South Metro's News Leader
Spalding County and the City of Griffin invite you to attend a combined ceremonial program marking the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 as we come together to Honor, Reflect, and Never Forget.
Date: Friday, September 11, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM
Location: Courthouse Steps, Griffin, Georgia
Please join us as we remember the lives lost, honor the heroes who served, and reflect on the lasting impact of September 11, 2001.
Subject: Free! Sun City Civitan Club Foundation's Sept. 13 LIVE(ly) Auction Update
IT WAS AN UPSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING STRAIGHT OUT OF THE TWILIGHT ZONE, TUESDAY. THE BOC UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED IDA REZONING ON RACE TRACK ROAD FOR A FUTURE INDUSTRIAL PARK, SOMETHING CRITICIZED BY EX-CHAIRMAN RUSTY BLACKSTON-DURING PUBLIC COMMENT-- SET THE TAX MILLAGE AT THE RATE PREVIOUSLY DISCUSSED AND A FEMALE WAS ESCORTED TO THE DOOR BY A DEPUTY AFTER COUNTY MANAGER LONNIE JOYCE DEFENDED THE S.O. USE OF FLOCK CAMERAS AND WARNED MARY ALICE ADAMS TO STOP INTERRUPTING HIM WITH NEGATIVE COMMENTS ABOUT THEIR USE.
ATLANTA — An updated federal filing by the SEC in a simmering dispute with LSU over the use of players formerly under contract with NFL teams is asking a federal judge to affirm the conference's right to enforce its rules and warning of a meeting this week where LSU's conference membership could be terminated
THOMASTON'S CITY MANAGER RUSSELL THOMPSON SAYS WATER IS CLEAR LEAVING THE TREATMENT PLANT AFTER A TEMPORARY PUBLIC NOTICE ABOUT DISCOLORATION DUE TO MANGANESE. THE WATER REMAINED SFE FOR DRINKING, COOKING, BATHING AND OTHER USES.
MAYOR JD STALLINGS WAS GUSHING AT TUESDAY'S COUNCIL MEETING--NOTING THE CITY COUNCIL CUT TAXES DURING THE MEETING.
IN HIS TESTIMONY BEFORE THE T-U- BOARD OF EDUCATION-PUBLIC HEARING PRIOR TO SETTING THE TAX MILLAGE DR. KEN MORGAN URGED COMPROMISE AND THE BOARD VOTED TO DROP THE MILLAGE RATE ABOUT ONE MILL AND UP THE FUND BALANCE CONTRIBUTION TO $567,000 TO BALANCE THE BUDGET--A 6-1 VOTE . BRENT KING VOTED NO--TELLING 101 NEWS HE OPPOSED BECAUSE TOO MANY CITIZENS ARE STRUGGLING FINANCIALLY.
A FATAL SHOOTING OF A WARM SPRINGS POLICE OFFICER ON DUTY--CHRIS FISHER TUESDAY NIGHT HAS LEAD TO THE REPORTED SHOOTING OF THE SUSPECT IN THE SHOOTING. THE GBI ISSUED A BLUE ALERT FOR 23 YEAR OLD JIMMIE STEVERSON WHO MIGHT HAVE AMBUSHED OFFICER FISHER AND FIRED THE FATAL SHOT TO THE HEAD.
BREAKING NEWS--THE ALLEDGED SHOOTER REPORTEDLY GOT IN A CHASE WITH THE LAW IN GEORIGIA AND SHOT HIMSELF WED IN SOUTH CAROLINA. THIS IS BREAKING NEWS FROM 101 NEWS.
THOMASTON KIWANIS CLUB KREEPY 5 K ROAD RACE/WALK. OCT. 24, 2026
5 K RACE $35 ENTRY FEE $40 DAY OF RACE. SUBMIT ENTRIES KIWANIS CLUB RACE, 101 NORTH GREEN ST. THOMASTON, GA. 30286.
City of Thomaston
Telephone 706-647-4242 Fax 706-646-2653
106 East Lee Street
P.O. Box 672
Taking The Time To Serve
Office of the City Manager
PUBLIC NOTICE
City of Thomaston Water Department
Water Quality Notice: Temporary Water Discoloration Due to Naturally Occurring
Manganese
September 1, 2026
The City of Thomaston Water Department is aware that some customers may notice a slight
brown, yellow, or tea-colored tint in their tap water. This temporary discoloration is the
result of elevated levels of naturally occurring manganese entering the treatment plant from
the source water supply.
Manganese is a naturally occurring mineral commonly found in soil, groundwater, and
surface water. While it can affect the appearance of drinking water, it does not necessarily
indicate health concern. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a
Secondary Maximum Contaminant Level (SMCL) of 0.05 mg/L for manganese based on
aesthetic considerations such as color, taste, and staining potential.
Current manganese levels in the City's water system remain below EPA’s secondary
aesthetic standard. However, concentrations have been elevated enough to cause minor
discoloration in portions of the distribution system. Probable causes include prolonged
periods of extreme heat combined with rapid temperature changes to the water source
onset by cooler rain events and cooler mornings. The temperature swings affect the water
chemistry. Crews are aware and are undertaking efforts throughout the system to abate the
issue
Is the Water Safe?
Yes. The water remains safe for drinking, cooking, bathing, and other household uses. This
situation does not constitute a health emergency and is not a violation of any primary
drinking water regulations. The primary impact is limited to the appearance of the water.
City of Thomaston
Telephone 706-647-4242 Fax 706-646-2653
106 East Lee Street
P.O. Box 672
Taking The Time To Serve
Office of the City Manager
What Customers Can Do
If you experience discolored water, we recommend the following:
• Run cold water from a faucet, bathtub, or utility sink for approximately 2 to 5 minutes
or until the water clears.
• Delay washing light-colored laundry until the water runs clear to prevent potential
staining.
• There is no need to boil water or purchase bottled water as a result of this issue.
• Customers with specific health concerns should consult their healthcare provider.
Actions Being Taken
The City of Thomaston Water Department is actively working to restore normal water
appearance by:
• Adjusting treatment processes to optimize manganese removal.
• Enhancing oxidation and sequestration treatment measures as needed.
• Conducting targeted flushing of water mains throughout the distribution system.
• Continuing routine water quality monitoring to ensure compliance and track
improvements.
We anticipate conditions will improve over the next 24 to 72 hours as these corrective
measures take effect.
City of Thomaston
Telephone 706-647-4242 Fax 706-646-2653
106 East Lee Street
P.O. Box 672
Taking The Time To Serve
Office of the City Manager
Contact Information
Due to the increased number of customer inquiries, response times may be slightly longer
than normal. If discoloration persists after flushing your lines, or if you have any questions,
please contact:
City of Thomaston Water Department
Heath Jarriel, Project Manager
Phone: 706-646-8031
Email: hjarriel@azuria.com
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to resolve this issue and
maintain the high quality of service our customers expect.
Sincerely,
Heath Jarriel
Project Manager
City of Thomaston Water Departmen
Dolly Parton gave the world more than music. She gave us laughter, kindness, generosity, and a little extra sparkle.
BARNESVILLE, Ga. – Gordon State College alumnus and Foundation Trustee Thomas “Tog” Goss was honored with the Alumni and Distinguished Friends Award during the 2026 University System of Georgia Foundation Board of Regents’ Scholarship & Awards Gala. The event, themed “Sea of Dreams,” took place Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.
The annual Gala is the USG Foundation’s signature philanthropic event, bringing together business, civic and higher education leaders from across Georgia to support need-based scholarships for students attending the state’s public colleges and universities. The event also recognizes outstanding students, faculty, alumni, donors and supporters whose leadership and service advance public higher education throughout Georgia.
Goss was recognized in the State Colleges category for his longstanding commitment to Gordon State, healthcare education and expanding opportunities for students. A distinguished healthcare executive and GSC alumnus, Goss serves as a trustee of the Gordon State College Foundation and is the former chief operating officer of Atrium Health Navicent Baldwin. He currently serves as CEO of Putnam General Hospital.
“Tog Goss represents the kind of leadership and service that makes Gordon State College and our communities stronger,” said Dr. Russell Crutchfield, president of GSC. “His commitment to developing Georgia’s healthcare workforce, expanding opportunities for students and investing in the communities we serve reflects the very best of Highlander Nation. This recognition by the Board of Regents is well deserved, and we are proud to celebrate him.”
That commitment to Gordon State includes establishing an endowed scholarship supporting students in the College’s LPN/Paramedic Bridge to ASN pathway. The scholarship helps reduce financial barriers for non-traditional students while supporting the development of skilled healthcare professionals who can serve rural communities throughout the region.
Goss also provides strategic guidance through GSC’s Nursing and Health Sciences Advisory Board and regularly shares his experience with students through mentorship, speaking
engagements and professional guidance. His continued involvement connects academic preparation with workforce needs while strengthening pathways into healthcare careers.
Through his philanthropy, professional leadership and advocacy, Goss has become a champion for healthcare access and a strong ambassador for GSC and the USG.
GSC’s participation in the annual Gala provides an opportunity to celebrate members of Highlander Nation whose contributions extend beyond the College while strengthening relationships with donors, corporate partners and state leaders who support public higher education.
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About Gordon State College
Founded in 1852, Gordon State College (GSC) is a member of the University System of Georgia. The college has a distinct legacy of excellent scholarship and service. GSC offers nearly 30 degrees, which include numerous concentrations, pathways, and certificate programs for students. With an enrollment of over 3,100 students, GSC provides an intimate academic setting with state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories. In this setting, students receive individualized attention that only a small college wi
The Thomaston-Upson System was notified that the newly elected board member recently moved districts. At that time, the issue was turned over to the school system attorney. We are awaiting information on how to proceed.
 | David Eubanks Director of Public Relations & Fine Arts Thomaston-Upson Schools |
UPSON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE RESPONDED TO TWO STRUCTURE FIRES LAST WEEK--ONE AT VIRGINIA WELL CO. 19 NORTH AUGUST 21ST--APPARENTLY LIGHTNING STRUCK A PILE OF WOOD AGAINEST THE REAR OF THE BUILDING. NORTHSIDE FIRE DEPARTMENT SUPPRESSED THE FIRE BEFORE THERE WAS HEAVY DAMAGE--BUT SOME DAMAGE TO AN EXTERIOR WALL.
AT 95 MANLEY ROAD BLACK SMOKE OBSERVED COMING FROM A DWELLING AND THE OWNER CODY STARNES SAID HE HEARD A POPPING SOUND WHILE IN BED. NORTHSIDE FIRE DEPARTMENT GAINED CONTROL OF THE FIRE.
A VEHICLE FIRE AT EAST MOORE'S CROSSING AND DELRAY ROAD. ROCK HILL FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED BUT A VEHICLE DRIVEN BY JAMESAN GRAMME WAS A TOTAL LOSS. SHE AND HER DAUGHT EXITED THE CAR WHEN THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND IT STOPPED.
LOSS OF $4000 AFTER A DOOR TO A SKID STEER MISSING AT 3774 TRIUNE MILL ROAD. THE OWNER SAID HE STEPPED AWAY FROM CLEARING LAND FOR TWO HOURS AND THE THEFT OCCURED.
EX-COMMISSION CHAIRMAN MAURICE RAINES TOLD 101 NEWS WEDNESDAY MORNING HE HAS RECEIVED PHONE CALLS, EMAILS AND TEXTS URGING HIM TO RUN AGAIN FOR CHAIRMAN AND HE WILL HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT SOON ON HIS INTENTIONS. HE SERVED AS CHAIRMAN FROM 2009 TO 2012. CAPTAIN RAINES OF THE GA. STATE PATROL IS CURRENTLY DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF HIGHWAY SAFETY.
VICE-CHAIR CHRIS BIGGS WILL APPARENTLY WILL PRESIDE UNTIL MARCH 2027 WHEN A SPECIAL ELECTION CAN BE HELD FOR COMMISSION CHAIRMAN. COUNTY ATTORNEY HEATH ENGLISH ADVISED ITS TOO LATE TO GET THE POSITION ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT. CHAIRMAN BRUE HAS REPORTEDLY TURNED-IN ALL HIS COUNTY PROPERTY AND REPORTED FOR DUTY AT HOME DEPOT.
JAMES ELLINGTON, 2ND DISTRICT COMMISSIONER TOLD 101 NEWS AFTER WEDNESDAY'S PUBLIC HEARING ON THE TAX MILLAGE RATE, HE IS CONSIDERING THE RACE FOR CHAIRMAN. THE PUBLIC WAS A NO SHOW AT THE 8;30AM PUBLIC HEARING AND VICE-CHAIR CHRIS BIGGS PRESIDED.
IT HAD BEEN RUMORED FOR SOME TIME--BUT UPSON COUNTY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN DAN BRUE ANNOUNCED AT TUESDAY'S MEETING HE HAS SENT A LETTER TO GOVERNOR BRIAN KEMP INDICATING HE WILL RESIGN AT THE END OF THE MONTH. WITHOUT MENTIONING HOME DEPOT BY NAME THE CHAIRMAN INDICATED HE HAS A GREAT OPPORUNITY IN FRONT OF HIM, ONE HE PASSED OVER ONCE BEFORE, AND WITH FAMILY CONSIDERATIONS HE SHOULD ACCEPT IT AT THIS TIME. THE CHAIRMAN WORKS AT ONE OF HOME DEPOTS FACILILTIES IN HENRY COUNTY .
THE UPSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WILL CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 2026 TAX MILLAGE RATE AT 8;30AM AND 5PM WEDNESDAY AUGUST 26 AT THE GOVERNMENT COMPLEX. THE COMMISSIONERS HAVE PROPOSED A SLIGHT TAX MILLAGE RATE INCREASE DUE TO HEALTH INSURANCE AND EMPLOYEE PAYROLL EXPENSES.
