THOMASTON-UPSON NEW REC DIRECTOR

 ACCORDING  TO  UPSON COUNTY  MANAGER  LONNIE  JOYCE--THE  NEW  THOMASTON-UPSON  RECREATION  DIRECTOR  IS  PIKE  COUNTY  COACH  ERIK   FOSTER   AND  HE  ASSUMES  HIS  DUTIES  FRIDAY. COACH   FOSTER    IS    A  MARINE  VETERAN   AND   IS  A  FORMER  ASSISTANT  COACH  AT  UPSON-LEE .

U-L LINEBACKER CHARACTER NAMED AJC ALL-STATE

 UPSON-LEE  LINEBACKER  MALACHI  CHARACTER  WAS  NAMED  TO  THE  AJC  ALL-STATE  TEAM  ALONG  WITH  MARY PERSONS DB MASON  STEVENS.  OTHERS  WITH  HONORS  LAMAR  COUNTY  LINEBACKER  KADEN  CARTER   MANCHESTER  HIGH'S   DB   JAEDYN  TERRY    AND DL BRYSON JOHNSON  AND  LINEBACKER CODOFEE  REVELL  MADE  2ND  TEAM,    TAYLOR  COUNTY'S  D. LINEMAN  TRACE  HALL  MADE  2ND  TEAM.

CITY OF THOMASTON PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR KYLE MCGEE URGES RECYCLING CHRISTMAS TREES

 Recycle your Christmas tree… Now that our Christmas celebrations have come to an end, the City of Thomaston is requesting that residents donate Christmas trees to Lakeside Park to “give your tree a new life”… between Dec. 25, 2024, and Jan. 31, 2026, a sign will be in the parking lot of the park to show where trees can be placed… trees will be accepted from dawn to dusk, seven days per week… Lakeside Park is located at 800 County Road in Thomaston… for more information, call 706-647-7144.

THOMASTON POLICE CHIEF UPDATES DRUG CASE AT 236 PEACHBELT ROAD

 

 THOMASTON  POLICE  CHIEF  MIKE  RICHARDSON  TOLD  101  NEWS  FRIDAY  AFTERNOON 37  YEAR  OLD JONATHAN  HALL  WAS  ARRESTED  ON  DRUG  CHARGES  AFTER  A  WIRE  FRAUD    SEARCH  WARRANT  WAS EXECUTED  AT 236  PEACHBELT  ROAD   THURSDAY   AND HALL  WAS  BOOKED INTO  JAIL  ON  CHARGES OF  FELONY    MARIJUANA  WITH  INTENT  TO  DISTRIBUTE  AFTER OFFICERS  FOUND  A   HALF  POUND  OF  MARIJUANA.  HALL  WAS   RELEASED  FRIDAY  AFTERNOON  AFTER POSTING  BOND  OF  $15,000  WITH  NO  PROPERTY  SEIZED.  IN  A  THURSDAY  PRESS  RELEASE  BY  THE  PD  THE  INVESTIGATION  BEGAN   AFTER  A  VICTIM  REPORTED  BEING  INDUCED  TO  WIRE  $250,000 ON  APRIL  11TH 2025  TO  A  BUSINESS  OPERATING  UNDER  THE  NAME  WALTER  DOUGLAS  INVESTMENTS.  A    FINANCIAL  INSTITUTION DENIED  ANY  EMPLOYMENT  RELATIONSHIP  AND  NO  REGISTRATION  OR LICENSING  FOR  ANY  COMPANY   WITH  THAT  NAME  WAS  FOUND.

 

 CHIEF RICHARDSON  WOULD  NOT  SPECULATE AT  THIS  TIME  IF  A  PONZI SCHEME  IS  INVOLVED  OR  ANY  OTHER  INDIVIDUALS WERE  BEING  INVESTIGATED,  BUT HE  CONFIRMED   HIS  DEPARTMENT  IS  WORKING WITH  STATE  AND  FEDERAL  AUTHORITIES  ON THE  CASE  AND  HE  SAID  ANYONE  WHO  HAS  INVESTED  WITH  WALTER  DOUGLAS  INVESTMENTS  SHOULD  CONTACT  THOMASTON  POLICE.  THE  CHIEF  TOLD  US  THE  WIRED  FUNDS WERE  DEPOSITED  INTO  A  BUSINESS ACCOUNT AND  RAPIDLY  SPENT ON PERSONAL  EXPENSES  RATHER  THAN  INVESTED.

THOMASTON CITY COUNCIL APPROVES BUDGET 3-2 VOTE

 

CITY  OF  THOMASTON  MAYOR  J.D. STALLINGS  HAD  TO  BREAK  A  2-2  TIE  TO  APPROVE  THE 2026  BUDGET  AT  A  BUDGET MEETING    THURSDAY- A   3-2  VOTE.  COUNCIL MEMBERS  JEFF MIDDLEBROOKS  AND  LAKETHIA  REEVES  VOTED  AGAINST  THE  MOTION  BY  MAYOR  PRO TEM  TROY  CHANEY  TO  APPROVE.

COUNCILMAN  MIDDLEBROOKS  STATED  HE  OPPOSES  THE  UTILITY  INCREASES  IN  THE  BUDGET    AND    HIS  CONSTITUENTS  ARE   PAYING  FOR  SERVICES  THEY  DON'T  NEED WITH  GARABAGE  COLLECTION.  CITY  MANAGER  RUSSELL  THOMPSON  COUNTERED  THE  EXTRA  CART  IS  FACTORED INTO  THE  TOTAL  COST  OF  THE  SERVICE .  MAYOR  STALLINGS  SAID  OTHER  NEAR-BY  CITIES  ARE  PAYING MORE  AND  DON'T  GET  THE  SERVICES GFL OFFERS CITY  CUSTOMERS

UPSON CO COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS

 AT  THE  FINAL  MEETING  OF  THE  YEAR  UPSON  COUNTY  COMMISSIONER  JAMES  ELLINGTON URGED  THE  PUBLIC  TO  SHUN  SOCIAL  MEDIA  AND  CALL  THEIR  COMMISSIONER  WITH  QUESTIONS    ABOUT ISSUES.  HE  ADDED  ATTENDING  COMMISSION  MEETINGS  IS  ANOTHER  GOOD  WAY  TO  STAY  ON  TOP OF  COUNTY  HAPPENINGS.  THE  CHAMBER  WAS  FULL  FOR  THE  MEETING,  MOSTLY  THOSE  IN  HIS   DISTRICT  OPPOSED  TO   SERENITY  LAKES  SUBDIVISION  THAT  GOT  ANOTHER  TURN DOWN  BY  THE  BOARD.

COMMISSION  CHAIRMAN  DAN  BRUE    HAD  SOME  CLOSING  COMMENTS  ABOUT  2025  HIS  FIRST  YEAR     AS  CHAIRMAN.  HE  SAID  IT  TAKES-UP  MORE  TIME  THAN  HE  REALIZED   AND  HE  THANKED  HIS  WIFE  FOR  HER   UNDERSTANDING  OF  HIS  MANY  ABSENCES.

ATTORNEY JOHNNIE CALDWELL APPOINTED CITY OF THOMASTON ATTORNEY 2026

 THE  THOMASTON  MAYOR AND  COUNCIL  WILL  HOLD  A  WORK  SESSION    WEDNESDAY     AT  8;30PM  AFTER  COUNCIL MEMBERS  JEFF MIDDLEBROOKS  AND  LAKETHIA  REEVES  QUESTIONED  SOME  SALARY INCREASES  IN  THE  PROPOSED  2026  BUDGET.  COUNCIL  IS   HOLDING A   LATE  MEETING  AS  STATE  LAW  REQUIRES  24  HOURS  NOTIFICATION    BEFORE  A  CALLED  MEETING.  CITY  MANAGER  RUSSELL  THOMPSON  ASKED  THE  COUNCIL  IF  THEY  WANTED  TO  GO  AHEAD  AND  ADOPT  THE   2026  BUDGET  DURING  TUESDAY'S  MEETING  RATHER  THAN  HAVE  A  CALLED  MEETING  AT  NOON  THURSDAY--BUT  THE  TWO  COUNCIL  MEMBERS  HAD  QUESTIONS  ABOUT  PAY  RAISES.

IN  OTHER  ACTION , IDA  ATTORNEY  JOHNNIE  CALDWELL  WAS  APPOINTED  CITY OF  THOMASTON  ATTORNEY  FOR   2026 BY  THE  CITY  COUNCIL.  CURRENT  ATTORNEY  DEANN  WHEELER   IS   REPORTEDLY   STEPPING  DOWN  DUE  TO  THE  DEMANDS  OF  HER   LAW  PRACTICE.   

UPSON NATIVE NAMED GOLF COACH OF THE YEAR IN GA.

 THOMASTON NATIVE  BEN  THRASHER   WHO  IS    DEFENSIVE  CORDINATOR   OF  THE  LAGRANGE  FOOTBALL  TEAM  WILL  BE  RECOGNIZED  AS  GOLF     COACH  OF  THE  YEAR  IN  GHSA  FOLLOWING  THE  SANDY  CREEK  CHAMPIONSHIP  FOOTBALL  GAME  AT  THE  BENZ   THAT  BEGINS  TODAY   AT  4;15PM  ON  CHANNEL  8  TV. HIS  GOLF  TEAM  WAS  RUNNERS-UP  IN  TRIPLE- A.  BEN  WILL  BE  RECOGNIZED  WITH   OVER  TWO  DOZEN  COACHES  OF  THE  YEAR  IN GA.  

PLEDGES MADE TO SILVERTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH IN THOMASTON

 

 SILVERTOWN  BAPTIST  CHURCH  IS  SEEKING $260,000  BY  THE  END  OF JANUARY  TO   UPGRADE  THE  BUILDING  OR  IT MIGHT  HAVE  TO  DISCONTINUE  SERVICES.  PASTOR  PAUL  CASPERS  TOLD  US  TUESDAY  SO  FAR    PLEDGES   TOTAL  $4150  AND  ADDED  ATTENDANCE  HAS  DROPPED  SUNDAYS  TO  ABOUT   30--NOT  ENOUGH  TO  FUND  THE  RENOVATION  OF  THE  CHURCH  BUILDING  SO  HE'S CALLING  FOR   PLEDGES  FROM  THE  COMMUNITY  AT  LARGE. THEY  CAN  BE  MADE  AT  THE  CHURCH  WEBSITE--SAVING  SILVERTOWN  B.C.

HARDEES IN THOMASTON HAS CLOSED

 THE  HARDEES  FAST  FOOD  RESTAURANT  ON  NORTH  CHURCH  IN  THOMASTON  HAS  CLOSED.  A SIGN  ON  THE  DOOR  THANKS  THOMASTON  FOR  ITS  PATRONAGE.  REPORTEDLY  THE  FRANCHISEE  IN  CARROLLTON  HAS  CLOSED  SEVERAL  HARDEES . UPSONIANS  HAVE  ALWAYS  BEEN  LINED-UP  AT  THE  DRIVE-THRU  FOR  THOSE  DELICIOUS  BREAKFAST  BISCUITS.  

QUAD GRAPHICS CLOSING IN UPSON CO

 Quad Media Statement

Facility Closure Announcement

December 16, 2025

Quad announced today that it has made the difficult decision to permanently close its printing 

facility in The Rock, Georgia, in March 2026. This decision reflects ongoing industry declines in 

long-run print categories—like weekly magazines the plant was built to produce—driven by 

frequent postal rate hikes, which have exceeded inflation, as well as persistent U.S. Postal 

Service delivery delays.

“Making decisions that affect people’s lives is the hardest part of leading a business,” said Joel 

Quadracci, Chairman, President & CEO. “After careful evaluation, we felt it was important to 

communicate openly and without delay, so employees had time to prepare for what’s next. Our 

Georgia team has been an important part of Quad’s success for decades, and we are committed 

to supporting them through this transition. Even as we make this change, print remains a vital 

part of our integrated marketing platform and a major point of differentiation among our 

competitive set.”

Quad will support affected employees through this transition by offering relocation 

opportunities for skilled equipment operators and tradespeople, or a separation package that 

includes pay, extended healthcare benefits and career counseling assistance. The company is 

also planning an on-site job fair in January to connect employees with other job opportunities 

in the area.

The Rock facility has been part of Quad’s story for more than 30 years. Built in 1995 to replace 

an aging, less efficient plant it acquired in 1989, the 797,000-square-foot facility currently 

employs approximately 260 people.

Work currently performed in The Rock will transition to Quad’s Wisconsin manufacturing 

platform, which will create efficiencies that help reduce costs and improve service to clients, 

such as volume-driven postage-saving programs.

Print remains important to Quad’s integrated marketing platform, which spans all traditional 

and digital channels and delivers measurable results for clients. Quad has seen growth in 2025 

in its Targeted Print offerings—such as Direct Mail, In-Store Signage and Packaging.

###

Other background that may be useful to you as you craft your story: 

The Rock

• Quad opened The Rock facility in 1995 to replace an older plant in nearby Thomaston 

that it acquired from W.R. Bean & Sons in 1989. 

• Quad expanded south to Georgia in the late 1980s to serve Time Inc. and titles such as 

Time, Sports Illustrated and People.

• The Rock facility is 797,000 square feet and will be sold.

Quad

• Quad (NYSE: QUAD) is a global marketing experience company that gives brands a more 

streamlined, impactful, flexible and frictionless way to go to market and reach 

consumers. Quad guides brands through every effort intended to drive an action, from 

consumer awareness and trust, to brand preference and purchase. 

• Quad serves more than 2,100 clients across industries including publishing, retail, 

consumer packaged goods, direct-to-consumer, financial services, and healthcare.

• Headquartered in Southeastern Wisconsin, Quad is led by Chairman, President & CEO 

Joel Quadracci, who is the son of company founder Harry V. Quadracci and is the 

printing industry’s longest-serving chief executive at 18 years.

• Quad employs more than 11,000 people in 11 countries with most of its operations in 

the U.S.

• Quad’s Wisconsin manufacturing platform includes locations in Burlington, Franklin, 

Hartford, Lomira, Pewaukee, Sussex and West Allis.

From: 

Claire Ho, Director, Corporate Communications 

PASTOR OF SILVERTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH ON POSSIBLE CLOSING

 PAUL  CASPERS  PASTOR  OF  SILVERTOWN  BAPTIST  CHURCH   FOR  OVER  A  DECADE   SAYS  THE  CHURCH  BUILDING  HAS  BEEN  IN  DECLINE  FOR     35      YEARS  AND  ATTENDANCE  SUNDAYS  IS  AROUND  30  PERSONS --NOT  ENOUGH  TO  FUND  THE  $262,000   THE  CHURCH     NEEDS   IN  UPGRADES  TO  CONTINUE  WITH  SERVICES.  THAT  AMOUNT IS NEEDED  BY  THE  END OF  JANUARY  OR  THE   CHURCH  PROPERTY  WILL  BE  TURNED  OVER  TO  THE  CENTENNIAL  BAPTIST  ASSOCIATION.  THE  CHURCH  NEEDS  PUBLIC  PLEDGES  TO  CONTINUE  WITH  SERVICES.  DETAILS   ON   101.1  NEWS.

DEC. MEETING T-U IDA

 THE  THOMASTON-UPSON  DEVELOPMENT  AUTHORITY   PLANS  TO  APPLY  FOR  A  GA. RURAL  SITE  DEVELOPMENT  GRANT  ACCORDING  TO  COMMENT AT   THE    DECEMBER  MEETING. 

  EXECUTIVE  DIRECTOR  SLADE  GULLEDGE SAID    AWARD  AMOUNTS  ARE  UP  TO   $2  MILLION  WITH A   10%  MATCH  WITH  FOCUS  ON  INFRASTRUCTURE/ROADWAY  IMPROVEMENTS  AT THE  CENTRAL GA. BUSINESS  AND  TECHNOLOGY  PARK  NEAR  THE  AIRPORT.

THE  IDA  ALSO APPROVED  AN  ADMINISTRATION  AGREEMENT WITH  ALLEN-SMITH  GRANT  WRITING  FOR   $25,000.

SYDNEY SHARPE  WAS APPOINTED  TO  THE  IDA  BY  THE  THOMASTON  CITY  COUNCIL AND  WILL  BE  SWORN-IN AT  THE  ANNUAL  MEETING  IN  JANUARY-- A  SEAT  HELD  BY  LONNIE JOYCE  WHO  IS NOW  COUNTY  MANAGER.  A  CURRENT MEMBER  OF  THE  IDA  JENNIFER  ROGERS  HAS  REAPPLIED  FOR  ANOTHER  TERM--SHE IS  A  COUNTY  APPOINTEE.  THE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  POSTPONED  APPOINTMENTS  AT   THE  FINAL  REGULAR MEETING  OF  THE  YEAR  AND  THEY  WILL  APPARENTLY  BE  MADE  IN  JANUARY.

COULD SILVERTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH IN THOMASTON BE CLOSING?

 SILVERTOWN  BAPTIST  CHURCH  IN  THOMASTON  HAS  POSTED ON  SOCIAL  MEDIA  THAT    UNLESS  EXTRAORDINARY   RESOURSES  AND    OPPORTUNTIES  ARE  FOUND  THE CHURCH  WILL  CONTINUE  SERVICES THROUGH  JANUARY  AND  THEN  SETTLE  REMAINING     FINANCIAL  OBLIGATIONS  AND  TRANSFER  THE PROPERTY  AND  UNUSED  FUNDS  TO  THE  CENTENNIAL  BAPTIST  ASSOCIATION.  THE  CHURCH  LISTED  WHAT  IT  CALLS  A  PESSIMISTIC ACCOUNTING  OF  WHAT  ITS  TRYING  TO  OVERCOME   IN  REPAIRS  AND  RESTORATIONS      TOTALS  OVER  $262,000  IN  2026.  THE CHURCH  ESTIMATES  IT   WILL  NEED  ANOTHER  $150,000 OR MORE  FROM  OUTSIDE  THE  CHURCH  IN  2027  AND   2028  TO  KEEP  MAKING  REPAIRS  AND  UPGRADES.  SILVERTOWN  BAPTIST  IS  SEEKING   PLEDGES  OF  SUPPORT  FROM  THE  PUBLIC  TO   CONTINUE  TO  HOLD  SERVICES.

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.

###

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

 ) 

  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.