Loganville City Hall bursts with holiday cheer as the annual Festival of Trees transforms the building into a colorful winter wonderland.

Dozens of local businesses, churches, civic groups, and clubs have brought their unique touch, decorating Christmas trees with themes that range from classic to whimsical.

Beneath the cheerful décor lies a deeper purpose: the festival doubles as a community food drive with a fun, competitive spin.

Visitors vote for their favorite tree by placing non-perishable food items underneath it—a creative way to spark giving during the holiday season.

All collected food goes to Shepherd’s Staff, a vital local ministry supporting residents facing hunger.

Every donation stays local, providing a direct impact while fostering unity, creativity, and giving among Loganville neighbors throughout the festive season.

Loganville celebrated a milestone as Branden Whitfield was sworn in as the city’s new mayor, signaling the end of Skip Baliles’ tenure and the beginning of new leadership.

New council members Keith Colquitt and Wesley Johnson joined returning Councilwoman Melanie Long in taking their oaths at a packed City Hall ceremony.

The event took place before the final City Council meeting of the year, allowing residents to witness a smooth transition and show gratitude for outgoing officials.

Although terms begin January 1, 2026, today marked the official handoff and sparked optimism for Loganville’s growth.

Mayor Whitfield expressed appreciation for community support and promised transparency and unity as Loganville faces rapid change. The new leaders are poised to begin their terms, focused on guiding the city’s future.

Walton County is experiencing robust growth and positive momentum, as detailed in Chairman David G. Thompson’s State of the County address at the local Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

Population is projected to reach 112,806 residents by 2025, thanks to a surge in jobs, low 3.28% unemployment, and household incomes rising above the national median.

The county remains one of Georgia’s most attractive places to live, bolstered by a violent crime rate dramatically lower than the U.S. average.

Major projects underway include The Grove Park, an expansive recreational facility opening in January 2026, a new water treatment facility coming by 2028, and a recently finished expansion for the Walton County Jail and Sheriff’s Office.

With a $101 million budget prioritizing public safety and key services, Walton County leaders are focusing on balanced, strategic growth.

A spirit of gratitude and optimism prevails as the county strives for continued success and a high quality of life for all residents.

MONROE, Ga. — Dr. Vimal Patel, D.O., has been named the new chief medical officer for Piedmont Walton Hospital, effective January.

He brings extensive clinical and administrative expertise from his current post at Piedmont Mountainside Hospital, where he leads medical staff operations, credentialing, and patient safety programs.

Dr. Patel will transition to the Monroe hospital while continuing his current leadership duties.

CEO Blake Watts emphasized Dr. Patel’s proven track record and dedication to clinical excellence, calling him a valuable addition.

Previously, Dr. Patel served as hospitalist medical director at Mountainside, focusing on improved patient outcomes and infection prevention, and provided direct patient care at facilities in Georgia and Florida.

His education includes degrees from the University of Missouri and Lincoln Memorial University, with advanced training at the University of Tennessee.

The hospital cites his leadership as key to advancing patient-centered care and quality.