Malia Thomas

1 day ago | wtxl.com | Malia Thomas

The FEAR Act creates specific charges for fentanyl-related crimes, with sentences up to 30 years. Austin Walters died from a single counterfeit pill in 2021; his parents helped pass two new Georgia laws. Watch the video to hear Austin's story. BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:As families across Georgia prepare for summer, one Valdosta couple is spending theirs looking through photo albums—remembering a son taken too soon. Austin Walters was 30, funny and full of life.

3 days ago | wtxl.com | Malia Thomas

Students in grades 3–5 lose up to 20% of their reading progress over summer break. Georgia’s 76.4% literacy rate falls just below the national average of 79%. Watch the video to see how the Wildcats on Wheels bus is helping Valdosta neighborhoods. BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:As school lets out for summer, Valdosta educators aren't just thinking about test scores or final grades—they're thinking about what happens next. Because when the books get shelved, so do reading skills.

4 days ago | wtxl.com | Malia Thomas

On May 30th, gunfire erupted at Prosper Azalea City Apartments. Police say a 15-year-old opened fire on a moving car. REACH TWO is hosting a “Save Our Youth” rally on June 14 at Mt. Vienna AME Church to engage teens and parents. Watch the video for more details on how the nonprofit is helping. BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:As summer kicks off in Valdosta, local leaders and community members are focusing on keeping our youth safe and supported. On May 30th, gunfire erupted at Prosper Azalea City Apartments.

5 days ago | wtxl.com | Malia Thomas

Pinwheels Sewing Center offers $40 beginner classes where students make practical items like pillows and totes. Manager Sasha Watson-Sirmans says sewing helps people break reliance on big companies by creating and repairing at home. Watch the video to see where you can go for classes. BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:In Valdosta, one local business is stitching more than fabric—it's stitching empowerment and self-sufficiency.

1 week ago | wtxl.com | Malia Thomas

The WaterGoat trash trap in Sugar Creek has collected over 8 full 96-gallon cans of debris this year. The May 31st cleanup runs from E. Moore Street through N. Ashley Street, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.Watch the video to see how you can help. BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:Where litter lies, nature dies. And the City of Valdosta wants you to help clean up our neighborhoods before it's too late.