Griffin Water Tank Break

The city water tank in Griffin has cracked and is losing its water.

City officials say the tank cracked on Wednesday afternoon and they will not be able to fix it until all of the water is drained out.

 

A nearby business owner told the city that he heard an explosion sound and began to see water coming out of the tank.

 

The water is draining at a rate of about four feet per hour, meaning it will continue draining for several hours. It is estimated to be draining for at least the next seven hours.

 

The water is draining into a creek around the cemetery.

 

Local streets around the water tank are shut down.

 

City officials want to reassure neighbors that no one will see an increase in their water bill.

 

There is no word on what led to the water tank cracking.

Barnesville Man Arrested For Murder

GBI Agents continue to investigate after charging Charkinta Ogletree age 31, of Barnesville, with Felony Murder and Aggravated Assault.

Lamar County Deputies responded to a call at 8:10 a.m. about a man, later identified as Charles Ogletree, age 64, who was shot and later died on scene. When deputies arrived, they took Charkinta Ogletree into custody. The Lamar County Sheriff’s Office requested the GBI to investigate the shooting incident that occurred in the 700 block Johnstonville Road.

 

The preliminary investigation indicates Charkinta shot Charles, his father, during a dispute.

 

Charkinta Ogletree is currently booked at the Lamar County Jail.

 

According to Lamar County Sheriff's Office records, Ogletree has been arrested on multiple charges including aggravated assault, possession of a firearm or knife during commission of or attempt to commit a felony, pointing or aiming a gun at another, and theft by taking over the last 18 months.

WCGB and ULHS Recognize Student Achievement

Upson-Lee High School and West Central Georgia Bank, a Partner In Education with the Thomaston-Upson School System, have proudly recognized GOAL Card recipients. These students earned a grade of “A” at ULHS in every course during the first semester of the 2023-2024 school year.

Now in its 32nd year, the West Central Georgia Bank GOAL Card program was implemented in support of the new Thomaston-Upson School System and in support of academic achievement for all Upson-Lee High School students. West Central Georgia Bank provides these all “A” students with a student identification GOAL card, which provides them free admission to all ULHS regular home athletic events for an entire semester.

 

ULHS Principal Mr. Ricky English stated, “The administrators, faculty, and staff at Upson-Lee High School would like to thank Mr. Eddie Rogers for his continued support of this important educational achievement program. The West Central Georgia Bank GOAL Card is the longest running recognition program in the Thomaston-Upson School System, having been implemented in 1992, the year that Upson-Lee High School opened its doors. I want to congratulate these young people for their outstanding academic accomplishments.”

 

In addition to free admission to ULHS athletic events, GOAL Card holders receive special offers and/or discounts from a variety of local businesses, which are printed on the back of the GOAL Card. West Central Georgia Bank and ULHS would like to thank these businesses for their participation in the GOAL program and for their commitment to quality education in our local public school system: Aviano’s, Belk of Thomaston, French Kiss Boutique, Game Castle, Hometown Nutrition, La Fiesta, Lilly Jane Boutique, Mac’s Grill, Serendipity, Slices Pizzeria, The Apple Cart Bakery & Market, The Country Cupboard, and Wireless Connections. Students are pictured with ULHS Principal Mr. Ricky English and West Central Georgia Bank Assistant Vice-President Mr. Kyle Stonecipher.

West Central Georgia Bank Assistant Vice-President Mr. Kyle Stonecipher (left) presents a check for the GOAL Card program to ULHS Principal Ricky English. The check sponsors GOAL Card students’ free entry into all regular season athletic events during the entire semester. WCGB and ULHS recognized over 200 students for having all As during the first semester of the 2023-24 school year.

Holmes New Head Coach Pike County Football

Pike county high school has a new head football coach, Stephen Holmes who took Manchester high school to the state championship game this past season.

 

Coach Holmes had been an assistant coach at Pike county and his family already lives in Pike County. 

 

URMC Celebrates Nocipher Heartbeat

 

CONGRATS UPSON SO DEPUTY RENEE RAINES

 UPSON  COUNTY  SHERIFF  DAN  KILGORE  CONGRATULATES  COURT  SERVICES   DEPUTY  RENEE  RAINES  FOR  OUTSTANDING  SERVICE    AFTER  SHE    RETIRED  THURSDAY  AFTER  28  YEARS    WITH  THE  S.O.   THE  SHERIFF  HAS  ASSIGNED  LT.  RONNIE COCHRAN  TO  COURT  SERVICES.

T-U REC SIGNUP

 THOMASTON-UPSON  RECREATION  DEPARTMENT  ANNOUNCES  SOCCER  REGISTRATION  ENDS    FRIDAY  JAN.  26 .  IN-PERSON  SIGN-UP  TILL  8;30PM  AT  THE  CIVIC  CENTER -- ON  LINE  TILL   11;59PM.

BASEBALL  , T-BALL  REGISTRATION  OPEN  TILL  FEB.  9TH,  SOFTBALL  REGISTRATION  OPEN  TILL   JAN.   30TH. 

FOR  DETAILS  CALL  THE  CIVIC  CENTER  AT  706-647-9691.

URMC Job Fair

ALL COURT APPEALS DENIED FOR JFM TRUCKING

 UPSON  COUNTY  MANAGER  JASON  TINSLEY  REPORTS  ALL  COURT  APPEALS  HAVE  BEEN  DENIED  IN  A  LAW  SUIT  JAMES  FORTNER  FILED  AGAINST  PLANNING  DIRECTOR  DOUG  CURRIER  AND  THE  COUNTY--AND    CODE  ENFORCMENT   HAS  FILED   23  CITATIONS   AGAINST  JFM  TRUCKING  COMPANY  AT   1409  COUNTY  ROAD.   THE  CHARGES  WILL  BE  ON  THE  DOCKET  IN  UPSON  MAGISTRATE  COURT  IN  A   COUPLE  OF  WEEKS. 

THE  UPSON COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  DENIED  A  REZONING  FOR  THE  BUSINESS--THAT  HAS  TURNED  INTO  A  JUNK YARD  FOR  BIG  RIGS--A  SITE  THE  COUNTY  WANTS  CLEANED-UP. THERE  IS  A  REPORT  THAT FORTNER  HAS  FOUND  ANOTHER LOCATION  FOR  JFM  TRUCKING. 

GORDON STATE COLLEGE DEPART OF NURSING ACCREDITATION REVIEW

 PUBLIC NOTICE OF UPCOMING ACCREDITATION REVIEW VISIT BY THE ACCREDITATION COMMISSION FOR EDUCATION IN NURSING (ACEN) The Gordon State College Department of Nursing and Health Sciences wishes to announce that it will host a site visit for continuing accreditation of its Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program and its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). You are invited to meet with the site visit team and share your comments about the program in person at a meeting scheduled at 3:30 pm on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, in The Collaborative Learning Room Number 123 of the Nursing and Allied Health Sciences building located at 419 College Drive, Barnesville, GA 30204. Written comments are also welcome and should be submitted directly to: Dr. Kathy Chappell, Chief Executive Officer Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing 3390 Peachtree Road Northeast, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326 Or email: kchappell@acenursing.org All written comments should be received by the ACEN by February 16, 2024.

UPSON CO COM WILDER NOT RUNNING AGAIN

 UPSON  COUNTY  FIRST  DISTRICT  COMMISSIONER  LORENZO  WILDER  MADE  IT  OFFICIAL  AT  TUESDAY'S  MEETING--HE  WILL  NOT  SEEK  ANOTHER  FOUR  YEAR  TERM.  THE  OTHER BOARD MEMBERS  HAVE   REPORTEDLY  BEEN  ENCOURAGING  HIM  TO  RUN  AGAIN  BUT  AT  THE  CLOSE  OF  THE  MEETING--HE  MADE  IT  OFFICIAL.  WE  HAVE  BEEN  TOLD   HE   WOULD  LIKE  TO DO MORE  TRAVELING  AND  WORK  ON  OTHER  PROJECTS--BUT  HE STATED  TUESDAY--HE  PLANS  TO  BE  ENGAGED IN  COUNTY  BUSINESS  FOR  THE  REMAINDER  OF  HIS  TERM  IN  2024.

THERE  HAVE  BEEN  REPORTS--LINCOLN  PARK  CITIZENS   GROUP    PRESIDENT  CHRIS  BIGGS  IS  INTERESTED  IN  THE  SE

JULES PASSMORE U-L STAR STUDENT

Miss Julian Sloan (Jules) Passmore, a senior at Upson-Lee High School, has been named 2024 PAGE STAR Student for the Thomaston-Upson School System. The announcement was made Tuesday, January 23, by Mr. Doyle Allen at the Thomaston Kiwanis Club meeting. Thomaston Kiwanis is the local STAR program sponsor, and Allen is the STAR program coordinator for the service club. Jules is the daughter of Scott Passmore and Sloan and Timothy Ledbetter.

Passmore selected ULHS teacher Mrs. Amanda Miller as the 2024 STAR Teacher. Miller taught Chemistry and AP Biology to Passmore and serves as the academic advisor to the Science Olympiad Team, which Passmore leads. In addition to being selected 2023-24 Miss Upson-Lee High School by her peers, Jules is a member of National Honor Society, Beta Club, Student Council, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She leads the Science Olympiad and Academic Team, is editor-in-chief of the ULHS newspaper and a yearbook editor. She plays the baritone saxophone and has been in the UL Band since 6th grade. She described Mrs. Miller as being a wonderful person and a wonderful teacher, charismatic, and friendly. Amanda Miller, an analytical chemist turned teacher, described Jules as generous, persistent, dedicated, and tenacious. She said Jules has a good work ethic, sets goals, and pushes forward until those goals are reached. This is Miller’s first time being chosen as STAR Teacher, and she described the experience as humbling, exciting, and fun. 

 

STAR Student is the student with the highest score in one sitting of the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) taken through the November test date of his or her senior year. STAR Student must also be in the top 10 percent of his or her class based on grade point average. STAR Teacher, chosen by the STAR Student, is the teacher who has made the most significant contribution to the student’s scholastic development.

 

The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) Program was created to focus public attention on Georgia's outstanding students and the teachers who have been most instrumental in their academic development. It is administered and promoted by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) Foundation. Since its inception in 1958, the STAR Program has honored more than 29,500 high school seniors who have in turn chosen their STAR teachers to share in this recognition. Upson-Lee High School and the Thomaston-Upson School System are very appreciative of the support given to the local STAR program by the Thomaston Kiwanis Club.

Homer Daniel Named Assistant Police Chief For Griffin Police Department

City Manager Jessica O’Connor has named Homer Daniel as the Assistant Police Chief for the Griffin Police Department.

Chief Daniel has served the City of Griffin Police Department for thirty-nine years- beginning as a Uniform Patrol Officer in 1984 and working as a Narcotics Officer, Criminal Investigator, and School Resource Officer before becoming Sergeant in 1997, Lieutenant in 1999, and Captain in 2003. “My extensive background and community-oriented approach serve as an asset to the City of Griffin,” said Chief Daniel. “My leadership and training experiences have allowed me to understand law enforcement from different perspectives and develop life-long impacts to better my community.” The Assistant Police Chief is responsible for the day-to-day operations and leadership of the Uniform Patrol Division and the Criminal Investigation Division.

 

“This year, the Griffin Police Department will work to engage the community, particularly the youth, through relationship building with the department to reduce violent crime in the City of Griffin and protect and serve citizens with the leadership and support of both Police Chief Sampson and Assistant Police Chief Daniel,” said Jessica O’Connor, City Manager. “I am honored to have Chief Daniel leading this effort. His vast dedication and love for the City of Griffin, our citizens, and the men and women in blue is commendable. Together, we are shaping the Griffin Police Department and continuing to be a model of excellence- a safe, well-planned community for all.”

 

Chief Daniel is a member of the Georgia Peace Officers Association, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, the AZ Kelsey Foundation, and the Griffin-Spalding County Youth Baseball Coaching Association. Chief Daniel serves as a Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Deacon and founded the Higher Calling Mentoring Program for at-risk youth. Chief Daniel was awarded the Governor’s Honors Award- Life Saving Award in 2003, the AZ Kelsey Foundation Leadership Award in 2010, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in 2013. Chief Daniel has been married to Tammy Daniel for thirty-eight years and has three children and three grandchildren.

LAMAR CO MAN BURNED DOWN HOUSES IN UPSON

Georgian Pleads Guilty to Making Death Threats Against Public Officials

A Middle Georgia resident with a criminal history of arson and sending death threats pleaded guilty to mailing threatening communications in federal court today.

Travis Leroy Ball, 56, of Barnesville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of mailing threatening communications before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Jan. 19. Ball faces a maximum of five years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing will be determined by the Court. Ball is not eligible for parole.

 

“Death threats against public officials are taken extremely seriously by our office and will result in prison time,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Keeping people safe is the highest priority of our office and our law enforcement partners; these types of threats cannot and will not be tolerated.”

 

“Threats against public servants are not only illegal, but also a threat against our democratic process,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “While Mr. Ball’s continued criminal conduct clearly illustrates his lack of concern and compassion for others, it also illustrates his unwillingness to be rehabilitated. Hopefully, this additional sentence will finally send the message that the FBI will not tolerate his hate fueled hoaxes and will continue to hold him accountable.”

 

According to court documents, the FBI obtained a letter on March 10, 2023, addressed to U.S. District Court Judge Marc T. Treadwell in which the writer was purporting to be a U.S. Secret Service agent who investigated one of the defendant’s prior cases. In the letter—later determined to be written by the Ball—the writer demanded that the charge in Ball’s most recent federal case be dismissed, and he be let out of federal custody.

 

Ball—using the name of a former cell mate—also wrote letters to the U.S. District Court in Valdosta, Georgia, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, D.C., in March and May 2023 respectively, threatening to kill employees and their families, as well as burn down property.

 

In addition, Ball wrote a letter to the Upson County Sheriff’s Office in July 2023, purporting to be an FBI agent working on a top-secret case and demanded that Ball’s photos and personal information be removed and deleted from jail records.

 

The FBI compared the letters, handwriting, letterhead, postage stamps, verbiage and the “INMATE MAIL” stamp on each letter and determined that Ball wrote the letters while in custody. The defendant’s DNA was compared against the letters sent to the U.S. Courthouse in Valdosta and the letter impersonating a U.S. Secret Service Agent sent to U.S. District Chief Judge Treadwell. The results confirmed Ball’s DNA on both letters. Officers found the writing material and stamps in Ball’s cell. For more information about Ball’s prior convictions for threats, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/georgia-man-sentenced-federal- prison-threats-against-president.

 

The case was investigated by FBI with assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Services, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.

 

Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government.

Man Shot in Griffin

On January 18th 2024 shortly after 1715 hours Griffin Police were called to the 1400 Block of Baker St in reference to a person shot call. Once on scene an adult male victim was found suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. First responders rendered first aid and the male was transported to Spalding Regional for treatment. At this time the victim’s name has not been released. Preliminary investigations lead police to think this was a random act and are actively seeking the publics assistance in providing additional information. Anyone with further information is asked to contact Sgt Howard at thoward@cityofgriffin.com or 770.229.6452.

January Program Upson Historical Society

Date: Monday, January 22, 2024

Time: 7 p.m.

Place: The Thomaston-Upson Archives Basement

301 South Center Street, Thomaston, GA 30286

The Upson Historical Society is presenting a program on the 1975 sesquicentennial that

celebrated Upson County’s 150th birthday. This program will be led by Gary Gill and Dave Piper.

The program will feature unique images from the celebration in 1975, so if you attended that

event, you should definitely attend this program! If you didn’t attend the sesquicentennial, you

certainly don’t want to miss this presentation where you’ll learn about the record-breaking cake,

parade through downtown, and other fun events that took place over the course of one April

weekend in 1975.

UPSON SHERIFF AND CLERK OF COURT WARNING

 FROM THE OFFICE of SHERIFF DAN KILGORE AND SUPERIOR COURT CLERK TERESA MEIER

 

There is a jury scam going around.  Someone impersonating a Sheriff’s Deputy is calling people claiming that they have a bench warrant against them for failure to appear for jury duty.  He then tells the person that they can purge themselves from the bench warrant by purchasing a prepaid debit card and sending it to him.  If you receive one of these phone calls please hang up. No one from the Sheriff’s Office or the Clerk’s Office will call you and ask you for money.  Never give your personal information to anyone over the phone and please, NEVER buy a prepaid debit card to send to a stranger.

LAMAR COUNTY GEFA LOAN CONTROVERSY

 WALTER  GEIGER OF  THE  BARNESVILLE  HERALD - GAZETTE  HAS  BEEN  FOLLOWING  THE  CONTROVERSY  INVOLVING  A $27  MILLION  STATE  LOAN  IN  2014  TO  THE  LAMAR  COUNTY  REGIONAL  SOLID  WASTE AUTHORITY  FOR  A  WASTE  TO  FUEL  PROJECT  AT  THE LANDFILL  THAT'S  NOW  MORE  THAN 6  YEARS  PAST  ITS  ORIGINAL  COMPLETION  DATE  WITH  LOAN  REPAYMENTS  STARTING  IN  APRIL.  ITS  A  DEVELOPMENT  THAT  HAS  STIRRED  COMMUNITY  CONTROVERSY  AND  NOW  THE  FOX  FIVE  I-TEAM  IS  INVESTIGATING.

AT  TUESDAY'S  MEETING   LAMAR  COUNTY   COMMISSIONER  JASON  LOVETT  STATED  HE   AND  FELLOW  COMMISSIONER  ASHLEY  GILLES  HAVE  BEEN  TALKING  TO  THE  FBI   FOR  MONTHS  AND  DURING  THE  MEETING  WERE  SERVED  WITH PAPERS  IN  A  LAWSUIT  FILED  BY  THE LANDFILL  AUTHORITY'S   ATTORNEY   WANTING    INFO    ABOUT  THEIR  CONTACT WITH  THE  FEDS. 

COMMISSIONER  LOVETT  STATED  THOSE  RECORDS  ARE  NOT  SUBJECT  TO  OPEN  RECORDS  DISCLOSURE.

THOMASTON FIRE CHIEF HARRIS RETIRES

 AFTER    ALMOST    40   YEARS  OF  SERVICE  TO  THE  THOMASTON  FIRE  DEPARTMENT,  FIRE  CHIEF  RENEE  HARRIS  WAS  HONORED  AT  A  RETIREMENT  LUNCHEON--WEDNESDAY  AND  GOT  A  SEND   OFF  FROM  UNITS  OF  THE  FIRE  DEPARTMENT  AND  POLICE  DEPARTMENT  ROLLING  THROUGH  DOWNTOWN  WITH   SIRENS  AND  EMERGENCY  LIGHTS  ACTIVATED.

FIRE  CHIEF  HARRIS  IS  TURNING OVER  OPERATIONS  TO  THE  NEW  CHIEF  LT.  SHANE  FOSTER--AND  SHE  LISTED  SOME  OF  THE  HIGHLIGHTS  OF  HER  CAREER  THAT  AIRED  ON   101.1  NEWS.  THE  FIRST  FEMALE  FIRE-FIGHTER  TO  SERVE  IN  THOMASTON.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE IN BARNESVILLE

 FIRST   RED  CROSS   BLOOD  DRIVE  OF  2024  AT   THE  BARNESVILLE  FIRST  UNITED METHODIST  CHURCH,  THOMASTON  STREET IN  BARNESVILLE,  THURSDAY  JANUARY  25TH  1  TO  6PM.  ALL  DONORS   GET  HOMEMADE  COOKIES  AND  ARE  ENTERED   FOR  CHANGE  TO  WIN  A  TRIP  FOR  TWO  TO  THE  SUPER  BOWL  IN LAS  VEGAS.   THE  U.S.  IS  CURRENTLY  IN  AN  EMERGENCY  BLOOD  SHORTAGE--MAKE  AN  APPOINTMENT  TO  GIVE  AT  1-800-RED CROSS OR  REDCROSSBLOOD. ORG.  

Driver killed in Spalding County crash

A driver was killed in Spalding County, Georgia State Patrol said, after another car ran a red light and hit them.

The crash occurred on Tuesday on GA-16 at McDonough Road. GSP said the driver of a 2017 Dodge Charger ran a red light on McDonough Road and hit a 2008 Ford Superduty pickup truck.

 

The Ford driver "was unrestrained and ejected from their pickup truck," GSP said. That person died at the scene "after EMS attempted life-saving measures."

 

GSP said a third car, a 1998 Chevrolet Tahoe, was involved when the Ford struck it after being hit. 

 

The state patrol did not say if there were any additional injuries in the wreck, or what if any charges the driver of the Dodge Charger might face. 

 

GSP said its Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT) is investigating the case.

MANCHESTER MAN KILLED

 A  MERIWETHER  COUNTY MAN  WAS  STRUCK  AND  KILLED  BY  A  TRASH  TRUCK  TUESDAY  MORNING  BEHIND  A  GROCERY  STORE  IN  BONAIRE,  GA.  THE  VICTIM,  DAVID  BRYANT  WEBB,  AGE  59  OF   MANCHESTER.  WARNER  ROBINS  POLICE  SAID  THEY  ARE  INVESTIGATING  IF  WEBB  AND  THE  DRIVER OF  THE  TRUCK  KNEW  EACH  OTHER.  INDICATIONS ARE    THEY  WERE  AROUND  THE  UNIT  TO  HOOK  UP    TO  A  TRASH   RECEPTACLE  UNIT  TO  BE  LOADED.

DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses Awarded to URMC’s Carley James McCants, LPN

Thomaston, GA, January 11, 2024 – Upson Regional Medical Center awarded Carley James McCants, LPN with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by members of the family of Patrick Barnes, a 33-year-old who died of complications related to the auto-immune disease ITP. Patrick’s family came up with the idea for the DAISY Award, as a way to recognize the extraordinary care he and the family received from his nurses throughout his illness. The acronym DAISY stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. What began as a thank you from Patrick’s family to nurses has grown into a meaningful recognition program embraced by healthcare organizations around the world.

 

Carley received multiple nominations for the DAISY Award over the past few months from both colleagues and patients. One nomination highlighted, “I was so sick when I arrived at URMC. She was so good to me, completely understanding. She showed loads of compassion and bedside manner. She catered to my every need and made me laugh when I had no joy.”

 

“Carley is a great example of a nurse who goes above and beyond for her patients each day. She is beloved by both patients and staff,” shared Upson Regional Medical Center CNO Brandie Kilcrease. “We are fortunate to have Carley as a part of our incredible team of nurses at Upson Regional.”

 

Nominations for the DAISY Award can be submitted online at urmc.org, or in person at Upson Regional Medical Center.

TPD/TFD/EMS RESPONDED TO A WRECK TUESDAY

UNITS  FROM  THOMASTON  POLICE  AND  FIRE  RESPONDED  TO   WEST  GOODRICH  AND  S.  STREET--TUESDAY  AROUND  3PM--A  TWO  VEHICLE  WRECK  THAT  LEFT  AN  OLDER  MODEL  FORD  CROWN-VIC  CRUSHED  INTO  A  UTILITY  POLE  AND A  CADILLAC  WITH  FRONT  END  DAMAGE.  THE  ELDERLY  DRIVER  OF  THE  FORD  WITH  PIKE  COUNTY  PLATES   DID  NOT  APPEAR  TO  BE INJURED  SERIOUSLY  AND  THE  DRIVER  OF  THE  CADILLAC  WAS  BEING  TREATED  BY  AMERI-PRO  EMT'S.

WIND CHILL MEANS SINGLE DIGITS OVERNIGHT TUES.

 BUNDLE  UP - INCLUDING  WIND  CHILL   THIS  PART OF  GEORGIA  COULD  FALL INTO  SINGLE DIGITS   OVERNIGHT  TUESDAY,  BUT NO  SNOW  IS  EXPECTED,  ACCORDING  TO  THE NATIONAL  WEATHER  SERVICE.

C.J. ALLEN FRESHMAN ALL AMERICAN

 ANOTHER  HONOR  FOR  LAMAR  COUNTY'S  C.J. ALLEN, LINEBACKER  FOR  THE  GA. BULLDOGS.  C.J.  HAS  BEEN  NAMED  TO  THE  NATIONAL  FOOTBALL   WRITERS  ASSOCIATION , ALL  AMERICAN  FRESHMAN  TEAM. C.J.  LEAD  THE  DAWGS   DEFENSE   IN  SOLO  TACKLES  WITH   FOUR      IN  THE  ORANGE  BOWL  WIN  OVER  FSU.

UPSON EMERGENCY SIRENS MISFIRE

 UPSON  COUNTY  EMA  DIRECTOR  RICHARD  HICKMON  SAID  THE  EMERGENCY  SIRENS  DISCHARGED  TUESDAY  MORNING   AROUND  7AM   WAS  A   MISTAKE -- THERE  WAS  NO  BAD  WEATHER.

BRIDGES OPEN IN GRIFFIN

 GRIFFIN, Ga. (January 13, 2024) – Spalding County Parks and Public Works Director, TJ Imberger opened the roadway bridges surrounding Head’s Creek Reservoir, effective January 13th. The now accessible bridges are: West McIntosh @ New Salem South New Salem on the dirt portion Vaughn @ W McIntosh West Ellis Rd between Parker Rd and Campground Rd West Ellis Rd between Quail Rd and Vaughn Rd Moon Rd between Parker and Campground Rd For any additional information or specific inquiries, please contact the Spalding County Public Works Department at 770-467-4774. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time.

PEDESTRIAN KILLED IN THOMASTON

THE  GA.  STATE PATROL    REPORTS  A  PEDESTRIAN  STRUCK  AND  KILLED  BY  A  PICK-UP  FRIDAY, JANUARY 5TH  ON  NORTH  CENTER STREET  HAD  AN  OPEN  ALCOHOL  CONTAINER  IN  HIS   HAND  BEFORE  BEING  HIT. ACCORDING  TO  GSP  TROOPER LOREN  THOMKA--52  YEAR OLD  DANNY  BOYT OF  THOMASTON  WAS  THE  VICTIM. BOYT  WAS  STRUCK  BY  THE  DRIVER  OF  A  2022  FORD  F-450  PICK-UP  DRIVEN  BY SHUN  QUILLER  , AGE  53,  OF MARCEY  DRIVE.  THE  ACCIDENT  REPORT  NOTES  BOYT  WAS  ATTEMPTING TO  CROSS  NORTH  CENTER,  WHEN  THE  QUILLER  MOTORIST  TURNED LEFT OFF  RAILROAD  STREET  TO  TRAVEL  NORTHBOUND  IN  THE LEFT LANE  AND  BOYT  TRAVELED   INTO  THE  TRUCK'S  PATH AND  WAS  STRUCK  BY  THE  FRONT  END. 

UPSON  COUNTY  CORONER  CRAIG  STUBBS  TOLD   101  NEWS, BOYT  DIED  OF  HIS  INJURIES  LATER  AT  THE  HOSPITAL  AND  THE  CORONER  DID  NOT  ORDER  AN  AUTOPSY. 

MLK DAY OBSERVANCE

 ALL  GOVERNMENT  OFFICES  AND  FINANCIAL  INSTITUTIONS  WILL BE  CLOSED MONDAY  JAN.  15  IN OBSERVANCE  OF  MLK JR. DAY.

  UPSON COUNTY  COURTHOUSE    AT   10;30AM  WREATH LAYING CEREMONY,  THEN  MARCH  TO U-L MIDDLE  SCHOOL  FOR  THE PROGRAM.  PASTOR  EDWARD   SEARCY , GUEST  SPEAKER.

IN  PIKE  COUNTY  PARADE  AT   10AM. LAMAR  COUNTY  MARCH  AT   9;30AM  AT  THE E.P.ROBERTS  CENTER  AND  MARCH  TO  THE  COURTHOUSE  FOR  THE  ANNUAL PROGRAM. FOOD  TRUCKS  AT  RITZ  PARK  11AM  TILL  7PM.

NEW HEAD FOOTBALL COACH AT BAMA

 SOURCES  HAVE  TOLD  ESPN  WASHINGTON'S    KALEN  DEBOER  HAS  AGREED  TO  BECOME  THE NEW  HEAD  FOOTBALL  COACH  AT ALABAMA.  DEBOER  LEAD  WASHINGTON  INTO  THE  PLAY-OFFS  THIS  SEASON  BEFORE  LOSING TO  MICHIGAN IN  THE  CHAMPIONSHIP   GAME.

JORDAN HILL ROAD BRIDGE CLOSED SPALDING CO

 Spalding County Parks and Public Works Director TJ Imberger Announces Emergency Closure of Jordan Hill Road Bridge for Immediate Repairs GRIFFIN, Ga. (January 09, 2024) – Spalding County Parks and Public Works Director, TJ Imberger, announced today that the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has officially confirmed the immediate closure of the bridge on Jordan Hill Road, situated between 1910 Jordan Hill Road and 2651 Jordan Hill Road, just north of Teamon Road. This closure is necessary due to structural damage incurred by the bridge during high water levels on Tuesday, January 9th. The bridge is anticipated to remain closed for a period of 4-6 weeks, allowing for comprehensive repairs in accordance with GDOT inspection standards. A designated detour route has been established for the duration of the closure. Commencing from Teamon Road, the detour directs traffic either to SR 155 or to North Pomona Road, leading to Boynton Road and subsequently connecting to Jordan Hill Road/Rocky Creek Road. For additional information or inquiries, please contact the Spalding County Public Works Department at 770-467-4774.

JACKSON HIGH EVACUATED THURS. AM

 JACKSON  HIGH  SCHOOL  IN  BUTTS  COUNTY  WAS  EVACUATED  THURSDAY  MORNING,  ACCORDING  TO  SCHOOLS  SUPERINTENDANT  BRENT LOWE.  LOWE DID  NOT  DISCLOSE  WHAT  FORCED  THE  EVACUATION,  BUT  AROUND  11AM  LAW  ENFORCEMENT  GAVE  THE  GREEN  LIGHT  TO  RETURN  TO  CLASS.  THE  CASE  IS UNDER  INVESTIGATION. 

Spalding County Sheriff & SO say's thanks.

Sgt. Marc McIntyre

On behalf of the men and women of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office, I would like to express our gratitude to all of the people, businesses, officials, and others who have reached out to us and helped us since Sgt. Marc McIntyre was killed in the line of duty.

Your kindness, compassion, and prayers have meant more to us than you’ll ever know. The steady stream of visitors, donations of food to us and Marc’s family, the pats on the back, hugs, monetary donations, words of encouragement, phone calls, text messages, emails, and most importantly the sharing of tears and laughter about Marc has been nothing short of miraculous. The words “Thank you” just aren’t enough to convey what this has meant to us.

 

It is obvious that Marc left a huge impression on our community and the best way to honor him is to remember the way he touched our lives and lived every day to its fullest, not the way he died.

 

One of my favorite quotes about sorrow over the loss of a loved one was penned by L.L. Milne, and spoken by Winnie the Pooh when he said, “How lucky we are to have had something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

 

Sheriff Darrell Dix and the employees of the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office.

STABBING IN GRIFFIN WED.

 On January 10th 2024 shortly after 1400 hours Griffin Police were called to 1569 N Expressway (Walmart) in reference to a domestic dispute. This dispute led to one party stabbing another causing serious injury. The victim was life flighted to a local area trauma center in stable condition. This is an ongoing investigation and updates will be provided as they become available. At this time the suspect who was known to the victim is in custody charged with aggravated assault. There is no current danger to the public.

DANIEL VICE-CHAIR PIKE BOC

 AT  WEDNESDAY'S  REGULAR  MEETING  THE  PIKE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  ELECTED  TIM  DANIEL  VICE-CHAIR  FOR   2024.

GRIFFIN COMMISSIONERS FACE ANGRY MINORITY CITIZENS

 THE  CITY  OF  GRIFFIN  BOARD  OF  COMMISSIONERS  WERE  CONFRONTED  WITH  SOME  ANGRY  AFRICAN-AMERICAN  CITIZENS  TUESDAY  OVER  THE  LACK OF  BLACK  DEPARTMENT  HEADS.  DURING  PUBLIC  COMMENT,  RAY    HOSFORD  TOLD  THE  BOARD   BLACKS MAKE  UP   54%  OF  THE   CITY'S  POPULATION  AND   OF  THE   11  DEPARTMENT  HEADS  IN  THE  CITY OF  GRIFFIN--NONE  ARE  MINORITY.    HOSFORD  RESORTED  TO  SCREAMING  AT  THE  COMMISSIONERS  AND  THREATENED  THAT  RIOTS   MAY  BECOME  THE  VOICE OF  THE  PEOPLE.

DR. SHONDRA JONES  INFORMED  THE  BOARD OF  COMMISSIONERS--PLANS  ARE  TO  CONTACT  THE  STATE  TO  ASK  THAT  GRIFFIN  NOT  BE  GIVEN  DIVERSITY  CERTIFICATION--AND  ADDED  CITY  HALL  DISREGARDS MINORITIES  WHEN  APPOINTING  BOARDS.

WANDA  ZELLER    SAID  SHE  DOES   NOT  UNDERSTAND  WHY   VETERAN  POLICE  OFFICER   CAPTAIN  HOMER  DANIEL  WAS  NOT  APPOINTED  AS  THE NEW  CHIEF--INTERIM  CHIEF  CONNIE  SAMPSON,  A MINORITY  WAS  APPOINTED,  RECENTLY.

IN  OTHER  ACTION  MAYOR  DOUG  HOLLBERG  APPOINTED  CYNTHIA  WARD  AS  VICE-CHAIR  FOR   2024 AND  THE  COMMISSIONERS  INCREASED  THE  BUDGET  OF  HAZEN  &  SAWYER  $520,000  FOR  THE  HEADS  CREEK  DAM  PROJECT. 

T-TOWN'S TRAVON WALKER UPPED HIS GAME THIS SEASON

 THOMASTON'S  TRAVON  WALKER  SHOWED  MORE IMPROVEMENT  THIS  SEASON  THAN  HIS  TEAM  THE  JACKSONVILLE  JAGS--WINNING  ONLY  1  OF  THE  FINAL  6  GAMES.  TRAVON  RECORDED  10  SACKS  COMPARED  WITH  3  AND A  HALF  LAST SEASON--20 SOLO  TACKLES  AND   24  ASSISTS--THIS  SEASON.

Thomaston Pedestrian Passes Away

Upson County Coroner Craig Stubbs has identified the pedestrian who was struck Friday afternoon on North Center Street, by a vehicle and died of his injuries Friday night as Danny Kenneth Boyt Jr of 115 Herbert street, Thomaston.

22 Year Old Woman Creates Chaos On The Roads

Chaos  unfolded on the roads of Butts County on Friday as a routine law enforcement operation took a dramatic turn, resulting in a crash, the theft of a patrol vehicle, and the subsequent arrest of the suspect.

The series of events began earlier in the day when Pike County issued a "be on the lookout" (BOLO) alert for a vehicle and its occupant identified as 22-year-old Destiny Mytess Daniel. Lamar County encountered a vehicle matching the BOLO description and attempted to make a stop. However, Daniel initiated a pursuit that was later discontinued by the deputy due to her reckless driving behavior.

At 11:47 a.m., Butts County Sheriff’s Office received a dispatch about a crash at the intersection of 3rd Street and McDonough Rd in Jackson. 

Upon arrival, the deputy was informed by a male witness that Daniel had left the crash scene, walked to a nearby gas station, and stolen his Chevrolet truck with an attached trailer. The stolen vehicle was reportedly heading west on Highway 16.

The deputy immediately gave chase, but Daniel refused to stop. The pursuit took a dangerous turn when the stolen vehicle collided with a Chevrolet Camaro, ejecting multiple lawnmowers and gas cans onto the roadway, subsequently striking a Hyundai and a Suburban. Despite the chaos, Daniel continued with the trailer fishtailing, eventually coming to a controlled final rest in a ditch.

As the deputy approached Daniel, who had exited the stolen vehicle and initially complied by lying face down on the ground, the situation took a bizarre turn. During the process of conducting a felony stop, Daniel suddenly refused to comply, re-entered the patrol vehicle, and fled the scene.

The deputy quickly radioed the development to additional responding units, reporting the theft of his patrol vehicle. Another deputy sighted the stolen patrol car traveling west on Highway 16 and executed a PIT (Precision Immobilization Technique) maneuver to terminate the pursuit. Despite the maneuver, Daniel exited the moving patrol vehicle, which eventually came to an uncontrolled stop on the side of the roadway.

Undeterred, Daniel then attempted to steal another vehicle from a stopped motorist but was promptly apprehended by the vigilant deputy.

PEDESTRIAN HIT BY A VEHICLE N. CENTER THOMASTON

 A  PEDESTRIAN  STRUCK  BY  A  VEHICLE  FRIDAY  AROUND  5PM  ON  NORTH  CENTER  STREET IN  THOMASTON IN  FRONT  OF  THE  DAIRY  QUEEN.  A  MALE  SUBJECT  REPORTEDLY  ATTEMPTING  TO  CROSS  THE  STREET  WAS  STRUCK  BY  WHAT  APPEARED  TO  BE  A  WHITE  FORD    F-450  4  BY  4  DUALIE   PICK-UP  AND  HE  WAS  TRANSPORTED  TO  THE  E.R.  BY  AMERI PRO  EMS.  101  NEWS   AT  THE  SCENE   WAS  TOLD  THE  VICTIM  HAD  SERIOUS INJURIES .   THE  THOMASTON  POLICE  DEPARTMENT  TURNED  THE  ACCIDENT  INVESTIGATION  OVER  TO  POST   26  GA.  STATE  PATROL. 

NEW POLICE CHIEF IN GRIFFIN

City Manager Jessica O’Connor has hired Chief Connie Sampson as Chief of Police of the Griffin, Georgia Police Department. Chief Sampson accepted the job before the new year, taking office on January 1, 2024. Chief Sampson was hired as Interim Chief in July of 2023 to fill in during the absence of Mike Yates, former Chief of Police. Yates submitted his notice for retirement in October 2023, following his administrative leave for the ongoing investigation into the handling of the 2021 murder investigation of Javarreis Reid. Chief Sampson has spent the last six months as an aid in the hiring and transitioning process of the Griffin Police Department. “I have worked in several different communities and demonstrated success by guiding and directing different groups within the community to achieve a common goal of heightened safety and security for the entire community,” said Chief Sampson back in July 2023 when she took the job as Interim Chief. “Serving the citizens of Griffin and working with the fine men and women of the Griffin Police Department was something I looked forward to when I began this process. I have now grown to love and admire the vision, mission, and values of the City of Griffin- the highest ideals of honor and integrity to merit the respect, trust, and confidence of the citizens- that I feel compelled to continue my journey to ensure those who live, work, visit, or otherwise come in contact with our City feel we are a model of excellence- a safe, well-planned community with equal opportunity for all.” Chief Sampson is a thirty-year law enforcement veteran with extensive knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations as it relates to law enforcement. She has guided and directed accreditation and certification processes in her previous employment that led to achieving the “Triple Crown of Professionalism.” In 2017, Chief Sampson retired from Georgia State University as an Associate Vice President for Critical Infrastructure, Building Security, and Safety, after beginning her career with the university as Police Chief in 1996. Chief Sampson has served in an interim capacity throughout the Southeast at Maryville College, Young Harris College, and Forsyth Tech. She is a University of Georgia graduate and holds Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice and Public Administration from Brenau University and Georgia State University. “Chief Sampson’s experience, leadership, communication skills, and dedication to training make her ideally suited to serve all the citizens of Griffin. I am confident that Chief Sampson’s vast experience and knowledge will allow us to fulfill one of the goals of the City of Griffin to improve the quality of life,” said Jessica O’Connor, City Manager when she first hired Chief Sampson as Interim Chief. Since then, the Griffin-Spalding community has experienced devasting heartbreak with multiple acts of violence that were senseless- a Griffin teenager who lost his life at the Griffin vs. Spalding football game and fallen Spalding County Deputy Sgt. Marc McIntyre, who was tragically killed last week, risking his life in the line of duty. “I watched as our police department faced these senseless acts as one, honoring our organizational principles with integrity and dedication to provide a high level of service efficiently and responsively, a direct reflection of the leadership and experience Chief Sampson has brought to the Griffin Police Department.” The Chief of Police is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Police Department and the management and direction of a workforce of 83 sworn officers and 17 civilian personnel. In 2024, the Griffin Police Department will work to engage the community, particularly the youth in our community, through relationship building with the department to reduce violent crime in the City of Griffin and protect and serve our citizens with the leadership and support of Chief Sampson. “Neither of us, Chief Sampson or myself, felt our short-term partnership that started in July of 2023 would lead to this. However, I am pleased she accepted the opportunity to stay and continue contributing to the ongoing efforts in shaping the Griffin Police Department.” In partnership with our community, the mission of the City of Griffin is to protect and enhance the quality of life by providing a high level of service in an efficient and responsive manner for all citizens.

UPSON COUNTY TAX COMMISSIONER YEAR END REPORT

Tax Revenue Distributions Countywide (County, School, City of Thomaston)

Includes Property Tax, TAVT (Title Ad-Valorem Tax), and Tag Revenue.

2019 Gross Tax Digest = 715,625,78 - Current Collection %--99.7

Property Tax = $18,263,567 (County-$8,370,542; School-$$8,067,515; City-$1,825,510)

TAVT = $2,248,471 (County-$1,045,956; School-$1,020,761; City-$181,754)

 Tag= $467,098 (County-$270,427; School-$175,422; City-$21,229)

 Total= $20,979,136 (County-$9,686,925; School-$9,263,718; City-$2,028,493)

County Millage= 30.66                 City Millage= 31.78

 

2020 Gross Tax Digest = 757,106,315 - Current Collection %--99.8

Property Tax = $20,236,489 (County-$9,154,190; School-$9,147,356; City-$1,934,943)

 TAVT= $2,468,322 (County-$1,098,607; School-$1,205,638; City-$164,077)

 Tag= $448,335 (County-$265,692; School-$164-253; City-$18,390)

 Total=$23,153,146 (County-$10,518,489; School-$10,517,247; City-$2,117,410)  

County Millage= 28.21                 City Millage= 30.462

 

2021 Gross Tax Digest = 811,908,465 - Current Collection %--99.9

Property Tax = $19,157,028 (County-$8,487,183; School-$8,972,031; City-$1,697,814)

TAVT= $3,018,772 (County-$1,232,260; School-$1,470,521; City-$315,991)

 Tag = $409,031 (County-$245,929; School-$148,122; City-$14,980)

 Total=$22,584,831 (County-$9,965,372; School-$10,590,674; City-$2,028,785)

County Millage= 26.35                 City Millage= 28.51

 

2022 Gross Tax Digest = 892,075,842 - Current Collection %--99.9

Property Tax = $20,264,340 (County-$8,810,648; School-$9,830,401; City-$1,623,291)

 TAVT= $2,890,036 (County-$1,245,054; School-$1,416,589; City-$228,393)

 Tag= $393,655   (County-$233,499; School-$146,536; City-$13,620)

 Total=$23,548,031 (County-$10,289,201; School-$11,393,526; City-$1,865,304

County Millage= 27.73                 City Millage= 27.816

 

2023 Gross Tax Digest = 1,092,251,387 - Current Collection %--92.4

Property Tax = $24,692,339 (County-$8,761,059; School-$14,172,180; City-$1,759,100)

TAVT= $3,221,124 (County-$1,398,373; School-$1,576,424; City-$246,327

Tag= $438,043 (County-$265,258; School-$166,261; City-$6,524)

Total$28,351,506 (County-$10,424,690; School-$15,914,865; City-$2,011,951)

County Millage= 25.92                    City Millage= 26.192

NEW DEGREE PROGRAM GORDON STATE

 BARNESVILLE, Ga., (Jan. 4, 2024) –Gordon State College is starting the new year with the launch of a new degree program, the Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership eMajor.

“The organizational leadership degree will give students from any background an opportunity to focus on developing their leadership skills and abilities to advance to management positions and beyond,” said Dr. Ric Calhoun, GSC AVP of innovative education and strategic initiatives. “The degree has a lot of flexibility with students having the choice of concentrations in health care, public administration, office administration and social justice. We hope this degree will help students from many different disciplines advance in their careers.”

Students enrolled in the organizational leadership program gain knowledge in areas such as management, administration, human resources, and technology, which are essential for navigating the intricacies of modern-day organizations across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The ORGL e-Major degree has successfully paved the way for graduates to secure jobs in diverse sectors, such as training and development, higher education administration, as well as inside and outside sales.

The ORGL e-Major program offers a convenient and efficient route to earning a bachelor's degree, making it an ideal choice for individuals looking to expedite their educational journey. This program is well-suited for working professionals, military personnel, and current students who wish to explore an alternative pathway. Tuition is only $199 per credit hour and is the same for students regardless of residency.

SACSCOC-accredited institutions of the University System of Georgia (USG) offer fully online, eMajor degrees with support from USG eCampus. The 8-week accelerated format enables students to progress through the program quicker than on a traditional semester schedule. These programs combine the strengths and knowledge of various USG institutions to provide degrees that equip students for the job market in Georgia and beyond.

For more information on GSC’s Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership program and how to apply, contact Dr. Calhoun at Ricc@gordonstate.edu or visit emajor.usg.edu/ORGL.

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR SLAIN SPALDING DEPUTY

 UPSON  SO,  THOMASTON PD  AND  LAW ENFORCEMENT  UNITS  FROM  PIKE, LAMAR  AND  FROM  ALL  OVER  THE  STATE  WILL  DEPART  ATLANTA  MOTOR  SPEEDWAY    FRIDAY   AT  11;30AM     AS  THE  LAW  ENFORCEMENT  PROCESSIONAL MAKES ITS  WAY  TO THE  ONE  O'CLOCK  MEMORIAL  SERVICE  FOR  SLAIN  SPALDING  COUNTY  DEPUTY  SGT.  MARC  MCINTYRE  AT  GRIFFIN  FIRST  ASSEMBLY  OF  GOD  CHURCH  ON  WEST  MCINTOSH  ROAD  IN  GRIFFIN. VISITATION  PRIOR  TO  THE  SERVICE  AT  THE  CHURCH.

GOVERNOR  BRIAN KEMP  HAS  ORDERED  ALL  FLAGS   IN  THE  STATE   TO FLY  AT  HALF-MAST    TO   HONOR   SGT. MCINTYRE.  DONATIONS  TO  HONOR  THE  DEPUTY  ARE  BEING  ACCEPTED  AT  ANY  UNITED  BANK  BRANCH.

Thomaston City Council Appointments

The City of Thomaston proudly announces the appointment of Lieutenant Foster as the new Fire Chief of the Thomaston Fire Department. This pivotal decision was unanimously confirmed by the City Council on January 2, 2024, reflecting the city's confidence in Chief Foster's capabilities, dedication, and vision for the future of fire and emergency services within our community.

Chief Foster, a stalwart member of the Thomaston Fire Department for the past 15 years, has exemplified unwavering commitment, leadership, and expertise throughout his tenure. His experience, coupled with a deep-rooted passion for public safety and community welfare, uniquely positions him to lead the department into its next chapter of excellence.

The official transition will take place on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, following the retirement of Chief Harris, a revered figure who has dutifully served the Thomaston community for 39 years. As Chief Foster assumes his new role, the City of Thomaston expresses profound gratitude to Chief Harris for her invaluable contributions, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of Thomaston's residents.

In his new capacity, Chief Foster is poised to build upon the department's legacy of exceptional service, innovation, and community engagement. His strategic vision encompasses enhancing training programs, fostering collaborative partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to optimize emergency response capabilities.

 "I am deeply honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as the Fire Chief of the Thomaston Fire Department," said Chief Foster. "I am committed to upholding our department's esteemed traditions while fostering innovation, resilience, and community trust. Together, with the dedicated men and women of the Thomaston Fire Department, we will continue to prioritize public safety, enhance emergency preparedness, and strengthen our community relationships."

Mayor Stallings stated, "Chief Foster's promotion is a testament to his exemplary service, leadership qualities, and unwavering dedication to the Thomaston community. We are confident that under his stewardship, the Thomaston Fire Department will continue to thrive, innovate, and provide unparalleled service to our residents."

The City of Thomaston invites community members, stakeholders, and media representatives to join us in congratulating Chief Foster on his well-deserved appointment.

Together, let us usher in a new era of leadership, innovation, and excellence as we continue to prioritize the safety, resilience, and prosperity of the City of Thomaston.

And, Thomaston Has a new Assistant City Managers.

TRAFFIC FATALITY PIKE CO

 PIKE  COUNTY SHERIFF'S  OFFICE  INVESTIGATED  A   TRAFFIC  ACCIDENT  AT  PIKE  PLAZA  U.S. 19  NEW  YEAR'S  DAY  WITH  A  FATALITY.   ACCORDING  TO  PIKE  COUNTY  TIMES  .  COM   THE  SO  SAID     A  SUSPECTED  DUI  DRIVER   56-YEAR  OLD  RONALD EARL  ARD  RAN  A  STOP  SIGN  ATTEMPTING  TO  ENTER  THE   4-LANE   AT  4;48PM   AND    COLLIDED  WITH  A  SOUTHBOUND   VAN--AND  A  VAN   PASSENGER  47  YEAR  OLD  BRENT  JONES  DIED  OF  HIS  INJURIES.

ARD  WAS  DRIVING A  2020  FORD  RANGER  AND  CAUSED  THE  ACCIDENT  WITH  A  2005 CHRYSLER  TOWN  AND  COUNTRY  VAN--DEPUTIES  SAID.

BOND  FOR  ARD  WAS  SET  AT   $102,000  ON  CHARGES  OF    VEHICULAR HOMICIDE, SERIOUS  INJURY  BY  VEHICLE  ,  FAILURE  TO  YIELD,   AND  DUI. 

THOMASTON COUNCIL APPROVES APARTMENTS

 ON   A   3-2  VOTE,  TUESDAY,  THE  THOMASTON CITY  COUNCIL  VOTED  TO  ANNEX  PROPERTY INTO  THE  CITY  FOR  AN  APARTMENT  DEVELOPMENT  ON  74  EAST.  COUNCIL  MEMBERS  DON  GREATHOUSE  AND  RYAN  TUCKER, OPPOSED.

AN  ANNEXATION  FOR  TWO  OTHER  TRACTS ALSO  APPROVED.  TOWN  HOMES  IN  NORTHSIDE  AND  A  PARCEL  FOR A  NEW  ALDI  FOOD  STORE  NEAR  CHICK-FIL-A.

COUNCIL  ASKED  TO  CONSIDER  A  PROPOSAL  TO  BUILD  NEW  TENNIS  COURTS  AT  WEAVER PARK  AND  REPURPOSE  ALL  COURTS  AT  SILVERTOWN  FOR  PICKLEBALL.

SHANE  FOSTER  APPOINTED  NEW  FIRE  CHIEF  AND  CFO  LONNIE JOYCE  NAMED  TO  THE  NEWLY  CREATED  POST OF  ASSISTANT  CITY  MANAGER.

GBI Arrests Manchester Man in Murder Investigation

The GBI has arrested and charged A’darius Jashawn Williams, age 19, of Manchester, Meriwether County, Georgia with murder. On December 10, 2023, the Manchester Police Department asked the GBI to investigate the shooting death of Manchester High School student Brandon Smith, age 17. 

The investigation shows that Smith was last seen on Thursday, December 7, 2023, and was reported missing two days later.  On Sunday, December 10, 2023, a 911 caller reported a dead body behind a home on 3rd Avenue, Manchester, Georgia.  The body was determined to be Smith and police suspected foul play.  During the course of the investigation, it was determined that Williams shot and killed Smith following an argument in Manchester, Georgia.  Williams was booked into the Meriwether County Jail. 

 

This investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the regional investigative office in Columbus Field Office at 706-565-7888.  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. 

 

Once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Meriwether County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.