Savannah Community News Connection

Stay in the know about the latest activities and achievements in our local community. Here in Savannah, we are fostering unity and development through the facilitation of arts and culture, and a celebration of local talents and victories.

Spotlight, Arts and Cultural Enrichment Programs Now Open for Applications

The Savannah Cultural Arts Center has begun accepting applications for the Spotlight Facility Use and Arts and Cultural Enrichment programs. The Spotlight Facility Use Program allows non-profit organizations to rent the Savannah Cultural Arts Center either for free or at a discounted rate on select dates throughout the year. Applications for programming ranging from dance, film, to theater are now being accepted for four dates in September through November of this year.

Information Session on Spotlight

An information session for Spotlight will be held on Thursday, July 11, at 12:30 p.m. This session is offered virtually via Zoom or in person at the Savannah Cultural Arts Center, 201 Montgomery St. Interested applicants are encouraged to show up in person to get a feel of the theater space. You can RSVP for the event by email at info@spotlight.com.

Arts and Cultural Enrichment (ACE) Program

The City of Savannah’s ACE program provides funding to non-profits for programming that expands access to art, history, culture, and creativity to diverse audiences in Savannah. Applications are open for programming taking place in 2025. The Cultural Resources department website provides a recording of the ACE information session for review. Applications for both programs are due on July 28 at 5 p.m. You may visit savannahga.gov/arts for the guidelines, applications, and other program information.

Georgia Southern and A Summer Celebration

Georgia Southern President Kyle Marrero and First Lady Jane Marrero have announced that the university will host A Summer Celebration for faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the community. The event will span three days and take place on each of the university’s three campuses. The celebrations offer guests fresh fruit as well as Leopold’s ice cream. These events are free and open to the public.

The celebrations date back to a university tradition started by Georgia Southern President Zach Henderson in 1948 to provide a refreshing treat to the students, faculty, and staff who remain on campus during the hot summer months. It is a great way for everybody to mingle and have fun while also showcasing local harvests.

A Summer Celebration Dates and Locations

• Statesboro: July 8 from 10–11 a.m. | Statesboro Campus (on the Pedestrium near the Carruth Building), 6611 Forest Dr.
• Hinesville: July 9 from 10–11 a.m. | Liberty Campus (outside of Student Commons), 175 W. Memorial Dr.
• Savannah: July 10 from 10–11 a.m. | Armstrong Campus (on the Quad by the fountain), 11935 Abercorn St.

Truman Linear Park Trail

The final part of the Truman Linear Park Trail in Savannah has begun construction. Once completed, the total connected pathway will be approximately nine miles. It will offer more opportunities for safe, stress-free pedestrian and bicycle access for many of Savannah’s minority and underserved neighborhoods. On July 1, groundbreaking ceremonies for the final part of the Truman Linear Park Trail commenced.