With todays 34-7 dismantling of the Florida Gators in Jacksonville and tonight's win by Mississippi State over Kentucky, the Dawgs have locked up the SEC East.
The Dawgs will face the west division winner on December 4th in Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
South Metro's News Leader
Saturday, October 30, 2021
Thursday, October 28, 2021
Huge Buck Killed In Upson County
On October 18th, Brandon Barfield killed a 208 pound buck that has green scored 174 gross points with no deductions on the Boone and Crockett scoring system. The buck is a 10 pointer with 4 additional small scorable points. The rack must dry for a 60 day period before an official final score can be recorded.
Brandon had spotted the buck last year from his ATV as it fed in a pasture along with several horses, he got a shot off but missed as the buck was running across a field.
In September of this year, Brandon and a friend went back to the field to set up some trail cameras and stands. They jumped the buck and realized as it trotted across the field that it was the same one he had taken a shot at last year.
Brandon waited until gun season opened in October and when the wind was right, he set up on the field that afternoon. The big buck came out of the woods about 40 yards behind him and started running across the field. Brandon made several attempts to get the buck to stop and finally got his attention about 150 yards out, he stopped and Brandon got a shot, dropping him in the field.
If the green score holds, Brandon's buck will easily be one of the 10 largest ever killed in Upson County.
Mask Mandate Lifted
At the October 28th work session, the Board of Education voted 4-3 in favor of lifting the mask mandate within the Thomaston-Upson School System.
This action was taken after a review of school system, county, and state COVID-19 positive case data. Since October 1, only 3 positive cases have been reported within the Thomaston-Upson School System (2 students and 1 staff). According to DPH, T-U Schools data coincides with Upson County and Georgia case data, which are all trending downward at this time.
Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico stated that masks will continue to be highly encouraged within the schools along with other safety measures, such as social distancing when possible. He added that district administration will continue to monitor positive case reports within the school system and will keep the Board informed of these numbers. If there is a significant increase in positive cases within the schools, the BOE could choose to reinstate the mask mandate at any time.
WHY IS FUN 101 FM CARRYING THE WORLD SERIES ESPN FEED?
ONLY THE BRAVES FLAGSHIP STATION IN ATLANTA CAN AIR THE BRAVES BROADCAST CREW, ITS IN THE ESPN/MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CONTRACT.
THE WORLD SERIES RETURNS TO ATLANTA FRIDAY WITH IT TIED AT ONE GAME EACH.
GO BRAVES!
FRIDAY NIGHT WE WILL AIR UL-PEACH COUNTY FOOTBALL GAME AND JOIN THE BRAVES AT HALFTIME AND AFTER THAT GAME.
GANGLAND OPERATIVE ENTERS GUILTY PLEA IN UPSON CO
A GANGLAND OPERATIVE ENTERED A GUILTY PLEA IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT ON RICO CHARGES THURSDAY. THE DEFENDANT, RESHAD J. FELDER WAS SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS WITH THE FIRST TWO TO SERVE IN PRISON, CREDIT FOR TIME SERVED AND WHEN RELEASED FROM JAIL, BANISHMENT FROM THE FOUR COUNTIES OF THE GRIFFIN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT. SENTENCING JUDGE HONORBLE SCOTT L. BALLARD INSTRUCTED FELDER PAY A $5000 FINE AND HAVE NO CONTACT WITH ANY KNOWN GANG MEMBERS.
FELDER'S INDICTMENT FOR GANG ACTIVITIES WAS AMONG 40-ODD UNSEALED WITH GOVERNOR BRIAN KEMP PRESENT AT THE UPSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAST YEAR INVOLVING GANG MEMBERS THAT STRETCHED ALL THE WAY TO CALIFORNIA.
ACCORDING TO DISTRICT ATTORNEY MARIE BRODER, FELDER WAS SCHEDULED TO GO ON TRIAL NOV. IST IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT.
FELDER'S INDICTMENT FOR GANG ACTIVITIES WAS AMONG 40-ODD UNSEALED WITH GOVERNOR BRIAN KEMP PRESENT AT THE UPSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE LAST YEAR INVOLVING GANG MEMBERS THAT STRETCHED ALL THE WAY TO CALIFORNIA.
ACCORDING TO DISTRICT ATTORNEY MARIE BRODER, FELDER WAS SCHEDULED TO GO ON TRIAL NOV. IST IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT.
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
UPDATE MOLENA POLICE OFFICER NVOLVED SHOOTING
CITY OF MOLENA POLICE CHIEF MATT POLK SAYS A MOLENA POLICE DEPARTMENT RESERVE OFFICER INVOLVED IN A FATAL SHOOTING IN ATLANTA IS NOT THE OFFICER 101 NEWS HAS IDENTIFIED.
SEVERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES CONFIRMED THAT NAME TO US BUT CHIEF POLK SAYS ITS INCORRECT AND WE REGRET THE ERROR. CHIEF POLK SAID THE OFFICER WHO WAS SHOT IN THE NECK IS IN STABLE CONDITION AT GRADY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL IN ATLANTA.
CHIEF POLK TOLD US HE IS WAITING ON RESULTS FROM THE GBI INVESTIGATION BEFORE HE RELEASES THE NAME OF THE MOLENA OFFICER.
ACCORDING TO THE GBI, THE OFFICER WAS WORKING WITH ATL PLUS, A PARKING ENFORCEMENT COMPANY AND HAD A CONFRONTATION WITH AN ANGRY MAN OVER A PARKING TICKET.
HE FIRED A SHOT AND WOUNDED THE OFFICER AND THE OFFICER RETURNED FIRE AND KILLED THE MAN, IDENTIFIED AS 25 YEAR OLD JAMON DARRYL MCCALL OF LITHONIA. A FEMALE AT THE SCENE WAS GRAZED BY A BULLET AND RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT.
CHIEF POLK TOLD US HE IS WAITING ON RESULTS FROM THE GBI INVESTIGATION BEFORE HE RELEASES THE NAME OF THE MOLENA OFFICER.
ACCORDING TO THE GBI, THE OFFICER WAS WORKING WITH ATL PLUS, A PARKING ENFORCEMENT COMPANY AND HAD A CONFRONTATION WITH AN ANGRY MAN OVER A PARKING TICKET.
HE FIRED A SHOT AND WOUNDED THE OFFICER AND THE OFFICER RETURNED FIRE AND KILLED THE MAN, IDENTIFIED AS 25 YEAR OLD JAMON DARRYL MCCALL OF LITHONIA. A FEMALE AT THE SCENE WAS GRAZED BY A BULLET AND RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
U-L's Travon Walker Talks About Florida Game
Coach Kirby Smart, Latavious Brini and Upson-Lee's Travon Walker met with the media following Tuesday's practice to talk about Saturday's upcoming game with Florida.
Click HERE to read the entire transcript.
Click HERE to read the entire transcript.
BEYOND THE BELL UPSON CO
Beyond The Bell Upson County recently celebrated five successful years of preventing substance abuse among young people in Upson County and looks forward to the next five years with a call to action for community members.
Residents of Upson County are invited to join Beyond The Bell’s Community Prevention Coalition. Members of Beyond The Bell’s community prevention coalition attend monthly meetings to address issues in the communities specific to those they are located. The coalition aims to reduce risk factors and promote protective factors in the Upson County community in Thomaston, Yatesville, The Rock, Lincoln Park, Hannah’s Mill, Salem, and Sunset Village. “A reason why Beyond The Bell Upson County has been so successful with the community’s youth is because of the connections and resources that our coalition members bring,” said Beyond The Bell Upson County’s Interim Project Coordinator Sandra Dean. “We’d love to have more community members join our coalition to advocate for the youth of Upson so that each child has an opportunity to learn prevention methods and enjoy a bright future.”
Beyond The Bell offers programs in the local schools and community, including the Botvin Life Skills Training, which consists of a 7-week groundbreaking substance abuse and violence prevention program designed to promote mental health and positive youth development. Beyond The Bell also implements the “Positive Social Norms” campaign, which focuses on the fact that people’s behavior often is influenced by their perceptions of what is “normal” or “typical.” The problem is that people usually severely misperceive the typical behaviors or attitudes of their peers. For example, if people believe that the majority of their peers drink, then they are more likely to drink. Using social norms marketing to inform people that most of their peers do not drink can potentially lead them to avoid drinking.
Beyond The Bell encourages anyone interested in being involved in providing the community’s youth with a jump start in life to contact Sandra Dean at 770-285-6937. For more information about Beyond The Bell, its programs/resources and success all of the impacted communities, please visit beyondthebellkids.org or visit any of the BTB communities Facebook pages.
URMC WELCOMES LAURA MOORE M.D.
Upson Regional Medical Center is pleased to welcome Laura Moore, M.D. to Upson Family Physicians Zebulon location (alongside Kelli Bryant, PA-C) beginning November 1st.
Dr. Moore comes to Upson from Newnan VA Primary Care in Newnan, GA and Summit Urgent Care in Peachtree City, GA. Dr. Moore practices family medicine and is committed to providing comprehensive health care to patients of all ages. Her interests include pediatrics (family visits welcome), Sports/DOT physicals, chronic disease management, and preventive care. Dr. Moore earned her bachelor’s degree from Agnes Scott College and her medical degree from Mercer University. She did her residency at The Medical Center of Georgia. Dr. Moore is a board-certified member of the American Academy of Family Practice.
"I have discovered that one of the most rewarding aspects of Family Medicine is being able to get to know and treat the whole family. I am looking forward to the privilege of providing quality healthcare for the families of each of the communities in Pike County and the surrounding areas,” said Moore.
“Dr. Moore brings a passion for family medicine and excellent patient care experience to our Upson Family Physicians Zebulon practice. The opportunity to introduce her to the Pike County communities is very exciting for us. We are looking forward to working with her and welcoming Dr. Moore to the Upson team,” said Jennifer Thompson, Physician Practice Administrator.
Dr. Moore is accepting new patients. Her office is located at 7171 Hwy 19 S in Zebulon. To schedule an appointment, call Upson Family Physicians Zebulon at 770-567-7293.
Dr. Moore comes to Upson from Newnan VA Primary Care in Newnan, GA and Summit Urgent Care in Peachtree City, GA. Dr. Moore practices family medicine and is committed to providing comprehensive health care to patients of all ages. Her interests include pediatrics (family visits welcome), Sports/DOT physicals, chronic disease management, and preventive care. Dr. Moore earned her bachelor’s degree from Agnes Scott College and her medical degree from Mercer University. She did her residency at The Medical Center of Georgia. Dr. Moore is a board-certified member of the American Academy of Family Practice.
"I have discovered that one of the most rewarding aspects of Family Medicine is being able to get to know and treat the whole family. I am looking forward to the privilege of providing quality healthcare for the families of each of the communities in Pike County and the surrounding areas,” said Moore.
“Dr. Moore brings a passion for family medicine and excellent patient care experience to our Upson Family Physicians Zebulon practice. The opportunity to introduce her to the Pike County communities is very exciting for us. We are looking forward to working with her and welcoming Dr. Moore to the Upson team,” said Jennifer Thompson, Physician Practice Administrator.
Dr. Moore is accepting new patients. Her office is located at 7171 Hwy 19 S in Zebulon. To schedule an appointment, call Upson Family Physicians Zebulon at 770-567-7293.
Molena Reserve Police Officer Involved In Shooting
One man is dead and a reserve police officer from Molena is in the hospital after a shootout in Downtown Atlanta.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation reports the shooting happened on the 300 block of Luckie Street Monday around 10 p.m.
According to officials, the injured reserve officer was working for parking enforcement company ATL Plus and was sitting in his patrol vehicle when the suspect approached him and shot a firearm.
The reserve officer was shot in the neck and then returned fire, hitting and killing the gunman.
Police arrived at the scene and found the unidentified man already dead as well as a woman who appeared to be grazed by a bullet.
Paramedics took the woman to the hospital where at last check she is in stable condition.
After being shot, the reserve officer showed up at Grady Memorial Hospital. He's also in stable condition.
The GBI hasn't said why the gunman fired on the reserve officer, but Atlanta police reported the shooting stemmed from an altercation. This is the 80th officer-involved shooting the GBI has been asked to investigate this year.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation reports the shooting happened on the 300 block of Luckie Street Monday around 10 p.m.
According to officials, the injured reserve officer was working for parking enforcement company ATL Plus and was sitting in his patrol vehicle when the suspect approached him and shot a firearm.
The reserve officer was shot in the neck and then returned fire, hitting and killing the gunman.
Police arrived at the scene and found the unidentified man already dead as well as a woman who appeared to be grazed by a bullet.
Paramedics took the woman to the hospital where at last check she is in stable condition.
After being shot, the reserve officer showed up at Grady Memorial Hospital. He's also in stable condition.
The GBI hasn't said why the gunman fired on the reserve officer, but Atlanta police reported the shooting stemmed from an altercation. This is the 80th officer-involved shooting the GBI has been asked to investigate this year.
Monday, October 25, 2021
U-L Graduation Rate
The Georgia Department of Education has released graduation rate data for the class of 2021, and Upson-Lee High School has exceeded the state average for the seventh consecutive year.
Upson-Lee High School posted a graduation rate of 87.8%. The state of Georgia 2021 graduation rate average is 83.7%
Thomaston Man Died In Taylor County Wreck
ACCORDING TO POST 26 GA. STATE PATROL, A THOMASTON MOTORIST, RODNEY THOMAS, DIED IN A TAYLOR COUNTY ACCIDENT EARLY SUNDAY MORNING.
TWO PASSENGERS WERE INJURED, HIS SON, 12 YEAR OLD JALEN THOMAS, A UL MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT AND ANOTHER 18 YEAR OLD. JALEN WAS LIFE-FLIGHTED TO A MACON HOSPITAL THEN TRANSFERRED TO EGLESTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL.
JALEN REPORTEDLY SUFFERED A SKULL FRACTURE, NECK AND BACK TRAUMA AND A HIP FRACTURE.
GSP SAID IT WAS A ONE VEHICLE ACCIDENT, THE DECEASED MR. THOMAS WAS PULLING A SMALL TRAILER WITH HIS PICK-UP THAT WENT OUT OF CONTROL AND FLIPPED.
JALEN REPORTEDLY SUFFERED A SKULL FRACTURE, NECK AND BACK TRAUMA AND A HIP FRACTURE.
GSP SAID IT WAS A ONE VEHICLE ACCIDENT, THE DECEASED MR. THOMAS WAS PULLING A SMALL TRAILER WITH HIS PICK-UP THAT WENT OUT OF CONTROL AND FLIPPED.
Friday, October 22, 2021
MEET CITY OF THOMASTON MAYOR PRO TEM CANDIDATES
PUBLIC INVITED TO A Q & A-- MEET THE CANDIDATES EVENT FOR CITY OF THOMASTON MAYOR PRO TEM, TUESDAY 7;30 AT THE GOVERNMENT COMPLEX AUDITORIUM .
CITY OF THOMASTON ADVANCE VOTING
ADVANCE VOTING IN UPSON COUNTY, THROUGH THURSDAY, CITY OF THOMASTON 245 IN-PERSON AND 19 BY MAIL. TWO ISSUES ON THE BALLOT FOR CITY OF THOMASTON VOTERS. PACKAGE ALCOHOL SALES AND MAYOR PRO TEM WITH CANDIDATES SHARON KING, LORI LINDSEY AND INCUMBENT DOUG HEAD.
Tuesday, October 19, 2021
YATESVILLE'S WHITE HONORED
The event’s theme, “Cultivating the Next Georgia,” was hosted by the University System of Georgia Foundation. The net proceeds from generous sponsors and a live auction will support and provide student need-based scholarships for University System of Georgia (USG) students across the state during the 2021-22 academic year.
White, from Yatesville, Georgia, has been a GSC Foundation Trustee since 2015. In February of 2020, the GSC Foundation received the largest donation in its history, a landmark $255,000 gift from White. His personal investment to GSC, White said, “is to help further its mission regionally and state-wide. My focus remains in students from rural areas.”
COVID-19 Vaccination And Viral Transmission Data
The CDC COVID Data Tracker shows the United States at 57% of its total population fully vaccinated. Georgia lags behind at 47%. Among the area counties, Upson has consistently held the highest vaccination rate and is currently at 36%. Talbot and Taylor take the second and third spots at 28%, followed by Meriwether at 24%, Crawford 18%, Spalding 16%, Pike and Lamar Counties 14%, and Monroe trailing with only 8%.
For the first time since mid-July the level of viral transmission in Upson and Meriwether Counties has dropped from High to Substantial. All of the other surrounding counties remain at the High level. For both of these levels, the CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask in public, indoor settings.
For the first time since mid-July the level of viral transmission in Upson and Meriwether Counties has dropped from High to Substantial. All of the other surrounding counties remain at the High level. For both of these levels, the CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask in public, indoor settings.
% Total Population Fully Vaccinated | ||
2021 | June 15 | Oct 15 |
United States | 44% | 57% |
Georgia | 34% | 47% |
Upson County | 25% | 36% |
Talbot County | 19% | 28% |
Taylor County | 19% | 28% |
Meriwether County | 15% | 24% |
Crawford County | 11% | 18% |
Spalding County | 7% | 16% |
Pike County | 6% | 14% |
Lamar County | 6% | 14% |
Monroe County | 5% | 12% |
Source: CDC COVID Data Tracker | ||
Monday, October 18, 2021
SIGN-UP EVENT FOR BOY SCOUTS IN THOMASTON
DISTRICT BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA TRYING TO REIGNITE SCOUTING IN THOMASTON WITH A SIGN-UP EVENT AT THE CIVIC CENTER TUESDAY OCT. 26TH AT 6PM.
ANYONE K-12, BRING A PARENT OR GUARDIAN. SIGN-UP FEE $51 BUT ITS $26 IF YOU HAVE BEEN A SCOUT BEFORE.
POLITICAL FORUM ON FUN 101FM
FUN 101 FM PLANNING A POLITICAL FORUM THURSDAY 5:30PM FOR CANDIDATES IN THE NOVEMBER 2ND CITY OF THOMASTON ELECTION FOR MAYOR PRO TEM.
CANDIDATES INCLUDE SHARON KING, LORI LINDSEY AND INCUMBENT DOUG HEAD.
EARLY VOTING TOTALS IN UPSON CO. SAT.
29 In Person
4 Absentee by Mail
Grand Total Voted In Person- 209 Upson County Georgia
Grand Total Voted In Person- 209 Upson County Georgia
Friday, October 15, 2021
BROADBAND EXPANSION IN UPSON AND PIKE
AT WEDNESDAY'S MEETING THE PIKE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS APPROVED A MEMO OF UNDERSTANDING WITH WAV COM -- AN INDEPENDANT PHONE COMPANY IN WAVERLY HALL THAT PROVIDES FIBER OPTIC INTERNET-- THE UPSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SIGNED A M.O.U. WITH WAV COM ON TUESDAY NIGHT. IN PIKE COUNTY CONEXON WILL PARTNER WITH SOUTHERN RIVERS ENERGY TO SERVE SOME RESIDENTS -- BUT 3770 WILL BE LEFT OUT--THOSE ARE TARGETED BY WAV COM .
ITS A $9 MILLION PROJECT OVER 24 MONTHS-- PIKE WILL SEEK A STATE GRANT OF $4.5 MILLION AND IS REQUESTED TO CONTRIBUTE $1 MILLION WITH WAV COM PUTTING UP $3.7.
UPSON COUNTY'S PROJECT IS $8.9 MILLION AND THE COUNTY WILL CONTRIBUTE $2.2 MILLION IN FEDERAL COVID RELIEF FUNDS, WAVE COM WILL PUT UP $2 MILLION AND APPLY FOR A STATE GRANT OF $4.4 MILLION TO SERVE CUSTOMERS WITH BROADBAND.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE BETH CAMP ADDRESSED THE PIKE COMMISSIONERS DURING THE MEETING AND PLEDGED TO SEEK STATE FUNDING FOR BROADBAND EXPANSION IN PIKE, UPSON, AND LAMAR COUNTIES--CALLING IT A VITAL SERVICE FOR CITIZENS.
ITS A $9 MILLION PROJECT OVER 24 MONTHS-- PIKE WILL SEEK A STATE GRANT OF $4.5 MILLION AND IS REQUESTED TO CONTRIBUTE $1 MILLION WITH WAV COM PUTTING UP $3.7.
UPSON COUNTY'S PROJECT IS $8.9 MILLION AND THE COUNTY WILL CONTRIBUTE $2.2 MILLION IN FEDERAL COVID RELIEF FUNDS, WAVE COM WILL PUT UP $2 MILLION AND APPLY FOR A STATE GRANT OF $4.4 MILLION TO SERVE CUSTOMERS WITH BROADBAND.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE BETH CAMP ADDRESSED THE PIKE COMMISSIONERS DURING THE MEETING AND PLEDGED TO SEEK STATE FUNDING FOR BROADBAND EXPANSION IN PIKE, UPSON, AND LAMAR COUNTIES--CALLING IT A VITAL SERVICE FOR CITIZENS.
Thursday, October 14, 2021
Commodores Entertain Seniors At State Fair
Photos by Rico Andrews
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Upson Courthouse Clock Tower Delayed Again
UPSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS GOT BAD NEWS AT TUESDAY'S MEETING.
THE COURTHOUSE CLOCK TOWER CONSTRUCTION IN KENTUCKY HAS BEEN DELAYED.
DELIVERY NOW EXPECTED IN JANUARY 2022. CHAIRMAN NORMAN ALLEN SAID THE BOARD WILL REVIEW THE CONTRACT TO SEE IF SANCTIONS ARE POSSIBLE.
Monday, October 11, 2021
Senior Citizens Visit Pumpkin Fest
A group of senior citizens from Upson County visited the Pumpkin Fest at Callaway Gardens Monday.
Spalding County Office Of Homeland Security/EMA
Spalding County has partnered with Civic Ready for many years to provide its mass notification solution. The Civic Ready solution allows Spalding County to issue urgent notifications, emergency instructions, warnings, and routine communications to subscribed citizens via email, text message, and voicemail alert, to keep citizens safe and informed, along with automated alerts from the National Weather Service.
In the event of a local emergency, citizens subscribed to Civic Ready will benefit from immediate, actionable information and instructions sent via their preferred notification channel. To be able to provide the best system possible, Civic Ready is updating the dashboard for the system called ALERT SENSE, which will look different but offer the same emergency information that you have chosen to receive.
Our new system will launch live on October 20, 2021. For those already registered for the system, there should not be any interruption from this upgrade, however the graphics will look different.
For those not yet signed up, the registration can be completed by:
1. AlertSense myAlerts Mobile App (available through your respective App Store)
2. Web-based Public Opt-in through www.spalding-georgia.myfreealerts.com
3. Text SMS (text zip code to 38276) With Spalding County having Civic Ready as part of our emergency notification resources, our community has additional opportunities that will enhance the preparation measures. Emergency notifications allow for our citizens the time needed to enact their emergency plan for their family.
For more information, visit the Spalding County web page at spaldingcounty.com or contact the Spalding County Office of Homeland Security /Emergency Management at 770-228-2129.
DOMINO'S DRIVER ROBBED AT GUNPOINT
THOMASTON POLICE LOOKING FOR TWO BLACK MALES IN CONNECTION WITH THE ARMED ROBBERY OF A DOMINO'S PIZZA DELIVERY FEMALE, OCT. 3RD AT 420 4TH AVE.
THE DELIVERY DRIVER TOLD OFFICERS NO ONE ANSWERED THE DOOR AND HER BOSS TOLD HER TO LEAVE A NOTE AND LEAVE.
SITTING IN HER CAR WITH THE DOOR OPEN, A BLACK MALE APPROACHED HER , PUT A PISTOL TO THE BACK OF HER HEAD AND GRABBED $100 FROM HER HAND AND HER I-PHONE AND REACHED IN AND GRABBED $300 IN CASH FROM THE CONSOLE.
ANOTHER BLACK MALE OPENED THE PASSENGER DOOR AND STOLE THE PIZZA AND A 2 LITER BOTTLE OF LEMONAIDE. THE TWO FLED THE SCENE AND POLICE FOUND A $20 BILL IN THE ROAD AND $14 IN CASH IN THE STREET AT 208 C. STREET. HER I-PHONE WAS LOCATED IN THE BACK ALLEY AT 308 4TH AVE.
THE REPORT SAID ONE OF THE ROBBERS SEEMED TO BE WEARING A DARK WIG.
THE DELIVERY DRIVER TOLD OFFICERS NO ONE ANSWERED THE DOOR AND HER BOSS TOLD HER TO LEAVE A NOTE AND LEAVE.
SITTING IN HER CAR WITH THE DOOR OPEN, A BLACK MALE APPROACHED HER , PUT A PISTOL TO THE BACK OF HER HEAD AND GRABBED $100 FROM HER HAND AND HER I-PHONE AND REACHED IN AND GRABBED $300 IN CASH FROM THE CONSOLE.
ANOTHER BLACK MALE OPENED THE PASSENGER DOOR AND STOLE THE PIZZA AND A 2 LITER BOTTLE OF LEMONAIDE. THE TWO FLED THE SCENE AND POLICE FOUND A $20 BILL IN THE ROAD AND $14 IN CASH IN THE STREET AT 208 C. STREET. HER I-PHONE WAS LOCATED IN THE BACK ALLEY AT 308 4TH AVE.
THE REPORT SAID ONE OF THE ROBBERS SEEMED TO BE WEARING A DARK WIG.
Friday, October 8, 2021
Grand Opening Of Lakeside Park
The park is located off of County Road, the lake is not open for fishing at this time.
SPALDING SO ARRESTS MOTORCYCLE GANG MEMBERS IN WASHINGTON STATE
On May 1, 2021, at approximately 11:30 pm, Spalding County Deputies responded to 1557 Williamson Road (Big Jim’s Wing Shack) in reference to a fight. When they arrived, they found an adult male who had been severely beaten. After the victim was transported for medical care, deputies and investigators began interviewing patrons who witnessed the assault.
According to Sheriff Darrell Dix, “According to witnesses, several members of the 1% Pagans Outlaw motorcycle gang entered the business as the victim and his friend were singing karaoke. One of the Pagan Outlaws started a fight with the victim and when it was over the victim was left severely beaten, suffering a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain.
The suspects then ran before the responding deputies arrived.” Spalding County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigators and CAGE Investigators poured over statements from witnesses and other evidence to identify those responsible for the crime. Unfortunately, the trail grew cold, and no positive identification on the suspects. Throughout the following weeks and months investigators continued working the case and followed up on leads as they came in. “Both Criminal Investigators and CAGE Investigators believed that the suspects were not identified because they were not from this area.
The Pagan Motorcycle Gang has members spread across the United States and that slowed the identification of the suspects. The area involved in the investigation was spreading so we partnered with agents from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms. We exchanged information about the Pagans and photographs of known members in our effort to identify the perpetrators. With the help of the GBI and ATF, as well as additional witness interviews, a positive identification was made of the Pagans responsible for the beating.”
Investigators identified them as Dustin Wendelin 40, of 131 SE 3rd Ave. Milton-Freewater, Oregon, and Charles Montgomery 29, of 84283 Highway 339 Milton-Freewater, Oregon, both of whom are active Pagans.
Investigators also learned that Wendelin, who was serving as the chapter president of the Pagan’s Motorcycle gang’s territories in Washington State and Oregon, has been employed as a Correctional Officer at the Washington State Penitentiary facility since 2011.
On October 6, 2021, investigators with the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office flew to Washington State and arrested Wendelin, who had been in custody September 9, 2021, in Walla-Walla, and Montgomery who had been in custody in Oregon. Both are also facing charges stemming from an extensive investigation relating to crimes committed by the Pagans Outlaw Motorcycle gang by authorities in Washington State and Oregon.
“Due to the severity of the charges, criminal street gang affiliation, and high potential for violence during the transport, I sent members of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team, Special Operations/CAGE Investigators, along with Transport Team Deputies to bring them back from Washington State and Oregon. They were also accompanied on their flights by agents with the Federal Air Marshal Service.”
Wendelin and Montgomery have been charged with aggravated assault, aggravated battery, and 3 counts each of Violation of the Georgia Criminal Street Gang Act. Other warrants may be obtained for additional charges as the investigation continues. Both are currently being held in the Spalding County Jail without bond.
The arrest of these individuals and their transport back to Spalding County was the culmination of a joint effort by Spalding County investigators and the other agencies involved, including the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jones County Georgia Sheriff’s Office, Walla Walla County Washington Sheriff’s Office, Milton-Freewater Oregon Police Department, Umatilla County Oregon Sheriff’s Office, Seattle Washington Port Police, and the Federal Air Marshal Service. We are proud of the working relationships we have forged with other agencies whether they need our help and resources, or we need theirs. These arrests were the result of those strong relationships.
Wendelin and Montgomery thought they wouldn’t be tracked across the United States. They felt confident that they were safe at home in Washington and Oregon, they were as far away from Spalding County as they needed to be, and I guess they thought wrong. A great idea for them would be to not come here and do dumb stuff in the first place. Don’t do dumb stuff and hurt people and you won’t have to worry about where to hide or getting caught. To us it doesn’t matter what gang they are affiliated with whether its crips, bloods, ghost face gangsters, pagans, the klan, offshoots of these, or others; they are all the same. They victimize and terrorize innocent people, and they destroy families and communities. We are going to continue our commitment to support crime victims no matter what they look like, who they are, or where they live.
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Homecoming Parade
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Plea Deal In Upson Murder Case
A GUILTY PLEA IN A THOMASTON MURDER CASE THURSDAY IN UPSON SUPERIOR COURT.
COREY THOMAS SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS, 15 TO SERVE IN PRISON BY CHIEF JUDGE FLETCHER SAMS FOR THE SHOOTING DEATH OF JOSEPH HOMMEN DURING A COOK-OUT ON 6TH STREET IN SILVERTOWN.
ACCORDING TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT, THOMAS IN HIS 20'S, SHOT AND KILLED HOMMEN AGE 27 AND ALSO WOUNDED A FEMALE AT THE OUTING WHEN A DISPUTE ERUPTED.
ACCORDING TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT, THOMAS IN HIS 20'S, SHOT AND KILLED HOMMEN AGE 27 AND ALSO WOUNDED A FEMALE AT THE OUTING WHEN A DISPUTE ERUPTED.
WITH THE PLEA AGREEMENT THOMAS HAD HIS MALICE MURDER CHARGE REDUCED TO VOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER, PLUS A $3000 FINE AND BANISHMENT FROM THE GRIFFIN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT WHEN HIS SENTENCE IS COMPLETED.
GUILTY PLEA IN UPSON CO MURDER
Pleas – Judge W. Fletcher Sams
October 7 , 2021
1. 21R0165 Tyshemia Jones Ct. 1: Giving false name, address, birth
Date to officer: 180 days to serve to run
Concurrent to VOP
Ct. 2: Obstruction of Officer: 180 days
To serve to run concurrent to VOP
And Count 1.
2. 20R0312
Corey Thomas
Ct. 1: Malice Murder reduced to Voluntary Manslaughter: 20 years, serve the first 15 years in the state prison, followed by the remainder on probation; $3,000 fine; banishment from the Griffin Judicial Circuit
Ct. 2: Felony Murder: Nolle Prosequi
Ct. 3: Aggravated Assault: Nolle Prosequi
Ct. 4: Aggravated Assault: Nolle Prosequi
Ct. 5: Aggravated Assault: 5 years probation consecutive to count 1
Ct. 6: Poss of Firearm/knife during crime/attempt crime: 5 years probation consecutive to counts 1 & 5
Ct. 7: Aggravated Assault: Nolle Prosequi
Ct. 8: Poss of firearm/knife during crime/attempt crime: Nolle Prosequi
3. 20R0166 Randy Morgan Ct. 1: Simple Battery: 12 months
Probation; $500 fine; 40 hours
Community service
Wreck Downtown
The two vehicle accident occured at the intersection of North Church Street and West Main Street.
Post 26, Georgia State Patrol is investigating.
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
Road Closures
Heavy rain on Tuesday and Wednesday has flooded two roads in Upson County.
Pleasant Grove Road near Sandy Harvey Road will be closed indefinitely due to a washed out culvert.
Allen Road near the playground is underwater and will not open until the culvert and road bed is inspected.
Pleasant Grove Road near Sandy Harvey Road will be closed indefinitely due to a washed out culvert.
Allen Road near the playground is underwater and will not open until the culvert and road bed is inspected.
US 80 near the Crawford County line was closed for a while due to water over the road.
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
THOMASTON CITY COUNCIL REJECTS RECOMMENDATION OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE
AT TUESDAY'S MEETING--THE THOMASTON CITY COUNCIL VOTED NOT TO ACCEPT A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE TO MOVE CITY HALL OUT OF THE GOVERNMENT COMPLEX BUILDING BECAUSE OF CONFEDERATE IMAGERY.
COUNCIL MEMBERS CALLED FOR A BROADER DISCUSSION OF THE ISSUE. MAYOR J.D. STALLINGS READ A STATEMENT CALLING FOR THE COMMUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE TO BE DISBANDED--BUT NO ACTION WAS TAKEN.
MR. AND MISS UPSON-LEE ANNOUNCED
- Upson-Lee High School has announced Mr. and Miss Upson-Lee and Senior Favorites for the Class of 2022. Congratulations to Mr. Upson-Lee, Niterrian Walker, and to Miss Upson-Lee, Tyrah Alsobrooks. Congratulations also to the Class of 2022 Senior Favorites: Chelsi Acey, Noelle Delli-Gatti, Carlie Murphy, Skyelar Perdue, Abigail Pettis, Kenley Pitts, Nancy Reyes, A'niaya Smith, Bra'Jon Smith, Hannah Van Houten, Cairi Andrews, Ethan Davis, Colton Day, Rashad Ellerbee, Noah Fry, Luke Hawkins, Fisher McDaniel, Branquavis Parks, Chadwick Richardson, Highland Roberts, and Jacob Stewart. Students are selected for these honors by their peers.
- Congratulations to the Class of 2022 Senior Homecoming Court: Chelsi Acey, Tyrah Alsobrooks, Peyton Chapman, Noelle Delli-Gatti, Carlie Murphy, Abigail Pettis, Nancy Reyes, Keresten Sherry, Aniaya Smith, Bra’Jon Smith, Alexis Stinson, and Kee-Kee Williams.
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POLITICAL FORUM POSTPONED
FUN 101 FM HAS POSTPONED THE POLTICAL FORUM FEATURING CANDIDATES FOR CITY OF THOMASTON MAYOR PRO TEM AS WE WORK AROUND THE ATLANTA BRAVES PLAY-OFF SCHEDULE. WE WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN WE SET THE DATE AND TIME .
COVID-19 UPDATE FROM UPSON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER TUESDAY UPSON CONFERENCE CALL
Jeff Tarrant, CEO of URMC gave the following update:
COVID numbers continue to improve at URMC
We have 18 Covid positive patients, 17 of which are non-vaccinated
We have 6 on Vents and 9 Covid patients are in ICU
Testing numbers also continue to decline showing -75 were tested and only about 10% were positive.
Pfizer vaccine is being given on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday-Appointment times are requested but walk-ins are welcome
The Health Department is also giving the Vaccine and walk-ins are welcome
Monday, October 4, 2021
COVID-19 UPSON UPDATE
While August saw record numbers of cases and hospitalizations, September took its toll in COVID deaths. Georgia’s death toll was the highest it’s been since the beginning of the pandemic and middle Georgia counties followed suit. Upson, combined with its surrounding counties, logged a total of 78 deaths in September, jumping from the previous record of 58 set in January. Deaths had just been at an all-time low in June for the state of Georgia, and in July for the middle Georgia counties.
Upson County alone tallied 12 deaths in September, the highest since 14 in January. The most deaths for Upson occurred in April 2020, when 18 people died of COVID following outbreaks in two local nursing homes.
Upson’s average 2-week test positivity hit a new high of 23% in September, while cases and hospitalizations showed a moderate decline. From the record high of 473 confirmed cases in August, Upson’s cases were down to 324 in September. Hospitalizations declined from the record high of 28 in August down to 15 in September. Upson’s vaccination rate is up from 29% in August to 34% in September. 34% is the highest rate among the area counties, but still short of the state’s 45%.
Upson’s average 2-week test positivity hit a new high of 23% in September, while cases and hospitalizations showed a moderate decline. From the record high of 473 confirmed cases in August, Upson’s cases were down to 324 in September. Hospitalizations declined from the record high of 28 in August down to 15 in September. Upson’s vaccination rate is up from 29% in August to 34% in September. 34% is the highest rate among the area counties, but still short of the state’s 45%.
UPSON COUNTY | New Cases | New Deaths | New Hospitaliz. | Avg 2-wk | % Total Pop. Fully Vax |
Mar 2020 | 5 | 0 |
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Apr 2020 | 211 | 18 (hi) |
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May 2020 | 65 | 16 |
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June 2020 | 74 | 9 | 1 (lo) |
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July 2020 | 116 | 2 | 9 |
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Aug 2020 | 190 | 10 | 14 |
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Sept 2020 | 138 | 7 | 14 |
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Oct 2020 | 45 | 9 | 17 | 5.4% |
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Nov 2020 | 98 | 0 (lo) | 7 | 8.4% |
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Dec 2020 | 246 | 1 | 12 | 13.7% |
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Jan 2021 | 405 | 14 | 24 | 21% |
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Feb 2021 | 112 | 10 | 22 | 10.8% |
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Mar 2021 | 60 | 7 | 7 | 6.7% |
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Apr 2021 | 45 | 4 | 7 | 5.3% | 19% |
May 2021 | 26 | 4 | 2 | 3.8% | 24% |
June 2021 | 6 (lo) | 1 | 6 | 1.8% (lo) | 26% |
July 2021 | 37 | 0 (lo) | 6 | 2.2% | 28% |
Aug 2021 | 473 (hi) | 1 | 28 (hi) | 19.1% | 29% |
Sept 2021 | 324 | 12 | 15 | 23.3%(hi) | 34% |
Sources: GA Dept of Public Health Daily Reports, and CDC Data Tracker | |||||
8-County Area | New Cases | New Deaths |
Jan 2021 | 2,063 | 58 |
Feb 2021 | 726 | 53 |
Mar 2021 | 296 | 44 |
Apr 2021 | 243 | 16 |
May 2021 | 171 | 11 |
June 2021 | 77 (lo) | 9 |
July 2021 | 310 | 8 (lo) |
Aug 2021 | 2,409 (hi) | 21 |
Sept 2021 | 1,654 | 78 (hi) |
8-County Area = Upson, Pike, Lamar, Monroe, Crawford, Taylor, Talbot, and Meriwether | ||
Source: Daily Reports from GA Dept of Public Health | ||