AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE IN THOMASTON WED.

 G-DOT  BLOOD  DRIVE   IN  THOMASTON  6/1/22  10AM-3PM  AT  DOT  HEADQUARTERS  IN  NORTHSIDE.

The Goat Man Documentary Showing In Zebulon

The J. Joel Edwards Public Library in Zebulon, will be showing the documentary Goat Man, the Life & Times of Ches McCartney, this Thursday, June 2, at 5:30. 

(from the DVD cover): “This movie is the most complete, most factual, and the only movie that has ever been authorized by Mr. Ches McCartney, The Goat Man. “Over three years and thousands of miles went into the making of this story of one of America’s last folk heroes. From his home in Iowa, where he was thought of as an embarrassment, to his final home that was in a Macon Nursing home, where he had come to be known as one of the great legends of the open road, Ches McCartney, the Goat Man, lived his life as many of us secretly wish . . . his way.” 

The documentary was filmed in 2000 in Molena by Jimmy Hammett of JCH Entertainment. 

In July the library will show Part 2 of this series: Goat Man 2: More Stories of the American Folklore Legend. These viewings are free and open to the public. For more information on this and other library events, contact the J. Joel Edwards Public Library at 770-567-2014.

Update: Grad Party Shooting

THOMASTON POLICE CHIEF MIKE RICHARDSON SAYS THE INVESTIGATION INTO A FATAL SHOOTING EARLY SATURDAY AT A GRADUATION PARTY AT THE PARK LANE MAIN EVENT VENUE REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION. 

AT LAST REPORT NO ARRESTS HAVE BEEN MADE INVOLVING THE THREE VICTIMS, INCLUDING A RECENT MANCHESTER GRADUATE AND FOOTBALL PLAYER, 18 YEAR OLD AKEEM ELLISON WHO WAS FOUND INSIDE THE BUILDING WITH NO PULSE.

ACCORDING TO THE P.D. INCIDENT REPORT, ELLISON HAD 3 TO 5 GUNSHOT WOUNDS TO THE BACK AND ONE WOUND TO THE UPPER CHEST. NEAR-BY, ANOTHER MANCHESTER TEEN, ELIJUAN WRIGHT, AGE 17 HAD A GUNSHOT WOUND TO THE LEFT HIP AND CHIEF RICHARDSON SAID WRIGHT WAS AIR FLIGHTED OUT OF TOWN FOR TREATMENT. OUTSIDE THE BUILDING A THOMASTON JUVENILE, RODRICK THOMAS HAD A GUNSHOT WOUND AND WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE E.R

WITNESSES TOLD POLICE THE SHOOTING APPARENTLY WAS THE RESULT OF AN ARGUMENT OVER A FEMALE, A FIGHT BROKE OUT, GUNSHOTS RANG OUT AND THE CROWD SCATTERED.

AROUND 200 ATTENDED THE PARTY, MOSTLY JUVENILES AND WHEN POLICE ARRIVED NUMEROUS VEHICLES WERE LEAVING THE SCENE AND OVER A 100 PEOPLE WERE IN THE YARD.

ANYONE WITH INFORMATION ABOUT THE SHOOTING SHOULD CONTACT POLICE CAPTAIN MONICE SNIPES AT 706-741-1899.

One Killed In Grad Party Shooting

Saturday night at approximately 12:52a.m. officers were dispatched to 205 Park Lane “Main Event” in reference to three male subjects that had been wounded by gunfire. 

One of the victims identified as Akeem Ellison age 18 of Manchester, was pronounced deceased at Upson Regional Medical Center. The second victim identified as Elijuan Wright age 17 of Manchester, was airlifted to an undisclosed location for treatment. The third victim identified as a 15 year old juvenile from Thomaston was also treated at an undisclosed location for his injuries. 

The shooting occurred at a graduation party where at least 200 people were in attendance of which many were juveniles. Apparently some type of altercation took place inside the event center and the gunfire started.

The Thomaston Police Department Criminal Investigations Division is actively investigating this case. Anyone with information related to the shooting or the event please contact Captain Monica Snipes at 706-741-1899 or by email at msnipescityofthomaston.com.

Missing Person

Monroe County Deputies located an abandoned vehicle on Hwy. 341 near Billy Harris Road. 

The vehicle was last occupied by Edward Knight. Mr. Knight is a missing person out of Gwinnett County and has medical problems including Dementia. 

He was last seen wearing a green long sleeve button down shirt, with black or blue sweatpants and blue tennis shoes. 

If you have seen him, given him a ride or know of his whereabouts, please contact the Monroe County Sheriff's Office at 487-994-7010 or call 911.

TWO GANG KINGPINS FOUND GUILTY IN UPSON CO

 May 26, 2022, an Upson County jury convicted Andre Denard Noble, a 37-year-old male from Griffin, and Myrrin Kendrell Watson, a 43-year-old man from Griffin, for violation of two counts of Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act (RICO). Assistant District Attorney, Ashton Fallin, along with Assistant District Attorney, Audrey Holliday, tried the case for the State. The Honorable Ben Miller, Jr. sentenced each defendant to 40 years in prison. Both defendants had lengthy criminal histories.

Myrrin Kendrell Watson

Andre Denard Noble

Both defendants were found to be leaders of the Rollin 20s Neighborhood Bloods Zoo Krew. They were found guilty of participating in a conspiracy to further the gang’s interests through criminal activity involving themselves and other co-conspirators. Those criminal activities include armed robbery, aggravated assault, drug trafficking, delivering contraband to inmates within the Georgia Department of Corrections, obtaining and selling contraband within the Georgia Department of Corrections, and Small Business Administration loan fraud. 

They were also found to further the gang’s interest by posting gang activity on social media and sending people into Upson County to commit crimes and recruit new members.

District Attorney Broder said, “I am so proud of my team, and this jury. This verdict sends a strong message that gang activity will not be tolerated in Upson County or in the Griffin Judicial Circuit. This jury

and this sentence sends a message to other gang leaders seeking to recruit and commit crimes here…stay out of Upson

UPSON CO ON BOARD WITH LOST RENEGOTIATION

 THE  UPSON   COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  APPROVED  A   RESOLUTION  ON  RENEGOTIATION  OF   THE  LOCAL  OPTION  SALES  TAX   WITH  CITY  OF  THOMASTON -- THEY  PASSED  ON LAST  MEETING. EACH  GOVERNMENT  WILL  PROVIDE   A  SMALL  TEAM  FOR  THE  EFFORT AND  THE  TWO  MANAGERS  WILL  DECIDE  ON  A  MEDIATOR  IF  ISSUES  CANNOT  BE  RESOLVED.

IPG Incorporated presented their concept and design plan for the Upson County Judicial Center

Representatives from IPG shared details about how they drew inspiration from the historic buildings in Upson County and created design options that pull distinct elements from these buildings, resulting in unique options that were specifically designed for the citizens of Upson County.  Some of the aspects that IPG incorporated into the design concepts for the new building include the symmetry of the Martha Mill building, the masonry work, emphasis of entry , and light-colored brick of the Upson County Courthouse, and the elegance, material variety, and shifting planes of Hotel Upson. 

Based on feedback from the board of commissioners and county staff, IPG focused on providing a concept with wide public spaces, clean and simple design, and an abundance of natural light.  The space will promote flexibility, with large, shared spaces that are multifunctional.  IPG noted that they feel the design of the building will honor Upson County’s past, while also allowing for future growth.  IPG described their concept as “historically rooted but forward looking.”

The board of commissioners unanimously approved IPG’s concept and design plan so that the process can continue moving forward.  The commissioners are hopeful that the project can be completed in time to celebrate Upson County’s Bicentennial in 2024.

D.A. MARIE BRODER ANNOUNCES A CONVICTION

 On May 20, 2022, after a week-long trial, a Fayette County jury found Brittany Shyanne Barber, a 27-year-old female from Newnan, Georgia, guilty of child molestation. The Honorable W. Fletcher Sams sentenced the Defendant to a total of 20 years, with 18 years to serve in prison followed by 2 years of probation. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Warren Sellers.

Barber was convicted of having sexual intercourse with a minor victim. The victim did testify at trial. The evidence at trial showed that the Defendant lived with the victim’s father who allowed Barber to function as the child’s step mother while he was away at work. The Defendant took advantage of this trust to begin and continue an inappropriate relationship with the child. When the victim tried to avoid her, the Defendant would make sure to cause his father to unjustifiably discipline the child.

Chief ADA Sellers said of the trial, “the courage of the victim in reliving the painful details of the abuse through his testimony and the skillful investigative work of Det. Stephen Stoyell of the Peachtree City Police Department resulted in the successful prosecution of the case.”

At sentencing, Judge Sams noted that the Defendant’s actions had damaged the victim to such an extent that it would likely take years of

counseling to unravel the resulting internal conflict.

District Attorney Broder said of the conviction, “I’m proud of my team who fought so hard to ensure that this defendant will never harm another child. My office will never tolerate these crimes and will continue to fight hard to protect the children of this Circuit.”

INCUMBENT TOTALS UPSON AND PIKE

 INCUMBENT  TOTALS  IN  UPSON  COUNTY  FOR  TUESDAY'S  PRIMARY,  UPSON  COUNTY  COMMISSION  DISTRICT  3  PAUL  JONES  840, BILL  MAHER  473.  BOARD OF  EDUCATION  STEVE  SADLER 511  AL  HINSON  JR. 363,  BRIAN  SALTER 362,  KEITH  ROHLING  213. UPSON  COUNTY  TURNOUT  WAS   23%. 

BETH  CAMP  REELECTED  TO  THE  STATE  HOUSE  WITH  80%  OF  THE  VOTE,  8366,  DAN  BREU  20%, 2135.

STATE  SENATOR  JOHN  KENNEDY  WON  THE  GOP  NOMINATION.  HIS  OPPONENT DIANE  VANN  WAS  DISQUALIFIED  BECAUSE  SHE  NO  LONGER  LIVES  IN  DISTRICT 18.

CONTINUATION  OF  THE  SPLOST  PASSED  IN  PIKE  COUNTY    2871-2111. BRIAN  HUBBARD  STAYS  ON  THE  SCHOOL  BOARD  IN  PIKE  532-318  OVER  MICHAEL  PIERCE.  PIKE'S  TURN  OUT  36%.

ALL INCUMBENTS WIN IN UPSON CO

 ALL  INCUMBENTS  WON  IN  UPSON  COUNTY  IN  TUESDAY'S  PRIMARY,  COUNTY  COMMISSIONER  PAUL  JONES  AND  BOARD  OF  EDUCATION  MEMBERS  STEVE  SADLER  AND  BRIAN  SALTER.

BETH  CAMP  WAS  POLLING  85%  IN  UPSON,  LAMAR,  AND  PIKE  COUNTIES  WITH  RETURNS  INCOMPLETE  IN  PIKE  AND  LAMAR  IN  THE  DISTRICT   135  STATE  HOUSE  RACE.

DA BRODER ANNOUNCES MURDER CONVICTION

 From Marie Broder, District Attorney On Monday, May 24, 2022, a Spalding County jury convicted Donald Eugene Colquitt, a 57-year-old male from Griffin, of Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, and Theft by Taking. I along with my Assistant District Attorney Holly MacDonald tried the case. The Honorable Scott L. Ballard sentenced the defendant to Life in Prison Without the Possibility of Parole on the Murder charge, 20 years for the Armed Robbery, and 5 years for the gun charge. Donald Colquitt shot Munteshia Brown in the chest in the parking lot of Macedonia Baptist Church on July 11, 2020. After shooting her, he stole her car, phone, purse, and identification and fled the scene. He was caught in Mississippi. Colquitt and Brown had a lengthy history of domestic violence, including a particularly brutal incident in September of 2019 when Colquitt stabbed Brown in a Henry County hotel room, placed a mattress over her, and left her to die. In that incident, he also stole her car, her purse, her phone, and her identification. She lived, only to be killed by him in Spalding County seven months later. The defendant testified and claimed that he shot the victim in self-defense. The jury rejected this argument with its verdict. The jury heard testimony over the course of five days. My team brought in witnesses from five different law enforcement departments across three states to testify in this trial. My heartfelt thanks go out to all of the witnesses who testified, and I offer my specific thanks to the lead agency in the case – the Spalding County Sheriff's Office. This case is tragic. Munteshia was on a path to redemption, changing her life, and severing ties with the defendant. She was a bright life who was so loved by her family. Because of her devotion to changing her life for the better, the defendant executed her in a church parking lot. Over the course of my career, I have tried too many cases where victims were murdered at hand of their abusers.I take these cases personally. I am tired of these violent deaths, and so are the citizens of Spalding County. Allow this verdict and sentence to be a message to those perpetrating domestic violence in my Circuit. I will use whatever resources necessary to ensure that you pay for your crimes. If you or someone you know is suffering in a domestic violence relationship, please seek help. It could literally save a life.

G-DOT UPDATE ON 19 NORTH WIDENING

GDOT contractors, CW Matthews will be shifting the traffic to the outside lanes on SR 3 mainline on Sunday, June 6th, 2022 in order to switch to the next stage of the plans which includes constructing the concrete median. This will take place at 7 pm Sunday night and go until 7 am Monday morning June 6, 2022. Message boards have been placed warning about the new traffic pattern.

This project widens the 4-lanes of US 19 to make them 12'. It also proposes to add a raised median. The project begins at the intersection of US 19 and County Road and ends at the intersection of US 19 and Atwater Road, approximately 2 miles north of Thomaston. Also, as part of this project, Delray road will be realigned to intersect with US 19 and Jimmerson Road. 

A signal will be added at this location.

GSP CHASE IN THOMASTON SUNDAY

 THOMASTON  POLICE  CHIEF MIKE  RICHARDSON  CREDITING  HIS  OFFICERS  FOR  DEFLECTING  A  CHASE  FROM  THE  DOWNTOWN  SQUARE  SUNDAY  EVENING  DURING  THE  HGTV  WATCH PARTY,  A  CHASE  THAT  ENDED  IN  A  CRASH  AND  TWO  INJURIES.   THE  GSP  WAS  CHASING  A  DODGE  RAM  PICK-UP    SPEEDING  UP    WEST  MAIN  DRIVEN  BY  18  YEAR  OLD AMON  CARMONA  OF  101  AVE.  E.   COPS  SET  UP  A  ROAD BLOCK  AT  THE  ACE  CLEANERS  INTERSECTION  AND  THE  CHASE  PROCEEDED  OUT  SOUTH  GREEN.

 ACCORDING  TO  TROOPER  CLAYTON  JONES  , AT  THE  OLD TALBOTTON  ROAD  INTERSECTION   CARMONA, LOST  IT,   SIDE-SWIPED  A  MUSTANG  DRIVEN  BY  JACKSON  O'NEAL  BUCHANAN  OF  SOUTH  GREEN, HIT  SHURBS  AND A  FLAG  POLE  AT  803 SOUTH  GREEN,   AND  SHRUBS  AT  813  SOUTH  GREEN,  FLIPPED  AND  CAME  TO  REST  IN  THE  BACK  YARD  OF  THE  BENNETT  RESIDENCE.

CARMONA  WAS  TRANSPORTED  TO  THE  E.R.  BY  EMS  WITH  COMPLAINT  OF   INJURIES--THE  OTHER  DRIVER  WAS  NOT   TRANSPORTED.

CARMONA  POSTED  BOND  OF  $11,670  AND  WAS  RELEASED  FROM  THE  UPSON  COUNTY  JAIL   FOR  CHARGES  INCLUDING  DUI,  ATTEMPTING TO  ELUDE,  HABITUAL  VIOLATOR,  SPEEDING,  RECKLESS  DRIVING  AND  SEVERAL  MORE  CITATIONS. 

PIKE COUNY PIRATES ARE STATE CHAMPS AGAIN

 THE  PIKE  COUNTY  PIRATES  WON  THE  STATE  BASEBALL   CHAMPIONSHIP  5-4  OVER  REDAN  OF  STONE  MOUNTAIN,  TUESDAY  AT  GWINNETT  COUNTY'S   COOL  RAY  FIELD    IN  BUFORD. TUNE  IN  FUN  101  FM  FOR  MORE  DETAILS  AND  WE  WILL  AIR  A  REPLAY  OF  THE  GAME   IN  THE  NEAR  FUTURE,

THE  PIRATES  ALSO  WON  THE  STATE  TITLE  IN  2019.

THOMASTON SHINES IN THE NATIONAL MEDIA

 THOMASTON  AND  UPSON  COUNTY  HAD  A  BIG  PAST   WEEK  IN  THE  NATIONAL  MEDIA  SPOTLIGHT.  LAST  THURSDAY,    GOVERNOR  BRIAN KEMP  BROUGHT  HIS  REELECTION  CAMPAIGN  TO  TOWN,  PHOTO  IN  THE  WALL  STREET  JOURNAL,  PLUS  SEVERAL  WHO  ATTENDED  THE  GOV'S  VISIT  WERE  QUOTED  IN  THE  NEW  YORK  TIMES.

SATURDAY,  TV  STAR  STEVE  HARVEY AND  HIS  WIFE  HELD  A  TOWN  HALL  TO  ANNOUNCE  THEY  HAVE  PURCHASED  THE  ROCK  RANCH,  AND  THEN  SUNDAY  HGTV  AIRED  A  PROGRAM  SHOWCASING   RE-DOS  IN  THE  COMMUNITY    AND  THE  CELEB'S  WHO   DID  THE   SHOW. BRIAN  AND  MIKA  KLEINSCHMIDT  RETURNED  TO  THOMASTON  TO  VIEW  THE SHOW  WITH  A  CROWD  AT   THE  RITZ  THEATRE.  AFTER  THE  SHOW   BRIAN  TOLD   101   NEWS  HE  CONSIDERS  HIMSELF  A  THOMASTONIAN,  NOW.

Thomaston Featured on HGTV's Hometown "KickStart"

D.A. MARIE BRODER REPORTS

 Back in the Saddle

Over the past few months, you’ve heard me sing the praises of the assistant district attorneys, victim advocates, investigators, and law enforcement officers who have successfully tried cases across the circuit. Watching other people try cases is somewhat foreign to me. As an ADA and Chief ADA, I have tried nearly every major case in our circuit. With the assistance of then DA Scott Ballard, I once tried a number of serious cases in one year in Spalding County alone. I was not a General, guiding the troops, but a foot soldier in the trenches trying several cases a year.

As the appointed and now elected District Attorney, my role has necessarily changed. I can no longer try every case in the Circuit. I rely on the excellent team I have put in place to present cases the way that I would. Even then, I have counseled my staff on their cases, made suggestions, and observed as much of the proceedings across four counties as I can. I have commiserated with many ADAs as we have sat nervously waiting on a jury to render their verdict. Any real trial lawyer will tell you that waiting on a verdict is like getting a root canal without anesthesia while you have the flu. It is miserable, but a necessary part of our job

But this past week, I put on my best suit and have been trying my first jury trial in nearly two years. While I know what to do, and how to do it, I would be lying if I didn’t admit that it was nerve-wracking. Yet, like riding a bicycle, you might be nervous to get going, but once you start you can rely on your experience to push those pedals and move on down the road.

As I write this article, our trial is still going. I do not know what a jury will do and I tell the same thing to the victims who look to me for justice. But there are cases where I would rather have twelve people tell me someone is not guilty, than give someone a plea deal where they do not have to accept full responsibility for the evil they have done. With that in mind, being your elected District Attorney has not stopped me from being my true self: a trial attorney who seeks justice for victims.

I am a reluctant politician. I didn’t go to law school to get a title. I went to law school, in part, because my family were victims of a horrific crime and they had a poor experience with the justice system. To do the work I want to do, I need the votes and support of this community, but, at heart, I live for standing in front of a jury to prove my case and dare twelve people to let a wrongdoer escape from what they’ve done. I may be all of five-two and a woman, but don’t get in my way as I take up my sword and dive into the fray to hold people accountable for the wrongs they do.

I am back in the saddle and, while I don’t know what a jury will do in any given case, you can be sure that no one in this circuit will have unlawfully died at the hands of someone else without every inch of my soul fighting to see justice done. Until next time, be kind to one another. For my part, I’ll be in a foxhole wearing a suit, my hair up, armed with the truth, and taking care of business to protect each and everyone one of you.

TUESDAY, MAY 24 PRIMARY ELECTION DAY IN GA.

 TUESDAY   MAY  24TH  PRIMARY   ELECTION  DAY  IN  GEORGIA  WITH  POLLS  OPEN  7AM  TILL  7PM.  THE  BIG  RACE  IN  THE  STATE  HAS  GOVERNOR  BRIAN KEMP  WITH  A   30  POINT  LEAD  OVER  EX-SENATOR  DAVID  PERDUE.  STATE  REPRESENTATIVE    BETH  CAMP  SERVING  UPSON,  PIKE,  AND  LAMAR    IS  CHALLENGED  BY  RETIRED  ARMY  COLONEL  DAN  BRUE . 

UPSON  COUNTY  COMMISSIONER  PAUL  JONES  OPPOSED  BY  BILL MAHER  AND  IN  T-U  SCHOOL  BOARD  RACES  INCUMBENT  STEVE  SADLER  OPPOSED  BY  AL HINSON  AND  INCUMBENT  BRIAN  SALTER CHALLENGED  BY  FORMER  BOARD  MEMBER  KEITH  ROHLING.

FUN  101 FM  WILL  HAVE  ELECTION  RETURNS  AFTER  THE  POLLS  CLOSE  AND  GNN  WILL  REPORT  ON  STATE WIDE  RACES.

BVILLE P.D. ARMED ROBBERY SUSPECT ARRESTED

 BARNESVILLE  POLICE  CHIEF  CRAIG  COOPER  SAYS  A  MOLENA  MAN,  AUSTIN  DAUGHTERY,  AGE  21 HAS  BEEN  ARRESTED  FOR  AN  ARMED  ROBBERY  ON  HARRIS  DRIVE,  DURING  THE  WEEKEND.  DAUGHTERY  FLED  THE  SCENE  AFTER  ATTEMPTING  TO  ROB  A   RESIDENT  AT  GUN  POINT. DAUGHTERY  WAS   ARRESTED  IN  PIKE  COUNTY  BY  PIKE  COUNTY   DEPUTIES  AND  HIS  PROBATION OFFICER.

Steve Harvey Has Purchased The Rock Ranch

THE NEW OWNERS OF THE ROCK RANCH MET THE COMMUNITY SATURDAY AND SEEMED TO HIT IT OFF. TV CELEBRITY STEVE HARVEY AND WIFE MARJORIE, WHO LIVE IN ATLANTA ARE THE NEW OWNERS, WITH PLANS FOR PERMANENT LODGING FOR SEVERAL HUNDRED YOUTH FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY EACH SUMMER TO LEARN LIFE SKILLS, SOMETHING THE HARVEYS DID ANNUALLY AT THE ROCK RANCH UNDER A BIG TENT UNTIL THE COVID PANDEMIC. " THE STEVE AND MARJORIE HARVEY LEGACY RANCH" IS NOW THE FORMAL TITLE OF THE PROPERTY.

THE HARVEY'S SPOKE AND TOOK QUESTIONS BEFORE AN INVITATION ONLY AUDIENCE AT A TOWN HALL MEETING AT THE U-L FINE ARTS CENTER, AND STRESSED SAFETY OF THE COMMUNITY AND THE KIDS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT OF THEIR MISSION. HE ADDED THE YOUTH ARE KEPT SO BUSY, THEY DON'T HAVE TIME TO GET IN TROUBLE.

THE HARVEYS STATED THEY WILL INCLUDE COMMUNITY IN THEIR INVESTMENT, HIRING LOCALS, USING LOCAL CONTRACTORS TO BUILD PERMANENT STRUCTURES AND TAKING ON LOCAL YOUTH TO PARTICIPATE IN THEIR PROGRAMS.

THEY ENVISION YEAR ROUND ACTIVITIES INCLUDING CORPORATE RETREATS AND POSSIBLY SPORTS FIELDS OPEN TO LOCALS.

SHERIFF DAN KILGORE WAS ON THE PROGRAM AND WELCOMED THE HARVEYS TO UPSON COUNTY AND DURING Q&A THOMASTON'S MAYOR PRO TEM DOUG HEAD RELATED ITS GREAT TO HAVE THEM IN THE COMMUNITY.

STEVE SAID HE'S A COUNTRY BOY AT HEART, WHO GREW UP ON A FARM, SLOPPING HOGS AND BAILING HAY AND THE RANCH WILL ALSO SERVE AS A GET-A-WAY PLACE FOR HIM. .

STEVE HARVEY TOLD THE CROWD "I HAD TO BUY THIS RANCH BECAUSE I HAVE TO DO WHAT GOD TELLS ME TO DO."

Georgia Power Welcomes Hyundai Motor Group

Georgia Power today joined with Governor Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development to celebrate the decision by Hyundai Motor Group to open its first fully dedicated electric vehicle (EV) and battery manufacturing facility in the State of Georgia. The new state-of-the-art

U.S. smart factory will be located at the more than 2,900-acre Bryan County Megasite, representing a $5.54 billion investment by Hyundai Motor Group, with non-affiliated Hyundai suppliers expected to invest approximately another $1 billion in the project, delivering approximately 8,100 new jobs to Georgia’s coastal region.

Headquartered in Seoul, Korea, Hyundai Motor Group employs 250,000 people worldwide, with vehicles sold in 193 countries through 5,000 dealerships and showrooms.

“Coastal Georgia continues to grow and thrive, with the positive impact of the Port of Savannah felt every day in every community in the region. Today’s announcement in Bryan County is historic for our state, and only possible thanks to the foresight of state and local leaders who recognized the opportunity to create a megasite that could

offer unmatched opportunity for an innovative, international manufacturer like Hyundai Motor Group,” said Chris Womack, chairman, president, and CEO of Georgia Power, who also serves on the Georgia Ports Authority Board. “On behalf of Georgia Power, we welcome Hyundai Motor Group to Georgia today.”

At the new Georgia highly connected, automated, and flexible EV smart factory, Hyundai Motor Group plans to produce a diverse range of innovative full electric vehicles. Through the battery manufacturing facility, Hyundai Motor Group also aims to establish a stable supply chain for EV battery and other EV components in the U.S. market.

Georgia’s evolving automotive industry

To date, Georgia is home to more than 200 automotive-related facilities that contribute more than $3 billion annually to the state's economy. In 2021, Georgia boasted 977,000 workers to support these operations and facilities. Additionally, the state’s growing EV and battery production industry created 13,200 new jobs and $8 billion in new capital investment before Hyundai Motor Group’s announcement.

Georgia is recognized as a leader in electric transportation and is near the top in the nation for EV customer adoption and EV charging with thousands of connections available across the state. Georgia Power also continues to support the State of Georgia in proactive efforts to attract multibillion-dollar companies involved in the production, recycling, and development of the auto manufacturing industry and EV supply chain and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) throughout the state and region continue to shift their product lines to keep up with the increasing production of EVs.

“As more and more Georgians choose to drive electric, there is no better market in the country for auto manufacturers, supplier companies, and leaders in technology to collaborate and create the future of the EV marketplace. We look forward to continuing to work with partners across our state to build the infrastructure necessary to advance the electric transportation ecosystem here in Georgia,” added Womack.

Georgia Power also recently partnered with the University of Georgia’s College of Engineering to create an e- Mobility Certificate program. With elements of engineering, public policy, public health, and business acumen, this new program will prepare Georgia’s workforce for an electrified transportation future. The company is also working closely with design students at Georgia Tech to evaluate the environmental benefits and future workforce opportunities of transportation electrification.

In 2021, Georgia Power joined Southern Company and utilities across the South, Midwest, Gulf Coast, Central Plains and mid-Atlantic to enable EV drivers’ seamless travel through a coordinated network of charging stations. The Electric Highway Coalition will enable increased charging options along major highway routes from Texas to Washington, DC to provide easier access to EV options for drivers.

For more information about the benefits of electric transportation and how Georgia Power is leading the way in charging capabilities across the state, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/ET.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to

2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/Georgia Power), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

Drug Bust In Zebulon

On Wednesday the Zebulon Police Department in conjunction with the GBI, ended an in depth investigation, with the execution of a Search warrant as well as arrest warrants for Trafficking Cocaine. The suspect in this case Darjuan Seqeoria Harden has been apprehended.

The GBI along with the ZPD obtained a search warrant, for 76 Thomas St. Zebulon GA 30295. As well as arrest warrants for D. Harden

Officers conducted a traffic stop on Mr. Harden away from the residence to try and eliminate placing the family in harm’s way.

Upon execution of the search warrant officers found the entire family of Mr. Harden, which included his mother, wife, daughters, and newborn grandchild. During the investigation we found that Mr. Harden was selling illegal drugs directly from the residence while the family was often at the residence.

During the search of the residence officers located a stash of guns, and a large quantity of Crack Cocaine.

Authorities seized a total of 4 AR style rifles, with 8 magazines for these weapons, 2 pistols and two magazines for these weapons.

Also seized over 4 ounces of crack cocaine, some already broken into individual rocks for sale, and some freshly produced and broken down for single use sales.

Thomaston Featured On National TV Sunday

THOMASTON WILL BE A NATIONAL TV STAR SUNDAY AT 8PM ON HGTV PLUS STREAMING ON DISCOVERY +, A PROGRAM ENTITLED, "HOMETOWN KICKSTART PRESENTED BY PEOPLE." HGTV CELEBS BRIAN AND MIKA KLEINSCHMIDT OF TAMPA, FLORIDA, DID RENOVATION WORK IN THOMASTON AT PIGGLY PARK DRIVE-IN, DOWNTOWN FACADES AT HAIR ON THE SQUARE, UPPER CRUST, AND THE BASEMENT AT THE HOME OF MARLON AND TONIA BROWN, AN EXTRA-GIVING COUPLE FEATURED IN THE LATEST ISSUE OF PEOPLE.

CITY OF THOMASTON/SLICES PIZZERIA, INVITING EVERYONE TO A FREE TV WATCH PARTY FOR THE SHOW SUNDAY 5;30 TO 9 ON THE SQUARE, A MEET AND GREET FEATURING THE KLEINSCHMIDTS, LIVE MUSIC, FOOD TRUCKS, AND MORE.

MIKA AND BRIAN WERE INTERVIEWED ON THE BILL BAILEY MORNING SHOW FRIDAY ON FUN 101 FM AND SAID THEY ARE EXCITED TO BE RETURNING TO THOMASTON FOR THE SUNDAY EVENT.

GOV BRIAN KEMP IN THOMASTON THURSDAY

 A  CROWD  ESTIMATED  AT   150  WELCOMED  GOVERNOR  BRIAN  KEMP,  WIFE  MARTY,  A   DAUGHTER ,   AND  STATE  SENATOR  TYLER  HARPER--CANDIDATE  FOR  STATE  AG  COMMISSIONER,  TO  GREATEST  GENERATION  MEMORIAL  PARK   IN  THOMASTON,  THURSDAY.

THE  GOVERNOR  SHOOK  EVERY  HAND OFFERED  DURING  HIS    VISIT,  HIS  SECOND  TO  UPSON  COUNTY   SINCE ANNOUNCING  FOR  REELECTION.  DURING  REMARKS  TO  THE  CROWD , HE  TOUTED  HIS  TAX  REFUND  TO  GEORGIANS,  PAY  RAISE  FOR  TEACHERS  AND  STATE  EMPLOYEES,    KEEPING  BUSINESS  OPEN  DURING  THE  HEIGHT  OF  THE  COVID-19   PANDEMIC,  AND  HIS   JOBS  CREATION  RECORD. 

DURING  A   PRESS  CONFERENCE  BEFORE  DEPARTING , A  NEW  YORK  TIMES  REPORTER  QUIZZED    KEMP   ON  WHY  HE  HAS  NOT  RESPONDED  TO  DONALD  TRUMP'S   AND  DAVID  PERDUE'S    ADS   THAT  HE  HAS  BEEN  A  "DISASTER"  AS  GOVERNOR.    KEMP   APPEARED    TIRED OF  ANSWERING   THAT  QUESTION  FROM  THE   NATIONAL  NEWS  MEDIA,     RESPONDING  THAT  HE  IS   ONLY   FOCUSED  ON  HIS  REELECTION  CAMPAIGN  AND  NOT   ON  OUTSIDE "NOISE."

DRIVE BY SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN SPALDING

 SPALDING  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DARRELL  DIX  SAID  DEPUTIES  PATROLLING   INSIDE  CITY OF  GRIFFIN  COMBINED  WITH  THE  GRIFFIN P.D.  AND   BUTTS  COUNTY  S.O.   ARRESTED   5   SUSPECTS  IN  RECENT  DRIVE-BY  SHOOTINGS, WEDNESDAY NIGHT.

  ABOUT    30  SHOTS  WERE  FIRED  NEAR 409  JEFFERSON  STREET  AND  UNITS  GOT  BEHIND  A  BLACK 2012  TOYOTA  THAT  FLED  ON GA. 16  AND  HIT  SPEEDS  CLOSE  T0  100  UNTIL  STOP  STICKS   HALTED  THE  CAR  NEAR  THE  BUTTS  COUNTY  LINE.

THE  FIVE  ARRESTED;  DEONTREZ  SHIVERS,  19   AND    JESTON  MORGAN,  25  BOTH OF   JACKSON,  CHRISTOPHER  WALKER,  25   AND  GREGORY  GEE,  21  BOTH  OF     FLOVILLA,    AND  DEVIN  BROWN  20  OF  ATLANTA.  

DEPUTIES  FOUND  TWO  GLOCKS  ON  THE  HIGHWAY  THEY  BELIEVE  WERE  TOSSED  OUT  DURING  THE  CHASE--AND  A HANDGUN  MAGAZINE  WAS  FOUND  IN  THE  CAR.

Upson Lee High School Class of 2022 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Congratulations to Upson-Lee High School's Class of 2022 top 2 seniors, Valedictorian Monserrath Mata and Salutatorian Andrew Caldwell. Upson-Lee High School will hold its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2022 on Friday, May 27, at Matthews Field. Gates will open at 6:30 PM and the ceremony begins at 8 PM. This is a private ceremony, and a ticket is required for admission. Reserved seating is available on a first-come basis for those with green and yellow tickets. Please remember that no noisemakers, balloons, or tripods are allowed inside Matthews Field. The ceremony will be live-streamed on the Thomaston-Upson You Tube channel. The link will be available on the school district's webpage and social media pages on the day of the event.

THOMASTON COUPLE FEATURED IN PEOPLE MAG

 THE  LATEST  ISSUE OF PEOPLE  MAGAZINE  FEATURES  A  THOMASTON  COUPLE MARLON  AND  TONIA  BROWN  DESCRIBED  AS  MENTORS  ON  A  MISSION,  WHO  WILL  BE  HIGHLIGHTED  ON  HDTV  SUNDAY  NIGHT  8PM  AS  PART  OF  THE  HOMETOWN  HEROS  AMONG  US.   

THE  BROWNS  ARE  PART OF  THE  NEW  HDTV  SERIES --" HOMETOWN  KICKSTART  PRESENTED  BY  PEOPLE" -- AND  TELLS  THE  STORY  OF  HOW  THE  BROWNS  OPENED  THEIR  HEARTS  AND  HOMES  TO  HELP  YOUTH.

CITY  HALL  IS  SPONSORING  A  DOWNTOWN  WATCH  PARTY  ON  THE  SOUTHSIDE OF  THE  SQUARE  SUNDAY  EVENING   5;30  TO  9  WITH  A  BIG  SCREEN  AND  CONCESSIONS. 

TWO KILLED IN SOUTHERN UPSON CO

 UPSON  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DAN  KILGORE  CONFIRMS  TWO  MOTORISTS  WERE  KILLED  IN  A  HEAD-ON  COLLISION  ON  PLEASANT  GROVE  ROAD  NEAR  THE  CRAWFORD  COUNTY  LINE,  TUESDAY  AROUND  4;30PM.

REPORTS  ARE  THE  TWO  FATALITIES   ARE    CAMERON  TRAYLOR,  IN  HIS   20'S  WHO  PLAYED  ON  THE  UPSON-LEE  STATE  CHAMPIONSHIP  BASKETBALL  TEAM  AND  GRANT  KING  IN  HIS   60'S ,  A  CUSTODIAN  AT  UL  MIDDLE  SCHOOL  WHO   REPORTEDLY   WAS  PLANNING  TO  RETIRE  AFTER  THE  SCHOOL TERM.

101  NEWS  WAS  TOLD  MR.  KING  WAS  DRIVING  A  PICK-UP,  PULLING  A  TRAILOR  AND  MR.  TRAYLOR  WAS  IN  AN  AUTO, POSSIBLY  AN  AUDI  THAT  CAUGHT  ON  FIRE  AFTER  THE  CRASH   AND THEN   CAUGHT  THE  WOODS  ON  FIRE.

SHERIFF  KILGORE  ASKED  FOR  THOUGHTS  AND  PRAYERS  FOR  THE  TWO  FAMILIES  WHO  HAVE  LOST  LOVED-ONES.

UPSON COUNTY CLERK SWORN IN AS VICE PRESIDENT OF GEORGIA COUNTY CLERK’S ASSOCIATION

Chairman Norman Allen and the Upson County Board of Commissioners are delighted to announce that Upson County Clerk, Jessica Jones, was sworn in as Vice President of the Georgia County Clerk’s Association (GCCA) on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.

 The Georgia County Clerk's Association was established over 50 years ago to generate a coordinated interest among County Clerks and their Boards of Commissioners in county affairs, and to promote the welfare of county government. As Vice President of the GCCA, Jessica is authorized to act in all instances and with equal power as the President when the President is not present at meetings or is otherwise unable to attend to official duties, serve as Chairman of the Budget Committee, and the office of Vice President shall be affirmed at the Annual Meeting of the Board.

 

Jessica Jones has worked for Upson County for over twelve years and has held the role of Upson County Clerk for eight years. She is a Certified County Clerk and previously held the position of Treasurer of the GCCA before taking on the job of Vice President in 2022.

 

Jessica excels at the core duty of a county clerk, which  is to serve as the official record keeper for the county.  She has implemented new processes that resulted in county records becoming easily referenceable and searchable documents.  She was able to create an archive of all board actions including meeting minutes, official communications, board contracts, and much more.  Not only has she implemented these new processes, but she has also been able to go back to previous records and use

her current strategies to organize and streamline older records so that they, too are a searchable archive.

 

Upson County Manager, Jason Tinsley shared, “Jessica is the type of forward thinker that I like to have on my team.  She works each day to create an accurate record of the official actions and plans of our county.  She thinks outside of the box and comes up with creative ways to implement successful record keeping strategies.  I know that anyone who works for our county in the future will be grateful for the level of detail that she puts into her work each day.”  

 

Jessica always works to improve herself both professionally and personally.  When she is not dedicating her time to her job, she is active in her community.  Jessica is church secretary at Log Town Bethel Church.  She is also a member of the Middle Georgia Basketball Officials Association and serves as a referee for local basketball games including both recreational league and school sponsored games.

 

To learn more about GCCA and the leadership duties that Jessica will fulfill as Vice President, please visit https://www.georgiacca.com/.

GUILTY PLEAS – JUDGE BEN J. MILLER, JR

           MAY 16, 2022

TELLY WYCHE, CT. 1: POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE: ALFORD PLEA: 3 YEARS TO SERVE. CT. 2: POSSESSION OF DRUG RELATED OBJECTS: NOLLE PROSEQUI. CT. 3: POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY CONVICTED FELON: 5 YEARS TO SERVE CONCURRENT TO COUNT 1. CT. 4: POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY CONVICTED FELON: 5 YEARS TO SERVE CONCURRENT TO COUNT 3; CONCURRENT TO CASE 21R0246.

 

TELLY WYCHE, CT. 1: BATTERY FAMILY VIOLENCE: ALFORD PLEA: 12 MONTHS TO SERVE CONCURRENT TO CASE 21R0245.

 

DARRON STOKES, CT. 1: VIOLATION OF THE RACKETEER INFLUENCED AND CORRURPT ORGANIZATION ACT: 10 YEARS, SERVE 2     YEARS IN PRISON; FOLLOWED BY 8 YEARS ON PROBATION; $1,000 FINE; BANISHMENT FROM THE GRIFFIN JUDICIAL CIRCUIT. CT. 2: VIOLATION OF THE RACKETEER INFLUENCED AND CORRURPT ORGANIZATION ACT: NOLLE PROSEQUI.

FUN 101FM TO AIR PIKE PIRATES STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

 THE  PIKE  COUNTY  PIRATES  MOVED  TO  THE  STATE  CHAMPIONSHIP    SERIES   BY  SWEEPING  DEFENDING  STATE  CHAMPS,  NORTH  HALL  OF  GAINESVILLE,  MONDAY  IN  ZEBULON  5-2  AND  9-2.  PIKE  PLAYS   THE  WINNER  OF    THE    REDAN-PIERCE  COUNTY  GAME  IN  BLACKSHEAR,GA.  TODAY .  THE  STATE  CHAMPIONSHIP    SERIES    WILL  BE  PLAYED  IN  THE  BRAVES  FARM  TEAM     BALL  PARK    IN  GWINNETT COUNTY.  FIRST  GAME  MONDAY  5PM,  FOLLOWED  BY  THE  2ND  AND  IF  A  3RD  GAME  IS  NECESSARY  TUESDAY  AT  12;30.

ALL  GAMES  ON  FUN  101  FM.

Thomaston Native Wins World Tennis Championship

Thomaston native Joe Perdue and his doubles tennis partner Oren Motevassel are undefeated in doubles matches this year after winning the ITF World Clay Court 55's in Palm Beach, Florida.

The USTA (US Tennis Assoc) governs tennis in the US, the ITF (International Tennis Federation) governs tennis globally and runs the World Championships each year somewhere across the globe.

The USTA classifies tournaments from Levels 1 (National Championship) down to the smallest Level 7. The World Championship is a special category of it’s own above Level 1. The bigger the tournament, the more ranking points you get for winning matches. Each year, the USTA has 3 National Championships for each age group, one on each surface, grass, clay and hard courts.

At National Championships, tournament players aspire to win a gold, silver or bronze ball representing 1st, 2nd or 3rd place. These have been the ultimate prizes for tournament players for decades.

Growing up Joe prioritized football, basketball and baseball, but always enjoyed playing tennis in the summers for fun, along with Ms. Wilder’s group lessons at Weaver Park.

Joe never played junior tournaments but did play on the high school team. Paul Sheets and Joe made it to the finals of state their junior year and lost in the semis their senior year.

Joe graduated from R. E. Lee in 1985 and West Point in 1989. While in the Army, and after, he played all the rec-type sports, softball, flag football, volleyball and basketball. In 1998 he became very serious about triathlon for several years.

In 2006 Joe rediscovered tennis. He’d been away from the game for close to 20 years, so he took lessons, practiced and began playing lower level tournaments.

In 2017, he played a Level 2 tournament in Atlanta against the #1 seed, Oren Motevassel. Joe lost 6-3, 6-2 but was thrilled with that result. Oren and Joe became friends, Oren would watch his matches along with Joe's wife Suzie and pass along helpful coaching tips.

In 2018, Oren and Joe decided to play together at the 2018 Clay Court National Championship. With low expectations, they were surprised to win a silver ball (2nd place losing in finals 7-6, 7-5).

In 2020 (during the COVID shutdown of tournaments) they decided to play some tournaments in the 50s to prepare for the first year in the 55s. Again, they were surprised to make it to the finals (another Silver Ball) of the 2021 Grass Court National Championships held in Providence, Rhode Island for the 50+ age group and were 4th place in the Hard Court 50s National Championships in October in Peachtree City, Georgia.

In 2022, they are undefeated and have won three Level 2 tournaments in Naples FL, St. Petersburg FL and Baton Rouge. The team's confidence coming into the World Championships was high as they drew a first round bye. In the 2nd round they defeated a team from Portugal 6-2, 6-4 and defeated a team from Mexico 6-1, 6-1 in the 3rd round. The quarterfinal match against a team from Finland went to a tie breaker and after being down 2-7, Joe and Oren ran off 8 straight points to win the match. The semi-final round against a team from the Netherlands also reached a tie breaker. The pair won the final round in straight sets 6-0, 6-2.

Joe and his wife Suzie also won a Silver Ball at the Husband-Wife Hard Court National Championship for the 50+ age group in 2021. Joe has also won 13 City Championships over the years in ALTA (Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association) leagues.

Joe and Suzie live in Peachtree City, GA where Joe now owns a financial services firm with 3 partners.

EARLY VOTING OPEN IN GA. SAT 5/14/22

EARLY VOTING IS OPEN SATURDAY MAY 14, IN GEORGIA--FOR THE MAY 24TH PRIMARY.

THE LATEST TOTALS FOR UPSON COUNTY THROUGH FRIDAY 1227 IN-PERSON 112 ABSENTEE

IN PIKE COUNTY A 6% TURN-OUT WITH A WEEK TO GO---892 TOTAL IN-PERSON 65 ABSENTEE. REGISTRAR DAVID NEYHART REPORTS PIKE COUNTY IS CLOSE TO BREAKING THE RECORD FOR IN-PERSON EARLY VOTING IN THE 2020 PRIMARY, AVERAGING OVER 80 PER DAY.

Spalding County Man Arrested For Child Sex Crimes

On Thursday, Brandon Smith, age 29, of Spalding County, Georgia, was charged with 2 counts of Sexual Exploitation of Children (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material) and 2 counts of Sexual Exploitation of Children (Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material) by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes (CEACC) Unit.

The GBI CEACC Unit began an investigation into Smith’s online activity after receiving a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding the online possession of images depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The investigation led to a search warrant at Smith’s residence in Spalding County, Georgia, and his subsequent arrest. Smith was found in Jasper County, Georgia, at the time of his arrest, but was directly taken to the Spalding County Jail. The Spalding County Sheriff’s Office and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office assisted with this case.

This investigation is part of the ongoing effort by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, housed within the GBI’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit, to identify those involved in the child pornography trade. The ICAC Program, created by the U. S. Department of Justice, was developed in response to the increasing number of children and teenagers using the Internet, the proliferation of child sexual abuse material, and the heightened online activity by predators searching for unsupervised contact with underage victims.

Anyone with information about other cases of child exploitation is asked to contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Unit at 404-270-8870.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS(8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

Pike County Man Arrested For Child Sex Crimes

On Thursday, Caden Collis, age 17, of Pike County, Georgia, was charged with 3 counts of Sexual Exploitation of Children (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material), 1 count of Sexual Exploitation of Children (Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material), and 1 count of Tampering with Evidence, by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes (CEACC) Unit.

The GBI CEACC Unit began an investigation into Collis’ online activity after receiving a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding the online possession of images depicting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The investigation led to a search warrant at Collis’ residence in Pike County, Georgia, and his subsequent arrest. The Pike County Sheriff’s Office assisted the GBI with this case.

This investigation is part of the ongoing effort by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, housed within the GBI’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit, to identify those involved in the child pornography trade. The ICAC Program, created by the U. S. Department of Justice, was developed in response to the increasing number of children and teenagers using the Internet, the proliferation of child sexual abuse material, and the heightened online activity by predators searching for unsupervised contact with underage victims.

Anyone with information about other cases of child exploitation is asked to contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Unit at 404-270-8870.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS(8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

Thursday Is Travon Signing Day

THE NFL NETWORK IS REPORTING THOMASTON'S TRAVON WALKER,  THE #1 SELECTION IN THE NFL DRAFT, WAS SCHEDULED TO SIGN THURSDAY WITH THE JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS.

THE CONTRACT IS A GUARANTEED $37.4 MILLION OVER FOUR YEARS, INCLUDING A $24.4 MILLION SIGNING BONUS, AND THE CONTRACT INCLUDES A FIFTH-YEAR TEAM OPTION. THE CONTRACT IS FULLY GUARANTEED.

NEW A.D. AT UPSON-LEE

 At the Tuesday, May 10th, board meeting, the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education approved Dr. Howard Busby as Athletic Director of Upson-Lee High School, as recommended by Superintendent Dr. Larry Derico. Dr. Busby has been employed with Thomaston-Upson Schools since 2019. He has taught health and physical education, weight training, driver's education, business, and work-based learning at Upson-Lee High School. Dr. Busby has coached multiple sports for the Knights, including football, baseball, and track.  Congratulations to Dr. Busby!

PIKE CO PIRATES SEMI FINALS ON FUN 101FM

 THE  PIKE  COUNTY  PIRATES  ADVANCED  TO  THE  STATE  SEMI FINALS,  WEDNESDAY  WITH  AN   8-1  WIN  OVER  G.A.C.  NEXT  UP  A   SERIES  WITH    THE  DEFENDING  STATE  CHAMPS  NORTH  HALL  MONDAY  4PM   IN  ZEBULON -- THE  FIRST  GAME  OF  A  DOUBLE  HEADER.  IF  A  THIRD  GAME  IS  NECESSARY  ITS  TUESDAY  AT  4.  ALL  GAMES  BROADCAST  ON  FUN   101 FM.

WE FONDLY REMEMBER LINDA BEST

THANKS TO LINDA FOR KEEPING ME OUT OF TROUBLE ON THE ROAD. THE TRAVEL CONNECTION WAS IN PARIS JUST WEEKS AFTER DIANA'S TRAGIC CRASH AND WE WERE STANDING OUTSIDE A SIDEWALK CAFE WHEN LINDA SUDDENLY CALLED OUT TO ME. "DAVE, DAVE, HERE COMES YOKO ONO, SPEAK TO HER DAVE, SPEAK TO HER."

I STEPPED OUT FRONT OF THE GROUP AND SHOW NUFF WALKING TOWARD US WAS YOKO ONO. WHEN SHE APPROACHED , I SPOKE UP AND SAID "HELLO YOKO" AND SHE SMILED AND SAID "HELLO," AND WALKED ON BY. I GUESS U COULD SAY THAT WAS MY BRUSH WITH FAME, UNLESS YOU COUNT THE TIME I SHOOK HANDS WITH PRESIDENT GERALD FORD IN LAS VEGAS, OR PERHAPS THE TIME I SHOOK HANDS WITH LARRY "BUD" MELMAN FROM THE DAVID LETTERMAN SHOW AT A BRAVES WORLD SERIES GAME.

DAVE

PIKE CO LOSING EMS PROVIDER

 Pike County has received a letter of termination of services from Veterans Medical Transport, LLC. According to the letter of termination, the services will end on June 10, 2022. Pike County is investigating all available options to ensure the provision of the Emergency Medical Services in Pike County in view of the stated termination date.

Upson BOC Votes No To Mini Warehouses On Knight Trail

THE UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FOLLOWED A RECOMMENDATION OF DENIAL FROM PLANNING AND ZONING STAFF--TUESDAY AND NIXED A PROPOSAL TO PUT 91 MINI WAREHOUSE UNITS ON KNIGHT TRAIL AT 74 EAST--A REQUEST FROM LINDA R. RIGGINS OF YATESVILLE.

THE UPSON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION HAD RECOMMENDED THE REZONING AND SPECIAL EXCEPTION WITH CONDITIONS BY A 3-0 VOTE WITH CHAIR ALECIA MCKINLEY ABSTAINING BECAUSE SHE OWNS ADJOINING PROPERTY.

NO ONE TESTIFIED AGAINST THE REQUEST AT TUESDAY'S MEETING--BUT CHAIRMAN NORMAN ALLEN SAID HIS PHONE HAD BEEN RINGING OFF THE HOOK, APPARENTLY OPPOSED TO THE MINI WAREHOUSES, SO CLOSE TO THE SCHOOLS COMPLEX.

MS. RIGGINS TOLD THE COMMISSIONERS THE BUSINESS WOULD NOT INTERFERE WITH SCHOOL TRAFFIC, BUT COMMISSIONER JAMES ELLINGTON EXPRESSED CONCERN ABOUT THE SAFETY OF STUDENTS IN MAKING THE MOTION TO DENY.

PLANNING AND ZONING DIRECTOR DOUG CURRIER SAID HIS RECOMMENDATION TO DENY FROM A-R TO C-2 ZONING WAS BASED ON THE LACK OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES IN THE AREA, IN EFFECT, IT WOULD BE SPOT ZONING, PLUS IT WAS NOT A BUSINESS COMPATABLE WITH SCHOOLS.

THOMASTON CELEBRATES TRAVON

 

UPSON BOC SUPPORTS BROADBAND

Upson County received an official certificate from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs naming Upson County a Georgia Broadband Ready Community.

UPSON OBSERVES BUILDING SAFETY MONTH

Upson County Commission Chairman, Norman Allen, and Upson County Building Official, Thomas Keyt, signed a proclamation this morning recognizing May as Building Safety Month.

T-U BOE FORUM REPLAY

 FUN  101  FM  WILL  REPLAY  A  POLITICAL  FORUM  THIS  SUNDAY  AT  6AM  FEATURING  CANDIDATES  FOR  THOMASTON-UPSON  BOARD OF  EDUCATION.

Spalding Sheriff Dix Attacks Drive-By Shootings

In January of 2022, Operation Zero Tolerance was initiated because of another rise in drive-by shootings. That operation was a 9-day detail that resulted in 36 arrests that particularly targeted documented violent street gang members. The operation was successful, and the shooting incidents were greatly reduced. In response to the recent rise of drive-by shooting incidents in Spalding County, mostly centered in the city of Griffin, the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office launched another operation targeting criminal street gangs and the areas they frequently visit in the Griffin-Spalding area.

From May 2nd through May 6th of 2022 a similar operation based on similar incidents, was conducted by Spalding County Special Operations and STING Unit, Georgia Bureau of Investigations, Georgia Department of Community Supervision, and Spalding County Sheriff’s Office Uniform Patrol Officers. During this 5-day zero tolerance operation resulted in a total of 27 arrests. Out those 27 arrests, 17 were either confirmed criminal street gang members or their associates. This 5-day collaborative effort led to 6 firearms being taken off the streets, 4 of which were stolen, including one from as far as Delaware. It also led to the seizure of cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, various pills, stolen dirt bikes, along with the execution of six search warrants. 

Sheriff Darrell Dix, “We believe that the shootings that have occurred recently are related to an unsolved homicide in the city. The groups are fighting each other, and the fighting has escalated to the point we find ourselves at now. It is just a matter of time before another innocent child or adult is going to be shot or killed by some gang banging idiot who decides to shoot at a house. Whether misdemeanors or felonies, arrests were made in this operation. Unfortunately, it is against the law to no-bond a misdemeanor offender, but if they keep breaking the law when they get out, we will keep arresting them, no problem.” 

“The last time I looked at a map the city of Griffin was located in Spalding County, and the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office is going to do all we can to protect the folks who live anywhere in the county. The actions we are taking may not completely stop this from happening, but I’ll be dammed if we’re going to sit back and do nothing. This is about responding to the areas where these incidents occur and doing all we can to stop it.” 

“For the past few months, we have been focusing on the distribution of heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy in Spalding County. Now we have turned our attention once again to these violent gang offenders. It does not matter who you are, where you live, or the color of your skin; wrong is wrong, and right is right, no matter who you are. Every single one of us, no matter who we are, what we look like, or where we live, has to start holding the ones who are literally acting like terrorists in our neighborhoods accountable for their choices and actions without excuses. The people who live in these areas are sick of it, and since houses cannot shoot back, sooner or later the people who live in them will.” 

“We want to express our gratitude to the Georgia Bureau of Investigations Gang Unit, and Georgia Department of Community Supervision for teaming with us, their continued support, and assistance. We will all continue to target documented gang members of the Bloods, Crips, Ghostface Gangsters, YNKE, and Gangster Disciples, and others who commit acts of violence and intimidate people who just want to be safe in their own homes. 

To report gang activity or speak with a STING Investigator, please call 770-467-4210.” A list of names and charges will be provided at a later date.

OINK JOINT EATERY ZEBULON DAMAGED BY FIRE

ACCORDING TO  BECKY  WATTS  AT  PIKE   COUNTY  TIMES  .  COM--EXTENSIVE  DAMAGE  TO  THE  OINK  JOINT  BAR  B  Q  RESTAURANT   IN DOWNTOWN  ZEBULON  EARLY TUESDAY. 

IT  STARTED  IN  THE  KITCHEN  AREA  AROUND  2;30AM  AND  FIRE  UNITS  FROM PIKE  COUNTY,  SPALDING,  GRIFFIN,  AND  NORTHSIDE  THOMASTON  RESPONDED.

UNITS  MANAGED  TO  CONTAIN  THE  FIRE  TO  THE  COOKING  AREA,  BUT    THE  INTERIOR  OF  THE   RESTAURANT  AND   AJOINING  BUILDINGS  DID  SUSTAIN  SOME  SMOKE  DAMAGE.

COUNTY  MANAGER  BRANDON  ROGERS  TOLD  101  NEWS   THIS  MORNING   THERE   IS  STILL  A  SMOKEY  ODOR  IN  DOWNTOWN  ZEBULON  BUT  HE   COMMENDED    PIKE  COUNTY  DEPUTY  JASON  WRIGHT  AND  ANOTHER  DEPUTY  FOR  BEING  THE  FIRST  ON  THE  SCENE  OF  THE  FIRE  AND  ALERTING  FIRE  DEPARTMENTS.

Helipad Nearing Completion at Upson Regional Medical Center

Beginning sometime in June, medical helicopters will begin utilizing Upson Regional Medical Center’s brand-new helipad. 

 

The decision to build the helipad was based on a desire to enhance emergency services to better serve area communities. The new helipad is located at the south end of the hospital’s top parking deck, a short distance from the Emergency Department entrance. 

 

Previously, medical helicopters have landed on the front lawn of the Thomaston First United Methodist Church.  An ambulance and crew were necessary to meet the helicopter in order to transport patients to or from Upson Regional. “Depending on a patient’s condition, time can equal life or quality of life,” said Upson Regional CEO Jeff Tarrant. “We are so appreciative that our friends at the First United Methodist Church have allowed landings on their property for quite a few years.  Constructing a helipad on the hospital’s campus, however, will reduce patient transport times significantly.  We know this will make an immediate difference in the lives of our patients,” he added. 

 

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held very soon, with plans for a ceremonial first landing at that time. 

 

“The helipad is a significant investment in our hospital and community—a very visible sign of progress as we continue to look for ways we can expand and improve healthcare within our six-county region.,” said Tarrant. “We look forward to celebrating the positive impact this will make,” he added.

EARLY VOTING UPSON, PIKE, LAMAR

 HERE'S  EARLY  VOTING  TOTALS   THROUGH     SATURDAY  FOR  THE   MAY  24TH  PRIMARY--

UPSON  COUNTY--626,  PIKE  COUNTY   433,  LAMAR  COUNTY  318.

WEEKEND RESCUE ON THE FLINT RIVER

 FOUR   MEMBERS  OF A  MANCHESTER  FAMILY  WERE  RESCUED   SATURDAY  EVENING   BY  THURSTON  FIRE  DEPARTMENT  AFTER  THEIR  CANOE  TRIP  ON  THE  FLINT  RIVER    FROM  SPREWELL  BLUFF    WAS        CAUGHT  BY   DARKNESS  BEFORE  THEY  COULD  REACH  THE  HIGHWAY   36  BRIDGE.

UPSON  S.O.  SAID  THE  FAMILY  WAS  O.K.  AFTER  IT  WAS  CONTACTED  BY  KATHERN  EDGEMAN  WHO  SAID  THEY  WERE  STRANDED  ON  THE  RIVER . THURSTON  FIRST  RESPONDERS  FOUND  THEM  ON  THE  UPSON  COUNTY  SIDE  OF  THE  RIVER , PAST  TABLE  ROCK. 

JOHN, LANDON, DAKOTA,  AND  KATHERN  EDGEMAN  WERE  IN  THE  PARTY. 

DISTRICT ATTORNEY MARIE BRODER REPORTS

 Doing the Right Thing

A whiff of summer is upon us and I am yet again thankful for the blessing of air conditioning. Away from the Office, I have been happily watching our little backyard garden sprout while dreaming of some fresh tomatoes and green beans. Here’s to hoping the deer and rabbits don’t get to them first.

As things heat up outside, our offices continue to simmer with trials and trial preparation. Last week, a Spalding County Jury sent another message to wrongdoers in our community by convicting an armed robber who stole a purse from a customer at the Ringgold’s Grocery at the point of a gun. Our team was headed by Adele Petersen and Holly MacDonald with support from our victim advocates, investigators, and the hard work of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office. I am very proud of their hard work and the outcome. Judge W. Fletcher Sams sentenced the Defendant, who was a felon previously convicted of armed robbery, to life without the possibility of parole.

While I often focus on the outward result of my offices’ work, there are thousands of decisions that take place without ever entering the public eye. This work is not done in secret, of course, but the kind editors who publish these articles would not have room for me to tell you about everything that happens on a given day in our office.

What do I mean by these thousand quiet decisions? I am referring to cases that cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that are dismissed, pleas that are negotiated with due consideration to the victims, defendants, and community at large, and hard conversations that happen between our Office and Defense Attorneys, Victims, and the law enforcement officers who bring us cases. The guiding principle that I strive to follow, and what I expect each of my employees to follow, is this: always do the right thing, even when it’s hard, and especially when no one is looking.

How does this play out? A case comes across your desk where someone was caught red-handed with a significant amount of hard drugs. But, in reviewing the file, you see the investigating officer has made what appears to be a mistake—he should have obtained a search warrant. There might be some arguable legal justification for why he didn’t, but what is the right thing to do? Pursue a charge when you know someone is guilty but the evidence was not obtained according to the law? Or dismiss the case and address the mistake with the law enforcement officer? What is the right thing? Hard as it might be to let someone who is guilty of poisoning our

community walk free, the right thing to do is dismiss the case and talk to the officer so the violation of a Constitutional right does not happen again. Thankfully, law enforcement in our Circuit also strive to do the right thing and this issue rarely arises. Yet, these sorts of decision happen on a large and small scale every day in our office. And they are not easy choices. But you trust us to make them and we do not take that for granted.

None of us are perfect. We make mistakes. But our oath and our duty are clear: please know that even when you are not looking - we are striving to do the right thing.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Mother’s Day. I am the product of an amazing mother, grandmothers, and a lovely mother-in-law. Many great women in my family have fought so that I could be the first appointed and then elected female District Attorney of the Griffin Judicial Circuit. I pray that I can show my daughter that she can also achieve anything that she strives to be. Thank you to all the mothers out there. You make the world go round. Until next time, be kind to your mamas and also to one anothe

UPSON COUNTY MANAGER JASON TINSLEY REAPPOINTED TO SERVE ON ACCG’S BOARD OF MANAGERS

Upson County Manager, Jason Tinsley, was recently reappointed to serve as
a member of the Board of Managers on the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG or Georgia’s County Association) Board of Managers. The 2022-2023 Board of Managers was sworn in during a special luncheon at the ACCG Annual Conference in Chatham County.

“Elected by their peers each spring, the ACCG Board of Managers is a group of dynamic leaders that serve as decisionmakers on behalf of our organization,” said Executive Director Dave Wills. “I would like to congratulate our newly installed Board and look forward to working alongside them to continue the work of advancing Georgia’s counties.”

 

Jason Tinsley has served as Upson County Manager since 2018. In his current role, Tinsley is responsible for managing and coordinating all county government operations and other activities as specified by federal, state and local law, and as directed by the Board of County Commissioners in order to provide innovative, effective and fiscally responsible government services. Previous roles held by Jason include Senior Management and Budget Analyst for Leon County (FL), Assistant County Manager and Finance Director for Habersham County (GA), County Administrator for Wayne County (GA), City Manager for the City of Jefferson (GA) and County Manager for Marion County (GA). In his former positions, Tinsley gained significant experience in local government finance, policy analysis, economic development, and human resource management.

 

In addition to his role as a member of the Board of Managers with the ACCG, he acts as President of the Georgia Association of County Managers and Administrators. Jason also serves as a member of the National Association of Counties (NACO) Finance, Pensions and Intergovernmental Affairs Steering Committee, International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and the Georgia City/County Management Association (GCCMA).

 

Jason and his wife, Kaylyn, reside in Thomaston, Georgia with their four children, Jackson, Joel, Jensen and Anne. Jason enjoys spending his spare time coaching his sons in youth sports, running and spending time on the Georgia coast with his family. Tinsley holds his bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master of City Management degree from East Tennessee State University.