NEW CLOCK TOWER NEXT YEAR ON UPSON COURTHOUSE

IT WILL PROBABLY BE THIS TIME NEXT YEAR BEFORE A NEW CLOCK TOWER WILL BE INSTALLED ON THE ROOF OF THE UPSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE. AT THE JUNE 25TH MEETING, THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS APPROVED A SCHEDULE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION ON THE COURTHOUSE ROOF TO STOP THE LEAKS.

ACCORDING TO PRECISION PLANNING THE KICK-OFF MEETING FOR THE PROJECT WILL BE IN EARLY JULY AND ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS IN LATE AUGUST, WITH BID OPENING IN SEPTEMBER. THE NOTICE TO PROCEED SHOULD BE IN OCTOBER WITH ROOF REPAIRS AND FLASHINGS FOR 4 MONTHS AND A NEW CLOCK TOWER INSTALLED IN MID-MAY, 2020.

CHAIRMAN NORMAN ALLEN SAID THE NEW CLOCK TOWER WILL LOOK THE SAME AS THE CURRENT ONE AND SOME TILES WILL BE REPLACED TO COMPLETE THE JOB.

ORIGINALLY THE COUNTY HOPED TO HAVE THE PROJECT COMPLETED THIS SUMMER, BUT THE ROOF TROUBLES WERE GREATER THAN FIRST THOUGHT.

COUNTY MANAGER JASON TINSLEY SAYS THE COST IS STILL UP IN THE AIR BUT ITS EXPECTED TO BE NORTH OF ONE MILLION DOLLARS.

NOT GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS MARY KATHERINE HIGDON

NOT GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS THE VERDICT IN SPALDING COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT WEDNESDAY IN THE MURDER TRIAL OF MARY KATHERINE HIGDON, AGE 24 ON TRIAL FOR THE SHOOTING DEATH OF HER BOYFRIEND, STEVEN FREEMAN IN AUGUST 2018.

THE JURY WAS OUT FOR OVER 4 HOURS BEFORE DELIVERING THE VERDICT OF ACQUITTAL.

DISTRICT ATTORNEY BEN COKER TOLD 101 NEWS, HE WAS DISAPPOINTED WITH THE NOT GUILTY VERDICT —BUT AS AN OFFICER OF THE COURT HE RESPECTS THE DECISION OF THE JURY.

D.A. COKER SAID HIS HEART GOES OUT TO THE FREEMAN FAMILY FOR THEIR LOSS.

TESTIMONY POINTED TO A STRAINED RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TWO AT TIMES. ON THE STAND MS. HIGDON CLAIMED FREEMAN HAD RAPED HER TWICE BEFORE AND SHE THOUGHT HE WAS ABOUT TO ATTACK HER AGAIN WHEN SHE SHOT HIM IN SELF DEFENSE.

PROSECUTORS CONTENDED HIGDON SHOT FREEMAN IN A FIT OF RAGE BECAUSE HE WAS LEAVING HER.

UPSON CO. WILL NOT FILE AN APPEAL IN JMF TRUCKING CASE

PASCHAL ENGLISH—ATTORNEY FOR THE UPSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SAID THE COUNTY HAS AGREED NOT TO FILE AN ANSWER TO AN APPEAL FILED IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT BY JMF TRUCKING CO/JAMES FORTNER FOR ITS PROPERTY AT 1409 COUNTY ROAD. THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RECENTLY DENIED A REZONING REQUEST BASED ON POTENTIAL DANGERS TO POTATO CREEK, THE WATER SUPPLY FOR THE CITY OF THOMASTON AND PARTS OF UPSON COUNTY—WHICH MEANS THE MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR COMPANY MIGHT HAVE TO MOVE FROM ITS PRESENT LOCATION.

ATTORNEY ENGLISH TOLD 101 NEWS, THE COUNTY AGREED NOT TO FILE AN APPEAL AT THE REQUEST OF FORTNER'S ATTORNEY STEVEN JONES OF GRIFFIN—AND THE TWO SIDES PLAN TO SIT DOWN AND HOLD DISCUSSIONS.

ASKED IF FORTNER COULD REMAIN AT THE PRESENT LOCATION ON COUNTY ROAD—COUNTY ATTORNEY ENGLISH WOULD ONLY SAY -- THAT EVERYTHING IS STILL ON THE TABLE.

DURING A PUBLIC HEARING—A NUMBER OF BUSINESSES TESTIFIED JMF TRUCKING IS VITAL TO THEIR OPERATIONS BECAUSE OF ITS EXPERT EQUIPMENT REPAIR. FORTNER SAYS HE EMPLOYS OVER 30 WITH AN ANNUAL PAYROLL OF OVER A MILLION DOLLARS.

HIGDON CASE HAS GONE TO THE JURY IN SPALDING CO.

THE MURDER TRIAL OF 24 YEAR OLD MARY KATHERINE HIGDON CHARGED WITH THE SHOOTING DEATH OF HER BOY FRIEND, STEVEN FREEMAN HAS GONE TO THE JURY IN SPALDING COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT.

CLOSING ARGUMENTS ENDED TUESDAY AFTERNOON AND DISTRICT ATTORNEY BEN COKER SAID JURY DELIBRATION WILL BEGIN WEDNESDAY MORNING AT THE SPALDING COUNTY COURTHOUSE.

COACH JAMES DAWKINS HAS PASSED AWAY

Mr. James Franklin Dawkins, known throughout the community as "Coach
Dawkins", died Monday, June 24th, 2019 at Riverside Health and Rehab. He
was 97.

Funeral services for Coach Dawkins will be held on Thursday, June 27th, 2019
at 2:00 PM at the Thomaston-Upson Civic Center with Rev. Bill Barber and Dr.
Glenn Gilstrap officiating. Burial will follow in South View Cemetery. The
family of Coach Dawkins will receive friends at the Civic Center on Thursday
from 1:00 pm until the funeral hour.

Coach Dawkins was born on May 17th, 1922 in Porterdale, the second of nine
children born to Franklin Thomas and Myrtle Mae Torbush Dawkins. His
parents moved their family to Thomaston when he was six years old, and he
attended East Thomaston Grammar School and graduated from R. E. Lee
Institute in 1940.

Coach Dawkins served in the U. S. Army from 1942 through 1946 and served in
the European Theater, France and England. During his military service he
played football for the Seine Comets, who played mostly in Europe in the mid
1940's.

After his military service he returned to Thomaston, attended Gordon
Military College and Erskine College and met Betty Jean Jones on the Upson
County Courthouse square. They married in 1948.

In 1951 Coach Dawkins began working at R. E. Lee Grammar School as the PE
teacher. Approximately three years later he began after school activities
at Weaver Park for the City and County school systems in addition to
teaching during the day. In 1975 with the construction of the Civic Center,

he became the recreation director. He retired from the Recreation
Department in 1984.

Among his many accomplishments and awards, Coach Dawkins received the
Georgia Parks and Recreation Distinguished Service Award for 35 years of
service to Thomaston-Upson County. In 2005 he was inducted as a charter
member into the Thomaston Upson Sports Hall of Fame and in 2009 he received
the Sertoma Service to Mankind Award. He was honored in a 2011 tribute by
the Upson Lee High School Athletic Booster Club. In 2014 he was awarded the

Thomason-Upson Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2013 the newly renovated Recreation Youth Football Complex was named in
his honor. Coach Dawkins produced numerous sports teams of quality and
great discipline, including the Little League State Champions in 1972. He
was instrumental in starting the Junior Peach Football Bowl. Many of his
athletes went on to have outstanding high school and collegiate careers.

After retirement Coach Dawkins enjoyed golfing, caring for his property,
meeting with his coffee club to discuss "going ons" in Upson County,
traveling with Mrs. Dawkins, and attending Upson-Lee home football games
where he was the "keeper" of the press box.

Coach Dawkins was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and was also a
member of the American Legion and the VFW.

Coach Dawkins and his wife were the proud parents of a son, James Franklin
"Jim" Dawkins, Jr., born on December 30, 1959. Jim was a member of Coach
Dawkins' 1972 Thomaston Little League All-Star team that won the state
championship and advanced to the southeastern playoffs in Florida. Jim died
of leukemia in 1979.

Coach Dawkins is survived by his wife, Betty Jean Jones Dawkins; two
sisters, Frances D. Deal of Atlanta and Fairy D. Jackson of Hiawassee; a
brother, Leonard Dawkins of Atlanta; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Thomaston-Upson
Recreation Youth Programs, P. O. Box 470, Thomaston, GA 30286.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences and
remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com

GRIFFIN'S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

THE GRIFFIN MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION THURSDAY, JULY 4TH 4PM TILL 9;30PM.

PARADE STARTS AT 5PM AND A NEW LOCATION-- FIREWORKS HAVE BEEN MOVED TO THE FIELD BEHIND GRIFFIN REGIONAL COLLEGE AND CAREER ACADEMY ACROSS THE STREET FROM VOLUNTEER PARK.

ACTIVITIES START AT 4PM WITH GAMES FOR THE KIDS, CONCESSIONS, A CAR SHOW AND LIVE MUSIC—AND FIREWORKS AFTER DARK.

[PARADE MARSHALLS ARE FAMILY MEMBERS OF SPALDING COUNTY'S RECENTLY DEPLOYED NATIONAL GUARD .

THE PARADE ROUTE—657 NORTH EXPRESSWAY TO RIGHT ON VARSITY ROAD, LEFT ON SPALDING DRIVE TO LEFT ON SOLOMON ST. AND LEFT ON, BACK DOWN TO NORTH EXPRESSWAY, CIRCLING VOLUNTEER PARK. 

AIRMAN KENNETH STAHL OF MEANSVILLE

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. – A 2018 Cross Point Christian Academy graduate and Meansville, Georgia, native in the U.S. Navy supports the nation’s nuclear deterrence mission.

Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Erica Gardner

Airman Kenneth Stahl is a naval aircrewman (avionics) serving with Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training, a versatile command capable of providing maintenance training, centralized student management and support to E-6B Mercury aviation squadrons consisting of VQ-3 and VQ-4 in the execution of their training responsibilities.

Stahl is responsible for maintaining the aircraft and providing a nuclear deterrence for our country.

Stahl credits success in the Navy to many of the lessons learned growing up in Meansville.

“I learned to always try my best and to persevere through the toughest times,” said Stahl. “My high school football coach taught me to always be honest, show up on time and he always pushed me to do better.”

The mission stems from the original 1961 Cold War order known as ‘Take Charge and Move Out!’ Adapted as TACAMO and now the command’s nickname, today, the men and women of TACAMO continue to provide a survivable communication link between national decision makers and the nation’s nuclear weapons.

The commander-in-chief issues orders to members of the military who operate nuclear weapons aboard submarines, aircraft or in land-based missile silos. Sailors aboard TACAMO E-6 Mercury aircraft provide the one-of-a-kind and most-survivable communication needed for this critical mission.

“The command is very family oriented and everyone has your back,” said Stahl.

The Navy's presence aboard an Air Force base in the middle of America may seem like an odd location given its distance from any ocean; however, the central location allows for the deployment of aircraft to both coasts and the Gulf of Mexico on a moment’s notice. This quick response is key to the success of the nuclear deterrence mission.

“Just knowing that I'm doing something to protect our country,” said Stahl.

Sailors serving from America’s heartland take pride in the vital mission they support as well as the nuclear deterrence they help provide.

“My father was in the Navy and I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” said Stahl. “It also means a lot to protect my family and friends.” 

Posted 20 hours ago by Navy

Labels: 30256 CNATT OKC

 

UPSON CO. CONSOLIDATION OF WASTE & WATER DEPARMENT

Monday, June 24, 2019 PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE UPSON COUNTY ANNOUNCES THE CONSOLIDATION OF THE WASTE DEPARTMENT AND WATER DEPARTMENT THOMASTON, GA - Chairman Norman Allen and the Upson County Board of Commissioners are pleased to announce the consolidation of the Waste Department and Water Department to a Utility Department. Effective Thursday, July 18, 2019, the County will be accepting Waste and Water Payments in one location. The payments will be accepted at the current Water Department at 605 West Gordon Street. We will continue accepting payments only at the Waste Department 106 East Lee Street, until August 30, 2019. The Board of Commissioner continues to look for ways to eliminate duplications of processes, to create efficiencies and find cost savings. The citizens who receive both services will now only receive one utility bill. We look forward to continue serving the citizens of Upson County!

STUDENT SERVICE CENTER OPEN AT GORDON ST. COLLEGE

Student Service Center Officially Opens
Gordon State College officially opened its newest campus addition this week with a ribbon cutting celebration and tour of the Student Services Center.
The 11,271 square-foot building at the corner of College Drive and Spencer Street, features desktop and laptop computer stations, a waiting room for parents and a meeting room that can accommodate seating for 60 or used for events that require open space. Sliding glass partitions offer privacy while still allowing natural light and an open feel.
The Center will house admissions, financial aid, and personnel from the bursar’s office who will handle student accounts.
The University System of Georgia Board of Regents allocated funding for the $3 million project from its minor capital projects budget.
The building was designed by JMA Architecture, Interiors, Planning, Perry, Ga. Benning Construction Company, Atlanta, was in charge of construction.

24-YEAR OLD MARY KATHERINE HIGDON ON TRIAL FOR MURDER

IN SPALDING COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT --THE STATE RESTED FRIDAY MORNING AFTER PRESENTING ITS CASE IN THE MURDER TRIAL OF 24-YEAR OLD MARY KATHERINE HIGDON CHARGED WITH THE SHOOTING DEATH OF HER BOY FRIEND STEVEN FREEMAN AT THEIR RESIDENCE ON SUNNYBROOK DRIVE -- AUGUST 2018. DISTRICT ATTORNEY BEN COKER TOLD 101 NEWS FRIDAY AFTERNOON —HE EXPECTS THE TRIAL TO LAST POSSIBLY UNTIL TUESDAY.

PROSECUTORS SAY MS. HIGDON—AT THE TIME A TEACHER'S ASSISTANT -- SHOT FREEMAN IN A FIT OF RAGE BUT HIGDON'S DEFENSE ATTORNEY SAID THE CASE HAS BEEN A RUSH TO JUDGEMENT ---- MS. HIGDON CLAIMS THE GUN WENT OFF WHEN SHE HANDED IT TO FREEMAN.

IN OPENING STATEMENTS---ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY ASHTON FALLIN SAID FREEMAN WAS PLANNING TO MOVE-OUT TO THE NORTH GA. MOUNTAINS-- AND HIGDON WAS UPSET ABOUT IT.   

STATE REP KEN PULLIN HONORS COM. POWERS

ATLANTA – State Representative Ken Pullin (R-Zebulon) requests that flags located throughout Pike County be lowered and flown at half-staff in honor of the late Pike CountyCommissioner Marvin T. “Tommy” Powers, who passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2019 at the age of 83.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Commissioner Powers, a valued member of his community,” said Rep. Pullin. “My wife, Shelby, and I are keeping the Powers family and the Pike County community in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Commissioner Powers was born on November 20, 1935, in Union Point, son of the late Samuel Felton Powers and the late Beulah Mae Gossett Powers. His family moved to Pike County when he was in the first grade. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during the Korean War. He was self-employed for many years, having operated Powers Country Store, Powers Superette, and Seven Oaks Restaurant. He served as Pike County Coroner for eight years and was serving his fourth term as Pike County Commissioner at the time of his passing. Commissioner Powers was a long time member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church and Oak Hill Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Essie Mae Martin, and brothers, Sam and Tyler Powers.

Commissioner Powers is survived by his wife of 63 years, Charlotte Powers; daughter and son-in-law, Lynda and Edward Sisson of Griffin; son and daughter-in-law, Gordon and Missy Powers of Meansville; grandchildren, Jared and Luke Sisson, Parker, Carson, Bailey, and Landon Powers; several nieces and nephews.

The funeral services for Commissioner Powers will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill Baptist Church. The burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Friends may visit the family on Wednesday, June 19, 2019 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

PIKE CO. COMMISSIONER TOMMY POWERS PASSED AWAY

Mr. Marvin T. “Tommy” Powers, age 83, of Meansville, passed away June 17, 2019, at Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital.

Tommy was born on November 20, 1935, in Union Point, son of the late Samuel Felton Powers and the late Beulah Mae Gossett Powers. His family moved to Pike County when he was in the first grade. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during the Korean War. He was self employed for many years having operated Powers Country Store, Powers Superette, and Seven Oaks Restaurant. He served as Pike County Coroner for 8 years and was currently serving his 4th term as Pike County Commissioner. Tommy was a long time member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church and currently a member of Oak Hill Baptist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Essie Mae Martin; brothers, Sam and Tyler Powers.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Charlotte Powers; daughter and son in law, Lynda and Edward Sisson of Griffin; son and daughter in law, Gordon and Missy Powers of Meansville; grandchildren, Jared and Luke Sisson, Parker, Carson, Bailey, and Landon Powers; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday June 20, 2019, at 11:00 AM, at Oak Hill Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery. Friends may visit the family on Wednesday June 19, 2019, from 5-7 PM, at the funeral home.

UPDATE ON SPALDING OFFICER AMANDA MOORE

ACCORDING TO SHERIFF DARRELL DIX, SPALDING COUNTY DETENTION OFFICER AMANDA MOORE, ALLEGEDLY SHOT IN THE HEAD BY HER 16 YEAR OLD ADOPTED DAUGHTER , WHILE IN BED ASLEEP WEDNESDAY , IS SHOWING SIGNS OF IMPROVEMENT.

OFFICER MOORE, AGE 34 HAS A LONG ROAD TO RECOVERY, ACCORDING TO THE SHERIFF, BUT SHE HAS RESPONDED TO DOCTORS COMMANDS AND IS IN STABLE CONDITION AT ATLANTA MEDICAL CENTER.

HER DAUGHTER APPEARED AT AN ARRAIGNMENT HEARING THURSDAY AND WAS RETURNED TO THE REGIONAL YOUTH DETENTION CENTER IN CLAYTON COUNTY.

SHERIFF DIX SAYS HE HAS CONSULTED WITH THE OFFICE OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY BEN COKER AND THE SHERIFF HAS RECOMMENDED THE TEEN BE TRIED AS AN ADULT.

AFTER THE ALLEGED SHOOTING AT THEIR ETHERIDGE MILL RESIDENCE, THE TEEN WAS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY A SHORT TIME LATER WALKING ON ETHERIDGE MILL ROAD—BUT DID NOT HAVE THE 9MILLIMETER HANDGUN ALLEGEDLY USED IN THE SHOOTING—NOT THE OFFICERS DEPARTMENT ISSUED WEAPON.

AFTER THE SHOOTING, OFFICER MOORE'S SON RAN TO A NEIGHBORS, ONE A SPALDING COUNTY FIRE-FIGHER AND HIS WIFE A NURSE AND THEY RENDERED AID TILL EMS ARRIVED.

GUILTY VERDICT FOR CHILD ABUSE IN SPALDING CO.

This morning, a Spalding County jury convicted Versaches Evans of Aggravated Battery for fracturing his infant daughter's ribs. His daughter was 12 weeks old when the injuries were discovered. He was charged with additional counts; however, the jury was unable to reach a verdict on those counts. 

On the Aggravated Battery, Senior Judge Matthew Simmons sentenced the defendant to 20 years with the first 12 years to be served in prison. Takiah Wilson, the biological mother was also charged with the crimes. The jury acquitted Wilson. 

Chief Assistant District Attorney Marie Broder and Assistant District Attorney Ashton Fallin tried the case for the State. The case was presented over 3 days and included testimony from law enforcement and medical doctors from local hospitals and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

District Attorney Ben Coker said, "child abuse cases are exceptionally difficult to prosecute and difficult for juries to consider. I respect the jury's decision in this case. My heartfelt thanks goes out to law enforcement, Dr. Messner from Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, and my staff, especially Marie and Ashton, for their fight for this helpless victim."

A NEW ANIMAL SHELTER FOR PIKE CO ?

AT WEDNESDAY'S MEETING, THE PIKE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISCUSSED A LETTER FROM LOCAL ATTORNEY WALKER CHANDLER REGARDING A DONATION FROM THE DR. C.L. CHANDLER FOUNDATION FOR UP TO $250,000 TO BUILD A NEW ANIMAL SHELTER IN PIKE COUNTY.

THE FOUNDATION OF DR. CHANDLER OF ATLANTA, THE FATHER OF WALKER CHANDLER, HAS DONATED FUNDS TO ZOO ATLANTA IN THE PAST AND FOCUSES ON ANIMAL-RELATED PROJECTS.

DR. CHANDLER'S WIFE WINNIE JONES CHANDLER IS THE MOTHER OF THREE FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS.

THE LETTER REQUESTS THAT PLANS FOR THE ANIMAL SHELTER SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE FOUNDATION BY OCT. 15TH WITH THE FUNDS BECOMING AVAILABLE BY THE END OF THE YEAR. COUNTY MANAGER BOBBY BICKLEY SAID $250,000 SHOULD COMPLETELY FUND A NEW SHELTER AND HE IS CHECKING ON OTHER NEAR-BY SHELTERS FOR IDEAS.

COMMISSION CHAIRMAN BRIAR JOHNSTON TOLD 101 NEWS—THE DONATION WOULD ALLOW THE COUNTY TO PURCHASE A VEHICLE FOR THE SHELTER, AND THE BOARD PROJECTS IT WOULD NOT SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE OPERATING COSTS OF THE ANIMAL CONTROL PROGRAM, PERHAPS JUST IN UTILITIES.

THE BOARD IS MOVING FOWARD TO ACCEPT THE DONATION. 

PRIDE OF PIKE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

THE 2019 PRIDE OF PIKE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION HOSTED BY PIKE COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION AUTHORITY, SATURDAY JUNE 29TH AT 4PM, AT THE PIKE COUNTY SOCCER COMPLEX. PRESENTING SPONSOR—RESURGENS ORTHOPAEDICS-- FREE ADMISSION, $5 PARKING FEE FOR EACH VEHICLE. KIDS ACTIVITIES, FOOD, A TRACTOR SHOW AND A SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS SHOW.

ENTERTAINMENT BY AMERICAN IDOL CONTESTANT ISAAC STREETMAN. BIG PARADE AT 3;30 -- GRAND MARSHALL THE STATE CHAMPION PIKE COUNTY PIRATES BASEBALL TEAM.

SAT. JUNE 29TH.

PIKE COUNTY'S TRISTEN ENGLISH, ALL AMERICAN

PIKE COUNTY'S TRISTEN ENGLISH OF THE GA. TECH BASEBALL TEAM HAS BEEN NAMED 3RD TEAM ALL-AMERICAN BY BASEBALL AMERICA. TRISTEN WAS DRAFTED IN THE 3RD ROUND OF THE MAJOR LEAGUE DRAFT BY THE ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS AND HAS REPORTED TO THEIR FARM TEAM IN OREGON.

TRISTEN WAS A FINALIST FOR THE JOHN OLERUD TWO-WAY PLAYER OF THE YEAR BATTED 346 AND WAS 3-0 AS A PITCHER.

JAMES FORTNER TAKING UPSON CO TO COURT

JAMES FORTNER IS TAKING UPSON COUNTY TO COURT AFTER THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RULED HE HAS TO MOVE HIS TRUCKING COMPANY FROM ITS LOCATION ON COUNTY ROAD BECAUSE ITS IN A-R ZONING AND ITS A DANGER TO POTATO CREEK—THE WATER SUPPLY FOR THE CITY OF THOMASTON AND PARTS OF UPSON COUNTY.

FORTNER FILED HIS APPEAL IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT ON THE 29TH DAY OF THE 30 DAY APPEAL WINDOW. COUNTY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN NORMAN ALLEN HAS SAID , THE COUNTY WILL WORK WITH HIM TO RELOCATE HIS BUSINESS BUT FORTNER WANTS TO KEEP IT WHERE IT IS, A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR BUSINESS WITH AN ANNUAL PAYROLL OF OVER ONE MILLION DOLLARS.

SCOTT BLACKSTOCK SWORN-IN TO GBED

LAST THURSDAY, GOVERNOR BRIAN KEMP CONDUCTED SWEARING-IN CEREMONIES FOR SEVEN APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS—ONE OF THOSE, THOMASTON BUSINESSMAN SCOTT BLACKSTOCK TO THE GA. BOARD OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT—A FORMER MEMBER OF THE THOMASTON-UPSON IDA.

FOLLOWING HIS APPOINTMENT, BLACKSTOCK TOLD 101 NEWS HE PLANS TO WORK TO RECRUIT NEW JOBS FOR RURAL GEORGIA.

GRIFFIN CHILD KILLED BY WRONG WAY DRIVER

On Sunday, June 9, 2019, Henry County First Responders were dispatched to an accident with injuries involving a wrong way driver on Hwy 19/41 just North of Circle Drive in Hampton. The accident involved three vehicles and resulted in one fatality. Preliminary investigation has revealed that a White Ford F-150 traveling the wrong way northbound in the southbound lanes of travel of Hwy 19/41 collided with two southbound vehicles, being a red Mitsubishi Galant and a Black Chevy Suburban. All three drivers of the vehicles and three passengers of the Chevy Suburban were transported to area hospitals. Jacie Webb, 12 years of age, Griffin Georgia, died as a result of her injuries.

TRISTIN ENGLISH DRAFTED BY DIAMONDBACKS

Tristin English’s dreams of being a professional baseball player is one step closer. On Tuesday, in the third round of the 2019 MLB Draft, the Arizona Diamondbacks selects Tristin English with the 93rd overall pick.

English, a three-time first team All ACC member was the first Jacket to be drafted in the 2019 MLB Draft.

The two-way star for the Jackets had a tremendous junior season that pushed him up draft boards across the league and his NCAA regional performance only raised eyebrows more.

This season, English hit .346/.427/.710 in 214 at bats. He hit 18 home runs on the season while driving in 71 base runners. English performed well on the mound as well for the Jackets in 2019, going 3-0 with a 3.70 ERA over 15 appearances.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SILVERTOWN, 90 YEARS OLD

90 years ago , in June of 1929, Silvertown Historic Community, a mill village was built to serve Martha Mills employees, became incorporate. It was later annexed by the city of Thomaston in 1958.

Happy 90th Birthday Silvertown!

Thomaston Upson Landmark Legacy (TULL) will be celebrating on June 29, Saturday by giving away FREE

Ice-cream cones & lemonade to our community from 11:00-1:00pm at the entryway of Silvertown. Adjacent to the tennis & Pickleball courts located at The Greatest Generation Memorial Park.

WASTEWATER SPILL CITY OF THOMASTON

Public Notification
Sanitary Sewer Overflow at Collection System
Walmart Lift Station Force Main
County: Upson
Date of Release: 6/06/2019
Contact Person: Brian Kelly
Phone: 706-646-8031
Mailing Address: 340 N Center Street
City: Thomaston
Zip: 30286
On June 6th, ESG was checking the force main behind the Walmart department store due to low flows at Town Branch wastewater plant. After investigating, we found the pipe leaving the Walmart lift station was compromised, allowing sewage to leak when the pumps were running. The leak was found at 10:00 am. We shut the lift station down and started the repairs. We were able to get the leak stopped at 4:00 pm when the force main was repaired. The station was brought back on line at approximately 5:30 pm. There was a release of 50 gallons per minute for 70 minutes for a total of 3,500 gallons. The release was due to the pipe having to be cut and fitted for proper repair. When the pipe was cut, the backflow from the force main overcame our pumping capability. We were able to recover approximately 1,000 gallons by pumping into the gravity line feeding Walmart lift station until the station reached full capacity. The release of 2,500 gallons reached a tributary of Potato Creek. A spill notice sign has been posted at the site. Should you have any questions, I can be reached at 706-646-8031.


The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has been notified and the affected area has been treated within the regulations of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call the above listed contact persons.

UPDATE; DRUG CONSPIRACY CASE

THOMASTON POLICE CHIEF MIKE RICHARDSON TOLD 101 NEWS FRIDAY—ALMOST A DOZEN INDICTMENTS BY SPECIAL PRESENTMENT BY THE UPSON COUNTY GRAND JURY FOR OPIOID DISTRIBUTION HAS LEAD TO SOME NEW LEADS IN THE MURDER INVESTIGATION OF STEPHEN EARLES OF 4TH AVE. IN NOVEMBER OF LAST YEAR. EARLES WIFE JOYCE EARLES WAS ONE OF THOSE INDICTED AND ARRESTED.

THE CHIEF WOULD NOT SAY MORE—BECAUSE HE SAID THE INVESTIGATION IS ON-GOING.

STEPHEN EARLES, WHO WAS DISABLED WAS BEATED UNCONSCIOUS AND DIED TWO DAYS LATER IN MACON. JOYCE EARLES WHO WAS ALSO ATTACKED, SAID TWO MASKED MEN BROKE INTO THEIR HOME AND JUMPED THEM.

MS. EARLES ALLEGEDLY WAS SELLING OPIOID PILLS PRESCRIBED FOR HER HUSBAND. DISTRICT ATTORNEY BEN COKER SAID SHE WAS SCHEDULED FOR ARRAIGNMENT IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT THIS PAST WEEK— SHE WAIVED ARRAIGNMENT AND ENTERED A PLEA OF NOT GUILTY.

THOMASTON P.D. DRUG SALES CONSPIRACY

A November 2018 Home invasion/Homicide at 224 Fourth Ave., Thomaston, Georgia leads to multiple drug indictments and arrests by the Thomaston Police Department.

On Monday, November 26, 2018 Officers from the Thomaston Police Department responded to 224 Fourth Ave. SE, Thomaston, Georgia in reference to a violent home invasion. When officers entered the residence they made contact with a female victim, Joyce Earles and her husband, Stephen Earles who was on the floor unconscious and severely beaten. Mrs. Earles also had visible injuries from being assaulted.

Both subjects were transported to the Upson Regional Medical Center for treatment where Mr. Earles was later transport to Macon for further treatment where he expired two days later as result of his injuries. According to Mrs. Earles two unknown subjects broke into the residence at which time they were assaulted. The initial investigation would indicate that this was a robbery attempt. As the case turned to a homicide investigation that continued into 2019 and is still unsolved, it was determined that the initial home invasion was a robbery attempt resulting from illegal drug activity being conducted by Mrs. Earles at 224 Fourth Ave., Thomaston, Georgia.

During the months to follow the investigation lead to numerous amounts of evidence indicating that Mrs. Earles was conspiring with multiple suspects in an illegal drug operation in which she was illegally buying and selling controlled substances. This information and evidence lead to a special presentment to the Upson County Grand Jury in May of 2019 by TPD investigators at which time nine individuals were indicted for conspiracy to possess a controlled substance and or using a telecommunication device to facilitate a drug transaction all violations of the Georgia Controlled Substance Act.

Based on the indictments, the following individuals where issued felony bench warrants for their arrests: 

Joyce Earles
William Haege, Jr.
Ryan Joiner
Michael Paul Clark
Michelle Clark Wright
Neely Lynn Spratlin
Jeanette Hoyal
Heath Edward Warmack
Cody James Butler

As of the time of this release all the suspects have been arrested with the exception of Ryan Joiner and Heath Warmack. Anyone with information as to their whereabouts should call the Thomaston police Department at 706-647-5455.

UPSON CO. COMMISSIONERS JUNE 11TH AGENDA

UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 6:00 P.M. – Regular Commission Meeting City/County Meeting Room –June 11, 2019 AGENDA I. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Norman Allen II. INVOCATION III. PUBLIC HEARING Concepts, Inc., representing Southern Communications Services, Inc. d/b/a/ Southern Linc has requested a special exception (SPX2019-03) for a new 400 ft tall, telecommunications tower. The 10,000 property under consideration, to be leased from Robert C. and Sandra L. Shetler, is located off Allen and Florette Roads and is more referred to as being in Land Lots 300 and 312 of the 1st Land District and found on Tax Map 089 Parcel 094C. The SPX2019-04 applicant is Brenda G. Gassett of Yatesville, Georgia. Ms Gassett has requested a special exception for a 1,000 sf, family cemetery to be located at 5744 Yatesville Hwy/SR 74. The A-R-zoned property is more referred to as being in Land Lot 194 of the 11th Land District and found on Tax Map 112 Parcel 004. The SPX2019-06 applicant is Charles Harper of Thomaston, Georgia. Mr. Harper has requested a special exception for a temporary housing RV, while he constructs his home. The A-R-zoned property is located at 321 Charlie Jones Road and, is more referred to as being in Land Lot 125 of the 15th Land District and found on Tax Map 021 Parcel 01B. IV. PUBLIC COMMENTS Speakers must state their names and address, and must direct all comments to the Board Chair. Any questions must be put in writing and submitted to the Clerk or the Commissioner over your jurisdiction. V. CONSENT AGENDA a. Regular Meeting Minutes May 28, 2019 b. Approval of vehicle purchase for Extension Office and County Work Crew c. Approval of a Tax Sale resolution d. Approval of properties for the August tax sale e. Approval of a Resolution for a sub-committee for Water Waste Water for Service Delivery Strategy VI. NEW BUSINESS f. County Manager, Commissioners, and County Attorney Comments g. Discussion of surplus of real property

THOMASTON MAN MISSING FOR A WEEK, BACK AT HOME

ACCORDING TO THOMASTON POLICE , A LOCAL MAN MISSING FOR A WEEK, WAS BACK AT HOME TUESDAY NIGHT AND HE WAS O.K. RICHARD LEWIS, AGE 54 LEFT HOME MAY 29, AND HIS CAR WAS FOUND IN TALBOT COUNTY FRIDAY BY THE GA. STATE PATROL. IT WAS PARKED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD WITH THE KEYS IN IT BUT HE WAS NO WHERE TO BE FOUND.

A SEARCH WAS CONDUCTED MONDAY BY THE THOMASTON P.D., GBI, GA. DNR AND TALBOT COUNTY DEPUTIES BUT HE WAS NOT LOCATED.

A NEW ALCOHOL ORDINANCE FOR THOMASTON ?

A THOMASTON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE WILL LOOK INTO CHANGING THE ALCOHOL ORDINANCE, PERHAPS DROPPING THE REQUIREMENT THAT POURING LICENSEES PROVIDE 50% OF REVENUE IN FOOD SALES.

AT TUESDAY'S MEETING, CITY MANAGER RUSSELL THOMPSON SAID THE LOCAL GOLF COURSE HAS A POURING LICENSE BUT NO LONGER HAS A RESTAURANT, AND THE IDA HAS BEEN WORKING TO RECRUIT A MORE UPSCALE HOTEL, BUT THE BIG CHAINS WOULD PROBABLY WANT A BAR WITHOUT THE REQUIREMENT OF HAVING A RESTAURANT.

COUNCIL ATTORNEY JOEL BENTLEY ADVISED—IT MIGHT BE BEST TO DRAFT A NEW ALCOHOL ORDINANCE, AS ITS 20 YEARS OLD.

AT THE PREVIOUS MEETING, COUNCIL ADDED AN AMENDMENT TO THE ALCOHOL ORDINANCE TO PROHIBIT POP-UP NIGHT CLUBS FROM ILLEGAL SALES VIA BROWN BAGGING, ESTABLISHMENTS THAT HAVE NO ALCOHOL LICENSE.

HOPE BLACKSTOCK'S TRIP TO NORMANDY

THE PRESLEY BROTHERS OF LIFSEY SPRINGS IN PIKE COUNTY, EMMETT, HERBERT AND NOLAN WERE AMONG THE INVASION FORCES ON D-DAY 75 YEARS AGO.

FIRST LT. HERBERT PRESLEY WAS ONE OF THE FIRST TO LAND ON OMAHA BEACH AND WAS KILLED ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF ST. LO.

HE WAS BURIED AT NORMANDY BUT LATER MOVED TO SOUTHVIEW CEMETERY IN THOMASTON.

THOMASTONIAN THOMAS BENJAMIN TRICE WAS KILLED A MONTH AFTER D-DAY AND IS BURIED AT NORMANDY.

HOPE AND SCOTT BLACKSTOCK VISITED NORMANDY LAST MONTH ON A TOUR OF WORLD WAR I BATTLEFIELDS AND THE NORMANDY BEACHES WITH RUSS HEAD OF THE TRAVEL CONNECTION.

THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW WITH HOPE WILL AIR IN THE 9 O'CLOCK HOUR FRIDAY ON FUN 101.

EX-SOUTHCREST BANK DATA CENTER TO BE SOLD?

101 NEWS WAS TOLD THERE WERE NO FORMAL BIDS AT THE RECENT AUCTION FOR THE — VACANT SOUTHCREST BANK DATA CENTER BUILDING IN THE BIZ/TECH PARK AT THE AIRPORT—BUT WITH REPORTED BACKGROUND NEGOTIATIONS A SALE COULD BE IN THE WORKS.

THE THOMASTON-UPSON IDA SPENT $5000 ON GRASS CUTTING SO THE PARK WOULD LOOK NICE FOR THE AUCTION.

AT THE MAY MEETING THE IDA TABLED A REQUEST BY DUNKIN'S ENGINEER TO SHARE IN THE COST OF MOVING THER NORTHCREEK CENTER SIGN THAT WOULD CAUSE IRREGULAR TRAFFIC FLOW WHEN THE COMPANY OPENS THE DUNKIN DO NUTS/BASKIN ROBBINS STORE IN THE COMING MONTHS BETWEEN MCDONALD'S AND WAFFLE HOUSE.

COLUMBUS SIGNS AND LIGHTING SUBMITTED A BID OF $27,000 FOR MOVING THE SIGN—BUT SOME IDA MEMBERS INDICATED IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN DUNKIN'S PROPERTY DEAL WITH THE OWNERS OF THE SHOPPING CENTER.

CREDITS COMING FOR GA. POWER CUSTOMERS

ATLANTA – June 4, 2019 – The second of three credits associated with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 will be applied directly to Georgia Power customers’ bills in June. These credits are a result of the reduction in Georgia Power’s federal corporate tax rate from 35% down to 21%.

Georgia Power customers will receive the credit based upon energy consumption from September 2018 through April 2019. The typical residential customer using an average of 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month would receive a credit of approximately $18 on their June Georgia Power bill. The actual amount of the credit will vary based on a customer’s specific energy usage.

THOMASTON NATIVE THOMAS BENJAMIN TRICE IS BURIED AT NORMANDY

THURSDAY, JUNE 6TH IS THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE D-DAY INVASION AT NORMANDY. THOMASTON NATIVE DENNIS TRICE OF GREENVILLE , SOUTH CAROLINA, TOLD 101 NEWS ABOUT HIS UNCLE THOMAS BENJAMIN TRICE OF THOMASTON WHO DIED IN COMBAT AUGUST FIRST, 1944 AND IS BURIED IN THE CEMETERY AT NORMANDY IN FRANCE, WHICH HE VISITED WHEN HE LIVED IN EUROPE.

101 FM WILL AIR THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW WITH DENNIS TRICE, THURSDAY IN THE 9 O'CLOCK HOUR ON THE MICK IN THE MORNING SHOW.  

UPSON CO TAX SALE TUESDAY 10AM COURTHOUSE

UPSON COUNTY TAX COMMISSIONER ANDY CHASTAIN ANNOUNCES A TAX SALE TUESDAY 10AM ON THE COURTHOUSE STEPS. ANYONE WHO WANTS TO BID ON THE PROPERTY SHOULD SIGN-UP ASAP AT THE TAX COMMISSIONERS OFFICE IN THE COURTHOUSE ANNEX.  

LAGRANGE MAN MISSING ON FLINT RIVER SUNDAY

ACCORDING TO THE UPSON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE—A TROUP COUNTY MAN , FLOATING WITH FRIENDS-- REPORTED MISSING ON THE FLINT RIVER, SUNDAY.

33 YEAR OLD JOHNNY JOE PAYNE OF LAGRANGE WAS FOUND BY UPSON SEARCH AND RESCUE IN A TREE LINE OFF DOUBLE BRIDGES ROAD. HE WAS CHECKED-OUT BY EMT'S AND RELEASED.

DEPUTIES SAID PAYNE GOT A LEECH ON HIM ABOUT A MILE SOUTH OF SPREWELL BLUFF AND GOT OUT OF THE RIVER, AND HIS GIRL FRIEND GOT WORRIED ABOUT HIM AND CALLED 911.