TUAC CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

 TUAC  PRESENTS  THE  SOUNDS  OF  THE  SEASON  CHRISTMAS  SPECTACULAR  MONDAY,  DECEMBER  4TH  AT  7PM  AT  THE  U-L  FINE  ARTS  CENTER.

THOMASTON MAN ARRESTED FOR MURDER

A  THOMASTON   MAN  HAS  BEEN  ARRESTED  FOR  MURDER  AND  ARMED  ROBBERY  AT  THE  PLEEZING  FOOD  STORE  ON  HIGHWAY   80  IN  CRAWFORD  COUNTY.  UPSON  COUNTY  DEPUTIES  FOUND  THE  SUSPECT,  22-YEAR  OLD  RYAN  LEE  TEAL  OF  THOMASTON  WALKING  ON  HIGHWAY   80  TUESDAY  NIGHT  AND  TOOK  HIM  INTO  CUSTODY. 

THE    STORE CLERK  ,  40-YEAR  OLD  PRISHANDA  GEMISHA  COLBERT  WAS  FOUND  OUTSIDE  THE  STORE  AROUND  5;45PM  MONDAY.  THE  BODY WAS  SENT  TO  THE  STATE  CRIME  LAB   TO  DETERMINE  CAUSE OF  DEATH.

JOINT STATEMENT FROM CAMP AND KNIGHT ON NEW DISTRICT MAP

 Statements from Reps. Beth Camp and David Knight on Proposed Remedial House Districts and Map

 

ATLANTA – State Representatives Beth Camp (R-Concord) and David Knight (R-Griffin) today released the following joint statement:

 

“The chairman of the Georgia House Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee released a proposed House map today in accordance with a federal judge’s court order requiring the legislature to draw a remedial map with five additional majority minority districts. While we do not agree with the ruling and an appeal to a high court has been filed, the Georgia General Assembly must take action to comply with the deadline to complete the maps or the maps will be drawn by the court. As a result of complying with the order, a new District 135 has been created, pairing Representatives Beth Camp and David Knight as incumbents for the 2024 election cycle. Both representatives are committed to representing their constituents at the highest level possible and look forward to the upcoming 2024 session.” 

 

“I have the utmost respect for Representative Knight and appreciate our working relationship,” added Rep. Camp. “This is an unfortunate situation, but I have faith that the best interests of all citizens of Lamar, Pike and Spalding will be served. It is my honor to represent my constituents.”

 

“I am saddened by the outcome of the new map which places me, along with my friend and trusted colleague Representative Beth Camp, together in the new District 135,” added Rep. Knight. “No matter the future outcome of elections, I know the constituents of Spalding, Pike, and Lamar will be well represented.”

 

Representative Beth Camp represents the citizens of District 135, which includes portions of Lamar, Pike and Upson counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2020 and currently serves as Chairman of the Intragovernmental Coordination Committee. She also serves on the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications, Juvenile Justice, State Planning & Community Affairs and Ways & Means committees.

 

Representative David Knight represents the citizens of District 134, which includes portions of Lamar, Monroe and Spalding counties. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 2004 and currently serves as Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education. He also serves on the Banks & Banking, Game, Fish & Parks, Health, Higher Education, Rules, Small Business Development and Ways & Means committees.

 

###

 

CAMP LOSES UPSON IN NEW HOUSE MAP

 THE  SPECIAL  SESSION  OF  THE  GA.  GENERAL  ASSEMBLY  OPENED  WEDNESDAY     AND  A    PROPOSED  REDRAWN  HOUSE  MAP  DROPS  UPSON  COUNTY  FROM  THE  DISTRICT  OF  REPRESENTATIVE  BETH  CAMP  AND  PUTS  HER  IN  THE  SAME   DISTRICT  WITH  DAVID  KNIGHT  OF  GRIFFIN--A  NEW  DISTRICT  135   OF  LAMAR,  PIKE,  AND  SPALDING  COUNTY.  IN  A   JOINT   PRESS  RELEASE  FROM  BOTH    REPUBLICAN   REPRESENTATIVES  --THEY  INDICATE  DISMAY  WITH  THE  NEW  DISTRICT  BUT  THEY  PLAN  TO  RUN  AGAINST  EACH  OTHER  IN  THE  MAY  2024  PRIMARY.

PEDESTRIAN FATALITY IN UPSON

 A  PEDESTRIAN  FATALITY  IN  UPSON  COUNTY  BEFORE  DAYLIGHT  MONDAY  JEFF  DAVIS  ROAD  NEAR  SANDERS  STREET.  UPSON  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DAN  KILGORE  SAID  A   49  YEAR  OLD  INDIAN  NATIONAL  WHO  HAD  ONLY  BEEN  IN   THE  U.S  FOR  A  FEW  DAYS  WAS  THE  VICTIM.  HE  WAS  WALKING  IN  THE  ROAD WITH  A  COMPANION  AND  WAS    WEARING  DARK  CLOTHING    WITH  HIS  BACK  TO  TRAFFIC  WHEN  HE  WAS  STRUCK  BY  A  SMALL  SUV  AND  WAS  DECEASED  AT  THE  SCENE.  DEPUTIES TURNED  THE  ACCIDENT  INVESTIGATION  OVER  TO  THE  GA.  STATE  PATROL.  

LAMAR CO CJ ALLEN FROSH OF WEEK--AGAIN

 FOR  THE   2ND  TIME  THIS  SEASON  LAMAR  COUNTY'S C.J. ALLEN  HAS  BEEN  NAMED  SEC  FRESHMAN  OF  THE  WEEK  FOR  HIS PLAY  AGAINST  GA.  TECH.  HE  RECEIVED  THE  HONOR  THE  FIRST  TIME  IN  THE  OLE  MISS  WIN.  IN  THE   TECH  GAME  C.J.  RECORDED  3  SOLO  TACKLES  AND  5  ASSIST  TACKLES.LAMAR'S  CJ  ALL

Murder Suspect Shot After Returning To Scene of The Crime

Dustin Allen Phillips

A nearly 24-hour manhunt in Coweta County has come to an end after deputies say the suspect they were looking for returned to the scene of the original crime.

Deputies say Dustin Allen Phillips, who was wanted for killing a woman at 150 Halo Trace on Tuesday, came back to the house late Wednesday night.

Moments after deputies arrived, the Coweta County Sheriff's Office says Phillips shot at them. They returned fire.

The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. No officers were injured in the shooting.

Officials say Phillips had an active warrant out for his arrest for felony murder. 

Venessa Phillips

Family members have identified the murder victim as Venessa Phillips.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said a full report on what happened would be released on Thursday.

FUN 101 TO AIR FLINT RIVER ACADEMY STATE TITLE GAME

 THE  UNDEFEATED  FLINT  RIVER  ACADEMY  WILDCATS   HAVE   MADE  THE  FINALS  OF  THE PLAY-OFFS      AND  FUN  101 FM  IS  MAKING PLANS  TO  AIR  THE      THOMASTON-BASED  GIAA   STATE  CHAMPIONSHIP  GAME    BETWEEN  FLINT  RIVER  AND  ROBERT  TOOMBS  CHRISTIAN  ACADEMY  OF LYONS, GA.  FRIDAY  DECEMBER  IST.

THE   STATE  TITLE  GAME  WILL  BE  PLAYED  AT   THE  MERCER  UNIVERSITY  FOOTBALL STADIUM  IN  MACON  WITH  A   2PM  KICK-OFF.  AIR  TIME  ON  FUN   101  WILL  BE  1 O'CLOCK.

Thomaston Man One of Four Georgia men arrested on exploitation charges by GBI

Over the past month, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes (CEACC) Unit has arrested four men from Georgia counties on exploitation charges, according to agency releases.

 

The first arrest took place on October 23, 2023, following an investigation into the online activity of a 37-year-old man as part of Operation Sneaky Peach. The suspect, Windford Griffin, initially lived in Thomaston, Upson County, but later relocated to Hinesville in Liberty County during the investigation. After a search warrant was executed at Griffin's home, he was arrested on ten counts of sexual exploitation of children and booked into the Liberty County Jail before being transported to the Upson County Jail.

 

Operation Sneaky Peach is a statewide, multi-jurisdictional operation targeting users involved in the possession and trading of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

 

On November 3, 18-year-old Marquavius Curtis was arrested by the United States Army Criminal Investigative Division at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, after the GBI CEACC issued warrants for him on two counts of sexual exploitation of children. An investigation into Curtis' online activity was initiated following a Cyber Tipline Report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

 

Gerald Glen Fleming, a 74-year-old Oconee man, faces ten counts of charges after investigators found evidence of his possession and distribution of sexual abuse material during a search of his home. The investigation, prompted by a Cyber Tipline Report from the NCMEC, led to the search of Fleming's Oconee home on November 7.

 

Simultaneously, in Banks County, 22-year-old Damion Jackson McCluskey was charged and arrested on November 7 by the CEACC after a tip from the NCMEC. An investigation into McCluskey's online activity resulted in the discovery of evidence confirming his possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.

 

All investigations are 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 trade of child sexual abuse material.

 

Several agencies, including the U.S. Army CID, Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Oconee Sheriff’s Office, Banks County Sheriff’s Office, Upson County Sheriff’s Office, Thomaston Police Department, and Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, assisted with each arrest and search.

McCluskey, Fleming, and Griffin Not pictured: CurtisPhoto byBanks County Sheriff's Office, Oconee Sheriff's Office and Liberty County Sheriff's Office

DEDICATION ANNOUNCED FOR HERITAGE MEMORIAL AT GGMP

 On Friday, December 1st, the City of Thomaston will hold a dedication for an event almost 20 years in the making. The Greatest Generation Heritage Memorial – namesake for the Greatest Generation Memorial Park – will be presented to the public. The event will begin at 11AM. All are welcome to attend. Back in 2004, City of Thomaston Mayor, Hays Arnold, began discussions for a community park to be constructed on the site of the former B.F. Goodrich property, along Highway 19. The park was to be dedicated to the men, women, and children who grew up in the Depression and weathered the many challenges brought on by the Second World War – our Greatest Generation, aptly named in Tom Brokaw’s 1998 book. The groundbreaking for the park was underway in August, 2009. A grand opening ceremony was held a year later in November, 2010. Park planning committee members like Mr. Albert Edmonson, a member of the Greatest Generation who was both a World War II Veteran and textile employee for the Martha Mills, was able to see years of careful planning finally come to fruition. With the park open, the committee knew a fitting tribute for the Greatest Generation would still need to be planned. On the day of groundbreaking, August 21, 2009, Mayor Arnold ardently spoke of the next phase for the park – the most important – The Memorial. “This phase will serve as a perpetual memorial to honor all our veterans, but especially those who fought on foreign shores in order that America could remain the bastion of hope for the entire free world. This Memorial phase will also serve as a memorial to honor our textile employees, without whom there would be no Thomaston as we know it. We would have remained mainly agrarian and a mule trading center. We certainly would not have appreciated the prosperity we have enjoyed as a result of Thomaston Mills setting the stage for industrial growth in our community.” Planning for this Memorial took shape when WLA Studio, a Landscape Architectural firm based in Athens, GA, was hired in September, 2020. Instead of planning a singular monument, the firm, led by Principal Landscape Architect Dale Jaeger, designed a Memorial Plaza filled with symbolic elements which honor Thomaston’s past as well as an interpretive exhibit which will feature historical narrative and photographs to remember the efforts of the local military and textile workforce. The memorial plaza is a celebration in local history. Symbolic features honor the story of our community as they endured the Second World War. Ornamental Peppermint Stick Peach trees link to the area’s past as peach orchards once occupied the present park grounds. The American Yellowwood trees are emblems reminiscent of families tying a yellow ribbon around an oak tree during times of war. The Chestnut Oak trees are large deciduous trees. These hardwood trees provide seating areas within the plaza with much needed shade in the summer. The block and linear benches feature art deco motifs, cast from architectural remnants which were rescued from the former Martha Mills. Four of the original artifacts are featured within the interpretive exhibit. The plaza serves as a haven for those seeking a quiet interlude to pause, reflect, and remember the sacrifices and great mettle of our Greatest Generation. There are many who made this Memorial possible. The City of Thomaston and Public Works Department were instrumental in their efforts to fund and build the plaza. Community Enterprises, Inc. has remained a strong supporter for the park, continuing with the Memorial, through a number of donations over the years. Special thanks also go to the Greatest Generation Memorial Park Planning Committee, WLA Studio, and the Thomaston-Upson Archives for assisting with historical narrative and photographs which will be displayed within the interpretive exhibit. The Greatest Generation Heritage Memorial will stand as a lasting tribute to the 3,000 locals who served in the armed forces during World War II, the thousands of textile employees of Thomaston Mills and Martha Mills who supplied the nation with desperately needed material in the form of tire cord and others, and every citizen who rationed, grew victory gardens, and sacrificed so our great country could help secure the Allied Victory in one of the most defining periods of history. Again, the dedication will be held at 11AM on Friday, December 1st at the Greatest Generation Memorial Park. Highway 19 at Goodrich Ave. in Thomaston.

TPD MO PED/SUV WRECK FRI.

 THOMASTON  POLICE/FIRE  AND  EMS  RESPONDED  TO    AN  SUV/MO  PED    WRECK  AT  NORTH  CHURCH  AND  R.  STREET  FRIDAY  AFTERNOON.  THE  PD  IDENTIFIED  THE  MO  PED  RIDER  AS  CLIFFORD  DOBBS  WHO  RECEIVED  A  LACARATION  OVER  HIS  LEFT  EYE  AND  COMPLAINED  OF  LEG  AND  BACK  INJURIES. THE PHOTO  ON  OUR  WEBSITE  INDICATES  THE  SUV  CRUSHED  THE  MO  PED.

THE  ACCIDENT  SCENE  WAS  TURNED  OVER  TO  POST   26  GA.  STATE  PATROL  FOR  INVESTIGATION. 

Nicholas “Niko” Wells is Georgia High School Football Daily's Round 1 Player of the Week

Upson-Lee sophomore quarterback Nicholas “Niko” Wells is Georgia High School Football Daily's Round 1 Player of the Week. The award was presented by Ted Langford, Marketing Director for GHSF Daily, on Wednesday, November 15, at the high school. With more than 400 high schools and thousands of players in the state, GHSF Daily editors review hours and hours of footage each week, searching for that stand-out player. For Round 1 of the playoffs, Langford said there were worthy contenders from Dalton High School, Statesboro High School, Benedictine, and Carrollton High School, but, in all conversations, one name continued to rise to the top, and that was Upson-Lee sophomore quarterback Niko Wells. According to Langford, it is very rare for a sophomore to receive this award and he believes this is the first time ever that a sophomore quarterback has received the GHSF Daily state player of the week award. In addition to Wells, Langford recognized a number of key UL players who contributed to Friday night's win over Savannah Country Day. When Wells spoke, he first thanked God for his talents and abilities and then stated that he could not do what he has to do as the quarterback without a great offensive line and key players in the right positions, all doing their jobs.

PIKE CO TIMES . COM REPORTS NEW SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

 ZEBULON - The Pike County Board of Education named Mr. Shane Williamson as the finalist for the Superintendent position at their meeting last night. Mr. Williamson currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Pulaski County Schools in Hawkinsville, GA.

The Board plans to hold their final vote on Mr. Williamson at their regularly scheduled meeting on December 12, 2023. Upon approval, he will begin his new role on January 1, 2024.

Here is Mr. Williamson's letter to the community:

"I am honored and elated that the Board of Education has selected me as the next Superintendent of Pike County Schools. My desire to contribute to the outstanding legacy of this school system begins today. Pike County Schools have a rich tradition of excellence in fostering positive relationships with students, educators, parents, and the community. As Superintendent, I am committed to maintaining the tradition of superior schools and enhancing the opportunities for growth. I am grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board of Education and enthusiastic about the opportunity to lead Pike County Schools. Together, we will continue to provide an exceptional learning environment for our students and uphold our core value of developing creative problem solvers in Pike County Schools.

T-U CHAMBER COMMERCE ANNUAL AWARDS

 

To:​Dave Piper​

Tue 11/14/2023 11:21 PM

New Business of the Year - M&P Tactical 

Small Business of the Year - Highline of Thomaston

Executive of the Year - Jeff Tarrant

Here’s Looking at You - Flint Rose Studio 

Unity of the Community - Hometown Nutrition 

Outstanding Community Service - Phil Hancock

Lifetime Achievement Award- Anthony South

TPD CHIEF MIKE RICHARDSON PRESENTED THE CHAMBER'S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

 I have the privilege of presenting this year’s Thomaston-Upson Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award. This year’s recipient has lived in the Thomaston–Upson County community since he was 2 years old. He met his wife, of 53 years, while attending grade school and they have three children, who are married with families that all live, work and own businesses in Thomaston–Upson County. Over the last 50 years, he has started, owned and operated 8 businesses in the local community, many of which have been members of the Chamber of Commerce and still are. Some include:

SouthTel Communications – provides phone services to local and surrounding business throughout the State. Now owned and operated by his son Steven.

Thomaston Toll – first company to sell discounted long-distance phone service in Thomaston-Upson County

South Electric – which provided electrical instillation on many residential properties and local business with in the community.

SOS Water Systems – serving over 600 residents in Thomaston-Upson County.

AS Rental – Providing and servicing, at one time, over 70 residential properties in the community.

Fantastic Sam’s (Now Hair Trends and current Chamber member) – first hair salon franchise in Thomaston-Upson County.

Most notable and widely recognized business is SSS Farms (current Chamber member) – operated with his son, Marcus South:

· Largest Cattle Operation in Upson County – produces of 225 calves per year.

· Largest poultry operation in Upson County.

· Only farm in Upson County with a pivot irrigation system.

· Only U-pick strawberry farm in the county, should be noted that they have AMAZING strawberry ice-cream too.

· Produces bailage that has won State awards for the quality of the bailage.

He was recognized and awarded “Georgia Cattlemen Producer of the Year” along with his son Marcus in 2016.

Beside his many business adventures this years recipient has been involved in various civic and faith based organizations in our community

· He was an active member of the Thomaston Church of God for nearly 50 years where he served as the Chairman of the Building Committee.

· He has been and still is an active member of the Thomaston-Upson Kiwanis International for over 20+ years.

· He is currently a member and attends 1st Baptist Church in Thomaston where he has served on the Deacon Board and has been a member of the Church maintenance team.

· He is a member of the Upson County Georgia Farm Bureau and serves on the Farm Bureau Board.

· He has served as a County Commissioner.

This year’s recipient has lived and served the Thomaston-Upson County community for 70 years of his life. Throughout this time, he has in one way or more contributed to the success of our community through economic growth, providing jobs, providing housing, and by serving in various roles in civic and faith-based organizations in Thomaston and Upson County. Additionally, he is a man of faith, integrity and service that is performed with genuine compassion and love for his family and his community.

On a personal note, I have known and been personal friends with this year’s recipient and his family for nearly 27 years. In 1998 he kept me employed after a short an unsuccessful career selling insurance. I’m sure he missed me as an expert painter but I decided to move on to a career in Law Enforcement.

It gives me great honor to announce this year’s Chamber of Commerce Life Time Achievement Award recipient, my good friend, Mr. Anthony South.

Thomaston Kiwanis Club honors Mr. Lynwood Pressley

The Thomaston Kiwanis Club honored Mr. Lynwood Pressley during this week’s meeting.

Lynwood has been a Kiwanian for almost 44 years. He was employed by Thomaston Mills for 45 years, where he quickly became an integral part of daily operations.  He served as Thomaston Kiwanis Club President from 1983-1984 and District Lt. Governor a few years later. 

 

Lynwood has been an active member of First Baptist Church in Thomaston for 54 years. We were happy to welcome four generations of the Pressley family to our meeting yesterday.

 

Thank you to Lynwood for his many years of selfless service to both our community and our club!

Upson-Lee Middle School students in Georgia’s REACH Scholarship Program

On Friday, November 10, five Upson-Lee Middle School students and their families participated in a signing ceremony signifying their commitment to meet or exceed the rigorous requirements outlined in Georgia’s REACH Scholarship Program. REACH Georgia’s mission is to ensure that Georgia’s academically promising students have the academic, social, and financial support needed to graduate from high school, access college, and achieve postsecondary success. Throughout 4 years of high school, REACH Scholars must maintain a 2.5 HOPE Calculated GPA and maintain good behavior and good attendance. Scholars who successfully complete the program and graduate from high school are awarded a $10,000 scholarship to be used at a HOPE-eligible University System of Georgia, Technical College System of Georgia, or private postsecondary institution. Congratulations to the 2023-24 Thomaston-Upson REACH Scholars: Daisy Molina, Catherine Portwood, Madelynn Taylor, Baleigh Wesley, and Kylee Williams. The ULMS REACH Scholar Program is coordinated by Mrs. Ashley Price, ULMS Counselor. Presenting students with their symbolic checks were TU Board of Education members Mrs. Angeline McGill and Mr. Scott Roberts and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Larry Derico.

TPD WORKING TWO BIZ BURGLARIES

 THOMASTON  POLICE   INVESTIGATING  A  BURGLARY  AT  THE  VALERO  CONVIENCE  STORE  1030  BARNESVILLE  STREET  NOVEMBER    6TH  -  AFTER  A  CAR  CRASHED  INTO  THE  FRONT  OF  THE  STORE.  SOMEONE   BROKE   THROUGH   THE  REPAIRS OVERNIGHT      AND  ENTERED  THE  STORE.  NO  MONEY  REPORTED  MISSING  BUT  A  MESS  BEHIND  THE  COUNTER  AND   BLUNT  WRAPS  WERE SCATTERED.

BURGLARY  REPORT  AT  THE  SONIC   DRIVE-IN   19  NORTH.  A  TOOL  WAS  APPARENTLY  USED  TO  PRY  TWO  DOORS  TO  ENTER. $914  MISSING  FROM  A  SAFE.  ANOTHER  SONIC  IN  PHOENIX  CITY,  ALABAMA  WAS  ALSO  BURGLARIZED  THE  SAME  NIGHT.

UPSON CO SEX OFFENDER REGISTRATION

 Sex Offender Registration

In Upson County there are 141 individuals required by Georgia State law to register as sex offenders. 23 of those are currently incarcerated. This leaves 118 sex offenders who are mandated to register with the Upson County Sheriff’s Office annually. Georgia law requires registered sex offenders to report their address, place of employment, vehicle driven and other pertinent information to the Sheriff’s Office of the county in which they reside each year or 72 hours prior to relocating. We verify this information at the time of their initial registration and again each year on their date of their subsequent  registration. We also spot check for verification throughout the year.

Between late October and early November we conducted a verification investigation and confirmed that 117 of Upson’s offenders are in compliance with state law. We have one case under review and expect resolution in the coming days.

It is our desire to keep all of Upson safe. You may visit the sex offender list for Upson County at https://www.upsoncountyga.org/464/Office-of-the-Sheriff

 

Dan Kilgore, Sheriff

November 13, 2023

 

RUSS HEAD FREE PROGRAM AT THE RITZ

   TRAVEL  CONNECTION  TOUR  GUIDE  RUSS HEAD   WILL  HOLD  A   BOOK   SIGNING  AND   FREE   PROGRAM,  THURSDAY  NOVEMBER  16TH  AT  THE  RITZ  THEATRE  DOWNTOWN  THOMASTON.   HE  WILL  DO  A  TALK  ON  HIS  BOOK--SCHOLAR  GYPSY--A  CHRISTIAN  JOURNEY  DOWN  THE  ROAD  LESS  TRAVELED--THAT  RECOUNTS  HIS  OVER   300  TOURS.  REFRESHMENTS  WILL  BE  SERVED.  DOORS  OPEN  AT   6  PROGRAM  AT   7.

Upson-Lee High School senior Jackson Blakely Signed to play baseball at Georgia Tech!

Congratulations to Upson-Lee High School senior Jackson Blakely who signed today to play baseball at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). Blakely will be trading in his UL Knights uniform for the blue and gold of GA Tech's RamblinWreck baseball following his graduation from Upson-Lee High School in May 2024. According to ULHS Head Baseball Coach Eddie Peyton, in his past two seasons at UL, Blakely has pitched 111 innings with a 0.964 ERA with 214 strike outs. He also had 74 hits, 23 doubles, 4 homers, and 3 triples. He was awarded First Team All-Region his freshman and sophomore years as well as Region Player of the Year his junior year, while maintaining an impressive 4.0 GPA in the classroom.

BIG GAMES ON FUN 101 THIS WEEKEND

 BIG  FOOTBALL  WEEKEND  ON  FUN  101  FM.  FRIDAY  NIGHT  UPSON-LEE  HOSTS  SAVANNAH  COUNTRY  DAY  IN  THE  PLAY-OFFS.

SATURDAY  GA.  TECH-CLEMSON  AT  NOON  AND  UGA  HOSTS OLE  MISS  AT  7PM  .  THE   DAWGS  PREGAME  SHOW  WILL  AIR   FOLLOWING  THE  YELLOW  JACKETS  AND  TIGERS  GAME.

THOMASTON/UPSON RECREATION ISSUES

    COUNTY  MANAGER JASON  TINSLEY  TOLD   101  NEWS  HE  RECEIVED  A  LIST  OF  REQUESTS  FOR  THE  RECREATION  DEPARTMENT  FROM  THE  THOMASTON  CITY  COUNCIL  WEDNESDAY  AND  WILL  FOWARD  IT  TO  THE   UPSON   BOARD OF  COMMISSIONERS. THE CITY  COUNCIL  PARED  BACK  SOME     FUNDING   ON JOINT  FUNDING   FOR  REC  OVER  SEVERAL  ISSUES  THIS  YEAR  BUT  DISCUSSED   2024  FUNDING  AT  A   BUDGET  WORK  SESSION  NOVEMBER   3.  RECREATION  IS A  JOINT  PROGRAM  BUT  ITS  OPERATED  BY  THE  COUNTY.  

ACCORDING  TO  CITY  MANAGER  RUSSELL  THOMPSON,  

AMONG  THE  CITY  COUNCIL'S  REC  REQUESTS -- A  PUBLICIZED  SET OF  OFFICE  HOURS  FOR  THE  DIRECTOR  AND  HOW  TO  SCHEDULE  AN  APPOINTMENT  WITH  HER. COUNCIL  WANTS  NUMBERS  OF  REC  PARTICIPANTS  IN   2019  PLUS  HOW  MANY  DURING   THE  PAST  CALENDAR  YEAR.  COUNCIL   ALSO  WANTS  A  REC  ADVISORY  COMMITTEE  APPOINTED   WITH  ONE  MEMBER  FROM  EACH  COUNCIL  DISTRICT  AND  EACH  COMMISSION  DISTRICT--A  COMMITTEE  TO  MEET  ONCE  A  MONTH  AND    TO   BE  PAID  $100  PER  MEETING  FROM  THE  REC  BUDGET.  THE  REC  COMMISSION  SHOULD  HAVE  A  REPORT  AT  EACH   OF  THE  QUARTERLY  JOINT  PROJECTS  MEETING OF  COUNCIL  AND  COMMISSION.  

COUNCIL ALSO   WISHES  TO  KNOW  WHETHER OR NOT  THE  SENIOR  CENTER  RENTS  SPACE  FOR  EVENTS  AND  IF SO  THE  COST.  IN  A      FOLLOW-UP   MEMO  TO  THE  CITY  MANAGER , COUNTY  MANAGER  TINSLEY  SAID  IT  DOES NOT  SEEM  LOGICAL  TO  HAVE  EQUAL  REPRESENTATION ON A  BOARD  IF  FUNDING/OR  PARTICIPATION  IS  NOT  EQUAL.

THOMASTON MAYOR STALLINGS WINS

 CITY OF  THOMASTON  MAYOR  J.D.  STALLINGS  WAS  REELECTED  BY  133  VOTES  OVER  CHALLENGER  DR.   MONEIKA   IVEY  IN  TUESDAY'S  ELECTION.  MAYOR  STALLINGS  RECEIVED  543  VOTES  AND  DR.  IVEY  410  VOTES.

THE  CONTINUATION  OF  THE  COUNTY  WIDE  TRANSPORTATION  SPLOST  WAS  APPROVED  BY  338  VOTES,  1010  TO  672.

GRIFFIN MAYOR HOLLBERG WINS

 Mayor-

Hollberg 1354 wins  54.9%

Amin  516

Jones  596

2nd Dist- city seat

Rosa Curtis 207- wins

4th Dist city seat- 

Brad Evans 320-  wins

Genie Acuda  147

ESplsot yes- 2422 wins

            no-  1909       

GORDON STATE STEM DEGREES

 Gordon State College Creates Highlanders Scholars Program to Help Underrepresented Students Pursue STEM Degrees

Financial support from the Cadence Bank Foundation, Georgia Power Foundation and Joseph W. Evans helped GSC create a dual-acceptance partnership program with Georgia Tech.

Barnesville, Ga., November 7, 2023 – Gordon State College (GSC) announced today that it received a total gift of $500,000 from the Cadence Bank Foundation; Georgia Power Foundation; and Joseph W. Evans, a member of the Cadence Bank board of directors, to establish the Highlanders Scholars Program (HSP). The HSP is a regional access experience that will identify, support and nurture 14 Associate in Science graduates who will continue their studies at Georgia Tech starting their junior year.

The HSP provides an essential entry point into higher education for talented scholars from the College's 14-county primary service region seeking a local start to their engineering pathway. Candidates will be nominated yearly in January with a 14-scholar cohort announced each March.

A recent study commissioned by the Jack Kent Cook Foundation shows that students who complete associate degree programs and transfer to selective institutions have equal-to-higher graduation rates versus students who either enrolled directly from high school or transferred from other four-year institutions.

“We at Gordon State College are thrilled to lead this project, which will provide engineering education to those who have been historically underrepresented in STEM majors. We deeply appreciate the work of the Cadence Bank Foundation, Georgia Power Foundation and especially Joe Evans for funding a project that will transform lives,” said GSC Interim President, Donald J. Green. “We look forward to expanding this program in the future and providing more talent to grow Georgia’s economy.”

Each HSP scholar will receive an award covering 100% of tuition, including room and board, while enrolled at GSC. They will attend a mandatory pre-freshman and a six-week summer bridge program, where they will prepare for the new expectations and requirements of college courses while in a close-knit peer group. The scholars will also conduct a research internship focused on solving a local issue within GSC’s 14-county primary service region.

“More than 140 years ago, our company was developed by neighbors helping neighbors, and we’re proud to carry on this strong legacy of community support,” said Dan Rollins, chairman and CEO of Cadence Bank. “With this gift, the bank aims to play a significant role in enhancing Gordon State College's reputation as a leading educational institution and fostering a more diverse and inclusive STEM workforce.”

Rita Breen, executive director of the Georgia Power Foundation, said that by investing in the HSP, they are empowering the future workforce in the state.

“We are excited to partner with Gordon State College to increase the number of underrepresented students studying in STEM disciplines,” Breen said.

A Georgia Tech faculty mentor will be paired with each scholar during the first two years at GSC and will ultimately become their faculty advisor upon transferring to the institute.

To learn more about the Highlanders Scholars Program, visit GordonState.edu.

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The Travon Walker Foundation distributed 444 Thanksgiving feast boxes to families in Thomaston, GA.

 

TIX INFO FOR U-L PLAYOFF GAME

 Important information for Friday Night's UL Knights Football Game - Round 1 of the State Playoffs:

*  There will be no cash ticket sales at the gates.

*  Only GoFan tickets will be accepted. Tickets should be purchased online. One of the tables at the                                  

    main gate will allow for credit card ticket sales.

*  No passes will be accepted for GHSA playoff games other than GHSA Coaches and Officials Passes. No Silver Card Passes, no GOAL Card Passes, no TU Employee ID Passes.

*  Parking passes behind the home side will still be honored, but everyone in the car must have a GoFan ticket.

*  Ticket prices for Round 1 are $8.00 per ticket.

Please see the link below for GoFan tickets: https://gofan.co/event/1217287?schoolId=GA5360

Tidal Wave Expands

THOMASTON, Ga. — Tidal Wave Auto Spa announced in a press release the company has expanded their footprint to 200 locations this week with the opening of three-brand new washes in Greenville, North Carolina; Winchester, Kentucky; and Kinston, North Carolina.

This major milestone comes after several busy months of openings for the company, with 26 brand-new locations opened since August.

 

“This is an exciting time to be part of the Tidal Wave family,” said founder and CEO Scott Blackstock. “Our company has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years and hitting 200 locations is a huge milestone worth celebrating. Each new location we open requires a significant amount of teamwork every step of the way, and I am incredibly proud of our team for their hard work and dedication that made reaching this milestone possible. Bringing our exceptional carwash experience to more people is what it is all about, and we are proud to serve more communities than ever before at each of our 200 locations.”

 

To celebrate the grand opening of three new locations this week, Tidal Wave is offering seven days of free carwashes at the new locations from Oct. 25 through Nov. 1.

 

This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners in-and-around these communities to experience Tidal Wave’s premium wash option, Graph-X4, at no cost.

 

Additionally, any new customer that joins a Clean Club unlimited wash membership plan during the grand opening week will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for $9.97.

 

The three new locations can be found at:

102 E Arlington Blvd., Greenville, NC 27858;

460 Bullion Blvd., Winchester, KY 40391; and

4468 W Vernon Ave., Kinston, NC 28504.

 

Tidal Wave offers single wash options and unlimited wash memberships to fit any budget, and customers planning to wash more than once a month can save money by joining any of Tidal Wave’s Clean Club unlimited wash membership options.

 

Clean Club members can wash at any Tidal Wave location every day of the month for one convenient monthly payment – plus, save time with exclusive club member wash lanes.

 

Tidal Wave also offers family plans for individuals and families that need to wash multiple vehicles, and fleet plans that can be customized to fit a company’s unique wash needs.

 

Tidal Wave Auto Spa was founded in 1999 by Scott and Hope Blackstock in Thomaston, Georgia.

 

The company has 200 locations operating in 23 states across the South, Midwest and Northern United States.