Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 5th of September.
Good morning, Savannah.
🏘️ Community
United Way of the Coastal Empire is launching its 2026 campaign today at the Savannah Convention Center—starting at 11 a.m.—with over 700 community members gathering to support programs across five counties.
The luncheon will unveil the campaign's fundraising goal and honor local leaders, with a special video broadcast at 5:30 p.m. on WSAV.
🚨 Crime
Two more suspects—Dahmil Johnson and Aujawan Hymon—were indicted on felony murder charges during a preliminary hearing on Wednesday at Oglethorpe Mall linked to the fatal shooting that led to the death of 69-year-old Osilene Smith when she tried to flee the scene.
Chatham County Police are investigating warrant scams that have cost victims nearly $50,000 since the year began—eight reports have been filed—and they warn that no law enforcement officer will call to demand payment to clear an arrest warrant.
Savannah Police investigated a shooting on Richards St on September 3 that injured an adult male at a residence around 11:50 p.m.—the victim was taken to Memorial Health University Medical Center and no arrests have been made.
🎭 Culture
Savannah native Ben Marshall — a graduate of Savannah Arts Academy and a staff writer on Saturday Night Live since 2021 — has been promoted to a cast member role for the upcoming season.
He has performed with the comedy trio Please Don't Destroy since Season 47 and will join new cast members including comedians Tommy Brennan and Kam Patterson along with social media stars Jeremy Culhane and Veronica Slowikowska.
🎓 Education
New and returning SCAD students have begun moving into residence halls in Savannah as over 6,000 are expected to settle in before classes start Monday, with first-year and transfer students moving in yesterday and graduate students scheduled for Saturday—local officials and Savannah Police are managing increased traffic on major streets.
🏛️ Government
On Thursday, U.S. immigration officers raided the expansive Hyundai electric vehicle manufacturing site west of Savannah, halting battery plant construction as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged unlawful employment practices—normal production at the main plant continued.
Today, the City of Savannah's Recreation and Leisure Services Department began upgrades to the Forsyth Park playground — with construction of the new Daffin Park Signature Playground set to start later this month and expected to last four months.
Port Wentworth voters will choose a new mayor and city council members in the November election as the city copes with rapid growth, heavy traffic, and old roads.
Candidates including incumbent Gary Norton, longtime resident Georgia Benton, and teacher Tracy Saunders are promising fixes and improvements — giving residents hope for change.
🎉 Savannah Events
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Soul & Flavor Food Truck Fest
12-6 p.m. — Eastern Wharf — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine, and community at the 2nd Annual Soul & Flavor Food Truck Fest.
Catfish Derby & Riverfest
1 PM - 12 AM — River Street Savannah Georgia — Free entry — Celebrate local culture with fishing competitions and live music from popular artists.
Adoption Event at Petco
1-3 p.m. — Petco — Free entry — Meet adorable pets looking for their forever homes and learn how you can make a difference.
2025 Global Business Summit
9 AM – 1 PM — World Trade Center Savannah — Registration required — Explore global business opportunities at this inaugural summit in Savannah.
Yachtley Crew Concert
8-10 p.m. — Johnny Mercer Theatre — Tickets starting at $202 — Experience the Titans of soft rock in a night of nostalgia and high-energy entertainment.
The Frank Callen Classic Pickleball Tournament
4-8 p.m. — Chatham Racquet Club — $100 entry — Compete in a thrilling pickleball tournament while supporting the Frank Callen Boys and Girls Club.
Oktoberfest Celebration 2025
12-8:30 p.m. — Service Brewing Co. — Special beer releases — Celebrate the start of Oktoberfest with German-style beers and delicious food.
Mario Live Concert
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Enmarket Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the smooth sounds of R&B artist Mario as he performs live.
Savannah Oktoberfest 2025
4-11 p.m. — Pour Larry's — Ticket required — Celebrate Oktoberfest with drinks, food, and live music at a top bar venue.
7th Annual Oatland Island Wildlife Center Photography Competition
3 PM — Oatland Island Wildlife Center — Entry fees applicable — Celebrate coastal nature with a showcase of stunning photography.
🏠 Savannah Real Estate
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📣 Savannah Announcements
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