SUMMARY: A tragic event occurred on Georgia’s Sapelo Island during a fall festival celebrating the Gichi community, descendants of enslaved Africans, when a dock collapsed, resulting in at least seven deaths and multiple injuries. The incident happened as crowds gathered to enjoy cultural festivities, prompting quick responses from local community members and multiple agencies. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the collapse. Both President Biden and Georgia Governor Kemp expressed their condolences, with Biden offering prayers for the victims. Despite the tragedy, community leaders remain hopeful for recovery and resilience in the Gichi community.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Walter Rabon says the collapse of the 3-year-old gangway was a structural failure.

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SUMMARY: A tragic incident occurred along Georgia’s coast when a ferry dock’s gangway collapsed, resulting in at least seven fatalities and several injuries. It was reported that around 20 individuals fell into the water during the collapse, which happened amidst a celebration for the island’s Gullah community. The incident occurred just before 4 p.m. on Saturday at Sapello Island, where many were gathered for the event. Six individuals were critically injured, with two being airlifted to hospitals. President Biden expressed condolences, while the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, in collaboration with other agencies, is investigating the incident. Updates are expected later today.

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SUMMARY: The first weekend of early voting in Georgia is underway, highlighting the vital role of poll workers in ensuring fair elections. Volunteers are responsible for proper vote counting and maintaining smooth election operations. Georgia’s Secretary of State‘s office monitors polling places closely, utilizing poll watchers designated by political parties—up to two per precinct and one for nonpartisan candidates. Unlike poll monitors, who observe external conditions, poll watchers undergo specific training to observe the vote counting process. Early voting ends on November 1st. For information on the November election, residents can text “vote” to a designated number for resources.

Poll watchers are people who observe at a polling place on Election Day or during early voting process. Here’s why Georgia uses them.

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