirmed infected this season. Dr. Connelly, who treated the patient, will break down symptoms, risks, and crucial prevention tips later today. Stay tuned for updates from Georgia’s health department as summer heats up.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Repo...

Beaufort Fire Forces Hospitalizations | Savannah News

Step back in time with the Massie Heritage Center in Savannah, hunting for former students, teachers, and families to celebrate the historic 1856 school’s legacy—Georgia’s first public school. Hollywood producer Stratton Leopold, Friends of Massie president Gale Steves, and curator Steven Smith are rallying the community to share stories, photos, and memorabilia ahead of this fall’s big anniversary. The original school building on Taylor Square still stands as a preserved time capsule—don’t miss your chance to be part of history. Contact curator Steven Smith at 912-395-5070.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount o...

West Nile virus confirmed in a Memorial Health patient — officials say human cases are rare, but warmer weather means heightened caution. Use repellent, eliminate standing water, and stay tuned for more details from the hospital’s attending physician later this week.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/139e9a9...

Keisha Lance Bottoms unleashes her first attack ad on Rick Jackson, painting him not as the outsider he claims to be—but a Trump-connected insider, leveraging GOP ties to win votes. While Jackson, a healthcare CEO with no elected experience, touts his business savvy and even calls himself “Trump’s favorite governor,” Bottoms zeroes in on his pro-Trump donations and statements, questioning his authenticity. Her campaign pivots on Georgia’s broken healthcare system—rural hospital closures, ER overuse—resonating powerfully with older voters, who are highly motivated and prioritize affordability. Jackson counters with a business-focused approach on drug prices and staffing s...

Get ready to sparkle under the lights at December Nights & Holiday Lights, returning Nov 27–Dec 24 at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens. This festive tradition transforms the gardens into a dazzling winter wonderland while funding new plants, education, and upkeep—all from ticket sales. Powered by the dedicated Friends of the Coastal Gardens, who’ve invested over $13 million to keep this local treasure thriving, it’s your chance to celebrate the holidays and support a beloved community gem. Sponsor, donate, or learn more via their website, phone, or email.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pil...

College admissions are shifting as UGA and Georgia Tech ditch one supplemental essay, saying the main personal essay suffices — all to ease stress, not boost admissions. Meanwhile, Florida’s Classic Learning Test is being repurposed for high school graduation, highlighting how the landscape keeps evolving.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
http...

Chrysler’s recalling over 1.2 million Ram 1500 trucks from 2019 to 2026 due to improperly installed second-row seat belt anchors that fail federal safety standards—your dealer will fix it free of charge, so watch for the NHTSA notice arriving August 18th and check your VIN on nhtsa.gov to see if you’re affected.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

...

George R.R. Martin finally broke his silence, revealing a year of wild highs and crushing lows—dreams achieved, friends lost, sadness battled—and turning 77 brought its own challenges. Despite unfinished books and HBO’s show ending before his novels, fans remain loyal as spin-offs like “House of the Dragon” and “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” keep the universe alive—with the latter earning nine Emmy nods. Martin hopes to attend the Emmys in September, promises more frequent updates, and reminds us life’s a messy, beautiful mix.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: htt...

Tragic discovery in Spartanburg County: skeletal remains found near Wilson Drive have been confirmed as 39-year-old Tamara Nichole Evans, last seen leaving a home on Melvin Hill Road on June 26. An anthropology exam is underway to uncover more about her final moments, as authorities continue their active investigation into her disappearance and death. Official cause and manner remain pending, with updates expected as evidence emerges.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level...

Activists on Vancouver Island are risking arrest and personal sacrifice to protect ancient old-growth forests—some trees over a thousand years old—that store massive amounts of carbon and hold deep cultural value. Despite temporary wins like the Fairy Creek blockades, logging continues elsewhere as provincial protections expire and government pushes for increased timber harvests. The conflict, echoing decades-old protests like the “War in the Woods,” pits environmental preservation against economic interests, especially within Indigenous communities grappling with how to balance tradition, ecology, and development. With these forests irreplaceable and recovery taking millennia, the fight is not just about trees—it...

Georgia could be ditching the twice-yearly clock changes thanks to the Sunshine Protection Act, aiming for permanent daylight saving time — a move that might brighten evenings but sparks debate over health and sleep. While several states have explored similar bills, federal approval is still needed for nationwide effect. Supporters tout economic gains and more evening light, while critics warn of disrupted routines and health risks. The bill’s fate rests in Georgia’s legislature, with potential implementation as early as next year — keeping everyone’s clocks on edge.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillo...

This year’s Tunnel to Towers 5K in Bluffton is bigger than ever—marking both the event’s 6th anniversary and the 25th anniversary of 9/11. With over 1,500 runners last year and a goal of 2,500 this time, it’s not just a race—it’s a fundraiser raising critical support for first responders and veterans through the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Proceeds help provide mortgage-free homes to injured heroes and honor fallen ones. Plus, it’s tied to the Beaufort County Food Drive and celebrates the Hilton Head Firefighters Association. Whether you run, walk, donate, or volunteer, your participation honors those who’ve s...

Duke Buckner, a Lowcountry native with a diverse public service background, is launching his bid for South Carolina’s open Senate seat in the Republican primary. From teaching to running a newspaper and serving on city council, Buckner brings a grassroots, locally rooted campaign focused on freedom, accountability, housing, and economic growth. With a crowded field and a statewide challenge ahead, he’ll need to turn his track record into statewide momentum before August 11 — and possibly face a runoff if no one hits 50%.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discou...

Congressman Russell Fry is officially running for South Carolina’s open U.S. Senate seat, positioning himself as a conservative, MAGA-aligned candidate focused on everyday issues like gas prices and groceries. With his congressional experience and strong base in northeastern South Carolina, Fry faces the challenge of expanding his appeal statewide to win the Republican primary—and ultimately, the November general election against Democratic nominee Dr. Annie Andrews. This race could reshape South Carolina’s political landscape.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:

Georgia Democrats packed Savannah for a high-energy state convention, rallying over 1,200 activists, candidates, and officials to strategize for upcoming elections. The event opened with a heartfelt tribute to late Rep. David Scott, then featured fiery speeches from party leaders and top contenders like Sanford Bishop and Lucy McBath. Later, delegates tackled organizational details in the State Committee meeting, fine-tuning bylaws to strengthen the party’s engine. With momentum building, Chair Charlie Bailey closed the convention — setting the stage for a powerful political push ahead.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com...

The Justice Department just dropped a major finding that UCLA’s medical school illegally used race in admissions — but not before revealing damning data: Black and Hispanic students admitted in 2023-24 had lower GPAs and test scores than white and Asian applicants, sparking accusations of reverse discrimination. The department claims the school prioritized diversity over merit, even altering its application to ask students if they belonged to a marginalized group — a move critics say undermines fairness. UCLA insists it’s merit-based and is reviewing the findings, facing pressure to either reach a voluntary agreement or risk losing federal funding and lega...

Three teens busted at a Sam’s Club in Bluffton with weapons—including a modified machine gun, a pistol, and a .22 rifle—now face serious charges and are headed to juvenile justice. Authorities urge the public to report suspicious activity, reminding everyone that safety starts with speaking up—even in everyday places like a grocery store.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedb...

Haitians in the U.S. face terrifying uncertainty as Trump’s TPS termination leaves 350,000 in legal limbo—forced to choose between deportation or returning to Haiti’s violence and poverty. Communities like Salisbury, Maryland, are shattered: churches emptied, events canceled, classes halted, as fear grips families who came to work, not disrupt. Pastor Roosevelt Toussaint pleads for compassion, calling the return a death sentence. Immigration officials now use ankle monitors and threats of self-deportation, while the Supreme Court’s ruling adds chaos—work permits revoked, arrests during grocery runs, and lives upended by fear.

Listen in comfort:
Get a d...

Athens is heating up as Georgia’s political epicenter for the 2026 midterms, with top contenders like Governor Brian Kemp and Senate hopeful Mike Collins gathering momentum. The governor’s race takes center stage as Rick Jackson and Keisha Lance Bottoms prepare for their first face-off since winning primaries — a showdown set to unfold in a Gray Media-hosted town hall. Meanwhile, the Senate battle between Republican Mike Collins and incumbent Jon Ossoff looms as one of the nation’s most watched races. A major congressional panel, led by former Rep. Drew Ferguson, will spotlight candidates vying for key districts, including Dr. Jasm...

Georgia voters, mark your calendars—Senator John Ossoff and Rep. Mike Collins are going head-to-head in a live, hour-long debate on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 7 PM ET. Moderated by Atlanta News First’s Rick Folbaum and featuring a panel of journalists, the debate will air live on WTOC and all Gray Media stations across the state, plus stream digitally. With a 30-minute pre-show and post-debate analysis, this is your chance to see the full picture on the issues that matter. Don’t miss it—this statewide showdown is designed to reach every corner of Georgia.

Listen in comfort:
Get a...

Tragic Loss of Deputy Jillian Olson | Savannah News

First Lt. Tyler James Feehan, 25, died heroically in action during an attack on a U.S. air base in Jordan, his sacrifice remembered by family and nation as he saved lives doing what he loved. His fiancé, mother, and loved ones honor his legacy — not just through military honors and public tributes, but through the countless lives he improved as a leader, friend, and devoted fan of Atlanta sports. The community is invited to line the route for his funeral procession Friday morning, ensuring his final journey is marked by the respect he so richly earned.

Listen in...

Georgia Ports Authority is executing a smooth, year-long leadership transition as Kevin Price takes the helm as President on July 1, while outgoing CEO Griff Lynch stays on board until August to ensure continuity. With over 30 years of East Coast port experience, including time in Savannah, Price is already meeting teams and planning customer visits to build relationships. The strategy mirrors GPA’s long-term focus: maintaining elite operational momentum by letting Price gradually assume responsibilities while Lynch tapers out — all designed to keep the massive trade engine running seamlessly without disruption.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a...

A shocking murder in Savannah leaves a man with nine stab wounds, his stepfather Frank Scott now arrested and charged with the killing. The drama unfolded after police responded to a disorderly conduct call — only to find Cawley bleeding on the floor, with his mother claiming her husband saved her from her son’s attack. Scott insists he didn’t stab him, saying Cawley was drunk and violent — but the knife was found in the bedroom, unexplained. With autopsy results pending, the case spirals into mystery as Scott faces court and the community watches closely.

Listen in comfort...

Burton and Sheldon Fire Districts just completed intense rural firefighting training, mastering the art of setting up mobile water supplies in areas where hydrants are scarce—using pools, ponds, or distant hydrants as sources. Over three days and 15 hours, crews practiced drafting water, maintaining pressure, and coordinating with new drivers, all to ensure rapid, effective response in remote northern Beaufort County. With automatic aid agreements in place, teamwork is key to protecting communities without traditional fire infrastructure.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DN...

Chick-fil-A’s rolling out three new caramel coffee drinks nationwide — Caramel Cream Cold Brew, Caramel Frosted Coffee, and Caramel Iced Coffee — to sweeten your morning routine, whether you prefer it cold, blended, or over ice. Available at every location, this move taps into the back-to-school coffee rush and celebrates the brand’s Georgia roots with a home-state flavor twist.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Repor...

Bulloch County’s data center pause remains in place as commissioners deadlock on a defining amendment, delaying any decision until next month—despite chairman David Bennett softening his stance and suggesting data centers may not be as risky as feared. The temporary ban stays, but with more research ahead, the county could soon reconsider its position—though a major project in Statesboro will proceed unaffected by county rules.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an aut...

A major data center project in Statesboro is moving ahead after the Planning Commission gave it the green light, despite community pushback. Residents fear the facility will strain local water and power resources—especially amid ongoing drought—and worry about property values and noise. Developers argue the impact will be minimal, but many feel their concerns were sidelined. The final decision now rests with the City Council, who’ll vote August eighteenth.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

...

Four Republican Senate candidates in South Carolina — Ralph Norman, Russell Fry, Mark Sanford, and Mark Lynch — clashed in a heated Charleston debate as the primary nears, with Darline Graham absent due to D.C. duties. Tariffs dominated early discussion: Norman pushed for trade reciprocity, while Sanford warned against jeopardizing South Carolina’s foreign investment. On Iran, Norman backed the president’s military strategy, Lynch called for troop withdrawal, and Fry echoed concerns over nuclear proliferation. Surprisingly, all four agreed on key priorities: ending the filibuster, blocking foreign asset purchases, regulating AI, and securing Social Security — with Sanford proposing individual ownership...

Effingham County’s heated debate over the OpenAI data center, “Project Camellia,” has escalated to safety threats against staff—prompting commissioners to clarify their limited role in negotiations, approve zoning tweaks for clarity, and issue a security directive urging employees to report threats immediately while preparing a public forum for community input.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

...

Governor Brian Kemp has tapped Catherine A. Sumner, Bulloch County’s former Solicitor-General and seasoned prosecutor, to lead as the new District Attorney for the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit — a role now filled after the passing of Robert Busbee. With experience handling major felony cases and collaborating with state law enforcement, Sumner brings deep local insight to the job. She’s also proven her commitment to community through roles in violence prevention and emergency response, plus leadership as president of the Bulloch County Bar Association. Now overseeing four counties — Bulloch, Effingham, Jenkins, and Screven — Sumner is poised to deliver steady, experience...

Trump’s approval plummets to a historic low at 40% on his 100th day in office, sparking behind-the-scenes budget battles over the border wall — a top priority for him but a political liability — as he heads to Pennsylvania to rally support amid looming government shutdown risks and unfulfilled campaign promises.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View source...

Four Republicans clashed in South Carolina’s Senate primary debate, each offering sharp takes on the economy, Social Security, foreign policy, and immigration — all while warning against Washington’s ballooning debt and overreach. Ralph Norman, Russell Fry, Mark Sanford, and Mark Lynch sparred over spending, tariffs, and troop deployments, with Sanford cautioning about trade dependence, Fry focusing on family economics, and Lynch calling for less overseas involvement. On Social Security, they agreed it’s broken but blamed different culprits — from systemic waste to federal overreach. Immigration united them: all backed E-Verify and employer accountability. AI sparked cautious support for guardrails...