Press Releases
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Atlanta Gas Light
Media Line: 855-AGL-NEWS
Ashley Hoffman, ahoffman@southernco.com
Atlanta Gas Light joins Georgia 811 Damage Prevention Summit to advance safe digging across Georgia
On National 811 Day, Atlanta Gas Light encourages contractors, excavators and homeowners to help prevent utility damage: contact 811 before digging
Atlanta, GA. – August 7, 2026 – Atlanta Gas Light is joining Georgia 811, utility operators, contractors and others at the GA811 Damage Prevention Summit on August 11, or “8/11,” to reinforce the importance of safe excavation practices and protecting critical underground infrastructure.
Held on 811 Day, a national observance dedicated to promoting safe digging awareness, the summit highlights the shared responsibility of preventing damage to underground infrastructure and reinforcing the importance of contacting 811 before any digging project. The GA811 Damage Prevention Summit provides an opportunity for industry professionals to share best practices, discuss emerging challenges and strengthen partnerships that enhance damage prevention efforts statewide.
As a key supporter of the summit, Atlanta Gas Light is helping drive industry-wide efforts to advance damage prevention education, improve excavation safety and protect the communities it serves.
Every year, thousands of incidents occur where underground infrastructure is damaged by individuals or companies who begin an excavation project without having the buried facilities properly located. Striking underground natural gas pipelines puts those digging at risk of injury or death, can lead to costly fines and repairs, and subjects their communities to safety risk and potentially lengthy and widespread utility service disruptions.
Whether planting a tree, installing a mailbox, building a deck or managing a commercial construction project, anyone planning to dig should contact 811 at least three business days before work begins. The service is free, and utility operators will mark the approximate location of underground lines to help excavators work safely.
Atlanta Gas Light encourages homeowners and contractors to dig with C.A.R.E. by following these safe digging guidelines:
- Call or Click Before You Dig: Before starting any outdoor digging project, customers should call 811 or visit Georgia 811 at least three days in advance to request to have underground utility lines marked. Requests can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The service is free.
- Allow the Required Time for Marking: After contacting Georgia 811, wait for underground utility lines to be marked before digging (approximately three working days). Locators will mark the approximate location of buried lines with color-coded spray paint, flags or stakes corresponding to the utility. The color used for natural gas is yellow.
- Respect the Marks: Make sure the marks remain visible during the project. If the lines or flags are damaged or removed, customers are encouraged to contact Georgia 811 to have the lines remarked.
- Excavate Carefully: Only use hand-digging tools when digging near the location markers. This will help avoid potential damage to underground utility lines.
If a natural gas line is accidentally damaged or the distinctive rotten-egg odor associated with natural gas is present, call 911 or the Atlanta Gas Light 24-hour emergency phone line at 1-877-427-4321 from a safe location. Do not operate any machinery or equipment that might cause a spark or create an open flame.
Atlanta Gas Light continues to work closely with excavators, municipalities, and industry partners throughout Georgia to promote safe digging practices and reduce damage to underground infrastructure. Through education, outreach and collaboration, the company remains committed to helping ensure that communities remain safe while supporting responsible growth across the state.
For more information visit AtlantaGasLight.com/Call811 or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.
About Atlanta Gas Light: Atlanta Gas Light is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Atlanta Gas Light provides natural gas delivery service to approximately 1.8 million customers in Georgia. In operation since 1856, the company is one of the oldest corporations in the state. For more information, visit AtlantaGasLight.com.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Cassie Ann Kiggen
706-542-6190
cakiggen@uga.edu
2026 UGA CAES Almanac is now available!
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is very pleased to share with you the latest volume of its annual magazine, the CAES Almanac.
You can find the digital edition here: 2026 CAES Almanac
This issue celebrates the people, research and programs advancing agriculture, strengthening communities and improving lives across Georgia and beyond.
We are proud to share these stories of innovation and impact from across CAES and UGA Cooperative Extension!
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan
912-988-1847
dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org
Mighty Talk | A Fortress and a Legacy presented by J. Ross Greene
Thursday, August 20th at 11:00 am at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s monthly Mighty Talk series continue with A Fortress and a Legacy, presented by J. Ross Geene. This program will take place on August 20th at 11:00 am at the museum.
The program is free to the public, but please register at https://forms.gle/CkGJ5Y7RLhsThypf6
Optional Lunch: Join us for an optional lunch afterwards. $10/12 cash/credit for members or $15/17cash/credit for non-members.
About the Book
A Fortress and a Legacy combine stunning historical accuracy with the pathos of a family torn by war. An exchange of letters between Knoxville native and B-17 bombardier Bud Perrin and his bride, a former Miss America contestant, gives this story heart and soul.
The book captivates readers with its portrayal of the cross-current of personal relationships set against the background of enlistment, training, and execution of bombing missions over continental Europe.
About the Author
J. Ross Greene’s passion for World War II and determination to share his uncle’s inspiring story led to the extensive research required to write this book. With a background in engineering, he founded a financial consulting firm, beginning his now more than forty-year investment career.
A Fortress and a Legacy represents his gift not only to his cousin—the daughter his uncle never knew— but to all those who share his appreciation for those who sacrificed for the cause of freedom.
Ross and his wife Lynne, who have three children and eight grandchildren, make their home near Atlanta, Georgia.
About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:
The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.
Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.
The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers
706-542-4274
jpowers@uga.edu
The 2026 Almanac from the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is now live
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is thrilled to share the fifth volume of its award-winning annual magazine, the Almanac.
2026 Almanac: Science in service of humanity and the environment.
Almanac is published annually for alumni, friends and supporters of CAES by the Office of the Dean and Director. It is produced by the Office of Marketing and Communications.
Stories may be republished by media outlets in part or in full. Media kits are included at the end of each immersive story. Please reach out to CAES PR Manager Jordan Powers with questions or interview requests.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: CAF Airbase Georgia
Steve Forsyth
770-714-7750
sforsyth106@gmail.com
CAF Airbase Georgia to Launch 2026 Georgia Barnstorming Tour
Stops in Toccoa, Augusta, Atlanta, Athens, Macon and Gainesville
PEACHTREE CITY, GA. (Aug. 5, 2026) – Opportunities to fly in restored WWII aircraft will be offered at seven Georgia airports August through November when Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Georgia launches its 2026 Georgia Barnstorming Tour. Several aircraft in the Airbase Georgia fleet will travel to Toccoa, Augusta, Atlanta, Macon, Athens and Gainesville, wrapping up the tour at home in Peachtree City, to offer aviation fans an experience of a lifetime. Rides can be scheduled in advance at www:airbasegeorgia.org.
The tour will begin in Toccoa on Aug. 15 at Toccoa Airport – R.G. Letourneau Field, where the Airbase will bring its PT-19 for display and rides to help celebrate the Toccoa Airport Open House.
The next stop is Augusta on Sept. 12 at Augusta Regional Airport, where the Airbase plans to visit with its P-51 Mustang and three trainers: the LT-6 Mosquito, the PT-19 and a T-34.
“We’re happy to bring this historic fleet to Augusta,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards. “The P-51 was an incredible guardian for American bombers over Germany and our PT-19 helped train the Tuskegee Airmen in Alabama.”
The third stop on the tour will be for Good Neighbor Day, Sept. 20, at Dekalb Peachtree Airport in Atlanta. Airbase Georgia plans to take the same group of exciting planes plus the Dauntless SBD dive bomber, the hero of Midway, to that event for rides on Sunday only.
Macon will be the fourth stop, on Sept. 26, at Middle Georgia Regional Airport. All five aircraft are scheduled to appear there.
Two stops are planned on Oct. 24. Gainesville’s Pixel Man Airshow at Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport will have the LT-6, PT-19 trainer and T-34 Mentor trainer. Athens-Ben Epps Airport will host Airbase Georgia for a day of rides with the P-51 Mustang, SBD dive bomber and the LT-6.
The final rides event will be during the Atlanta Gun Show Nov. 21-22 at Airbase Georgia’s headquarters, adjacent to Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field. All five rides aircraft are scheduled to be available. Additional tour stops may be announced during the summer and fall.
“This tour will offer amazing experiences to people across the state,” Richards said. “It helps fulfill our mission of honoring the Greatest Generation who flew these warbirds, and it helps enable school-age children to connect with the WWII history these planes represent. We also hope this tour will encourage more young people to consider careers in aviation.”
About the CAF Airbase Georgia Warbird Museum
CAF Airbase Georgia, based in Peachtree City, Ga., was founded in 1987. The Airbase is one of the largest units of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The group maintains and flies seven vintage military aircraft including a P-51 Mustang, an FG-1D Corsair, an SBD Dauntless, and a P-63A Kingcobra. The Airbase, composed of more than 300 volunteer members, is a founding partner of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail launched in 2021. The Airbase is part of the CAF, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that relies on contributions of time and funds to conduct its mission. For more information, go to https://airbasegeorgia.org/.
P-51 Mustang
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers
706-542-4274
jpowers@uga.edu
UGA Grand Farm Field Day to highlight research, technologies shaping Georgia agriculture on Aug. 13
What: The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and Grand Farm is set to host the UGA Grand Farm Field Day, an event designed for attendees to experience the research, partnerships and technologies shaping the future of Georgia agriculture.
UGA Grand Farm is a collaborative agricultural technology innovation hub led by UGA CAES and Grand Farm. Located in Perry, Georgia, the 250-acre farm brings together growers, researchers, startups, industry leaders and students to test emerging technologies, host hands-on events and accelerate practical solutions through applied research.
Through presentations and guided field tours, attendees will explore active trials, meet researchers and industry partners, and get an inside look at the USDA National Proving Grounds Network™ for AgTech initiative and other innovations taking place at UGA Grand Farm.
In addition, Pivot Bio’s Year of One Million Thanks Buddy Seat Tour will make a stop at the UGA Grand Farm Field Day. The year-long effort is traveling across rural America to celebrate farmers while bringing them together with leaders from business, government, academia and beyond to explore practical partnerships and solutions for the challenges facing agriculture and rural communities. Visitors will be able to see the tour’s working farm tractor, add a personal thank-you message for farmers and learn more about the conversations taking place from the Buddy Seat.
Where: UGA Grand Farm, 1101 Limerock Pkwy., Perry, GA 31069, (GPS Coordinates: 31.48126 N, 83.52084 W)
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EDT, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026
(A full agenda is available here.)
Who: Featured speakers and industry leaders include:
- Dr. Steven Mirsky, Director of Digital Agriculture, USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS)
- Dr. Lenin Rodriguez, Director, UGA Grand Farm
- Dr. Travis Frey, Chief Technology Officer, Pivot Bio
Photo Opps:
- Guided outdoor field tours of active trial plots and research sites
- Live demonstrations of emerging technology and field machinery
- Keynote presentations by USDA-ARS and UGA Grand Farm leadership
- On-site interviews with researchers, industry partners and speakers
- Pivot Bio’s One Million Thanks Grati-Tractor will be onsite throughout the event; media are welcome to interview Dr. Frey from the Buddy Seat
RSVP: Media outlets may register via the event page. Please contact CAES PR Manager Jordan Powers at jpowers@uga.edu with any questions.
Event Contact: Kaytlyn Cobb, Regional Assistant Director, UGA Grand Farm, kaytlync@grandfarm.com
Media Contacts: Jordan Powers, PR Manager, CAES Office of Marketing and Communications, jpowers@uga.edu
Erin Loesing, Agriculture & Science Communication Leader – Global, Pivot Bio, eloesing@pivotbio.com
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: State Affairs
Joy Walstrum, joy@stateaffairs.com
www.stateaffairs.com
Killed While Crossing: A Georgia Town Hall on Pedestrian Safety
Every crossing tells a story. Join us Sept. 20 to help change the ending.
Every day, Georgians risk their lives just crossing the street. Since 2018, tens of thousands of pedestrians have been killed or injured on our roads — landing Georgia among the 10 most dangerous states in the nation for walkers. This isn’t a statistic. It’s a crisis playing out on our sidewalks, at our crosswalks, in our neighborhoods.
It’s time to talk about why — and what we can do about it.
State Affairs Georgia reporter Beau Evans has spent months investigating the human toll behind these numbers and the infrastructure, policy and planning issues driving them. Now, we’re bringing that reporting into the room with the people who can act on it — that includes you.
Join us in Macon for a town hall that puts solutions on the table.
State Affairs Georgia Town Hall: Killed While Crossing
Date: Sept. 20, 2026
Location: Macon, Georgia
Time: 2–4 p.m. EDT
Residents, transportation experts, local leaders, advocates and policymakers will come together for a direct conversation about what’s broken — and how to fix it. Whether you walk, bike, drive or ride transit, Georgia’s streets should be safe for you. The event will be moderated by Tyrik Wynn, anchor and reporter at 41NBC News and host of the station’s weekday morning “Daybreak” newscasts.
The event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. This is a conversation that can’t wait.
Please click here to register.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Op-Ed: Higher Electric Prices & Lower Reliability? Not in Georgia.
This op-ed piece by Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia, is available for use in your newspaper
To download a photo of Greene, please click here.
If you’re reading the headlines, you may have noticed a seemingly nationwide crisis – the increased use of artificial intelligence and cloud storage by all of us is driving an electricity demand surge unlike anything in recent memory. Companies are racing to build data centers and, in state after state, the grid is not ready. Electric rates are rising. Reliability is under pressure – residents of some states even live in fear of potential blackouts. Families and small businesses are absorbing costs that were never designed to land on them. New businesses are reevaluating where they build or operate because reliable power is not readily available in some markets.
As the CEO of the largest electric company in the state, serving millions of homes and businesses, I want to assure you that is NOT happening in Georgia.
At Georgia Power, we’ve built and maintained the infrastructure our state needs for more than 140 years. From the beginning of the electric age, when lanterns gave way to electric lights, to the advent of air conditioning in the 1960s, to the internet boom of the 1990s, we know how to come together to face moments of rapid technological change and opportunity and keep Georgia moving in the right direction. Working alongside the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) and state leaders, we’ve taken deliberate steps that position our state differently. We believe growth can be a benefit – not a burden – and we’ve planned accordingly.
As temperatures climb and families across Georgia adjust their thermostats this summer, I want our customers to know two things: the energy you need will be there, and we are working every day to keep it affordable. In May, the PSC approved a plan that will deliver approximately $285 million in annual savings for customers, or about $50 in yearly savings for the typical residential household. That means the overall rate you are paying for electricity from Georgia Power is lower than it was this time last year – very few utilities can say the same.
Those savings build on other recent good news for customers: stable rates through 2028, along with more than $100 in additional annual savings planned beginning in 2029. This isn’t accidental. It reflects a deliberate strategy to manage Georgia’s economic growth and rising electricity demand while keeping costs down for customers.
So, how are we able to deliver these benefits when other states are struggling?
Because we have a system that allows us to plan, invest, and deliver—for today and for 20 years from today.
Years ago, we recognized that large energy users, like data centers, could reshape the demand for electricity. Working with the PSC, we put protections in place to ensure residential and small business customers wouldn’t bear the cost of that growth. We created new rules and regulations that require them to pay for the infrastructure needed to serve them, commit to longer contract terms, minimum bills, termination payments, and financial security provisions.
Simply put: They pay more, so you pay less.
This rate-reducing load growth is also resulting in a stronger, more resilient power grid for you, and for future generations of Georgians. We’re adding new power plants across the state, including natural gas, solar, and battery storage, as well as increasing the output of the country’s largest generator of clean energy at Plant Vogtle. We’re also building new transmission lines that serve as the backbone of our electric grid, reliably moving energy from power plants to the communities that depend on it.
This is what it looks like when growth is matched with preparation. Higher reliability and lower costs as we work to ensure that Georgia’s success benefits the people who call this state home.
At Georgia Power, our job is to make sure the infrastructure we build keeps pace with our state’s bright future – and serves everyone. The families watching their bills every month. The small business owners who can’t afford a reliability failure. The next generation of Georgians who deserve opportunity, stability, and a future in the state they know and love.
Georgia Power is built for this moment. On behalf of thousands of employees working across the state, we are grateful and honored to serve you, your family, and your business.
Kim Greene, Georgia Power Chairman, President and CEO
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Kim Broun, kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Georgia EMC Announces Heather Teilhet as Next President/CEO
(TUCKER, GA, August 3, 2026) – After a comprehensive national search, the Board of Directors of Georgia EMC is pleased to announce the selection of Heather Teilhet as the organization’s next President/CEO. She will take office on January 4, 2027.
Heather Teilhet
Teilhet brings almost two decades of electric utility leadership experience to Georgia EMC and 28 years of experience in government affairs and communications roles. She is returning to Georgia EMC after serving there from 2009 to 2017 in a variety of advocacy and government relations roles. Most recently, she has served as Executive Vice President of External Affairs at Oglethorpe Power Corporation, one of the largest generation cooperatives in the U.S. Earlier in her career, she served as Director of Communications and Press Secretary for Governor Sonny Perdue during portions of his first and second terms in office.
“Georgia EMC is delighted to welcome Heather Teilhet as President/CEO. We believe Heather is ideally suited to serving Georgia EMC’s members in the dynamic times ahead for our industry,” said Brenda Green, Board Chairman. “We look forward to working closely with Heather to strengthen all EMCs in Georgia so they can continue serving their members’ needs effectively.”
“I’m honored to return to Georgia EMC in this leadership role and grateful for the Board’s confidence in me. Having worked alongside Georgia’s electric cooperatives for many years, I have a deep appreciation for Georgia EMC’s advocacy and support for its members. I look forward to working with our Board, the talented team and our 41 Member cooperatives as they deliver safe, reliable and affordable energy to nearly five million Georgians and the communities they serve,” said Teilhet.
The board extends its sincere thanks to Dennis Chastain for almost four decades of service to Georgia’s EMCs, including the last 11 years leading Georgia EMC as President/CEO, and congratulates him on his upcoming retirement.
About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 5 million people across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Audrey Young, 229-402-5581
audrey@georgiacotton.org
2025 Georgia Quality Cotton Award Winners Announced
The 2025 Georgia Quality Cotton Awards were presented at the 2026 Georgia Cotton Commission Mid-Year Meeting on July 29, 2026. The awards are co-sponsored by the Georgia Cotton Commission and Bayer Crop Science/Deltapine and administered by the University of Georgia (UGA) Cotton Team. Dr. Yangxuan Liu, extension economist at the University of Georgia, conducted the analysis. Dr. Phillip Roberts presented the awards at the event in Statesboro on behalf of the UGA Cotton Team.
The purpose of the awards is to recognize producers and ginners of high-quality cotton fiber and to identify their general management practices for the benefit of other growers. The producers and their gins received a plaque, and the winning producers received a $500 cash award. The UGA County Extension Agent for each winner was also recognized as they work closely with the farmers during the growing season.
The awards are given in each of these three cotton acreage categories: 1) less than 500 acres, 2) 500 to 1,000 acres, and 3) greater than 1,000 acres within the four regions of the state. Winners in these categories are determined by the loan value and premiums of their cotton. The winners’ excellent achievements are due largely to their management practices and expertise. The sponsors of this program congratulate the following winners:
- Grower – Groves Landing Plantation LLC, Dooly County
- Ginner – Creek Cotton Company, Vienna
- Nominated by – Bill Starr
- Grower – Reese Foster, Terrell County
- Ginner – McClesky Cotton, Dawson
- Nominated by – Seth McAllister
- Grower – Stuart Goosen, Jefferson County
- Ginner – Midville Warehouse, Inc., Midville
- Nominated by – Pamela Sapp
- Grower – Jacob Sandeford, Burke County
- Ginner – Midville Warehouse, Inc., Midville
- Nominated by – Cliff Collins & Peyton Sapp
- Grower – Smith Farms, Jefferson County
- Ginner – Farmers Gin & Storage Co., Inc., Wadley
- Nominated by – Pamela Sapp
- Grower – Craig Drew, Brooks County
- Ginner – B.C.T. Gin Company, Inc., Quitman
- Nominated by – Jacob Kalina & Michasia Dowdy
- Grower – Overstreet Farms, Appling County
- Ginner – Southeastern Gin and Peanut, Surrency
- Nominated by – Will Brown
- Grower – Turner Farms, Appling County
- Ginner – Southeastern Gin and Peanut, Surrency
- Nominated by – Will Brown
- Grower – John Bulloch, Thomas County
- Ginner – Boston Gin, Boston
- Nominated by – Sydni Ingram
- Grower – Garrett Bridges Farms, Seminole County
- Ginner – Clover Leaf Gin, Inc., Donalsonville
- Nominated by – Justin E. Odom & Cody Powell
- Grower –A P Farms, Decatur County
- Ginner – Clover Leaf Gin Inc., Donalsonville
- Nominated by – Justin E. Odom & Brian Hayes
Jefferson County Farmer Stuart Goosen (left) and Ralph Sandeford of Midville Warehouse Inc. (center) accept the 2025 Best Cotton Award as part of the 2025 Georgia Quality Cotton Awards. L-R – Goosen; Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission Executive Director; Sandeford; Pamela Sapp, Jefferson County Extension Coordinator; and Will Duffie, Bayer Crop Science.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia 811
Megan Estes, 770-823-3936, mestes@georgia811.com
MISTAKES CAN COST YOU! Call 811 Before You Dig
“I’ve been digging here for years without a problem.”
“I know where my utilities are – I was here when they were installed.”
“I’m on a farm, so I don’t need a dig ticket.”
“I’m not digging very deep.”
“These are some of the most common reasons people give for not contacting 811 before digging,” says Megan Estes, Director of Corporate Communications at Georgia 811. “The reality is that every digging project is different. A locate request isn’t a one-time permit – it’s valid for one specific location, one specific type of work, and for only 30 days. If the location changes or the scope of the project changes, you’ll need a new ticket. It’s every dig, every time.”
Georgia law requires anyone planning to dig to contact Georgia 811 at least three business days before beginning work. After a ticket is submitted, Georgia 811 notifies the utility companies that may have underground facilities in the area. Those utility companies then send professional locators to mark the approximate location of their underground lines using paint, flags, or both.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that Georgia 811 locates underground utilities,” Estes says. “Our role is to notify the affected utility companies. They are responsible for sending their locate technicians to mark their facilities.”
Before breaking ground, those digging should verify that all notified utility companies have responded to the ticket. Using the ticket number, homeowners and contractors can check ticket responses online or through the Georgia 811 mobile app to confirm whether utilities have marked their lines.
The process is quick, easy, and completely free. Taking a few minutes to request a dig ticket before renting equipment or starting a project can help prevent service outages, costly repairs, injuries, and even fatalities.
Georgia 811 offers several convenient ways to submit a locate request. Homeowners and contractors can submit tickets online at www.Georgia811.com or simply dial 811, the national Call Before You Dig number.
As 811 Day (August 11) approaches, Georgia 811 reminds everyone that whether you’re planting a tree, installing a mailbox, building a fence, or tackling a major construction project, one simple step can make all the difference:
Know what’s below. Contact 811 before every dig, every time.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power cuts ribbon on new Moody battery energy storage facility paired with solar
Newest Lowndes County facility adds 49.5 MW of flexible energy storage to grid
ATLANTA – July 27, 2026 – Georgia Power leaders joined state and local elected officials, as well as community leaders, recently to celebrate the completion of one of the company’s first battery energy storage systems (BESS) connected to solar. The Moody Battery Facility, located just outside of Valdosta, Ga., is capable of 49.5 megawatts (MW) of battery storage, which can be deployed back to the grid over a four-hour period. This flexible energy storage system matches the output of the nearby Moody solar facility and adds resiliency to the state’s power grid.
Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman Jason Shaw and Lowndes County Manager Paige Dukes joined members of the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners, the Valdosta City Council, and other community partners, alongside Georgia Power leaders to cut the ribbon on the project, underscoring the strong partnerships that brought this project to life. The event spotlighted not only the importance of the project but also the lasting economic impact and benefits it will bring to Lowndes County.
“The successful completion of the Moody Battery Energy Storage System, ahead of schedule, is great news for our customers and for reliable energy in our state,” said Rick Anderson, senior vice president and senior production officer for Georgia Power. “This project not only enhances grid resiliency but highlights our commitment to adding cost-effective resources to our diverse generation mix through programs reviewed and approved with the Georgia PSC. We appreciate the hard work of Crowder Engineering, and the other companies involved in this project, as well as the community that has supported this new energy source in Lowndes County.”
At this battery and solar co-located facility, battery energy storage helps capture renewable resources produced during periods when the demand for electricity is lower and stores it for use when the demand is higher, such as on cold winter mornings. These projects help to address the state’s growing power needs approved by the Georgia PSC through the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process in a cost-effective and strategic manner.
Georgia Power Adding BESS Statewide
The Moody BESS facility was approved with three other BESS projects across the state, and Georgia Power is nearing completion of those projects – totaling 715 MW – Bibb, Cherokee, and Floyd counties, projects, which were previously approved in the 2023 IRP Update.
The Georgia PSC also approved the construction of nine additional BESS facilities strategically placed on eight sites throughout the state, adding more than 3,000 MW of additional planned storage. The sites were strategically selected based on deployment capabilities, including the opportunity to locate additional resources at existing company plant sites, existing company-owned land, and proximity to substations or current company facilities. New BESS facilities include locations at Plants Bowen, Hammond, McIntosh, Wansley and Yates as well as stand-alone locations in Hall and McDuffie counties.
To support the increasing demand for renewable energy, the company has also been approved for two new state-of-the-art solar systems paired with battery storage for a combined capacity of 350 MW. These projects are designed to maximize high solar irradiance while minimizing land disturbance. New solar + BESS projects include locations in Laurens and Dougherty counties.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power offers rates below the national average, focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Angela Holland, Georgia Association of Convenience Stores, aholland@gacs.com
Georgia Association of Convenience Stores Launches GACS L.E.A.D. Academy
DALLAS, Ga. — The Georgia Association of Convenience Stores (GACS) is proud to announce the launch of the GACS L.E.A.D. Academy, an eight-month leadership development program designed to prepare the next generation of leaders in Georgia’s convenience store industry.
Beginning in October 2026, the Academy will bring together owners, operators, decision-makers, and high-potential team members for an immersive leadership experience that combines practical instruction, executive networking, facility tours, and real-world learning. The program reflects GACS’s continued commitment to strengthening the industry through education and professional development.
“Leadership isn’t defined by titles, but by responsibility and commitment. It is reflected in how we collaborate, respond to challenges, and remain focused on what matters most,” said Angela Holland, CAE, President of the Georgia Association of Convenience Stores. “Through the GACS L.E.A.D. Academy, we are investing in the future of Georgia’s convenience store industry by equipping emerging and established leaders with the skills, perspectives, and relationships they need to succeed.”
Facilitated by nationally recognized leadership consultant Dr. Larry Grays, founder of EPL Consulting, the Academy moves beyond the traditional classroom by pairing expert instruction with insights from respected convenience store executives, Fortune 500 business leaders, state legislators, military personnel, and members of the GACS Board of Directors.
Participants will explore topics including:
- Defining Great Leadership: From Operator to Strategist
- Team Building & Improving Retention: Winning the War for Talent
- Conflict Resolution & Difficult Conversations
- Leading Through Change
- Strategic Planning & Vision Casting
- Effective Communication & Industry Advocacy
Throughout the eight-month program, participants will travel across Georgia for behind-the-scenes visits to different industry-leading facilities, including one of Core-Mark’s newest distribution centers, one of Coca-Cola UNITED’s production plants, Chick-fil-A’s Support Center, the Georgia Ports Authority, the Georgia State Capitol, along with many other prestigious destinations! Sessions will also feature speakers from organizations such as Whatley Convenience Stores, Jet Food Stores of Georgia, RaceTrac, Lockheed Martin, the Georgia Department of Public Safety, Trilith Studios, the Savannah Bananas, and many more, providing participants with a perspective of leadership across different industries.
The inaugural class begins October 21, 2026, in Columbus, Georgia, with a welcome dinner followed by participation in the GACS Southern Convenience Store & Petroleum Show. The Academy concludes during the 2027 GACS Convention at the historic Jekyll Island Club, where graduates will be recognized during a special graduation ceremony.
Enrollment is limited to 36 participants to foster meaningful collaboration and personalized leadership development. The $1,500 program investment includes required reading materials, DISC assessment fees, and registration for GACS events associated with the Academy.
Applications for the inaugural class are now being accepted.
To learn more about the curriculum, featured speakers, monthly sessions, or to apply, visit www.gacs.com/lead.
About the Georgia Association of Convenience Stores (GACS)
The Georgia Association of Convenience Stores (GACS) was founded in 1973 by convenience store owners and operators to create a united voice within the Georgia General Assembly. GACS advances the business success of its members and the convenience store industry through political engagement, knowledge circulation and relevant services. GACS represents roughly 1,600 convenience stores in Georgia. To learn more, please visit www.gacs.com
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Kim Broun, kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Georgia EMC Announces New Addition to Economic Development Team Leadership
(TUCKER, GA, July 23, 2026) — Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) is pleased to announce Tammy Caudell has recently joined the association as manager of economic development.
Tammy will lead the economic development team in its overarching mission to attract business investment and support economic growth across Georgia’s EMC communities. In this role, she will focus specifically on economic development strategy, prospect recruitment, stakeholder engagement and team management.
Tammy Caudell
“I am thrilled to welcome Tammy to our economic development team,” said Bradley Harris, vice president of community and economic development at Georgia EMC. “Tammy’s expertise will further enhance our efforts to empower the communities that our member EMCs serve and drive economic growth statewide.”
With nearly three decades of experience in economic development, business development and strategic marketing, Tammy has played a significant role in attracting more than $2.3 billion in capital investment to northeast Georgia.
In her previous role as senior business developer for Carroll Daniel Construction, Tammy delivered successful commercial and industrial projects across the state. She has also served as senior project manager with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, where she worked closely with state leadership to invest in industry growth. Earlier in her career, she held marketing and business development roles with The Coca-Cola Company and the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games, building a strong foundation in client engagement, strategic communications and relationship management.
Tammy is recognized for her ability to build trusted partnerships with corporate executives, community stakeholders and public-sector leaders. Her collaborative approach, leadership and deep knowledge of Georgia’s economic development landscape have made her a respected resource for companies investing and expanding throughout the state.
Tammy earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism with a concentration in public relations from the University of Georgia and a Master of Business Administration from Brenau University. Tammy is a Georgia Certified Economic Developer through the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and is an active member of the Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA) and the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC). She is also a graduate of the Leadership Georgia Class of 2009.
About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Reg Griffin, reg.griffin@decal.ga.gov, 404-656-0239 office
Georgia’s Pre-K Program Prepares for 2026–2027 School Year
This Year Marks the 34th Year of Pre-K in Georgia
ATLANTA, Ga., (July 24, 2026) – School bells are ringing for the state’s youngest learners as Georgia’s Pre-K Program begins its 34th year. The first day of Georgia’s Pre-K Program will vary based on school system and child care provider. It starts as early as July 24 in Chattooga County and as late as the week of September 3 in Murray and Webster counties. Most Georgia school systems begin classes during the first two weeks of August.
“Research shows that the early education of children from birth to age five is critical to their success in kindergarten and elementary school,” said Amy M. Jacobs, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning, the state agency that administers the program. “We believe laying a solid foundation for academic and social emotional success in our youngest learners is also important for the long-term economic growth of Georgia by helping to build a competent and qualified workforce.”
“Starting school is an exciting time for children and families and is also a time when learning and education become more formalized,” said Susan Adams, Deputy Commissioner for Georgia’s Pre-K Program and Instructional Supports. “Starting school is a big step, and we are honored to provide the first quality formal education experience for many children in Georgia.”
For families enrolling their children in Georgia’s Pre-K Program, Adams offered the following helpful tips to make the first day go smoother:
- Attend Pre-K orientation at the school where your child will be attending. Visit the classroom so your child is familiar with the new surroundings and will be able to meet their teachers.
- Practice your morning routine days before the actual first day of school.
- Pick out your child’s outfit the night before, have everything you will need ready to go!
- Send your child to school in clothes they can manage independently in the bathroom.
- Make sure your child’s shoes are comfortable and safe for playtime, close-toed shoes are a good choice.
- Tell your child’s teacher about any fears she/he may have.
- Discuss any special dietary needs or allergies your child may have with the teacher and ask her/him to explain program policies relating to children’s allergies.
- Complete necessary forms or releases your Pre-K provider may require for dispensing medication during the school day.
- Locate the bathroom with your child and determine special bathroom routines the school observes.
- Allow extra time for the first day of school once you arrive. Make sure you have time to say good-bye.
- Ask if your child can bring a familiar blanket for rest time: Can they bring a favorite stuffed animal?
- Send a family photo in your child’s backpack in case they get lonely.
Last year, Georgia achieved a historic milestone by meeting all 10 benchmarks in the annual NIEER State of Pre‑K Report Card for the 2024–2025 school year. This accomplishment marked a major step forward for the state’s early childhood education system and underscored Georgia’s ongoing commitment to providing high‑quality pre‑kindergarten experiences for its youngest learners.
This achievement was made possible by increased funding from the Georgia Lottery. With statewide Pre-K at around 68,500 students, the teacher-to-student ratio decreased to 1:10 and class size was reduced to a maximum of 20, down from 22.
Georgia’s Pre-K Program began in 1992 as a pilot program serving 750 at-risk four-year-olds at 20 locations. Because of the success of the Georgia Lottery, in 1995 the Pre-K program was opened to all four-year-old children regardless of family income. The program has been consistently ranked one of the top state programs in the nation by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) based on quality standards, teacher qualifications and enrollment.
About DECAL
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is responsible for meeting the child care and early education needs of Georgia’s children and their families. It administers the nationally recognized Georgia’s Pre-K Program; licenses child care centers and home-based child care; administers Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) Program and federal nutrition programs; and manages Quality Rated, Georgia’s community-powered child care rating system.
The department also houses the Head Start State Collaboration Office, distributes federal funding to enhance the quality and availability of child care, and works collaboratively with Georgia child care resource and referral agencies and organizations throughout the state to enhance early care and education. For more information, go to www.decal.ga.gov.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power to serve OpenAI project in Effingham County
OpenAI commits to supporting the power grid with up to 1,000 MW of flexible demand response; Lowering power use at scale will help ensure reliable electric service for all customers when demand is highest
ATLANTA – July 22, 2026 – As Georgia continues to grow and attract new investment and jobs, Georgia Power continues to work to ensure that growth benefits all Georgia Power customers. Today, AI research and deployment company OpenAI announced its plans for a new project in Effingham County, Georgia – about 45 minutes outside of Savannah – which will be served by Georgia Power. The project is expected to create thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in new investment for the local community. Read more about the announcement here: Building AI infrastructure with the Effingham County community | OpenAI
As outlined in OpenAI’s announcement, OpenAI will pay the full infrastructure and electric service costs to serve its facility and will fulfill requirements for long-term energy contracts and include financial assurances designed to protect Georgia Power customers. This approach is aligned with the updated rules and regulations first approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) in January 2025, which sit at the center of Georgia Power’s industry-leading strategy to meet the needs of large-energy users while also delivering lower rates and higher reliability for all customers. Read more about this robust strategy in the Georgia Power Customer Protection Pledge.
In addition, OpenAI, which is expected to need approximately 3,200 megawatts (MW) of power for its new facility, has agreed to provide up to 1,000 MW of flexible demand response where it will reduce its power use in times of high demand, meaningfully supporting reliability across Georgia Power’s system. Under the 25-year agreement, Georgia Power will have the ability to reduce energy delivered to the OpenAI facility during certain times to support the stability and reliability of the electric grid. This demand response resource will also allow the company to invest in fewer new generation resources to serve future growth, providing savings for customers in the long term. Georgia Power’s load flexibility agreement with OpenAI is among the largest single-facility demand response commitments in the country.
“We appreciate the leadership and thoughtfulness of the OpenAI team as they prepare to bring significant investment and cutting-edge technology to Georgia,” said Aaron Mitchell, senior vice president of Strategic Growth for Georgia Power. “At Georgia Power, we are working every day to help ensure that growth from data centers and other large-energy users brings value for our customers through higher reliability and lower prices. Companies like OpenAI are making real commitments when it comes to responsible operation and development and demonstrating the benefits that these facilities can bring to Georgia communities. We’re excited to work with OpenAI, Effingham County and local partners on this significant project.”
In recent years, with new residents moving to the state and large-energy users like data centers and manufacturers choosing Georgia, Georgia Power has moved quickly to anticipate and effectively manage growth with the Georgia PSC. This process includes conducting rigorous reviews of large-load contracts as they are reached with customers – such as the one with OpenAI currently – with Georgia PSC Staff. This industry-leading strategy is helping protect residential and small business customers, and has helped deliver the company’s earlier base rate freeze as well as a plan to provide annual savings of $102 for the typical residential customer beginning in 2029.
To learn more about how Georgia Power is keeping energy reliable and affordable for millions of Georgia homes and businesses, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Trent Jones, tj3business@gmail.com, 478-308-9922
10 Good Men’: Final World War II Documentary Screening at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
CHATHAM COUNTY, GA – JULY 16th 2026 – YouTube historian Trent “TJ” Jones will present a special screening of his highly anticipated feature documentary, 10 Good Men, on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force.
The 90-minute film preserves the firsthand combat stories of ten of the last remaining World War II veterans who flew the legendary B-17 Flying Fortress — the equivalent of a single full crew during the war. Featuring rare restored and colorized archive footage, an Emmy Award-winning narrator in Dan Nachtrab, and powerful interviews with these aging heroes, 10 Good Men offers a rare and intimate look at the air war over Europe through the eyes of those who lived it.
The documentary has already earned rave reviews from New York Times best-selling authors and respected Air Force historians and will be playing in select locations beginning in May. It marks the first feature film from TJ3 Productions, the company behind Jones’s popular TJ3 History YouTube channel, which has built a large following with in-depth World War II aviation storytelling.
A Q&A session with director Trent “TJ” Jones will follow the screening, giving audiences a chance to hear directly from the filmmakers and learn more about the three-year journey to bring these veterans’ stories to life.
“These men represent the final voices of a generation that is quickly leaving us,” said Jones. “Our goal with 10 Good Men was to honor their service with the highest production quality possible, so that their experiences can be preserved and shared for generations to come.”
Tickets for the world premiere are available online at www.10goodmen.com/event-details/savannah-ga-the-national-museum-of-mighty-eighth-airforce, or at the door the morning of the screening. For more information about the film, visit www.10goodmen.com.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Peanut Commission
Jessie Bland
(229) 386-3470, jessie@gapeanuts.com
Georgia Peanut Commission hosting 2027 calendar photo contest featuring peanut farms from across the state
TIFTON, Ga. – The Georgia Peanut Commission is hosting a photo contest through Oct. 1, 2026, featuring peanut farms from across the state to fill the pages of the 2027 Georgia Peanut Calendar. Photos will also be selected to be used in various promotional projects by GPC throughout the year.
Georgia farmers are encouraged to submit their best high-resolution photo from throughout the growing season. Winning entries will be selected for each month of the calendar, as well as the cover page. Below are tips to consider when selecting a photo to enter:
- Make sure the photo is not offensive and avoid photos with large, easy to read corporate logos.
- Think about the months of the year and select photos that represent them. For example, land prep work in the winter, planting in the spring, irrigation in the summer and harvest in the fall.
- Make sure photos are taken in horizontal format, so they will fill the entire page of the calendar.
- Showcase your family (young and old) and what being a Georgia peanut farmer means to you.
- Choose a photo you feel helps others understand more about how you care for the crop they love.
Photo entries must be taken during the 2024, 2025 or 2026 peanut crop year and feature peanut production. Entries must also be high resolution (300 dpi), horizontal and not taken with a phone; otherwise, they may be disqualified. Please submit photos in .jpg format with the online entry form provided on www.gapeanuts.com by Oct. 1, 2026, for consideration. Winning entries will be entered for a chance to win a Visa gift card. Visit www.gapeanuts.com for complete details.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Peanut Commission
Joy Crosby
(229) 386-3690, joycrosby@gapeanuts.com
Georgia Peanut Commission announces Georgia Peanut Innovation Award
Contest will recognize a unique new peanut product concept with a $10K cash prize
TIFTON, Ga. — The Georgia Peanut Commission announces a new award and cash prize for food entrepreneurs: The Georgia Peanut Innovation Award will recognize and reward the most unique and viable new product concept inspired by Georgia Peanuts. The $10,000 cash prize will be awarded at the Sunbelt Ag Expo on Oct. 22, 2026. The contest is open to any new and unique application of peanuts, whether the product idea is in the prototype phase or has been on the market for less than a year. While the product must be food-related, it can be intended for either human or animal consumption.
“Peanuts have always been unique,” remarks Taylor Arnold, executive director of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “They’re one of the most affordable sources of protein and they conserve water, improve soil health and are a zero-waste plant, making them perfectly suited for the future. It’s only fitting they also should inspire some unique ideas when it comes to new products.”
Peanut product innovators can enter the contest by visiting gapeanuts.com and filling out an official entry form. Entries must be submitted by August 20, 2026. After an internal evaluation, five finalists will be presented to a panel of business professionals from the fields of agriculture, finance, education, retail and product/recipe development.
The award and $10,000 cash prize will be presented to the winner by Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper and Donald Chase, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission, at the Sunbelt Ag Expo, Oct. 22, 2026, in Moultrie, Georgia.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power reaffirms longstanding commitment to make growth work for customers with Customer Protection Pledge
Pledge highlights key elements of company’s industry-leading strategy that have enabled its earlier base rate freeze and will provide future savings for customers
ATLANTA – July 15, 2026 – With new residents moving to the state and large-energy users like data centers and manufacturers choosing Georgia, Georgia Power continues to work to ensure that growth benefits all Georgia Power customers. The company has moved quickly to anticipate and effectively manage this growth with the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), creating an industry-leading strategy that is helping protect residential and small business customers through a comprehensive approach that has helped deliver the company’s earlier base rate freeze and a plan to provide annual savings of $102 per year for the typical residential customer beginning in 2029.
Today, the company further affirmed its overall commitment by introducing its Customer Protection Pledge at GeorgiaPower.com/Pledge, including six key points.
- Protect Your Rates and Keep Energy Affordable
- Ensure New Large-Energy Users Pay Their Way
- Invest in a Stronger, More Reliable Grid
- Negotiate Fairly and Transparently for Property
- Power a Balanced, Reliable Energy Future
- Protect What We Share
“We know that, in many parts of the country, rapid growth and increasing demand for electricity are creating higher electric rates and lower reliability – that is not happening in Georgia,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “Our Pledge clearly defines and solidifies the strategy that has been working for Georgia Power customers and our communities in recent years. Our company is built for this moment and, as we build and expand the power grid to serve this growth, we will do so responsibly and in a way which lives up to our longstanding mission to be a Citizen Wherever We Serve.”
For more than 140 years, Georgia Power has delivered reliable and affordable energy to Georgians as the state has grown. Since 1990, the company has offered rates, on average, 15 percent below the national average while also offering flexible rate plans for residential and business customers, as well as a wide variety of programs to help customers save money and energy. Alongside this focus on affordability, the company also continues to make investments that deliver greater reliability across the state, including its ongoing Grid Investment Program, which improved reliability for more than 500,000 customers in 2025 alone.
To learn more about how Georgia Power is keeping energy reliable and affordable for millions of Georgia homes and businesses, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Reg Griffin, reg.griffin@decal.ga.gov, 404-656-0239 office
DECAL Introduces DECAL FAST: Family Access to Services & Tools
Georgia Families Looking for Child Care Now Have Easy Access to Vital Information
ATLANTA, Ga., (June 28, 2026) – The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) has launched a new family portal called DECAL FAST: Family Access to Services & Tools to support Georgia’s families looking for child care or early education services.
This new portal offers families a more intuitive experience, making it easier for them to find information and connect with early care and education services, tools, and resources. A key feature of the portal is CALi, an AI chatbot, that will help families self‑navigate through the portal and quickly find the information they need. CALi will provide timely, intuitive support that will make DECAL resources more accessible, easy to find, and user centered.
“DECAL works continually to make our programs, services, and tools easy for families to find and use,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “DECAL FAST uses cutting edge technology to ensure that families across the state can find the best solutions for their early care and education needs.”
The portal was tested by DECAL staff and by DECAL Family Peer Ambassadors led by Child and Family Development Outreach Manager Bridget Ratajczak. Their involvement provided authentic, user-driven feedback to ensure that the portal meets the needs, supports, and expectations of the families we serve.
“We are so grateful for the feedback on the design and content that our DECAL Family Peer Ambassadors provided,” Ratajczak said. “Their input was a critical part of the design and testing process, providing family voice and ensuring that the portal is accessible to and meets the needs of families across Georgia.”
DECAL FAST is fully ADA compliant and accessible for all users including those who use screen readers or have other vision challenges. Language used in the portal has been intentionally simplified, and the design ensures easy and intuitive use on mobile devices. All content, except legal information, is also available in Spanish.
DECAL FAST is accessible through families.decal.ga.gov and through the Families and Find Quality Rated links on the DECAL website, www.decal.ga.gov.
About DECAL
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is responsible for meeting the child care and early education needs of Georgia’s children and their families. It administers the nationally recognized Georgia’s Pre-K Program, licenses child care centers and home-based child care, administers Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program, federal nutrition programs, and manages Quality Rated, Georgia’s community powered child care rating system.
The department also houses the Head Start State Collaboration Office, distributes federal funding to enhance the quality and availability of child care, and works collaboratively with Georgia child care resource and referral agencies and organizations throughout the state to enhance early care and education. For more information, go to www.decal.ga.gov.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power continues to offer options to connect customers to solar
New Customer Identified Resource programs expand how commercial and industrial customers can support their sustainability efforts; Company has procured more than 2,200 megawatts of new solar in last two years through CARES program
ATLANTA – June 25, 2026 – Georgia Power has opened enrollment for the new Clean and Renewable Energy Subscription Customer Identified Resource (CARES CIR) program, which the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) approved in the 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) stipulated agreement. As part of Georgia Power’s commitment to clean energy, Georgia Power routinely seeks utility-scale and distributed solar generation resources through competitive request for proposals (RFP) processes, in which renewable energy project developers bid in a project. Commercial and industrial customers can then subscribe to the CARES program where they receive renewable benefits associated with those projects. CARES CIR is a customer-driven expansion on this procurement and subscription concept that allows commercial and industrial customers to identify and submit additional renewable energy projects to Georgia Power at prices that will create value for all Georgia Power customers.
Interest in CARES subscriptions continues to grow as more customers look for ways to support renewable energy. By allowing customers to bring forward their preferred renewable energy projects, the CARES CIR program expands access to renewables while preserving benefits and maintaining protections for all Georgia Power customers. Once projects are approved, Georgia Power establishes long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with qualified developers and works with participating customers to execute subscription agreements.
“The CARES CIR program represents the next step in giving our customers more choice and flexibility in how they meet their sustainability goals,” said Wilson Mallard, director of renewable development for Georgia Power. “By enabling customers to identify and subscribe to renewable energy projects that align with their priorities, we’re expanding access to clean energy while maintaining reliability and value for all of our customers across Georgia.”
CARES CIR, which is approved for up to 3,000 additional megawatts (MW) of renewable energy projects, divides projects into two distinct programs:
- CARES CIR Utility-Scale allows eligible metered customers with annual energy demands above 3 MW to subscribe to renewable projects larger than 6 MW.
- CARES CIR Distributed Generation allows eligible metered commercial and industrial customers with smaller annual energy demands between 1 MW and 3 MW to subscribe to locally sourced solar projects in Georgia ranging from 250 kilowatts to 6 MW in size. The program will be filed through the traditional Distributed Generation RFP process, with a Notice of Intent period and application window expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Georgia Power Expands CARES Utility-Scale Programs
Last year, Georgia Power announced PSC approval of 1,068 MW of new solar PPAs and 91 MW Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) under the CARES 2023 RFP. Recently, two additional CARES 2023 RFP solar PPAs totaling 385 MW were filed for approval with the PSC, bringing the CARES 2023 RFP total to more than 1.4 gigawatts, pending final PSC approval.
Through the CARES 2025 RFP, approved in the 2022 IRP, Georgia Power has signed five contracts for 752 MW. The PPAs were selected by Georgia Power following a competitive solicitation overseen by an independent evaluator and PSC staff. The facilities will be located throughout Georgia and include:
- Appling County: 20-year PPA providing 78 MW of solar capacity
- Decatur County: 30-year PPA providing 130 MW of solar capacity
- Jefferson County: 25-year PPA providing 194 MW of solar capacity
- Sumter County: 30-year PPA providing 200 MW of solar capacity
- Warren County: 25-year PPA providing 150 MW of solar capacity
To learn more about the CARES program, including the new CARES CIR process, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/CARES.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power offers rates below the national average, focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Alejandro Sepulveda, Business Development Director, Vehicle License Plate Solutions, SICPA, info@SICPA.com
Iowa DOT Launches SICPA Temporary Tag Solution for Vehicles to Boost Officer and Public Safety
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 26, 2026 – On January 1, SICPA, a global leader in authenticated security solutions, launched a statewide system for issuing secure, verifiable temporary tags for vehicles with a wide range of protective features in partnership with the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT).
The paper-based temporary tags previously issued by Iowa car dealers were notoriously easy to counterfeit, leaving both law enforcement and the public vulnerable to a wide range of safety risks. Often, they were simply laser-printed or even hand-written. Across the country, fraudulent and expired temporary tags are frequently used to evade speed cameras, insurance requirements, and fees, and avoid police detection in the case of illegal activity.
In Grand Prairie, Texas, a police officer was killed while attempting to stop a vehicle with a fraudulent temporary tag. The suspect sped away upon being spotted, and the pursuit ended in a fatal crash. A New Orleans police officer was killed in a shooting in which the getaway vehicle had a fraudulent temporary tag. Similar instances have occurred throughout the U.S.
The new tags are not connected with the car’s driver. Instead, each is linked to the specific dealer issuing the tag, eliminating the ability of disreputable actors to make or sell tags. SICPA maintains the database of dealer distribution for the Iowa DOT.
The new temporary tags utilize SICPA’s proprietary, multi-faceted optical technology at the forefront of the security printing industry. This allows for easy, instant visual authentication, so officers can clearly tell if a tag is fake. The tag also contains a proprietary feature which invalidates expired tags when exposed to sunlight over time, ensuring an expired tag can be clearly identified and cannot be re-used.
About SICPA
Established in 1927, SICPA is a Swiss private technology company that supports the effective governance and long-term prosperity of nations. SICPA is best known for protecting the majority of the world’s banknotes. With operations across five continents, SICPA delivers solutions across digital identity and integrity, revenue mobilisation, natural resources, health and brand protection. For more information visit www.SICPA.com.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power prepared for severe weather and ready to respond
Company encourages customers and festival attendees to take steps now to prepare, keep safety first
Atlanta – June 18, 2025 – Georgia Power is tracking predictions for severe weather, including high winds, heavy rain, and the potential for isolated tornadoes, across the state over the next 24-hours, and crews are prepared to respond to issues quickly, and as conditions are safe to work. Heavy rain, which can saturate ground or create localized flooding, combined with high wind conditions, can cause trees to fall and damage electrical infrastructure causing power outages.
Georgia Power reminds customers and visitors to stay safe and take time to prepare now – before the system enters the state. In addition to following local media reports and weather sources like the National Weather Service, resources available at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm can help customers prepare and stay informed.
Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed
- Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
- Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
- Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
- Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
- Social Media – Follow Georgia Power across Facebook, Instagram and X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.
Safety Tips for Customers and Crews
Georgia Power urges customers to prioritize safety during severe weather and provides the following tools to stay connected and informed.
- Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If you must be on the roads, please move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
- Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire. Warn those going out to clear debris to watch for and avoid downed wires.
- Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be concealed. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.
- Take care if using a portable generator. Follow all manufacturer’s instructions, avoid using generators in enclosed spaces and be mindful of electrical safety. Click here for more safety tips.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power offers rates below the national average, focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia’s Plant Hatch receives 20-year license renewal from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Unit 1 authorized to operate through 2054 and Unit 2 through 2058
ATLANTA – June 15, 2026 – Georgia Power announced today that the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved the subsequent license renewal for the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant near Baxley. The approval authorizes continued operation of the facility for an additional 20 years by extending the operating license for Plant Hatch Unit 1 through 2054 and Unit 2 through 2058 – up to 80 years of operation for each reactor. The units were originally licensed to operate in the mid-1970s, with the NRC approving a previous 20-year license extension in 2002.
Plant Hatch, which marked 50 years of safe, reliable operation last year, is Georgia’s first nuclear power plant and is co-owned by Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power Corporation, the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia and Dalton Utilities. Southern Nuclear, a subsidiary of Southern Company, operates the plant on behalf of the co-owners. In 1975, the year Hatch Unit 1 entered service, Georgia’s population was around 5 million people and, today, that number has more than doubled with more than 11 million people now calling Georgia home. Plant Hatch has helped meet the electrical needs of that growth year after year, with its opening also marking a pivotal moment for Georgia Power’s commitment to developing a diverse, cleaner generation mix to serve customers.
In the decades following the completion of Plant Hatch, the co-owners have partnered to build four other nuclear units at Plant Alvin W. Vogtle near Waynesboro. With the completion of the new Vogtle Units 3 & 4 in recent years, Plant Vogtle is now the largest generator of clean energy in the United States. Nuclear energy from both Plants Hatch and Vogtle provided nearly 30 percent of Georgia Power’s overall energy production last year.
“At Georgia Power, our commitment to our customers is to ensure that the reliable, affordable energy they expect is there when they need it. Our nuclear facilities provide reliable energy around the clock at a stable, predictable cost, and are central to how we deliver on this commitment,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “I’m proud of the work that happens every day at Plant Hatch, the dedication of the teams onsite, and that all of our customers benefit from the reliability and efficiency of this power plant. This license extension is great news as our state continues to grow and demand for electricity continues to increase.”
Over the last 20 years, the co-owners have invested in major improvements at Plant Hatch. Improvements have included, among other items, replacement of Unit 2 cooling towers; replacement of key components such as large transformers, plant service water pumps, feedwater heaters and more; as well as identification and elimination of single point vulnerabilities across the site. Education and continuous improvement are also key to the success of Plant Hatch, with recent investments including the construction of the Plant Hatch Energy Education Center and a second onsite simulator to train reactor operators.
The NRC’s decision follows a comprehensive safety and environmental review of the plant’s operating performance, aging management programs and compliance with federal regulations. At the conclusion of the review, the NRC determined Plant Hatch can continue to operate safely and in accordance with all applicable standards throughout the subsequent license renewal period.
“The NRC’s approval reflects the strength of our safety culture, the dedication of our workforce and our sustained focus on operational excellence,” said Pete Sena, chairman, president and CEO of Southern Nuclear. “Our teams remain committed to operating Plant Hatch reliably for decades to come.”
In addition to providing dependable electricity, Plant Hatch supports hundreds of highly skilled, long-term jobs and contributes to the economic vitality of Appling County and surrounding communities with millions of dollars of property taxes paid each year. The plant maintains strong community partnerships, supporting local public schools and technical colleges, STEM programs, the United Way and more. Plant Hatch’s property is also a protected ecosystem with approximately 200 acres having been replanted with native longleaf pine, as well as bluebird and purple martin nesting programs in place, and a special program with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to help protect the red-cockaded woodpecker, a federally endangered species.
Visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/NuclearEnergy to learn more about Plants Vogtle and Hatch.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
About Southern Nuclear
Southern Nuclear, a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO) headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., is a leader among the nation’s nuclear energy facility operators and an innovator in advanced nuclear technologies. For more than 35 years, Southern Nuclear has operated nuclear energy facilities at the highest levels of safety and reliability. Southern Nuclear operates over 8,200 MW for Alabama Power and Georgia Power, including the Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant, the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant, and the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, which serves as the largest generator of clean energy in the country following the completion of Vogtle Units 3 & 4, the first newly constructed units in the United States in over 30 years.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power encourages customers to prepare for hurricane season
Grid improvements help reduce outages and speed recovery during severe weather
ATLANTA – June 3, 2026 – The Atlantic hurricane season is here and runs through Nov. 30. Georgia Power is encouraging customers to take simple steps now to protect their families, homes and businesses. Hurricane season can bring heavy rain, strong winds and flooding to both coastal and inland communities. While the National Weather Service predicts a below-normal hurricane season due to a strengthening El Niño driving more unfavorable conditions for hurricane formation in the Atlantic basin, warmer than average ocean temperatures in the waters near the United States will support intensification of any hurricanes that do form. Preparing ahead of time can ensure families and homes are safe when storms arrive.
This hurricane season marks two years since Hurricane Helene in 2024, the most damaging storm in Georgia Power history. Throughout the storm’s path, damage to the grid’s infrastructure was so severe that crews were rebuilding rather than simply reconnecting. There were nearly 12,000 power poles broken, over 5,800 transformers damaged,1,500 miles of downed power lines, and over 345 transmission structures rebuilt or repaired. Advanced smart‑grid technology supported remote restoration, enabling crews to return service to more than one million customers within the first five days despite widespread devastation.
Georgia Power is continuing to strengthen grid reliability through its Grid Investment Program, investing $1.3 billion in system upgrades over the past three years. In 2025 alone, the company completed more than 100 distribution projects and advanced 25 major transmission improvements, enhancing service reliability for more than 500,000 customers statewide. These upgrades, including smart‑grid technology, stronger infrastructure, and undergrounding, are helping reduce outages and significantly speed restoration, particularly during major storms like Hurricane Helene. For more details about how Georgia Power continues improving reliability, visit GeorgiaPower.com/Grid.
“The work we’ve done to strengthen and modernize our grid is directly improving how we prepare for and respond to hurricanes,” said Tami Barron, senior vice president of distribution at Georgia Power. “These investments are reducing outages and helping us restore power faster, even in the most challenging conditions, as we saw during Hurricane Helene. That progress is critical as we enter another active storm season, and it is made possible by our team of highly skilled employees who are among the best in the industry and who train year-round to respond safely, efficiently and with a strong commitment to our customers when it matters most.”
Getting Your Home Prepared
- Build an emergency supply kit with food, water, flashlights, and medications to get you through at least three days.
- Charge phones, battery packs and anything else you rely on every day.
- Secure loose items around your home. Patio furniture, garbage cans, and yard décor can easily turn into hazards in high winds.
- Plan for power outages by keeping freezer doors closed, unplugging appliances that may overload circuits and leave a porch light on once power is restored.
- Know your surroundings by checking flood maps, evacuation routes, and how you will receive emergency alerts.
Before, During and After a Storm Safety Tips
- Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advice from officials, and check out the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Charge cell phones before the storm and unplug major appliances if you lose power.
- During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects and water.
- After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off power lines yourself or enter flooded areas or those with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage or hidden under standing water. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.
Stay Connected During Hurricane Season
- Download the Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
- Check Your Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message.
- Get Familiar with the Outage & Storm Center – Available at georgiapower.com/outagemap, customers can visit this site to report and check the status of outages via the interactive Outage Map, and access useful safety tips and information.
- Follow the company on social media – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.
For tips on storm safety, outage preparedness and what to do before hurricane season, visit GeorgiaPower.com/Storm.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
A mother is checking the items and preparing an emergency bag in the living room at home.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Reg Griffin, reg.griffin@decal.ga.gov, 404-656-0239 office
Georgia’s Pre-K Participation Boosts Early Language Development
New Report Finds that Language-Rich Classrooms Nurture Skills Growth
ATLANTA, GA, (May 28, 2026) – A new report shows again why Georgia’s Pre-K Program is among the best in the nation. The intentional teaching strategies and nurturing classroom environments integral to the program are leading students to greater-than-expected gains in language and literacy.
The report, Georgia’s Pre-K Evaluation: Study of Language Development in Pre-K,shares the findings of a yearlong study of language and literacy development in the Georgia’s Pre-K Program during the 2022‒2023 school year. The study was conducted by the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (FPG) and funded by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL).
The FPG researchers used child assessments, classroom observations, and teacher and family surveys to uncover specific practices in Georgia’s Pre-K program that uniquely support children’s language skill growth. They found that the quality of teacher-child interactions, classroom environments, and high-quality language and literacy practices and supports led to optimal results.
“Georgia’s Pre-K classrooms are providing interactions with children that are warm, responsive, and language rich within enriched learning environments,” the report states. “Classrooms using intentional strategies to support vocabulary knowledge during designated times in their schedule and where children were highly engaged in language activities, facilitated slightly greater-than-expected growth in vocabulary knowledge relative to same-age peers.”
Those factors worked together to generate strong student skill growth in language and literacy. “Children attending the Georgia’s Pre-K program continue to demonstrate patterns of growth in their language development that are similar to or exceed skill growth of other children of the same age within a national sample,” the researchers conclude.
“Language and literacy skill development is critical for building a strong foundation for future learning, so it’s gratifying that research continues to document Pre-K’s effectiveness in moving the needle on young learners’ progress in that area,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “This study is also helpful because it pinpoints areas where additional supports could improve literacy levels moving forward.”
This report is consistent with the results of previous investigations:
- A 2012‒2013 study, also by FPG, found that Pre-K participation had significant positive effects on children’s kindergarten readiness, including improvements in language and literacy, math, and general knowledge.
- A 2015‒2016 analysis of third-grade milestone test results by Child Trends showed that students who attended Pre-K outperformed classmates who did not.
- A 2013‒2019 longitudinal study, also by FPG, concluded that at the end of fourth grade, the children who attended Pre-K were still performing at or above the national average and had better language, literacy, and executive function skills than those who did not.
The full report and executive summary are available on DECAL’s website.
About UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG)
Founded in 1966, FPG transforms the lives of children and families through interdisciplinary research, evaluation, implementation, technical assistance, and outreach. FPG generates knowledge, informs policies, and supports practices to promote positive developmental and educational outcomes for children of all backgrounds and all abilities from the earliest years. Learn more by visiting https://fpg.unc.edu/.
About the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning
DECAL is responsible for meeting the child care and early education needs of Georgia’s children and their families. It administers the nationally recognized Georgia’s Pre-K Program, licenses child care centers and home-based child care, administers Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program, federal nutrition programs, and manages Quality Rated, Georgia’s community powered child care rating system.
The department also houses the Head Start State Collaboration Office, distributes federal funding to enhance the quality and availability of child care, and works collaboratively with Georgia child care resource and referral agencies and organizations throughout the state to enhance early care and education. For more information, go to www.decal.ga.gov.
CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Audrey Young, 229-402-5581, audrey@georgiacotton.org
Georgia Cotton Commission Welcomes USDA’s Great American Cotton Plan
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia PSC approves plan to lower overall rates, deliver annual savings of $50 per year for Georgia Power residential customers
Rate decrease will be effective beginning next month; Total annual savings for all customers of approximately $285 million
ATLANTA – May 28, 2026 – The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) today approved a plan to lower overall rates for customers and deliver annual savings of approximately $50 per year, or $4.04 per month, for the typical residential customer using an average of 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month. Total annual savings for all Georgia Power customers will amount to approximately $285 million.
Today’s vote by the Georgia PSC follows a stipulated agreement reached earlier this month between Georgia Power and the Public Interest Advocacy (PIA) Staff of the Georgia PSC in two cases originally filed with the Georgia PSC in February – the Fuel Cost Recovery (Docket 56765) case and the Storm Cost Recovery (Docket 44280) case. The cases sought to recover the cost of fuel to operate power generation plants to serve customers and to recover costs to quickly and safely restore electric service following storms, most notably the historic Hurricane Helene in 2024.
“Today’s vote by the Georgia PSC will bring lower rates and real savings for Georgia families and businesses as the heat of summer begins and energy use increases, which can lead to higher bills,” said Tyler Cook, CFO and treasurer for Georgia Power. “At Georgia Power, our teams work every day to run our business efficiently and keep reliable and affordable energy flowing to our customers. We appreciate today’s approval by the Georgia PSC of this plan, following months of hard work by our teams and Georgia PSC staff, robust review and open hearings, as well as engagement by members of the public and intervenors.”
Focused on Affordable Energy & Delivering Savings
For more than 140 years, Georgia Power has delivered reliable and affordable energy to Georgians as the state has grown. Since 1990, the company has offered rates, on average, 15 percent below the national average while also offering flexible rate plans for residential and business customers, as well as a wide variety of programs to help customers save money and energy.
With new residents moving to the state and large-load customers like data centers and manufacturers choosing Georgia, Georgia Power continues to work to ensure that growth benefits all Georgia Power customers. The growing pipeline of large-load customers is a key factor that enabled the company’s earlier base rate freeze, and is helping spread fixed costs across a broader customer base and protect residential and small business customers. This growth has also allowed the company to commit to providing annual savings of $102 per year for the typical residential customer beginning in 2029.
To learn more about how Georgia Power is keeping energy reliable and affordable for millions of Georgia homes and businesses, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power offers rates below the national average, focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia World War II Heritage Trail
Ed Coleman, Chair, chair@georgiawwiitrail.org, 870-613-5558
Chris Madrid, Secretary, media@georgiawwiitrail.org, 770-655-3315
Georgia World War II Heritage Trail Welcomes Three New Affiliate Partners
PEACHTREE CITY, Ga. (May 28, 2026) — The Georgia World War II Heritage Trail today announced the addition of three new Affiliate Partners to its growing statewide network dedicated to preserving and sharing Georgia’s World War II legacy: Project Liberty Ship SS John Brown, the Town of Napier Field, and Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.
Affiliate Partners are valued members of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail representing museums, historic sites, and community organizations across Georgia and other states that share a commitment to preserving Georgia’s World War II legacy. Together, Trail Partners and Affiliate Partners help tell the thousands of stories that define Georgia’s role in World War II, ensuring that the people, places, and lessons of this pivotal era remain accessible, relevant, and remembered statewide.
“These new Affiliate Partners help expand the Trail’s ability to connect Georgia’s World War II story to the broader national story of service, sacrifice, innovation, and victory,” said Ed Coleman, Chair of the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail. “From Liberty ships and wartime aviation training to the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, these organizations help preserve and share stories that continue to educate and inspire future generations.”
The addition of Project Liberty Ship SS John Brown is especially significant given Georgia’s critical role in Liberty ship construction during World War II. Shipyards in Savannah and Brunswick produced 173 Liberty ships that supported Allied logistics and sustained the war effort across multiple theaters. Today, the SS John Brown remains one of the few operational Liberty ships in existence and serves as a living connection to the industrial mobilization and maritime heritage that shaped Georgia’s wartime experience.
The Town of Napier Field, located in Alabama, represents an important chapter in the wartime aviation training story of the American South. Established as an Army Air Forces Training Center during World War II, Napier Field trained American, British, Mexican, and women pilots preparing for combat service overseas. Student pilots trained in P-40 aircraft known for their distinctive parrot-head nose art before the base officially closed in 1944. Several original buildings from the wartime installation remain part of the community today, including the former Army headquarters building that now serves as Town Hall.
The inclusion of Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site further strengthens the Trail’s connection to one of the most important aviation and civil rights stories of World War II. Located at historic Moton Field in Tuskegee, Alabama, the site preserves the training grounds of the pioneering Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in U.S. history. During World War II, Moton Field served as the primary flight training center for African American pilot candidates whose combat achievements overseas and perseverance against segregation at home helped pave the way for the eventual integration of the United States military.
The new organizations join a growing network of Affiliate Partners already connected to the Trail, including Roosevelt’s Little White House, Ft. Oglethorpe, and E.L. Greenway Welcome Center and Depot Row.
Established in 2021, the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail connects museums, historic sites, aviation museums, military heritage organizations, and community partners across the state to highlight Georgia’s extraordinary contributions during World War II. Today, the Trail includes twelve primary partner sites and a growing network of affiliate organizations helping preserve and interpret the stories of the Greatest Generation for visitors, educators, students, and heritage travelers statewide.
For additional information about the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail and its Affiliate Partner Program, visit the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail website or follow the Trail on Explore Georgia, Facebook or Instagram to discover events, programs, and travel ideas across the state.
Website here
Explore Georgia listing here
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About the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail
The Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, established in 2021, is a collaborative network of museums and historic sites dedicated to preserving and sharing Georgia’s contributions to victory in World War II. From pilot training and shipbuilding to the stories of Infantry soldiers, prisoners of war, and home front workers, the Trail highlights the people and places that shaped the war effort. Its mission is to explore our state’s legacy of inspiring wartime stories at the museums that make up Georgia’s World War II Heritage Trail. Learn more at www.georgiawwiitrail.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org
Museum Offers Hands-On “Bombardier School” Experience with Authentic Norden Bombsight
June 5 & 6, 2026
Chatham County, GA – One of the greatest accomplishments of the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II was the rapid training of hundreds of thousands of flying and ground personnel. This fall, the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force invites students and history enthusiasts to step into that story through an immersive Bombardier School program led by renowned Norden Bombsight expert Dr. Tim Moore.
Attendees will plot real flight paths using dead reckoning and operate an authentic Norden Bombsight, one of the most important technological innovations of the air war. Dr. Moore will guide participants through the process, offering insights into mathematics, engineering, and split-second decision-making that defined these critical missions.
Programming Schedule
Adult Sessions:
- Dates & Times:
- June 5, 2026 at 10 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.
- June 6, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Fees: $50 per participant (non-member), $35 per participant (member)
- Audience: General public (ages 18+)
Both sessions feature hands-on learning with original equipment and guided instruction by Dr. Moore.
Registration Information
Seating is limited, and advance registration is required by June 4, 2026.
- Cost: $50 Non-Members | $35 Members
- Seating is limited to 5 participants per session. Please register at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/sg6mpqx
For full details and tickets, visit mightyeighth.org or contact H+STEM Educator, Kristin Singleton, at ksingleton@mightyeighth.org.
About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:
The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.
Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.
The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Cindy Morley, Director of Public Affairs
cmorley@hbag.org
Home Builders Association of Georgia Presents Defender of Housing Award to Sen. Clint Dixon
ATLANTA, GA — The Home Builders Association of Georgia (HBAG) honored Sen. Clint Dixon with the Defender of Housing Award during the HBAG Spring Meeting recently at The Hotel at Avalon in recognition of his leadership and dedication to advancing housing affordability and regulatory reform in Georgia.
Sen. Dixon (R-Gwinnett) was recognized for his work on Senate Bill 447, landmark legislation designed to streamline Georgia’s permitting process, increase transparency, and improve efficiency for builders and developers across the state. The legislation establishes clearer timelines for permit reviews, requires written explanations for denials, and creates additional accountability measures for local permitting authorities.
HBAG President Gabe Chatham said the legislation represents a significant step toward addressing housing affordability challenges by reducing costly delays and uncertainty in the development process.
“Sen. Clint Dixon has been a true champion for housing affordability and property rights in Georgia,” said Chatham. “His leadership on SB 447 demonstrated a strong understanding of the challenges facing Georgia’s housing industry and the impact unnecessary permitting delays have on the cost of housing for Georgia families.”
The Defender of Housing Award recognizes elected officials and policymakers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting policies that support attainable housing, economic growth, and responsible development throughout Georgia.
During the presentation, HBAG leaders praised Sen. Dixon for working collaboratively with industry stakeholders and lawmakers to advance meaningful reforms that will help create greater predictability and efficiency in the permitting process while maintaining local oversight.
“Georgia continues to face significant housing affordability challenges,” said Chatham. “Sen. Dixon’s work on SB 447 helps move the state toward solutions that will benefit not only the homebuilding industry, but also Georgia families searching for attainable housing opportunities.”
SB 447 was signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp earlier this month and takes effect July 1, 2026.
HBAG President Gabe Chatham, EVP Austin Hackney, Sen. Clint Dixon and Director of Public Affairs Cindy Morley
CONTACT: Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education
Robert Gaines, 678-476-4491, rgaines@gpee.org
Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education Announces Applications Open for 19th Cohort of the Georgia Education Policy Fellowship
ATLANTA, Ga. — The Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education is now accepting applications for the 19th cohort of the Georgia Education Policy Fellowship (GEPF), a statewide leadership development program designed to equip emerging and established leaders with the knowledge, networks, and skills needed to advance education policy and practice across Georgia.
The 2026–2027 cohort will run from August 2026 through May 2027 and will bring together professionals from education, business, government, nonprofit, and community sectors who are committed to strengthening educational opportunities and outcomes for all Georgians.
GEPF is a rigorous, cohort-based professional development experience that provides Fellows with in-depth exposure to education policy issues at the local, state, and national levels. Through seminars, discussions with policymakers and experts, and collaborative learning experiences, Fellows develop a deeper understanding of Georgia’s education landscape, from early learning through post-secondary, while building meaningful cross-sector relationships and leadership capacity.
“As Georgia continues to navigate both challenges and opportunities in education, the need for informed, collaborative leadership has never been greater,” said Dr. Dana Rickman, President & CEO of the Georgia Partnership. “For nearly two decades, GEPF has helped cultivate leaders who are prepared to advocate for students, influence policy, and drive meaningful change in their communities and across the state.”
Over the past 18 years, GEPF has prepared more than 300 leaders who now serve in influential roles across education, government, business, philanthropy, and nonprofit organizations throughout Georgia.
Applications for the 19th cohort are due by Friday, June 19, 2026. Additional information, including program details, key dates, and application instructions, is available in the program application packet. Completed applications and all required materials should be submitted via email.
For more information about GEPF and the application process, visit Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education.
Founded in 1992 by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Economic Developers Association, the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education consists of business, education, community and government leaders who share a vision of improved education. An independent organization, the Partnership is working to be Georgia’s foremost change agent in education. The non-partisan, non-profit Georgia Partnership takes lead roles in efforts to impact education policies and practices for the improvement of student achievement. More information is available at www.gpee.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
Georgia Power shares tips, tools and free resources to reduce energy use this summer
Savings of approximately $4 per month for the typical residential customer expected in June if approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission
As temperatures begin to rise across Georgia heading into the heat of summer, Georgia Power is encouraging customers to take advantage of free and low-cost energy-efficiency resources that are available to help keep homes comfortable, while managing energy use.
By taking small, proactive steps, customers can better manage energy use during the hottest months of the year while maintaining comfort at home. Simple tips from the company include:
- Change air filters regularly and keep vents clear to maintain proper airflow. Change standard air filters once a month, or every three months for pleated filters.
- Turn off lights when not in use and close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day.
- Seal gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weather-stripping to keep cool air inside.
- Wash full loads of laundry in cold water and clean the dryer lint trap before each use.
- Switch to ENERGY STAR®-certified LED bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Use large appliances during off-peak hours (before 2 p.m. or after 7 p.m.) to reduce heat and strain on your home.
The tips above are just a few of the many that are available on GeorgiaPower.com, alongside digital tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity use. Online and mobile app options include My Power Usage which allows most customers to track their energy use by the hour, day, or month, as well as Threshold Alerts which notify customers when their energy use approaches a self-selected threshold, helping avoid billing surprises during high–use months.
Georgia Power also encourages eligible customers to explore the EASE Program, which offers free home energy improvements such as LED light bulbs, heating and cooling system servicing, attic insulation, and more. These upgrades can significantly reduce energy use and lower monthly bills. Households earning 200% or less of federal poverty guidelines may qualify. Learn more at GeorgiaPower.com/EASE.
Assistance Options
Georgia Power works throughout the year with customers who may need assistance paying their bill, and makes it easy to find local resources for utilities, food, shelter, and more by ZIP code at GeorgiaPower.com/Assistance. Through partnerships like Project Share, administered by The Salvation Army, Georgia Power matches customer contributions to assist those in need, and customers can also find a variety of other income-qualified programs on the website.
Focused on Affordable Energy & Delivering Savings
For more than 140 years, Georgia Power has worked to bring Georgians the energy they need at the lowest possible rates. Since 1990, the company has offered rates 15 percent below the national average, on average, while also offering flexible rate plans for residential and business customers, as well as a wide variety of programs to help customers save money and energy. Additionally, Georgia Power recently announced a stipulated agreement with the Public Interest Advocacy (PIA) staff of the Georgia Public Service Commission to help customers save even more. Under the agreement, which remains subject to review and approval by the Georgia PSC later this month, a typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month is expected to save $4.04 monthly, or nearly $50 annually, beginning in June.
With new residents moving to the state and large-load customers like data centers and manufacturers choosing Georgia, Georgia Power continues to work to ensure that growth benefits all Georgia Power customers. The growing pipeline of large-load customers is a key factor that enabled the company’s earlier base rate freeze, and is helping spread fixed costs across a broader customer base and protect residential and small business customers. This growth has also allowed the company to commit to providing annual savings of $102 per year for the typical residential customer beginning in 2029.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this release is forward-looking information based on current expectations and plans that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information includes, among other things, statements concerning the potential approval of the stipulated agreement and expected customer savings. Georgia Power cautions that there are certain factors that can cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information that has been provided. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is not a guarantee of future performance and is subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Georgia Power; accordingly, there can be no assurance that such suggested results will be realized. The following factors, in addition to those discussed in Georgia Power’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026 and subsequent securities filings, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations as suggested by such forward-looking information: the impact of pending and future rate cases and negotiations, including rate actions relating to fuel and other cost recovery mechanisms; the impact of recent and future federal and state legal and regulatory changes, including tax, environmental and other laws and regulations to which Georgia Power is subject, as well as changes in application of existing laws, regulations and guidance; current and future litigation or regulatory investigations, proceedings or inquiries; and catastrophic events such as fires, including wildfires, land movement, earthquakes, explosions, floods, high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes and other storms, solar flares, droughts, future epidemic or pandemic health events, wars, political unrest, or other similar occurrences. Georgia Power expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia World War II Heritage Trail
Ed Coleman, Chair, chair@georgiawwiitrail.org, 870-613-5558
Chris Madrid, Secretary, media@georgiawwiitrail.org, 770-655-3315
Georgia World War II Heritage Trail Commemorates Memorial Day Weekend Across Georgia
Peachtree City, GA (May 22, 2026) — Partners across the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail will commemorate Memorial Day weekend with ceremonies, remembrance programs, educational exhibits, aviation events, and special tributes honoring the Americans who gave their lives in service to the nation.
Among the Memorial Day weekend programs currently announced by Trail partners:
- Andersonville National Historic Site will host Memorial Day observances, including the Avenue of Flags display, a Memorial Day Ceremony and Flag Placement on May 23, and participation in Taps Across America at Andersonville National Cemetery.
- The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force will host its annual Flags for the Fallen tribute from May 22–25, featuring 26,000 American flags honoring Eighth Air Force airmen who never returned home during World War II.
- The National Infantry Museum will host a Memorial Day Tribute and Paver Dedication Ceremony on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. The free public event will feature keynote speaker COL (Ret.) Rob Choppa, president of the National Infantry Association. The ceremony will include the dedication of newly installed pavers along the museum’s Heritage Walk and commemorative ribbon dedications honoring veterans and loved ones.
- The Coastal Georgia Historical Society will host a Memorial Day commemoration on Monday, May 25, 2026, at the World War II Home Front Museum and Historic St. Simons Coast Guard Station on St. Simons Island. Throughout the day, veterans and active-duty military personnel will receive free admission to the museum. The commemoration will include a Field of Flags honoring Glynn County servicemembers who lost their lives in American wars since World War I, as well as Merchant Mariners killed during the April 8, 1942, German U-boat attacks off the Georgia coast. Visitors will also be invited to participate in a Memorial Day poppy craft activity recognizing the enduring symbol of remembrance associated with the holiday.
- The World War II Flight Training Museum is commemorating Memorial Day weekend through a special literary promotion honoring the World War II generation. Throughout the holiday weekend, the museum is promoting the e-book edition of Disgracefully Easy: A B-24 Pilot’s Letters Home, a collection of wartime correspondence from an Army Air Forces pilot, for a special Memorial Day promotional price of $0.99.
The Georgia World War II Heritage Trail is a statewide partnership of museums, historic sites, and educational organizations dedicated to preserving and interpreting Georgia’s significant contributions to the World War II home front and military effort.
Trail partners collectively tell the story of Georgia’s extraordinary role during World War II. Additional Trail partners include the Museum of Aviation, Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame, Thomaston-Upson Archives, Upson Historical Society, St. Marys Submarine Museum, Currahee Military Museum, Camp Toccoa at Currahee, and Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia.
“Memorial Day is a solemn reminder that freedom has always carried a cost,” said Ed Coleman, chair of the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail. “Across Georgia, our Trail partners are committed to ensuring that the stories, sacrifices, and service of America’s veterans — especially the World War II generation — continue to be remembered and shared with future generations.”
Visitors are encouraged to check individual museum and historic site websites for complete schedules, admission information, and event updates throughout Memorial Day weekend.
To learn more, visit the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail website or follow the Trail on Explore Georgia, Facebook or Instagram to discover events, programs, and travel ideas across the state.
Website here
Explore Georgia listing here
About the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail
The Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, established in 2021, is a collaborative network of museums and historic sites dedicated to preserving and sharing Georgia’s contributions to victory in World War II. From pilot training and shipbuilding to the stories of Infantry soldiers, prisoners of war, and home front workers, the Trail highlights the people and places that shaped the war effort. Its mission is to explore our state’s legacy of inspiring wartime stories at the museums that make up Georgia’s World War II Heritage Trail. Learn more at www.georgiawwiitrail.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Steve Forsyth, sforsyth106@gmail.com, 770-714-7750
“Moonlight Swing” to Celebrate Nation’s 250th Anniversary Oct. 17
PEACHTREE CITY, GA. (May 19, 2026) – Celebrate the Nation’s 250th Anniversary at a special “Moonlight Swing” dance and dinner on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia in Peachtree City, Ga. The night promises to be a festive occasion commemorating the 1940s era, an historic part of United States history.
Music by the Peachtree Jazz Edition will rock the Airbase Georgia hangar with popular 1940s tunes, surrounded by the ambiance of WWII aircraft. Guests will enjoy a catered dinner in 1940s style, with a unique silent auction featuring valuable warbird artwork.
Proceeds from the event will support the expanding education programs provided by Airbase Georgia, ranging from elementary through high school, with additional opportunities for aviation career events.
“We couldn’t think of a better opportunity to celebrate our nation’s history and ensure that it will be carried forward for the youth of today and tomorrow,” said Airbase Leader Mark Richards.
Tickets and sponsorships will go on sale soon, and more details will be announced in the coming months. For current information, go to the events page at airbasegeorgia.org.
About the CAF Airbase Georgia
CAF Airbase Georgia, based at Atlanta Regional Airport -Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Ga., was founded in 1987. The Airbase is one of the largest units of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The group maintains and flies seven vintage military aircraft including a P-51 Mustang, an FG-1D Corsair, an SBD Dauntless, an LT-6 Mosquito, a P-63A Kingcobra, a PT-19 Cornell and a T-34 Mentor. Under restoration are an N2S Stearman and P-47 Thunderbolt. The Airbase, composed of more than 300 volunteer members, is a founding partner of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail launched in 2021. The Airbase is part of the CAF, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that relies on contributions of time and funds to conduct its mission. For more information, go to https://airbasegeorgia.org/.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org
Two May Mighty Talk programs planned at National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Mighty Talk | The Navigators Letter with author Jan Cress Dondi
Sunday, May 24th at 1:00 pm at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s monthly Mighty Talk series is proud to present author Jan Cress Dondi, who will be discussing her bestselling book The Navigator’s Letter. This program will take place on May 24th at 1:00 pm at the museum as part of the Flags for the Fallen weekend programming.
The program is free to the public, but please register at https://forms.gle/7qBGm5TYxBqLud7w8
About the Book
A USA Today Bestseller, The Navigator’s Letter reveals one of the most audacious and overlooked World War II stories. It chronicles a dangerous U.S. Army Air Force campaign through the voices of two airmen bound by duty—and one woman, forming a deeply human narrative. A gripping blend of military history and war biography, it captures brotherhood, love, and sacrifice.
One of the riskiest air raids of World War II occurred on August 1, 1943, over the oil fields at Ploesti, Romania—Nazi Germany’s primary fuel source. The Allies believed that the destruction of Hitler’s oil refineries would shorten the war. Using an untested strategy, it was worth the gamble, but the mission did not go according to plan—with 53 aircraft and 532 crewmen lost, it was the costliest US air raid of the war.
A true story, The Navigator’s Letter is a tale of uncanny coincidences: two friends from the same small Illinois town; both joined the Air Corps; both became navigators; both were assigned to B-24 Liberators; both flew missions over Europe; both of their planes were forced down over Ploesti; and both went missing-in-action.
Intertwined with events of WWII, the story follows the two B-24 navigators coursing through wartime, both with ties to the same woman. Their lives unfurl with the Air Force’s darkest day, Operation Tidal Wave. It was the first-ever zero-altitude air raid followed by multiple high-altitude raids culminating in Operation Reunion, the largest evacuation by air in history with the Tuskegee Airmen of the 332nd Fighter Group flying escort repatriating 1,162 POWs from Romania back to American air bases in Italy.
About the Author
Jan Cress Dondi has a BS from the University of Georgia, conducted post-graduate studies at the University of Alaska, and has done research and legal writing for decades. She lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Mighty Talk | Life of the 381st Bomb Group: The WWII Diary of Eighth Air Force Chaplain James Good Brownwith editor Bob Korkuc
Sunday, May 24th at 2:30 pm at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s monthly Mighty Talk series is proud to present editor Bob Korkuc, who will be discussing his book Life of the 381st Bomb Group: The World War II Diary of Eighth Air Force Chaplain James Good Brown. This program will take place on May 24th at 2:30 pm at the museum as part of the Flags for the Fallen weekend programming.
The program is free to the public, but please register at https://forms.gle/2iU4oTGC1Jg3vYjy5
About the Book
While working on his first book, Bob Korkuc became intimately familiar with the 381st Bombardment Group of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and met the group’s chaplain, James Good Brown. Brown kept a diary during his time with the bomb group (1943 to 1945) in which he chronicled the daily experiences of the men.
Years after the war, Brown self-published his diary, which today is hard to find. Through his friendship with Brown, Korkuc gained access to and chose to edit the original document so that more readers might appreciate this insightful wartime eyewitness account.
Serving in his early forties alongside men twenty years his junior—whom he called the “Mighty Men of the 381st”—Brown took part in morning briefings, shared meals with crews, and anxiously awaited their return from dangerous daylight bombing missions. Flying as a noncombatant, an unnecessary eleventh crewmember, Brown describes his own observations of a Flying Fortress combat mission over Germany. Writing with extraordinary candor, Brown documents the inner workings of a bomb group that flew 297 combat missions over Europe, providing vivid character assessments of his fellow airmen and capturing both their victories and devastating losses.
In addition to judiciously editing Brown’s original diary for readability, Korkuc created a unique appendix, which reveals the fate of every airman who served with Brown. The immediacy of Brown’s narration combined with Korkuc’s meticulous editing make this a promising new resource for scholars and general readers alike.
About the Editor
Bob Korkuc is an electrical engineer and the author of Finding a Fallen Hero: The Death of a Ball Turret Gunner. During the research and writing of this book, Korkuc became a student of the 381st Bomb Group and was privileged to learn about their exploits during World War II.
About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:
The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.
Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.
The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Reg Griffin, reg.griffin@decal.ga.gov, 404-656-0239 office
DECAL Announces Finalists for 2025–2026 Georgia’s Pre-K Program Teachers of the Year
Recognition of Excellence in Early Childhood Education
ATLANTA, Ga., (May 13, 2026) – The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is thrilled to announce the six finalists for the 2026–2027 Georgia’s Pre-K Program Teachers of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates outstanding educators who have shown exceptional dedication and innovation in early childhood education, representing high-quality programs across Jefferson, Dawsonville, West Green, Atlanta, Lilburn, and Stockbridge.
DECAL is proud to introduce the finalists:
- Leah Mays, Jefferson Elementary School in Jefferson
- Lacy Parish, Robinson Elementary in Dawsonville
- Marisol Rivas, West Green Elementary in West Green
- Skyla Holmes, Angel’s Paradise Learning Center in Atlanta
- Shawn Meyers, Sunrise Learning Academy in Lilburn
- Kellie McCormick, Cedars Preschool at Hudson Bridge in Stockbridge
These educators have demonstrated exceptional contributions to early childhood education by creating nurturing environments that foster the development and growth of young children.
Recognition and Next Steps
“Each finalist has been awarded a $500 cash prize from the Georgia Foundation for Early Care + Learning, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. Their applications underwent thorough review and scoring by a panel of impartial judges,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “As part of the next phase of evaluation, the finalists will receive classroom observations this fall, submit small group videos to be scored by external judges, and face a panel for personal interviews. These comprehensive assessments will ensure that the winners are selected based on their teaching methods and interactions with students.”
In September, DECAL will select two winners: one from a local public school system and another from a private child care center. This dual selection recognizes the diverse environments in which high-quality early childhood education is provided.
The candidates for Georgia’s Pre-K Teacher of the Year must meet specific requirements:
- Employment as a Georgia’s Pre-K lead teacher during the 2025–2026 school year
- A minimum of three years of experience teaching as a lead teacher in a Georgia’s Pre-K classroom
- Plans to continue as a lead teacher in a Georgia’s Pre-K classroom during the 2026–2027 school year
These criteria ensure that the finalists have substantial experience and are committed to continuing their work in early childhood education.
The winners will serve as ambassadors for Georgia’s Pre-K Program. Their responsibilities will include public speaking engagements, representing Georgia’s Pre-K at various meetings, and modeling effective classroom practices. By sharing their expertise and experiences, the winners will contribute to the ongoing improvement and recognition of early childhood education in Georgia.
The announcement of the finalists for the 2026–2027 Georgia’s Pre-K Program Teachers of the Year highlights the dedication and excellence of educators in the field of early childhood education. As the finalists undergo the final steps of the selection process, DECAL celebrates their achievements and looks forward to the continued impact they will have on Georgia’s Pre-K Program.
About DECAL
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is responsible for meeting the child care and early education needs of Georgia’s children and their families. It administers the nationally recognized Georgia’s Pre-K Program; licenses child care centers and home-based child care; administers Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) Program and federal nutrition programs; and manages Quality Rated, Georgia’s community-powered child care rating system.
The department also houses the Head Start State Collaboration Office, distributes federal funding to enhance the quality and availability of child care, and works collaboratively with Georgia child care resource and referral agencies and organizations throughout the state to enhance early care and education. For more information, go to www.decal.ga.gov.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Steve Forsyth, sforsyth106@gmail.com, 770-714-7750
WWII-Era B-17 and B-25 Bombers Join Fighters and Trainers at PDK Airport
PEACHTREE CITY, GA. (May 12, 2026) – The Flying Legends of Victory Tour, featuring a B-17 Flying Fortress (Sentimental Journey) and a B-25 Mitchell (Maid in the Shade), returns to Dekalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) this week for tours and rides. The aircraft, operated by Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Airbase Arizona, will join with five CAF Airbase Georgia fighters and trainers for memorable rides opportunities.
Flying Legends of Victory is the 2026 U.S. tour for the rare and iconic B-17 Flying Fortress and B-25 Mitchell. Tours of both aircraft begin Tuesday, May 12, and rides will be available May 14-17 at PDK Airport. Airbase Georgia will add five aircraft to the event, with rides available on each of them. The Georgia-based aircraft scheduled to appear are a P-51 Mustang, SBD-5 Dauntless dive bomber, LT-6 Mosquito, PT-19A Fairchild and a T-34 Mentor.
“This is an amazing opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs to experience a unique array of World War II aircraft at one location,” said Airbase Georgia Leader Mark Richards. “These events exemplify the mission of the CAF, which is to educate, inspire and honor. We are proud to honor the Greatest Generation by sharing this experience with our Arizona unit.”
FLYING LEGENDS OF VICTORY EVENT INFO & BOOK RIDES: https://www.azcaf.org/location/atlanta-ga-tour-stop/
AIRBASE GEORGIA INFORMATION AND BOOK RIDES: https://airbasegeorgia.org/event/flying-legends/
About the CAF Airbase Georgia
CAF Airbase Georgia, based at Atlanta Regional Airport -Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Ga., was founded in 1987. The Airbase is one of the largest units of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). The group maintains and flies seven vintage military aircraft including a P-51 Mustang, an FG-1D Corsair, an SBD Dauntless, an LT-6 Mosquito, a P-63A Kingcobra, a PT-19 Cornell and a T-34 Mentor. Under restoration are an N2S Stearman and P-47 Thunderbolt. The Airbase, composed of more than 300 volunteer members, is a founding partner of the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail launched in 2021. The Airbase is part of the CAF, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that relies on contributions of time and funds to conduct its mission. For more information, go to https://airbasegeorgia.org/.
About CAF Airbase Arizona
The Airbase Arizona Flying Museum, a unit of the Commemorative Air Force worldwide, has operated from its home base at historic Falcon Field in Mesa, Arizona, for over 44 years. A non-profit educational organization, the museum provides educational support to schools, exhibits, speaker programs, a national tour program, and living history flights that are uniquely inspiring experiences for young and old. Our mission: to educate, inspire, and honor!
Contact:
Brenda Tinius
(480) 285-9362
Media Focal – ‘Flying Legends of Victory Tour’
Airbase Arizona Commemorative Air Force
https://www.azcaf.org/tour/
B-17 Flying Fortress
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
(404) 506-7676 or (800) 282-1696
www.georgiapower.com
New stipulated agreement offers $285 million in annual savings for Georgia Power customers starting this summer
Savings of approximately $4 per month for the typical residential customer expected in June; Agreement subject to review and approval by the Georgia Public Service Commission
ATLANTA – May 12, 2026 – Georgia Power and the Public Interest Advocacy (PIA) Staff of the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) have reached a stipulated agreement in two cases originally filed with the Georgia PSC in February – the Fuel Cost Recovery (Docket 56765) case and Storm Cost Recovery (Docket 44280) case. The cases sought to recover the cost of fuel to operate power generation plants to serve customers and to recover costs to quickly and safely restore electric service following storms of all sizes, notably the historic Hurricane Helene in 2024.
When filed, Georgia Power announced that it expected the two cases to have a cumulative effect of lowering overall rates for customers beginning this summer if approved. Today’s stipulated agreement, which remains subject to review and approval by the Georgia PSC later this month, brings even better news for customers, with the typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month expected to save $4.04 per month, or nearly $50 per year, beginning in June. The savings, approximately $285 million per year, are the result of constructive negotiations between the company and PIA Staff, including lengthening the recovery period and leveraging additional production tax credits for the benefit of customers.
“We know that our customers depend on us to keep their power reliable and affordable every day, and to be ready to restore power safely and quickly following devastating storms like Hurricane Helene,” said Tyler Cook, CFO and treasurer for Georgia Power. “Thanks to the hard work and diligence of our teams, the Georgia PSC PIA Staff, and many others involved in this open process over the last several months, we expect to be able to provide significantly more savings than we anticipated in February when we filed these cases. Lower rates mean real savings for Georgia families and businesses as the heat of summer begins which can lead to higher bills.”
Focused on Affordable Energy & Delivering Savings
For more than 140 years, Georgia Power has worked to bring Georgians the energy they need at the lowest possible rates. Since 1990, the company has offered rates 15 percent below the national average, on average, while also offering flexible rate plans for residential and business customers, as well as a wide variety of programs to help customers save money and energy.
With new residents moving to the state and large-load customers like data centers and manufacturers choosing Georgia, Georgia Power continues to work to ensure that growth benefits all Georgia Power customers. The growing pipeline of large-load customers is a key factor that enabled the company’s earlier base rate freeze, and is helping spread fixed costs across a broader customer base and protect residential and small business customers. This growth has also allowed the company to commit to providing annual savings of $102 per year for the typical residential customer beginning in 2029.
To learn more about how Georgia Power is keeping energy reliable and affordable for millions of Georgia homes and businesses, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power offers rates below the national average, focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).
# # #
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this release is forward-looking information based on current expectations and plans that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information includes, among other things, statements concerning the potential approval of the stipulated agreement and expected customer savings. Georgia Power cautions that there are certain factors that can cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information that has been provided. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on this forward-looking information, which is not a guarantee of future performance and is subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside the control of Georgia Power; accordingly, there can be no assurance that such suggested results will be realized. The following factors, in addition to those discussed in Georgia Power’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2026 and subsequent securities filings, could cause actual results to differ materially from management expectations as suggested by such forward-looking information: the impact of pending and future rate cases and negotiations, including rate actions relating to fuel and other cost recovery mechanisms; the impact of recent and future federal and state legal and regulatory changes, including tax, environmental and other laws and regulations to which Georgia Power is subject, as well as changes in application of existing laws, regulations and guidance; current and future litigation or regulatory investigations, proceedings or inquiries; and catastrophic events such as fires, including wildfires, land movement, earthquakes, explosions, floods, high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes and other storms, solar flares, droughts, future epidemic or pandemic health events, wars, political unrest, or other similar occurrences. Georgia Power expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org
National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force Pays Tribute to Fallen Heroes with Fifth Annual Flags for the Fallen Event
Friday, May 22nd through Monday, May 25th, 2026
Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is proud to announce its sixth annual Flags for the Fallen presented by VyStar Credit Union, honoring the 26,000 Eighth Air Force airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II.
Scheduled to commence on Friday, May 22nd at 10:30 am, Flags for the Fallen: 26,000 Flags | One Mission will transform the Memorial Garden at the museum into a poignant tribute to these courageous heroes. The garden will be adorned with 26,000 48-star American flags, symbolizing the flag under which these brave individuals served, and for many, the flag beneath which they were laid to rest.
Visitors to the museum will have the opportunity to walk through the Memorial Garden and reflect upon the sacrifices made by these airmen in the name of freedom. The display will be open from Friday, May 22nd through Monday, May 25th, 2026.
Volunteers play a crucial role in bringing this tribute to life, and dedicated volunteers will be placing the flags on Wednesday, May 20th. Their efforts ensure that the memory of the fallen is honored in a meaningful and respectful manner. You can register to be a volunteer here https://forms.gle/qATZv8sSrAYZ97nXA
“We invite the community to join us as we come together to honor and remember our fallen heroes,” says Dawn Brosnan, Director of Communications and Marketing for the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. “Flags for the Fallen is not just an event; it’s a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave airmen, and we must ensure their legacy lives on.”
For more information about Flags for the Fallen and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.mightyeighth.org
About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force:
The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.
Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.
The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Georgia World War II Heritage Trail
Ed Coleman, Chair, chair@georgiawwiitrail.org, 870-613-5558
Chris Madrid, Secretary, media@georgiawwiitrail.org, 770-655-3315
Georgia World War II Heritage Trail Joins ExploreGeorgia.org as Statewide Heritage Tourism Assets
Peachtree City, GA – (May 8, 2026) — The Georgia World War II Heritage Trail (The Trail) today announced its official feature listing on Explore Georgia, signaling a new phase of growth and visibility as a statewide heritage tourism asset. The announcement reflects both the Trail’s continued expansion and broader positioning. The Trail invites Georgians and visitors alike to rediscover the state’s World War II story through a connected travel experience.
According to Georgia Department of Economic Development tourism data, Georgia’s tourism industry generates over $82 billion in annual economic impact, with heritage and cultural travel playing a central role. Nearly 9 million users visit ExploreGeorgia.org annually. Families are increasingly seeking educational, experience-driven summer trips, making the Trail a timely and compelling option.
Since its launch in 2021, the Trail has grown into a network of 12 Trail Partners and four Affiliate Partners, with additional historic locations under consideration. The Trail’s digital footprint continues to expand, with more than 15,000 website visitors since its launch in 2024 and over 4,000 Facebook and Instagram followers.
The timing is especially significant as 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States. Many Trail Partners are planning special commemorative events. Notably, the National Prisoner of War Museum and the Andersonville National Historic Site will host events connecting World War II history to the broader American story.
“This marks a milestone in the maturity of the Trail,” said Ed Coleman, Chair, Georgia World War II Heritage Trail. “Being featured on Explore Georgia affirms the collaborative work of our partners. It strengthens our ability to connect with Georgians and visitors. To paraphrase a Trail Partner, “The Trail is where Georgia’s WWII history is not only preserved but experienced.”
A Statewide Experience: From Mountains to Coast
The Trail offers a geographically diverse journey across the state:
- North Georgia: Camp Toccoa at Currahee, Currahee Military Museum, and Fort Oglethorpe Welcome Center
- Atlanta Metro: Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia
- Central Georgia: Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame, Museum of Aviation, National Infantry Museum, National Prisoner of War Museum and Thomaston Goes to War.
- Coastal Georgia: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, St. Marys Submarine Museum, and World War II Home Front Museum.
- South Georgia: World War II Flight Training Museum
Sample Family Travel Plans
North Georgia Itinerary (Toccoa)
Day 1 – Toccoa
Currahee Military Museum and Camp Toccoa at Currahee visitors can explore WWII paratroopers training grounds and experience the legacy of Currahee Mountain.
Atlanta Metro Itinerary (Peachtree City)
Day 1 – Peachtree City
Visit Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia to see operational WWII aircraft at one of the largest flying WWII collections in the Southeast.
Central Georgia Itinerary (Warner Robins, Thomaston, Andersonville, Columbus)
Day 1 – Warner Robins
Visit the second largest Air Force Museum in the Country at the Museum of Aviation. Learn about Georgia’s contribution to aviation in the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame.
Day 2- Thomaston
Spend the day being inspired at “Thomaston Goes to War” with the Upson County Historical Society and Thomaston Upson Archives. Witness one rural community contribution to Victory.
Day 3 – Andersonville
On the grounds of the Andersonville National Historic Site, the National Prisoner of War museum provides a glimpse into life after capture and an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by prisoners and their families.
Day 4 – Columbus
See 250 years of US Army Infantry history on display at the National Infantry Museum. Visit the WWII Company Street and see how soldiers lived during training for combat at Fort Benning.
Coastal Georgia Itinerary (Pooler, St. Simons, St. Marys)
Day 1 – Pooler
Start at National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Experience the air war over Europe and the legacy of the Mighty Eighth Air Force.
Day 2 – St. Simons Island
Visit the World War II Home Front Museum – highlights wartime homelife, industrial mobilization, military training, and coastal defense.
Day 3 – St. Marys
Continue to the St. Marys Submarine Museum which showcases the U.S. Navy’s silent service and its wartime role. Peer through a Class II periscope like the ones used in WWII.
South Georgia Itinerary (Douglas)
Day 1 – Douglas
Conclude your trip along the coast with a short drive inland to the World War II Flight Training Base and Museum. Visit where young men learned to fly before they were heroes.
All these routes combine destination travel, family-friendly exploration, and powerful storytelling, making it ideal for extended summer trips. Nowhere in Georgia is more than two hours from a Trail Partner.
For Aviation History Enthusiasts: A Focused Trail Experience
- Commemorative Air Force Airbase Georgia
- Georgia Aviation Hall of Frame
- Museum of Aviation
- National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
- World War II Flight Training Museum
- World War II Home Front Museum
As interest in heritage tourism continues to grow, the Trail offers a compelling way to explore Georgia’s role in World War II through immersive, place-based experiences.
To learn more, visit the Georgia World War II Heritage Trail website or follow the Trail on Facebook or Instagram to discover events, programs, and travel ideas across the state.
Explore Georgia listing: https://exploregeorgia.org/douglas/arts-culture/cultural-trails-tours/georgia-world-war-ii-heritage-trail
About the Georgia WWII Heritage Trail
The Georgia WWII Heritage Trail, established in 2021, is a collaborative network of museums and historic sites dedicated to preserving and sharing Georgia’s contributions to victory in World War II. From pilot training and shipbuilding to the stories of Infantry soldiers, prisoners of war, and home front workers, the Trail highlights the people and places that shaped the war effort. Its mission is to explore our state’s legacy of inspiring wartime stories at the museums that make up Georgia’s World War II Heritage Trail. Learn more at www.georgiawwiitrail.org.
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