|
|
South Metro's News Leader
Monday, August 10, 2026
$3 MILLION LOTTERY WINNER IN THOMASTON
UPSON CO DEPUTY INJURED
UPSON COUNTY SHERIFF DAN KILGORE SAYS DEPUTY ANTHONY THOMPSON, AGE 34 IS RECOVERING AT HOME AFTER BEING A WRECK VICTIM, SATURDAY 1AM AFTER A 3-VECHILE CRASH ON 19 NORTH IN FRONT OF CHILI'S RESTAURANT. DEPUTY THOMPSON WAS RESPONDING TO A CALL WITH BLUE LIGHTS AND SIREN ACTIVATED -WHEN HE TRIED TO GO AROUND TRAFFIC BY USING THE CENTER LANE AND HIT A 2012 NISSAN MURANO DRIVEN BY 17 YEAR OLD CHRISTIAN ALSOBROOKS SITTING THERE WITHOUT HAZARD LIGHTS ACTIVATED. THE DEPUTIES SUV TRAVELED INTO THE SOUTHBOUND LANE AND STRUCK A TOYOTA CAMRY DRIVEN BY 23-YEAR OLD DESTINY COOPER OF THOMASTON--WHO WAS AIRLIFTED TO A MACON TRAUMA CENTER. POST 26 GA. STATE PATROL INVESTIGATED.
Friday, August 7, 2026
COACH LOCKHART RETURNS TO U-L
Coach Daryl Lockhart Returns to
Upson-Lee High School
Thomaston-Upson County Schools is pleased to announce the return of Coach Daryl Lockhart
to Upson-Lee High School as a member of the Physical Education Department.
Coach Lockhart will serve in a 49% Physical Education teaching position while also taking the
reins of the Upson-Lee High School boys basketball program for the 2026-2027 season.
Coach Lockhart is no stranger to the Upson-Lee community, and his return brings both
experience and enthusiasm back to the Knights basketball program. His commitment to
student-athletes and passion for developing young men both on and off the court make him a
valuable addition to the Upson-Lee faculty and coaching staff.
Please join Thomaston-Upson County Schools in welcoming Coach Lockhart back to the
Upson-Lee family. We wish him and the Knights boys basketball team the very best during the
2026-2027 season
TPD MEETS WITH U.S. ATTORNEY REGARDING ALLEGED INVESTMENT SCAM
CITY OF THOMASTON POLICE CHIEF MIKE RICHARDSON TOLD 101 NEWS OFFICERS MET WITH A U.S. ATTORNEY FROM THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF GA. OFFICE IN MACON, THURSDAY REGARDING AN ALLEGED INVESTMENT SCHEME INVOLVING THOMASTON'S JONATHAN HALL, AGE 37. THE CHIEF SAID THE U.S. ATTORNEYS OFFICE INDICATED IT HAS GIVEN THE CASE A HIGH PRIORITY AND AT LEAST 50 VICTIMS HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED INVOLVING OVER 9 MILLION DOLLARS. THE CHIEF ADDED THAT THE U.S. ATTORNEYS OFFICE PLEDGED TO GIVE THE PD REGULAR UPDATES IN THE HALL CASE AND TOLD HIM THE PROBE IS ON-GOING.
THUS FAR, HALL IS FACED WITH ONLY TWO FELONY DRUG COUNTS, FELONY POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA AND FELONY POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE . THOMASTON POLICE SERVED A WIRE FRAUD SEARCH WARRANT AT 236 PEACHBELT ROAD MONTHS AGO AND ARRESTED HALL FOR POSSESSION OF A HALF POUND OF MARIJUANA. HE POSTED $15,000 CASH BOND AND WAS RELEASED. CHIEF RICHARDSON SAID THE SEARCH WARRANT WAS IN REFERENCE TO AN INVESTIGATION INTO AN ALLEGED INVESTMENT FRAUD SCHEME INVOLVING A BUSINESS OPERATING UNDER THE NAME WALTER DOUGLAS INVESTMENTS--A COMPANY NOT REGISTERED TO CONDUCT SECURITIES INVESTMENT ACTIVITY AND THE FIRM HAD NO LOCAL BUSINESS LICENSE.
STATEMENT FROM BRIGHTMARK CEO BOB POWELL REGARDING LETTER TO INDIANA ENVIRONMENTAL
Safety is our top priority in every community in which Brightmark operates.
In July, we voluntarily paused the plastics pyrolysis part of our processing line at our Ashley facility to implement the next generation of upgraded technology, and we notified the Indiana Department of Environmental Management that we were doing so. The balance of the facility’s operation is continuing uninterrupted.
Brightmark will employ this next-generation plastics-to-pyrolysis oil technology in our proposed Thomaston facility. The pause in Ashley has no bearing on our proposed operation in Thomaston.
THOMASTON-UPSON BOE DEFENDS TAX MILLAGE HIKE
Why the Board is considering a millage rate increase: keeping our schools safe
Thomaston-Upson families, we want to be direct with you about where the district stands, starting with our top priority: keeping students and staff safe.
The Board has given tentative approval to a two-mill increase in the property tax millage rate. The clearest reason is safety. Our school resource officer program and secure entry systems cost about $450,000 a year, and state safety grants cover only $180,000 of that, leaving the district to absorb roughly $270,000 on its own. That is not a cost we believe should ever be the first thing cut.
Beyond safety, the district is also closing a broader budget gap that has existed since 2021. This follows a full year of cuts, including $1.5 million in new savings for next year, that weren't enough on their own. Much of the remaining pressure comes from costs we don't control locally: state health insurance and retirement rates for our employees are rising sharply again this year, and a decade of enrollment decline means less state funding even though our fixed costs haven't gone down.
For homeowners, the state's Homestead Tax Relief Grant will help offset part of the impact, an estimated $264 in savings if the Board sets the rate at 14.68 mills, though it doesn't cover the full increase for everyone.
The Board will hold three public hearings before making a final decision: 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 25, and 6 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1, when the Board is expected to formally set the rate. We encourage you to attend, ask questions, or share your thoughts at any of these. Questions are also welcome anytime through the Office of the Superintendent.
With gratitude,
Dr. Tret Witherspoon, Superintenden
CITY OF THOMASTON BOIL WATER NOTICE LIFTED
Boil Water Notice
Lifted
Inframark
309 Veterans Dr.
Thomaston, GA 30286
(706) 646-8031
Friday August 7, 2026
Dear Water Customer,
The “Boil Water” notice affecting the Summer Trace, Daisy Lane, 200
Block of O St and the 600/700 Blocks of 4th Ave in West Silvertown has
been lifted. If you have any questions, please call us at 706-646-8031.
We will notify you as soon as the notice is lifted.
Sincerely,
Inframark
City of Thomaston Wate
Thursday, August 6, 2026
FULL LETTER FROM BRIGHTMARK
Indiana Department of Environmental Management
100 N. Senate Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2251
Attn: Matthew Stuckey - Assistant Commissioner Office of Air Quality
Re: Brightmark Plastics Ashley OpCo LLC
Plant ID No. 151-00067
FESOP No. 151-49194-00067
Case No. 2023-29694-A
Dear Mr. Stuckey:
Brightmark Plastics Ashley OpCo LLC (“Brightmark”) is writing to provide the Indiana Department
of Environmental Management (“IDEM”) with notice regarding the current operational status of its
facility located at 401 McEntarfer Drive, Ashley, Indiana, and to request IDEM’s guidance regarding
the Agreed Order adopted by IDEM on May 19, 2026.
Brightmark has temporarily suspended active plastics-to-fuel processing operations at the Ashley
facility while the company conducts a comprehensive evaluation of its technology configuration,
operational strategy, staffing model, and future development plans for the site. This operational
pause is intended to allow Brightmark to assess potential technology improvements and operational
alternatives that may enhance the long-term viability, compliance posture, and performance of the
facility.
Due to the current idling of the facility, Brightmark will not be able to meet the current timeline
established in Paragraph 3 of the Agreed Order, which requires Brightmark to submit a permit
application within one hundred twenty (120) days of the Effective Date to update compliance testing
requirements and associated deadlines relative to current and projected operational capabilities of
the emission units requiring stack tests in the permit. Because the facility is not currently operating
in active plastics-to-fuel processing mode, Brightmark needs additional time to evaluate its future
operating plans and determine the appropriate permit-related path forward.
Brightmark is providing this notice so IDEM is aware of the facility’s current status and the impact
that the operational pause has on Brightmark’s ability to meet the current Agreed Order timeline.
Brightmark respectfully requests IDEM’s guidance on the appropriate process to address the current
schedule and requirements under the Agreed Order.
The facility is being maintained in a safe and environmentally compliant condition during this
temporary operational pause. Brightmark will continue to comply with applicable permit
requirements, regulatory obligations, and ongoing commitments under the Agreed Order to the
extent they remain applicable during the current facility status. Brightmark also intends to continue
communicating with IDEM regarding material developments affecting the facility’s operational
status, permitting needs, and future operating plans.
2
401 McEntarfer Drive
Ashley, IN 46705
At this time, Brightmark has not made a final determination regarding the duration of the
operational pause or the ultimate configuration of future operations. As the company’s evaluation
progresses, Brightmark intends to submit any permit applications, permit revisions, testing plans,
extension requests, or supporting documentation that may be appropriate based on the outcome of
its evaluation, future operating plans, and IDEM’s guidance.
Brightmark appreciates the professionalism, cooperation, and support provided by IDEM staff
throughout this process and looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the agency.
Should IDEM have any questions or wish to discuss the facility’s current status or the Agreed Order,
please contact me directly.
Sincerely,
BRIGHTMARK PLASTICS ASHLEY OPCO LLC
Chris Hillary
Plant Manager
cc: Joe Har
GSP THOMASTON INVESTIGATING WRECK KNIGHT TRAIL/TOM MCKINLEY RD
POST 26 GA. STATE PATROL /THOMASTON INVESTIGATED A TWO-VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH 3 INJURIES AUGUST 3RD AT KNIGHT TRAIL AND TOM MCKINLEY ROAD. ACCORDING TO TROOPER BEN CLARK, THE DRIVER OF A 2024 GMC SUV DRIVEN BY DEBORAH BEVERLY OF R. STREET FLIPPED OVER AFTER A 2020 HONDA DRIVEN BY CAMESHA JARIE BRASWELL OF HEATH DRIVE IN THOMASTON--ENTERED HER LANE OF TRAVEL AND STRUCK HER VEHICLE IN THE PASSENGER SIDE. BOTH MOTORISTS AND A PASSENGER IN THE HONDA-- KYLE BRASWELL WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE E.R. BY AMERIPRO EMS WITH NON-LIFE THREATING INJURIES
BIBLE CLASSES AT U-L ELEMENTARY
"Big news for Thomaston families! Free LifeWise Bible classes will start August 21st for Upson-Lee Elementary 5th grade students, and January 22nd for 3rd & 4th graders. With your permission, your child can attend an off-campus, character-building Bible class each Friday—right during the school day. Don't wait! Enroll your child today at LifeWise.org/thomastonupsonga."
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
SUV WRECK UNDER INVESTIGATION BY THOMASTON GSP POST
POST 26 GA. STATE PATROL INVESTIGATING AN SUV ACCIDENT AT KNIGHT TRAIL AND TOM MCKINLEY ROAD--MONDAY AROUND 6PM. THE VEHICLE REPORTEDLY FLIPPED OVER
SPALDING CO SENIOR SERVICES
GRIFFIN, GA. (August 4, 2026) Fifty Forward – Your Center for Senior Services is
excited to announce their semiannual Maker’s Market Fine Arts Fair will be hosted on
Friday, October 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center
located at 885 Memorial Drive in Griffin, Georgia.
Support your community by shopping locally! Choose from a variety of items including
baked goods, artwork, crafts, ceramics, creative clay, crochet and knit work, hand
crafted jewelry, photography, quilting, woodwork and much more. All items are custom
made by local, talented Senior Center artists. Most purchases are limited to cash only; a
select few vendors accept credit cards.
This is a special event you do not want to miss!
Interested in participating in the Fine Arts Fair? If you are age 50 or over, please contact
770-467-4385, ahightower@spaldingcounty.com, or ochilds@spaldingcounty.com to
find out more information on how to secure a spot in the Maker’s Market.
Friday, July 31, 2026
STATE HOUSE MEMBER CAMP TO CHAIR LEGISLATIVE EVENT 2027
Chair Beth Camp, President Pro Tempore Larry Walker Accept Host State Gavel for 2027 NCSL Legislative Summit in Atlanta
.jpeg)
NCSL’s Legislative Summit brings together state legislators and legislative staff from all 50 states and U.S. territories for three days of collaboration, innovation and bipartisan dialogue. It is the largest meeting of state legislators and legislative staff in the nation.
NCSL, created by state legislators and legislative staff in 1975, serves America’s 50 states, commonwealths, territories and the District of Columbia. Every state legislator and staffer is a member of the organization and has complete access to the latest in bipartisan policy research, training resources and technical assistance tailored specifically to their needs. NCSL offers members a variety of opportunities to connect and collaborate, notably at its signature event, the NCSL Legislative Summit.
Thursday, July 30, 2026
NORTHSIDE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDS TO STAGECOACH ROAD IN UPSON
Northside Volunteer Fire Rescue
At approximately 0415 hours on July 30, 2026, Northside Volunteer Fire Rescue was dispatched to a reported residential structure fire on Stagecoach Road. While responding, additional information from dispatch advised that flames were visible from the residence.
Engine 83 arrived first on scene at 0420 hours and confirmed a working structure fire with active fire conditions. A size-up was completed, command was established, and firefighters immediately initiated an aggressive interior fire attack while simultaneously conducting a primary search of the residence.
During the primary search, one occupant was located inside the structure and removed by firefighters. The victim was transferred to awaiting EMS personnel for evaluation and care.
Engine 82 arrived as the second-due apparatus and assisted with fire suppression, search operations, overhaul, and scene support.
Through coordinated interior fire attack and tactical ventilation, crews were able to confine the fire primarily to the area of origin, limiting the incident to moderate fire extension and preventing further damage to the remainder of the residence. A primary and secondary search confirmed that all occupants had been accounted for, and the fire was declared under control shortly thereafter.
Northside would like to thank Upson County EMS, the Upson County Sheriff's Office, Upson County 911, and all assisting agencies for their teamwork and professionalism throughout this incident.
This incident serves as another reminder of the importance of working smoke alarms, having two ways out of every room, and practicing a home fire escape plan with your family.
No further information regarding the occupant's condition will be released out of respect for the individual and their family.
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
NEW ARRESTS BY GRIFFIN PD
As of July 28, 2026, the Griffin Police Department has made two additional arrests in connection with the July 11
homicide at Raymond Head Park. Kenijay Ponder was taken into custody on July 23 in Henry County, and Josiah
Starks was taken into custody on July 28 for their roles in the murder of Malcom Freeling.
Since the incident, the Griffin Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, with assistance from the Field
Investigation Team (FIT) Unit, has worked diligently to identify all individuals involved. Our goal is to ensure that
everyone responsible is brought to justice, to provide closure for the victim’s family, and to reassure the community
that individuals who act with such reckless disregard for human life will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the
law.
The Griffin Police Department supports community events and encourages anyone planning a large community
gathering to obtain proper permits and coordinate with their local law enforcement partners to ensure their event
remains safe, secure, and family-friendl
TWO ARRESTED FOR CAR BREAK-INS IN UPSON
News Release
Between July 12 and July 15, 2026 the Upson County Sheriff’s Office received 4 complaints of vehicles being broken into with items stolen. These incidents occurred during the overnight hours in the eastern part of Upson County on Rocky Bottom Road, Rose Creek Road and Mud Bridge Road. We also received a report of a Burglary on Rose Creek Road. Copper wire was stolen from the walls and ceiling during the burglary from a vacant residence.
Investigators received a tip identifying Ian Sweatt, 25, of Hampton Georgia as a suspect. A vehicle being driven by Sweatt was located in the area of the thefts by utilizing FLOCK camera technology. Sweatt was arrested by deputies during a license check on Barnesville Highway on July 23 on an outstanding warrant from Henry County. Sweatt was interviewed by Investigators and admitted to committing the thefts. Another suspect who is identified as Jacob Lee Chambers, 21, of Rose Creek Road was named as an additional suspect. Chambers was located by Investigators and interviewed. Chambers also confessed to committing the thefts.
Sweatt and Chambers are in the Upson County Jail facing charges of four counts each of Entering Auto, One count each of Burglary and one count each of Criminal Damage to property.
Investigators have been working to recover the property stolen. Some items have been located. Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact Investigator Marcus Denson at the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.
Dan Kilgore, Sheriff
July 29, 2026
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)