NEW T-U REC DIRECTOR TO BE HIRED

 UPSON  COUNTY'S  MANAGER LONNIE JOYCE HAS  ANNOUNCED  HE  PLANS  TO  HIRE  A  NEW  RECREATION  DIRECTOR  IN  THE  NEXT  FEW  DAYS.  CITY  AND  COUNTY  OFFICIALS  HAVE  BEEN  INVOLVED  IN  INTERVIEWING  THE    7  OR  SO  APPLICANTS FOR  THE  JOB--HE  SAID.  THE  TWO  GOVERNING  BODIES  AGREED  TO CONTINUE  WITH  THE  CITIZENS  RECREATION  ADVISORY  BOARD--RECENTLY  AND  COUNTY  COMMISSIONER BEN  WATSON  TOLD   101  NEWS , ITS  WORKING.

SPECIAL ELECTION FOR DISTRICT 18 STATE SENATE IN UPSON, MONROE, CRAWFORD, PEACH, BIBB, HOUSTON COUNTIES

 A  SPECIAL  ELECTION  WILL  BE  HELD   TUESDAY  JAN.  20,  2026   IN  UPSON, MONROE, CRAWFORD,  PEACH  AND PORTIONS OF  BIBB  AND  HOUSTON  COUNTIES  FOR  GA.  SENATE  DISTRICT 18  WITH  THE  RESIGNATION OF  SENATOR  JOHN  KENNEDY  WHO  IS  RUNNING  FOR  LT.  GOVERNOR  IN  2026. QUALIFYING  WILL  BE  HELD  MONDAY  DEC.  15TH THRU  WED. DEC.  17TH  AT  THE  GA.  SECRETARY  OF  STATE'S OFFICES IN  ATLANTA.  ACCORDING  TO  UPSON COUNTY  ELECTIONS  SUPERINTENDANT  PAM RELEFORD    QUALIFYING  FEE  $400.  MONDAY,  DEC.  22ND  IS  THE LAST  DAY  TO REGISTER  TO  VOTE  AND  IN  ADVANCE  VOTING  WILL  BEGIN  MONDAY  DEC.  29TH.

UPSON BOC DENIES APPEAL FOR SUBDIVISION ON ROLAND ROAD

 AT  TUESDAY'S  MEETING  THE  UPSON COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  DENIED  AN  APPEAL  FROM  10  ACRES  LAKE  LLC  ON  ROLAND  ROAD   FOR  A  DECISION  BY  THE  PLANNING  COMMISSION  ON  A  PRELIMINARY  PLAT  FOR  A  SUBDIVISON  PLAN.   THE  COMMISSIONERS  ALSO  APPROVED  THE 2026  BUDGET  AT   THEIR  LAST  SCHEDULED  MEETING  OF  THE  YEAR.  COUNTY  MANAGER  LONNIE JOYCE  TOLD   101  NEWS  NO  PROPERTY  TAX  INCREASE  ANTICIPATED  IN  THE 26  BUDGET  BUT  SOLID  WASTE  COLLECTION  RATES  WILL  BE  INCREASED  TO  GET  THE  COUNTY  OUT OF  THE  RED  ON  THE  ITEM.

TWO FINALIST FOR GRIFFIN-SPALDING SCHOOL SUPERINTENDANT

 GRIFFIN, GA – The Board of Education has named two finalists for the position of Superintendent of Schools for the Griffin-Spalding County School System (GSCS). The finalists are GSCS Interim Superintendent Dr. Donald Warren and Dr. Stephanie Johnson, current Georgia Department of Education Office of School and District Improvement Deputy Superintendent/Chief Turnaround Officer.

A town hall meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 6, from 6-8 p.m. in the Griffin Auditorium (234 E Taylor St, Griffin, GA 30224) for stakeholders to hear from both finalists. The Board of Education plans to name the next superintendent on January 13.

“These finalists bring a wealth of leadership experience. They both possess attributes needed to move our school system forward,” said Board of Education Chairman R. Syntel Brown. “Our board has worked meticulously as we seek to identify the best possible leader to serve as the next superintendent of GSCS.”

The board worked with Georgia School Boards Association Search Director Dr. Samuel King to identify the characteristics desired in the new superintendent; adopted qualifications for the position; approved a recruitment announcement; reviewed applications and interviewed candidates that appeared to have closely met the qualifications.

After a nationwide search, the board narrowed the pool of applicants down to two finalists. These finalists have been identified by the board as the most qualified candidates for the role. Documents submitted as part of each candidate’s application will be available for public inspection and copying, as required by law, on the school district website at www.gscs.org.  

In accordance with O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(11), the board is naming the finalists at least 14 calendar days prior to the meeting at which a final vote will be taken.

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UPSON'S STATE SENATOR RESIGNING TO CONCENTRATE ON LT. GOV RACE

 Macon, GA – Today, State Senator John F. Kennedy (SD-18) announced that he will be resigning his seat in the Georgia State Senate, effective immediately. 

“It has been an incredible honor to serve and represent the 18th District in the Georgia State Senate these past 11 years,” said Senator John F. Kennedy. “I want to thank the people of Crawford, Monroe, Peach, Upson, Bibb and Houston counties for their trust and support as we’ve worked together to deliver historic conservative results for Middle Georgia and our state as a whole. 

“The 18th District deserves a senator this upcoming legislative session who will be entirely focused on their needs and their priorities—not a statewide campaign—and it is my hope that the timing of my resignation will ensure they have representation under the Gold Dome during this session. When Susan and I decided to announce my campaign for Lt. Governor, we knew this race would take our full focus and commitment because that’s what the people of our state deserve. It is clear to me that continuing my service in the state senate while also running for Lt. Governor would be a disservice to both my constituents and the thousands of hardworking Georgians who have pledged their support for our vision for this state. 

“2026 is a critical election for the future of our state and I look forward to continuing our campaign’s momentum to keep Georgia growing, learning, and safe for generations to come.”

Kennedy was elected to the Georgia State Senate in 2014 where he would work his way up from being a Governor’s Floor Leader to being unanimously elected by all 55 members of the State Senate to serve as President Pro Tempore - the second highest position in the Senate. 

During his time in office, Senator John F. Kennedy has been an effective leader in the Senate Chamber and legislative partner to Governor Brian Kemp and Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones—helping deliver a conservative agenda that includes:

• Passing the largest income tax cut in Georgia history
• Providing property tax relief for Georgia homeowners
• Raising pay for educators and law enforcement
• Strengthening Georgia’s ban on sanctuary cities
• Prohibiting boys from playing in girls sports

Kennedy also sponsored and passed meaningful tort reform legislation and Georgia’s first Anti-semitism law.
 

 

IN UPSON COUNTY BISHOP ROAD IS NOW OPEN

 

FLY FOR EMPTY STOCKING FUND POSTPONED

 THE  FLY  FOR  TOYS  FUNDRAISER  FOR  EMPTY  STOCKING  FUND  POSTPONED  UNTIL  SAT.  DEC. 13 DUE  TO  WEATHER--8AM  TILL  3PM AT  THE  T-U  AIRPORT  SPONSORED  BY  WEST CENTRAL  GA. FLYING  CLUB  AND  THE  AIRPORT.  BRING  A  TOY  OR  CASH DONATION (ADULTS  $20/CHILDREN 16  AND  UNDER  $10 ) TO  RECEIVE  A  FREE FLIGHT  OVER  THOMASTON --LEAVE  GIFTS  UNWRAPPED.    PANCAKE  BREAKFAST  8AM  TILL  10AM  WITH  DONATION.

THOMASTON CITY COUNCIL MET DEC. 2ND

 MAYOR  PRO TEM TROY  CHANEY  PRESIDED  IN  THE  ABSENCE  OF  MAYOR  J.D. STALLINGS  AT  THE  DEC  2ND  MEETING  OF  THE  THOMASTON  CITY  COUNCIL  AND  THERE  WAS  NO  PUBLIC  COMMENT  DURING  A  PUBLIC  HEARING  ON  THE  2026  BUDGET.  MAYOR  PRO   TEM  CHANEY  ADMINISTRATED  THE  OATH OF  OFFICE  FOR  NEW  FIRE  FIGHTERS--HUNTER  TUCKER, BRETAVIAN  CARTER  AND  BEN  HEFTON. AMONG  THE  ITEMS  APPROVED--BID  AWARD  TO  COGGINS  CONSTRUCTION  CO  FOR  AVE. N.  STORMWATER  ROAD  REPAIRS--$219,000.

2ND  READ  AND  UNANIMOUS  VOTE    FOR  A  SPECIAL  USE  PERMIT  AT  904  NORTH  HIGHTOWER  ST.  FOR  A  SCRAP  METAL  RECYCLING  FACILITY.

AMONG  THE APPOINTMENTS--CPA--SYDNEY  SHARPE  TO  THE  IDA-  REAPPOINTMENTS  TO  THE  ZONING  COMMISSION  STEVE  SHORT,  PRISCILLA  MCCOY AND  SANDY  KERSEY.

KAREN  RAINES  TO  THE  JOINT  REC  ADVISORY  BOARD,  JOHN  WILLIAMS  TO  THE  AIRPORT  AUTHORITY  AND  MAYOR  PRO  TEM   TROY  CHANEY  TO  THE  DOWNTOWN  DEVELOPMENT  AUTHORITY. 

ECONOMIC  DEVELOPMENT  DIRECTOR TAYLOR  SMITH  GAVE  A  PRESENTATION  ON  A  TAX  ALLOCATION  DISTRICT--SOMETHING  THAT  WILL  REQUIRE    ACTION  BY    THE  GA.  GENERAL  ASSEMBLY  AND A  VOTE  BY  CITIZENS--BUT  COULD  HELP  REHAB EAST  THOMASTON.

PIKE CO TIMES.COM REPORTS A NEW POLICE CHIEF FOR ZEBULON

 ZEBULON - The City of Zebulon is proud to announce the official appointment of Tony Howard as the new Chief of Police for the Zebulon Police Department, effective January 5, 2026. Chief Howard brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and dedication to public service in this esteemed role.

Mayor Joe Walter expressed his confidence in the new appointment, stating, “After a lengthy selection process, I am please to announce Mr. Tony Howard as our new Chief of Police. The Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police compiled a list of candidates to be considered for the position and assisted the City with testing and background research on all the candidates. I want to thank Interim Chief James Morgan for helping us stabilize the department and provide leadership until a permanent chief could be selected. I also want to emphasize how professional our police department has been during this time of transition and how dedicated they have been to serving and patrolling the community.”

Mayor Walter is confident that the residents and business owners will be pleased with the addition of Chief Howard to the Department and is looking forward to a seamless transition. “GACP’s assistance made the process very smooth. The Council and I believed that binging in an outside agency to assist in the selection process would provide someone with a different perspective and we are pleased with the results.”

Chief Howard brings over 30 years of service in various roles of law enforcement, being honored with many awards and accolades, including the Michael K. Conner Public Service Award for exemplary leadership and outstanding service on behalf of Weed and Seed communities. Beyond his professional achievements, Chief Howard has served over the safety ministry at Timothy Baptist Church, an Executive Board Member of the Clarke County Mentor Program, and a member of Felony Drug Court.

The City of Zebulon is excited to welcome our new police chief, Tony Howard, who brings a wealth of experience and dedication to public service. His appointment is a significant step forward for the Zebulon Police Department, and we are looking forward to his leadership.

UPSON CO PROBATE JUDGE MUFFIN GIBSON ON HER RUN-OFF VICTORY

​

This is Upson County Probate Judge Muffin Gibson.

My heart is full today. I am truly humbled and deeply grateful to share the incredible blessing of winning the probate judge runoff election. Thank you to everyone who prayed for me, encouraged me, supported me, and took the time to vote. Your belief in me has touched me more than I can ever put into words.

To my wonderful husband, my family, my staff, and my friends,  your love, your strength, and your constant support carried me through this entire journey. And above all, I thank the Good Lord for His guidance, His grace, and His steady hand over my life and this campaign.

I am here to serve this community with compassion, integrity, and experience. Thank you for trusting me, for standing beside me, and for giving me the honor of continuing to serve you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you Upson County. 

Upson County Probate Judge Muffin Gibson  

INCUMBENT MUFFIN GIBSON WINS RUN-OFF FOR UPSON CO PROBATE JUDGE

 INCUMBENT  MUFFIN  GIBSON  WAS  ELECTED   AS  UPSON  COUNTY  PROBATE  JUDGE  IN  TUESDAY'S    RUN-OFF  ELECTION.  JUDGE  GIBSON  POLLED   1508  VOTES    57  POINT 45% AND  CHALLENGER  DUSTIN  FORDHAM  RECEIVED  1117  VOTES 42 POINT 55%.  GIBSON  CARRIED  EVERY  PRECINCT  EXCEPT  SALEM    AND  SHE  CARRIED  THE  EARLY  VOTING. JUDGE  GIBSON  WAS  SERVING  AS  INTERIM  PROBATE  JUDGE  AFTER  PREVIOUS  PROBATE  JUDGE  DANIELLE  MCRAE   RESIGNED.  

UPSON CO ROAD CLOSED/BISHOP ROAD TILL FURTHER NOTICE

 

CITY OF THOMASTON CHECK THEFT

 ON   THE  THOMASTON  POLICE  BLOTTER--A  CASE  OF  CHECK  FRAUD   INVOLVING  THE  CITY  OF  THOMASTON   UNDER  INVESTIGATION  BY  THE   CID  UNIT.  THE  REPORT  SAID  A  CHECK  FOR $3952  WAS  MAILED    BY  THOMASTON  CITY  HALL    THROUGH  THE US  MAIL  TO  A  KENNESAW, GA.  COMPANY--AND  IT  WAS  STOLEN  FROM  THE  MAIL  AND  ALTERED.  IT  WAS  MADE  OUT  TO  A   TAKEIM   HENDERSON  OF  RIVERDALE, GA.  FOR  THE   ORIGINAL  AMOUNT. .

UPSON COUNTY DELINQUENT TAX SALE

 ACCORDING  TO  UPSON  COUNTY   TAX  COMMISSIONER  ANDY  CHASTAIN  THE  COUNTY'S  DELINQUENT   TAX  SALE  IS  TUESDAY  MORNING   10AM  AT  THE  CIVIC  CENTER. ANYONE  INTERESTED  IN  BIDDING  ON  ANY  PROPERTIES SHOULD  COME  BY  THE  TAX  COMMISSIONER'S  OFFICE  BY  9;30AM  TUESDAY  TO  SIGN  UP  OR  SIGN  UP  AT   THE  CIVIC  CENTER  PRIOR  TO  THE  START  OF  THE  SALE. 

MR. OLDS FOUND AND IS OK/TPD

 THOMASTON  POLICE  CHIEF  MIKE RICHARDSON  SAYS A  MISSING  VULNERABLE  ADULT--82-YIEAR  OLD  MARIOT  OLDS   FROM  HARBORVIEW  NURSING  HOME  HAS  BEEN  LOCATED  IN  NORTH  CAROLINA   AND  IS  OK  WITH  FAMILY THERE.

MR.  OLDS  WENT  MISSING  AT  HARBORVIEW  NURSING  HOME  IN  THOMASTON NOV.  22ND  AND  POLICE WERE  CONTACTED  BY  HIS  DAUGHTER  IN  GEORGIA  THAT  HE MIGHT  BE  WITH  UNAUTHORIZED  RELATIVES  IN NORTH  CAROLINA.  THE  VA  AIDED TPD  AND  AUTHORITIES  IN  NORTH  CAROLINA  HELPED    IN  LOCATING  MR.  OLDS  AND  WAS  FOUND  WITH  FAMILY TUESDAY.  HE  SUFFERS  FROM DEMENTIA  AND  HAS DIABETES  BUT  LEFT  THOMASTON  WITHOUT  HIS  MEDS.  CHIEF  RICHARDSON  SAID  THE  PD  SPENT  ABOUT  A  DAY  AND  A  HALF   IN MAN-HOURS  TO  LOCATE MR.OLDS.

SPALDING ZONING BD NO ACTION ON REZONING FOR DATA CENTER

 THE  SPALDING  COUNTY  ZONING  BOARD    TOOK     NO ACTION TUESDAY  AND  VOTED  UNANIMOUSLY  TO  DELETE  THE  ITEMS  ON  THE  AGENDA--INCLUDING  A  REZONING  REQUEST  FOR  A   3RD  DATA  CENTER IN  THE  COUNTY AT  WALLACE JACKSON INDUSTRIAL  PARK AT  JACKSON  ROAD  AND WALLACE  ROAD.  THE  PLAN  IS  TO  BUILD  10   MAIN   BUILDINGS  WHICH  WOULD  MAKE IT  TWICE  AS  LARGE  AS  THE  PREVIOUS  TWO. 

PIKE SO BUSTS NARCOTICS RING

 he Pike County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation West Georgia Gang Task Force wrapped up a months long drug investigation today. The investigation centered on the distribution of narcotics from several residences in the Concord area. Four search warrants were executed in Pike County along with one in Upson County and one in Clayton County. Eight arrests have been made so far , with more expected. Quantities of narcotics , cash and guns have been seized during the execution of these warrants. 

A special thank you to the Georgia Bureau Of Investigation, Upson County Narcotics Task Force, Clayton County Police Department, Georgia State Patrol, and Georgia Department of Corrections for all of their work on this investigation.

The following people are currently in custody:

Poston, Jeffrey Bryan 

Age 62 

730 Hill St., Concord, GA 

1) Felony use of communication during commission of a felony in involving controlled substance 16 – 13– 32.3(A) 

2) Attempt or conspiracy to violate Georgia controlled substance act 16 – 13– 33

 

Smith, Nelson Tyrone

Age 50 

41 2nd St., Concord, GA

1) Felony use of communication and commission of a felony involving control substance 16 – 13– 32.3(A) 

2) Charge felony attempt or conspiracy to violate Georgia Control substance act 16 – 13– 33

 

Flemister, Ronnie Cornelius 

Age 43 

Williams Drive, Concord, GA

1) Felony use of communication and commission of a felony involving control substance 16 – 13– 32.2(A) 

2) Felony attempt or conspiracy to violate Georgia Control substance act 16 – 13– 33

 

Mays, Jamayain 

Age 24

58 Martin Luther King Jr. Circle, Zebulon, Georgia 

1) Conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance,  OCGA 16-13-33

2) Felony use of communication during commission of a felony in involving controlled substance 16 – 13– 32.3(A) 

 

Williams, Fredrick 

Age 56

84 Belmont Park Drive, Newnan, GA

1) Conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, OCGA 16-13-33

2) Felony use of communication during commission of a felony in involving controlled substance 16- 13- 32.3 

 

Andrews, Toccara Yvette

Age 43

801 Redland Drive, Jonesboro  

1) Conspiracy to traffic a controlled substance, methamphetamine, OCGA 16-13-33

 

Chasing, Christine 

Age 74

2391 Green Street, Concord, GA. 

1) Felony use of communication during commission of a felony in involving controlled substance 16- 13- 32.3 

 

Gates, Calvin L.

Age 60

219 Hillcrest Street, Concord, GA

1) Felony use of communication during commission of a felony in involving controlled substance 16-13-32.3

2) Conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, OCGA 16-13-33

Additional charges are pending.

*  There will be a future press release on this event at the appropriate time and mug shots will be made available 

GHSA PUNISHES BOTH SCHOOLS IN FOOTBALL FIGHT

 101  NEWS  HAS  BEEN  TOLD  THE  GAINESVILLE  SCHOOL SYSTEM  MIGHT  SEEK  AN  INJUNCTION  IN  UPSON  SUPERIOR COURT  TO  GET   35  PLAYERS  REINSTATED  THAT  THE  GA.  HIGH  SCHOOL  ASSOCIATION SUSPENDED  AFTER A  FIGHT  DURING  THE  GAME  WITH  BRUNSWICK FRIDAY  NIGHT--A  GAINESVILLE  BLOW  OUT.

GHSA  PUNISHED  BOTH  SCHOOLS -- BRUNSWICK 41   PLAYERS SUSPENDED  A  ONE YEAR  PLAY-OFF  BAN  AND  A  $5000  FINE.  GAINESVILLE  39  PLAYERS  SUSPENDED AND  A  $5000  FINE.  DURING A  HEARING  TUESDAY  GHSA  DROPPED  THE  SUSPENSION OF  4  GAINESVILLE PLAYERS  AND  THE  SCHOOL  HAS  INDICATED  IT  WILL  EXHAUST  ALL  LEGAL  REMEDIES  TO  REINSTATE  THE   35  PLAYERS   UNDER  SUSPENSION  SO  THEY  CAN  PLAY  AGAINST  LANGSTON  HUGHES  IN  THE  QUARTER FINALS--FRIDAY.

DURING  THE  HEARING  GAINESVILLE  SUPT. JEREMY  WILLIAMS  ARGUED  THE  GHSA  MIS-INTERPRETED  VIDEO EVIDENCE  AND  THAT   MOST   SUSPENDED PLAYERS  WERE  NOT  TRYING  TO  ESCALATE  THE  ALTERCATION--AND  HE  CRITICIZED OFFICIALS  FOR  NOT  CONTROLLING  THE  SITUATION  EARLIER.

GHSA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR  TIM  SCOTT  EMPHASIZED  THAT  SIDELINE  DEPARTURE  RULES  HAD  TO BE ENFORCED  REGARDLESS  OF  CIRCUMSTANCES. 

PIKE CO BOC SUBDIVISION PUBLIC HEARING

 A  REZONING APPLICATION FOR   A  43-LOT SINGLE-FAMILY  SUBDIVISION  AT  CAMPGROUND  ROAD  AND  HIGHWAY  18  IN  ZEBULON    WAS   WITHDRAWN  FROM  THE  AGENDA  OF  THE  PIKE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  AT    TUESDAY'S  6;30  MEETING.  COUNTY  CLERK  ANGELA  BLOUNT  SAID  THE  COUNTY   RECEIVED  A  FORMAL  WITHDRAWAL  REQUEST  FROM  THE  APPLICANT  JASON   BETSILL  OWNER OF  THE  82  ACRES. 

UGA FOOTBALL PLAYER DISMISSED FROM TEAM

 A  UGA  FOOTBALL  PLAYER   FROM  NEW  JERSEY--OFFENSIVE  LINEMAN NYI ER  DANIELS  HAS  BEEN  DISMISSED  FROM  THE  TEAM  AFTER  BEING  CAUGHT  IN  COMMERCE  DRIVING  OVER   100  MILES  PER  HOUR  OVER  THE  WEEKEND.  THE  6-8  350  POUND   RED-SHIRT  FRESHMAN  FACES  SEVERAL  TRAFFIC  CHARGES.

INTERFOR BOND ISSUE APPROVED IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT

 IN  A  COURT  PROCEEDING  LASTING  ONLY  ABOUT  FIVE  MINUTES  MONDAY,  UPSON  COUNTY  SUPERIOR  COURT  JUDGE  BENJAMIN  COKER  VALIDATED  A  $165  MILLION  BOND  ISSUE  FROM  THE  IDA    FOR  INTERFOR  FORESTRY PRODUCTS  TO  INSTALL  A   NEW  PLANER  MILL  COMPLEX  AT  THE  PLANT OFF  36  EAST.

SPALDING BOC HEARING ON NEW DATA CENTER TUESDAY

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  THE  SPALDING  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  WILL  HOLD  A  PUBLIC  HEARING  ON  A  THIRD  PROPOSED  DATA  CENTER  TUESDAY   NOV. 25   on  127  ACRES  AT  SOUTH  MCDONOUGH  ROAD  AND HIGHWAY  16.  SPALDING  INVESTMENTS LLC  IS  THE  PROPERTY  OWNER  AND  DEVELOPER  FOR  A  DATA  CENTER  OF  1.42  MILLION  FEET.  THERE  IS  ALSO  AN ADDITONAL  POWER  STATION  ON  THE  SITE.  THE  SPALDING  COMMISSIONERS  PREVIOUSLY  APPROVED  TWO  OTHER  DATA  CENTERS  BUT  THE  THIRD  ONE  IS  MORE  SQUARE  FEET  THAT  THE  PREVIOUS   TWO  COMBINED.  THE NEW  DATA CENTER  COULD  BE  APPROVED  AT  THE  COMMISSIONERS  ZONING  MEETING  DEC. 15TH. 

INTERFOR SHUTTING DOWN IN UPSON CO TILL FEB.

 INTERFOR  THE  CANADIAN  FORESTRY  PRODUCTS    COMPANY   WITH  A  LUMBER  SAW MILL OFF  36 EAST   IN  UPSON  COUNTY   HAS  ANNOUNCED  IT WILL  BE  SHUT DOWN   FRIDAY  NOV. 21ST  THRU   FEB.  7TH   AND    HAS  REQUESTED  A $165 MILLION   INDUSTRIAL  REVENUE   BOND   ISSUE  FROM  THE  THOMASTON-UPSON  INDUSTRIAL  DEVELOPMENT  AUTHORITY  WITH    $85  MILLION  OF  THE   FUNDING  TO  BE  USED  FOR  A  NEW PLANER MILL  COMPLEX.  NEW  EQUIPMENT   INSTALLATION  REPORTEDLY  IS  PLANNED  DURING  THE  SHUT  DOWN  PERIOD. 

THE  ATTORNEY  FOR  THE  IDA  JOHNNY  CALDWELL  TOLD   101  NEWS  A  BOND  VALIDATION  HEARING FOR  INTERFOR    WILL  BE  HELD  MONDAY  IN  THE  COURTROOM  OF  SUPERIOR  COURT  JUDGE  BENJAMIN  COKER  AND  TWO  MEMBERS  OF  THE  IDA  WILL  BE PRESENT  TO  TESTIFY IF  NEEDED.   IDA    EXECUTIVE  DIRECTOR     SLADE  GULLEDGE  WILL  ALSO  ATTEND.

INTERFOR  HAD  EARLIER  REQUESTED  A  BOND  ISSUE  OF  $115  MILLION   BUT  COVID  AND OTHER  ISSUES  DELAYED  A  PLANNED  EXPANSION  OF  THE  OPERATION--SO  ADDITIONAL  FUNDING  WAS  ADDED  FOR  A  $165  BOND  ISSUE.  THE COMPANY'S  ATTORNEY  BENJAMIN  BROOKS  OF  SMITH-GAMBRELL-RUSSELL  LAW  FIRM  IN  ATLANTA  TOLD  THE  IDA  CITY AND  COUNTY GOVERNMENTS  AND  THE IDA  WILL  NOT  BE  COMMITTED   TO   ANY  FUNDING--THE  COMPANY  WILL  SEEK  ITS OWN FINANCING. 

T-U IDA LOOKING TO HELP ALDORA MILLS EMPLOYEES FIND NEW JOBS

 CHASE  FALLIN  CHAIRMAN  OF  THE  THOMASTON-UPSON  IDA    DURING  THE  NOVEMBER  MEEETING   MENTIONED  HELPING  OUT  EMPLOYEES OF  ALDORA  MILLS   IN  BARNESVILLE     FIND  OTHER  JOBS  AS  THE  COMPANY  HAS  ANNOUNCED  ITS  CLOSING  THE  MILL    BY  THE  END  OF    2026.  ACCORDING  TO   THE  MILLS  OWNER  CONTINENTIAL  TIRE  THE  FACILITY  EMPLOYS  ABOUT   230  PEOPLE  AND  THE  COMPANY  SAID THE  PLANT   HAS NOT  BEEN  COST  COMPETITIVE  FOR  MANY  YEARS DESPITE CONTINUOUS  TURNAROUND  EFFORTS.  THE  COMPANY  HAS   SEVERAL  PLANTS  IN THE  U.S.  AND  EMPLOYS  MORE  THAN  8800  PEOPLE  NATION-WIDE.   LAST  YEAR  CONTINENTIAL  BROKE  GROUND   ON  ITS  FIRST  FULLY  OWNED  TIRE  DISTRIBUTION  CENTER  IN  THE  DALLAS-FT. WORTH  METROPLEX  SCHEDULED  TO  OPEN  IN  2026.  THE  NEW  FACILITY  WILL  ENHANCE  SERVICE LEVELS  AND  CUSTOMER  SUPPORT  ACROSS THE  REGION,  COMPLEMENTING  THE  7  PARTNER-OWNED  DISTRIBUTIONS  CENTERS  THAT  CURRENTLY  SERVE  THE  U.S. MARKET--ACCORDING  TO  A  COMPANY  PRESS  RELEASE.  

DEER HUNTER BADLY BURNED IN SOUTHERN UPSON

 ACCORDING  TO  UPSON  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DAN  KILGORE  A  METRO  ATLANTA  MAN  WAS  LIFE-FLIGHTED  TO  GRADY  MEMORIAL   HOSPITAL  AFTER  BEING    BADLY  BURNED  AT  A  DEER  CAMP  AT  19  SOUTH  AND  ALLEN  ROAD  ON  THE  PROPERTY  OF  JUDY  GREENE.  THE  VICTIM,  PARKS  KENNERLY OF  KENNESAW,GA  TOLD  DEPUTIES  HE  WAS  STARTING  A  FIRE  WHEN  SOMETHING  EXPLODED   AND  HE  WAS   COVERED  IN  FLAMES  AND   HIS TRUCK/ CAMPER  CAUGHT  FIRE  AND  WAS  DESTROYED. THERE  ARE  REPORTS  MR. KENNERLY  WAS  PLACED  IN  A  COMA  AT THE  HOSPITAL  AND  COULD  BE  IN  FOR  AN  EXSTENSIVE  STAY.     THERE  WAS  ALSO  A  REPORT  KENNERLY  WAS  TRYING  TO  GET  HIS  DOG  OUT  OF  THE  TRUCK  WHEN  THE  FIRE  STARTED.

THE  SALEM  FIRE  DEPARTMENT  PUT  THE  FIRE  OUT  AND  UNITS  FROM LINCOLN PARK, YATESVILLE,  AND  THE  GA.  FORESTRY UNIT  ALSO  RESPONDED. 

UPSON  SO  ALSO  RESPONDED  TO   ANOTHER  TRUCK  FIRE   AT    CULLODEN  NEAR  WONNUM  ROAD  WHEN   A    FLORIDA  HUNTER HEARD  A LOUD  BANG--- AND  SAW  FLAMES  COMING FROM  THE  ENGINE--AND     40--45  CALIBER  ROUNDS  UNDER  THE  BACK  SEAT  OF  A  F- 350  PICK-UP  STARTED    GOING  OFF.   THERE  WAS  NO  DAMAGE  TO  THE  TRUCK  AND NO  ONE  INJURED--BUT  THERE  WAS  SOME  TIRE   DAMAGE  TO  A   POLARIS  SIDE-BY-SIDE  CONNECTED  TO  THE  TRUCK.   THE  APPARENT OWNER  JASON M.  SPIVEY OF  LEESBURG, FLORIDA  WAS  PUTTING AWAY  HIS DEER  HUNTING  GEAR  WHEN  HE  SAID  HE  HEARD  A  LOUD  EXPLOSION   AND  SAW  THE  ENGINE  ON    FIRE.    SALEM  FIRE  DEPARTMENT  RESPONDED  AND  EXTINGUISHED  THE   BLAZE.

PLANE CRASH IN PIKE CO

 Pike County deputies responded on Sunday , at 8:53a.m., to a report of an aircraft that had crashed at 4824 Highway 362. Responding deputies did locate a plane located in a field. The pilot was not injured and stated that he had taken off from Peachtree City, en route to Florida, when an engine failure occurred causing the plane to go down

SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE FLETCHER SAMS RETIRING

 FAYETTEVILLE — On Nov. 14, Griffin Judicial Circuit Superior Court Judge Fletcher Sams announced his retirement effective Jan. 31, 2026.

Sams previously served as the District Attorney for the Griffin Judicial Circuit and served as judge for the State Court of Fayette County. Since 2010, he has served as a Superior Court Judge for the Griffin Circuit.

"There comes a time when older judges should step aside and encourage younger blood to carry the torch," Sams wrote in a letter to Gov. Brian Kemp on Friday. "I have reached that time.

"Please accept my resignation effective midnight, January 31, 2026. Your history of appointments in our circuit and across the state makes my decision more comfortable, knowing you will leave us in good hands."

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF THOMASTON FY 26 BUDGET

 PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF THOMASTON, GEORGIA

FISCAL YEAR 2026 (FY26) BUDGET REVIEW & ADOPTION

(January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026)

PUBLIC HEARING ON FY2026 BUDGET: A Public Hearing on the FY2026 Budget 

is scheduled for December 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the City County Meeting Room 

located at 106 East Lee Street on the main floor. At this meeting, the Mayor and 

City Council will receive comments about the Annual Operating Budget for the 

City of Thomaston. 

PROPOSED BUDGET AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW: The FY2026 Proposed Budget 

will be available for public inspection during normal office hours at the City of 

Thomaston Finance Department, 106 East Lee Street. Summary information on 

the FY2026 Proposed Budget can also be found on the city’s web site 

www.cityofthomaston.com.

BUDGET REVIEW: The Mayor and Council of the City of Thomaston are 

scheduled to review the FY2026 Proposed Budget 

Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 9 am 

Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 7 pm

BUDGET ADOPTION: The Mayor and City Council of the City of Thomaston are 

scheduled to adopt the FY2026 Budget at their regular monthly meeting on 

December 16, 2025. The meeting will be held at 7 pm in the City County Meeting 

Room at 106 East Lee Street on the main

UPSON CO DELINQUENT TAX SALE

 Upson County’s next delinquent tax sale will be held Dec. 2nd; 10:00 am at the Thomaston-Upson County Civic Center. Anyone wishing to bid on these properties should come by the Tax Office before Dec. 2nd and sign up.

ADVANCE VOTING FOR DEC. 2 RUN-OFF FOR UPSON PROBATE JUDGE

 EARLY  VOTING  FOR  THE  RUN-OFF  FOR  UPSON COUNTY PROBATE JUDGE  BEGINS   MONDAY  NOV.  17TH   INCLUDING  SATURDAY  NOV.  22ND  AND  WEEK  OF  NOV.  24TH  THREE  DAYS -- THE  24TH  THROUGH  THE  26TH  DUE  TO  THE  THANKSGIVING  HOLIDAYS  ON  THURSDAY  AND  FRIDAY  OF  THAT  WEEK.

INCUMBENT  MUFFIN  GIBSON  IS  CHALLENGED  BY  DUSTIN  FORDHAM  IN  THE  DEC.  2ND  RUN-OFF.  

BARNESVILLE'S CJ ALLEN STILL LEADING THE NATION IN TACKLES

  LAMAR  COUNTY'S  CJ  ALLEN, LINEBACKER  FOR  GA.  IS  LEADING  THE  NATION  IN  TACKLES  WITH  39  SOLO  TACKLES  AND   36  ASSISTS. ARION  CARTER OF  TENNESSEE  IS   2ND  WITH   21  SOLOS, 42  ASSISTS.  GA  PLAYS  TEXAS  SAT.  AT  7;30  ON  FUN  101.  GA-GA  TECH  BASKETBALL  FRIDAY  AT  9PM  FUN  101.

FATALITY IN A PIKE CO WRECK WED.

 On Wednesday November 12, 2025 at approximately 6:38 a.m. Pike County deputies were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash on Highway 74 near Dripping Rock Road. Reports indicated a passenger car struck a tractor trailer head on. 

Upon arrival the driver, Kaylee Harrison, 21, of Woodbury was found to be deceased. 

The passenger in her vehicle, Dakota Anthony, 34, of Molena was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital by Air Life. 

The driver of the semi, Corwillieous McDowell, 45, of Jackson was taken to Upson Regional Medical Center. This collision is still uunder investigation.

UPSONIAN RECOGNIZED BY GA. TREND MAGAZINE

   UPSONIAN   WILL  BENTLEY  HAS  BEEN  NAMED  ONE  OF   GEORGIA'S   MOST INFLUENTIAL  LEADERS   BY  GA. TREND -- THE  LEADING  BUSINESS  MAGAZINE IN THE  STATE.  WILL,  PRESIDENT  OF  THE  GA.  AGRIBUSINESS    COUNCIL  BASED  IN MACON--ONCE  SERVED  AS  EXECUTIVE VICE  PRESIDENT  OF  THE  GA.  CATTLEMEN'S  ASSOCIATION.  CONTINUING  A TRADITION  THAT  DATES  BACK  TO   1824--HE  AND  HIS  FAMILY  STILL  FARM  IN  UPSON COUNTY. 

  

  ALSO  NAMED  TO  THE  LIST    WAS  THE  PRESIDENT   OF  SOUTHERN  CRESCENT  TECHNICAL  COLLEGE   IN  GRIFFIN, DR. IRVIN  CLARK  AND  DR.  IVAN  H.  ALLEN  PRESIDENT  OF  CENTRAL  GA.  TECHNICAL  COLLEGE  IN  WARNER  ROBINS  ---  WHO  ONCE  SERVED  AS   INTERIM  PRESIDENT  OF  THE  TECHNICAL  COLLEGE  IN  GRIFFIN. 

T-U SPORTS HALL OF FAME TO BE ANNOUNCED

 THE THOMASTON-UPSON  SPORTS  HALL OF  FAME  WILL  ANNOUNCE  THE NEW  CLASS  OF  INDUCTEES  MONDAY,  NOV.  17TH  AT  5;30PM  ON  FUN  101.

UPSON BOC WANTS CITY MANAGER OFF BOARD OF EQUALIZATION

 AT  A   CALLED  MEETING  WEDNESDAY  THE  UPSON  COUNTY  BOARD OF  COMMISSIONERS  PASSED  A  RESOLUTION  TO  TRY AND  REMOVE  THOMASTON'S CITY  MANAGER   RUSSELL  THOMPSON   FROM  A  RECENT  APPOINTMENT  BY  THE  UPSON  COUNTY  GRAND  JURY  TO  THE  BOARD OF  TAX  EQUALIZATION.   THE  COMMISSIONERS  AND  THEIR  ATTORNEY  HEATH  ENGLISH  SAID  THOMPSON  HAS  A  CONFLICT OF  INTEREST  BECAUSE  HE  WOULD  BE HANDLING  APPEALS  ON  COUNTY  PROPERTY  OUTSIDE  THE  CITY  OF  THOMASTON. 

UPSON  COUNTY  TAX  COMMISSIONER  ANDY  CHASTAIN  AND  CLERK OF  COURT  TERESA MEIER   MADE  A  PRESENTATION  TO  THE  COMMISSIONERS  ON  THE  BACKLOG  OF  TAX  APPEALS --SOME    450   

 DUE  TO  THE  LACK OF  MEMBERS  ON  THE  BOE  AFTER  TWO  MEMBERS  RESIGNED.  THE  TAX  COMMISSIONER  SEEMED  TO  PLACE  THE  BLAME  ON  THE  BACKLOG  TO  THE  TAX  ASSESSORS  BOARD  FOR NOT  ALLOWING  THE   CHIEF  APPRASER  TO WORK  THEM OUT  AND   TURNED  THEM  OVER    FOR   THE  BOARD OF  EQUALIZATION  TO  RESOLVE. IT  PLACES  AN EXTRA  BURDEN  ON  HIS  OFFICE  HE  TOLD  THE  COMMISSIONERS.  CHASTAIN IMPLIED  IT  COULD  HAVE    BEEN  BECAUSE  OF  ISSUES  LAST  YEAR  OVER    SALES  RATIO  WITH  THE  CHIEF  APPRASIER--BUT  CHAIRMAN  BRUE  TOLD  US  ONLY  ABOUT  $32,000  IS  INVOLVED. CLERK OF  COURT  MEIER SAID  THE  REMAINING  APPEALS  WILL  PROBABLY NOT  BE  HEARD  UNTIL  EARLY   2026.

 

  

  THE  COMMISSIONERS  ARE  LOOKING TO  APPOINT  AN  ADDITIONAL    TWO  NEW  TAX  ASSESSORS  TO THE  BOARD AFTER  A  REVIEW OF  THE  OFFICE  IS  COMPLETED  BY  THE  STATE  DEPARTMENT OF  REVENUE--A  REQUEST    FROM   THE  BOC. ANYONE  INTERESTED  CAN  FIND  AN  APPLICATION  ON  THE  COUNTY  WEBSITE.

UNOFFICIALS RESULTS IN UPSON CO. TUESDAY'S ELECTION

IN  TUESDAY'S  ELECTION  INCUMBENT   UPSON  COUNTY   PROBATE  JUDGE MUFFIN  GIBSON  WILL  FACE  DUSTIN  FORDHAM  IN  A  RUN-OFF  DECEMBER  2ND.  CITY  OF  THOMASTON INCUMBENT    MAYOR  PRO  TEM   TROY  CHANEY  WON,  EX-  THOMASTON  CITY  COUNCIL  MEMBER   JERRY  ADAMS  WAS  ELECTED  TO DISTRICT  3  CITY COUNCIL  AND  UPSON COUNTY  VOTERS   APPROVED  THE  FLOATING LOCAL  OPTION  SALES  TAX   FOR  PROPERTY  TAX  RELIEF   THAT  WAS  BACKED  BY  THE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  AND  THOMASTON  MAYOR  AND  COUNCIL. 

IN  A  SPECIAL  ELECTION  FOR    PROBATE  JUDGE    INCUMBENT  MUFFIN  GIBSON  POLLED 36.98% OF  THE  4846  VOTES  CAST  IN  THE  RACE  AND  DUSTIN  FORDHAM  RECEIVED  23.77%  TO  MAKE  THE  RUN-OFF. JEFFREY  LITTLE  POLLED 22.11%, CECIL HUDGINS  GOT  15.99% .

IN  THE  FLOST  FOR  PROPERTY  TAX  RELIEF  OVER  64%  VOTED  YES JUST  OVER  34%--NO  OF   4843  CAST.   FOR  CITY OF  THOMASTON  INCUMBENT    MAYOR  PRO  TEM  TROY  CHANEY  WON  WITH  52 %  OF  THE  1497 OF  THE  VOTES  TALLIED.  COLEMAN  DUMAS  THE  THIRD  GOT  44.96%.

JERRY  ADAMS  POLLED 232  VOTES,  50.88%  OF  THE   445  CAST  FOR  DISTRICT  3  COUNCIL    AND  MONEIKA  IVEY  TALLIED 28%,  JANE  BURDETTE  RECEIVED   18%.

STATE WIDE  BOTH  DEMOCRATS  WON  SEATS  ON  THE  PUBLIC  SERVICE  COMMISSION  DEFEATING  REPUBLICAN  INCUMBENTS    BUT  REPUBLICANS  WON   BIG  IN  UPSON  COUNTY. 

UPSON CO. JEFF DAVIS BRIDGE DELAYED

 Upson County...

The Jeff Davis Bridge over Ten Mile Creek bridge closure will be extended until mid-December 2025 

Thomaston, GA—The Jeff Davis bridge closure has been extended until mid-December 2025.

GDOT recognizes that projects' schedules will change due to weather, on-site conditions and extenuating circumstances.  We are working closely with all partners on this project to complete the projects as quickly as possible.  As always, GDOT appreciates the traveling public’s patience while traveling through construction zones or detours.