International Paper, a longtime pillar of Coastal Georgia's economy, announced Thursday that it will permanently close its Savannah and Riceboro plants by the end of September and cut some 1,100 hourly and salaried jobs.

International Paper Co. has announced the closure of two Georgia paper mills, including a Savannah mill that's been a key part of the local economy for 90 years

Mayor Van R. Johnson II is hosting a virtual press briefing at 3:45 p.m. today, Aug. 21, to answer questions regarding the closing of International Paper.